Mid-Shore Electronics Tech Corner

1/21/2010 - Our representative just visited us here at M.S.E. and showed us the new Garmin GPSMAP 740. We found a few things out that we would like to share.

The unit is capable of RADAR overlay at this time due to newer software updates.

This unit will work with older transducers non-broadband and newer Garmin ones with an autosense feature which can be turned off and set manually.

They will not work with Raymarine DSM/30/250/300 style transducers.

Also the GHP10 (Garmin autopilot) will track to waypoints planned using the auto-guidance method. Only Garmin autopilots will do this. Other’s will simply have to use the route to or goto method.

All in all it’s a nice unit and worthy of replacement for that 1650WF or 1850WF that is no longer being produced.

1/20/2010-After reading through the manual and Garmin’s website we have outlined some of the features that the Garmin GPSMAP700 Series offers:

Both the GPSMAP 720 and 740 models come with a built-in digital elevation model (DEM) worldwide basemap, which can easily be upgraded with optional BlueChart^® g2 or g2 Vision^® cards for expanded coverage of specific regions. In addition to its digital basemap, the 740 model also comes preloaded with detailed offshore maps for all U.S. coastal areas, including Alaska and Hawaii, plus the Bahamas. And by simply plugging in an optional BlueChart g2 Vision card (sold separately), you can upgrade to such premium features as high-resolution satellite imagery, Auto Guidance, aerial reference photos, and true 3D visual map perspective — with both MarinerEye and FishEye views.

If the model number contains an “s”, the unit contains a built in sounder capable of powering a 1kw transducer at dual frequency of 50/200 khz.

Selectable auto power on capability from the menu.

Internal built-in GPS.

Four ports on the back

1.) Nmea 2000 port (For engines, N2k GPS, Weather, etc.)

2.) Radar port (Ethernet for radar only no other devices.)

3.) Power/Data port (Nmea 0183/ sonar)

4.) External GPS connector (BNC)

Can be used with an external AIS device

The information reported for each vessel includes the Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI), the location, the GPS speed, the GPS heading,

the time that has elapsed since the last position of the vessel was reported, the nearest approach, and the time to the nearest approach.

Uses an auto guidance feature when used in conjunction with a Blue chart vision card will plan your route for you.

Radar Display Modes: The Radar screen has four standard operating modes. Each mode is available for use only with compatible radar.

Cruising mode—shows a full-screen image of the gathered radar information.

Harbor mode—intended for use in inland waters, this mode works best with short-range radar signals (2 nm or less).

Offshore mode—intended for use in open waters, this mode works best with long-range radar signals.

Sentry mode—allows you to put the radar into timed-transmit mode, in which you can configure a radar transmit and standby cycle to conserve power.

You can also enable a guard zone in Sentry mode, which identifies a safe zone around your boat.

Radar mode compatibility:

GMR 20, 21, 40, 41: Cruising mode, Sentry Mode

GMR 18, 18 HD, 24, 24 HD: Cruising mode, Sentry Mode

GMR 404, 406: Cruising mode, Sentry Mode

GMR 604 xHD, 606 xHD, 1204 xHD, 1206 xHD: Harbor mode, Offshore mode, Sentry mode

Capture screenshots from your plotter and view them on your pc.

Software Update As of 3/8/2011

Version 3.00

Changes made from version 2.50 to 3.00:

