With more and more integrated navigation systems coming to the market, there is a huge trend towards larger monitors that have split-screen functionality. Furuno recently introduced two new screens, a 12.1" and a 15" model.
"Called the MU series, these monitors will not look dark when viewed from any angle. And with a current draw of only 50 or 60 watts, respectively, these monitors will not generate a lot of heat, so they can be installed in flush-mount configurations."
Although EPIRBs are not required on private yachts, they do save lives. Here's a story on how they do that and what different systems are available. I'm sure it is worth your consideration if you sail in more dangerous waters. Don't forget to register them by the way...
"Some of the best models also include a Global Positioning System signal. The system tells rescuers the location, within one to three miles, of distressed boaters in the first signal burst rather than waiting two or more hours for several satellites to pass by and get a fix."
I've written before about Maptech's i3 solution, bringing together a radar, GPS, chartplotter and fishfinder. Motor Boating Magazine has a short review of it, and they highlight some of the nicer features.
"Maptech�s i3 is also a communicator with attitude. Using SkyMate satellite services, the i3 can provide e-mail functions with a twist. If you type a message using the on-screen keyboard, it can be broadcast in voice over a phone connection at the other end."
I've highlighted some more entertaining diving gear in the past, but Gizmodo now has a really good one... The Aqua FM Swim Snorkel Radio from Aquanaut.
"Even better, the Aqua FM snorkel uses no earphones, and instead uses bone conduction to pass the audio signal through your teeth right into your dome. And if you want to test the range of FM underwater, feel free; the radio snorkel is waterproof to 33 feet."
Of course you can read this weblog to learn all about marine equipment that might save your life someday, but now there's also a new three-part video series called "Taking the Search Out of Search & Rescue."
"Endorsed by the U.S. Coast Guard"These three videos - "Rescue 21," "Using Your DSC Radio" and "The GMDSS System" - cover other safety equipment as well, including EPIRBs, SARTS and Inmarsat satellite communications."
The early adopters of marine electronics can be found in the competitive fishing scene. Here's a story on a guy who outfitted his boat to the fullest extend. Like the article says: "he'll be at the helm of a boat with a control panel that resembles the Starship Enterprise"
"An impressive array of electronics -- everything from a laptop computer and wireless monitors to color sonar, a Lowrance LCX-104C, and global positioning system technology -- covers the dashboard of Samson's 20-foot Crestliner walleye fishing machine. As technological trappings go, not even Mr. Spock or Capt. Kirk could claim bragging rights over Samson."
Singer Billy Joel appears to be a marine electronics fanatic as well... Apparently he asked Raymarine to outfit his new 57 Shelter Island Commuter, named Vendetta...
"When commissioned in early fall, Vendetta will be navigated with Raymarine products. The uniquely curved dash will include three C-120 displays with brilliant sunlight viewable displays, ST290 instruments, Ray215 radio, 4kw Radar open array, and the new gyro-enhanced SmartPilot with 8001 control head."
Motor Boating Magazine has a buyer's guide for picking the right radar for your boat. They help you decide what kind of radar you should buy, and they give some examples ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. The models they discuss are JRC 1000MK as the least costly stand-alone currently on the market, Furuno's 1623, Simrad�s new CA series, the JMA-5100 Black Box series, Garmin's new 2- and 4-kW models, Maptech's i3 and Nobeltec. They mention Raymarine, Si-Tex and Northstar but more for their potential links to a PC.
"With nine manufacturers�six stalwarts and three new ones�offering more than 100 models, the choices can boggle the mind. There are stand-alone units for anticollision protection. There are multifunction units that link with chartplotters, GPSs and fishfinders. Some are configured as sensors for onboard personal computers (PCs). Others are black box models that connect to a sophisticated network and a large, sunlight-viewable monitor."
There are many technologies and gadgets that will assist you when trying to catch some fish. Barnegat's solution is one that will please non-fishers as well.
"Barnegat Light Marine Products introduces a light that mounts under the swim platform to attract marine life for viewing, fishing or diving. Its internal components are potted to prevent corrosion, and a 4-foot cable allows for electrical connections inside the boat."
MegaYacht has an article (free subscription required) on Altobridge's system that allows you to use your regular cellphone onboard, anywhere at sea... I've written about their solution two months ago as well.
"The Altobridge AM (Aeronautical & Maritime) Gateway Platform will enable mobile phone users to effectively roam from their usual home mobile network onto a ship-based network in the same way that they would if using their mobile phone overseas on a foreign network. Users will be able to use their own phone, their existing service provider and personal settings, as if they were on land. Calls made at sea will be charged to their normal phone bill."
With more and more integrated navigation systems coming to the market, there is a huge trend towards larger monitors that have split-screen functionality. Furuno recently introduced two new screens, a 12.1" and a 15" model.
Although EPIRBs are not required on private yachts, they do save lives. Here's a 
"Maptech�s i3 is also a communicator with attitude. Using SkyMate satellite services, the i3 can provide e-mail functions with a twist. If you type a message using the on-screen keyboard, it can be broadcast in voice over a phone connection at the other end."
I've highlighted some more entertaining diving gear in the past, but Gizmodo now 
Of course you can read this weblog to learn all about marine equipment that might save your life someday, but 
The early adopters of marine electronics can be found in the competitive fishing scene. Here's a story on a guy who outfitted his boat to the fullest extend. Like the 
Singer Billy Joel appears to be a marine electronics fanatic as well... Apparently he 
Motor Boating Magazine has a buyer's 
There are many technologies and gadgets that will assist you when trying to catch some fish. Barnegat's 
MegaYacht has an