Furuno WeatherCaster Operator’s Guide

Download

WeatherCaster

WeatherStation® Instrument Compass

™

Software Guide

with GPS Receiver

Heading Sensor

Smart™ Sensor

GPS Receiver

Compass

Record the version number found on the Airmar Sensor Support CD.

Version No.______________Date of Purchase_________________

17-460-01 rev. 05 02/20/12

All Rights Reserved. Except as expressly provided herein, no part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, transmitted, disseminated, downloaded, or stored in any storage medium, for any purpose without prior written consent of Airmar. Airmar hereby grants permission to download a single copy of this manual and of any revision of this manual onto a hard drive or other electronic storage medium to be viewed and to print one copy of this manual or any revision hereto, provided that such electronic or printed copy of this manual or revision must contain the complete text of this copyright notice and provided further that any unauthorized commercial distribution of this manual or any revision hereto is strictly prohibited.

Information in this manual is subject to change without notice. Airmar reserves the right to change or improve its products and to make changes in the content without obligation to notify any person or organization of such changes. Visit the Airmar website at www.airmar.com for current updates and supplemental information concerning the use and operation of this and other Airmar products.

Table of Contents

Introduction and Sensor Functions.................................................. 4

Installing WeatherCaster™ Software...............................................5

Installing the Application..............................................................5

Installing the Drivers.....................................................................8

Setting Up WeatherCaster™ Software...........................................14

NMEA 0183 Interface.................................................................15

NMEA 2000® Interface.............................................................. 17

Using WeatherCaster™ Software.................................................. 23

Large Compass & Digital Readout Screen................................. 29

Advanced Setup—Firmware Settings............................................32

Sensor Hardware.........................................................................32

Enable/Disable Functionality............................................... 34

Sensor Orientation................................................................ 37

Sensor Options...................................................................... 40

Calibrate Compass................................................................ 44

Calibrate Paddlewheel.......................................................... 47

NMEA 2000® Settings..........................................................49

Restore Factory Defaults.......................................................50

Communications/Diagnostics.....................................................51

NMEA 0183 Interface...........................................................52

NMEA 2000

® Interface........................................................ 54

Alarms.........................................................................................56

Names......................................................................................... 58

Update Flash............................................................................... 60

Running Multiple Copies of WeatherCaster™ Software...............62

Updates & Troubleshooting...........................................................54

Appendix—Technical Information................................................ 68

Introduction

WARNING

Navigation Aid Only—The WeatherCaster™ software is a

means to display weather and navigation data. It is an aid to navigation only and should never be solely relied upon. It is not a replacement for traditional navigation aids and techniques. Only official government charts contain all the information needed for safe navigation. As always, the enduser is responsible for their prudent use.

The WeatherCaster™ software allows you to communicate with your sensor(s) through a personal computer when your installation includes a Converter or a Combiner. Weather and navigation information is conveniently displayed on your PC in both analog and digital formats. WeatherCaster software is designed to work with the Microsoft

Windows® XP operating system.

Sensor Functions

The information displayed on the WeatherCaster screens will depend upon the sensor(s) that is installed and selected. Your WeatherCaster software may display some or all of the information below.

• Air temperature

• Apparent-wind direction

• Barometric pressure

•Dewpoint

• GPS satellites

• Heading

• Heat-index temperature

• Pitch and roll angle

• Relative humidity

•Time

• True-wind direction

• True-wind speed relative to speed through water

• Water depth

• Water speed

• Water temperature

• Wind-chill temperature 4

Installing WeatherCaster™ Software

Figure 1. Sensor Support CD Browser window

Figure 2. Sensor Support CD Browser install window

CAUTION: The screen resolution must be set at 1024 x 768 pixels for the WeatherCaster software to operate properly.

Installing the Application

1. Power your PC.

2. Insert the Airmar Sensor Support CD into the CD-ROM drive on your PC. The Sensor Support CD Browser window will appear (see Figure 1). Click the Install Software button.

3. A second Sensor Support CD Browser window will appear (see Figure 2). Click the Install Application button.

4. The WeatherCaster Installation Wizard window will appear (see Figure 3).

Figure 3. WeatherCaster Installation Wizard window

Figure 4. WeatherCaster License Agreement window

Click Next to continue.

5. The WeatherCaster License Agreement window will appear (see Figure 4). Click the “I accept the terms of the license agreement” button to accept the agreement, then click Next to continue.

6. The Choose Destination Location window will appear (see Figure 5). Follow the

Figure 5. Choose Destination Location window

Figure 6. Ready to Install and Setup Status windows

screen prompts. Click Next to continue.

7. The Ready to Install window will appear (see Figure 6). Click Install. The Setup Status window will be displayed while the WeatherCaster software is being installed.

8. The Installation Complete window will appear when the WeatherCaster

Figure 7. Installation Complete window

software has been successfully installed (see Figure 7). Click Finish. The Sensor Support CD Browser window will appear (see Figure 2).

NOTE: If you are replacing an older version of the WeatherCaster software with a new one, you can begin using it now. Do NOT install the device drivers again.

Installing the Drivers

IMPORTANT: Be sure the Airmar Sensor Support CD is inserted into the CDROM drive on your PC before the Combiner or Converter hardware is connected.

CAUTION: The driver installation is in TWO parts. Both drivers must be installed for the sensor to communicate with the WeatherCaster software.

CAUTION: If you are replacing an older version of the WeatherCaster software with

a new one, you can begin using it now. Do NOT install the device drivers again.

The first driver is the USB Controller Driver. It is needed to convert the USB data packets to a serial data stream. The second driver, the USB Communications Port Driver, makes the USB connection appear as a communications port in the Windows Device Manager. Note that you must choose the set of drivers that are compatible with the bit size of your operating system.

Choose 64 or 32-Bit Drivers

To determine the bit size of your operating system, go to Start\Settings\Control Panel\System and view the General tab. If the operating system is 32 bits, it may not be identified. However, if the operating system is 64 bits, it is probably identified.

If you are unable to determine the bit size of your operating system, choose Install 32-Bit Drivers first. If you see an error message saying your system requires the 64-bit version of DPInst.exe, then choose Install 64-Bit Drivers.

Copying the Device Drivers to the PC

Figure 8. Driver Installer and End User License Agreement windows

1. The Sensor Support CD Browser window will appear (see Figure 2). Click the appropriate Install Drivers button to begin the process of copying the Airmar device drivers to your PC.

2. The Driver Installer window will appear (see Figure 8). Click Next to continue.

3. The End User License Agreement window will follow (see Figure 8). Click the I accept this EULA button to accept the agreement. Click Next to continue.

4. The Please Wait window followed by the Software Installation caution window

Figure 9. Please Wait and Software Installation caution windows

Figure 10. Congratulations window

will appear (see Figure 9). The drivers are not Microsoft Windows

certified. However, they have been tested for stable and reliable operation. Click Continue Anyway to proceed with the installation.

5. When the Language File Replace window appears, click No To All.

6. The Please Wait and the Software Installation caution windows will appear again (see Figure 9). Click Continue Anyway to proceed with the installation.

