Setting Nmea 0183 lat/lon precision

SECTION THREE - Interfacing

2.At the PORT OUTPUT SETUP screen, select the desired port, then highlight the TALKER ID field.

3.Press the EDIT key, and highlight the desired ID.

4.Press ACCEPT key (or CANCEL to leave the option unchanged). The interfaced equipment will now receive the 0183 data in the specified talker ID.

For added versatility in communicating with a variety of other devices, you can control how precisely the 961 outputs its lat/lon information.

The choice you make is dependent upon the equipment to which you’re outputting NMEA data. The 961 conforms to the NMEA version 2.1 stan- dard, and is also compatible with version 1.5. Equipment typically benefit- ing the most from three and four decimal places of precision are electronic and pen plotting devices. However, most all older devices designed to operate with the original 0183, and other formats, can only function with two-place precision. Refer to the manufacturer’s instruc- tions for the number of digits of precision required for that particular device.

The factory setting is .XXX’ (thousandths of minutes). To change the lat/ lon precision setting:

1.From the PORT SETUP screen, select the desired port by pressing the PORT 1, PORT 2, or PORT 3 key. At the PORT OUTPUT SETUP screen, highlight the 0183 PREC field, then press the EDIT key.

2.Press the CURSOR PAD to select the following options:

•XX.XX ’ (lat/lon precision to two decimal places / hundredths of minutes / or 60 feet)

•XX.XXX ’ (three decimal places / thousandths of minutes / or 6 feet)

•XX.XXXX ’ (four decimal places / ten-thousands of minutes / or roughly ½ foot)

3.Press the ACCEPT key (or CANCEL to leave the option unchanged).

NOTE:

Setting the output precision to three or four decimal places doesn’t mean that the 961 will navigate with that accuracy. Position information can be output and displayed to four deci- mal places, but the user’s actual ability to navigate with such accuracy is limited by the accuracy of the GPS system; see Chapter 2 of the Northstar 961 Operations and Reference Manual (GM1700) for more information. Therefore, specifying more decimal places in the data output doesn’t necessarily result in greater navigating accuracy, but it may improve the smoothness of plotted data.

Page 52

961 INSTALLATION MANUAL Revision A

961X, 961XD specifications

NorthStar Navigation has long been a leader in marine navigation systems, and the NorthStar 961XD and 961X are no exceptions. These cutting-edge devices bring advanced navigation capabilities to both recreational boaters and professional mariners, ensuring precise positioning and enhanced safety on the water.

The NorthStar 961XD is equipped with a powerful GPS receiver that delivers exceptional accuracy, even in challenging environments. This is achieved through a combination of differential GPS (DGPS) technology and support for WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System). These features enable users to achieve positioning accuracy within a few meters, which is crucial for safe navigation in crowded or complex marine environments.

One of the standout features of the NorthStar 961XD and 961X is their intuitive user interface. The devices boast a large, high-resolution color display that provides clear visibility in various lighting conditions, including bright sunlight. The menu-driven system allows users to quickly access essential functions, making it easy to plot courses, set waypoints, and track routes on the go.

Both models support advanced charting capabilities, including the ability to display vector and raster charts. The chart database can be easily updated via USB, ensuring that users have access to the latest navigational information. This is particularly important for long-distance cruisers navigating through unfamiliar waters.

Another significant feature of the NorthStar 961XD and 961X is their integrated fishfinder capabilities. With sonar technology, users can locate fish, understand the underwater topography, and enhance their fishing experience. This dual functionality makes the devices versatile companions for both navigation and hunting for the next big catch.

Connectivity is another important aspect of the NorthStar systems. Both models feature multiple connectivity options, including NMEA 0183, allowing seamless integration with other onboard electronics such as autopilots, radars, and AIS systems. This enhances the overall situational awareness and safety of the vessel.

Finally, the rugged design of the NorthStar 961XD and 961X ensures they can withstand the harshest marine environments. With water-resistant housing and durable construction, these devices are built to last, providing reliable performance year after year.

In summary, the NorthStar 961XD and 961X deliver a winning combination of advanced navigation technologies, user-friendly interfaces, integrated fishfinding capabilities, and robust construction. These features make them indispensable tools for anyone serious about safe and efficient navigation on the water.