Jim Hendricks

Create extra space for accessories underneath your T-top. Many T-tops and hardtops offer room for installing a box on the underside, above and just forward of the helm. Known as an overhead electronics box, it is a convenient place to install a VHF radio, a second MFD or other marine electronics elements. You can also use the box to stash small items such as tubes of sunscreen, sunglasses or hats. A latching door on most boxes keeps loose items from blowing out while your boat is underway.

N2K allows for data to be shared across marine electronics. NMEA 2000, otherwise known as N2K, is a universal networking system that allows marine electronic units such as GPS, AIS, engine-control modules and more to share certain digital information back and forth. We talk about N2K a lot. Yet what are the elements of this network?

An ultra-fast USB charger will keep your devices powered up while on the water. Jim Hatch Mobile devices and laptops go everywhere and serve us well, even on the water. But once the device’s battery dies, we’re at a loss. An onboard USB-style charger is the answer, and if you’re the antsy type who can’t stand to be without a phone, an ultra-fast charger is even better. We found that it’s easy to install aboard a boat a USB fast-charger such as the Scanstrut Flip Pro SC-USB-F.