gps laptop

[yodaddy]

I used this free plotter software - http://opencpn.org/ocpn/ on a laptop , with this GPS receiver http://www.amazon.com/GlobalSat-BU-3.../dp/B000PKX2KA . I find laptop touchpads difficult to use on land, and almost impossible on a rolling boat, so grabbed a cheap trackball mouse for menu navigation. It worked great.

I ended up installing a DC->AC inverter and mounting a mini-ITX computer (with solid state drive) on the cuddy bulkhead, and connected it to a touchscreen. Works great, plus I have the added advantage of full internet access on my boat since there's open wireless networks everywhere.

[roffey]

Thanks you answered my question. I am a computer tech by trade. Laptops are portable but not so much when running, even with a solid state hard drive. So,, I think I will just purchas a used or new chart plotter or maybe just use maps for now..

[Destroyer]

Not sure of your needs, but if you have a sonar unit already, I would suggest that you go the radar/chartplotter route. I got a Raymarine unit for that very reason. Already had 2 nice sonar units, one with GPS built in, so I figured that the radar /chartplotter was the logical way to go. Just a suggestion.

[roffey]

Originally Posted by Destroyer

Not sure of your needs, but if you have a sonar unit already, I would suggest that you go the radar/chartplotter route. I got a Raymarine unit for that very reason. Already had 2 nice sonar units, one with GPS built in, so I figured that the radar /chartplotter was the logical way to go. Just a suggestion.

I have a "fish finder" so I belive that is sonar, so you think all I need is the GPS unit.

[Destroyer]

Originally Posted by roffey

I have a "fish finder" so I belive that is sonar, so you think all I need is the GPS unit.

Everything always depends on your needs and your wants. I presume you already have a compass, so yes, a GPS would be your next logical item. Whether you get a hand held, radar/chartplotter, sonar/chartplotter, or some other type is entirely up to you, your budget and your needs.

[roffey]

Originally Posted by Destroyer

Everything always depends on your needs and your wants. I presume you already have a compass, so yes, a GPS would be your next logical item. Whether you get a hand held, radar/chartplotter, sonar/chartplotter, or some other type is entirely up to you, your budget and your needs.

Not keen on hand held as driving the boat is what I am looking forward to. I do have some cash to put into this boat but am waiting to see if it's worth putting cash into it or just buy a different boat or new to me boat. I purchased the boat and trailer for $3500 or as I tell my wife I bought a trailer and got the boat for free.
Your advice and experience is what I am looking for. I will be asking for lots of advice over the summer if I restore this boat and that***8217;s what I really want to do***8230; make it mine..