There are big differences between radar displays and PC monitors. One of the
most difficult to overcome is the resolution and aspect ratio between the
two. The second problem is power. DC powered screens are expensive. The
third is intensity control. PC displays do not offer adequate control at low
intensity settings. Next is back glow. PC monitors have far too much back
glow when displaying black. It destroys night vision. Last, but not least,
is moisture resistance. Marine screens are usually IP 66 and ruggedized,
where PC screens have no protection rating.

The price difference is not because of the above differences, which
obviously do add some cost, but is actually created by the volume sold and
the certifications required by most of the marine sales.

Steve

"ray lunder" wrote in message
...
I'm thinking about a $1200 budget radar for a small boat but the
screens are absurdly small. Is there any way to jack out to a 15" pc
monitor? These are $150, run on 12v and you can read them. The video
chip is what, about $6 for manufacturers? Is anybody doing this yet?
Keep bailing, ray.