The Zeus chartplotter were convincing due to their sailing-orientated concept, but touchscreen operation was not everyone's cup of tea and not possible in all weather conditions. The new Zeus 3 generation is now set to remedy this shortcoming. The newly developed display with so-called Solarmax HD technology and an extremely wide viewing angle plays a key role here. It is available in four sizes from 7 to 16 inches and is designed to enable unrestricted use of the navigation functions under all circumstances.
The all-weather touchscreen should still work even when wet. In addition, all functions of the Zeus 3 can also be called up using a rotary control and a keypad, so that the plotter can be operated even in very harsh weather conditions. Both options can be used simultaneously, but the touchscreen can also be locked.
The plotter's processor performance has also been improved, so that the charts can be rebuilt at lightning speed while travelling or zooming. The centrepiece of the Zeus 3 is the B&G software, which features the practical Sailsteer display. Laylines, i.e. the approach courses, are displayed directly on the chart, and the Sailing Time function also calculates the time still to be sailed at the cross. In addition, the race panel offers a range of race-proven functions that were previously reserved for Grand Prix racing yachts, including the integration of B&G H5000 systems.
Thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi, internet hotspots can be used to download additional nautical charts, weather data or software updates directly to the plotter. The Zeus display can also be mirrored on smartphones, and the plotter can also be controlled remotely using a tablet. The predictive echo sounder Forwardscan is supported, as are broadband radar and AIS solutions. Autopilot operation is also integrated and the plotter works with Navionics, C-Map and raster chart formats.
The Zeus 3 chartplotter will be available from March 2017. Depending on the display size, prices will range from 1784 euros for the 7-inch model to 6544 euros for the 16-inch version.
Further information at www.bandg.eu
