Archive for November 2008

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  • 21 November 2008
    BMET - Intermediate Syllabus, download here!

    The syllabus covers the underpinning knowledge of marine electrical systems and marine instrumentation. It leads from a revision of dc & ac theory into its application to electrical equipment. It includes the basic sensors and control systems with drawings used on a typical marine installation. Students understanding of these concepts will be applied to the understanding of electrical power sources, distribution and utilisation. It therefore provides a platform for safe, effective electrical/electronic installation and maintenance, basic
    faultfinding and the operation of navigational aids equipment. 

    To download this document, please click here.

  • 20 November 2008
    Garmin’s Touchscreen Oregon™ Series Gives Marine Enthusiasts the World at their Fingertips

    Garmin is proud to introduce the Oregon series of handheld GPS devices for marine, outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, combining an intuitive touchscreen interface, rugged, resilient design and a variety of preloaded mapping options.

    “The Oregon’s vibrant screen is responsive to the touch of your finger, yet resistant to the forces of nature,” said Clive Taylor, Garmin’s Director of Product.

    “Combining the touchscreen interface of our leading automotive devices with the preloaded features of our acclaimed recreation products makes this the ultimate outdoor handheld.”

    Easy to learn and simple to use, the Oregon features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, preloaded mapping and a high-resolution, colour 3-inch screen that reacts as users tap or drag through menus and options.

     On a mountain or an ocean, satellite reception is even faster than before thanks to Garmin’s new HotFixTM feature, which automatically calculates and stores critical satellite information and can use that information to quickly calculate a position without waiting for data collection from the satellites.

    The Oregon is perfect for marine enthusiasts with small boats and dinghies as it is lightweight and waterproof to IPX7. It also includes points of interest and tide times to help you plan your water-based adventures.

    The top of the range Oregon 400t gives hikers a preloaded European topographic map at approximately 1:100k scale*, with street-level detail and state-of-the-art 3D elevation perspective. The Oregon 300 features a worldwide basemap with shaded relief and the Oregon 200 provides a basemap that can be easily supplemented with additional mapping or charts for your adventures on land or at sea.

    The Oregon series plays well with others, as the 400t and 300 allow for wireless exchange of tracks, waypoints and geocaches between other Oregon units and Colorado models.

    The Oregon 300 and 400t models are equipped with a barometric altimeter and electronic compass and are compatible with Garmin’s heart-rate monitors and speed/cadence sensors giving you the ability to monitor your fitness and cycling speed whilst out and about.

    Garmin knows its users have many interests, so the Oregon lets you customize five profiles — automotive, marine, recreation, fitness or paperless Geocaching — making the most beneficial features for each activity the easiest to access through quick shortcuts.

    Weighing only 193g with up to 18 hours of life from two AA batteries, the Oregon has a microSD card slot that is ideal for loading additional MapSource detail including Bluechart mapping . For more about the Oregon’s features, pricing and availability, go to www.garmin.co.uk and www.garmin.blogs.com.

  • 20 November 2008
    New ‘Touch’ Chart Plotter From Digital Yacht

    Touch is the latest electronic chart plotter product from Digital Yacht.  As its names implies, it uses touchscreen technology for fingertip cursor control and data entry. 

    A 12″ and 15″ version are available which connect to a separate black box processor, which is based around embedded PC technology.  It looks and feels just like a normal plotter but features the power and performance of a PC.  The processor incorporates a Class B AIS transponder and also a high power wi-fi access system.  The processor comes pre-loaded with a global database of over 35,000 charts.  These are based on the latest C-Map Max Pro technology, so charts can either be purchased outright or rented for a four month period.  Automatic chart updates are available through the wi-fi link, so the system will download notice to mariner updates whenever you are within wi-fi range or the system is connected to the internet.  Users can also download chart updates at home and install them on to the system using a simple USB-type memory stick.

    Touch is also the first chart plotter with voice guidance.  Plug in an optional cockpit speaker and you will get clear, spoken commands of key navigation data such as depth, bearing, course, cross track and boat speed.  The user can choose what information and how often it is repeated.  Providing voice guidance certainly brings a new dimension to navigation.

