Standard Horizon who makes cool chartplotters and VHF radios has a new lineup for 2011. Included in the lineup is a very interesting chartplotter the CPN series. The CPN700i and the CP1010i are 7 inch and 10 inch displays respectively and takes the chartplotter to a whole new level.
Chartplotter has been the name given to displays that show electronic charts with an integrated GPS which shows a boats position. This electronic navigation display has seen recent developments with more and more functions being added. Now these chartplotters are called multifunction displays.
MFDs as they are known can help you with navigation and then add Weather, AIS and radar overlays, display boat instruments and engine data. Although fairly expensive the single MFD display can cover many functions, so you only have one purchase and a single device takes up less space.
What makes these new Standard Horizon CPN displays interesting is the addition of Wi-Fi, sound and Bluetooth. Standard Horizon calls the CPN a multi media MFD. These features start to move the chartplotter closer to the Computer. When tied up to the dock you do not need the MFD for navigation or viewing instruments, so now with the internet capability the CPN lets you check E-mail, surf the web, check for weather and do research for the next trip.
Previously you would need a computer to do this. You can also position the display and watch a movie. Use the built in speakers or connect to the stereo.
INNOVATIONS: Touch Screen, WiFi / Bluetooth, Built-in speakers :
- WiFi; Surf internet, check and reply to emails.
- Bluetooth; Connect wirelessly to a keyboard, mouse or CALLER ID onscreen so you know when your cell phone is ringing while under way.
- Built-in Speakers; Listen to MP3 music or watch movies.
- Built-in charts; Preloaded with detailed maps for coastal navigation of the USA including, Alaska, Hawaii and Great Lakes, Canada, Bahamas, Caribbean, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Central American.
These displays will be available March/April 2011.