Re: HELP I NEED ADVICE
One problem with electronic charts is keeping them updated. Navigation markers are being changed and new bottom features are being discovered all the time, not to mention new editions of charts being published. To my knowledge, the only way to keep consumer grade electronic charts somewhat updated is to buy new ones every year. Notices to mariners (chart corrections) actually come out monthly in most countries so this means it is possible to miss out on important new information even if you do buy new ones every year.<br /><br />Don't get me wrong, I own and use a chart plotter (Garmin) and am very happy with it. It's not very easy to use paper charts on a 19' boat that does 30 kts and has no chart table or a compass that I could take bearings with. But you need to keep the limitations of your equipment in mind. If you haven't already, have a good look at the disclaimer that comes with these products.<br /><br />I'm not familiar with the software you speak of with over 8000 charts but I can't imagine keeping such a large inventory of charts up to date and I would question their accuracy. Most electronic charts are produced privately by scanning government produced paper charts and errors are made. <br /><br />Here in Canada, commercial vessels are required to have paper charts onboard, updated, and ready for use.<br /><br />I hope I didn't carry on too much and this information is useful to you.<br /><br />P.S. Perhaps some one with more knowledge than I can elaborate, but I believe the anttenaes that are made for laptops are not as accurate as those that come with chart plotters
