Raymarine i40 Bidata Dual Depth/Speed Instrument Display

The Raymarine i40 Bidata is a dual-function marine instrument that combines the capabilities of a depth sounder and a speed log into one compact device. It delivers real-time information on water depth beneath your boat and your vessel’s speed through the water, along with additional data such as water temperature and distance travelled (log). The i40 Bidata can display two measurements simultaneously on its crystal-clear LCD screen – for example, current depth and current speed side by side – or any other combination of available data to suit the skipper’s needs.

Designed with convenience in mind for small sail and power boats, fishing vessels, and RIBs, the i40 Bidata features large 28mm digits and an adjustable red backlight to ensure superior readability both in bright sunlight and at night. Even in rough conditions or low light, the high-contrast display with oversized numbers makes it easy to catch critical information at a glance, enhancing safety and confidence on the water.

In terms of depth functions, the i40 Bidata includes audible depth alarms that can be set for shallow water and deep water thresholds. This feature is invaluable for alerting you when approaching hazardous shoals or when it’s time to drop anchor, preventing accidental groundings. The instrument also records the minimum depth encountered, allowing you to note the shallowest water on your route for future reference. On the speed side, the device shows your current boat speed through water and also logs your maximum and average speeds for the trip. A built-in log counter tracks the distance traveled (trip log and total log), and the integrated temperature sensor provides real-time water temperature readings – useful for fishermen and swimmers alike.

From a technical standpoint, Raymarine’s i40 Bidata is equipped with a SeaTalk network interface, enabling effortless integration with other Raymarine electronics and autopilot systems. The instrument can operate as a master display with its own dedicated depth and speed transducers attached, or it can serve as a repeater, displaying data from another source on the SeaTalk network. This flexibility means you can easily expand or reconfigure your instrument setup. With an optional SeaTalk-to-SeaTalkNG converter, the i40 Bidata can even be bridged into a modern NMEA2000 (SeaTalkNG) network, allowing it to share data with newer-generation electronics on board.

The i40 Bidata is engineered for efficiency and durability. Its low current draw ensures minimal impact on your boat’s battery, a crucial factor for smaller vessels or sailboats where power conservation is important. The device is built to withstand the marine environment with a robust construction and an IPX6 waterproof rating, protecting it against heavy seas and spray. This reliability under harsh conditions means you can trust the i40 Bidata to perform year after year in saltwater use.

Installation is straightforward and versatile – the i40 Bidata is supplied ready for flush mounting in a dashboard or instrument panel. A front-mounting gasket and clamp bracket are included to create a secure, watertight seal. For those who prefer bracket mounting, an optional trunnion mount kit is available, allowing you to mount the display externally and adjust the viewing angle as needed. The instrument’s controls are large and ergonomically designed, making it easy to cycle through data displays or adjust settings even in choppy waters or while wearing gloves.

Recommended Use: The Raymarine i40 Bidata is an excellent solution for owners of smaller boats and yachts who need to monitor essential depth and speed information without the space for multiple instruments. This combined display is ideal for day cruisers, coastal sailing, sport fishing boats, and other situations where simplicity, reliability, and clear data presentation are paramount. Thanks to its compact footprint (only 128 x 72 mm front size), the i40 Bidata can fit into tight helm stations or crowded instrument panels. For larger vessels or those requiring advanced integration via NMEA2000 and expanded features, consider the Raymarine i50 series instruments as an alternative – they provide similar data in a larger format with modern connectivity to suit more complex marine electronics systems.