December 26, 2007 08:19
I use a Garmin GPS76Map on Jaga, mounted in the cockpit and hardwired into the electrical and my NMEA 'network'. NMEA (thus all the gps data) get to my Mac via a bluetooth multiplexor. Works really well but might be more complex than you want. I could have run a different GPS with USB, but the NMEA wiring is much simpler without the distance constraints of USB.
Also, while I have the 'map' version of the '76', I don't use the charts. I find looking at charts on those small screens sort of like trying to drive while looking through a paper towel tube. Zoom in enough to read it and you're looking at too small a piece of chart. On the '76' I find using the compass rose screen the most useful, as it gives me direction and speed. Sometimes I'll upload a course, and even without the chart it can tell me graphically how close I am to the plotted course. Finally, I like having the handheld in cockpit because in an emergency I can just grab it and go.
Haven't seen the Fortrex before but it also looks interesting. Might be a good choice for my backup.
Scot
Also, while I have the 'map' version of the '76', I don't use the charts. I find looking at charts on those small screens sort of like trying to drive while looking through a paper towel tube. Zoom in enough to read it and you're looking at too small a piece of chart. On the '76' I find using the compass rose screen the most useful, as it gives me direction and speed. Sometimes I'll upload a course, and even without the chart it can tell me graphically how close I am to the plotted course. Finally, I like having the handheld in cockpit because in an emergency I can just grab it and go.
Haven't seen the Fortrex before but it also looks interesting. Might be a good choice for my backup.
Scot