Admin Table of Contents
What is a chartplotter used for?
A Chartplotter is a device used in marine navigation that integrates GPS data with an electronic navigational chart (ENC). The chartplotter displays the ENC along with the position, heading and speed of the ship, and may display additional information from radar, automatic information systems (AIS) or other sensors.
Do I need a chartplotter on my boat?
The short answer is: no, you don’t need a chartplotter for marine navigation.
What is the difference between a chartplotter and GPS?
A GPS is a big system that is composed of satellites of the earth, which is transmitting positional locations to the receiver which helps in calculating the exact location using the satellite positions, whereas Chartplotters are just a simple system that shows maps and plot objects on that map.
What is a marine GPS used for?
Mariners and oceanographers are increasingly using GPS data for underwater surveying, buoy placement, and navigational hazard location and mapping. Commercial fishing fleets use GPS to navigate to optimum fishing locations, track fish migrations, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Do I need a chart plotter?
No you don’t need a dedicated plotter. We’ve managed perfectly well for years using a GPS and paper charts. (I can manage without the GPS but it’s hard work and a pain in the backside. )
Do you need a transducer for chartplotter?
Using a chartplotter does not require a transducer to be installed. The transducer is used for sending SONAR signals to display the bottom.
Can I use my iPad as a chart plotter?
The short and broad answer is yes, your iPad can replace a regular Chartplotter without issue. The long and more accurate answer is that it depends on your specific needs when boating. People use boats for a lot of different activities, this is why using an iPad as a Chartplotter might work for me but not for you.