HIGH TECH

It’s an over-used phrase, but the reality is that technology does indeed breed new technology, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the world of marine electronics.

The popularisation of powerful, touch-screen, multi-function displays (MFDs) over the past few years was more than a technological triumph in itself, it proved a crucial step in opening the door to all-new developments in related high-tech.

When these innovative MFDs came to market boaters were told they were just the foundation of entirely new ways of running the boat. It sounded like pretty heady stuff at the time, but now we’re seeing that bold claim was right on the mark – and could even have been a bit of an understatement.

With their large screen size, unprecedented resolution and vast processing power, these new MFDs really have allowed electronics manufacturers to bring all-new capabilities to market. This includes exceptionally detailed charts with satellite image overlays and depth band shading, remarkable sonars that scan 360° around the boat, and even autopilots that use a wireless remote to offer point-and-click heading inputs, so cruisers can make course changes without ever leaving