Archive for January 2008

• 25 January 2008
  New Simrad NX40 and NX45 NavStations – Powerful, all-in-one Navigators for Power and Sailboats
  

  Navico, the world’s largest manufacturer of marine electronics for the recreational boating market, launched the next generation of Simrad NavStation multi-function units at LIBS 2008.  The two new NavStation products, the NX40 and NX45, have been engineered to lead boating’s growing trend towards powerful “information machines” capable of providing advanced chart plotting, radar, echosounder, camera images, instrument data, engine data, fuel data and more, in one easy-to-use display.

  The new NX40 and NX45 NavStation systems are designed to meet this need — today and in the future — for a wide range of power and sailboats 25-feet and larger.  The NX40 features easy-to-use controls and an 8.4-inch daylight viewable TFT colour display.  The NX45 provides all the same functions and operation with a large 12.1-inch high-resolution display.   These easy-to-read displays are ideal for presenting the detailed bottom contour data, land data and value-added information found on compatible C-Map MAX electronic charts.    Power and sail boaters alike benefit from useful data presentations including aerial photos of harbours and inlets, Dynamic Surface Currents, Tidal Predictions Flashing NavAids, Perspective View (a “birds-eye” view of the charts) and more. 

  Both the NX40 and NX45 feature a built-in high-performance echo sounder, so all the serious angler has to do is add a transducer from a wide range of choices.  This NavStation’s sophisticated internal sounder actually adjusts its transmit power (600W or 1kW) to match the connected transducer.  Sail boaters can also benefit from this built-in functionality — receiving useful depth, speed and temperature data by adding an optional DTS800 or DT800 transducer.  These NavStations can also be easily upgraded to provide advanced radar functions, with a choice of radar processors and 2kW radome, 4kW radome or 6kW open array scanners.

  Using Simrad’s NMEA 2000®-based SimNet data sharing network, these NX NavStation units can easily be interfaced with a range of compatible Simrad products, including instruments, autopilots and VHF radios.   SimNet also provides for simple integration with Simrad’s new AI50 AIS (Automatic Identification System), allowing boaters to monitor and track AIS-equipped vessels for improved safety on congested waterways.

  Additionally, non-SimNet based equipment can be easily interfaced with the NX40 and NX45 via NMEA 2000 or NMEA0183.   Useful data like fuel and engine monitoring and infrared camera images can be viewed on the NX40 and NX45 display, for added safety and peace of mind.

• 25 January 2008
  A World First, VHF/DSC with integrated AIS Receiver
  

  Icom UK is pleased to launch the world’s first VHF/DSC’s with integrated AIS (Automatic Identification System) receiver. Both the IC-M603 and IC-M505 VHF/DSC’s can now be purchased with integrated AIS Receiver. An innovation providing a way for boat owners to receive AIS information from just a single unit. This new integrated solution provides a range of essential features, VHF, DSC, Hailer & Foghorn capability and now AIS Receiver – all in one unit. In addition, both units can be controlled by a Commandmic giving owners of larger boats that extra piece of mind and flexibility.

  Each radio comes, as standard, with a cable which simply connects to your PC or chart plotter* and then you are up and running. You will then be able to display AIS equipped vessels over your cartography and work out their speed and trajectory. In addition you will be able to gain other information such as MMSI number, name of vessel and destination, useful to know in case you need to use the DSC to arrange to speak on a calling channel. The AIS receiver also benefits from the excellent performance of the IC-M505 and IC-M603 receiver.

  Let’s not forget the two units that the AIS receiver is integrated to. The IC-M505 is the most waterproof VHF/DSC in the market place with advanced IPX8 grade waterproofing (equivalent of submersion to 1.5 metres for 30 minutes) which makes it ideal for the most extreme of environments. It has an intuitive and well laid out display and a number of important features including hailer and fog horn facility.

