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New combined fish finder with chart plotter

6th May 2009

Sharp detail, split-screen functionality and user-friendly menus are just a few of the features of two new combined chart plotter/fish finders from Standard Horizon. The CPF180i, and the widescreen CPF300i LCD screens provide sharp, full colour images that are viewable in the most trying of conditions - direct sunlight.

For boats where space is limited, the 5in CPF180i offers a built-in EGNOS/WAAS/MSAS compatible 50-channel receiver with pin-point accuracy to within 3 metres. The memory can store 3,000 waypoints, 50 routes and 10,000 track points, all accessed through an easy-to-follow menu.  Each data window can be fully customized, and the screen can be split to show the chart and fish finder page simultaneously as well as the new Dual Chart Window feature that displays two independent chart scales side by side. Another key new feature is the ability to create and navigate an Olympic Route – this is a circuitous route with the same starting and ending point, rather than having to start a route at your vessel’s current position. Also for the first time, you have the option to run a Route Check, which will ensure that you, and your vessel, will not have any problems whilst navigating. This is done by the plotter, by reviewing the Route and looking for a range of hazards that may affect navigation. Dedicated MARK, ROUTE and FIND keys make using the plotter simplicity itself. It comes already supplied with an internal GPS antenna, although can be used with an optional external antenna if preferred.

For even greater functionality, the CPF180i has 1 NMEA input and 2 outputs, which allow it to be connected to a wide range of NMEA devices.  It is AIS enabled (when connected to a compatible AIS engine). When connected to a Standard Horizon VHF DSC radio, it can also be used for DSC polling. The memory features a DSC directory, which stores the positions of all the vessels polled, and the position of any vessel that has put out a DSC distress alert.

The fish finder utilises a 600W dual frequency output of 50kHz and 200kHz. There is also a 2x and 4x zoom, a sensitivity time control and surface noise filter to ensure crisp and accurate returns. A special software package interrogates the transducer (which is sold separately) and then fine tunes the fish finder to ensure optimal performance.

With all the same, industry-leading features, yet with a larger screen, the 7in CPF300i widescreen version will expand the functionality even further.

Packed with all of the features of the CPF180i, plus some additions, the CPF300i offers a high resolution display of 800x480 pixels and is supplied with a video input, so you could even watch DVDs whilst underway, or run a live feed from a docking or night vision camera. The video can be played using the whole screen, or in a picture-in-picture window, so you can still follow your favourite programme whilst updating the navigation.

The CPF300i uses a 50-channel WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS compatible GPS receiver, and also provides no less than 3 NMEA inputs and 4 outputs, which adds a huge amount of versatility. Under the LCD screen are a number of soft keys, which allow the quick selection of functions such as video, chart, waypoint list, navigation and highway. However, these keys can also be customised, so the user can choose between functions they may use more frequently, such as chart/compass, GPS status or NMEA data display.

Both the CPF180i and CPF300i plotters work with C-MAP MAX and NT+ cartridges, supplying a wide range of up-to-date navigational data in graphic detail.  Both have swivel mounts, which can be rotated to suit, and a unique three-year waterproofing warranty. A flush-mounting kit for dashboards is also available.

The current Standard Horizon range of marine electronics equipment includes the CP180, CP300, CPF180i, CPF300i, CP500, HX280E, HX500-Li, HX750E, HX760E, GX1500E, GX3000E, FF520 Fish Finder and VLH-3000 Loud Hailer.

Afloat.ie Team

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