Chartplotter Installation on a Centaur

[wjmarks]

I have just bought a Northstar 657 chartplotter and I am having the problem that most people probably encounter - where to fit/mount the thing.

I want to be able to see it when I am at the helm and also want to be able to adjust it's angle of dangle depending on the sun(if we ever get any). I have ruled out a flush mounting on the bulkhead as it already has wind/speed/depth/compass etc and once it is on there there would be no adjustment at all.

I was thinking about some sort of swinging arm from the inside so as it would sit over and peek out from the companionway but am unsure on how you could do this and also keep it from swinging back in and prevent it from getting in the way.

Anyway - I am open to all suggestions as I am sure there will be a few.

Thanks in advance

James

 

[ianfr]

Hi

I used a flat screen TV arm from Tesco's (other supermarkets are available). The Plotter is mounted on a ply panel, fixed to the arm. I can use the plotter in the cockpit and below at all sorts of angles.

The only issue I have is that the friction mounts need tightening up fairly often.

Modification will be to replace the allen bolts and replace with wing bolts of some kind.

Regards

Ian

 

[rob2]

It used to be the norm to mount the depth sounder on a swinging board for use at the chart table and the cockpit. Hinges alongside the companionway and drop hook on the other side to hold it in place. My boat had a Decca on a board with two brass pins in the base which locate'drop into a bracket either inside the cabin or another bracket on the bulkhead for cockpit use. Of course, that means the leads have to be a little long and you can't leave it in the cockpit and fit the washboards in inclement weather.

Rob.

 

[V1701]

Similar to Rob, I have it on a board that swings out by the companionway. Little screw in hooks and springs hold it in place either out or back inside. I wouldn't worry about angling it to allow for the sun - playing around with the brightness settings should be sufficient, I've never not been able to see mine (which is a Standard Horizon CP 180i) anyway. I haven't got any pics I'm afraid...

 

[doug748]

Anyway - I am open to all suggestions as I am sure there will be a few.

Thanks in advance

James

I am not the No 1 fan of brackets that swing out from the companion, I or the crew, always seem to boot, or otherwise abuse them, in passing.

I put mine over the top, where posh boats have their instrument pods. There is reasonable protection form the sprayhood there and the shade helps in reading the screen in bright conditions. It is also well out of the way and can be seen pretty well on a small, tiller operated, boat.