Aqua Compact Pro Marine PC – Handy Size!

Thinking about adding a PC to your boat? Digital Yacht’s new Aqua Compact Pro PC really does fit in the palm of your hand! Space is always at a premium on board and despite its slimline 11.5 x 11 x 5 cm dimensions, the Aqua PC packs in a powerful 5th generation Intel Core i3 processor with exceptional graphics performance for the latest 3D charting and HD navigation programs.  It’s the perfect partner for applications like Maxsea TimeZero – even with radar and 3D overlays.

So why a PC on board?  The number one, compelling reason to add a PC to your boat’s navigation and communication system is amazing value. There’s no doubt that a dedicated chart plotter is ideal for use at the helm where it needs to be waterproof and compact.  But below decks, a PC can offer big screen performance at a very attractive price compared to a dedicated large screen multi-function display.  Of course, a PC and chart plotting software can also be your only electronic navigation device, just integrated to the GPS and instruments via a simple NMEA interface.

A PC also offers more powerful functionality than a dedicated MFD with the ability to install software for lots of applications from navigation to entertainment, email communications, weather and internet connectivity.  PCs are also up-dateable as new applications become available.

Any why not a laptop? They are simply not designed for the hostile marine environment and consume large amounts of power.  It’s a much neater solution to have a dedicated PC and display both in terms of functionality and reliability.   With some simple engineering, you can install a monitor to swivel between chart table and saloon so it can become an entertainment as well as a navigation device.

Aqua Compact Pro Features:

• The perfect solution for demanding navigation applications like MaxSea/Nobeltec TimeZero even with radar and 3D integration
• Direct DC 12V operation – no power hungry inverters or AC requirement and power consumption typically 20W
• 8GB RAM and Windows 10 operating system
• Built in 801.11AC wifi, ethernet and Bluetooth connectivity
• Dual video out (mini HDMI and Displayport) with HD5500 graphics and support for displays up to 4K for ultra high definition viewing
• Super fast and ultra reliable 160GB SSD
• 4 x USB 3 ports
• Easy mounting on to vertical or horizontal surfaces – even under-sling from a shelf

Digital Yacht don’t manufacture displays but there’s plenty available from 3rd party manufacturers.  We can definately recommend the AG Neovo range of displays – have a look HERE

How about interfacing?

Finally to make installation easy, we’re producing a version of our MUX100 fitted with a USB cable – with opto isolated NMEA inputs pre-configured for 4800 and 38400 baud and a simple plug ‘n play USB connection, it’s the easiest way to get the Aqua Compact Pro integrated into the boat’s navigation system.

And don’t forget our SmarterTrack 2016 Navigation Software which uses Navionic’s charting so you can share your plotter charts with a PC too – more savings!

The Aqua Compact Pro is shipping now.  Price £795/US$1295 excluding any taxes.