As our everyday electronic gadgets become more sophisticated and interconnected, this technology gets filtered down into the world of marine electronics. Larger, faster, better, connected, less expensive are all key operative phrases that summarize the paradigm shift that boat owners are currently experiencing with their choice of outfitting their fishing platforms.
Having been swept up in the wave of interconnectivity sweeping the marine electronics field, specifically with a recent new engine upgrade on my 228 EdgeWater CC, I also installed a NMEA 2000 network to connect my digital drive-by-wire Mercury 250 V8 to the rest of my marine electronics suite. This seamless interfacing of disparate elements (Merc MFD, Simrad GO12, Si-Tex AIS) into one homogeneous information center is really amazing and part of my brain wonders what took me so long to jump onboard? In contrast, the more conservative side of my cranium shares some trepidation of this full commitment to a single integrated system that is totally reliant on numerous electronic connections and interfaces. These can all drop out of service at the same unfortunate moment due to a power surge or nearby lighting activity and I’ve seen it happen.
To avoid this single source reliance for my marine electronics management system, my backup plan consists of a second GPS navigator in my arsenal that is totally independent of the aforementioned NMEA 2000 network. Also backing up the system is a spare VHF antenna that can be easily switched in or out of the system in a heartbeat, plus portable handheld GPS and VHF units that are in my backpack with extra sets of batteries for each. Hey, you never know? Now that I’ve got your attention on different degrees of Marine Electronics coverage and sophistication, let’s check out the latest that the 2021 season has to offer from some of the major players in the marketplace.
Furuno
One of the leading commercial brands worldwide, which includes US military vessels, Furuno continues to impress the recreational coastal market with improvements on their recently introduced TZtouch3 family of multi-function displays (MFDS). In early 2020, Furuno introduced NavNet TZtouch3, packing powerful features and functions into super-bright and responsive IPS displays. These units are not only some of the most powerful MFDs on the market, but also one of the easiest to use, with a variety of screen sizes and interface options to suit any boating style or size of vessel. Now, Furuno is expanding this product line with the addition of the TZT9F, a new, smaller MFD that packs the power of NavNet TZtouch3 into a 9-inch IPS display, suitable for smaller helms, open center consoles, flybridges and second stations. Similar to the already popular 12-inch TZT12F, the Hybrid Control TZT9F is an IPS multi touch display with an integrated control panel that features Furuno’s intuitive RotoKeyT and dedicated physical buttons to complement NavNet TZtouch3’s multi touch controls. Its powerful quad-core processor takes NavNet’s TimeZero technology to the next level, offering 4-way split-screen displays and lightning-fast response time.
Furuno has endeavored to make NavNet TZtouch3 the easiest to use MFD available. The edge-swipe feature makes finding what you need a breeze. Swipe from the left of the screen to view or hide navigation data, from the right to see all of your shortcuts, from the bottom to view layer options, or from the top to access Quick Pages (custom screen configurations). A single tap selects most options, so you’re never more than a swipe and tap away from the most commonly accessed features.
The TZT9F includes a built-in 1kW, single-channel TruEcho CHIRPT Fish Finder. TruEcho CHIRPT, designed to operate across a wide range of frequencies utilizing a broadband transducer, delivers significant advantages in signal clarity and target definition. Due to the constant sweeping of frequencies, TruEcho CHIRPT is capable of gathering more & higher-quality data than traditional fish finders. A traditional CW 50/200kHz RezBoost Fish Finder is also included.
The hallmark of the NavNet series has always been its scalability. The TZT9F, along with the TZT12F, TZT16F, and TZT19F, allows mariners to customize their helm to build the perfect navigation suite with award-winning DRS Radars, both built-in and optional black box fish finder selections, AIS and VHF, NavPilot Autopilots, compasses, and multiple weather options. Furuno’s new power-packed 100 and 200-Watt NXT Solid-State Doppler radars deliver high-powered, state-of-the-art radar features to TZtouch3. Functions such as Fast Target TrackingT, Furuno’s advanced Bird Mode, Rain Mode, and Target AnalyzerT, where dangerous radar targets are shown in red and alert navigators to the current situation at-a-glance. Furuno’s wide selection of dome and open array radars in both magnetron and solid-state configurations insures there is a radar to meet the needs of every vessel.
