Preview: Marine Electronics For Every Size Boat, Part 4 – Basic NMEA 2000 System for a Sailboat

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With a new marine electronics system for your sailboat, pretty much all that’s left to do is mix the cocktails, right? Just to be safe, you better still keep a pinky on the wheel and one eye on the old magnetic compass…

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12 Responses So Far to “Marine Electronics For Every Size Boat, Part 4 – Basic NMEA 2000 System for a Sailboat

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    Charles Wayne says:

    Kim,
    Also, chapter 4 ends with you turning on the network but the power connection to the NMEA 2000 bus hasn’t been connected; I think this is an important topic for new installations because two different backbone power cables are available – terminated (primary) and unterminated (secondary for large installations).
    Thanks for a great series

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    Charles Wayne says:

    Kim,
    Is there an source for the NMEA 2000 standards you referenced? the link you provided is locked

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    Jeff Miller says:

    Kim, I am currently preparing a ’78 23 foot shoal draft sail boat to go in the water this season. She hasn’t been wet in many years and when I bought her, aside from an inexpensive compass,she had nothing in the way of equipment, not even a depth sounder. I was looking at installing a Garmin Echomap plus 64cv bluechart with an Airmar P19 thru hull transducer. My intended use is for the boat is primarily day sailing and some overnight gunk holing around Frenchman’s and Penobscot Bays. Your thoughts on proceeding with this purchase/install plan vs going handheld for simplicity? Thanks for your input.

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      Kim Baker says:

      Jeff, that’s great you are heading for the gunk holes! You have a splendid plan with these equipment choices. It is mighty nice to know your depth, and I see the P19 in 12′ or 20′ tilted element. Placement of the ducer is critical for good performance, including deadrise. Forward of the keel, but not so far forward that you catch turbulence. And you would want to measure for a depth offset whilst still on the hard. Yes, the HH chartplotters do show good depth spot soundings, but knowing your real depth in tight quarters or unfamiliar shorelines and coves is a bonus.

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    John Mark Connolly says:

    This all looks amazing (and extremely expensive). If I’m a trailer sailor on a budget, would you suggest I just stick with the handheld GPS unit (I have the Garmin 78 version, not the “sc”), handheld VHF, compass and paper charts? My primary sailing grounds are coastal bays and inland lakes.

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      Kim Baker says:

      John, yes, if you are comfortable navigating with a compass and charts, anything beyond that is extra. Your handhelds have served you well, stick with what works best for you. Keeping it simple is key.

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    Glen Swanson says:

    Could you post the name of that smart phone app you used to measure the interferance on the compass?

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    David Viglierchio says:

    Interested in how to use old Autohelm speed sender to a new MFD. Also, how to send new MFD centered signals to an older Autohelm ST7000 autopilot.
    Thanks!

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      Kim Baker says:

      David, suggest seeking out your nearest Raymarine dealer. Mention ITC-5 and ST1-STNG converter.

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    Kim Baker says:

    The National Marine Electronics Association was founded in 1957.

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