    Thanks to the built in Class B AIS transponder, AIS data from nearby targets is overlaid onto the detailed electronic charts and your vessel data is also transmitted to other AIS users.  The chart plotter also incorporates some sophisticated features such as multiple chart windows, options of either course up or north up chart displays, tidal current and height overlays, plus a user interface that allows you to configure just about any parameter or screen layout you would require.

    Touch can also be expanded into a multi-function product with the addition of a range of radar scanners (2/4KW in radome or open array format) and there is even a black box sounder module to add fish finding/depth sounding capabilities to the system.  The system can also be used with a variety of other input devices such as a keypad, mouse, joystick or trackerball.

    Touch is also remarkably fast in terms of its screen re-draws - even when re-drawing a detailed image with satellite overlay, which is one of the features built into the C-Map Max cartography.  The reason for this is the use of one of Intel’s latest generation of powerful Atom, low-powered processors, together with some slick software.  Touch sells for just £2895 including VAT (€ 3995 including tax) for a comprehensive 12″ or 15″ system incorporating AIS, wi-fi and GPS.

  • 20 November 2008
    Garmin broadens instrument range with ‘super smooth’ Wind Sensor

    Garmin is introducing its first wind sensor for its marine networking range of instruments. The GWS 10 Wind Sensor is a modern new wind vane that not only monitors wind speed and direction but also provides barometric pressure and air temperature data – in effect, a mini weather station suitable for sailing boats and power craft.

    What’s more, its fast, 10Hz wind direction output creates the smoothest graphical needle movement on the market, making the GWS 10 Wind Sensor ideal for those who need to interpret wind shifts quickly and accurately.

    Designed to be linked to Garmin’s GMI 10 Marine Instrument Display and other NMEA 2000 multi-function displays, including any Garmin Marine Network Chart Plotter with a NMEA 2000 port, the GWS 10 Wind Sensor is a ‘smart’ transducer that is easily integrated into the NMEA 2000 data bus.  Also, when linked to the GMI 10, it will graphically track wind speed and angle, barometric pressure and temperature, enabling the user to view trends over a variable time base.

    Highly accurate at low and high wind speeds, GWS 10 can precisely monitor winds from zephyrs to hurricanes. It provides the essential data of apparent wind speed and direction, atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature which, when combined with other sensors and a GMI 10 instrument display, can be used to calculate true wind angle and speed, wind VMG (boat speed made good to windward), tack heading, pressure trend and tidal set and drift.

    The GWS 10 Sensor has an external, waterproof connection at the masthead to ease installation. The NMEA 2000 backbone cable is lead directly to the GWS10 and preserves the NMEA 2000 bus should the sensor be removed from the system. Whenever the NMEA 2000 system is operational, the GWS10 provides wind and weather data throughout the network.

    Other sensors in the Garmin Marine Networking series include fuel sensors, NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 intelliducers (depth transducers) and the GPS17X high sensitivity receiver/antenna.

  • 20 November 2008
    Garmin introduces two new VHF marine radios

    Garmin, is pleased to announce the launch of the VHF 100i and VHF 200i, two new powerful VHF radios.

    Clive Taylor, Director of Product for Garmin, said: “These new radios share the same great features found in many other Garmin marine products, including large, easy-to-read displays, a simple user interface, and an eye-catching design that complements any helm.

    “Combine that with Garmin’s well-established reputation for quality, and boat enthusiasts now have a great tool that enhances both convenience and safety.”

    The VHF 100i is Garmin’s entry-level radio, offering 25 watts of transmitter power and Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capability via NMEA 0183.  In addition to dedicated buttons for ease of use, the VHF 100i features three soft keys that allow you to intuitively see and select the information you want, whilst eliminating the clutter you don’t. 

    Information is presented on a 3.2-inch display – the largest screen available in its class.  The VHF 100i also features Position Tracking, which allows a mariner to locate and keep tabs on up to three other boats that use a Garmin system.

