On 9 Mar 2008 14:14:02 -0500, Dave wrote:

If you're looking to build an effective system without spending a lot of
money, you might consider a system like the one I have. It's a low end
Garmin unit connected via the serial port to an ancient laptop running
SeaClear software. The software allows you to use the practically unlimited
library of charts from NOAA that can be downloaded from their website. Gives
a very nice display of your vessel position on the electronic chart, with
course, SOG, etc., and the charts load automatically as you come to the edge
of the one you're using.

Are you using the raster or vector charts? I was under the
impression, perhaps incorrect, that SeaClear was vector only. My
personal preference on a laptop is for the raster charts.

OziExplorer is available is for $95 and supports *many* different map
formats.

http://www.oziexplorer.com/