GPS Unit

[chumbucket]

I'm not saying Mapsource is bad. Just that Bluechart is that much better. They're all Mapsource products.

[Blue_Runner]

Right on CB... I didn't mean it literally. Geez, I hope I didn't make any MapSource fans mad!

So, to recap, the unit comes with the worldwide basemap and an unlock code for the region of my choice. The only thing I'm still a little unclear on is what the additional BlueChart software might provide over the worldwide basemap? Sorry, I'm a little s - l - o - w. You gotta dummy it down for us computer programmer types!

Thanks,
Blue

[chumbucket]

The unit comes with worldwide basemap that has very little detail. It'll show a basic, rough outline of the shoreline and very little other pertinent data. You get the unlock code when you purchase the Bluechart CD. Check Gramin's website for detailed information about chart coverage for your area. The Bluechart software, when added to the GPS, overlays a very detailed chart of the area you are in and receiving a satellite signal from. These overlay charts are exact copies of the NOAA paper charts that everyone uses and should continue to use as a backup. Then as you travel to different areas, your boat appears as a triangular icon that moves over the overlay chart. That chart will scroll continuously to the limits of what you have downloaded into the GPS' memory.
Hope that clears it up for you. Ask away if not and I'll try to explain better. Garmin's are very user friendly though and you'll get it right away. ;)

[chumbucket]

BTW; if you don't find what you want (pricewise) on Ebay, try these guys.
http://www.gpscity.com/gps/brados/09...285/172ce.html

[macojoe]

Thats a nice unit!! I would have gotten that unit if I didn't get such a great deal on mine!!!!!!

You will wonder how you ever lived with out it!!!

I went out of Chatam this summer many times and you couldn't see 10 feet in front of you!! Chatam is noted for it FOG!!
This thing was right on everytime!! And whats nice about it is that it remembers when you were there last and shows your route with a dotted line. You don't even have to put the waypoints in cause there already showing you the way as soon as you turn it on.

Sure i could have made it out there with the old handheld but there is nothing like being able to see were you are on the chart!!

[Blue_Runner]

My buddy has one on his 20ft Mckeecraft. I got to see it in action, so I know how nice they are. And, you are correct - I don't know how I'm catchin fish without it! I guess I'll just catch alot more once I have it?!

CB - that's exactly the level of detail I was looking for, thank you sir.

Off to peruse BSP!!

[Blue_Runner]

OOOOooo man, wouldn't it be nice to have the auto pilot??? I'm gettin a bad feelin about this.

[CT_V-20]

This is a very helpful thread as I am considering GPS for the spring and was confused about basemaps and more detailed, "uploadable" charts. Now here is another question. I would like one unit that combines a depth sounder and GPS. Does anybody know if a unit like a Garmin GPS Map/168 Sounder, which does both, can show either a full screen of GPS or a full screen of sounder functions rather than just a split screen?

[sailboat]

Will show all one or the other or a split screen. Your choice.

[CT_V-20]

Thanks Fluty. I think that's going to be my (only) Christmas present this year (maybe - depending on how generous Santa is feeling). I can't wait to use it (hopefully).