Multifunction displays with screen sizes between 7 and 12 inches are the most widespread - no wonder that this is the segment in which the fiercest battle between the three major suppliers is raging. After Raymarine's Axion Plus and Navico's Zeus 3s, it was only a matter of time before Garmin followed suit and presented a new generation of plotters. The update recipe is the same as for the competition: better displays and more computing power should make the devices attractive and future-proof.
The resolution of the 7- and 9-inch GPSmap 723 and GPSmap 923 models has been increased by around 60 per cent. The GPSmap 923 and 1223 also offer an IPS touchscreen with a wide viewing angle and optimum readability in sunlight. According to the manufacturer, the colours should also be displayed correctly with polarised sunglasses. For existing Garmin customers who wish to upgrade to a model from the new GPSmap device series, suitable conversion kits are available for easy installation in the existing mounting cut-out.
Garmin's own BlueChart G3 system can be used as map material, offering autorouting among other things. NMEA0183, NMEA2000 and ANT interfaces are available for communication with the on-board system. The plotters are also equipped with W-Lan.
The new GPSmap 723, 923 and 1223 chartplotter series will soon be available in 7, 9 and 12 inch sizes. They will cost between 999 and 2899 euros. The xsv versions with integrated echo sounder will cost between €1199 and €3099.
Further information is available at: www.garmin.com