NavNet TZtouch3 includes an extensive library of MapMedia Raster and Vector cartography for the US coastline, with even more options available for purchase, including C-MAP, Datacore by Navionics and CMOR bathymetric imagery (available in the US only). NavNet TZtouch3 keeps your data secure and easy-to-access on multiple platforms with the TZ Cloud ecosystem. The TZ Cloud service allows you to automatically back up and store your waypoints, routes, and event marks to the TimeZero cloud server, as well as synchronize and edit them on your MFDs, TimeZero PC software, and the TZ iBoat app for iPad. Direct access to tablets and smartphones via Wi-Fi is also available from NavNet TZtouch3 MFDs, with several free apps for both Apple and Android devices for viewing and control of your system. In addition to the built-in fish finder, you can also connect the amazing DFF3D Multi-Beam Sonar. The DFF3D allows you to see a 120-degree swath port to starboard for over 650 feet and nearly 1,000-feet directly beneath the boat, with multiple versatile display view options. You can also connect the BBWX4 to receive SiriusXM Satellite Weather overlays (subscription required). For more information, visit www.furunousa.com.
Humminbird
Humminbird recently announced the launch of the new APEX series of large screen MFDs. These combine Humminbird’s high-tech sonar technologies and full networking capabilities on a full-HD display, delivering the clearest and most-detailed display of sonar and chart technologies in Humminbird’s history. Humminbird has always focused on putting the best electronic tools in the hands of anglers to help them find and catch more fish. APEX offers more custom rigging options and large screen displays than ever before. The full-HD, 1920 x 1080 display allows anglers to see sonar and chart images with incredible detail, ensuring no fish goes unseen, on their choice of 13-inch, 16-inch or a massive 19-inch display. APEX’s Cross Touch Interface is powered by a powerful dual-core processor that provides lightning-fast Intuitive Control, as well as customization of features from either the touchscreen or the soft key inputs. Thanks to its low-profile design, APEX provides a sleek, custom look when mounted in-dash, with your choice of the included front mount in-dash kit or available rear mount in-dash kit, ensuring APEX will be a natural fit at any helm. Shown in full-HD detail, APEX offers anglers the best possible views and more sonar options with dual-channel CHIRP sonar support. Anglers can take advantage of Humminbird’s Dual Spectrum CHIRP (2D) sonar and MEGA Imaging+ sonar included on all models, as well as optional 2D CHIRP sonar transducers for specific applications and premium sonar performance. APEX provides a dedicated channel for Humminbird sonar technology, including MEGA Side Imaging+ and MEGA Down Imaging+, which now see further and deeper than ever before, with range and depth capabilities up to 250-feet under and to either side of the boat. Additionally, APEX’s second sonar channel provides an independent connection for accessory 2D CHIRP transducers up to 2 kilowatts and includes AirMar transducer ID, which provides simple configuration of settings for optimal sonar returns.
In addition, APEX offers a bounty of navigation and networking options, allowing anglers to customize the MFD to their fishing and vessel needs. Starting with built-in GPS and Humminbird Basemap, anglers have chart coverage for the entire continental U.S. coastline and 10,000 inland waters. Additional premium chart options from Humminbird CoastMaster, LakeMaster and Navionics offers anglers everywhere the confidence and information of complete chart coverage. For those looking for advanced networking, APEX has many options, including Dual Ethernet Ports for networking multiple MFDs, CHIRP Radar and Minn Kota i-Pilot Link trolling motors, an NMEA 0183 port for external GPS receiver and NMEA 0183 accessories, plus NMEA 2000 networking to support virtually all NMEA 2000 data and accessories.
