Boat Gps and Chartplotter. Marine GPS units are revolutionizing boating. A global positioning system unit (GPS) is handy for both experienced and inexperienced boaters because it tracks the exact coordinates of a vessel when out in large bodies of water.
They help boaters navigate by using satellites to pinpoint the location of the GPS unit and comparing that to marine charts. The units can guide boats back into shore, get them to a new destination, find fish, or even map out the terrain under the water, notifying a boater if the water is getting shallow or a large rock is close by. Even the basic GPS systems provide smoother navigation by eliminating the need for maps and compasses.
The different features that marine GPS units can have are nearly endless which allows people to get a system that is tailored for their needs. This guide will help shoppers determine what GPS to purchase by discussing the 10 things to consider before buying a marine GPS unit.
Ten Things to Consider When Selecting a Marine GPS Unit
Which marine GPS unit to purchase is an important decision because the systems greatly improve water safety and the ease of navigation. Buyers can get very basic units or ones that are capable of doing everything but the steering. Before shopping, boaters should first determine what they need from a GPS by considering these 10 things:
1. How Many Satellites Does the Marine GPS Unit Use?
Marine GPS units need to use at least 12 satellites to function properly. However, the more satellites used, the more accurate the device will be. A high-quality marine navigation system will use all 24 of the satellites in the GPS system.
2. How Large is the Screen?
A larger screen makes a huge difference in being able to clearly read the maps and coordinates displayed on the screen. Some systems even read the layout of the ocean or lake bed so that boaters know where all of the rocks and shallow areas are. In order to be able to clearly see everything, a larger screen is needed.
3. Is the Marine GPS Unit Portable?
The devices are available as either handheld units or larger marine GPS receivers. The handheld is smaller and more compact, making it easier to carry around. However, because of the size, the handheld ones have reduced mapping capabilities as well as a small screen. The GPS receivers are larger with more features and a bigger screen. The units are still removable and can be placed inside a vehicle when not being used on a boat.
4. Can the Marine GPS Unit Connect to a Computer?
GPS systems can save information like the routes taken, maps, or waypoints. In addition to this, sometimes extra maps can be downloaded or purchased. In order to get access to information or add more on, the GPS needs to be able to connect to a computer either through a cord or an SD card.
5. Does the Marine GPS Unit Have a Port for an Antenna?
A lot of marine GPSs have built-in, internal antennas. These are more compact but their reception is not as good. Either look for a unit that comes with an external antenna, or get one that has a port so that an external antenna can be added. The extra reception allows for faster, more accurate mapping and weather forecasts.
6. What Safety Features Does the Marine GPS Unit Have?
GPS units should have several ways to protect boaters from catastrophe. Refer to the chart below for a list of safety features and their descriptions.