  The IC-M603 is the ideal VHF/DSC for boat owners who want a stylish, well laid out and easy to use transceiver. The IC-M603 features a large front facing speaker to produce very loud and clear audio even over engine or other background noise. It has a large, backlit, high resolution LCD display and control panel. VHF and DSC functions are controlled on the panel. Like the IC-M505 it has hailer and fog horn facility.

  A major feature of both models is that either may be remotely controlled by one HM-162 Commandmic. By using the central jog dial you can operate essential functions of either model including DSC operation, loud hailer and foghorn from remote locations such as the cockpit or fly bridge up to a maximum distance of 18.3 metres (60ft). In addition, the IC-M603 has the option of being controlled by a second Commandmic even allowing intercom facility between two Commandmic’s.

  Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom UK said,’ these are the world’s first VHF/DSC transceivers with integrated AIS Receiver. They simply interface with your chart plotter* or PC with one standard cable and will allow you to receive position and other vital information of other AIS equipped vessels. This solution will give seafarers the information to make safe passage through busy waters.’

  Both units will be showcased on the Icom stand SO18A at the London Boat Show 2008 at Excel. The retail price of the IC-M505 (with AIS Receiver) is £569.95 (inc.VAT). The retail price of the IC-M603 (with AIS Receiver) is £749.95 (inc.VAT).

  * Subject to the specifications of your chart plotter

  sales@icomuk.co.uk

  www.icomuk.co.uk

• 25 January 2008
  London Boatshow Exclusive, Icom Marine Controller Products
  

  Icom UK is pleased to provide the first glimpse of two new concept VHF/DSC models at this year’s London Boatshow. Two new ‘black box’ transceivers called the IC-M505 Controller and the IC-M603 Controller are being shown for the first time in the world. They may look simplistic, but these are fully functional transceivers, which can be installed out of sight, which is important, where space is at a premium. These radios could have huge appeal to a wide range of users.

  The concept is to control each model by an Icom Commandmic. By using the central jog dial and buttons you can operate all functions of each radio including VHF, DSC operation, loud hailer and foghorn from remote locations such as the cockpit or fly bridge. The Commandmic meets the highest specification of waterproofing (IPX8: 1.5m for 30 minutes) in the market place, so if it rains, hails it wont let you down.

  This innovation from Icom gives the benefits of a full fixed VHF/DSC to boatowners who might not normally have the space to use one. There are some boat owners who may only have very little space for instruments and rely on a handheld VHF for their comms. The ability to utilise 25 Watt output power from either fixed units, as well as the vessels VHF antenna will give greater range to these users and a lot more flexibility. Because these are based on Icoms higher tier models you have a range of facilities to operate from the controlling Commandmic including VHF, DSC, Hailer and Foghorn Functions.

  Because a Commandmic controls the unit, you get more intuitive control. In rough weather conditions, when the sea is extremely choppy and when you are trying to keep your balance, a Commandmic is probably easier to use than trying to retain your balance and operate the functions of VHF mounted to the bulkhead or console.

  Icom believe there are many users who could benefit from this new product range:
  • Powerboat owners, overwhelmed by the amount of instrumentation who have very little space for a fixed unit.
  • Sail boats where space is at a premium
  • Anywhere where there is a chart table. With the evolution of marine electronic equipment more instrumentation is now housed on a chart table, where space is at a premium. Simply moving the main comms unit out of sight optimises space and allows you to use your Commandmic conveniently at the chart table.
  • For the boat builder these models are ideal. Not only is it a convenient product to install, it can be fitted and can almost be forgotten about.

  For the less frequent sailor, the chances of theft of the VHF are minimised. The Commandmic can be simply unplugged from the hidden main unit at the end of the day and taken home until the next time you use your boat

  Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom UK Ltd said, ‘Icom’s product development policy is to put the needs for the consumer at the forefront of product development. Together with our new VHF/DSC’s with integrated AIS receiver, Icom now have an innovative range of quality radio products available for all mariners.’

  These are the first concept models to be seen in the world. No release date has yet been planned.

