A chart plotter works in the same way as a GPS and it displays an overlay of a chart so you can see your course, speed and position in relation to hazards etc. It allows waypoints to be inserted and routes created, for example. A car’s satellite navigation and various smartphone navigational apps are all examples of chart plotters where you see your position on a chart, giving course and speed etc.
The GPS displays the range (distance) and bearing to a set waypoint. You can plot this directly on a chart using a plotter and pair of dividers. A more convenient way of obtaining a fix is to pre-draw a ‘web’ of bearings and