Best laptop GPS

Great idea. Let us know how it works out. I'm using Maptech software on a laptop connected via serial port to an old Garmin 126(?). Since it's hard to find a serial port on today's laptops, I picked up the BU 353 puck to use on my netbook. Seems to work well with my netbook in the yard...will move it to the boat this month. Combining this with a wireless mouse and a FB monitor will allow me to move from my Garmin 276C as a primary chartplotter on the FB.

Does anyone have input on monitor readability in sunlight? Are some models recommended as better than others in glare, contrast and brightness?
 
The true sunlight viewable marine monitors are thousands of dollars. I have two Furuno Black Box plotters and use a 300cd brightness Acer monitor up on the bridge. It is on a RAM mount, so can be adjusted to a variety of angles; it will wash out completely in any kind of direct sun light; which has been an issue for maybe 20 minutes total in 3 1/2 years since it so easily adjustable. It folds down into a protected cabinet whose polarized lid provides some shading. Here's a pic; usually the monitor is at a 90 degree angle from what is shown, pointed at the helm. this set up has served us well for 8000 nautical miles up and down and around and through virtually the entire east coast

P1010032.JPG


Tony, good move getting MacENC. Their support is outstanding and you get free and seemingly constant upgrades for life; he is very responsive in trying to incorporate customer suggestions; it's almost like an open platform, except one guy does all the coding work for you. I use it as a planning tool and chart look up while I am traveling. I just personally prefer the interface on the Furunos for running the boat. Mine use Navionics Gold. On my "when I have more money than I know what to do with" list is a "real" marine monitor as discussed on another recent thread, but I have never felt an urgent need.

The MacBook's screen is worthless for use underway, even at the lower helm there is too much day light.

George
Hatteras 56 MY
Boston Whaler 130 Sport
 
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