BOAT STORE
Preview of Garmin’s new x3 plotters.
With a streamlined design, improved display and robust features, Garmin’s new GPSMAP x3 series mid-sized chartplotters and xsv combination units are designed for a wide range of dashboard configurations.
Available with and without built-in sonar, the 7 x 3, 9 x 3 and 12 x 3 versions, which feature edge-to-edge glass displays, can be bail, flush or flatmounted and offer a reduced footprint.
The 12 x 3 and 9 x 3 models have highresolution in-plane switching (IPS) touchscreens. These give accurate colours that can be seen from all viewing angles. Additionally, the 9 x 3 and 7 x 3 models offer 50 per cent and 60 per cent more display pixels, respectively, compared to Garmin’s previous models.
With nearly double the processing power of the previous generation, they are fast and responsive. These systems reference 10Hz GNSS (GPS, GLONASS and Galileo) for accurate positioning and smooth speed, as well as course over ground (COG) data. The increased processing power also delivers Garmin’s fastest mapping capabilities.
For existing Garmin customers who want to upgrade to this series, a retrofit kit is available for easy installation.
The xsv series sonar combo versions offer built-in support for 1kW traditional CHIRP sonar, so anglers can see superior target separation up to 1,000 feet below the boat. These have built-in support for Ultra High Definition SideVü and ClearVü scanning sonars featuring Garmin’s new highcontrast vivid colour palettes, making it easier for anglers to distinguish fish from structure.
These xsv models support the Garmin Panoptix all-seeing sonar products, including LiveScope sonar. Transducers are sold separately. You can navigate with preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts with integrated Navionics data and Auto Guidance technology. The cartography blends the best content from Garmin and Navionics. For the most detail, you can add or download BlueChart g3 Vision and LakeVü g3 Ultra for access to Garmin’s highresolution relief shading.
INTEGRATION
The x3 series is fully network capable with NMEA 2000 and the Garmin Marine Network, making it easy to build a customised electronics suite, including sonar, radar, autopilots, instruments, cameras and more.
Featuring J1939 connectivity for engine integration, including select Yamaha engines, they are compatible with OneHelm which brings together all the operations and capabilities of third-party devices on one screen. OneHelm integration simplifies control and customisation of the boat’s most crucial systems to one master source – the Garmin chartplotter.
Thanks to built-in Wi-Fi, it is easy to take advantage of the free Garmin ActiveCaptain app for access to the OneChart feature, Quickdraw and much more. Other compatible Garmin devices can be connected.
The GPSMAP x3 series will be available by March and retail for £899.99, £1,329.99 and £2,599.99 respectively. The xsv sonar versions have prices ranging from £1,069.99 to £2,769.99.
■ For more information, visit: www.garmin.com/marine