Radar:
Added Radar Overlay display functionality, which draws returns from a connected Garmin GMR radar over either a Navigation Chart or Fishing Chart presentation. This feature is available as Charts > Radar Overlay or Radar > Radar Overlay. Garmin recommends using a magnetic heading sensor for the best Radar Overlay experience.
Added the option to overlay radar returns on 3D charts.
Added ability to measure distances on radar displays in the same way this can be done on 2D charts.
Corrected an issue where changing the system units would result in inaccurate radar range ring measurements. Range ring measurement accuracy would be restored following a power cycle.
Charts:
Added support for TOPO maps.
Added a control for selecting between two map vehicles and multiple sizes on 2D charts. On the Navigation Chart, select Menu > Navigation Chart Setup > Chart Appearance > Symbols > Vehicle Icon.
Added option to use GPS Heading information when drawing the Heading Line on 2D charts. This is useful for sailboats and other vessels that have a heading sensor but don’t always move in the direction their bow is pointing. Note that GPS Heading is unreliable at vessel speeds near 0 knots (speed over ground).
Moved 3D range ring labels to the side so they don’t obstruct the view ahead of the vessel.
Added support for updating the internal basemap.
Changed text color from black to green for active AIS targets on 2D charts.
Improved presentation of AIS vessels and AIS vessel labels on 3D charts.
Improved visibility of AIS trails on 3D charts.
Improved display performance of the World Map.
Improved presentation of depth soundings on 3D charts. As depth soundings approach the horizon, they will be de-emphasized to reduce clutter on the display.
Corrected text display for charts that use Cyrillic fonts.
Corrected display of elevations for obstructions that are above water.
Corrected various drawing issues around the anti-meridian.
Sonar:
Added a depth log to the Sonar functions.
Added Pic Advance control to Sonar Setup menu, which allows the scrolling sonar picture to advance faster by drawing multiple columns on the screen for each sounding returned.
NMEA2000 & instrumentation:
Created an NMEA 2000 Setup control in the Configuration->Communications menu and moved the Device List into the new setup menu.
Added Label Devices under NMEA 2000 Setup which will allow labeling of NMEA 2000 engines and tanks with pre-defined names.
Added analog display options for tank levels, rudder angle, trim tabs, bow tabs, and engine trim.
Added option to display individual engine fuel flow rate and fuel economy numbers on the Numbers dashboard gauges page and in overlay numbers.
Changed the Engine Dashboard page automatic gauge configuration to only show the trim gauge if engine trim is available.
Added support for Yanmar information received via NMEA2000.
Improved autopilot and chartplotter synergy when more than one plotter is connected via NMEA2000.
Improved support for displaying destination waypoint information on GMI-10 instruments.
Improved support for displaying information regarding autoguidance routes on GMI-10 instruments.
User Data:
Simplified the user interface for creating new waypoints via Chart Menu > Waypoints & Tracks > New Waypoint and Information > User Data > Waypoints > Options > New Waypoint.
Added a prompt to delete unused route waypoints after deleting a route.
Corrected an issue where trying to move a waypoint while the waypoint review page shows a map doesn’t show the Move Waypoint menu.
Corrected an issue where waypoints created by pointing on a weather chart were being created at the center of marine warning areas, rather than at the location pointed to.
Other:
Incorporated higher-resolution system fonts for improved presentation and readability.
Improved weather drawing performance.

Problems with Tide Tabes on your Northstar 941/951/952 after 2010?

General Info, Northstar Comments Off

Jan 082011

Our customers have informed us that some Northstar chartplotters have lost their tide tables since the passing of the new year. The newest software update extends the tide tables to the year 2024 using software version 4.2 that came out in 2008. This software update also takes care of quirky problems with the PRN32 Satellite as well. Send your unit in and we can update it for you. You waypoints will also be saved during the process. Call us at 410-228-7335 or send your unit to 205 Trenton street Cambridge, MD 21613. Unfortunately this is the final update and northstar has long since discontinued support for the product. If you have other issues with your Northstar we here at Mid-Shore Electronics will do our best with used parts to help.

Garmin GPSMAP 7215

FOR SALE, Garmin, Garmin Comments Off

Dec 162010

Garmin GPSMAP 7215 – Now in stock! Please call for pricing.

Put the power of Garmin’s next-generation marine navigator right at your fingertips with the GPSMAP 7215. This touchscreen chartplotter is the flagship in Garmin’s line of full-featured marine products. The GPSMAP 7215 comes standard preloaded BlueChart® g2 maps of the U.S. coast as well as video-quality resolution on an impressive 15.5” XGA display. The GPSMAP 7215 also provides total system integration – allowing support for the addition of sonar, radar, weather and more. For additional enhanced features, you can add the optional BlueChart® g2 Vision® card

Designed to Move

The GPSMAP 7215 brings unprecedented speed to your vessel with Garmin G Motion^TM technology – the future of marine technology today. With blazing-fast map redraw and refresh rates, you’ll have near real-time data to guide you. Whether you’re in a crowded harbor or in uncertain weather, you’ll have the confidence you need to navigate your surroundings with the GPSMAP 7215 as your guide. The GPSMAP 7215 is also compatible with an optional remote and computer mouse for added flexibility. And with a sleek and stylish design that was built to brave the elements, the GPSMAP 7215 looks great in any helm.

View Detailed Graphics and Video

The GPSMAP 7215 features highly detailed BlueChart g2 marine cartography of the coastal United States, including Alaska, Hawaii and the Bahamas. And for more detail, you can easily add maps with the SD™ card slot without having to connect to a computer. The GPSMAP 7215’s high-speed processor draws maps quickly, and its simple intuitive interface makes navigating easy. In addition, the GPSMAP 7215 has support for PC input so it can be used to display presentations and computer applications. And to keep tabs on your engine room or other area of your boat, you can also connect a live video feed with the GPSMAP 7215’s video input and output options. The GPSMAP 7215 also comes standard with a wide range of brightness options – from sunlight-readable to low-light conditions, you can adjust the setting to match the your surroundings.

