May 8, 2009 12:30
So after a bit of poking around, here's the solution I'm installing on my Dehler 101 (33ft)
Start with a Mac running MacENC (laptop or Mini)
Power your computer off your boat's battery via a supply from http://mikegyver.com/IdeasnProducts/Index.html They make great DC to DC converters for Minis and MBPros with that propitiatory Magsafe connector $120 for a refurb unit with a 1 year warranty
GPS via BU-353: GlobalSat BU-353 Waterproof USB GPS Receiver Selling now for as little as $36
Remote monitors added via USB powered Monitors (as many as you want to add no video cards needed). I bought Century's Plus One 8-inch USB monitor. It's an 800x600 monitor... Not waterproof but at less than $175 and in my small environment I'm routing an opening to insert Lexan and placing the monitor behind that. They also make a pretty cool 4.5inch model as well selling for under $100 each. I guess you could make an enclosure to mount outside too if you were so inclined
Add inexpensive USB cables for about $30 and you are done
Cost outside of your computer and software with a few odds and ends for mounting is well under $400 for a laptop and a remote 8 inch monitor.
I'll post pictures soon
Start with a Mac running MacENC (laptop or Mini)
Power your computer off your boat's battery via a supply from http://mikegyver.com/IdeasnProducts/Index.html They make great DC to DC converters for Minis and MBPros with that propitiatory Magsafe connector $120 for a refurb unit with a 1 year warranty
GPS via BU-353: GlobalSat BU-353 Waterproof USB GPS Receiver Selling now for as little as $36
Remote monitors added via USB powered Monitors (as many as you want to add no video cards needed). I bought Century's Plus One 8-inch USB monitor. It's an 800x600 monitor... Not waterproof but at less than $175 and in my small environment I'm routing an opening to insert Lexan and placing the monitor behind that. They also make a pretty cool 4.5inch model as well selling for under $100 each. I guess you could make an enclosure to mount outside too if you were so inclined
Add inexpensive USB cables for about $30 and you are done
Cost outside of your computer and software with a few odds and ends for mounting is well under $400 for a laptop and a remote 8 inch monitor.
I'll post pictures soon