Chart Plotter/GPS/Sounder

[wisdompw]

Has anyone ever heard of using a laptop computer as chartplotter/GPS/Sounder? Is there such thing out there? Or even using a flat screen monitor that can plug into a GPS/Fish finder?

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: Chart Plotter/GPS/Sounder

I don't know about your boat, but on either one of mine a laptop would be in the way big time. I'm more than happy with my Humminbird, does all of the above and wasn't too terribly expensive.

 

[iBrent]

Re: Chart Plotter/GPS/Sounder

Has anyone ever heard of using a laptop computer as chartplotter/GPS/Sounder? Is there such thing out there? Or even using a flat screen monitor that can plug into a GPS/Fish finder?

I had thought about integrating a Mac Mini with a solid state drive and use a USB GPS antenna for a chart plotter. Then once I started assessing the cost of all of that plus a touchscreen the garmin I ended up buying was much more attractive.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Chart Plotter/GPS/Sounder

2 problems on a small boat: battery life, and water proof. Works great on a 45' cruiser; not so good on a bass boat

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Chart Plotter/GPS/Sounder

There are a few compaines that sell GPS/chartplotter software for laptops. They require a USB antenna, but it's only another $10-$15.

I have one as a back up and it seems to function pretty well, although I don't think I would use it as primary navigation. Just Google it and there are quite a few companies that have them. I think even Garmin has developed one.

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Chart Plotter/GPS/Sounder

http://www.boatersworld.com/product...igps-chartplotter;cimounted-gps-chartplotters

You can add the black box depth sounder and a 12v lcd (don't need touch screen) to this and be big pimpin yo LOL

that's my plan anyhow

heck you can even add radar to it