Add Extras with BlueChart g2 Vision

With the optional BlueChart g2 Vision SD card, you can add a whole new dimension of exceptional features to your chartplotter.

MarinerEye view and FishEye view provide you a 3-dimensional perspective of map information, both above and below the waterline.
High-resolution satellite images and aerial photographs help you orient yourself in unfamiliar areas.
Auto Guidance technology searches through all relevant charts to create a route you can actually follow — one that avoids obstacles, shallow water, buoys and other obstructions.

Connect to your network

The GPSMAP 7215 easily connects to your network – providing system integration so you can interface with additional MFDs and add remote sensors. Once connected, you can share information between the GPSMAP 7215 and other chartplotters on your boat. You can also add high-powered radar, sonar and XM satellite weather and radio to your system.

Physical & Performance:
Unit dimensions, WxHxD:	15.5″ x 11.8″ x 5.9″ (39.4 x 30.1 x 14.9 cm)
Display size, WxH:	12″ x 9″, 15″ diagonal (30.5 x 22.9 cm, 38.1 cm diagonal)
Display resolution, WxH:	1024 x 768 pixels
Display type:	Touchscreen XGA display
Weight:	17.4 lb (7.9 kg)
Battery:	none
Battery life:	none
Waterproof:	yes (IPX7)
High-sensitivity receiver:	yes
Antenna:	external
NMEA input/output:	NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000

Maps & Memory:
Basemap:	yes
Preloaded maps:	yes (coastal maps)
Ability to add maps:	yes
Built-in memory:	none (cannot load maps to internal memory)
Accepts data cards:	SD™ card slot (BlueChart g2 Vision cards sold separately)
Waypoints/favorites/locations:	5,000
Routes:	100
Track log:	50,000 points; 50 saved tracks

Features:
Garmin radar compatible:	yes
Garmin sonar compatible:	yes
Garmin Marine Network™ compatible:	yes
Touchscreen:	yes
Supports AIS (tracks target ships’ position):	yes
Supports DSC (displays position data from DSC capable VHF radio):	yes
Audible alarms:	yes
Tide tables:	yes
Hunt/fish calendar:	no
Sun and moon information:	yes
3-D map view:	yes (with optional BlueChart g2 Vision card)
Auto Guidance:	yes (with optional BlueChart g2 Vision card)
XM WX Weather & Radio for U.S. & Canada compatible:	yes
Automatic routing (turn by turn routing on roads):	no
Voice prompts (e.g. “Turn right in 500 ft.”):	no
Speaks street names (e.g. “Turn right ON ELM STREET in 500 ft.”):	no
Headphone jack/audio line-out:	no
Audio/video input/output:	yes
Portable:	no
Automotive/motorcycle-friendly:	no
Additional:	Interface Inputs/Outputs: 4 NMEA 0183 inputs, 2 NMEA 0183 outputs; 4 video inputs for onboard cameras, 1 PC monitor video output, 1 PC monitor input

Garmin GPSMAP 7212

FOR SALE, Garmin, Garmin Comments Off

Dec 162010

Garmin 7212 Chartplotter

Garmin GPSMAP 7212 – In Stock! Call for pricing.

Put the power of Garmin’s next-generation marine navigator right at your fingertips with the GPSMAP 7012. This touchscreen chartplotter is the flagship in Garmin’s line of full-featured marine products. The GPSMAP 7012 comes standard with a worldwide, satellite-enhanced basemap as well as video-quality resolution on an impressive 12.1” (30.73 cm) XGA display. The GPSMAP 7012 also provides total system integration, allowing support for the addition of sonar, radar, weather and more. For additional enhanced features, you can add the optional BlueChart® g2 Vision® card.

Designed to Move

The GPSMAP 7012 brings unprecedented speed to your vessel with Garmin G Motion™ technology – the future of marine technology today. With blazing-fast map redraw and refresh rates, you’ll have near real-time data to guide you. Whether you’re in a crowded harbor or in uncertain weather, you’ll have the confidence you need to navigate your surroundings with the GPSMAP 7012 as your guide. The GPSMAP 7012 also is compatible with an optional remote and computer mouse for added flexibility. And with a sleek and stylish design that was built to brave the elements, the GPSMAP 7012 looks great in any helm.