7. Please wait while the copying takes place. When it is complete, the Congratulations window will appear (see Figure 10). Click Finish.

Installing the USB Controller Driver

Figure 11. Found New Hardware Wizard window

Figure 12. Found New Hardware Wizard window continued

1. Power the Converter or Combiner.

2. Plug the USB cable into an open USB port on your PC.

3. The Found New Hardware Wizard window will appear (see Figure 11). Click NO, not this time to allow the driver installation. Click Next to continue.

4. Another Found New Hardware Wizard window will appear (see Figure 12). Click Install the software automatically. Click Next to continue.

5. The Please Wait window followed by the Hardware Installation caution window

Figure 13. Please Wait window and Hardware Installation Caution window

Figure 14. Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard window

will appear (see Figure 13). The USB Controller Driver is not Microsoft Windows® certified, however, it has been tested for stable and reliable operation. Click Continue Anyway to proceed with the installation.

6. When the Language File Replace window appears, click the No To All button.

7. Another Found New Hardware Wizard window will appear (see Figure 14). Click Finish to install the USB Controller Driver. Then wait for the Found New Hardware Wizard window to appear again so that the second driver can be installed.

IMPORTANT: The new hardware wizard must run TWICE

Figure 15. “Your new hardware is installed and ready to use” icon

for a complete installation.

Installing the USB Communications Port Driver

1. When the Found New Hardware Wizard window appears again, it will guide you through the USB Communications Port Driver installation, repeating steps 3 and 6 beginning on page 11. When the installation is complete, some computers will display the Your new hardware is installed and ready to use icon in the bottom right of the taskbar (see Figure 15).

2. Close the browser window. Eject the Airmar Sensor Support CD and store it in a safe place.

NOTE: A new communications port will be assigned:

• If a different Converter/Combiner is connected

• If an existing Converter/Combiner is connected to a different

communications port

The New Hardware Wizard will need to run twice again. The Found New Hardware Wizard window will appear. Follow the prompts until both the USB Controller Driver and the USB Communications Port Driver are installed. When completed, some computers will display the Your new hardware is installed and ready to use icon in the bottom right of the taskbar (see Figure 15).

Setting Up WeatherCaster™ Software

Figure 16. WeatherCaster icon

Figure 17. Warning: Navigation Aid Only window

Figure 18. Sensor Communications Interface Setup window

NMEA 0183 interface

Searching for NMEA 2000

Gateway

After the WeatherCaster software is successfully installed, click the WeatherCaster icon on your PC’s desktop or Start>Program>Airmar>WeatherCaster (see Figure 16).

A window with the following warning will appear (see Figure 17). Click OK to continue.

When the WeatherCaster software starts for the first time, a Communications Interface Setup window will appear, similar to one of those shown below (see Figure 18). In the Select Interface dialogue box, chose either an NMEA 0183 or an NMEA 2000 button to the left of your choice.

NOTE: For the WeatherStation Instrument to communicate with WeatherCaster software, one of the following devices must be installed.

• NMEA 0183/RS485 to USB Data Converter

• NMEA 0183 Combiner

• NMEA 2000® CAN to USB Gateway

interface based upon the communication device installed. Click the

NMEA 0183 Interface

Figure 19. Identify the communications port

Auto Detect

If Auto Detect is chosen, all available communications ports and baud rates, starting with the selected port and baud rate, will be checked for a sensor response.

1. Click the Auto Detect button.

2. Click the Refresh Comm. Ports button.

3. Click Apply.

NOTE: The WeatherCaster software may not auto-detect the sensor if more than one NMEA 0183 device is connected to the computer. You may need to manually select the communications port.

Manually Select

If Manually Select is chosen, only the selected communications port and baud rate will be checked for a sensor response.

1. Click the Manually Select button.

2. Click the Refresh Comm. Ports button.

3. Using the drop-down menus, select the communications port that the Converter or Combiner is connected to and the corresponding baud rate.

• Converter: 4800

• Combiner: 38400

• Combiner purchased before Sept. 9, 2006: 57600

4. Click Apply. When the sensor is detected, the WeatherCaster screen will appear automatically.

NOTE: If you do not know to which communications port the Converter or Combiner is connected, click the PC’s Start button or right click My Computer. Go to Control Panel>System. On some computers, go to Settings>Control Panel>Printers and Other Hardware, then click System. In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab, then click Device Manager (see Figure 19). In the Device manager window, expand Ports by clicking the “+” button. Identify the communications port. In the Figure below, it is communications port 7 (com7).

No Sensor Detected

Figure 20. Communications and No Sensor Detected windows

If no sensor is found using the previously selected communication settings, the Communications Interface Setup window will appear with the message, No sensor detected with current communication settings. Then the No Sensor Detected window will ask for a decision (see Figure 20).

Choose Abort, Retry, or Ignore.

• If Abort is selected, none of the previously modified setting will be saved, and the Communications window will be re-displayed.

• If Retry is selected, another attempt to establish communication will be made.

• If Ignore is selected, the modified settings will be saved even though no communication has been established. On start-up, the WeatherCaster screen will appear.

NMEA 2000® Interface

Figure 21. Choose Gateway from drop-down menu

Figure 22. Select a sensor to perform each function

Communications Setup

When the NMEA 2000 Interface is selected, the WeatherCaster software will search for all recognized NMEA 2000 Gateways. Any located Gateways will be listed in the drop-down menu (see Figure 21). Select a Gateway. Click Refresh.

The NMEA 2000 connection will search for sensors that can perform any one or more of the functions recognized by the WeatherCaster software. The functions are listed in the Select Sources dialogue box (see Figure 22). If more than one sensor can perform a function, they will be listed on a drop-down menu to the right. Select a sensor for each function. If no sensor is found or desired, select none.

After all the selections have been made, click Apply (see Figure 23).

Figure 23. Apply sensor selections

Setup Screen

Figure 24. Setup Screen

SE 10

10 8

MPH

Knots KPH

MPS

When the WeatherCaster software opens, you will see a Setup screen with gauges and dials (see Figure 24). The gauges display the data being sent from the sensor in both analog and digital format. The dials along the left side are settings that can be changed by the user. This screen is for setting up the display only.

NOTE: Your screen may look different, depending upon the sensor(s) that is installed

Setting Dials

Wind Speed Setting Dial

This dial allows you to display wind speed in the following units of measure:

• MPH—Miles Per Hour

• Knots—1 Knot = 1.15 Miles Per Hour

• KPH—Kilometers Per Hour

• MPS—Meters Per Second

To change the setting, click the text to the right of the dial.

Background Color Dial

Steel

Blue

Night

Fahrenheit

Celsius

North Up

Course Up

Front/Bow Up

True

Magnetic

This dial allows you to choose the screen background.

•Steel

•Blue

• Night

To change the setting, click the text to the right of the dial.

Temperature Setting Dial

This dial allows you to display all of the temperature readings in the following units of measure:

• Fahrenheit

• Celsius

To change the setting, click the text to the right of the dial.

