Equipment Weekly / On-board electronics: even faster, more powerful equipment

Make way for onboard electronics. Whether you're a sailor with routing needs, or a communicator who wants to share information, electronics meet the needs of boaters. Here are 3 products that are sure to be useful, yet easy to forget.

Garmin GPSMAP 16x3, more powerful, clearer

While the upgrading of multifunction devices does not always offer new functions, it is in terms of computing power, and therefore speed, that the evolution is felt. For example, it is now possible to ask a plotter to display much more complex maps, with a route tracing function that takes land into account, as well as to pilot more powerful probes giving live underwater images, just like on TV!

The new Garmin MFD features a high-resolution 16" Full HD touchscreen. This improves clarity and readability in bright sunlight. What's more, the GPSMAP 16x3's IPS screen delivers vivid colors at any viewing angle, even through polarized sunglasses. Starting at ?5,499.99 incl. VAT

Seatronic, a combined loader-converter

Seatronic offers a battery charger that doubles as a converter. Connected to 230 V at the dock, it recharges the batteries. Depending on the fleet, it charges at 45, 65, 70 or 58 A. The charger features 8 configurable cycles. It is compatible with all battery types, including lithium batteries. What's more, once at sea, the converter takes over, transforming the 12 V of the batteries into 230 V. Depending on the model, between 2,000 and 5,000 W are available. A good solution for limiting on-board appliances. From ?1,020 incl. VAT.

Digital Yacht, for a fast, low-cost Internet connection

For ultra-fast Internet connectivity on board, Digital Yacht's new 5G Xtream offers 4G and 5G connectivity, as well as integration with Starlink satellite systems for an excellent, cost-effective hybrid Internet access system on board. Depending on its position, the system supports 5G (landside) connection speeds of up to 3.1 GB, but also incorporates a 4G Cat 20 modem that offers connectivity out to around 25 NM with speeds of up to 2 GB. Offshore, we use Starlink satellite connectivity. The system uses three external antennas, including two high-gain vertical antennas and a separate compact dome antenna for higher 5G frequencies. On board, we connect via wifi to the 5G Xtream. These connection mode changes are seamless and automatic. Available at ?2,514 incl. VAT.

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