FURUNO GP-500 MARK-2

The Furuno GP-500 Mark-2 (unit GPR-013) is a "historic" GPS navigator, renowned for its precision at the time when GPS was starting to become popular on pleasure boats. It is a robust device, designed to last, typical of Japanese manufacturing from Furuno.

Here are its main technical characteristics:

1. Reception and Accuracy

• Receiver: 8 discrete channels, parallel reception of 8 satellites.

• All-in-view algorithm: For stable and precise position calculation (accuracy of approximately 15 meters RMS).

• Acquisition time: Approximately 45 seconds (cold).

• Tracking speed: Up to 250 knots.

2. Screen and Display

• Screen type: Monochrome dot matrix LCD (240 x 64 pixels).

• Backlight: “Super-twist” screen with adjustable backlight for reading at night or in bright light.

• Displayed data: Position (L/L), speed, course (COG), course deviation (XTE), distance and time to destination (ETA/TTG).

3. Navigation and Memory

• Waypoints: Storage capacity of 200 waypoints.

• Routes: Up to 10 routes (each route can contain up to 10 waypoints).

• Event points: 20 instantly memorized positions.

• MOB (Man Over Board) key: Immediate recording of an emergency position.

• Calculations: Supports navigation by Rhumb Line (Rhumb Line) or Great Circle (Great Circle).

4. Connectivity and Power

• Interface: NMEA 0183 ports (for sending data to a radar, autopilot or plotter).

• Inputs: Can accept external DGPS (Differential GPS) data and Gyro/Log inputs to display drift.

• Power: Typically operates on 12-24 V DC.

Points to check (Second-hand sale)

As you own the unit alone (GPR-013) without accessories:

1. The Antenna: This model requires an external GPS antenna (often mushroom type) to operate.

2. Wiring: Furuno connectors of this generation are specific. The buyer will need to obtain the dedicated power/data cable.

3. The Internal Battery: Like any device of this age, the internal battery which stores the waypoint memory may require replacement if the device "forgets" the settings after switching off.