Most onboard systems are lap tops, they are slightly more rugged, but that's their only good point.
An on board PC is much better. Mounted down below with its own dedicated power, its dry, protected, and isolated from voltage spikes.
You can have multiple monitors and pointing devises - including a waterproof daylight viewing LCD display at the helm.
You can out put Computer video to the vessel TV system so crew and guests can monitor vessel position and progress. You can import any video source, from DSS TV to observation cameras, and display the video simultaneously with a navigation program on the same computer monitor at the helm.
You can run CD ROM navigation programs. The PC can output steering data to the vessels autopilot and physically steer the boat.
You can run weatherfax programs to receive weather for your area. You can then print these images.
You can run programs that will receive Information directly from polar orbiting weather satellites. You can connect via land line, cellular, or satellite phone to send and receive E-mail or surf the web.
You can tie into our weather links page and download current satellite weather images.
In addition to all of the above specialty applications your PC can be used for the usual word processing, games and more.