SIMRAD 33 and 34 series

Solution and policy regarding condensation.

Condensation on the back of the front glass has
always been an issue for marine electronics
installed in the open, some more and some less.

After having introduced the 33 series Simrad learned
that the problem accelerated, mainly because more
and more products were installed outdoors, but
also because the front glass was made from real
glass in order to improve readability and
durability. This situation was not acceptable for
Simrad and many solutions have been tested
including total sealing, ventilation, heating, anti
dew treatments and many more, but all solutions
proved to have unacceptable downsides.

Bonding – the solution to eliminate
condensation.
After intensive research and testing Simrad have
decided on a solution called bonding. Bonding is
the latest and most advanced cure for
condensation. The idea is to glue the display and
the front glass together in an advanced process.
The result is a display solution which totally
eliminates condensation as there is no air between
the display and the front glass.
The new bonded display solution will be
introduced in the new navigation products for the
2005 season: CX/EQ/DS33 and CX/DS34.

Policy regarding existing products.
Simrad’s policy is to stand behind their products,
but regarding condensation it has been a long
struggle for all of us, as there was no real solution
available which would cure the problem. First
now, with the bonding technology, Simrad are able to
offer a reliable solution to the customer.

Upgrade with bonded display.
For 34 and 33 color products, which are installed
outdoors and where condensation is a problem, we
will offer a free of cost upgrade (excluding freight) with bonded
display.

Quin Service comment.
It is stated that the changeover is for 'condensation affected' units only. This is not a recall or an opportunity to get a free new front and screen. The downside will be when the current models develop a keypad or chart drawer problem we only need to replace the front cover. With the bonded units it will also require the screen to be changed which will be costly. however we are yet to determine the procedures for such failures.

If you have customers who satisfies these requirements

please advise in order for me to order sufficient replacements.


Upgrade process.
The details of the process are presently being
finalized by Simrad and we will inform you as soon as we
are ready with procedures and delivery times.

Frank