Also new for 2021 is Humminbird’s new third generation SOLIX G3 MFDs that feature a powerful new dual-core processor, delivering lightning-fast responsiveness from either the touch screen or keypad via SOLIX’s Cross Touch interface. With the intuitive control of Cross Touch, SOLIX provides a customizable fishing experience that puts the most important features and functionality at the forefront. Anglers can create custom screen views and save up to ten as favorites in a quick-access sidebar menu, along with the ability to modify data overlays, waypoint settings and more, to match an angler’s fishing style and preferences. The SOLIX G3 Series now packs more technology into large, bright screens, giving anglers their choice of SOLIX G3 units in 10.1-inch, 12.1-inch or 15.4-inch high-definition, sunlight-viewable displays. For more informatio0n, visit www.humminbird.com.
Raymarine
Raymarine recently announced their new Axiom+ MFDs, a powerful series of multifunction displays for anglers, cruisers, and sailors, plus updated Raymarine LightHouse Charts cartography, bringing new levels of clarity and control to marine navigation. The successor to Raymarine’s award-winning Axiom line of MFDs, Axiom+ is engineered for speed, responsiveness and future expansion. Available in 7-inch, 9-inch and 12-inch displays, Axiom+ comes performance-tuned with a powerful quad-core processor for fast chart redraws, multi-channel sonar views and augmented reality navigation. Designed for excellent viewing in a wide range of lighting conditions, Axiom+ models feature a bright IPS LCD that is 25 percent brighter than previous Axiom models, resulting in improved clarity and wider viewing angles. Axiom+ also delivers improved touch-screen performance thanks to Raymarine’s HydroTough ruggedized, nano-coated display, which provides enhanced impact resistance, repels water and oils and enables accurate touch control in all conditions. Axiom+ includes four built-in sonar channels, including RealVision 3D, to deliver comprehensive views of the underwater world. A next-gen, ultra-sensitive GPS/GNSS receiver offers a 4-times improvement in sensitivity for accurate navigation, even in challenging installations.
Along with the upgraded Axiom+ line-up, Raymarine is unveiling a new electronic catalog of LightHouse Charts. LightHouse Charts are crafted from official hydrographic sources, the same data used by maritime professionals. LightHouse Charts offer Raymarine users a new level of clarity and customization, detail, and the ability to explore on-shore destinations, fishing spots, and points-of-interest (POI) data. Engineered for both recreational and professional applications, LightHouse Charts allow captains to switch between an official government-style chart presentation or an information-rich leisure chart view. Captains can also choose between a quartet of chart color pallets optimized for bright sun, dusk and nighttime lighting conditions. Raymarine users can also take advantage of a LightHouse Premium subscription and access continuous chart updates, an expanded points-of-interest library and enhanced satellite imagery from Mapbox. Each Axiom+ model is backed by a three-year warranty. For more information, visit www.raymarine.com.
Lowrance
Back in December, Lowrance announced the introduction of their most powerful Elite series fishfinder/chartplotter available, the new Elite FS. The latest introduction in Lowrance’s line-up of mid-range fishfinder/chartplotter displays, the Elite Fishing System (FS) combines a full line-up of fishfinding tools with a display that is easy to use and easy to install. From new, high resolution ActiveTarget Live Sonar and Active Imaging with Lowrance CHIRP Sonar, SideScan and DownScan Imaging to preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Fishing Maps, Elite FS offers anglers all the tools needed to find and catch more fish. Anglers can now target fish and watch high-res images of fish movements in real time with the ActiveTarget Live Sonar, tracking them as they swim in and around cover. This innovative solution allows users to see how fish are positioned in structure and how they respond to a lure presentation. With this view, anglers know if the current technique is working, or if it’s time to make an adjustment, information that traditional sonar or structure imaging simply won’t deliver. Captains can now spend more time trying to catch fish and less time trying to find them with the high-resolution detail of C-MAP Contour+ inland and coastal charts preloaded into Elite FS displays. From finding key fishing areas, like ledges, drop-offs and ditches, to navigating with precision to fish-holding areas, users will have more success on the water with high-resolution 1-foot contours on more than 8,900 U.S. lakes and on thousands of inland lakes in Canada.
