Chartplotter

For the longest time, man relied on stars to locate his position on the globe. People still do that occasionally, particularly in the absence of any working technology. However, in modern marine navigation, there are safety and navigation standards to be maintained. That is why the use of the chartplotter has become a necessity for all ships and sailing vessels.

The first chartplotter was made in Italy by a firm called “Navionics”. Today, there are many manufacturers that make and sell chartplotters, including Garmin, Hummingbird, Lowrance, and Raymarine.

There are many features and choices that the chartplotter (sometimes spelled as two words: chart plotter) can be equipped with. The capabilities and features of the plotter greatly depend on the range of functions it needs to carry out. There are, however, some basics that need to be part of the chartplotter.

Chartplotter Buying Considerations

These are some of the things you need to consider if you ever want to buy or upgrade a chartplotter. 

The heart of the chart plotter is an electronic chart. An electronic chart, or a database of charts, influences the accuracy and functionality of the plotter. There are two types of chartplotters based on accreditation. An Electronic Charting System (ECS) is a plotter that uses charts that are accredited by appropriate government organizations. An Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) use charts accredited by the International Maritime Organization. 

In addition to this, there are two types of charts: raster and vector. Raster charts are pictures of paper maps displayed on the screen on the chartplotter. These are referenced to geographic coordinates. Vector charts are duplicates of a chart using raw information. Using vectors charts can be advantageous because there is less information storage needed. Chart plotters with vector charts are also able to recognize certain features of the waters being navigated. 

Another thing you need to consider is the chartplotter display and audio. Some plotters are able to display 3D images which are useful in fishfinding. Depending on the plotter, it can also have display options such as single screen, split screen, and even multiple displays. Some chartplotters can also be programmed to give out warning sounds which are useful in avoiding accidents out on sea. 

You also have to think about the kind of screen the chart plotter will have. LCD screens with low specified brightness levels are perfect for indoor use; this is also true for color CRT screens. However, if you plan to use your plotter outdoors or in bright sunlight, you should go for an LCD screen with a specified brightness of 1400 nit or even higher. 

Lastly, you need to determine whether you want a hand-held/portable or stationary chartplotter. The choice obviously depends on the activities you are engaged in.  

You have a lot of things to consider before buying a chartplotter or any time of marine gps system, for that matter. Remember to check your needs and be mindful of your budget when making that final decision. Picking that perfect chartplotter will definitely help you with your hobby or your profession. Marine navigation has certainly come a long way since the times when people used stars to navigate their vessels.