Compass Orientation Dial

This dial allows you to orient the compass display one of three ways.

• North Up—The traditional orientation in which north is displayed at the top of the compass. This orientation will provide true wind readings relative to North.

• Course Up—The orientation in which the direction of travel is displayed at the top of the compass. This orientation will provide true wind readings relative to the course of the vehicle/ vessel.

• Front/Bow Up—The top of the compass will display the direction that the

vehicle/bow is pointing. This orientation will provide wind readings relative to the front of the vehicle or bow of the boat. The compass will display 0 – 180° on the left/port side from front to back. And it will display 0 – 180° on the right/

starboard side from front to back. This setting is useful when the vehicle / vessel is underway, as it helps determine how the wind will affect the direction and speed.

To change the setting, click the text to the right of the dial.

True or Magnetic North Dial

This dial allows you to set the compass using either true or magnetic north.

• True North—The direction to the geographic North Pole

• Magnetic North—The direction to the magnetic North Pole

To change the setting, click the text to the right of the dial.

Barometric Pressure Setting Dial

inHg

mBars

hPa

Apparent Chill

True Chill

Feet

Meters

This dial allows you to display the barometric pressure in the following units of measure:

• inHg—Inches of Mercury

• mBars—Millibars

• hPa—HectoPascal To change the setting, click the text to the right

of the dial.

Wind Chill Setting Dial

This dial allows the sensor to calculate the wind chill temperature based on either apparent or true wind data.

• Apparent wind

•True wind To change the setting, click the text to the right

of the dial.

GMT Offset Dial

The Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) Offset Dial allows you to change the time clock, so it displays the time in your current location. After identifying your current Time Zone, change the setting by clicking on the number that corresponds to your Time Zone.

Log Time Interval Dial

The sensor saves data for a set period of time, 72 hours. This dial allows you to choose the length of time that data will be displayed. The log time can be adjusted in six-hour intervals from 6 – 72 hours. To change the setting, click the number that corresponds to the length of time that you would like data to be displayed.

Water Depth Setting Dial

This dial allows you to display the water depth reading in the following units of measure:

•Feet

•Meters To change the setting, click the text to the right

of the dial.

Exit Button

To exit WeatherCaster, click Exit.

Advanced Setup Button

To change settings in the sensor firmware, click Advanced Setup.

Previous Arrow

To return to the previous display screen, click the Previous arrow. (The Weather-Caster software has three screens.)

Minimize and Exit Buttons

To minimizes the screen, click Min. Close the WeatherCaster application by clicking Exit.

Next Arrow

To move to the next display screen, click the Next arrow. (The WeatherCaster software has three screens.)

Using WeatherCaster™ Software

WARNING

Navigation Aid Only—The WeatherCaster™ software is a

The WeatherCaster software has three display screens. To move between screens, click the Next or the Previous arrow in the top right corner of the screen.

• Setup Screen—This screen contains gauges with dials along the left side. The dials have settings that can be changed by the user (see Figure 24).

• Analog Gauge Screen—This screen displays the data being sent from the sensor(s) on gauges in both analog and digital formats (see Figure 25).

• Large Compass and Digital Readout Screen—This screen displays a large compass on the left and data being sent from the sensor(s) in digital format on the right (see Figure 26 on page 29).

Analog Gauge Screen

Figure 25. Analog Gauge Screen

Gauges display the data being sent from the sensor(s) (see Figure 25). Each gauge displays data in both analog and digital formats.

High and Low Readings

Some gauges display a colored arc. A blue arc shows the lowest reading within a 24 hour period. A red arc show the highest reading within a 24 hour period. White space between a blue and a red arc shows the range of the readings within a 24 hour period. Blue and red arcs may appear on all gauges except the Pitch and Roll gauge, the Compass, the Barometric Pressure gauge, and the Time clock.

Displaying Historical Data

You can view historical data for each gauge except the Pitch and Roll gauge, the Compass, and the Time clock. When you right click on a gauge, a graph will appear. The graph displays the unit of measure on the left and time at the bottom. A red line will indicate the history.

Gauges

Wind Chill

–20

–40

–60

–80

9:00AM 12:00PM

Heat Index

140

120

100

9:00AM

12:00PM

100

9:00AM 12:00PM

Air

Temperature

9:00AM 12:00PM

120

100

Apparent Wind

(Front/ Bow)

Wind Chill Gauge

This gauge uses a needle to indicate the wind chill temperature with a digital readout at the bottom. Note that Wind Chill information only appears when the air temperature is less than 10°C (50° F) and the wind speed is greater than 2.6Kn (3MPH). If there is an active humidity sensor, the Wind Chill gauge will be replace by the Heat Index gauge when the air temperature is at least 26.7°C (80° F) and the relative humidity is greater than 40%.

To view historical wind chill data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the Wind Chill gauge, right click the graph.

Heat Index Gauge

This gauge uses a needle to indicate the heat index temperature with a digital readout at the bottom. Note that Heat Index data appears only when the air temperature is at least 26.7°C (80°F) and the relative humidity is greater than 40%.

To view historical heat index data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the Heat Index gauge, right click the graph.

Air Temperature Gauge

This gauge uses a needle to indicate the air temperature. There is also a digital readout at the bottom.

To view historical air temperature data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the Air Temperature gauge, right click the graph.

Apparent Wind Gauge

This gauge uses needles to indicate the apparent wind speed and direction relative to the front of a vehicle or bow of a boat. The long needle points to the wind speed, and the short needle points to the wind direction. There is also a digital readout at the bottom.

To view historical apparent wind speed data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the Apparent Wind gauge, right click the graph.

True Wind Gauge

9:00AM 12:00PM

True Wind

(North)

Pitch and Roll

Compass

This gauge uses needles to indicate the true wind speed and direction relative to north. The long needle points to the wind speed, and the short needle points to the wind direction. There is also a digital readout at the bottom.

To view historical, true wind speed data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the True Wind gauge, right click the graph.

Pitch and Roll Gauge

This gauge uses arrows to indicate pitch and roll. The average angle of pitch and the average angle of roll is displayed digitally in degrees.

NOTE: For pitch and roll values to be completely accurate in a boat, the sensor would need to be installed at the vessel’s center of gravity—at the waterline. However this is not recommended because it would interfere with GPS and weather readings. Remember that the higher the sensor is above the waterline, the greater the error in the pitch and roll readouts.

Compass

The Compass displays the true wind direction, the apparent wind direction, and the heading. No historical data is collected.

• Apparent wind direction is indicated by a black/white needle and a black/white digital readout on the left of the gauge. The port and starboard indicators (P and S) always appear regardless of the compass orientation.

• True wind direction is indicated by a red/green needle and a red digital readout on the right of the gauge.

• Heading is displayed as a blue arrow in the center of the gauge and indicates the direction that the vehicle/vessel is moving. The heading is also digitally displayed in the lower center in blue.