View Detailed Graphics and Video

The GPSMAP 7012 features a worldwide basemap with high quality satellite images in place of more traditional maps. And for more detail, you easily can add maps with the SD™ card slot without having to connect to a computer. The GPSMAP 7012’s high-speed processor draws maps quickly, and its simple intuitive interface makes navigating easy. To keep tabs on your engine room or another area of your boat, you also can connect a live video feed with the GPSMAP 7012’s video input/output options. The GPSMAP 7012 also comes standard with a wide range of brightness options; from sunlight-readable to low-light conditions, you can adjust the setting to match your surroundings.

Add Extras with BlueChart g2 Vision

With the optional BlueChart g2 Vision SD card, you can add a whole new dimension of exceptional features to your chartplotter.

MarinerEye view and FishEye view provide you a 3-D perspective of map information, both above and below the waterline.
High-resolution satellite images and aerial photographs help you orient yourself in unfamiliar areas.
Auto Guidance technology searches through all relevant charts to create a route you can actually follow — one that avoids obstacles, shallow water, buoys and other obstructions.

Connect to your Network

The GPSMAP 7012 easily connects to your network, providing system integration so you can interface with additional MFDs and add remote sensors. Once connected, you can share information between the GPSMAP 7012 and other chartplotters on your boat. You also can add high-powered radar, sonar and XM satellite weather and radio to your system.

Garmin GPSMAP 6212

FOR SALE, Garmin, Garmin Comments Off

Dec 162010

Garmin GPSMAP 6212

Garmin GPSMAP 6212 – In Stock! Call for pricing.

Unleash a new level of power across your helm with the GPSMAP 6212. This premier chartplotter is the next evolution in Garmin’s series of full-featured marine products. The GPSMAP 6212 comes standard with preloaded BlueChart® g2 maps of the U.S. coast as well as video-quality resolution on an impressive 12.1” XGA display. The GPSMAP 6212 also provides total system integration – allowing support for the addition of sonar, radar, weather and more. For additional enhanced features, you can add the optional BlueChart® g2 Vision® card.

Designed to Move

The GPSMAP 6212 brings unprecedented speed to your vessel with Garmin G Motion^TM technology – the future of marine technology today. With blazing-fast map redraw and refresh rates, you’ll have near real-time data to guide you. Whether you’re in a crowded harbor or in uncertain weather, you’ll have the confidence you need to navigate your surroundings with the GPSMAP 6212 as your guide. The GPSMAP 6212 is also compatible with an optional remote for added flexibility. And with a sleek and stylish design that was built to brave the elements, the GPSMAP 6212 looks great in any helm.

View Detailed Graphics and Video

The GPSMAP 6212 features highly detailed BlueChart g2 marine cartography of the coastal United States, including Alaska, Hawaii and the Bahamas. And for more detail, you can easily add maps with the SD™ card slot without having to connect to a computer. The GPSMAP 6212’s high-speed processor draws maps quickly, and its simple intuitive interface makes navigating easy. To keep tabs on your engine room or other area of your boat, you can also connect a live video feed with the GPSMAP 6212’s video input and output options. The GPSMAP 6212 also comes standard with a wide range of brightness options – from sunlight-readable to low-light conditions, you can adjust the setting to match the your surroundings.

Add Extras with BlueChart g2 Vision

With the optional BlueChart g2 Vision SD card, you can add a whole new dimension of exceptional features to your chartplotter.

MarinerEye view and FishEye view provide you a 3-dimensional perspective of map information, both above and below the waterline.
High-resolution satellite images and aerial photographs help you orient yourself in unfamiliar areas.
Auto Guidance technology searches through all relevant charts to create a route you can actually follow — one that avoids obstacles, shallow water, buoys and other obstructions.

Connect to the your network

The GPSMAP 6212 easily connects to your network – providing system integration so you can interface with additional MFDs and add remote sensors. Once connected, you can share information between the GPSMAP 6212 and other chartplotters on your boat. You can also add high-powered radar, sonar and XM satellite weather and radio to your system.

Older Entries

Changes made from version 2.50 to 3.00:

Designed to Move

View Detailed Graphics and Video

Add Extras with BlueChart g2 Vision

Connect to your network

Physical & Performance:

Maps & Memory:

Features:

Designed to Move

View Detailed Graphics and Video

Add Extras with BlueChart g2 Vision

Connect to your Network

Designed to Move

View Detailed Graphics and Video

Add Extras with BlueChart g2 Vision

Connect to the your network