New NavNet TZtouchXL Ultra-Sharp 22-inch and 24-inch MFDs and more
I really enjoy having a 27-inch monitor to work on in my office. I can actually see detail in the images used in features and columns. The same goes for when I’m at the helm. Large displays make it easier to read compass headings and depth soundings, and images shown in sonar, radar, and weather depictions have clearer detail. Furuno recently introduced two extra-large multifunction displays (MFDs) to assist with my aging eyesight.
The NavNet TZtouchXL 22-inch and 24-inch super-wide, full-HD (1920 x 1080 resolution) MFDs connect with all the features of the NavNet TZtouch3 navigation system. You can have one image on the screen for the greatest detail or have six windows with different images to capture the info you need at a glance.
The edge-swipe feature makes it really easy to access the information you need quickly. Swipe from the left to view or hide navigation data, from the right to see all of your shortcuts, from the bottom to view layer options with new organizational tools, or swipe down from the top to view your own customized Quick Pages. The displays come with 10 preset screen configurations or create your own displays in the six split-screen layout.
The larger displays have an edge-to-edge all-glass look that adds a bit of sophistication to the helm and, assuming the dash has the room, the new front-mount design provides side-by-side installation with no space between for a smooth, clean appearance. The TZtouchXL displays easily integrate with existing TZtouch3 networks or owners can build their own from the ground up for the perfect navigation suite, which includes radar, fish finders, sonar, including the CHIRP Side Scan, AIS and VHF options, autopilots, and weather tracking.
Speaking of CHIRP Side Scan, it was recognized as one of the most innovative electronic technologies at the 2023 Miami International Boat Show. The system operates on a lower frequency than others on the market and scans up to 750 feet on both port and starboard sides which allows boaters to see the shapes of bottom structures and fish targets in high definition without scaring fish away due to engine noise or boat shadow. It also detects uncharted bottom hazards that could damage the hull. This feature is a real advantage for coastal and offshore fishermen. Additionally, the CHIRP Side Scan isn’t limited to boat size so it’s beneficial for those looking for more detailed bottom information while cruising.
Furuno also strengthened the entire system with the latest 3.5 software update. The free software unlocks new features and enhancements to the NavNet TZtouch3 MFDs (and is also available for the NavNet TZtouch2 TZT2BB black box system with a software update to version 9.5). The new software introduces a revolutionary feature called Follow-It that allows users to leverage the Personal Bathymetric Generator (PBG) data from the DFF3D Multibeam Sonar. Follow-It instantly creates a constant-depth route so the boat can navigate a specific depth contour. With just a swipe and tap, Follow-It creates a white line on the PBG chart indicating the constant depth. Tapping the line allows the captain to transform it into an active route and send it directly to the NavPilot Autopilot in which the NavPilot will follow the depth route along a ridge or trough. This allows fishermen to keep their baits at fish level while trolling without constantly adjusting the reels.
Another notable feature in Furuno’s TZtouch3 interface is the Fish-It & Drift-It waypoint function that lets anglers create a temporary “Fish-It go-to point” and then find the correct starting point for the vessel to drift over the waypoint, which can reduce fuel consumption and time from maneuvering around.
In the version 3.5 software update, the newly refined Layers Menu (edge-swipe up from the bottom of the display) is more organized and easier with functions separated into logical tabs that bring the information together in a simple way without obscuring the screen. Tap on the tab you want to view or simply swipe left or right on the menu to access the information you need. Since the Layers menu is contextual, this tabbed interface is utilized for the Radar, Fish Finder, and even the DFF3D Multibeam Sonar screens.
Other enhancements in TZtouch3 version 3.5 include refined track management and expanded track memory. Tracks are easily named, color-coded, organized, or searched for by length, duration, or start date. Storage capacity is increased from 30,000 points to an astounding 100,000 points which helps reduce clutter from the hundreds or thousands of waypoints stored in the system. Control for the size, look, and feel of waypoints enable fishermen to more easily view the chart.
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The new software also connects to compatible Suzuki outboard engine models with the NavPilot 300 that unlocks features available on NavNet TZouch3, such as Speed Control, Route Smoothing, Auto Stop on Arrival, Point Lock, and SABIKI Lock.
Furuno does a good job listening to its customers and responds accordingly. From the 9-inch display to the new, extra-large 22- and 24-inch displays, NavNet’s TZtouch3 is one of the most powerful navigation systems available. furunousa.com
-by Jeremy Peters