Another benefit of the new Elite FS is the ability to see structure and cover with a new level of refined detail and at long range with Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar featuring CHIRP, SideScan and DownScan Imaging with FishReveal. Elite FS displays include full networking capability with Ethernet and NMEA 2000 connectivity and integrated wireless, making it easy for anglers to create a complete system that fits the way they fish. Add HALO Dome Radar, Outboard Pilot or share sonar, charting, waypoints and other user data between multiple displays via Ethernet. Available with 7- and 9-inch displays, the new Elite FS series includes a variety of model options with and without Active Imaging, as well as ActiveTarget Live Sonar transducer solutions.
Also new from Lowrance is a next-gen line-up of freshwater electric trolling motors. The new Ghost 52 and 60 models with 52- and 60-inch shafts respectively, bring all the benefits and features of the original Ghost trolling freshwater motor to boats with higher bows. Now there is a Lowrance trolling motor to fit the needs of all bass anglers, as well as a wide range of multi-species and walleye boats. The motor weighs 6-pounds less than brushed-motor equivalents, making it easier to install, deploy and stow. Ghost is designed to work in either 24- or 36-volt systems with up to 97- and 120-pounds of thrust respectively, and allows for future battery and charger upgrades. For more information, visit www.lowrance.com.
Simrad
Simrad’s new NSS evo 3S next generation family of multi-function displays are available in 9-, 12- and 16-inch models, allowing users to experience unprecedented levels of built-in functionality under all conditions using charts, radar, sonar and more. With a built-in GPS receiver and high-performance sonar, upgraded charting, support for HALO dome and open-array radars, as well as numerous Simrad autopilot systems, nearly all in-water activities are covered. Every NSS evo 3S system supports a variety of sport fishing and power boating activities.
SolarMAX IPS technology keeps everything in sight with ultra-wide viewing angles, even while wearing polarized sunglasses, in a variety of full sun and low light conditions. The all-weather screens have been engineered to withstand the heat of the summer sun and are optically bonded to prevent condensation or fogging within the display. It is now easier than ever to instantly access and control all onboard electronics via simple menus and customizable split-screen layouts. A 1kW CHIRP-enabled sonar provides exceptional bottom tracking and fish-finding performance, including support for dual-channel CHIRP transducers that cover multiple depth ranges in a single unit. Dual transducer ports offer the convenience of connecting multiple transducers to a single display. Improved processing power easily drives Active Imaging, providing picture-like views of fish-holding structures, and ForwardScan sonar, which offers the safest on-water experience with crystal clear views of the bottom ahead. Users can choose from any split screen combination with views in either 3D or Navigation perspective. The embedded charts also offer C-MAP Easy Routing, automatic route creation to avoid land and shallow areas. Additionally, Simrad NSS evo 3S is compatible with a wide range of third-party charts, providing an extended choice of optional mapping coverage. Seamless connectivity makes it easy to create multi-display systems and link displays to all on-board electronics. The new iMX 8 high-performance processor ensures engine and fuel monitoring in real-time, control of on-board sound systems and much more. Systems can easily be expanded by adding Simrad modules and accessories, including the S5100, StructureScan 3D, HALO Pulse Compression radar and fully integrated Simrad autopilot. Displays can be mirrored to compatible iOS and Android devices for access to charts, radar, sonar, engine data and more from anywhere onboard. Wireless connectivity also enables easy online software upgrades through any internet hotspot, giving access to the latest features and accessory support. Once you download the Simrad app, you can perform a number of cool operations, from device registration and manual downloads to saving waypoints and favorite fishing spots, accessible both on and off the water.
