Navico

How to make sense of ‘smart’ and connected boating products and monitors.

A clean single-brand helm electronics setup is now available under three different brands, and seems reasonably priced even for a relatively small boat.

While Doppler effect is a seasoned and fairly well known concept, I suspect that its sudden and intriguing arrival to marine electronics is going to effect change.

When I wrote about the StructureScan 3D announcement last July, I recall feeling a bit skeptical. But I was wrong. On-water demos have taught me that SS3D is much more than a visual gimmick.

I still think that many boaters don't realize the added safety, tracking, and navigation capabilities possible when GPS is integrated with portable VHF, though the Standard Horizon HX870 has been earning great reviews for a while.

Does Navico 4G radar (branded as Simrad, Lowrance, or B&G) have a "ridiculously broken MARPA" function? I've heard similar words from three different 4G owners in the last few weeks...

The competition around sonar burns hot on many fronts and the more the merrier, I say.

First, decide if an electronics refit is the right path for you. If your electronics are still working and you have a comfort level with them, then standing pat could be the best play. But if you think you may be missing out or would like to explore what’s available, follow these five steps to electronic enlightenment.