[RBJ]

It's just a matter of time before all electronic charts are free to download and available in S-57 ENC format.

I really hope you are right but given the huge revenue streams generated by the current system I'm not optimistic.

Both Garmin and Raymarine have put forth expensive closed proprietary systems.

Guess who made my kit! I bought my boat second hand (8+ years old) and it was fitted with Autohelm (Now Raymarine) electronics. I also have 2 Garmin handheld GPS's. When the radar failed it seemed logical to stick with Raymarine for compatibility and I was happy with the new kit. I had a lead included in the installation to feed the GPS to my Mac.

All OK until I discovered the chart problem. I've learned my lesson. I'ts not an option to change my electronics now but if/when upgrade/replacement time comes I know what to look for.

Back in 2002 when I started developing nav software for the Mac I saw on the Windows world, expensive clumsy solutions. I aspired to do better and offer a fair price. Frequent updates available for immediate download fit into that strategy.

Quite right too. This customer is very happy with your software and approach.

I guess your situation is similar to Apple's when they launched I-Tunes. The ability to offer innovative products to customers is fettered by backward thinking owners of copyrighted material.