CDs are also compatible with personal computers. They provide street level mapping detail-even giving you access to business listings and points of interest. Electronic Charts Electronic charts are digital replicas of paper charts. They are very convenient because they contain a large number of paper charts, sometimes 50 or more, on one cartridge. You can easily scan through the chart using your GPS or personal computer.
Electronic charts are, however, only an aid to navigation.
They are designed to facilitate the use of authorized government charts, not to replace them. Only official government charts and Notices to Mariners contain all the information needed for safe navigation. Electronic charts can be helpful when used in combination with official charts. Many GPS units accept electronic chart cartridges which are packed full of navigational information, yet physically smaller than a credit card. Not all units are equipped to handle the micro-charts, however.