The classic wired connection of the device to the PC via the COM port is good!
But now the modern chartplotter models have WiFi modules as well as NMEA multiplexers that can output NMEA to IP address and port via TCP / IP.
Wishing to add an Ethernet connection for live dates

Bump.

This should really be implemented.

@Admin any plans for this???

Hello guys!

I was thinking of the same and solved it this way:
I managed to find a software (HV Virtual Serial Port) that sets up a virtual com port able to connect and listen to an Ip-address. Now my Simrad wirelessly sends position, depth and a lot of another data to ReefMaster (the pc must be connected to Simrad wifi).

Haven´t though tested on water, but works on trailer very well :)

Any idea about the range?

No expert, but think like this.
The range depends on the characteristics of your pc and unit and possible obstacles in between them + eventually interference from other sources.
I would install some kind of wifi analyzer in my smartphone, have the phone connected to the unit and then take a walk. According to Google a stable connection would be possible down to -60..-65 dBm. Or just do some testing with pc.
The point of course is to have the pc/laptop in the boat, not to leave it at home :)