Introducing the Garmin GMI 40: A Sleek Upgrade for Your Marine Instrument Display
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Sailing Instruments Gamin

If you're looking to upgrade your helm setup, there is some exciting news. Garmin has just announced its latest generation of instrument display, the GMI 40 multipurpose marine instrument, bringing a fresh, modern look and some very welcome connectivity upgrades to your dashboard.

Key Specifications of the GMI 40

The new GMI 40 takes everything that made previous models great and refines it. Here are the standout specifications:

  • Sleek Display: It features a 4.3" (109 mm) diagonal WVGA IPS LCD touchscreen. The resolution sits at a crisp 800 x 480 pixels.
  • Edge-to-Edge Glass: This modern touchscreen display has an intuitive interface and edge-to-edge glass that complements the look of your Garmin chartplotters.
  • Comprehensive Data: It supports real-time wind, speed, depth, heading, engine, fuel data and more. You can easily monitor levels and optimise performance.
  • Customisation: Flexible gauge sets and page layouts let you place the data you need exactly where you want it.
  • Advanced Connectivity: The unit includes 1 Garmin BlueNet network port and 1 NMEA 2000 port. It also features ANT+ and Wi-Fi technologies.
  • Compact Footprint: The dimensions are 4.53" x 3.58" x 1.18" (115 mm x 91 mm x 30 mm). It weighs just 0.53 lb (240 g).
  • App Integration: You can pair your GMI 40 marine instrument with your compatible smartphone for software updates, product registration and more. This is managed via the free ActiveCaptain app.

How It Differs from the GMI 20

For those currently running the trusted GMI 20, the jump to the GMI 40 brings several notable improvements. The most obvious change is the user interface. You are upgrading to a sleek 4.3" touchscreen display, meaning navigating through data pages is far more intuitive than using physical buttons. The edge-to-edge glass also provides a much more streamlined, flush-mounted look at the helm, perfect for any glass bridge installation.

Under the hood, connectivity has seen a major boost. The GMI 40 adds a Garmin BlueNet network port, along with ANT+ and Wi-Fi technologies. This offers streamlined connectivity with compatible Garmin devices such as their QUATIX® 8 range of marine watches for full-system integration.

Worried about the upgrade process? Garmin has thought of that. They offer a GMI 20 to GMI 40 adapter plate. This makes it incredibly easy to swap out your old unit without needing to modify your existing dashboard cutout.

Sail Packs and Availability

If you are rigging a new boat or doing a complete overhaul, the new GMI 40 bundles offer complete sailing packages with multiple display, depth, speed and wind sensor options. Options include wired and wireless sail packs, catering to different boat sizes with 43 mm and 52 mm transducer choices.

The standalone GMI 40 marine instrument has an RRP of £599.99.

Whether you are a DIY installer looking for a straightforward weekend project or you just want a more modern, readable display on your next voyage, the GMI 40 is a fantastic addition or upgrade for your boat.