PASSCODE PROTECTION

Over the past few years, the theft of MFDs and other electronics from boats has grown significantly, particularly in Florida and along the I-95 corridor. A 16-inch MFD can retail for as much as $7,000.

The trend toward flush-mounted electronics is a contributing factor. This installation makes it inconvenient to remove electronics from a boat for safekeeping. In the Northeast, many thefts occur while a boat is in winter storage, says Scott Croft, vice president of public affairs for BoatU.S., so theft prevention takes on even greater impetus this time of year.

To help stem the tide, two electronics brands—Furuno and Garmin—have added theft deterrents. Both now offer passcode functions, similar to those found in smartphones, on some MFD models to help discourage would-be thieves.

Furuno’s new TZtouch3 series, introduced this year, incorporates a four-digit security-code feature to unlock and start up an MFD.

For Garmin, a software update released last May allows the owner of a current unit the option to set up a six-digit PIN to unlock the screen for the EchoMap Plus, UHD and Ultra families, as well as the GPSMap chart plotters.

One caveat: If you activate this function, no one—including Garmin—will be able to access or reset the device if you forget the PIN. However, personal security questions built into the software can help you retrieve and reset the PIN.

Ultimately, without the owner’s passcode, the equipment is rendered worthless on the black market, ergo less likely to be stolen. It also helps guard data such as secret fishing waypoints.