Collection: Black box units

Black box units: the remote chartplotter for multi-screen installations

A black box unit is a chartplotter without an integrated screen. It centralizes processing, mapping, network interfaces and video inputs in a remote processor, then connects to compatible displays, controls and modules. This architecture is designed for custom helm stations, multi-screen installations and Glass Helm systems where you want to separate the processor from the display.

This collection includes Garmin black box units intended for advanced navigation installations. They do not simply replace a standard multifunction display: they require a complete architecture with power supply, displays, controls, network, sensors, radar, optional fishfinder and video peripherals.

Two generations of Garmin black box units

The Garmin GPSMAP 9500 Black Box is aimed at recent high-end installations, with Garmin BlueNet network integration, HDMI inputs and outputs, external display and architecture suited to modern consoles. It is suitable for projects where you want to control a complete system from a central processor, with multiple screens and numerous data sources.

The Garmin GPSMAP 8700 Black Box targets complex Garmin installations with centralized processing, marine network, video integration and multi-screen display. It remains relevant for boats that need to centralize navigation, monitoring, cameras and onboard data around a remote processor.

When to choose a black box unit

A black box unit becomes worthwhile when the boat exceeds the needs of a simple standalone chartplotter. It is suited to helm stations with multiple screens, custom dashboards, flybridges, large consoles and installations where you want to distribute navigation data across several areas of the boat.

• Multi-screen helm: sharing of charting, radar, video and network data across multiple displays.
• Custom console: separate selection of processor, displays, controls and final ergonomics.
• Advanced integration: connection of radars, cameras, sensors, NMEA 2000 interfaces and compatible Garmin modules.
• Easier maintenance: processor accessible in a technical compartment, with screens replaced or added as the boat evolves.

Plan the architecture before ordering

Before choosing a unit, you must design the complete system: displays, power supply, protections, Garmin network, NMEA 2000 backbone, GNSS antenna if required, radar, fishfinder module, cameras and controls. Cable lengths, network adapters, ventilation and connector accessibility must be validated before installation.

A poorly planned black box installation often costs more than an integrated chartplotter and yields a less readable result. The right choice therefore depends as much on the boat’s architecture as on the unit itself: number of screens, Garmin network generation, video sources, radar needs, processor location and maintenance options.

Related collections

To build the full system, also consult the chartplotters, radars, navigation & electronics and Garmin collections.