About auto-dimming mode

SECTION TWO - Installation

and doesn’t consider atmospheric conditions, Selective Availability, and signal interference, all of which affect accuracy. HDOP can range from an ideal value of slightly less than one, up to a poor value of 10 or more; any value less than two indicates excellent performance.

Lat/lon coordinates

On the CHART screen INFO BARS, the 961 displays lat/lon as degrees, minutes, and thousandths of minutes. To display this data, press the INFO key several times. After press the first INFO key, a second INFO key is dis- played, letting you display additional data on the second INFO BAR.

SOG and COG

You can display SOG and COG in the INFO BAR on the CHART screen, or on the 3-D STEER screen or numeric STEER screen. To display SOG and COG on either the STEER or 3-D STEER screens, press the STEER key once or twice.

SOG and COG readings result from ongoing measurements derived from the satellite signals; SOG speed is updated every second. You can set the 961 to display its SOG and COG readings more smoothly by setting the GPS speed averaging value up to 10 seconds. Increasing this averaging time, however, may reduce overall reaction time. For more details about GPS speed averaging value, see Chapter 14 in the Northstar 961 Opera- tions and Reference Manual (GM1700).

Loran-C TDs

The 961 also calculates Loran-C TDs from the GPS coordinates, and dis- plays them on the CHART-screen INFO BARs. For more details, see “View- ing loran TDs” in Chapter 5 of the Northstar 961 Operations and Reference Manual (GM1700).

If you don’t touch any key on the control head for one hour or more, its LCD screen automatically dims to about half its normal brightness (based on its current brightness), if required by the system. Pressing any key at any time automatically restores the display’s previous brightness level.

This function helps maintain the integrity of the display screen and reduce power consumption when the 961 is on for many hours at a time. It is still recommended, however that you keep the lighting level lower when you don’t actually need it.

Turning the unit off

The procedure for turning off a system with two control heads is slightly different than turning off a system with one head.

To turn off an entire system (both the head and the processor) with one control head:

961 INSTALLATION MANUAL Revision A

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NorthStar Navigation 961X About auto-dimming mode, Turning the unit off, Lat/lon coordinates, SOG and COG, Loran-C TDs
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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.
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