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Side-Power Thruster Touch panel $175; boat panel, $260 • 508/995-7000 • www.imtra.com The Side-Power, a bow thruster suited for boats 20' and up, has two new easy-to-use controls. On the touch-actuated model two arrows indicate which way the bow will swing. The other version features a chrome boat-shaped joystick; push its bow and your boat's bow swings in that direction. The Side-Power includes an internal timer that shuts off the bow thruster six minutes after the last use.
Chart Symbols & On-the-Water Guides $20 • 888/839-5551 • www.maptech.com These visual guides explain common chart symbols as well as how to read a chart. Topics covered include planning with GPS and paper charts; understanding water depths and bottom contours; recognizing landmarks and obstacles; understanding tides; knowing aids to navigation and rules of the road. The guides fold up like charts and are waterproof.
Deep Blue Marine BlueNet Mobile display, $389; sensor, $469 865/671-1000 • www.ascendmarine.com This system monitors speed, depth, and water temperature wirelessly using sensors that transmit data to the handheld Mobile Display. The sensors are housed in one through-hull unit. The system won't interfere with other onboard electronics. Add the Chain Counter ($329) to calculate the amount of anchor rode deployed, which is also displayed on the mobile display.
West Marine Spotlight $80 • 800/262-8464 • www.westmarine.com With 10,000,000 candlepower output, this water-resistant spotlight packs a lot of punch. It includes a 110-volt charging port, state-of-charge gauge, 12-volt charger, nylon shoulder strap, hands-free stand, and external battery, which can be used alone or with the internal battery. Switch to the 5,000,000 candlepower mode for less brightness or to extend battery life.
Kenwood Marine Audio Speaker, $149 • 800/536-9663 • www.kenwoodusa.com Kenwood has introduced new marine-grade audio components. The 120-watt, 6.5", two-way speaker offers all-weather construction, waterproof cones, and UV-resistant grilles. It's compatible with Kenwood's new CD receivers (from $249), which provide MP3 and WMA playback (select models), support an iPod or Sirius Satellite Radio, and feature marine-grade materials and a backlit LCD that's readable in all lighting conditions.
