PC-based Navigation/etc. vs. Dedicated Electronics?

Marvin,

You have to download a utility from Delorme that makes the GPS puck have a serial output. Once you have done that, getting it to work reliably is still a challenge. I'm not on my nav computer so don't have access to the notes I made but I think this is the order you have to do things:

a. Start Coastal Explorer
b. Start the Delorme Utility
c. In the Delorem Utility start the GPS

Once that happens Coastal Explorer should find the GPS NMEA stream. Here is a link to the Delorme Utility: http://www.delorme.com/support/supporttemplate.aspx?id=

For primary GPS input I use a USB to Serial Adapter recommended by Rosepoint. On the data input (I think it is pin 3 on 9 pin serial adapter) I input the NMEA output from my Lowrance. This connection is rock solid and doesn't require any fancy start up procedures. I also get depth information on the same connection. For backup GPS data I can plug in an old Garmin GPS 45 or V where I have prewired to feed Coastal Explorer just by connecting a data plug to the GPS. Just don't run both at the same time. Nothing will work.

When I get home, I can send you the wiring diagram for my data distribution bus. The bus is just a screw terminal strip (about $2) with jumpers to split and combine inputs.
 
Thanks Tom Delorme help line wasn't very helpful. This will give me something to occupy my time during this brutal cold snap we are having it's 66 outside. I'm really not interested in having it configured with my on board chart plotter at this point but think it would be great for route planning and a backup. I'm totally blown away by the amount of knowledge on this site.
 
The question was asked about open array vs radome radars. On the C Dory the Radome is desirable, because put dinghies, kayaks, hands, fishing rods etc, which could be tangled with the open array. The only other disadvantage of the open array, is that can build up and cause the gears to strip. Plus the size of the array. Lowarance has some fantastic bargins with the 4' and 5' arrays. If I had a big boat, I would have one of those, but with the C Dory and danger of tangling items in the array, I don't see that as a wise move.

The vast majority of radars are open arrays, and because of the larger scanners, the descrimination (separation of two adjacent targets) is far better with the larger array. All in all the open arrays, properlly mounted are very durable.
 
Thought I would post an update on this subject.

In short: my quest has been quite frustrating!

It seems the only way to get radar into the PC without going through a display unit is to go with Nobeltec's Admiral Max Pro using Nobeltec's radar antennas (which are made by Koden). The problem is that many apparently feel there are better radar options out there than Koden.

MaxSea Time Zero, if it ever is released, looks to be a great option to Admiral Max Pro, but it apparently requires a Furuno NavNet3D MFD in order to access that radar data. But, I was trying to avoid buying an expensive display unit. It kind of defeats the purpose of going PC.

I have come to realize, though, that Furuno is doing some interesting stuff: Many of their devices communicate via Ethernet or N2k, and they use the Maxsea TimeZero technology in their NN3D MFDs (thanks Matt, and others who mentioned Furuno). And they even have a standalone PC with external displays, but the PC is closed architecture and way expensive.

So, no answers yet. But I remain on my quest. It will be interesting to see where it leads.

Thanks everyone....
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mike
 
Ya, I found it frustrating too when I was putting together the electronics package. I was not happy that I only had one option with Nobeltec, but after some review I felt just as comfortable as with any other brand.

I don't have enough experience with the Nobeltec Radar to give you a good feel, but the little that I have used it I was impressed.

I'm guessing that by the next time I buy another boat and put together the electronics package, I'll have some more option in the "Open Sourced" arena.

Good luck.
 
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