which plotter?

nik · 17 July 2007, 20:46

Hi all,
I need a new plotter, and have more or less settled on a garmin 550, or 555.
The 550 has a qvga screen, and the 555 has a screen of the same size, but it is vga, (better resolution).

Has anyone out there used these devices? Is it worth the extra money for the better display?

I could wait for the boat show and have a look at them there, but I really need it sooner.

Thanks, nick.

genoa · 18 July 2007, 12:03

Better resolution is definitely a plus. You can have labels that are readable and still see the water!
My only concern is that 5" always seems very small.

nik · 18 July 2007, 17:27

Quote:

My only concern is that 5" always seems very small.

I know, but they dont seem to get larger unless they get really big.

Garmin is the only make I am familiar with, maybe I should look at other makes.

Nick.

Channel Ribs · 18 July 2007, 20:20

Whatever you decide, give me a shout and I will see if I can get you a corker of a price.

The Garmin is nice, but in my view the lower resolution Standard Horizon screen on the CP-180i is brighter. The handling of NMEA is also better. Oh aye, they are cheap as chips too.

If you fancy something flash then the CP-300i is very nice indeed.

Mind you, the Garmin range does have the option of integrating sonar and that makes for a very tidy and good value package. Nice chart data too.

tim griffin · 19 July 2007, 08:28

Happy with my CP 18O very simple to use resolution is great and the customer service /support from Standard Horizon is excellent.
Don't see the need for a big screen for the navigator as mostly use rolling road set up when doing electronic nav exercises and use a different page for each leg to see the difference .

nik · 19 July 2007, 14:21

Hi malthouse,
I wont be able to read yor pm for a couple of days, (logging in problems)

Nick

Nick Thomas · 19 July 2007, 15:31

I don't know what your eye sight is like, but if like me, your arms are a bit too short to read news print properly, I would go for the largest display that, either, you can afford, or will fit on your boat. There's nothing worse (or frustrating) than floundering around trying to put glasses on, whilst bouncing around in a F6, so you can squint vainfully through salt encrusted lenses at a screen that still remains just too fuzzy/small to see clearly!

Available map software for your intended area of use is also worth finding out about. I have a Lowrance LCX 110C, which has a massive (11.5") display, and uses Navionics Gold or Platinum electronic charts, which I find, very good.

I'm very happy with my set up.

Roy Smith · 20 July 2007, 00:34

I have an E80 Ray marine but given the choice again i would go for a Garmin
And yes get the largest screen you can afford, its not till you see it will you understand what a difference a big screen makes.

codprawn · 20 July 2007, 00:43

I have the Raymarine C80 and looking at Garmin charts I would go for - the Raymarine!!! I love Garmin gear but my Raymarine has been excellent!!!

IBWET · 20 July 2007, 00:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by nik

Hi all,
I need a new plotter, and have more or less settled on a garmin 550, or 555.
The 550 has a qvga screen, and the 555 has a screen of the same size, but it is vga, (better resolution).

Has anyone out there used these devices? Is it worth the extra money for the better display?

I could wait for the boat show and have a look at them there, but I really need it sooner.

Thanks, nick.

Have a look at Raymarine's A65 I don't know if you've got a depth sounder, if not this unit has a digital one (as an add on)

I can use it so anyone can, charts are relatively cheap. I've had one for 9 months now and still think it was the right choice.

genoa · 20 July 2007, 10:38

Navman do some nice 7" displays that are a good 1/2 way to the Raymarine C/E80. I had the later on the rag and stick machine (yacht) and it was beautiful (if you have the space). With a more limited console, rather than nav station, the combined Navman 6600 is a good compromise (800x480pixels) with excellent resolution.

cuzza · 23 July 2007, 22:19

Has anyone seen the new Garmin 4008? I had a quick look at my mates at the weekend, it has to be one of the best looking units around. Their charts have moved on aswell, spangly features like putting your depth in and changing the colours of the water in 3D mood to show you if you are heading somewhere you shouldn't.

I want one!

Bhives · 27 July 2007, 15:40

I have the Navman 6600 with UK Megawide CMax chart - can't see past it for charts and added info plus Smartcraft interface is brilliant. Haven't had any of the problems posted elsewhere

genoa · 01 August 2007, 14:50

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bhives

plus Smartcraft interface is brilliant.

No problems, but I am interested in the Smartcraft interface. I have a Merc Opti 150 with 2 multifunction dials on the console. Have thought about interface to the Navman. what do I need (vs what will they try and sell me) to do the job? Is it an easy wiring job? Do you have the Navman wired for ignition on only?

Bhives · 02 August 2007, 14:10

Wiring is easy, purchase the Smartcraft interface kit (Plastimo catalogue) with a 4 way Navbus connector. If you PM your details I'll send a drawing which shows my setup with Smartcraft gauges and additional fuel tank sender hookup. You need to make sure your throttle has a smartcraft connector. I also changed the analogue trim sender to a digital one (£80) to allow the trim popup screen on the 6600 to work without installing another gauge. Did not wire for power up with engine as engine hours are only logged when engine on and I do not go anywhere without it on.