Budget Chart Plotter/sounder

[Mike Fox]

The advantages from the effective use of better electronics is getting hard to resist. My fixed Garmin GPS gives lovely lat/longs but it takes time to pop them onto the chart etc. We saw a load of equipment at the last club meeting, as presented by Greenham Regis (thanks chaps!) which was very interesting, and has spurred me into making some comparisons.

 

I can pick up a Lowrance 5150C with integral chart of English Channel etc for under

[AlderneyBassman]

The standard horizon was voted 'best buy' in a group test in Practical Boat Owner mag.

 

3 year warranty too.

 

I havent got one but thought I'd mention it!

[TomBettle]

Mike

 

I am by no means suggesting you need to spend

Edited May 8, 2007 by TomBettle

[bootlegger]

We picked up a Standard Horizon Colour chartplotter complete with the cartridge for the South Coast, Channel and Northern France all for under

[plaicemat]

Mike, I don't know if it helps but, by a round about route (legal) I can supply a new Lowrance 3500C for about

[Mike Fox]

Hi Terry - thanks for the offer, but I had discounted this model from my short list.

 

Mike

[toerag]

As I said on the other thread - the Garmin 20xx series are cheaper now the 30xx series is out. I have a 2006 and it is excellent - it lives in the cabin, but copes with wet fingers with no trouble. Ease of use is great, and the charting is good. Watch out for the greyscale in shallow water - it's easy to get drying areas mixed up with shallow ones.

[Mike Fox]

Well, we did it. Splashed out on a box of tricks that promises a lot, and at more than my original budget. Spent a few hours at the Marine Super Store in Port Solent during the rain on Monday, with a knowledgeable assistant showing me the various models on display/demo

 

We bought the Gapmin GPSmap 550s.

 

Reasons for purchase:

- Internet searches on models, specifications and prices suggested it was worth a good look;

- Integral detailed charts for whole of UK, Ireland and N. coast of France. No more needed.

- Large, incredibly clear screen with superb resolution - worth the extra over the 450 in my opinion, but it was a close call this one;

- Integral twin frequency fish finder/sonar (bought the transducer too);

- Simple, straightforward menu system;

- I already have depth sounder and fixed GPS at the chart table (plus handheld for the grab bag), so a combined unit isn't a problem, and in fact, space at the wheel is tight, so it's actually better.

 

All I have to do now is get a lump of pasticene for the transducer, drill a few holes in strategic locations, and do a bit of wiring.

 

Why am I dreading this bit?

 

Mike

 

 

[Paul D]

That looks a nice bit of kit Mike - the sceptical side of me though "pre-loaded must mean poor charts " - but nope, it is pre-loaded with bluecharts for the whole of the UK.

 

I must get to have a look at yours when it is plumbed in.

 

Tempting

[great white]

I have a recent Motor Boat magazine with a survey/report of these small plotters

 

To late to help Mike but if others are interested I could scan it and email accross

 

I would not like to upset anyone by adding it to a forum

 

 

From Memory Mike I think that the set you selected scored well

 

Charlie

 

[Coddy]

I have a recent Motor Boat magazine with a survey/report of these small plotters

 

To late to help Mike but if others are interested I could scan it and email accross

 

Charlie

Hi Charlie,

 

Could you please send me a copy so I can add it to my web site.

 

Thanks

 

Coddy