http://www.siriusxm.com/servlet/Satellite?c=SXM_PageDetail_C&childpagename=SXM/SXM_PageDetail_C/OpenContent&cid=1283872895343&pagename=SXM/Wrapper

There is PC compatibility with a reciever and special software.

You can check you specific Raymarine Plotter compatibility on their website.
http://www.raymarine.com/ProductDetail.aspx?product=4355

CAUTION: I have a Northstar Reciever (now subsumed by their corporate "shark") -- it is the same piece of equipment with slightly different firmware so it WON'T work with my Furuno. It also won't work with my PC. You will have to take your pick.

It's not inexpensive; however, with the options for wind, water temp, and real-time radar -- as well as your text weather, I really find it helpful.

You have to remember that it's not perfect, but it is helpful.

As for range; I know people in the Florida Keys that have coverage pretty far out into the nearer Bahamas -- but I'm not sure exactly how far.