Chart Plotters

[Ocean_Driver]

I have been given a Garmin GPS180 chart plotter complete with external dome antenna and an internal "Bluechart" chip.
Whilst the system fires up ok, in monochrome, the chart chip itself is dated July 82, and is a pre C-Map and Navionics. It comes up in the machine as not recognised.
Is it worth me even bothering with? After all, the chart info is not vital for coastal cruising, but it does give me good position fixing and waypoint directional info etc.
If I could get a chip update for it, I would, but is it worth it?

 

[Tugw]

I can only give a personal view,If i have any equipment or Gadget on the boat then it has to work and be usefull or i throw it away i dont see any reason for having stuff if it doesnt actually do anything (exept SWMBO /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif).if it was me id get rid or update.

 

[nonitoo]

Either update it or dump it.

The problem with using outdated data is that it is being presented to you as gospel and, whether you like it or not, you might just use it to your disadvantage.

Tom

 

[epervier]

with due respect, have you thought why you were "given" said plotter?

throw it in the bin, new ones arn't all that expensive, unless you're thinking on the lines of a garmin gpsmap 5015 /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[omega2]

This may help, but as already stated if it does not then it's a likely bin job, the antenna may of use to someone however.
Installing <Sr Removing Micro G-chart Cartridges
The GARMIN GPSMAP 185 Sounder system uses Micro G-chart offshore or inland cartography to display digital charts on-screen. Micro G-chart cartridges are installed in the card slot located at the bottom right of the GPSMAP 185 Sounder unit. Micro G-chart cartridges may be installed or removed at any time, whether the unit is on or off.
To install a Micro G-chart cartridge:
1. Open the cartridge door.
2. Insert the card (label facing front) into the slot.
3. Use your thumb to firmly push the cartridge into place (until the cartridge will not go any
further into the unit). If your GPSMAP 185 Sounder is on, a confirmation tone will sound
when the cartridge has been properly installed and accepted.
4. Close the cover.

If you insert a Micro G-chart cartridge and get a 'card format not recognized' message, try removing the card and reinserting it. If the card is still not recognized, contact the dealer you purchased it from for assistance. Micro G-chart cartridges are not waterproof, should not be exposed to moisture or excessive static charges, and should be stored in the anti-static bag supplied with the cartridge.
To remove a Micro G-chart cartridge:
1. Open the cartridge door.
2. Grasp the card by the bottom, extend the handle and pull firmly.
3. If your GPSMAP 185 Sounder is on, a confirmation tone will sound when the Micro G-
chart cartridge has been removed.

 

[DAKA]

Just put your waypoints in , always best to make waypoints from paper charts anyway.
Your waypoints will be displayed on screen and you have a perfectly usable bit of kit.

In an ideal world it would be nice to install £3000 worth of new kit but why not wait 10 years before you upgrade and get that free as well /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif


15 years ago your free bit of kit was the bees knees, Decca was the norm then, you had to tell it where you were /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

 

[omega2]

[ QUOTE ]
Just put your waypoints in , always best to make waypoints from paper charts anyway.
Your waypoints will be displayed on screen and you have a perfectly usable bit of kit.

In an ideal world it would be nice to install £3000 worth of new kit but why not wait 10 years before you upgrade and get that free as well /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif


15 years ago your free bit of kit was the bees knees, Decca was the norm then, you had to tell it where you were /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

I make you right Daka, I too hate throwing things away.