  Marketing Dept: marketing@icomuk.co.uk

  www.icomuk.co.uk

• 25 January 2008
  New Navtex weather and Nav Receiver From Marine Electronic Services
  

  Marine Electronic Services Ltd have expanded their range of Wetterbox NAVTEX and weather receivers with the addition of two new models for 2008. First off is the WIB2BX – a black box Navtex receiver with PC connection that comes complete with either a balun antenna adaptor (allowing along wire or insulated stay to act as the antenna) or a dedicated compact active antenna. Sail boat owners will appreciate the ability to use a stay as an antenna without more mast head antenna clutter.

  Users simply hook up a PC via a standard USB interface to display messages received and stored by the WIB2BX. The WIB2BX has also been designed with true dual channel receiver technology allowing simultaneous reception of the two (518/490KHZ) frequencies without user intervention. That means you’ll always have the latest coastal and offshore weather information available from the two transmissions. It also incorporates a highly accurate (to 0.1hPa) barograph with 7 day log so pressure trends can be analysed to aid weather forecasting. It’s priced at £299.99 inc VAT (with antenna or balun) and is ideal for permanent installation.

  For users looking for a portable solution, the new WIB2B is available – a selfcontained, Navtex receiver building on from the WIB2 launched last year yet now with the additional barograph feature built in. This unit, about the size a pack of cigarettes, has a rechargeable battery and internal antenna incorporated for true portable operation – just plug into any windows PC with internet explorer to display the data.

  Despite using a PC, no connection to the internet is needed nor charge for Navtex data is made. The WIB2B is priced at £249.95 inc VAT.
  For further information, please contact:
  Marine Electronic Services Ltd,
  Marine House, Unit 10, City Business Park, Easton Road, Bristol BS5 0SP, United Kingdom
  Telephone: 0870 122 1099. Fax: 0870 122 1098.
  Email: sales@mesltd.co.uk
  www.mesltd.co.uk

• 25 January 2008
  Garmin Introduces Fishfinder 300C
  

  Garmin have announced the UK debut of the Fishfinder 300C, a high-performance analogue sonar that’s perfect for the budget-conscious fisherman looking to upgrade to a vivid colour unit.

  “The Fishfinder 300C is a great sounder for someone looking for an entry level colour fishfinder for fresh or salt water,” said Chris Boyle, Garmin’s UK Marine Product Manager.  “It’s compact and sleek enough to fit on any size boat, yet it sports a great-looking display and Garmin’s new easy to use menu.”

  The Fishfinder 300C has a sunlight readable 3.5-inch TFT QVGA display (320 x 240 pixels) and a dual beam transducer (14/45 degrees at 200kHz/80kHz) with a power output of 150 watts (RMS) 1200 watts peak to peak and can find the bottom up to 900 feet deep.  The unit has more fish-catching features like UltraScroll for extremely rapid screen updates which is useful at faster boat speeds, a water temperature log, round flasher display mode, and 2x and 4x automatic and manual zoom scales.

  In addition, the Fishfinder 300C features Garmin’s completely redesigned user interface that lets boaters intuitively see and select the information they want, while eliminating the clutter they don’t – all with fewer button pushes.  The Fishfinder 300C features a sophisticated and elegant “flat-screen” physical design that compliments today’s modern boats.  The unit can be either bail mounted on a bracket or flush-mounted from the front, with mounting screws hidden behind removable front tabs.

  The Fishfinder 300C is available in January 2008

  Recommended Retail Price :
  Fishfinder 300C – £249.99 inc VAT

  Visit www.garmin.co.uk  for more information.

• 25 January 2008
  Garmin Introduces Fuel Sensor & High Sensitivity Marine GPS Sensor
  

  Garmin has today introduced in the UK the GFS 10, a fuel sensor that provides fuel flow rate data to Garmin multi-function displays (MFDs) or their new GMI 10 colour instrument, via NMEA 2000 or Garmin’s proprietary CANet.

