GPS / Chartplotter questions

[Roop]

I have the Lowrance 4000M for under $700 you get a big screen, software & hardwarer for custom mapping and back-up of your saved info -

Exclusive MapCreate™ Custom mapping software1 on CDs covering the continental U.S. and Hawaii (see Mapping Features segment)

One rewritable 16MB Multi-Media Card (MMC) memory card

MMC/SD memory card reader for PC with USB connector (parallel port connector optional)

Display:
Large 7" diagonal (17.8 cm), 480x350 pixel high-definition monochrome transflective LCD display - 168,000 total pixel resolution - for incredible picture detail and readability even in direct sunlight

16-level gray scale

Multiple full-screen and split-screen navigation charts and data display combinations

Innovative Memory Card Versatility:
Waterproof drawer below the screen accepts up to two compact, rewritable Multi-Media Cards (MMC) or Secure Digital (SD) memory cards2 that allow you to:

Record your GPS trip details - waypoints/events markers/trails/routes - for viewing on the unit, or loading to PC for archiving with MMC/SD card reader

Load custom electronic charts on MMC or SD cards for navigational display (see Mapping Features segment)

Mapping Features:
GlobalMap® 4000m features the all-new, built-in Lowrance background map with enhanced detail to include over 60,000 critical nav aids and 10,000 wrecks and obstructions in U.S. coastal and Great Lakes waters. Also includes new land-based detail such as metro areas, select major streets/highways and interstate exit services for the continental U.S. and Hawaii

Included MapCreate™ CD software1 lets you create unlimited, custom, detailed maps on MMC or SD memory cards for navigational display, and features unique, searchable database3 of over 700,000 Points-of-Interest to easily find/identify marinas, restaurants, airports, emergency services, and more.

GPS+WAAS Features:
12-parallel channel GPS reception with fast satellite lock-ons, precise tracking, and position updates every second.

Automatic WAAS reception for enhanced position accuracy to 3 m (under 10 ft) at select locations.

High-speed screen updates.

Mega-memory saves up to 1,000 waypoints, 1,000 event markers, and 100 routes (up to 100 waypoints per route)

10 savable plot trails with up to 10,000 points per trail

42 graphic icons to mark your favorite spots

37 map ranges - from .05 to 4,000 miles - with easy zoom-in/out control

Selective on/off GPS alarms: Off Course, Arrival, and Anchor

DGPS compatible; interfaces NMEA 0183

Comfort Features:
Internal back-up memory keeps stored settings and GPS data safe and accessible for years

Man Overboard feature precisely marks MOB location with special icon, and displays return distance, bearing, track, speed, and estimated time enroute

External speaker output for remote monitoring of GPS alarms

High-impact cover protects screen and keypad when not in use

Completely sealed and waterproof, even for use in harsh saltwater environments

Full one-year warranty

Dimensions:
Display - Diagonal: 7.0"/7.8 cm
Case (with Bracket) – Height: 7.3"/18.5 cm Width: 9.6"/24.4 cm Depth: 3.7"/9.4 cm