GPS to be replaced by new Navigation System

[Reel Fanatic]

I have studied this new system and here is my professional opinion:

The freeware version is actually better than the full blown (no pun intended) version. The full version once mounted on your vessel is impossible to remove and trying to upgrade to a new system or modify your existing system could cost you your vessel. This is one of those instances where the boat goes with the system rather than the other way around.

There is a minor amount of deviation initially which is actually fun to watch known as WAAS (What An Awesome Set!) but as the units gain more hours, the deviation is hard to work with and the units get very undependable PMS (Permanently Malfuntioning System).

Although all models come with 2 expansion slots and an auto-pilot expansion slot, most have a factory defect which will only allow for the use of the standard expansion slot. If you have one of the defective units, don't even try to make the auto-pilot function work. These units have a speaker installed where the expansion slot is supposed to be. Trying to retro-fit these units once mounted on the vessel can only lead to possible damage to your body and/ or your vessel. The expansion slots on the Chinese-made versions, contrary to urban legend, do not run horizontally and are prone to the same design issues as the US-made versions only with a little less deviation at the time of install in the newer models.

There are some models that are very compact but equipped with a defective artificial intelligence module. Unfortunately, once it is installed, it immediately begins to re-size itself to take up as much space as possible and repeatedly yells out errant information when you are trying to maneuver your vessel in close quarters... Yet another reason to get the freeware version.

My synopsis is this. If you want to get to where you want to go quickly, do not get this new system. If you just want to go somewhere and enjoy the ride, get the freeware version, upgrade regularly, and make sure all expansion slots are fully operational before installation. In order to ensure you have the freeware version, check the serial number on the little green card and look for an "INS" at the end since most all of them are made in Mexico.

[Capt. Lyndon]

And one other thing, NEVER mount new hardware on the unit, it has a bad habit of causing ALL expansion slots to malfunction and only work on special occasions.

[Reel Fanatic]

In some cases, if you try new hardware, it will instantly modify it's software so that it can only work when the new hardware is installed.

[ReelSmith]

Looks like a fun sytem to tweek and play with the sensitivity! Easy buttons for adjustments!

[Capt. Lyndon]

I wonder what the arrival sounds like?

[Reel Fanatic]

Sounds a lot like a blender and smells like a marguerita.

[N2theBlue]

i thought it smelled like fish tacos?

[Reel Fanatic]

That's only after it's been broken in. Right out of the box it's more like a marguerita or daquiri.

[Gringo]

It appears to me that this system will exhibit the same ambiguities that any two point navigation system will produce anytime you cross the baseline.

Basically, there are two solutions for position, one on each side of that baseline.

[bobfish21]

gonna have to remove half your boat if you want to upgrade!