    The VHF 200i incorporates all of the features mentioned above and adds a number of premium features, including NMEA 2000 compatibility for easy installation and integration with NMEA 2000 enabled multifunction displays. 

    The 200i comes with a wired fist microphone and supports one wired full-function handheld (the GHS™ 10) which allows for full remote operation.  The wired mics can also be relocated by the installer for optimal location on the boat’s console.  The VHF 200i also boasts 20-watt hailer compatibility for communication with other boats or deckhands. 

    All VHF units feature Garmin’s stylish industrial design, and can be mounted on an included bracket or flush-mounted, without purchasing any additional hardware.

  • 20 November 2008
    Raymarine’s 1000th G Series confirmed at METS

    Raymarine has announced that the company has sold its 1000th G Series system at METS.  Azimut, Ferretti and Uniesse are amongst boat manufacturers that have recently confirmed orders, taking total sales of the company’s top of the range multifunction display system to over 1000 since its launch in Autumn ‘07.

    Sales and Marketing director, Andy King said, “The G Series appeals to production boat builders and custom builders worldwide.  G Series aroused a lot of interest at its launch - it’s a really powerful system that is easy to install and, even more importantly, easy to use.  Customers are specifying it and boat manufacturers are fitting it.”

    The G Series is the perfect platform for Raymarine’s range of HD Digital products including the latest Super HD Digital radar and the ultra-powerful DSM400 HD Digital fishfinder.  As a complete multifunction helm solution, the G series offers a choice of high definition colour displays, giving access to 3D chartplotter, digital radar, digital fishfinder, networked video from multiple sources and AIS, providing a comprehensive and powerful solution for all onboard requirements.

  • 20 November 2008
    New Satelite TV, The Digitalvision TV5 From Digital Yacht

    Digital Yacht has launched the DigitalVision TV5 satellite TV system for boats.  It is a fully automatic and stabilised satellite tracking system, so TV can be received even whilst underway or at anchor with no manual realignment of the antenna required.

    It comprises a compact, radome-style antenna together with a small below deck control unit - all you need to add is a TV and satellite decoder.  Traditional stabilised satellite TV systems have always had a much larger dome shaped antenna but the DigitalVision uses new, patented phased array technology which allows the use of a much lower profile antenna.  Despite this, the system is more than capable of tracking even in the roughest of sea states and it also incorporates a GPS and gyro to help stabilise the antenna. Just a single cable links the antenna to the below deck processor so installation is a breeze.  The below deck unit also incorporates a DC-AC inverter so that the TV can be powered from the boat’s battery system.

    The system comes pre-programmed and optimised for Astra 2 satellites which carry broadcasts from the popular Sky and FreeSat services - ideal for UK users.  The system can also be programmed for Hot Bird, Thor and Astra 1 satellites if European coverage is required, with a simple plug in programme. 

    For further information, please contact:
    Digital Yacht Ltd., Digital House, Unit 10 City Business Park, Easton Road, Bristol, BS5 OSP, UK.
    Telephone: +44(0)1179 114111 
    Email: sales@digitalyacht.co.uk
    www.digitalyacht.co.uk

  • 20 November 2008
    Garmin® Announces New Marine Charts: More Details at a Lower Price

    Garmin is pleased to announce the next generation of its BlueChart® g2 and BlueChart g2 Vision™ technology – giving boaters even more dimension and information to what is already considered the benchmark in marine cartography.

    Laura Tomei, Cartography Manager at Garmin said: “Garmin’s software developers and cartographers have created the most accurate and detailed charts available to provide boaters with greater capabilities on the water.

    The new chart enhancements offer a lower cost chart alternative for marine enthusiasts, yet provide the detailed data content mariners need and expect.”

    From January 2009, Garmin’s traditional BlueChart data will be replaced with a redefined version of BlueChart g2. Building on the popularity of the BlueChart product family, the revised mapping data will add increased dimension and standardized information to the Garmin marine chart offerings, and will allow the user to define colours to depth contour ranges. Users will also benefit from improved transition between zoom levels and seamless changes across chart boundaries with the redesigned product.

