Howdy Ya'll
Raymarine has just lift the lid off their new entry level systems dubbed the "ELEMENT" series.
Available in 7" 9" and 12", These units are aimed at the Lowrance Elite Ti2, Garmin ECHOMAP, Simrad GO XSE, and Humminbird Helix range
And it does so pretty well from what we can see so far. The element is a step back to buttons only for raymarine with its Axiom and Axiom XL being all touchscreen and Axiom PRO being hybrid, This for what i can see is from the market calling for simpler user interface with their technology in that sector. though i think a combind touch/buttons always provides the best options for people. that said going back to Buttons only adds a degree of reliability and cost cutting that hopefully will manifest itself.
On top of that obvious one the big ticket items for the ELEMENT series is its new HV transducer, which..... you can say is the most complete all i one sonar available. High wide spectrum traditional CHIRP sonar, HYPERvision (megahertz imaging) side and down, and 3d sonar all in one. this is a lot of boxes ticked for the small boat operator.
And whilst the system does have the same quad core processor seen in its bigger brother to easily be the fastest entry level unit, the transducer doesn't feature a Ahrs stabilizer so only srolling 3d will be available and not GPS track.
The new ELement also introduces a new operating system dubbed Lighthouse SPORT, you could say this is a more streamlined for buttons system that makes things a little easier to operate
though what is new and nice is Raymarines own REALBATHY 1ft contour DIY mapping software "much like Garmins Quickdraw mapping. Having it built in makes DIY mapping crazy easier compared to the options from insight genisis etc. So... good move Raymarine.
Limited connectivity is available, Just NMEA2000 for external antennas, tank sensors, engine data etc... which... for the most part is all your ever going to connect on a system like this. so.. no worries there
So there you go. a new option for entry level and simple stand alone systems.
Press release below
We are excited to announce a completely new line of Sonar/GPS navigation displays from Raymarine. Designed for anglers that want to stay one step ahead of the game, the new Element line features our new HyperVision™ 1.2 megahertz sonar technology, quad-core performance, and our new LightHouse Sport operating system.
Element Sonar: Turn Up the Resolution
With an unprecedented built-in 6-channel sonar, Element delivers the sharpest view of the underwater world. HyperVision™ 1.2 megahertz super-high resolution CHIRP technology takes DownVision, SideVision, and RealVison 3D sonar to the next level of precision imaging and fish identification, letting anglers identify structures, vegetation, and fish with life-like clarity.
Element Simplicity: New LightHouse Sport OS
Element is smart and easy to use with the new LightHouse Sport operating system. Simple keypad controls let anglers focus on the fish—not the owner’s manual. An oversized waypoint key marks favorite fishing spots and three user-programmable keys allow quick access to frequently used screen configurations.
Element Speed: Quad Core Performance
Element has unprecedented power in its category. Each model is powered by an onboard quad-core processor, delivering instantaneous chart redraw, smooth RealVision 3D imaging and fast response while underway.
Element Key Features
- Rugged, high-visibility sunlight viewable 7”, 9”, and 12” displays with built-in GPS/GNSS receiver
- Superior HyperVision CHIRP sonar technology achieves 3x the clarity of conventional side and down scanning sonars
- 1.2 megahertz HyperVision sonar provides super high-resolution imaging up to 125’ while 350kHz DownVision delivers photo-like imaging up to 600’ and SideVision out to 300’
- Built-in RealVision 3D sonar gives you the power to accurately identify the location of ledges, channel beds, and other contour changes
- Take 3D sonar to the next level with HyperVision mode for unprecedented 3D resolution and positional awareness
- New compact HV-100, all-in-one transom transducer, combines Hyper, Down, Side, RealVision 3D and conventional CHIRP sonar channels into one simple installation
- LightHouse Sport OS with dedicated keypad controls for simple operation, plus an oversized waypoint key for marking favorite spots
- User-programmable keys allow quick access to most-used configurations
- Fast quad-core processor allows instantaneous chart re-draw and continuous 3D rendering while running a simple, easy-to-learn user interface.
- Raymarine RealBathy™ personal sonar mapping and Navionics SonarCharts Live support
- Support for Raymarine LightHouse NC2 Charts with Fishing Hot Spots, Navionics, C-MAP and other regional charting options
- NMEA2000 networking for VHF, engine, tanks, and heading sensor integration
- Each Element display includes a trunnion mounting bracket, console mounting kit, power/NMEA200 cable, handbook, and mounting hardware