While loran has now been turned off, there are undoubtedly mariners who have a library of loran-based position data that they would like to continue to use. Now Furuno has developed a GPS unit, the GP33, that allows them to take advantage of that data.
From the press release: “Out with the old and in with the new” seems like an easy expression, but what happens when that old friend is your reliable Loran and all your best TD spots? When Loran went away earlier this year, panic set in for many, wondering how they would be able to get back to the many hangs and other points that they have accumulated over the years. With this in mind, we decided to come to the rescue by designing a new GPS Navigator that is not only easy to use, but will convert all of your TD numbers to GPS Lat/Lon. The GP33 uses its high-sensitivity 12-channel GPS Receiver and then enhances it with the Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS) to bring you as close to your Loran location as technically possible, making the GP33 your new navigational best friend.
The GP33 is packed full of features that make this compact unit an easy fit in your helm, becoming an integral part of your navigation suite.
- Sunlight Viewable 4.3” Color LCD Display – 700 Candela
- 12 Parallel channel GPS Receiver with 2 additional dedicated WAAS/SBAS channels
- 7 display modes including 2 customizable modes, including plotter, Lat/Lon, Highway mode, Compass Ribbon
- Fully NMEA2000 Certified with dual 12V/24V NMEA2000 (Furuno CANbus) voltage capability
- Integrated NMEA0183 & RS232 ports (simultaneous usage w/NMEA2000 port)
- 10,000 waypoints/mark storage with 100 route and 3,000 track points
- Contact closure input/external alarm output for external MOB pendant systems, external event switch input, or external alarm contact trigger output
- Optional “cover-up” bezel for simple, clean retrofit of previous GP3x displays (Coming Soon)
The GP33 is a cosmetic match to our NavNet 3D line of Chart Plotters and when flush mounted, it features the same faceplate thickness, making it look like part of the NavNet 3D family. You can use it as a stand-alone GPS Navigator, or plug it into an existing NavNet 3D NMEA2000 backbone to become part of a complete helm. The GP33 has a modest list price of $595 and is available through your local authorized Furuno dealer. To learn more about the GP33, we have created a Guided Tour Video that can be viewed at www.FurunoUSA.com/LearningCenter/Product-Guided-Tour-Videos.aspx. So don’t worry about getting back to your favorite Loran locations, simply plug your saved TD numbers into your new GP33 and you’ll be on your way!
For more information on the GP33 or Furuno’s full line of award winning marine electronics, contact: Furuno U.S.A., 4400 N.W. Pacific Rim Blvd., Camas, WA 98607. Phone: (360) 834-9300. Online boaters can also check out Furuno U.S.A.’s Internet Web site (www.FurunoUSA.com).