  “The GFS 10 marks Garmin’s entry into NMEA 2000 sensors, and like all equipment that carries the Garmin name, it offers features and reliability not found elsewhere,” said Chris Boyle, Garmin’s UK Marine Product Manger.  “Fuel flow and fuel consumption can help boaters optimise their fuel economy and ensure sufficient fuel is aboard for safety.”

  Unlike other fuel flow sensors, the GFS 10 will include fuel level sensing capability when connected to an existing analogue fuel gauge or resistive fuel tank sensor.  Maximum fuel flow rate for the GFS 10 is 50 gallons per hour, and the minimum flow rate is two gallons per hour.  Multiple fuel sensors can be connected for boats with multiple engines or tanks.  The GFS 10 is designed for marine petrol engines only.

  As petrol prices continue to increase, a fuel sensor can help any boater get the most out of their time on the water and save on fuel bills.

  Also today, Garmin introduced the GPS 17x, a high sensitivity GPS receiver available in NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183/Garmin serial configurations.  High sensitivity receivers have become the standard in other navigation applications, and Garmin is the first to bring this capability to the marine market.  High sensitivity GPS receivers are quicker to acquire satellites and stay locked-on better in challenging environments.  The GPS 17x can be pole mounted, flush mounted, or even mounted below the deckhead for difficult installations.

  Recommended Retail Prices :

  GFS 10 – £179.99
  GPS 17x NMEA 0183 – £149.99
  GPS 17x NMEA 2000 – £199.99

  Visit www.garmin.co.uk for more information

• 25 January 2008
  New Simrad Autopilots
  

  A new benchmark in innovation and performance is set with the sophisticated new Simrad autopilot range

  The new Simrad AP24 and AP28 autopilots both offer unique functionality and precise, highly reliable operation that promises safe and efficient auto steering performance for sail and power boats alike.

  The Simrad AP24 and AP28 harness the power of SimNet, a unique NMEA 2000 based data bus that enables simple installation and configuration in addition to huge network data sharing and control potential in combination with other SimNet and NMEA 2000 based systems, such as the new Simrad IS20 instruments.

  Both the AP24 and AP28 feature innovative Simrad Virtual Rudder Feedback (VRF™) technology. This unique system, recently introduced to Simrad autopilots, means that no rudder feedback unit is needed for outboards and stern drive boats. In terms of installation, this saves a significant amount of time and money.

  The AP24 is a compact autopilot ideal for boats up to 80 feet with less space at the helm or dashboard. The AP28 has also been designed with space saving in mind, however it packs the power to handle mid-size and over sail and power boats in all conditions. Both autopilots share the same new Simrad look and user-friendly interface, in addition to a wealth of innovative functionality:

  • Integrated Turn Patterns – Programmable S-turn, Zig-Zag, Continuous turn, Square patterns etc.
  • Integrated steering algorithms – Full Rate Of Turn control for smooth and precise turns in any condition. Also improves tack and gybe performance on sailboats.
  • Contour Steering – This unique Simrad feature utilises data from fishfinders and depth instruments to maintain a set water depth, just like manually steering along depth contours on a paper chart.
  • No Drift Course – Maintain Course over Ground even in severe wind and currents.
  • Advanced Wind Steering – Wind and GPS data combines to hit long-distance waypoints dead-on.
  • Flexible control – Several options including Multi-Station and wireless (WR20 RemoteCommander). Future proof through the use of SimNet.
  • Instrument Data – Full range of available instrument data displayed on screen to save space and the cost of an extra instrument.

  Simrad autopilots have earned an enviable reputation in both the professional and recreational marine sectors. This has been won through the inherent accuracy and reliability that forms the basis for all Simrad developed autopilots and is reflected by the fact that Simrad Autopilots have received 39 NMEA Awards since 1983. With this as a foundation, the launch of any new Simrad autopilot is hotly anticipated and the AP24 and AP28 are guaranteed to deliver the power, performance and functionality expected of them.

