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Headlining Garmin’s new entries in the Glass Helm line is the GPSMAP 8500 Black Box series ($5,999.99), for boats with helm space to accommodate the 15-inch XGA ($7,499.99), or the 17-inch ($8,999.99) or 19-inch ($10,999.99) SXGA multitouch pinch-to-zoom MFDs.
The remote black box allows for efficient system cooling, a larger screen size and simplified installation. The high-res monitors handle up to 1080p HD video feed. A new feature in the Glass Helm series is SmartMode station control, enabling customized display selections and synchronization of all displays on board.
Auto-dimming and power are also synced across displays. Coupled with Garmin’s high-sensitivity 10Hz GPS/GLONASS external receiver, it enables position and heading updates at up to 10 times per second for smooth navigation.
Website: www.garmin.com