Navico receives multiple honors at the 2009 NMEA convention

by Rushton Gregory Communications on 7 Oct 2009 Navico, the market leader in marine electronics for recreational boating, announced today that its innovative Simrad BR24 Broadband Radar, and Simrad AP24 and AP28 autopilots received awards at the 2009 National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) convention held in Fort Myers, Florida.

In a slightly different format than previous years, the BR24 was selected for the first ever “NMEA Technology Award” by an independent panel of experts organized by Boating Writers International (BWI). The traditional NMEA product award for the AP24 and AP28 was selected based on the votes of dealer members of the Association. NMEA awards recognize excellence in the design, performance and reliability of marine electronics products.

Recognized with the overall NMEA technology award, the Simrad BR24 Broadband Radar is the world’s first recreational marine Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radar, and represents the next generation of radar safety, affordability and ease of use. Combining straightforward installation, flexible antenna placement options, a 24 nm range and low power draw, the Broadband Radar is the clear choice for coastal and in-shore navigation. This NMEA award adds to a growing list of accolades bestowed upon the BR24 to date, including the 2009 National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) Innovation Award, Sail Magazine’s 2009 Freeman K. Pittman Award, and the 2009 EDN Innovation Award for “best application of RF design”.

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Awarded top honors in the Autopilot product category, the Simrad AP24 and AP28 are the premier autopilot solutions for both power and sailing vessels. The revolutionary autopilots feature enhanced auto-steering and seamless integration with all electronics including plug-and-play compatibility with the Volvo engine system. Offering the ultimate in simplification and performance, the systems boast state-of-the-art control functions, a crisp display and advanced SimNet networking.

“It is a true honor to receive not one, but two awards from the NMEA,” said Louis Chemi, COO, Navico Americas. “Our groundbreaking radar and unparalleled autopilot solutions are the result of Navico’s promise to shape the future of marine electronics. These awards are a testament to our commitment to continued innovation, exceeding customer expectations and providing revolutionary products that improve the overall boating experience.”

The Simrad BR24 Broadband Radar has a suggested retail price of US $2,099 and is compatible with the new Simrad NSE, and the Simrad NX40, NX45 and GB40 multi-function systems. The Simrad AP24 and AP28 have suggested retail prices starting at US $2678 and $3030, respectively. For more information on the Simrad BR24 Broadband Radar, Simrad AP24 and AP28 autopilots or the entire line of Simrad-branded professional-grade marine electronics, please contact 800-324-1356 (toll-free) in the USA or 800-661-3983 (toll-free) in Canada or visit www.simrad-yachting.com