The GPSMAP 3006C and GPSMAP 3010C launch Garmin into the world of Marine networking, with plug-and-play systems that put GPS, weather, sonar, radar, and other important data at boaters’ fingertips.

Both units are waterproof and feature a sunlight readable, 256-color, 640 x 480-pixel VGA display. The screen size for the GPSMAP 3006C is 6.4" diagonal. These multifunction displays (MFDs) are powered by a high-speed processor and graphics controller for fast redraw of charts and weather graphics. They communicate with the Garmin Marine Network through a 100-megabit Garmin-proprietary ethernet-based network. The entire system is waterproof and completely plug-and-play—the MFDs automatically detect any and all peripherals once they’re connected. Boaters can connect a GPS antenna and one remote sensor directly to the MFD. Or, with the addition of the GMS™ 10 Network Port Expander, users can connect multiple MFDs and sensors to the same network. Each networked MFD can be configured independently.

A unique feature to the Garmin Marine Network is the addition of the GDL™ 30 weather data receiver. Through a partnership with XM WX Satellite Weather, mariners can—for the first time—access real-time graphical weather data for the United States directly on the GPSMAP 3010C or 3006C—without the need for a separate PC interface. For those wanting more than 120 channels of XM Satellite Radio along with weather data, Garmin also offers the GDL 30A—which provides a unique audio-channel interface on the 3010C and 3006C that allows for connection to an on-board stereo.

GPSMAP 3000 series products receive sonar data through the GSD 20, a proprietary "black box" sounder which offers 4,000 watts of peak-to-peak power (500 watts RMS) in a dual-frequency transducer. The Garmin Marine Network is also compatible with Garmin's new marine radar — the GMR 20 and GMR 40. Combining power, range and high-definition targeting with easy-to-use navigation features, these X-band digital color radars come with automated tuning and simple “plug-’n-play” installation.

The Garmin Marine Network also offers a unique network upgrade system. The user simply prompts the MFD to read the current software version of all components within the network, and writes them onto a Garmin data card. Then the user uploads this data via a PC to the Garmin website, where the newest software versions are downloaded to the data card. The entire system is automatically updated once the card is re-inserted into the MFD.

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