[Rhodes22-list] GPS Choice

[peter klappert]

[I've already written most of this message before, but my PC decided to install an update and restart while I was doing so. This version will be more hasty.]

When choosing electronics for Aeolia I followed Practical Sailor's ratings as closely as I could, along with recommendations from the List. Of course newer models succeed the PS-rated models in no time.

I chose the Garmin 541s rather than the 545s, because when I checked them out in a West Marine store the enhanced resolution of the latter didn't seem to justify the enhanced cost. It's mounted on the starboard bulkhead in the cockpit with an Airmar Model P79 transducer mounted in the laarret. (I think the sounder was chosen by Stan--I'd have to check my invoices.) I always remove the 541s when the boat is not in use.

I also got the Garmin 76Cx handheld, which I use a great deal because I find I can't see the 541s well from the tiller. I plan to add a (removable) fixed tiller extension, because it's hard to stay on course when using the hiking stick at the front of the cockpit. Too much wiggle. (I probably need cataract surgery but I doubt that will make the 541s much easier to use, what with glare, reflections, fingerprints on the screen, etc.) The real solution would be either a much larger and more expensive screen or finding a way to mount the 541s closer to the tiller.

With either of the 541 or 76Cx you'll want (need) to buy the G2 Vision Cards, but there have been a lot of promotions offering the cards free or offering rebates. That may mean Garmin is about to release new models.

Two other points: (1) Initially I couldn't seem to configure the 541s to give me the info I wanted, particularly aids to navigation. Turns out you only get most of these is you choose "maximum detail." Other elements of set up strike me as counter-intuitive &/or are not well explained in the owner's manual, but that's not unusual with hi-tech electronics. The people who write these manuals should be condemned to using them. (2) I'm not real happy with the sonar graphics, which are not very precise, particularly when using the split navigation/sonar screen.

P

BTW: The vhf recommended by Practical Sailor is no longer made by Standard Horizon. I sent an email to Darrell Nicholson (PS editor), explaining that I was having an R22 built & following PS's ratings--did he have an opinion on the best vhf for a pocket cruiser now? His reply started "Great choice of boat!"



----- Original Message -----
From: "butterchurn" <amazingmisterx at gmail.com>
To: rhodes22-list at rhodes22.org
Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2012 11:53:26 AM
Subject: [Rhodes22-list]  GPS Choice


I'm looking at getting a GPS for Ozone.  I was wondering about your
recommendations.  I will be needing it on the Great Lakes for the most part.

What do you think about Garmin 76 vs 78 vs 431?

Thanks for the advice ahead of time.
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