  “The AP24 and AP28 are set to prove once again that Simrad leads the pack when it comes to autopilot operation and functionality. The Simrad autopilot heritage speaks for itself. Simrad has been, and still is a driving force within the autopilot category and is considered by many to be the premier brand,” comments Jens Thomas Pietralla, CEO of Navico, parent company to the Simrad brand.

  (www.simrad-yachting.com)

• 25 January 2008
  Garmin Introduces the GMI 10: A Colourful New Look For Marine Instrumentation
  

  Garmin has announced the UK launch of the GMI 10, a NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 compliant marine instrument that provides valuable, at-a-glance data to boaters – information like speed, depth, weather, engine and fuel-related information. 

  The GMI 10 represents a fresh new approach to marine instrumentation.  It features an exceptionally bright and sharp sunlight-readable 3.5-inch diagonal full colour display that can be easily read from a distance.  Its three “soft” keys, and a dedicated “back” button make it very easy to use, and the GMI 10’s crisp industrial design matches the look of Garmin’s newest line of multifunction displays.

  “Garmin has taken marine instrumentation and brought it into the 21st century,” said Chris Boyle, Garmin’s UK Marine Product Manager.  “With a large sunlight readable colour display, intuitive menu and Garmin-simple plug-and-play configurability, the GMI 10 is a great new device for boaters and installers alike.”

  The GMI 10 is compatible with NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183 sensors and can be configured as one particular type of instrument (e.g. Speed or Engine) or can display a set of favourite customised pages at the press of a button. Most information can be shown as digits, analogue gauge or as a graph.

  To interface with the GMI 10, Garmin is also introducing an array of Intelligent Transducers in both transom and through-hull configurations with a beam width of 15 degrees and a maximum depth of 600 feet.  These Intelliducers can output both depth and water temperature data to the GMI 10 in either NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183.  The through-hull transducers are offered in either a zero to 12-degree deadrise or a 13 to 24-degree deadrise to allow easy installation on most boats.

  The GMI 10 is available in February 2008.
  Recommended Retail Price :
  GMI 10 – £399.99 inc VAT

  Visit www.garmin.co.uk  for more information.

• 25 January 2008
  Garmin Rolls Out New Large Format Multi-Function Displays
  

  Garmin has introduced in the UK a new line of big-screen multi-function displays (MFDs), designed for use in larger yachts and motorboats – the Touchscreen GPSMAP 5015 and the GPSMAP 4010.

  “These new displays are versatile, powerful and stylish” said Chris Boyle, Garmin’s UK Marine Product Manager. “Their vivid, big, and bright displays catch the eye, but they boast plenty of cutting-edge, market-leading innovations as well.”

  The GPSMAP 5015 has a whopping 15-inch diagonal XGA (1024 x 768 pixel) sunlight readable touchscreen display.  The touchscreen makes navigating menus a snap because the “virtual buttons” change depending on the function. It also eliminates the need for “hard” buttons, so saving space and allowing you to fit a bigger screen at your helm.  Garmin Touchscreen 5000 series displays are also available with 12 inch and 8 inch screens.
   
  The GPSMAP 4010 features a 10.4-inch diagonal SVGA (800 x 600 pixel) sunlight readable display with a conventional alphanumeric keypad and a row of soft keys for easy data input.  Within this family, Garmin already offers the 4012 and 4008 twelve and eight inch products.

  These new MFDs feature Garmin’s revolutionary new user interface that lets users intuitively see and select the information they want, while eliminating the clutter they don’t – all with fewer button pushes.  All 2008 units also feature a stylish new design that compliments today’s modern boats.

  Both of the new units are fully network compatible with the Garmin Marine Network, including other Garmin 4000 and 5000 displays, GPS, digital radar, autopilot, sonar, and other sensors.  The 5015 and 4010 units have three built-in network ports, four NMEA 0183 inputs, two NMEA 0183 outputs, one NMEA 2000 port, two video inputs for onboard cameras, and one PC monitor video output.

