Guide for Choosing the Best Marine Displays for Your Needs
If you’re in the market for a new marine display, you may be wondering what the best option is for your needs. With so many different types and brands of displays on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the factors you should consider when choosing a marine display, and we will recommend some of the best displays on the market for rugged and waterproof use.
Things to Know Before Buying Marine Displays
Before buying marine displays for your requirements, it’s important to consider the factors listed below:
Intended Use:
The first thing you’ll need to determine is how you plan to use your marine display. Are you looking for a display to use on your boat’s dashboard? Or do you need a portable display that can be used for navigation and other purposes?
Multifunction Display (MFD) or Marine Display:
MFDs are multi-functional devices that can include features like GPS, fish finders, and chartplotters. Marine displays are typically just for navigation purposes. If you need an MFD, you’ll want to look for one that has the specific features you need. If you just need a marine display, you can typically find one that’s less expensive.
Required Number and Size of Marine Displays:
You’ll also need to decide how many displays you need and what size you need them to be. This will depend on the size of your vessel and how much space you have to work with. If you have a larger vessel, you may need more than one display. If you’re just using your marine display for navigation, you may only need one small display.
Display Mounting and Installation:
Another important factor to consider is how you’ll be mounting and installing your display. Some displays come with mountings and brackets that make installation easy. Others may require more work to install. You may also need to purchase additional mountings or brackets separately.
Video Connection and Input Options:
You’ll also want to consider what type of video connection and input options you need. Some displays only have HDMI inputs, while others may have multiple input options, including VGA, DVI, and USB.
Touchscreen or Non-Touchscreen:
Some marine displays are touchscreen, while others are not. Touchscreen displays can be more convenient to use, but they may be more expensive.
Display Resolution:
Another important factor to consider is the resolution of the display. A higher resolution display will provide a sharper image.
Brightness:
Since marine displays will be used in outdoor conditions, it’s important to choose a display that is bright enough to be easily visible in direct sunlight. Look for displays that have a high nits rating, which indicates the amount of light the display can produce.
Sunlight Readability and Night Visibility:
It’s important to choose a display that you can see clearly, both in direct sunlight and at night. Many displays have anti-glare coatings and backlighting that improve visibility in all conditions.
Widescreen or Square Displays:
Marine displays come in both widescreen and square formats. Widescreen displays are typically better for navigation purposes, while square displays may be a better option for MFDs.
Marine Display Power Supply:
You’ll also need to consider the power requirements of your marine display. Some displays can be powered by a 12-volt battery, while others require a 110-volt power source.
Waterproof and Rugged:
Finally, you’ll want to make sure that your display is waterproof and rugged. Marine environments can be tough on electronics, so you’ll want a display that can withstand the elements.
Nauticomp’s Best Rugged Marine Displays
Now that you know what factors to consider when choosing a marine display, let’s take a look at some of our best rugged marine displays.
Glass Bridge Elite
The Glass Bridge Display is a multi-functional device that has eight source inputs. Each input can be easily controlled through the external GB Commander keypad. The user can either select inputs manually or set the controller for auto selection. Additionally, they have the ability to view any source in a PIP window and adjust its transparency using our unique “Alpha Blend” feature. The 12”, 15”, and 19” models are available in both Daylight and Sunlight variants, each with their own respective three-year limited parts warranty.
Signature II Series
The Signature II Series line of displays from Nauticomp provides an economical, rugged solution for both marine and military applications. These displays are newly updated with highly efficient LED backlight technology and include dim to red technology on all inputs. They also feature a slim case design that makes them ideal for use in more confined spaces, as well as a dial that allows you to easily control the increased dimming and brightness settings. The 12”, 15”, and 19” models in the Signature II Series come with a combination of six inputs, 1 DVI, 2 VGA, and three composites.
Genesis Series
The Genesis Series displays are tough and affordable for both marine and military purposes. With highly efficient LED backlight technology and two inputs (1 DVI & 1 VGA), the 15” and 19” displays are the perfect combination of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design. Nauticomp’s line of rugged displays contain dim to red technology and a slim case design that allows users to put a bigger display in a smaller space. They are also available with touchscreen technology.
Hammer Display Series
Nauticomp has always been on the ball when it comes to dependable, long-lasting technology. When it comes to delivering reliable, user-friendly information displays, the Hammer Series is the front-runner for government agencies. The toughness of the Hammer’s design, image clarity, waterproof feature, and sunlight readability are all in high demand by today’s technical warrior. These displays have a multi-backlight NVIS/sunlight readable option that makes life easy for today’s technical soldier. COTS or custom-tailored configurations are Nauticomp’s specialty—on tried and tested components.
Contact Nauticomp to Learn More About Marine Displays
Nauticomp Inc. has over 25 years of experience designing, manufacturing, and selling the best marine displays on the market. Our team of experts is always available to answer any questions you may have and help you find the perfect display solution for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how we can help you take your business to the next level.