Also new for the 2021 season is the NSO evo 3S Glass Bridge display MFDs. Available in 24-, 19- and 16-inch models, the NSO evo 3S Glass Bridge can be purchased as a system pack or as a standalone display. System packs include a display, GPS, keypad and accessories. For more information, visit www.simrad-yachting.com
SI-TEX
The new SI-TEX SP-120C Color Autopilot features a compact, rugged housing and bright full-color LCD display that can be easily viewed from a variety of different angles on open or enclosed helm stations. This makes the SP-120C and ideal autopilot option for a wide variety of sport fishing vessels up to 38-feet in length.
The SP-120C comes paired with SI-TEX’s powerful new precision nine-axis Gyro compass for quick course detection and steering control in changing sea conditions. The system can work with or without a Rudder Feedback unit depending on the installation preferences. The Virtual Rudder Feedback mode makes outboard installations a breeze. This pilot’s new color display provides navigators with a range of useful new graphic presentations, including a Rudder Angle Meter and Compass Steering Display. Its compact (4.1-inch x 4.1-inch) waterproof control head and bright color LCD display make the SP-120C an easy fit on any console or helm station, while providing clear visibility on enclosed or open vessels in a wide range of light conditions.
The SP-120C offers four steering modes: Manual, Auto, GPS Waypoint Steering (when interfaced with GPS) and Wind Steering, which steers to wind when interfaced with wind sensors for sailboat applications. The color display shows Compass Heading, Selected Heading, Rudder Angle information, Input voltage, and amperage simultaneously. For mechanically steered vessels, the SP-120C is available with a cable steering drive unit with built-in Rudder Feedback Sensor, and all necessary installation hardware. This configuration replaces the original cable helm with a heavy-duty helm unit with the drive motor and rudder feedback built in. This means that installation on vessels with manual or power assisted cable steering takes place in the helm area, without the need to run wires to the stern. The SP-120C also does not require a separate junction box, since everything simply connects to the rear of the control head. The SP-120C is also an ideal solution for a range of hydraulically steered boats using either a reversing pump or continuous drive unit, with or without a Rudder Feedback Sensor. In this configuration, the
SP-120C comes complete with control unit, hydraulic pump, nine axis rate compass and all necessary hardware for flush or bracket mount installation.
Also new for 2021, the NavPro Series MFDs are now compatible with Navionics Platinum+ cartography, enabling a wide range of advanced navigation, fishing and cruising features. New versions of SI-TEX’s NavPro 900 and NavPro 1200 MFDs will now feature unparalleled chart detail and advanced navigation features on their high-resolution 9-inch and 12-inch LCD displays. For more information, visit www.si-tex.com.
Garmin
One of Garmin’s latest introductions is the new GPSMAP 7×3, 9×3 and 12×3 next generation mid-sized chartplotters and combination units that are available with or without built-in sonar capability. These debutants offer a sleek and streamlined design, improved display optics and a robust feature set that seamlessly integrates into a Garmin marine system. Building on the legacy of Garmin’s flagship GPSMAP series, the next-gen MFDs offer enhanced resolution and increased processing power. Designed for a wide range of dash configurations, the GPSMAP x3 series features slimline design borders with edge-to-edge glass displays. The maximized glass design can be yoke, flush or flat-mounted and offers a reduced footprint. For superior clarity and sunlight readability, the GPSMAP 12×3 and 9×3 models offer high-resolution in-plane switching (IPS) touchscreens that provide consistent, accurate colors that can be seen from all viewing angles, even with polarized sunglasses. Additionally, the GPSMAP 9×3 and 7×3 models offer 50 and 60 percent more display pixels respectively, compared to previous models. For existing Garmin customers who want to upgrade to the new GPSMAP x3 series, a retrofit kit is available for easy installation. Offering nearly double the processing power of the previous generation, the premium power found in the GPSMAP x3 series significantly benefits all onboard sensors like sonar, radar, cameras, video and digital switching and enhances the user experience across the entire network. Fast and responsive, these systems reference 10Hz GNSS (GPS, GLONASS and Galileo) for accurate positioning and smooth speed as well as course over ground (COG) data. The increase in processing power also delivers Garmin’s fastest mapping capabilities, so there’s hardly ever a delay, even at high speeds.
