Multifunction Electronics

Remember when you used to have three or four different machines to do all of the functions you required? You would have a radar, a sounder, and a chartplotter all on separate machines that could only relay information via a limited NMEA interface. While this is still a great way to go for boats with plenty of dash room or for those who want independent machines, there are a lot of functions that you can miss out on by not opting for a multifunction unit. Multifunction units can have radar overlay, which paints your radar image on top of your charts so that you can see how that chart data compares to real time data coming from your radar. You can also more easily mark waypoints when you find a hotspot with your fishfinder by marking your waypoint on the precise spot you made your find. Many multifunction systems now offer a weather service as well. This can save you precious time when fishing and keep you safe from storms by receiving data from XM or Sirius when subscribed to their services. The networked multifunction units also allow for you to connect an additional display so you can have one at the helm and another on the flybridge if you so desired. You can combine your data from other machines onto your multifunction system using the standardized interfaces such as the traditional NMEA and the new and improved NMEA 2000 (on select machines). These machines can do a lot! Selecting the correct components is vital to having a machine that meets your application, and we can help you with your choices. We know it can be confusing dealing with so many different options, so don't hesitate to give the experts at Consumers Marine a call to help you select the right multifunction product for your needs.

When fishing mid-water, use the GPS and bottom contours to position yourself. This frees up the Fishfinder to be focused mid-water looking at the thermocline and/or suspended bait. Break the habit of always needing to see the bottom on the fishfinder; you'll see more bait and catch more fish!

Having the right accessories can make all the difference. Add a heading sensor to your multifunction display with radar, and you can overlay your radar picture on your charts. This overlay instantly creates an easy reference and saves precious real estate on your screen!

Many of the multifunction units available today now comes with video inputs. Simply add a DVD player to your multifunction display, and you'll stay entertained on the water. See page 118 for marine ready DVD players.