What is a chartplotter?

[SilverSog]

What is the difference between a sonar/GPS unit like my Lowrance 334c and a chartplotter? Is chartplotter just another name for mapping GPS?

Just wondering.

Thanks.

[Whoaru99]

Yes. Afaik, it's a device that uses GPS to show your position/course on a navigational map/chart.

[PerchJerker]

Chartplotter or plotter were the terms used before "mapping gps" and "background map" became common termininology. It was basically a blank screen on the gps (no background detail), and a symbol to mark your position, and a line that showed your trail, and your waypoints or icons. Same as what you see now on your mapping gps but no background map.