Garmin GPSMAP 8700 Black Box

Garmin GPSMAP 8700 Black Box

Garmin GPSMAP 8700 Black Boxes are a powerful, customizable marine navigation computer that serves as the brain for a fully integrated glass helm, connecting radar, sonar (traditional, CHIRP, ClearVü, SideVü), autopilot, engine data, and multimedia, displaying them on compatible Garmin or third-party monitors. It allows for advanced network integration, data sharing, and features like Active Captain connectivity and Smart Mode, providing a centralized hub for comprehensive vessel control and situational awareness.

Garmin GPSMAP 8700 Black Box Key Features

• Centralized Control: A single black box unit manages multiple marine electronics, replacing separate chartplotters.
• Extensive Integration: Connects with Garmin radar, autopilots, sonar modules, FLIR cameras, FUSION-Link audio, and more.
• High-Performance GPS: Pairs with an external receiver (like the GPS 19x) for 10 Hz position/heading updates for fluid vessel movement.
• Customizable Displays: Works with Garmin or third-party touchscreens (sold separately) to build custom layouts with split screens and data overlays.
• Advanced Mapping: Supports detailed BlueChart g3/g3 Vision and LakeVu g3 maps with Auto Guidance technology.
• Network & Connectivity: Features built-in Wi-Fi for the ActiveCaptain app and NMEA 2000 for broad data sharing.
•  Data Sync: Syncs preferences and user data across networked chart plotters.

Garmin GPSMAP 8700 Black Box FAQs

• What is the Garmin GPSMAP 8700 Black Box ? It is a centralized marine processor that allows you to integrate an entire marine electronics suite, including sonar, radar, autopilots, and more, controlled via networked displays and the exclusive OneHelm™ system for third-party products.
• Does it come with a display? No, it is a "black box" system, meaning the processor unit is hidden, and you must purchase compatible Garmin GMM marine monitors or use third-party touchscreen monitors connected via HDMI and USB for display and control.
• Does it have built-in charts? It generally requires the purchase and activation of Garmin Navionics+™ or Garmin Navionics Vision+™ charts on a microSD card via a separately sold Garmin Card Reader.
• Can I view protected HDMI content (HDCP)? No, you cannot view High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) content. You must check the video source's manual to ensure HDCP can be turned off for the source.
• Can I use a third-party touchscreen monitor for control? Yes, the system is designed to work with third-party touchscreen monitors. Video data is sent over the HDMI connection, and touch data is sent over the USB connection. 
• What are the power requirements?  The device requires an input voltage of 10 to 32 Vdc. Ensure the power source is supplying at least 12 Vdc for proper operation.
• Do I need an external GPS antenna? The black box can pair with an external GPS antenna like the Garmin GPS 19x (sold separately) for optimal position and heading updates (10 times per second). If the device is mounted in a location without a clear view of the sky, an external antenna is necessary.
• Where should I mount the black box? Mount it in a location not exposed to extreme temperatures or direct submersion, with adequate ventilation. The temperature range is from -15° to 55°C (5° to 131°F).
• What should I do if I experience electrical interference? You can use the grounding screw on the housing to connect the device to the water ground of the boat to help avoid interference.