Monthly Archive: May 2020
Alas, the old Maritime 20 I bought last fall is still a driveway boat, but I’d like to think that Junior will look sharp when it does launch. I extended the black trim paint to the dash — and have almost finished all new wiring and electronics (and am excited about testing that Humminbird Solix 10) — but to my eye, the good looks of the Maritime and Evenrude E-Tec designs really popped when the branding decals came off. Getting some of them off wasn’t easy, however, so I’ll share what I learned…
Garmin announced today the quatix 6X Solar, the latest addition to its new marine GPS smartwatch series that features a transparent solar charging display that uses the sun’s energy to extend battery life. As the first Garmin marine-centric GPS smartwatch to offer solar charging, the quatix 6X Solar combines all of the best features of Garmin’s fēnix 6X Pro Solar with specialized boating, fishing, cruising and sailing capabilities so users can enjoy more time on the water.
Aqua Map version 10 is now available for Android while Aqua Map Master 2.0 is available for both Android and iOS with several new features. The new Android version brings the same speedy map performance released to iOS the end of last year. The new features in Master 2.0 add even more features to the already feature-packed $10 per year add-on package.
About two weeks ago I wrapped up the installation of Dometic’s Optimus All Electric Steering System. I first wrote about this system the end of last year as it collected several major innovation and design awards. At the time I was intrigued by what it promised and the improvements it could bring to the installation and operation of outboard steering systems.
The Sirius Signal C-1002 — the first electronic Visual Distress Signal Device (eVDSD) built to the new RTCM two color standard — is now a shipping product, and Panbo testing has commenced. Also in hand is the new C-1003, which meets the existing USCG white eVDSD standard with minor improvements over the original Sirius Signal (Weems & Plath) model that trail blazed a legal alternative to mandated pyrotechnic flares. I haven’t tested either device on the water yet, but I’m already convinced that smarter, brighter eVDSDs are here, but now with a distinct better/best choice…
Veratron’s new NMEA 2000 Liquid Level Sensor overcomes a laundry list of issues that plague traditional fluid level monitoring solutions, including full linear measuring for exact readings. Powered by an NMEA 2000 network, three models are available to accommodate a wide range of tank depths from 7.8″ to 59″.
As part of the Virtual Palm Beach International Boat Show, marine electronics leader KVH is presenting two free virtual educational seminars on the topics of bringing Internet and satellite TV to the boat. “Even though boaters can’t go to the Palm Beach show in person this year, the virtual webinars are a great way to …
Fischer Panda UK has announced that its latest generators are now officially NMEA 2000 certified. Enabling easy integration of compatible generators with other on-board systems, the new National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) certification confirms that Fischer Panda GmbH fulfils the requirements for the widely recognised communications standard for marine electronics equipment…
Seatronx, manufacturer, distributor and designer of the finest rugged electronics catering specifically to the military, maritime and industrial markets, announced today the launch of the Seatronx Digital Matrix Switching Command Control system (SCC). The Seatronx SCC takes bridge control to a completely new level. The system not only allows operators to control individual or multiple displays including…
As the hands-on proprietor of a marine systems installation company — and as an avid cruiser on my own time — I’ve learned that new climate control technology is changing the way we go boating. By pairing DC air conditioning systems with advanced battery chemistries, we can finally install powerful climate systems on boats without generators.