• Port and Starboard Indicators appear when the Compass is orientated in the Front/Bow Up mode. A letter “P” representing Port or an “S” representing Starboard will be displayed to the right of both the true wind direction and the apparent wind direction digits. The letters reference where the wind is coming from relative to the front of the vehicle/bow of the vessel.

Barometric Pressure

9:00AM 12:00PM

Barometric Pressure

29.5

28.5

27.5

30.5

31.5

GPS Satellites

9:00AM 12:00PM

Dewpoint

100

This gauge uses a black/white needle to indicate the current barometric pressure. A red needle is the reference marker. By aligning the red needle with the black/white needle, it is possible to see changes in barometric pressure over time. A digital readout of the current barometric pressure is found at the bottom of the gauge.

Left click and hold the mouse over the red reference needle to align it with the black/white needle. To view historical barometric readings, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. The red line indicates the barometric pressure over a period of time. The green dot indicates when the reference needle was set. To return to the Barometric Pressure gauge, right click the graph.

GPS Satellite Gauge

This gauge uses a long needle to indicate the number of satellites in view. The short needle indicates how many satellites are being used in the calculation to determine current position. There is also a digital readout at the bottom. The numeral on the left indicates the number of satellites in view. The numeral on the right indicates the number of satellites used to calculate a fix.

NOTE: Four or more satellites are required for a 3-D fix.

To view historical GPS data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the GPS Satellite gauge, right click the graph.

Dewpoint Gauge

This gauge uses a needle to indicate the dewpoint temperature. There is also a digital readout at the bottom.

To view historical dew point data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the Dewpoint gauge, right click the graph.

Relative Humidity Gauge

Relative Humidity

9:00AM 12:00PM

100

9:00AM 12:00PM

Water Speed

100

9:00AM 12:00PM

True Wind

(Water)

100

This gauge uses a needle to indicate the relative humidity as a percentage. There is also a digital readout at the bottom.

To view historical humidity data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the Relative Humidity gauge, right click the graph.

Water Speed Gauge

This gauge will appear only if you have installed a sensor measuring speed through the water, and it is connected through an optional Combiner. The gauge uses a needle to indicate speed through the water. There is also a digital readout at the bottom.

To view historical water speed data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the Water Speed gauge, right click the graph.

True Wind Speed Relative to Speed Through Water Gauge

This gauge will appear only if you have installed a sensor measuring speed through the water, and the sensor is connected through an optional Combiner. True wind speed relative to speed through water cannot be calculated using GPS readings.

The gauge uses needles to indicate true wind speed and direction relative to north, based on speed through water. The long needle points to the wind speed, and the short needle points to the wind direction. There is also a digital readout at the bottom.

To view historical data, right click the gauge. A graph will appear as shown. To return to the True Wind Relative to Water gauge, right click the graph.

Large Compass & Digital Readout Screen

Figure 26. Large Compass and Digital Readout Screen

To view the Large Compass and Digital Readout Screen, click the Next arrow at the top right of the display. This screen shows a large compass on the left and readings in digital format on the right (see Figure 26). This screen does not display historical data.

Compass

The Compass displays the true wind direction, the apparent wind direction, and the heading (see Figure 26).

• Apparent wind direction is indicated by a black needle and a black digital

readout on the left of the gauge.

• True wind direction is indicated by a red needle and a red digital readout on

the right of the gauge.

• Heading is displayed as a blue arrow in the center of the gauge and indicates

the direction that the vehicle / vessel is moving. The heading is also digitally displayed in the lower center in blue.

• Port and starboard Indicators appear when the Compass is orientated in the

Front/Bow Up mode. A letter “P” representing Port or an “S” representing Starboard will be displayed to the right of both the true wind direction and the apparent wind direction digits. The letters reference where the wind is coming from relative to the front of the vehicle/bow of the vessel.

Digital Readings

The right side of the screen displays some or all of the following readings depending upon the sensor(s) installed and selected (see Figure 26):

• Apparent wind speed and direction relative to the front / bow

• True wind speed and direction relative to north

• Air temperature

• Wind chill temperature or heat index temperature— The heat index

temperature will appear only if a humidity sensor is present and the air temperature is at least 26.7°C (80°F) and the relative humidity is greater than 40%.

• Barometric pressure

• Time—Displayed in a 12 and a 24 hour format

• Relative humidity

• Dewpoint

• Water speed—It will appear only if you have installed a sensor measuring

speed through the water, and it is connected through an optional Combiner.

• True wind relative to water—It will appear only if you have installed a sensor

measuring speed through the water, and it is connected to a Combiner.

Data Boxes

1. 2.

5. 6.

Figure 27. Data boxes

15– 20 knots Small Craft Gale Warning Tropical Storm

Warning

Hurricane Warning

Warning

Figure 28. Wind-speed icons

There are seven data boxes at the top of each screen (see Figure 27).

1. This box displays the WeatherCaster software version number as well as the model number and serial number / name of the sensor that is currently being monitored.

2. This box displays the firmware version that is installed within the sensor itself.

3. This box displays the vehicle/ vessel ‘s current position on the globe in latitude and longitude as determined using GPS. The average angle of pitch and the average angle of roll is displayed digitally in degrees.

4. This box displays the vehicle/ vessel ’s speed over ground (SOG) and course over ground (COG) which is calculated using GPS. If you have an Airmar Smart Sensor connected through an optional Combiner, it will also display water depth and water temperature.

5. This box displays the wind-speed icon that relates to the actual wind speed. The icon will change as the wind speed increases or decreases. A wind sock indicates a wind speed of 0 to 20 knots, while a flag indicates higher wind (see Figure 28).

6. This icon indicates if the GPS inside the sensor has a satellite fix. When the icon is flashing, there is no GPS fix. A stable icon (no flashing) indicates a fix.

• 2D indicates a 2D fix.

• 3D indicates a 3D fix.

• SD indicates the unit has a satellite differential fix, either WAAS or EGNOS.

7. This icon will appear only when the air temperature is below 0° C (32° F).

Advanced Setup—Firmware Settings

Figure 29. Advanced Setup window

NMEA 0183 interface

NMEA 2000

interface

Figure 30. Advanced Setup window—Source Sensor drop-down menu

The firmware resides within the sensor itself and is separate from the WeatherCaster software. To access these firmware settings, click the Advanced Setup button found at the top right of each WeatherCaster screen.

There are tabs at the top of the Advanced Setup window (see Figure 29). Click a tab to access the relevant window. At any time, return to the WeatherCaster display screen by clicking the Close button.

Sensor Hardware

Information about your sensor and its software is displayed in the box on the left of the Sensor Hardware screen (see Figure 29).

NMEA 2000 Interface—Since more than one sensor may be connected, you must choose a source sensor. Select any available sensor from the Source Sensor, dropdown menu. (see Figure 30). Note that a Source Sensor is identified by its function. If a WeatherStation Instrument is available, it will be the default sensor, and it will be identified as Weather. The actual sensor associated with each function is defined by the user through the Communications Interface.

