5/6 inch chartplotter

[jwilson]

I am looking at getting a small (5" screen size approx) chartplotter with integral GPS, to put at the helm. I already have a Raymarine C65 at the chart table, but this is not able to feed a repeater display, and anyway a separate system gives a backup. I'd get another chart cartridge for the new one.

By moving around existing instrument displays I can fit a 5" or 6" unit at the helm console, but not a bigger one.

Any comments on the following:

Lowrance 3600 - I looked at a demo unit and the display is excellent, takes C-map or their own chart cartridges, but I have heard of problems with waterproofing of the cartridge slot cover. 1 year warranty

Cobra - takes C-Map cartridges. Looks OK but I have a Cobra H/H radio that went wrong after six months (changed under warranty) so am a bit dubious. 1 year warranty on chartplotter

Standard Horizon CP180i - takes C-Map cartridges. 3 year warranty attractive.

Any experience of any of these, or suggestions for alternative?

 

[Talbot]

Navman 5600 (or 5500) comes with integral aerial or as seperate unit, and it is waterproof. the 5605 and 5505 both have been updated to take the Max.

I like the user interface on it.

 

[pvb]

I'd strongly suggest you look at getting a second unit which uses the same mapping software and operating system as your existing plotter. You say you have a C65; not sure whether you mean a C70 or an A65, but they both run Navionics Gold. Ideally, I'd get another identical unit if you can find a way of fitting it in at the helm. The big benefit is that both units will work in exactly the same way, and the charts will look exactly the same on the screen. You'd also have some redundancy in the event of a chart cartridge getting corrupted. And you can simply feed the GPS signal from the existing unit.

If you can't fit an identical unit at the helm due to space limitations, consider mounting one under the sprayhood. I have my C-series under the sprayhood, and find it's a very useful location (especially in really wet weather when I tend to use the autopilot and sit in the shelter of the hood). The benefit of identical operating systems is a big plus.

Finally, if you can't fit an identical unit in at the helm, but still want the plotter at the helm, then the next best thing would be to get a plotter which also uses Navionics Gold charts. Benefit is the chart will look the same; downside is you'll need to learn another operating system. Other makes which use Navionics Gold are Lowrance (despite what you think they don't use C-Map) and Geonav. The Lowrance 3600 has a far better screen than the similarly sized Geonav 6 (480x480 vs 240x320 - 3 times more pixels), is a little bit smaller, and is a lot cheaper. Unfortunately, it also uses a different cartridge format (MMC/SD rather than the CF used by Raymarine). The Geonav 6 does use the CF format, though.

Don't underestimate the potential problems of having 2 plotters with different operating systems. When you're cold, wet and tired, being able to work either plotter instinctively will be a major advantage.

 

[jwilson]

Thanks for the comments. My Raymarine is a C70 - slip of the typing finger. I don't actually much like the Raymarine interface and I'm sure the screen isn't really bright enough for sunlight viewing, so was looking at others. Also, cost is a factor and another C70 is a lot more than the other units on the market.

I agree that using the same Navionics chart cartridges is a good idea.

 

[pvb]

Just edited my post, re cartridge formats.

 

[pvb]

Why not sell it?

If you don't like the C70, and if you don't plan to add a radar scanner, why not sell it? Should be worth £500 or so. Then buy 2 identical/similar units (ie Lowrance 3500/3600).

 

[Sui Generis]

I've a Lowrance 3500, but under the sprayhood, where I can still see it, but so can't comment on waterproofing. It uses Navionics (or their own, I prefer the Navionics). I'm very pleased with it and I use it as a stand alone system, with the display alongside that of the radar.
I also have another GPS, plus paper charts etc below (and a PC).

Try a thread search cos earlier this year several forumites were going through the same decisions as you are now.

 

[Richard10002]

I use the Lowrance 3600i, (integral aerial), mounted over the binnacle at the wheel.

The display is excellent and the specs say it is waterproof. Given some of the torrential rain it's been out in, I'd say it is waterproof.

It's relatively cheap, easily removed, and can be attached down below if you buy a second power cable and bracket, (although the aerial may not get a signal).

The Nauticpath chart which can be had bundled with the unit is OK, but I'm sure it wont be as good as a Navionics equivalent.

I also use a laptop strapped to the saloon table for longer trips, and this uses SOB with a C-Map Max cartridge.... the C-Map detail is much better than the Nauticpath in some places.

I was very dubious about a 5" screen, having used a 7" Raymarine prior to buying the boat... but the resolution is such that the Lowrance screen is incredibly clear.

In your position I wouldnt hesitate to get a 3600i, although I would probably be seriously considering the Standard horizon as well, particularly as I think would take my C-Map max cartridge.

 

[Channel Ribs]

My old favourite is Garmin's 172C (either internal or external antenna) but if you have a bigger budget and want something versatile then their 276C is a corker. Both have very good screens.

 

[LadyInBed]

I bought a Standard Horizon CP180i at SIBS.
Very intuitive, and the 'Joy stick' is a pleasure (ok I could have said joy) to manipulate

 

[Sans Bateau]

John

Just also consider that whilst Raymarine and Lowrance both use Navonics, Raymarine charts come on CF format whilst, Lowrance use MMC/SD cards, you would not be able to switch charts from one plotter to another. How about the Raymarine 435?

 

[Aja]

5/16" not a bit small?

Donald