Simple chart plotter

B

bromleybysea

Well-Known Member
Joined
10 Nov 2007
Messages
677
Location
Not Bromley anymore, yippee!!
Visit site
I would like to replace my ancient Lowrance chart plotter with a new one with a bigger screen that I can actually see from more than 3 feet away, and be able to overlay AIS information which I have available on a PC below. I have a simple NMEA 0183 system which integrates my plotters and Tacktick instruments and AIS receiver. I use Navionics charts. I’m working to a tight budget. Looking at entry-level Lowrance plotters now they seen to be exclusively for the fish-bothering brigade and I certainly don’t want fish finders, sonar etc. Would I be best advised looking at second-had Raymarine kit or is there anything out there that might fit the bill?
 
A 10 inch tablet with GPS (secondhand if budget is really tight) and Navionics boating app. Job done for minimal outlay.

Secondhand Raymarine kit might be fine. I was unlucky; the plotter I bought was faulty, sent it to professional repairers and it still didn't work properly. Waste of money.
 
AFAIK the only chart plotter that has 0183 is the Garmin Echomap series which I have just bought for that very reason. I am using the 0183 to import AIS from a Quark receiver, which will also give a wi fi signal to a tablet with Navionics. The Garmin will also link by wi fi and the Active Captain app, but only as a repeater. I am not sure you will be able to import your instruments as there is only one 0183 port.

So I am not sure what you want is achievable - and the Garmin is not cheap at £750 for the 7" and £900 for 9", although that does include the chart.
 
I have the 75 version of that - big step up from the 65 in ease of handling and viewing as you would expect for another £200.
 
Although Lowrence target the North American fishing market I’ve had 3 over the last 8 years, currently 7” HDS gen 3, I like the way they operate. I’ve only changed to upgrade and easily sold on old unit to partly fund. Don’t get hung up of the many options you may not want as you don’t have to use them
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Share this page

Top