After a Source Sensor has been selected, its detailed information including the

Figure 31. Advanced Setup window—Source Sensor selected

Figure 32. Self-test Results window

Self-Test Status and results is updated. The data is displayed on the Advanced Setup window, Sensor Hardware tab (see Figure 31).

NOTE: Any sensor setups such as Sensor Orientation, Sensor Options, and Restore Factory Defaults are made to the currently selected Source Sensor.

Self-test Status

Your sensor performs a self-test each time the unit is powered ON. Click Details to check the results of a self-test. A Self-test Results window will appear (see Figure 32). Click OK to continue.

Enable/Disable Functionality

Figure 33. NMEA 0183 Display Settings window

You can enable or disable the NMEA 0183 sentence commands or NMEA 2000 PGN commands sent by the sensor and modify the rate of transmission. In the Advance Setup window on the Sensor Hardware tab, click the Enable/Disable Functionality button to access the window (see Figure 29). To learn more, go to either the “NMEA 0183 Interface” section below or the “NMEA 2000 Interface” section on the following page.

NOTE: The Bandwidth Used cannot exceed 100%. Reduce one or more intervals until the color is yellow.

• Green Adequate bandwidth

• Yellow Approaching maximum bandwidth (may lose some data)

• Red Maximum bandwidth exceeded

Click Defaults to return to the factory settings. Click Save to accept the changes. Note that the Save button is enabled only after changes have been made.

NMEA 0183 Interface

You can enable or disable each of the NMEA 0183 sentences sent by the sensor and specify the number of seconds between the transmission of each sentence. As you change the interval, the hertz (Hz) transmission rate will also change.

• Display Settings—Not Using WeatherCaster Software Select the NMEA 0183 Display Settings tab to modify settings when not using the WeatherCaster software (see Figure 33). These settings will be in effect whenever the sensor is powered ON.

• PC Settings—Using WeatherCaster Software

Figure 34. PC Settings window

Figure 35. Advanced Setup window—Source Sensor drop-down menu

In the Enable/Disable Functionality window, click the PC Settings tab to modify the settings when you are using the sensor with the WeatherCaster software running (see Figure 34). The settings will remain in effect even after the sensor is powered OFF and ON again when the WeatherCaster software is running.

NMEA 2000 Interface

You can modify the transmission rate and priority of the NMEA 2000 PGNs for each selected sensor. In the Advance Setup window on the Sensor Hardware tab, select a source sensor(s) from the drop-down menu (see Figure 35).

NOTE: One sensor may report multiple functions. For example, a DST200 may

Figure 36. Advanced Setup window—Source Sensor DST200 identified

PASS

by its Water Speed function only.

Figure 37. Enable/Disable Functionality window

give water depth, water speed, and water temperature data. However, this Source Sensor will be identified in the drop-down menu by only one of its functions (see Figure 36).

In the Enable/ Disable Functionality window, you can modify the PGN settings of any or all of the selected sensors at the same time (see Figure 37) As the interval changes, the Hz transmission rate will also change.

If the functionality to report the current PGN setting is not supported, the

Figure 38. Enable/Disable Functionality window—not supported

Figure 39. Sensor Orientation window

WeatherCaster software will not allow the PGN settings to be modified. A window similar to the one below will be displayed (see Figure 38)

Sensor Orientation

Depending upon the mounting location of the sensor, the azimuth, pitch, and/or roll settings may need to be changed. Click the Sensor Orientation button to access the window (see Figure 29). To change a setting, click Change and follow the screen instructions (see Figure 39). To return all settings to zero, click Zero. For help in setting the azimuth, pitch, and roll, click Run Assistant. To save changes, click Save.

Azimuth Offset

Figure 40. Azimuth Offset window

Figure 41. Pitch Offset window

If the sensor is not installed pointing forward and parallel to the desired centerline /

keel, enter the offset angle in the text box (see Figure 40). (To calculate the azimuth offset angle, compare the sensor’s compass reading to an independent compass reading.) To return the setting to zero, click Zero. Click OK to accept the change.

Pitch Offset

If the sensor is not installed truly vertical relative to the front-back axis, enter the pitch offset angle in the text box (see Figure 41). (To measure the pitch offset angle, place an angle finder against the side of the sensor and facing either forward or backward.) To return the setting to zero, click Zero. Click OK to accept the change.

Roll Offset

Figure 42. Roll Offset window

Figure 43. Azimuth Offset window

If the sensor is not installed truly vertical relative to the left-right axis, enter the roll offset angle in the text box (see Figure 42). (To measure the roll offset angle, place an angle finder against the side of the sensor and facing either left or right.) To return the setting to zero, click Zero. Click OK to accept the change.

Run Assistant

For help in setting the azimuth, pitch, and roll offset angles, click Run Assistant in the Sensor Orientation window (see Figure 39).

The Azimuth Orientation window will open (see Figure 43). If the sensor is not installed with the alignment tabs or the word “forward” pointing forward and parallel to the centerline of the vehicle/vessel, enter the offset angle in the text box. (To calculate the azimuth offset angle, compare the sensor’s compass reading to an independent compass reading.) To return the setting to zero, click Zero. Click OK to accept the change and continue.

The Pitch and Roll Offset window will open (see Figure 44). Follow the screen

Figure 44. Pitch and Roll Offset window

Figure 45. Altitude options window

instructions and the sensor will compensate for the pitch and roll. To return the setting to zero, click Zero. Click OK to accept the change and continue.

Sensor Options

It is possible to make choices that will affect how the sensor makes some calculations. In the Advanced Setup window, click the Sensor Options button. When the window opens, click the tab at the top to access the Altitude, GPS, True Wind, Damping, Depth, and Temperature options windows (see Figure 29).

Altitude

A fixed altitude setting can be used to calculate a more accurate GPS position when it is operating in the 2D mode and a more accurate barometric pressure reading (see Figure 45). In the Fixed Altitude field, enter an altitude relative to sea level from 0 to 10000.00 to the nearest 0.01 meter.

• GPS Position Calculations—To calculate a more accurate 2D fix, an altitude

Figure 46. GPS options window

offset can be programed into the sensor. Enter an altitude in the Fixed Altitude field. Select Use Fixed Altitude Until 3D Fix Acquired.

• MDA Barometric Pressure Options—You can enable correcting for altitude

when the altitude is not available due to the GPS not having a 3D fix. Enter an altitude in the Fixed Altitude field. Select Use Fixed Altitude When GPS Altitude Unavailable.

For more information, click Help. To accept the change(s), click Save.

GPS (see Figure 46)

• GPS Options—It is possible to restrict the operation of the GPS to only allow

3D fixes. By selecting Use 3D Fix Only, the sensor will not report a fix until it has achieved a 3D fix. To re-enable the automatic selection of 2D versus 3D fix calculations, click the Automatically Select 2D/3D Fixes button.

• WAAS Options—If the internal GPS receiver is WAAS enabled, the WAAS

options will be available. WAAS enabled GPS receivers utilize the Wide Area Augmentation System to provide more accurate positioning data. Select either the Disable or Enable Report Fixes As Differential button.

