Here is my setup:

I use a Garmin 276C mounted in the cockpit. I feed my notebook/laptop
in the cabin via a long USB cable and the 276C in "Garmin Data
Transfer Mode"

When you buy your Garmin Blue Charts you will have to to find a
version of "Mapsource" Version 6.5 or earlier. Mapsource is the
(Garmin) chart management-plotting software that you will use in
conjunction with your Garmin GPS and Garmin "Blue Charts". Those
earlier Mapsource versions will allow you to see your vessel in
real-time on your notebook with the data fed from your (Garmin) GPS.
Versions of Mapsource after 6.5 do NOT support this. Don't follow
Garmins advice and use "N-Route" instead - it sucks.

I also bring my very small printer (Canon IP90) with me as well. I
print my own "charts for the day" from Mapsource. You can print in any
scale and the size at 8 1/2 X 11 (landscape) is very easy to handle.
(if they get wet they are screwed though, plastic sheet protectors
help)

These Mapsource printed charts are NOT suitable for "navigating" as
they have no lat/long reference or compass rose. They are however
great as a reference in keeping track of your relative location. First
I plot a course with lots of waypoints. Even if my plotted course is a
straight line from A to B I will drop a waypoint in every .5 nautical
miles or so. I then print my "charts". Course to follow shows up on
the charts as a pruple line with (previously numbered) waypoints). I
can then follow my vessels progress relative to the waypoints along
the way.

I hope this is of some help.


.....................and before the flaming starts - yes I carry
printed Gov't charts for all waters I sail. I sail in Canadian waters.
The "free" US charts are of no use/value to me, therefore software
like "Capn" is of no interest or use to me.


regards



"Spamson"

(the name deflects the spammers - e'addy works as is))