Chartplotter Slection

[Frayed Knot]

Looking for a chartplotter that I can hook up everything to at a later time (radar, wind gauges, ais, nema 2000, auto pilot, ect.).  I like Garmin and would like a touch screen 8" or 10".  Will be mounted at wheel.  Would also like to hook up a lap top for the cabin.  Some wire less would be nice.  Can spend $1,500.00 to $2,000.00.  Or am I out in left field?  Some input would be nice... Thanks,  Dick Martin

[rbrtfeld]

Dick,

There are many good choices on the market.  I went with a Garmin 740s with Radar, Garmin 300 VHF with AIS and Garmin GMI 10 and GWS gauges and wind sensor. They fit together as one unit vis NEMA 2000 and are a really nice looking as well. The 740s and the newer741s are a great value for the money and would allow you to add on as your budget allows. I shopped the internet for deals on my electronics and found the best deal I could get and got some of them from different places. I did however go with Raymarine X-5 Wheel mounted auto pilot that work great in low to moderate wind speeds. If you need any more information or have any question please let me know. If you go to YouTube and use this tag  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RE44itJhWTo 
 then go to the 3:10 mark you will see how I mounted them.  Take care and good Luck.

Bob Feld  SV RockStar