For more information, click Help. To accept the change(s), click Save.

True Wind

Figure 47. True Wind Options options window

Figure 48. Damping options window

Course-Over-Ground (COG) is used to calculate the True Wind direction and speed. To disable the use of COG and substitute the internal compass heading in the calculation, un-click the check box (see Figure 47). For more information, click Help. To accept the change, click Save.

Damping

Damping is used to control electronic noise for more accurate pitch and roll and compass. readings. To change a damping coefficient, enter the number in the appropriate text box (see Figure 48). For more information, click Help. To accept the change, click Save.

Depth

Figure 49. Depth options window

Figure 50. Temperature options window

You can modify the depth reading to compensate for the distance between the transducer’s face and the water surface or a part of the keel (see Figure 49). Enter a positive value if the transducer’s face is below the waterline. If you want to measure depth from the bottom of the keel, enter a negative value to compensate for the distance between the transducer’s face and the bottom of the keel. To return the setting to zero, click Zero. To accept the change, click Save.

Temperature

You can modify the water temperature reading (see Figure 50). Enter a positive value to report a temperature higher than what is measured. Enter a negative value to report a temperature lower than what is measured. To return the setting to zero, click Zero. To accept the change, click Save.

Compass Calibration

Figure 51. Compass Calibration Step 1

Figure 52. Step 2

Most Airmar sensors with an internal compass must be calibrated for maximum accuracy. (Your sensor/instrument owner’s guide will specify if this is required.) There are two ways to calibrate the compass; auto calibration and commanded calibration. Commanded calibration uses the WeatherCaster software.

In the Advanced Setup window on the Sensor Hardware tab, select the Source Sensor (see Figure 29). Click Compass Calibration to begin. The Compass Calibration window will appear (see Figure 51). Follow Step 1. Click Next to continue or Cancel to stop.

Follow Step 2 (see Figure 52). Click Next to continue or Cancel to stop.

If you clicked Next, calibration will begin and the Calibration in Progress window

Figure 53. Calibration in Progress window

Figure 54. Cancel Confirmation window

Figure 55. Cancellation notification window

will appear (see Figure 53).

If you choose to cancel calibration, click Cancel. You will be asked to verify your selection in the Cancel Confirmation window (see Figure 54).

A Calibration Finished window will notify you of the cancellation (see Figure 55).

Likewise, if the compass calibration stops due to a calibration error or a time-out

Figure 56. Calibration Finished error window

Figure 57. Calibration successfully completed window

error, a notification window will appear similar to the one shown below (see Figure 56). To restart the calibration, click Restart.

When the compass calibration is completed successfully, a notification window will appear (see Figure 57).

Paddlewheel Calibration/ Water Speed Calibration

Figure 58. Paddlewheel Calibration Step 1

Figure 59. Paddlewheel Calibration Step 2

The paddlewheel can be calibrated if the Water Speed sensor is selected and a GPS device is available and selected for use. In the Advanced Setup window on the Sensor Hardware tab, select the Source Sensor, Water Speed (see Figure 36). On the Communications/Diagnostics tab select a GPS device (see Figure 65). Return to the Sensor Hardware tab and click Paddlewheel Calibration to begin. The Paddlewheel Calibration window will appear (see Figure 58). Follow Step 1. Click Calibrate to adjust the calibration table, Restore to return to the factory default setting, or Cancel to stop.

Follow Step 2 (see Figure 59). Click Start to begin the process or Cancel to stop.

If you clicked Start, the Collecting Data window will appear (see Figure 60). Click

Figure 60. Collecting Data window

Figure 61. Calibration Complete window

Cancel to stop.

If the paddlewheel calibration stops due to a calibration error or a time-out error, a notification window will appear. To restart the calibration, click Restart.

When the calibration has been completed successfully the Calibration Complete window will appear (see Figure 61).

If you click Restore, the Confirm Restore window will appear (see Figure 62).

Figure 62. Confirm Restore window

Figure 63. NMEA 2000 Settings window

NMEA 2000® Settings

You can alter the NMEA 2000 settings. In the Advanced Setup window on the Sensor Hardware tab, click NMEA 2000 Settings to begin (see Figure 29). The Sensor NMEA 2000 Settings window will appear (see Figure 63).

• Address Claim Parameters lets you set the device instance used in the

address claim name when transmitting the address claim PGN.

• Configuration Information allows you to set modifiable parameters in the

Configuration Information PGN.

Restore Factory Defaults

Figure 64. Advanced Setup and Confirm Reset windows (NMEA 0183 interface shown)

In the Advanced Setup window, all settings can be returned to the factory defaults by clicking Restore Factory Defaults (see Figure 64). Before the default settings are restored, the Confirm Reset window will appear. Click OK to accept the default settings.

Communications/Diagnostics

Figure 65. Sensor Communications Interface Setup window

NMEA 0183 interface

Searching for NMEA 2000

Gateway

Communication to a sensor can be set-up or modified. In the Advanced Setup window, click the Communications/Diagnostics tab to access the Communications window (see Figure 29).

The WeatherCaster software is designed to auto-detect the last known communications interface setup. If the interface was last set to NMEA 0183, the WeatherCaster software will attempt to find and connect to a sensor using the communication port last selected. If the interface was last set to NMEA 2000 protocol, WeatherCaster software will attempt to find and communicate with the last selected PC/NMEA 2000 gateway and then to the last selected NMEA 2000 sensors.

If the previous interface is not currently available or it is undetected, a Communications Interface Setup window will be displayed, similar to one of those shown below (see Figure 65). In the Select Interface dialogue box, chose either an NMEA 0183 or an NMEA 2000 choice.

interface by clicking the button to the left of your

NMEA 0183 Interface

Figure 66. Identify the communications port

Auto Detect

If Auto Detect is chosen, all available communications ports and baud rates, starting with the selected port and baud rate, will be checked for a sensor response.

1. Click the Auto Detect button.

2. Click the Refresh Comm. Ports button.

3. Click Apply.

NOTE: The WeatherCaster software may not auto-detect the sensor if more than one NMEA 0183 device is connected to the computer. You may need to manually select the communications port.

Manually Select

If Manually Select is chosen, only the selected communications port and baud rate will be checked for a sensor response.

1. Click the Manually Select button.

2. Click the Refresh Comm. Ports button.

3. Using the drop-down menus, select the communications port that the Converter

or Combiner is connected to and the corresponding baud rate.

• NMEA 0183 to USB Data Converter: 4800 Baud Rate

• NMEA 0183 to USB Combiner: 38400 Baud Rate

• Combiner purchased before Sept. 9, 2006: 57600 Baud Rate

4. Click Apply. When the sensor is detected, the WeatherCaster screen will

appear automatically.

NOTE: If you do not know to which communications port the Converter or Combiner is connected, click the PC’s Start button or right click My Computer. Go to Control Panel>System. On some computers, go to Settings>Control Panel>Printers and Other Hardware, then click System. In the System Properties window, click the Hardware tab, then click Device Manager (see Figure 66). In the Device manager window, expand Ports by clicking the “+” button. Identify the communications port. In the Figure below, it is communications port 7 (com7).

