Topic: Why no USB port?

[backlashed]

I was just curious as to why HB doesn't incorporate a USB port for updates, and storage. It would eliminate the need for a card reader for transfer, and if nothing else it would be great just for charging a cell phone.

[ITGEEK]

More money to build, and more expensive to buy.

[Bob B]

Trying to keep it water proof is probably part of the reason too.  The card door has a waterproof seal.

[EZM]

I agree - USB ports don't like water .....

[strawdg]

I agree - USB ports don't like water .....

Neither do card slots..... simply put it under the card door.... as far as cost, that one is questionable..... even my cheapest netbook has two USB ports along with HDMI for video output....

Straw

[backlashed]

USB technology should be getting pretty inexpensive, and the benefits should outweigh the additional cost. I can envision being able to transfer waypoints to a smartphone, then text them to a buddy in another boat to share a hotspot, or Transferring to a PC wirelessly by email. Easy direct connect to a PC, and much larger storage capacity on a thumb drive. Lots of potential there.

[ITGEEK]

Technology is implemented in steps.
These things are all possible in the future, but
not all at once.
There has to be a demand, and people have to
be willing to pay for it.
And the manufacturers must be confident that people are
willing to pay.
The top of the line unit (1198) now has a MSRP for about $2,800.
I'm sure it's no problem for people to shell out
an additional 3 or 4 hundred bucks for USB ports,
wifi, and Bluetooth.

[Bob B]

Technology is implemented in steps.
These things are all possible in the future, but
not all at once.
There has to be a demand, and people have to
be willing to pay for it.
And the manufacturers must be confident that people are
willing to pay.
The top of the line unit (1198) now has a MSRP for about $2,800.
I'm sure it's no problem for people to shell out
an additional 3 or 4 hundred bucks for USB ports,
wifi, and Bluetooth.

USB technology should be getting pretty inexpensive, and the benefits should outweigh the additional cost. I can envision being able to transfer waypoints to a smartphone, then text them to a buddy in another boat to share a hotspot, or Transferring to a PC wirelessly by email. Easy direct connect to a PC, and much larger storage capacity on a thumb drive. Lots of potential there.

Don't get me wrong....I think it would be a very beneficial addition.  (The original question was not who is in favor of the option, it was a question about why they weren't doing it.)

[ITGEEK]

The question was answered Bob:
Is there a big consumer demand for it, and is the consumer willing to
pay for it (on top of the already expensive unit price)?
Probably the answer to both questions is No.

If enough people want it, and let Humminbird know that they want it,
and if they are willing to pay the extra money for it, I'm sure Humminbird
will eventually add it.