April 17, 2007 12:46
It has come time for me to specify the electronics that I want the factory to install on a new boat (a Lagoon 420). This is a production boat, so the factory is not really interested in doing a custom job. I will have additional work done after the boat comes off the line.
The factory will install Raymarine instruments and autopilot. I will have a radar installed after market. I am passing on adding a chartplotter (the 12" Raymarine unit runs around $4000). I would prefer to use my MacMini as the "brains" of the boat, for course plotting, GPS navigation, and general multi-media use (video and music).
My main question is about the radar. I know that the Raymarine instruments use "Seatalk" as the interface language (I may be using the wrong terminology). If I add a Raymarine radar, can the MacENC program "read" this input and can I then overlay it onto the electronic charts? What hardware will I need to connect the Mac to the radar?
I also want to use a MacBook to take onshore and for internet connection. Can the mini and the MacBook share the MacENC program?
Finally, what am I overlooking?
Thanks for any suggestions or help.
Charlie
P.S. I also need to find a 12v monitor/video screen that I can use as the display for the mini and also for the family to watch movies. There must be 12v screens out there. Where should I start looking?
The factory will install Raymarine instruments and autopilot. I will have a radar installed after market. I am passing on adding a chartplotter (the 12" Raymarine unit runs around $4000). I would prefer to use my MacMini as the "brains" of the boat, for course plotting, GPS navigation, and general multi-media use (video and music).
My main question is about the radar. I know that the Raymarine instruments use "Seatalk" as the interface language (I may be using the wrong terminology). If I add a Raymarine radar, can the MacENC program "read" this input and can I then overlay it onto the electronic charts? What hardware will I need to connect the Mac to the radar?
I also want to use a MacBook to take onshore and for internet connection. Can the mini and the MacBook share the MacENC program?
Finally, what am I overlooking?
Thanks for any suggestions or help.
Charlie
P.S. I also need to find a 12v monitor/video screen that I can use as the display for the mini and also for the family to watch movies. There must be 12v screens out there. Where should I start looking?