Entry-Level LCD Radars
Our field test of seven relatively inexpensive radar systems (average price around $1,500) reveals Furuno's 1712 as the top choice among monochrome displays. For color, we prefer the Simrad RA30.
Navman Tracker 5600 vs. Si-Tex ColorMax 6
The Navman 5600 screen has been improved, but the Si-Tex machine outshines it in most important areas, including sunlight viewability and price.
Networked Systems—Furuno vs. Raymarine
Two big names go head-to-head and both finish with identical ratings. Raymarine, however, squeaks past Furuno with a better warranty.
Networked Systems—Furuno vs. Raymarine
Two big names go head-to-head and both finish with identical ratings. Raymarine, however, squeaks past Furuno with a better warranty.
Battle of the Rechargeables
Our test of rechargeable AA batteries reveals that nickel- metal-hydride is the optimum technology, and Rayovac's 15-Minute Rechargeable I-C the top performer.
JRC PLOT 500F vs. Lowrance LCX-19C
We continue our look at combo units for the nav station. Here, JRC's Plot 500F gets the nod over Lowrance's LCX-19C.
Garmin 188C vs. Si-Tex Combo
In a two-on-one chartplotter/sounder shootout, a pair of Si-Tex units takes on a single Garmin combo machine.
Color Plotter/Sounders: Furuno’s GP-1850 WF and Simrad’s CE 33
Furuno's upgraded screen tilts the balance against the feature-rich Simrad.
Globalstar Satellite Phone—Round One
A 'learning round' with Globalstar last year will, we hope, prepare us for a 'playing' round this coming summer.
Globalstar Satellite Phone—Round One
A 'learning round' with Globalstar last year will, we hope, prepare us for a 'playing' round this coming summer.
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