The sonar combo versions (xsv series) offer built-in support for 1kW traditional CHIRP sonar so anglers can see superior target separation up to 1,000 feet below the boat. These new combos also have buit-in support for Ultra High-Definition SideVu and ClearVu scanning sonars featuring Garmin’s new high-contrast vivid color palettes, making it easier for anglers to distinguish fish from structure. The xsv models also support the full Garmin Panoptix all-seeing sonar product line, including the revolutionary Panoptix LiveScope real-time live scanning sonar. Transducers are sold separately.
Boaters can navigate with confidence and ease thanks to Garmin’s preloaded exclusive BlueChart g3 coastal charts and LakeVu g3 inland maps with integrated Navionics data and Auto Guidance technology. Garmin’s cartography brings unrivaled detail and convenience to users by blending the best content from both Garmin and Navionics to provide navigational aids, spot soundings, depth contours, tides and currents, plus detailed harbors and marinas. For the most detailed data, customers can also add or download BlueChart g3 Vision and LakeVu g3 Ultra for access to Garmin’s high-resolution relief shading that combines color and shadow for an entirely new level of detail to the ocean floor and lake bottom. This premium cartography now offers relief shading coverage for the entire continental U.S. coast line and more than 150 lakes, respectively. Like all other GPSMAP units, the powerful GPSMAP x3 series is fully network capable with NMEA 2000 and the Garmin Marine Network, making it easy to build a customized electronics suite, including sonar, radar, autopilots, instruments, cameras and more. For additional info, visit www.garmin.com.
Standard Horizon
Standard Horizon has introduced the XH40 Ultra Compact handheld VHF radio for 2021, which is an affordable 6W, ultra-compact, waterproof marine handheld transceiver. The diminutive design is the real deal and this mini-compact, about the size of a deck of standard playing cards, is easy to fit just about anywhere. It features submersible construction that meets the IPX7 waterproofing standard of 1 Meter (3.3-feet) for 30-minutes, and is fully floating when fitted into the optional SHC-29 flotation case (the ultra-compact case measures a mere 2.05-inches W × 3.74-inches H × 1.3-inches D). Selectable transmit power output includes three settings (6w, 2.5w, 1w) with a 600mW Loud Audio Output; the Preset key can be used to recall up to 10 favorite channels; plus the E2O Easy-to-Operate menu system is very intuitive and a dream to navigate. The Scanning operation and Multi-Watch (Dual Watch and Triple Watch) will allow you to quickly determine all of the fishing action on the “secret” VHF channels, plus the XH40 also features CH16/S Quick Access, NOAA weather channels with a weather alert function and it’s powered by a 7.4V/1850 mAh built-in Lithium Polymer battery pack. If the fishing is slow and you want to listen in on your favorite tunes, the FM broadcast radio receiver is a welcome bonus feature and it’s covered by Standard Horizon’s 3-year waterproof warranty
The HX40 comes with a very visible Dot Matrix display with a very clear and bright fully backlit display. The new E2O intuitive menu system allows easy access to all of the setup functions of the radio, making it easy to customize settings based on the preferences of the user. Because the HX40 is built better, it’s backed better. If your Standard Horizon HX40 ever fails for any reason including water damage during normal use in the first three years, Standard Horizon will repair or replace it free, without hassle or charges – period! If it fails thereafter in normal use it is covered by Standard Horizon’s flat rate service program. For more information, visit www.standardhorizon.com.
ICOM
ICOM has introduced the new M37 Handheld VHF for the 2021 season. The M37 is a high-powered, IP57 dust and waterproof-rated VHF handheld that is the perfect size, with large keys and an easy-to-grip case – plus it floats! Designed for commercial and recreational boaters, the M37 comes with 6 watts of power for maximum VHF communications range. The M37 includes all the great features in the M36, plus Icom’s exclusive Float’n Flash and a larger capacity standard battery. Mariners will appreciate the big LCD display and 700 mw of audio output. ICOM’s unique Float’n Flash feature helps locate the radio if it becomes submerged. AquaQuake, which is a function that clears away water from the speaker, and prevents it from becoming waterlogged when exposed to temporary submersion, rainwater or saltwater spray.
