Let’s Talk About Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only
The Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only is a compact and affordable solution for boaters needing accurate speed and temperature data. Raymarine, a leader in marine electronics, designed this instrument for easy installation and clear readability, making it a popular choice for both seasoned sailors and recreational boaters. This display provides essential information at a glance, enhancing situational awareness and improving the overall boating experience, but it’s crucial to remember the paddlewheel isn’t included.
I needed a reliable and space-efficient speed display for my small sailboat. The old, bulky unit was failing, and I wanted something modern and easy to read, without breaking the bank. The Raymarine i40 seemed to offer a good balance of functionality and affordability.
Upon unboxing, the i40 felt solid and well-constructed despite its compact size. The black and silver finish gave it a sleek, modern look, and the segmented LCD screen appeared clear and easy to read. It felt more substantial than I expected, which was a pleasant surprise.
I considered the B&G Triton2 Digital Display and the Garmin GNX 20 Marine Instrument, both excellent options. However, the Raymarine i40 won out due to its smaller footprint and simpler interface, perfectly suiting my limited dashboard space and basic navigational needs. The lower price point was a definite bonus too.
My first impression was positive; I was excited to install it and see it in action. It seemed like a practical and effective solution for my speed and temperature monitoring needs. I was especially eager to see how easily I could integrate it with my existing SeaTalk network.
Real-World Testing: Putting Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Raymarine i40 during a weekend sailing trip on the Chesapeake Bay. We experienced a range of conditions, from calm waters with light breezes to moderate chop and gusts. Installation was straightforward, thanks to the included SeaTalk cables and surface mounting hardware.
The display was remarkably clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight. I appreciated the large, segmented digits, and the ability to toggle between speed, temperature, and log/trip data. The i40 functioned flawlessly, providing accurate speed and temperature readings throughout the trip.
I didn’t need much time to get used to the interface; the buttons were intuitive, and the menu system was simple to navigate. Setting the units (knots, mph, etc.) was a breeze. There were no significant issues, although I did notice the temperature reading seemed to lag slightly behind actual water temperature changes.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Raymarine i40 has held up admirably. I’ve used it in all kinds of weather, from scorching summer days to chilly autumn evenings. The display remains clear and reliable.
The i40 has shown no signs of wear and tear, and the screen remains scratch-free. The buttons still feel responsive and the unit continues to perform as expected. Maintenance is minimal – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it needs.
Compared to my previous speed display, the Raymarine i40 is a significant upgrade. The clarity, accuracy, and ease of use are vastly superior. It’s a simple and reliable instrument that delivers exactly what it promises.
Breaking Down the Features of Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only
Specifications
The Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only boasts a 3.5-inch segmented LCD screen for easy readability. It measures 5 inches in width and 2.8 inches in height, making it compact and suitable for smaller cockpits. The display provides current, maximum, and average speed in Knots (kts), miles per hour (MPH), or kilometers per hour (kph).
The i40 also displays water temperature in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit, and log and trip information in nautical miles (nm), statute miles (M), or kilometers (km). The Raymarine instrument features a SeaTalk interface for seamless integration with other Raymarine devices. Its color is black/silver, and it is supplied with surface mounting hardware and SeaTalk cables.
These specifications are crucial because they ensure accurate and easily accessible data while underway. The compact size allows for flexible installation, even in limited spaces. The SeaTalk interface facilitates seamless communication with other Raymarine equipment.
Performance & Functionality
The Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only excels at its core function: providing accurate and reliable speed and temperature data. The speed readings are precise, and the temperature readings are generally accurate, although they can lag slightly. The unit is easy to use and requires minimal setup.
The main strength is its simplicity and reliability; it’s a no-frills instrument that delivers the essential information a boater needs. A minor weakness is the lack of advanced features like GPS integration or graphical displays. However, for its intended purpose, it works perfectly.
The Raymarine i40 meets my expectations and provides an excellent value proposition for boaters who need a basic speed and temperature display. It’s clear, reliable, and easy to use. It perfectly suits my sailing needs.
Design & Ergonomics
The Raymarine i40 features a simple, functional design. The black and silver finish gives it a modern look that blends well with most boat interiors. The unit is lightweight and feels well-built.
The large, segmented LCD screen is exceptionally easy to read, even in bright sunlight. The buttons are tactile and responsive, and the menu system is straightforward to navigate. There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Raymarine i40 seems built to last. The materials are robust and resistant to the harsh marine environment. With proper care, the unit should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe down the screen and housing with a damp cloth as needed. No special tools or procedures are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only comes with surface mounting hardware and SeaTalk cables. Note that the paddlewheel transducer is NOT included and must be purchased separately. The i40 is compatible with other Raymarine SeaTalk devices.
While there are no direct customization options for the display itself, the ability to integrate it with other Raymarine instruments and sensors allows for system expansion. You can connect it to a chartplotter, autopilot, or other instruments. The SeaTalk network offers a lot of flexibility in terms of system design.
Pros and Cons of Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only
Pros
- Large, easy-to-read display, even in direct sunlight.
- Simple and intuitive interface with minimal learning curve.
- Reliable and accurate speed and temperature readings.
- SeaTalk compatibility for easy integration with other Raymarine devices.
- Compact size for flexible installation options.
Cons
- Paddlewheel transducer is sold separately.
- Lacks advanced features like GPS integration or graphical displays.
Who Should Buy Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only?
The Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only is perfect for boaters who need a basic, reliable speed and temperature display. It’s ideal for recreational sailors, anglers, and anyone who wants essential navigational data at a glance. It is especially well-suited for smaller boats with limited dashboard space.
Anyone looking for advanced features like GPS integration, graphical displays, or wireless connectivity should skip this product. Consider models with more advanced capabilities. A paddlewheel transducer is a must-have accessory; without it, the i40 is just a screen.
Conclusion on Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only
The Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only is an excellent value proposition for boaters seeking a simple, reliable, and affordable speed and temperature display. It excels at its core function and offers exceptional clarity and ease of use. Despite lacking advanced features, it’s a perfect fit for those who prioritize essential navigational data.
At $239.99, the price is justified considering the Raymarine name, the instrument’s reliability, and its ease of use. It is a worthwhile investment for boaters who value accurate and accessible information while on the water. I would personally recommend the Raymarine i40 to anyone in need of a basic speed and temperature display.
If you are looking for a straightforward and dependable speed and temperature instrument, the Raymarine Instru., Speed, i40, Display Only is a fantastic option. Upgrade your boating experience today.