Lowrance G3 Broadband Radar Opinions/Feedback

[CougarMtn]

The subject of NMEA-2000 network systems came up in an earlier thread on fuel sensors.

Garmin and Raymarine seem to have a large following here, but I came across some info on the fairly new Lowrance Broadband radar. Specs show it to have a low power draw, and be much safer than the magnatron based systems. Plug and play with the popular HDS chartplotters, and it's all NMEA-2000 compatable.

I've had Lowrance systems in my last 2 boats, but have no experience with radar. The only negative about Lowrance for me, was the cheap plastic connectors on the cabling, prone to damage when removing. The graphics and software seemed to work well.

My current chartplotter is a Garmin 2006c, but is not NMEA-2000 compatable, and chart availability is becoming more of an issue. So an upgrade is on the horizon. Any thoughts?

[berryst]

I don't know if you have updated yet but I have the g3 radar installed on a tower on the boat. I have not completed the final connections...NEMA2000 still daunting but I am still hopefull. Trying to wire to the steering consul for the new autopilot and I found that 2 of the 3 bolts had broken off by the prior "mechanic" so only one bolt held the steering together. Yikes! Tried to drill and tap the bolts without success so a new set up will have to be installed. The G3 will have to sit till its all done. May have to upgrade our Lcx-111c high def 10" Lowrance....yes, I am have headaches but that is to be expected
Chhris