When the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) was founded, there was no GPS, no loran C, radar was a rare addition to a boat and the predominant tool of electronic navigation was the radio direction finder. A lot has changed since 1957. And the awards won by NMEA members bear this out. High definition radar, satellite TV, thermal imaging night vision, VHF DSC were all winning products at the recent NMEA convention held in San Diego.
From the press release: The National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) recognized top marine electronics products and companies at its 2008 NMEA Convention and Expo held in early October at San Diego, CA, with awards for outstanding products and service. The NMEA also gave special recognition to the top marine electronics technician of the year.
Recipients of the 2008 NMEA Industry Awards include the following categories and products:
•Autopilot: Simrad AP24/AP28 Autopilot Systems
•Fish Finding: Furuno NAVnet DFF1
•Radar: Furuno NAVnet 3D DRS Ultra Hi-Def Radar Series
•Communication: ICOM America M604 Fixed VHF
•Entertainment: KVH TracVision M3-ST
•Navigation: Furuno NAVnet 3D MFD12
Recipients of the 2008 NMEA Marine Specialty Awards are:
•Airmar Technology B164 Tilted Element Transducer
•FLIR Navigator II Thermal Imaging System
Recipient of the 2008 NMEA Manufacturer of the Year Support Award is:
•Furuno USA
Recipient of the 2008 NMEA Best of Show is: Raymarine’s G-Series.
Recipient of the 2008 NMEA Technician of the Year Award is: Steve Romin of Long Beach Marine