Let’s Dive into Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183
The Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 promises to deliver accurate speed and distance readings to your boat without the need for a traditional paddlewheel sensor. This product from Clipper leverages NMEA 0183 data from a GPS or existing log to display information on a clear LCD screen. Having spent years wrestling with finicky paddlewheel sensors that foul with marine growth, I was eager to see if this offered a reliable, low-maintenance alternative.
My aging sailboat’s original paddlewheel log had given up the ghost years ago, and I’d been relying on GPS speed readings, which aren’t always ideal, especially in currents. I needed something that could provide both speed and distance information for navigation and passage planning. The promise of a no-moving-parts solution was immediately attractive.
Unboxing the Clipper Easy Log, I was struck by its simplicity. The unit is compact and feels well-built, though the black plastic casing is fairly basic. It’s definitely a functional piece of equipment, not a sleek, modern gadget.
I considered the Raymarine i40 Bidata display and the NASA Clipper Duet before settling on the Easy Log. The Easy Log stood out as a dedicated speed and distance display, and I was already using a chartplotter for depth readings, eliminating the need for a combined unit. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the lack of moving parts certainly appealed to my desire for a low-maintenance setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 on my 30-foot sailboat, connecting it to the NMEA 0183 output of my existing Garmin GPS chartplotter. The initial setup was straightforward, requiring only a power connection and the NMEA input. I tested the unit on a day sail in Puget Sound, navigating through varying tidal currents.
The display was easy to read, even in bright sunlight. The speed readings appeared accurate when compared to the GPS speed over ground (SOG) data. I did need to calibrate the unit slightly to account for leeway and the current, but the process was simple and intuitive.
There were no initial issues, which was a relief after years of struggling with paddlewheel failures. The constant and consistent display of speed and distance felt like a major upgrade.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 has proven to be a reliable addition to my boat’s instrumentation. There are no signs of wear and tear on the unit itself. The connections remain secure, and the display continues to function flawlessly.
Maintenance is non-existent; there’s nothing to clean or service, unlike a paddlewheel. I occasionally check the connections to ensure they’re still tight. This greatly outperforms my previous experience with paddlewheel logs, which required frequent cleaning and eventual replacement.
Breaking Down the Features of Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183
Specifications
- The Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 displays speed, trip distance, and total distance. It uses the RMC sentence from any GPS or plotter with an NMEA 0183 output.
- Alternatively, it can repeat sentences VHW and VLW from an existing NMEA log. This flexibility is great for a range of setups.
- The Clipper Easy Log is manufactured by Clipper, a well known brand for marine instruments. The color of the unit is black, blending well with most dashboards and instrument panels.
These specifications matter because they determine the compatibility and functionality of the unit. NMEA 0183 is a standard marine data protocol, ensuring that the Easy Log will work with a wide range of GPS units and plotters. The ability to use either RMC or VHW/VLW sentences further enhances compatibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 performs its job admirably, providing accurate and consistent speed and distance readings. The unit is reliable, and the display is easy to read in various lighting conditions.
The strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability; it just works. The only real weakness is that it’s entirely dependent on an external NMEA 0183 data source; without a GPS or existing log providing the data, it’s useless. It exceeds my expectations for a low-maintenance speed and distance display.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is adequate, though the plastic casing feels a bit basic. The unit is lightweight and compact, making it easy to mount in a variety of locations.
The design is functional and user-friendly, with a clear LCD display and simple controls. There’s a slight learning curve to calibration, but the manual is clear and easy to follow.
Durability & Maintenance
The Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 appears to be reasonably durable, though it’s not designed for extreme conditions. I expect it to last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning of the display and inspection of the connections. This low-maintenance design is a major selling point.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 comes with minimal accessories. It includes the unit itself and a basic wiring harness.
There are no real customization options for this unit. It’s designed to be a straightforward, plug-and-play display that integrates with existing NMEA 0183 equipment.
Pros and Cons of Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183
Pros
- No moving parts: Eliminates the maintenance and reliability issues associated with traditional paddlewheel logs.
- Easy to read display: The LCD screen is clear and visible in a variety of lighting conditions.
- Simple installation: Connecting to an existing NMEA 0183 data source is relatively straightforward.
- Accurate readings: Provides accurate speed and distance information when properly calibrated.
- Affordable: Offers a good value for the price compared to other speed and distance solutions.
Cons
- Relies on external NMEA 0183 data: Useless without a functioning GPS or existing log.
- Basic design: The plastic casing feels a bit cheap and lacks a premium feel.
Who Should Buy Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183?
The Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 is perfect for sailors and powerboaters who want a reliable, low-maintenance speed and distance display. It’s especially well-suited for those who already have a GPS chartplotter with NMEA 0183 output.
Those who should skip this product include boaters who don’t have a compatible NMEA 0183 data source. And those seeking a standalone log with its own sensor might find this unit unsuitable.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality NMEA 0183 cable to ensure a reliable connection.
Conclusion on Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183
The Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 offers a compelling solution for boaters seeking a simple, reliable, and low-maintenance speed and distance display. It bypasses the common failings of traditional paddlewheel sensors.
The price is definitely justified, especially considering the hassle it saves by eliminating the need for paddlewheel maintenance.
I would definitely recommend the Clipper Easy Log Speed & Distance NMEA 0183 to anyone looking to upgrade their boat’s instrumentation with a dependable and easy-to-use speed and distance solution. Ditch the paddlewheel and embrace the simplicity!