Hi Russf,
I had a full Simrad set up almost idential to yours, in 2002. I say almost identical since Simrad's were all built around the same software platform.
The radar is actually an Anritsu, a Japanese product, badged by Simrad. I have always found these radars to be top quality excellent. No issues there. Just a bit difficult to understand the 'translated direct from Japanese' manual!
However, when it comes to the chart plotter, beware. C Map has continuously developed their chart software, but Simrad hasn't developed the software within the chart plotter. That means that when using the newer C Map charts than say 2005, large areas show as very dark blue or black with no detail able to be seen at certain zoom levels. This is particularly frustrating since it happens close inshore just weher you need the detail.
In the end, I had the Tech Manager of C Map UK come to the boat to try all manner of fixes, but the bottom line came from Simrad when they stated exactly what the issues were - no software development for years, and the developers they had which could have worked on the product had long since gone.
For me, I am changing the plotter next season.
So, either use very old charts (I can give you some of the Engish Channel if you want!), or put up with no close in detail at certion zoom levels, or change the plotter and just use it as a radar.
Final point, (and apologies for the long drawn out missive!) if using MARPA, remember that if a tide is running, MARPA will not work accurately. Gets worse the stronger the tide and the stronger the wind effect. Reason? The Simrad is not 'sea-stabilised' since it is fed heading from a boat's heading sensor and speed from your GPS. This will therefore give eronious MARPA calculations. Use it as a guide, but not anywhere near accurate information! I sense a new thread starting....