No Sensor Detected

Figure 67. Communications and No Sensor Detected windows

If no sensor is found using the previously selected communication settings, the Communications Interface Setup window will appear with the message, “No sensor detected with current communication settings.” Then the No Sensor Detected window will ask for a decision (see Figure 67).

Choose Abort, Retry, or Ignore.

• If Abort is selected, none of the previously modified setting will be saved, and

the Communications window will be redisplayed.

• If Retry is selected, another attempt to establish communication will be made.

• If Ignore is selected, the modified settings will be saved even though no

communication has been established. On start-up, the WeatherCaster screen will appear.

NMEA 2000® Interface

Figure 68. NMEA 2000 Device View button on the

Communications Interface Setup window

Figure 69 .NMEA 2000 Device Information window

Communications Setup (see pages 17 - 18)

Device View

You can see detailed information about the Gateway selected. Click NMEA 2000 Device View in the Communications Interface Setup window (see Figure 68).

View information about the Gateway (see Figure 69). To return to the Advanced Setup window, click Close.

Raw Data Logging

Raw data logging can also be enabled using the Communications / Diagnostics window (see Figure 66). When raw data logging is enabled, all data received from the attached sensor is logged to a data file. The name of the file will be mmm_dd_yyyy_sn_0183.LOG.

• mmm is the month the data was received

• dd is the day the data was received

• yyyy is the year the data was received

• sn is either the serial number of the sensor (if known) or the port assigned to

the sensor.

A new raw data log file will be created for each new serial number/port and for each new day. The data within the log file will be in text format.

Click the check box in front of “Log Raw Data to” and select the desired path of the log files. Then click Apply. To disable raw data logging, uncheck the box to the left of “Log Raw Data to” and then click Apply.

Alarms

Figure 70. Alarms window

WeatherCaster software can be used to set alarms for wind speed, water depth, and barometric pressure. The user can turn alarms ON or OFF as well as define the value that will cause an alarm to be displayed (see Figure 70).

• Wind Speed Alarm—The Wind Speed Alarm can be set for either apparent or

true wind. If the alarm is ON and the wind speed exceeds the alarm value set, an alarm message will be displayed.

• Water Depth Alarm—If the Water Depth Alarm is ON and the water depth is

less than the alarm value set, an alarm message will be displayed.

• Barometric Pressure Alarm—If the Barometric Pressure Alarm is ON and the

barometric pressure is less than the alarm value set, an alarm message will be displayed.

Click the Alarms tab in the Advanced Setup window (see Figure 29). Follow the screen prompts. To accept each change, click Apply.

Alarm Notification (see Figure 71)

Figure 71. Alarm Notification window

Figure 72. Alarm Notification window

• If the Acknowledge button is clicked and the reading no longer exceeds the

alarm limit, the Alarm window will close.

• If the Acknowledge button is clicked but the reading continues to exceed the

alarm limit, the alarm window will close, then re-display in 10 seconds.

• To temporarily silence an alarm (snooze), enter the number of minutes the

alarm is to be silenced before it re-displays. Click the Silence button.

• If the user does NOT click the Acknowledge button but the alarm is cleared

either by disabling it on the Alarm tab of the Advanced Setup window or because the reading no longer exceeds the alarm limit, a notification window will appear (see Figure 72).

Names

Figure 73. Sensor designation

Figure 74. Names window

When a sensor is detected by the WeatherCaster software, it is identified by its serial number. However, a sensor can be given a name. This is useful to easily identify the origin of data, if more than one sensor will be operating at the same time. The name or serial number (if no name is assigned) will be displayed in the upper left corner of the WeatherCaster screen (see Figure 73).

To add, change, or delete names, open the Advanced Setup window and click the Names tab (see Figure 29). Follow the screen prompts (see Figure 74). To accept the changes, click Apply.

NOTE: The user is allowed to modify sensor names from any instance of the WeatherCaster software. The new name for the currently connected sensor will be automatically displayed. However, if other WeatherCaster instances are currently running, the new sensor names associated with those instances will not be automatically viewable. The other sensor name changes will become effective upon starting a new instance of WeatherCaster for that sensor.

Storage Identifier

It is possible to identify the origin of historical data that is stored and displayed by the WeatherCaster software. In the Storage Identifier area of the Names window, you can choose to store data by sensor serial number, by sensor name, or with no identifier (see Figure 74). Click the appropriate button and click Apply to accept the choice.

NOTE: If multiple instances of the WeatherCaster software are running, the sensor in use must be identified by a serial number or a name.

Deleting a Sensor & Its Stored Historical Information

CAUTION: It is recommended that only sensors that are no longer in service be deleted.

The Names screen also allows the user to delete all stored information for any sensor (see Figure 74). Select the desired serial number from the Serial Number field and click Delete. That sensor and all the data associated with it will be deleted. However, if another instance of the WeatherCaster software is currently connected to the sensor being deleted and the sensor is still running, the WeatherCaster software controlling it will reinitialize that sensor’s information and begin collecting historical data.

Update Flash

Updating WeatherStation Firmware

Periodically, Airmar may release updated versions of the WeatherStation’s firmware that resides within the sensor itself. (This software is separate from the WeatherCaster software.) The latest version of the firmware with updates and enhancements will be available for download from Airmar’s website at www.airmar.com, or a CD can be mailed by Airmar’s technical support personnel.

CAUTION: NMEA 0183 Turn OFF or disconnect all other NMEA 0183 devices from any Airmar Combiner. Be sure the sensor is the only active device connected to the Combiner.

CAUTION: NMEA 2000 Airmar strongly recommends that you limit the number of NMEA 2000 sensors powered and communicating on the same NMEA 2000 communication bus.

CAUTION: Be sure the most recent version of the WeatherCaster software is installed.

CAUTION: Be sure the drivers for any Converter or Combiner are installed.

CAUTION: Be sure there are no applications running on the computer.

CAUTION: Do not interrupt the power while programming is in process. Avoid

using a laptop that is being powered by its battery or a computer with a screen saver that causes hibernation.

CAUTION: Do not exit the sensor while programing is in process.

NOTE: If you have both a Converter and a Combiner, the flash update will be faster using the Converter.

1. Download the sensor firmware file.

2. Launch the WeatherCaster software.

3. Click the Advanced Setup button in the upper right corner of the

WeatherCaster display screen.

4. When the Advanced Setup window opens, click the Update Flash tab (see

Figure 29).

5. Click Select File (see Figure 75). In the Open dialog box, browse to the sensor

Figure 75. Advanced Setup window with Update Flash tab

and Open window

flash file to be used. The file name will end in ”.ax”. Click Open.

6. When the Setup dialog indicates “READY to PROGRAM”, click the PROGRAM

button to perform the flash update. When the flash update has been completed, there will be two status messages. The window will say “PROGRAMING COMPLETE” followed by “EEPROM FORMATTING COMPLETE.”

