Both LCD displays and solar panels have dropped drastically
in the past few years. The problem I see with the OP's suggestion
is that a mast mounted display needs some pretty large characters,
needs to be very waterproof and UV proof. There still needs to
be a computer (albiet it fairly simple) to do the work. This all
mounts up into a non-cheap device. There are some simple
repeaters out there that are cheap but are intended to be used
at a nav station or at the helm. None are big enough for mast
mount use. I'd guess that the cost for a commercial unit is not
really that outrageous.

Doug
s/v Callista

"SAIL LOCO" wrote in message
...
LCDs are like solar panels. Been around for a long time but never drop in
price. The current flat panel television craze hopefully will change
that.
S/V Express 30 "Ringmaster"
"No shirt, no skirt, full service"