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Whether you're thinking of buying your first ever GPS chart plotter, or if you're just want to upgrade your existing system, the CP500 from Standard Horizon may very well be just what the yachting enthusiast is looking for. Sporting a display that is easily readable from across the pilothouse, the CP500 has a full 12 inches of viewing area. The easy-to-read, high resolution LCD uses full VGA graphics, and a waterproof housing, so you'll avoid the constant "fogging" of other, lower-quality GPS units.

Though, as with most things in the yachting world, looks and waterproofing aren't everything. After all, what good is being dry when you arrive, if you don't know where you've landed? The Standard Horizon CP500 is more than capable of keeping you on course. It includes a 16 channel WAAS GPS receiver with 30 feet of cabling, allowing placement nearly anywhere aboard your pride and joy. With all 16 channels of GPS data available, the unit is accurate to within 10 feet! Coupled with the unit's ability to use C-MAP NT+ or MAX cartography packs, you'll be able to track not only where you are, but where you want to go. Check it out at your local retailer; they're easily found if you take a few minutes to browse the manufacturer's website at http://www.standardhorizon.com .

Of course, no matter how large your vessel, one problem we always have to deal with is limited space. So in the yachting tradition of efficiency of design, the CP500 truly comes into its own when multitasking. You can use the 2 video-in jacks to give you access to radar, or attach a camera to the unit, using it as a viewing station for other equipment. With the CP500's split-screen and picture-in-picture functionality, you're sure to get the most from your chart plotter.

All of this functionality and durability comes at a price; it starts at about $1600.00. I'm sure you've heard the age-old adage, "You get what you pay for." Well in this case it's absolutely true. I know there are cheaper units out there, but do you really want to see just how good your collision insurance is?
This and many other fine products are available from Standard Horizon, which has been in business since 1969. For the past 40 years, the company has been an innovator in maritime communications and electronics, and shows no signs of slowing down.

Learn more about this author, J. R. Lindamood.
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