With a range of hand held GPS devices and a line of marine electronics that carry their tradition of navigation assistance to the marine market, Garmin is a name that is widely associated with GPS systems. They start at $129.99 and go up to $599.99. For faster map drawing and panning, Garmin also makes several chart plotters with QVGA color displays with high speed design. The chart plotters cost from $499.99 to $999.99. Along with Chart plotters and GPS navigation systems, Garmin also makes VHF marine radios with features that make them an easy fit to your marine safety package.
Garmin also makes the VHF 200, VHF 300, and VHF 300 AIS. The 300 AIS is designed for 35 foot or larger boats and monitors all AIS (automatic identification system) channels at the same time, ensuring you don't miss a transmission. The AIS 600 transceiver is also available. It is a devise that gives you the ability to transmit and receive vessel information to and from other AIS receivers in your area. The GPH 10, an easy to use autopilot system, is the first in a line of auto guided navigation by Garmin.
This devise has patented Shadow Drive technology that permits the skipper to maintain control when relying on the autopilot system. It automatically disengages if the helm is turned, so that the helmsman can then maneuver the boat. It automatically re-engages if the helmsman holds a steady course. You can obtain as many as three controllers for this autopilot system for autopilot capabilities from several places on board.
The TR1 Gold Marine Autopilot is available only in North America and puts autopilot on small gasoline outboard boats with motors up to 20 hp. It is truly the first autopilot designed for small boats trolling for fish. With the optional wireless remote you have control over steering and throttle from anywhere on the boat and it can be set to hold its position against current, wind and waves. Garmin also makes fish finders, sounders, radar, and marine networking equipment in its stable of marine electronics products. Starting in 1989, Garmin has been making navigation and communication devises based on a vertical integration, meaning that they design, manufacture and market their own products. In addition to marine navigation equipment, Garmin makes automotive, aviation, fitness, recreation (camping), and smart phone systems that bring GPS navigation to as many devices as possible.
