On Tue, 31 Aug 2004 16:05:13 GMT, "Doug Kanter"
wrote:


"Harry Krause" wrote in message
...
Wayne.B wrote:
On 30 Aug 2004 22:18:03 -0700, (Rex Jones)
wrote:
Anyone interested in NOAA charts.. I have available high resolution
full color digital charts ( on CD's) for just about all US waters and
possessions. Issue dates are from mid 80's to 2000. These charts are
calibrated for use with the included real-time navigation software
that shows position, speed, direction etc. similar to Maptech or
Nobeltec navigation programs. For more information check out my
website at http://americanchart.com Also included are other free
navigation aids and programs, GPS positions, navigation info and other
utilities.
===========================================

If the quality of your business is no better than the website, don't
quit your day job.


Wayne -

Are you doing anything with digital charts? I've gotten weary of the
small GPS chartplotters (I have a Standard Horizon 170 on Yo Ho), and
think the larger ones are grossly overpriced, considering they basically
are single-purpose devices, and even the $2500 units have relatively
small screens. My tiny block of Garmin stock doesn't earn me much of a
discount!

So, once again, I am considering switching over to a PC-software based
chartplotter. I've messed around using my laptop on Yo Ho, but the
keyboards on these devices don't react well to moisture. So I am
thinking of picking up one of the small footprint PC boxes, either 12V
or run off a converter, and installing a 15" LCD screen in the cabin and
a waterproof keyboard on top of the "dashboard."

I've been using Cap'n Mariner; do you have experience with any of the
other suites? Interestingly, ALL the hardware one needs for such an
installation is half the price of a $2500 dedicated chartplotter, plus
you get a much larger screen, a real keyboard and the ability to perform
the usual computer functions.

Any advice?

I haven't used charts in years, since the Lake Ontario chart basically says
"deep", "deeper" or "holy **** it's really deep". Doesn't anyone use paper
charts any more?

ROTFLMAO!!!!

Do those charts also have a "Here there be monsters" warning? :)

Actually, I had this discussion with my brother this morning. I've
always used paper charts with electronic backup when available. I
really like the new graphical GPS units, in particular my latest toy,
a Raymarine RC400 which is REALLY cool. He prefers electronic.

But I will always use visual/radar fixes and paper checking against
the GPS everytime.

Later,

Tom