    BlueChart g2 will now provide basic charts, tidal stations, currents, perspective view and fishing charts, while providing a smooth user experience and familiar feel. Similarly, g2 Vision has been improved to provide increased quality and detail. In addition to high-resolution satellite imagery, g2 Vision features true “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, and offers a growing database of aerial reference photos.

    The new BlueChart g2 and g2 Vision data will be available in January 2009. Pricing is yet to be confirmed. Visit www.garmin.co.uk for more information, including a list of compatible products, pricing (when available) and software download information.

  • 20 November 2008
    Garmin Announces the GPSMAP® 600 Series: Touchscreen, Rugged and Ready for Land or Sea

    Garmin, is delighted to announce the launch of the GPSMAP 620 – an ultra portable and rugged touchscreen navigator with worldwide basemap and shaded relief.

    Clive Taylor, Director of Product for Garmin, said: “Blending the best aspects of our popular portable marine units with the intuitive user interface of our flagship line of in-car nüvi sat-navs, the GPSMAP 600 series is the perfect tool in the boat and on the road.”

    Portable and powerful, the GPSMAP 620 supports optional street map and marine chart data through an SD card slot. It also features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver and boasts an intuitive, waterproof (IPX7) super-bright 5.2” WVGA touchscreen display (800 x 480 pixels) which reacts as users tap or drag through intuitive menus and options. 

    With optional SD card BlueChart g2 Vision™ technology, the GPSMAP 620 provides a true 3-D “mariner’s eye view,” for a navigation perspective above the waterline, and a “fish eye view” for an underwater 3D bathymetric contour perspective. 

    When placed in its marine mount, the GPSMAP 620 will automatically start up in marine mode, presenting chart features such as shaded depth contours, port plans, wrecks, restricted areas and more. 

    Marine enthusiasts will also benefit from the auto guidance technology the g2 Vision data card enables, which suggests the best navigational route.  In addition, photo references give detailed aerial views of points of interest (POI) such as ports, marinas, waterways and landmarks.

    When you are ready to pack up and hit the road, the GPSMAP 620 effortlessly snaps off its marine mount and, when placed in the car mount, quickly becomes a robust automotive navigator.  Full UK and European mapping is available.

    On the road, this device gives voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions. When planning a route, you can search for a local bait shop or restaurant and the GPSMAP will lead the way.  With the GPSMAP 620, you can also create custom POIs and set up proximity alerts for the ultimate in driver awareness.

  • 18 November 2008
    Icom IC-M71 – The People’s Choice For Handheld VHF Radio

    The world’s largest marine electronics comparison website www.Navigate-us.com has announced the winner of the ‘People’s favourite handheld VHF radio’ as Icom’s IC-M71! All votes were cast online by members of the site.

    The Icom IC-M71 is a 6-Watt top spec. VHF handheld radio, which has found its home in both the commercial and marine market places. Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom (UK) Ltd said, ‘It is really great that the IC-M71 has picked up another online consumer award. Most recently the IC-M71 was voted product of the year by customers and members of the British Marine Electronics Association (BMEA).’

    www.Navigate-us.com is an independent referral site with over 650 products listed with photos and full product specifications. After a basic requirement check, users on the site are provided with suggested marine electronic systems depending on their boat type. Specific individual products can be found within the 14 different product sections. The site can be used to compare functionality and suitability in all available products, and also includes a guidance section describing key product features and detailed information about purchasing marine electronics. The site is free to use, and the data is updated regularly.
    Company founders Kieran Breheny and Bruce Pelkey, have many years experience in the design and development of marine navigation electronics. They bring this experience to customers through a simple and straightforward web site.

    Kieran Breheny, the UK Managing Director, commented: “The world of marine electronics for a recreational user has become too complex; the choice is extensive and the specifications are too long. The goal of navigate-us.com is to simplify the choices for customers and help them, in conjunction with their local electronics dealer, to make the right decision for their boat and type of boating.”

    Navigate-us.com will be exhibited at the London boat show stand N36P. The latest user poll asks users to describe their boating activities and how they’ve altered due to the current economic climate.

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