A new key pad design makes the units exceptionally easy to use, says Simrad, with quick access to the main features via task specific keys; "chart", "echo", and "pilot" taking the user directly to the designated page whatever the unit is displaying.

Full dual station capability is possible via the Simrad High Speed Data Bus, which allows all the functions of the master unit to be duplicated on the second station.

The CP33 Chartplotter and CE33 ChartSounder incorporate a 14 channel GPS, which will automatically utilise the additional correction signals transmitted from high orbiting geostationary satellites from WAAS, EGNOS and MSAS.

Greater accuracy can also be obtained by using the builtin terrestrial DGPS, which pinpoints position within 1-3 metres.

The charting system runs CMapNT+ cartography, providing vectorised charts with additional information on tide stations, ports, navigational marks, lights and buoys.

The company says the software incorporates the latest Simrad chartplotting benefits, such as chart orientation for north up, head up or nav up. With nav up, the vessel is presented sailing up the screen while the chart changes with the heading.

Routes and waypoint can be plotted on the screen and plotting the present position as a waypoint can be carried out by a single key.

The dynamic internal memory will hold up to 50,000 points, which can be a combination of marks, waypoints, routes, lines and tracks. The memory can be saved to a Simrad DataCard and easily exchanged with another vessel or used as backup.

Simrad's Advanced Chart Management System (ACMS) has been incorporated for optimum presentation of the electronic charts and the system offers extended control of the relationship between the chart detail level and range.

Whichever scale is selected, the system will automatically present the most suitable chart available from the C-Map cartridges.

The ACMS ensures that a new chart area ahead of the vessel is presented instantly when the boat passes the centre of the screen.

The CE33 is a combined chartplotter and fishfinder and is, says Simrad, ideal for sports fishermen, commercial fishing or all round navigation.

Both the CE33 and EQ33 stand-alone Echosounder, have a 600watt transceiver allowing the fishfinder to search deep waters up to 800m (2,400ft).

Two frequencies - 50kHz or 200kHz - provide a sea bottom view, or a more detailed midview to check bait or nets.

Simrad says the Fishfinder/ Echosounder has many of the features of a full professional unit; A-scope to determine stock size and even single fish, white line to separate fish from the bottom and other obstructions, depth and fish alarms and a zoom mode. The company says its acoustic technology provides a perfect and detailed image for optimum fish finding.

These new CP/CE33 and EQ33 Chartplotter/Echosounders are waterproof and robustly constructed for mounting in exposed cockpits and flybridges.

Simrad Ltd. Tel: 01329 245100. Fax: 01329 245111.

Web: www.simrad.com