The new ICOM M37 is waterproof to IP7 standards and the 2350 mAh Li-ion battery will provide up to 12 hours of usual operating time on a single charge. According to the factory engineers, this translates to a standard usage profile of 5 percent talk, 5 percent receive and 90 percent standby time. A bigger LCD screen shows large channel numbers and status icons for easy readability. The channel history function is a great feature in an entry level marine handheld. This stores the last five channels used for easy recall at the press of a single button. Other standards on the M37 include a 700mW audio output, a low battery alert function, Dual/Tri Watch setting, instant access to channel 16 and the Call channel, plus weather alerts and the usual weather channels. For more information, visit www.icomamerica.com.
Vesper Marine
Vesper Marine, a leading manufacturer of innovative marine electronics from “way down under” in New Zealand, introduced a revolution in marine VHF last season with the release of Cortex. Completely redefining the VHF experience, Cortex is the world’s first radio with wireless touchscreen handsets, a built-in Class B smart-AIS transponder and remote vessel monitoring. Cortex is VHF reimagined and provides unparalleled safety by alerting boaters of collision risks, providing key information about the potential threat and making it easy to communicate with them. The touchscreen handset makes typically complicated functions easy to use. For example, touching a vessel onscreen and pressing “call” makes a direct DSC call. Cortex continuously shows crossing situations, navigation light sectors and even allows trial maneuvers while a boater talks on the VHF radio. Up to 10 handsets, either wired or wireless, provide up to 85 dBA of crystal-clear audio. A 10W speaker output enables louder audio and alerting even while handsets are turned off. Cortex includes dual-watch, favorite channels and one-handed operation via the click-wheel. Pressing the dedicated man overboard (MOB) button activates a track back mode on all handsets and marks the MOB waypoint on NMEA 2000 connected multi-function displays (MFDs).
Cortex is also a plug-and-play vessel monitoring system, combining built-in sensors and NMEA 2000 connectivity with free basic monitoring. Using cellular connectivity, boaters can view twice-daily updates of power, location, wind, depth, bilge, temperature and more on their smartphones. The Cortex Monitor Premium subscription unlocks real-time vessel status, alerts and device control for boat systems like refrigerators, icemakers, lights or heaters. Cortex will only get smarter moving forward and new features and capabilities are downloaded automatically to the Cortex Onboard App for easy updates via Wi-Fi whenever convenient. Cortex Onboard and Cortex Monitor Apps will be available for download for both iOS and Android devices. Cortex Onboard provides onboard monitoring and alert functionality on mobile devices, sending safety data and alerts directly to smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi. When away from the boat, Cortex Monitor provides position, sensor and anchor watch monitoring and alerts.
Engineered for marine durability with a submersible IPX7 rating, the wired H1 and wireless rechargeable H1P handsets feature a generous 4-inch Gorilla Glass multi-touch display. Wet and glove capable, the touchscreen is optically bonded for wide-angle and sunlight viewability, even in the harshest midday sun. The Cortex M1 is enclosed in thermally conductive plastic and is also sealed for an IPX7 rating. It includes an integrated no-loss splitter so a single VHF antenna can be used for Cortex and another VHF radio. All ports are galvanically isolated to protect from corrosion, electrical surges and ground loops. The Cortex M1 is also available separately and is a full-function Class B SOTDMA AIS that offers remote monitoring and control and is VHF-ready. Simply add Cortex handsets to access full VHF communication functionality or purchase the Cortex V1 package, which includes the M1 and H1 handset. Networkable via NMEA 2000, Cortex integrates with leading marine MFDs, sharing AIS positioning information and boat sensors. A five-channel input offers control and monitoring of sensors connected directly to the device for a cost-effective vessel monitoring solution. Visit Cortex at www.vhf-reimagined.com.
