Looking for a new gps/chartplotter recommend

colbysmith · Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2015 9:47 am Post subject:

Regarding the use of Auto-Guidance. I agree with Bob. It doesn't remove the necessity of navigating safely. I consider it a "tool". In aviation we are taught to use everything to our advantage. But don't allow that advantage to leave us out of the loop. Colby

journey on · Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2015 1:44 pm Post subject:

Lowrance had an auto-route feature on it's latest software update. It's only available when you're not in North America. When I asked the reps, they didn't really know but guessed liability.

Nothing against auto-routing, but it's not a feature I would really want. My trips aren't that long. And I'm not sure what the difference is between auto-guidance and auto-routing. In my world, routing plots a course form some waypoint and guidance steers that course. Does Garmin Auto Guide also steer?

Boris

RobLL · Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2015 2:55 pm Post subject:

My 2014 dated Lowrance (radar, chart plotter, heading, and display) is hooked up to a hub. I am told that the autopilot is near plug and play, with perhaps 4 hours of installation.

colbysmith · Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2015 3:13 pm Post subject:

Same thing I think Boris. Altho I am looking at autopilots. Right now the Ray Marine EV-100 seems like the best bet for me. The Garmin G10 might be nice, but RM is cheaper. And supposedly I can hook it up to my Garmin GPSMAP. I like to make my own routes. But since I had a vision chip I tried the autoguidance last summer, and it saves some time. But as Bob said, you still have to be cognizant of where it's taking you! Colby

thataway · Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2015 8:17 pm Post subject:

Yes, The garmin sysem will interphase with the auto pilot and do the whoole job....Just don't go and take a nap, or other play up forward!

thataway · Posted: Sat Jan 31, 2015 8:47 pm Post subject:

Despite my love for Garmin, I would currently wait a few months, and look very seriously at the latest Lowrance Gen 3. Some very interesting features, plus the new "outboard pilot" is only $999. (Hydraulic steering) and uses the Simrad/Robertson techology--but a cheaper (good size displacement pump) Also inclues the point one compass. For not too many bucks, you would have the chart pllotter/4G radar, and a good pilot (The pilot and latest Gen 3 are still in the "to be shipped" phase...

One of my issues with Lowrance was service--that seems to have improved.