Garmin GPS Systems

Garmin GPS today introduced a new line of big-screen multi-function displays (MFDs), designed for use in larger yachts and powerboats – the GPSMAP® 5X15 series and the GPSMAP 4X10 series.

The GPSMAP 5X15 series has a whopping 15-inch diagonal XGA (1024 x 768 pixel) sunlight readable touchscreen display. The touchscreen makes navigating menus a snap because the “virtual buttons” change depending on the function – and it also eliminates the need for “hard” buttons, a valuable space saver. Garmin offers two models – the GPSMAP 5015 with an enhanced worldwide satellite imagery basemap; and the GPSMAP 5215, which comes pre-loaded with highly detailed U.S. coastal charts and Explorer Charts for the Bahamas.

The GPSMAP 4X10 features a 10.4-inch diagonal SVGA (800 x 600 pixel) sunlight readable display with a conventional alphanumeric keypad and a row of soft keys for easy data input. Within this family, Garmin offers the GPSMAP 4010, with an enhanced worldwide satellite imagery basemap to enhance the standard vector chart format; and the GPSMAP 4210, which comes pre-loaded with highly detailed U.S. coastal charts and Explorer Charts for the Bahamas.

These new MFDs feature Garmin’s revolutionary new user interface that lets boaters intuitively see and select the information they want, while eliminating the clutter they don’t – all with fewer button pushes. All new units also feature a sophisticated and elegant “flat-screen” physical design that compliments today’s modern boats.

All of the new units are fully network compatible with the Garmin Marine Network™, a system that combines Garmin GPS, radar, autopilot, XM WX Satellite Weather, sonar, and other sensors for unparalleled situational awareness. All 5X15 and 4X10 series units employ the industry-standard NMEA 2000 interface. For maximum expandability, these new units have three built-in network ports, four NMEA 0183 inputs, two NMEA 0183 outputs, one NMEA 2000 port, two video inputs for onboard cameras, and one PC monitor video output.

For even greater capabilities, boaters can load the new MFDs with BlueChart® g2 Vision™ technology – conveniently available on a pre-programmed SD card. In addition to high-res satellite imagery, g2 Vision features true “mariner’s eye view” above water or a “fish eye” underwater perspective – both in three dimensions. The g2 Vision data card also enables auto guidance technology on compatible units – searching all the chart attributes to suggest the best navigational course. For help in navigating tricky harbors and channels – or locating marinas and resorts – g2 Vision cards offer a growing database of aerial reference photos. BlueChart g2 Vision capabilities are only available when the optional card is loaded in a compatible chartplotter.

The GPSMAP 5X15 and GPSMAP 4X10 family of MFDs will be available in March 2008. Visit www.garmin.com for more information and pricing.