  The new displays come with a worldwide satellite imagery basemap to enhance the standard vector chart format. However Garmin’s optional BlueChart g2 Vision enhanced cartography – conveniently available on a pre-programmed SD card, – offers a wide range of clever and helpful features.  In addition to high resolution satellite imagery, g2 Vision features true 3D “Mariner’s Eye View” above water or a “Fish Eye” underwater perspective – both in three dimensions.  The g2 Vision data card also enables auto guidance technology on compatible units – searching all the chart attributes to quickly and conveniently suggest the best navigational course to your destination.  For help in navigating tricky harbours and channels – or locating marinas and resorts – g2 Vision cards offer a growing database of aerial reference photos.  BlueChart g2 Vision capabilities are only available when the optional card is loaded in a compatible chartplotter.

  The GPSMAP 5015 and GPSMAP 4010 will be available in March 2008.  Visit www.garmin.co.uk  for more information.
  Recommended Retail Prices :
  GPSMAP 4010 – £1799.99 inc VAT
  GPSMAP 5015 – £4499.99 inc VAT

• 25 January 2008
  Cutting-Edge Graphic Display Spearheads New Simrad IS20 Instrument Range
  

  The Navico stand at LIBS 2008 will be showing the brand new Simrad instrument family designed to offer performance and flexibility for both sail and powerboats. The Simrad IS20 range consists of four analogue and two digital instrument heads, all based on the SimNet NMEA 2000 data bus for simple installation and integration.

  Of the six meticulously developed and engineered instruments in the range, the IS20 GRAPHIC places Simrad instruments firmly back at the forefront of technology. Providing real-time graphical representation of instrument data, the IS20 GRAPHIC enables skippers, navigators and cruisers alike to quickly and easily visualise the incredibly accurate information from Simrad sensors.

  More than this, the IS20 GRAPHIC is a multi-functional instrument that can shift quickly between display styles giving the user a choice between large digital data readouts that are easy to read for quick action, detailed multi information readouts for careful planning and multiple data types on one screen, and unique precision graphical presentations that simplify the data at hand. The IS20 GRAPHIC can also operate as a multi-function repeater for other products via SimNet.

  The IS20 COMBI provides all the information you need so is perfect as a standalone system or first step into the world of state-of-the-art electronics. Equally, as it can be remotely controlled from an IS20 GRAPHIC, it makes the ideal second instrument station, especially as it offers a variety of digital data combinations: speed, depth and temperature; depth, speed and temperature combined; and trip log and passage time.

  Despite the innovation in new Simrad digital instruments, compass, rudder angle, wind direction and tack are still best presented on an analogue instrument. IS20 Analogue instruments feature clear easy to read needle pointers with precise Micro Stepper-Motor technology along with highly advanced Kalman stabilised wind data processing for superb accuracy.

  They provide exceptionally precise instrument data in the classic format that all sailors are familiar with, but also with a twist: all IS20 instruments have an integral LCD screen to ensure that the data can never be misread, regardless of conditions.

  IS20 Analogue instruments feature a new four-button interface for simple operation and selectable dusk and night-time backlighting that combine to make one of the most user-friendly, modern instruments systems ever devised. This ensures that the exceptionally precise instrument data such as true and apparent wind speed/angle, true wind direction, magnified wind angle, compass heading and cross track error (XTE) is available and easy to take in at all times.

  Simrad IS20 instruments are exceptionally easy to install, as no access to the inside of a console, dashboard or mast is required. Integration and connection to sensors is just as simple, as the Simrad Intelligent Marine Network – SimNet – features plug-and-play operation and thin cables for easy routing, so you’ll be up and running in very little time. SimNet also enables complete integration of the IS20 with other systems such as the new Simrad AP24 and AP28 autopilots.

  There is an extensive range of active and passive transducers for the IS20 system, all of which offer highly accurate measurements and excellent reliability. The new SimNet single multi-transducer provides speed, depth and temperature all-in-one, making installation of the IS20 instrument system even easier.

  - Ends -

  (www.simrad-yachting.com)

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