Collection: Plotter screens

Plotter screens: mapping at your fingertips

The chartplotter is the nerve center of your navigation electronics. Choosing the right model, compatible with your sensors and clearly displaying essential information, is crucial for smooth and efficient navigation. At Skysat, drawing on our experience in offshore racing, we guide you toward the ideal chartplotter, taking into account your specific needs and the constraints of your boat. Discover our carefully curated selection and expert advice for successful system integration.

choose the size and resolution of your plotter screen

Screen size and resolution are key factors in readability and the clarity of displayed information. A screen that is too small or has insufficient resolution can make reading maps and data difficult, especially in bright sunlight. The operating environment (enclosed or exposed cockpit, type of navigation) must also be considered.

• 7-inch screens: Suitable for small boats or as repeaters.
• 9 to 12 inch screens: Ideal compromise for most sailboats and motorboats, offering a good balance between size and bulk.
• 16-inch and larger screens: Designed for large units and demanding browsers, with optimal readability and the ability to display a lot of information simultaneously.
• Resolution (pixels): Opt for a high resolution (e.g., 1280 x 800 pixels or more) for a sharp and detailed image.

connectivity and compatibility of plotter screens

A modern chartplotter display must be able to communicate with all onboard instruments via standardized protocols. Compatibility with different types of charts and the ability to connect additional sensors (radar, depth sounder, AIS) are also important criteria.

• NMEA 2000: Standard communication protocol for navigation instruments, ensuring interoperability between different brands.
• SeaTalk NG: Raymarine's proprietary protocol, based on NMEA 2000, offering simplified connectivity with the brand's products.
• Ethernet: Allows you to connect multiple screens on a network, share data and connect external modules (radar, sounder).
• Chart Compatibility: Check compatibility with the marine charts of your choice (Navionics, C-Map, etc.).

key features of plotter screens

Beyond map display, modern chartplotter screens offer a multitude of advanced features: route and waypoint management, AIS tracking, radar overlay, autopilot integration, etc. Choosing a model with the features suited to your navigation program is essential.

• Radar Overlay: Displays radar targets directly on the map for a better assessment of the situation.
• AIS (Automatic Identification System): Visualization of surrounding vessels equipped with an AIS transponder, with identification and navigation data.
• Integrated sounder: Displays depths and bottom structure (if compatible with a suitable transducer).
• Alarm management: Setting up alarms for anchoring, drifting, proximity to danger, etc.

💡 Skysat's advice

Before choosing your plotter screen, map out your connectivity and functionality needs. A diagram of your NMEA 2000 network architecture can help you visualize compatibility and avoid unpleasant surprises during installation.