Garmin Echomap Plus 43CV With GT20 Transducer
Brand: Garmin | Series: Echomap Series | Model: 43CV | Our Score: 4.7/5
The Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv is a popular, most affordable, and reliable fishfinder and chartplotter combo for anglers and boaters, offering CHIRP sonar and preloaded maps for both freshwater and saltwater use.
Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv, weighing 1.6 pounds, features a 4.3-inch LCD display with a sunlight-readable combo and a GT20 transducer, making it lightweight and ideal for avid anglers and boaters.
The ECHOMAP Plus 43cv boasts built-in sonar capabilities, including the CHIRP traditional sonar, a sophisticated technology for the fishing and boating public.
In this article, we can see the key features, including ClearVü scanning sonar, detailed maps, and connectivity options, making it a top choice for enhancing water activities.
Specs of ECHOMAP™ Plus 43CV with GT20 Transducer
Dimension 4.0″ x 6.5″ x 3.1″ (10.2 x 16.5 x 7.9 cm)
Weight 1.6 lbs (0.7 kg)
Waterproof IPX7
Display Type QVGA, NP
Display Size 2.1″ x 3.7″; 4.3″ diagonal (5.4 x 9.5 cm; 10.5 cm diagonal)
Display Resolution 480 x 272 pixels
Mounting Options Bail or flush
Input Keyed
Accepts Data Cards 1 microSD card; 32 GB maximum card size
Waypoints 5000
Track Points 50,000
Tracks 50 saved tracks
Navigation Routes 100
GPS Yes
Has Built-In Receiver Yes
Receiver 5 Hz
NMEA 2000 Compatible Yes
Nmea 0183 Compatible Yes
Supports WAAS Yes
Lakevu (Inland) Yes
Tide Tables Yes
Bluechart G3 Yes
Bluechart G3 Vision Yes
Lakevü G3 Yes
Lakevü G3 Ultra Yes
Topo 100k Yes
Standard Mapping Yes
Garmin QuickDraw Contours Yes
AIS Yes
DSC Yes
ActiveCaptain® Compatible no
Power Input 9 to 18 Vdc
Typical Current Draw At 12 VDC 0.5 A
Maximum Current Draw At 12 VDC 2.0 A
Maximum Power Usage At 10 VDC 5W
Displays Sonar Yes
Power Output 500 W
Traditional Sonar (Dual Frequency/Beam) built-in (single channel CHIRP, 70/83/200 kHz, L, M, H CHIRP)
Clearvü built-in 260/455/800 kHz
NMEA 2000® Ports 0
Connections NMEA 0183 Input Ports 1
4-Pin Transducer Ports Yes
Features of ECHOMAP™ Plus 43CV with GT20 Transducer
General
We start with a compact and robust navigation device, designed for a range of environments.
It’s a gadget that blends size efficiency with durability, measuring 4.0″ x 6.5″ x 3.1″ and weighing only 1.6 lbs. Its IPX7 waterproof rating reinforces its reliability, making it a trustworthy companion in diverse conditions.
Display and User Interface
The heart of its interface is the 2.1″ x 3.7″ QVGA display, sporting a 4.3″ diagonal size.
With a resolution of 480 x 272 pixels, the screen offers clarity and energy efficiency. User interaction is streamlined through a keyed input system, and installation is versatile, thanks to bail and flush mounting options.
Storage and Navigational Capacity
Its storage capabilities are impressive. Supporting a microSD card up to 32 GB, the device holds up to 5000 waypoints, 50,000 track points, and 50 saved tracks. The ability to manage up to 100 navigation routes makes it a powerhouse for planning and tracking, making it suitable for extensive journeys.
GPS Functionality and Mapping
The device shines with its GPS and 5 Hz receiver, ensuring pinpoint accuracy. Compatibility with NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, and WAAS support enhances this precision. Ready-to-use inland LakeVu maps and tide tables add immediate value for navigators.
Expanded Mapping Capabilities
Adaptability is key, and the device offers it with support for a range of maps like BlueChart G3 and LakeVü G3. This allows users to customize their navigation experience to suit diverse activities, from sailing to trekking.
Energy Efficiency and Power
Efficient power usage is a standout feature. Operating within 9 to 18 Vdc, its low power draw (0.5 A at 12 VDC, max 2.0 A) and maximum power usage of 5W at 10 VDC, ensure sustained performance without excessive energy consumption.
Sonar Technology
For underwater exploration, the device’s 500 W sonar capabilities, including traditional sonar and ClearVü, are impressive. It’s equipped to provide detailed images below the surface, making it perfect for fishing and marine exploration.
Connectivity Options
The device includes one NMEA0183 input port and a 4-pin transducer port, facilitating seamless integration with various external devices and sensors. While it lacks NMEA 2000® ports, these connections still offer substantial utility.
What’s in the box?
- ECHOMAP Plus 43cv with LakeVü g3 for U.S.
- GT20-TM transducer
- Power/data cable
- Tilt/swivel mount with quick-release cradle
- Flush mount
- Hardware
- Documentation
Pros
- Intuitive interface and solid design.
- Easy installation and setup.
- Clear and easy-to-read display.
- Good-quality maps for popular waters.
- Compact size suitable for small boats.
- Affordable pricing, particularly during sales.
Cons
- Occasional technical issues like screen freezing and button malfunctions.
- Some units may have defective transducers requiring replacement.
- Limited map details for less popular waters.
FAQs on Garmin Echomap Plus 43CV
Conclusion
The Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 43cv with GT20 Transducer is a lightweight fishfinder and chartplotter combo, perfect for anglers and boaters. It features a 4.3-inch LCD display, CHIRP traditional sonar, and ClearVü scanning sonar for detailed underwater images. It includes preloaded maps for freshwater and saltwater use, a 5 Hz GPS receiver, and a waterproof rating of IPX7. With a storage capacity of up to 5000 waypoints, it’s easy to install and operate.
