December 4, 2009 07:54
Hi Jade,
It's looking like I could get a 15", 1024x768, sunlight readable, LED-backlit, waterproof, touch-screen display for less than the Furuno units (even factoring in the Maxsea license). That's with waterproof connectors, etc. I can feed the display directly from the Mac Mini. I'd much rather rely on the Mini since I can replace parts in it quite easily (and carry them with me). The screen has surprisingly low power requirements, and along with the Mini consumes similar amps as a typical laptop. I can't carry extra parts for a name-brand plotter, because there's really nothing user serviceable. I would carry a spare HD, 12V dc-dc regulator, memory, and possibly a main-board (logic board) for the Mini.
Also, big bonus points for being able to run iTunes with a touch screen from the cockpit.
I really do like MacENC. However, it does seem sluggish stacked up against even old versions of Maxsea. I'm running it on a brand new Mini, with the HD upgraded to a 7200RPM model. I also don't like that it doesn't have a "full-screen" mode, to make better use of limited space on a lower-resolution helm monitor.
I'm torn between running a minimal (cheap) boat, and having lots of information and slick nav software at my fingertips. I'm looking forward to seeking out the best compromise. If I do add "gadgets", I like to be able to fix them without relying on some manufacturer 100%.
Ended up rambling a bit there, sorry
It's looking like I could get a 15", 1024x768, sunlight readable, LED-backlit, waterproof, touch-screen display for less than the Furuno units (even factoring in the Maxsea license). That's with waterproof connectors, etc. I can feed the display directly from the Mac Mini. I'd much rather rely on the Mini since I can replace parts in it quite easily (and carry them with me). The screen has surprisingly low power requirements, and along with the Mini consumes similar amps as a typical laptop. I can't carry extra parts for a name-brand plotter, because there's really nothing user serviceable. I would carry a spare HD, 12V dc-dc regulator, memory, and possibly a main-board (logic board) for the Mini.
Also, big bonus points for being able to run iTunes with a touch screen from the cockpit.
I really do like MacENC. However, it does seem sluggish stacked up against even old versions of Maxsea. I'm running it on a brand new Mini, with the HD upgraded to a 7200RPM model. I also don't like that it doesn't have a "full-screen" mode, to make better use of limited space on a lower-resolution helm monitor.
I'm torn between running a minimal (cheap) boat, and having lots of information and slick nav software at my fingertips. I'm looking forward to seeking out the best compromise. If I do add "gadgets", I like to be able to fix them without relying on some manufacturer 100%.
Ended up rambling a bit there, sorry