Compare And Contrast Paper Chart And Electronic Chart
Introduction
An essential part of navigation is the chart, which shows the position of the vessel and the surrounding area. In the past, paper charts were the only option for seafarers, but with technological advancements, electronic charts have become more prevalent. In this article, we will compare and contrast paper charts and electronic charts.
Paper Charts
Paper charts have been in use for centuries and are still widely used today. They are physical maps that show the position of a vessel and the surrounding area. They are made of high-quality paper and are printed in various sizes, depending on the purpose. The charts are updated regularly to ensure that they are accurate.
Paper charts have several advantages. They are easy to use, and seafarers can quickly get a sense of their location and surroundings. They are not affected by electronic interference, and they can be used as a backup in case of electronic failures. Additionally, paper charts are still required by law in many countries.
However, paper charts also have some disadvantages. They can be bulky and take up a lot of space, which can be a problem on smaller vessels. They can also be damaged by water or other elements, making them unusable. Finally, they require manual updating, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
Electronic Charts
Electronic charts are digital maps that show the position of a vessel and the surrounding area. They are displayed on an electronic device, such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Electronic charts can be updated automatically, and they can be customized to show different information, such as weather or tide data.
Electronic charts have several advantages. They are easy to use and can be customized to show specific information. They are also more compact than paper charts, and multiple charts can be stored on a single device. Finally, they can be updated automatically, which saves time and reduces the risk of errors.
However, electronic charts also have some disadvantages. They can be affected by electronic interference, which can cause inaccuracies in the displayed data. They also require electronic devices, which can be expensive and can fail. Finally, they may not be accepted by authorities in some countries, which can cause legal issues.
Conclusion
Both paper charts and electronic charts have their advantages and disadvantages. Seafarers should consider their individual needs and circumstances when deciding which type of chart to use. In general, electronic charts are becoming more prevalent, but paper charts are still required by law in many countries.
