Garmin GPSMAP 8000 Glass Helm
Garmin recently launched its flagship GPSMAP 8000 Glass Helm series of multi-function devices, featuring a streamlined appearance, powerful new features and revamped user-interface.
In fact, the new MFDs do create an elegant and customised appearance, the new, flat-mounting option transforming the boat’s bridge into a glass helm. The new series can also be installed by traditional flush mounting, providing a low-profile alternative.
“The GPSMAP 8000 Glass Helm series features the ultimate in simplicity, ease-of-use, power and speed,” said Garmin Australasia’s Ian Edwards. “Incorporating the look and feel of a glass helm into the marine industry, the series provides a beautiful centrepiece while delivering the most important features and capabilities to the user.”
The 8000 series is available in 8in SVGA (super video graphics array), and 12in and 15in XGA (extended graphics array) multi-touch, pinch-to-zoom MFDs. The new series has a lower profile than previous MFDs and can fit into a pre-existing space where previous units were installed, says Garmin, the 12in and 15in models being 30 and 32 per cent thinner respectively.
Garmin added the refreshed interface has been streamlined to access the most important menus and settings, and provides a more intuitive and accessible experience for the user.
A valuable new feature, we’re told, is SmartMode station control, where the mariner can customise numerous preset modes based on various activities, synchronising all displays to show the most desirable screens for a particular activity.
With the ability to utilise Garmin’s high-sensitivity 10Hz GPS/GLONASS external receiver, the 8000 series is claimed to update position and heading 10 times per second, providing “significantly smoother” on-screen navigation. “This GPS receiver dramatically improves the ability to mark and navigate to a waypoint and also allows for boat movement to be crisp and fluid on screen,” said Garmin.
“Steering with autopilot has never been easier with new on-screen autopilot controls,” the company continued.
Sold separately, is GRID (Garmin Remote Input Device), a remote device that allows for seamless navigation between an individual screen or multiple displays. GRID can be integrated into a captain’s chair for an ergonomic low-profile controlling solution.
Garmin GPSMap 8000 Glass Helm price
GPSMAP 8008 RRP $4999
GPSMAP 8012 RRP $5899
GPSMAP 8015 RRP $8349