Searching for new electronics for your boat can be daunting because of the wide range of choices. Some boaters know exactly which functions and features they want or are loyal to one brand only. Even then though, one company’s lineup likely includes several choices. Other boaters aren’t laser focused on specific features or brands and look for more information to help them select the right device for their needs. That’s where we come in.
Every year at Marine Electronics Journal, we survey electronics manufacturers about products they make for boaters. We ask them to name the one model in a particular category of boating electronics they consider to be their best. It’s not necessarily the most technically advanced or newest or the one with the most whistles and buzzers, but rather the model they rate highest in that category for one reason or another. Could be the functions and features it offers, or maybe it breaks new ground in maximizing effectiveness or utility, or maybe it’s the most popular as measured by sales to boaters. In some cases, it has proved itself over the years as the go-to device. We call the results the Best & Brightest Boating Electronics.
On the list are 21 categories of onboard electronics, from radars and fishfinders to autopilots and electronic charts. Over past weeks, The Mic has reported on the winners in separate categories. Last time we rolled out six of the best marine wireless devices on the market. This week we tell you about another seven.
The Rogue PRO DB is the staple of the Rogue Series of products and Wave WiFi’s most economical dual-band ethernet converting Wi-Fi transceiver. It connects to land-based hotspots like marinas/hotels or reach a friend’s internet broadcast across a mooring field or a visible Wi-Fi cafe up the hill. The Rogue models all primarily mount via 1-inch-14 threads but can vary to suite different types of vessels and applications. They can be used on sailboats, center consoles, sportfish, trawlers, motor yachts, and everything in between. All Rogue products are powered and connected by a single 12vdc PoE Cat5e cable for ease of installation and are low power/low draw so ideal for electric and hybrid vessels.
Böning’s B⋮CONNECT is a professional remote monitoring and control solution. You can access up to two years of historical data without being onboard. To get started, install the B⋮CONNECT Gateway on your vessel and connect it to the internet via 4G or LAN. The gateway communicates with your existing vessel monitoring system and transmits the data to the B⋮CONNECT Cloud Service. You can access this data from your PC, laptop, cellphone, or tablet. Fleet managers, marine equipment manufacturers and companies looking to offer remote connectivity to their customers can set up a direct account with Böning and manage multiple vessels from a centralized dashboard.
Whether you’re on the boat or in the water, the ARX Wireless Remote gives you the freedom to control your audio from wherever you choose. Featuring a compact, low-profile design and fitted with high bonding tape, the ARX Wireless Remote is quick and easy to mount in almost any location onboard for the most discreet and convenient placement. The ARX Wireless Remote can be paired with a variety of Fusion’s ANT-enabled products, including the award-winning Apollo series stereos, and is available in black and white models to suit a variety of unique boat styles.
Experience freedom and flexibility with N2KView Mobile, Maretron’s innovative wireless solution for marine monitoring and control. N2KView Mobile empowers boaters to access critical vessel information from their mobile devices anytime, anywhere. With its intuitive interface, users can effortlessly monitor key systems such as engine data, tank levels, and navigation information with real-time updates and alerts. Whether on deck or below deck, N2KView Mobile keeps boaters connected to their vessel, providing peace of mind and confidence on every journey. Enjoy the ultimate convenience and security of wireless monitoring with N2KView Mobile, ensuring a safe and enjoyable boating experience.
Designed to fit in the palm of the hand, the Simrad WR10 Wireless Remote provides complete boat control, no matter where you are on the vessel. The WR10 is compatible with Simrad autopilot systems and consists of a small, lightweight waterproof Bluetooth base with micro-C connections and pairings for up to four remotes. Offering a 98-foot range, the remote has clearly marked keys and an LED status light for fast and accurate autopilot access. A mode button allows boaters to toggle through pilot modes and two dodge keys are used to program turns in 1° and 10° increments. There is also a Pilot Standby button and a large Auto Key.
Wirelessly control all radio functions of the Standard Horizon GX2400 fixed-mount VHF with the interface of the RAM4X Wireless Remote Access Microphone. Using the SCU-30 wireless access point plugged into the back of the radio, you have the capability of syncing up to four RAM4X units. With an operating range of up to 65 feet, the RAM4X allows you to control all radio functions including DSC Calling, Position Polling, Group Calling and more, or use the RAM4X to intercom with the main station or between other wireless RAM4X units.