Wait several seconds for the WeatherCaster software to establish communication with the sensor. When you are finished updating the flash memory in all sensors, click OK to go to a WeatherCaster display screen.

NOTE: If you are unable to update the flash, select a Baud Rate from the dropdown menu and try again.

Running Multiple Copies of WeatherCaster Software

Figure 76. WeatherCaster confirmation window

Figure 77. WeatherCaster name/serial number in Windows taskbar

It is possible to run multiple copies of the WeatherCaster software simultaneously (i.e. multiple instances). You would do this if you want to use more than one sensor at the same time.

To start the first instance, double click the WeatherCaster icon on your PC’s desktop or Start>Program>Airmar>WeatherCaster. When the WeatherCaster screen is displayed, an additional instance of the WeatherCaster software may be started by double clicking the WeatherCaster icon again. (If necessary, use the Min button to minimize the current WeatherCaster screen first.) When the additional instance of the WeatherCaster software is started, a prompt will appear to verify (see Figure 76). Click Yes.

If it is the first time this additional WeatherCaster instance has been started, the communications port and baud rate must be setup (see “Communications /

Diagnostics” on page 51).

Although it is possible to run multiple instances of the WeatherCaster software simultaneously, only one instance will be visible at a time. To view a different instance, minimize the current WeatherCaster screen by clicking the Min button. Then select the desired WeatherCaster instance from the Windows Taskbar (see Figure 77).

NOTE: It is possible to determine which sensor is being monitored by checking the serial number/name in the upper left corner of the WeatherCaster screen.

If you close one of the WeatherCaster instances, the next time you double click on the WeatherCaster icon, the first available instance will be started. For example, if there are three instances of the WeatherCaster software running simultaneously and instance B is closed, it may be restarted by simply double clicking the WeatherCaster icon. However, if both instances A and B are closed, the next time the WeatherCaster icon is double clicked instance A will be started. It is important to note that each instance will try to connect to the same communications port that it used previously. This should provide the connection to the same sensor as before. However, due to the flexible nature of the system, verify that the desired sensor is being monitored by checking in the upper left corner of the WeatherCaster screen.

Updates & Troubleshooting

WeatherCaster Software Updates

Periodically, Airmar will release updated versions of the WeatherCaster software and sensor firmware. Updates can be downloaded from Airmar’s web site www.airmar.com or contact Airmar’s technical support personnel for a CD.

The current version of your firmware is displayed in the second Data Box at the top of the WeatherCaster software screen (see Figure 73). A1 refers to the application firmware within the sensor. If your sensor has two microprocessors, A2 refers to the second firmware application. B1 and B2 refer to the bootloader firmware. When performing a flash update, only the application firmware will be uploaded. The bootloader version will not change. To install an updated version of the sensor firmware, follow the instructions “Update Flash” in the “Advanced Setup” window.

PC Problems

No Data On Communications Port

If the sensor is connected to a specific communications port but no data is observed, there are two possible causes. If you updated flash, it may have been incomplete. Repeat “Update Flash” in the “Advanced Setup” window (see Figure 29).

It may be necessary to reboot the communications port. This is especially effective if many different devices have been connected and disconnected from the PC, thus assigning many different communications ports. Follow the steps below.

1. From the Start menu, select Control Panel, or right click My Computer.

2. Select the System option.

3. Select the Hardware tab.

4. Select Device Manager.

5. Select Ports.

6. Right click on the Airmar port and select Disable.

7. Wait 10 seconds, then right click on the Airmar port and select Enable.

8. Close all open windows and try to run the WeatherCaster software again.

NOTE: On some computers click Start. Go to Settings>Control Panel>Printers and Other Hardware, then click System.

Setting the Display Resolution to 1024 X 768 Pixels

When using the WeatherCaster software on a computer with a display resolution of more than 1024 x 768 pixels (e.g. 800 x 600), the window will be truncated on the right side and bottom edges. The exit buttons will therefore be hidden from view. If this happens, you can exit the WeatherCaster software by pressing the key combination <alt>-F4 (i.e. while pressing and holding the Alt key, press and release the F4 key). If the display resolution is less than 1024 X 768 pixels (e.g. 1280 x 1024), The WeatherCaster software will not fill the entire PC screen.

1. From the Start menu, select Control Panel.

Figure 78. Display Properties window

2. Select Display Properties.

3. Select the Settings tab (see Figure 78).

4. Slide the Screen Resolution indicator until 1024 X 768 is selected.

5. Click Apply, then click Yes.

Computer Screen Distortion: DPI Setting

If the computer display’s DPI setting is 120, the WeatherCaster screen will be distorted. The computer display’s DPI setting must be 96.

1. Right click the desktop and select Properties. the Display Properties dialog box

will appear.

2. Click the Settings tab.

3. Click the Advanced button.

4. In the Plug and Play window, select the General tab.

5. Under DPI setting, choose Normal size (96 DPI) from the drop-down menu.

6. Click OK.

7. If you are prompted to restart the computer, click Yes.

WeatherCaster Software Problems

Identify the WeatherCaster Version

The WeatherCaster version number is located on the top left corner of each WeatherCaster screen (see Figure 73). The latest version of the WeatherCaster software is available for download at www.airmar.com.

Auto-Detecting Communications Ports

If you installed more than one instance of the drivers for the Converter or the Combiner, the WeatherCaster software may not automatically detect the appropriate communications port. If upon launching the WeatherCaster software the Communication Interface Setup window appears with the “No sensor detected on Port ____ when using baud rate _____,” you will need to manually select the communications port and the baud rate.

Manually Selecting the Communications Port and Baud Rate

1. Be sure the USB cable is connected to the computer.

2. Follow the instructions in the Advanced Setup section, “Communications”,

“Manually Select.”

Troubleshooting Sensor Data Using Windows HyperTerminal

IMPORTANT: Before starting HyperTerminal, note the number of the communications port that the sensor is connected to. The Comm. Port number is found on the Auto-Detecting Sensor Data window when the WeatherCaster software begins.

IMPORTANT: You must close the WeatherCaster software to use HyperTerminal with the sensor.

1. From the Start menu, select All Programs>Accessories>Communications>

HyperTerminal.

2. Enter an area code if prompted.

3. Select File>New Connection.

4. Name the connection, then click OK.

5. Select the particular comm. port that the sensor is connected to, then click OK.

6. Set the bits-per-second to 4800 if connected to a Converter or 38400 if

Figure 79. COM 1 Properties window

connected to a Combiner (see Figure 79). Using the drop-down menus, change the Data bits to eight, Parity to None, Stop bits to one, and Flow control to None, as shown below. Click OK.

7. You will see data sentences from the sensor scrolling on the screen, similar to

the example below (see Figure 80). To identify the commands, refer to the Technical Manual on the Airmar Sensor Support CD. The data can be saved by going to the File drop-down menu and selecting Save As.

Figure 80. Data Sentences

Appendix—Technical Information

Baud Rate

The WeatherCaster software needs to be set as follows:

• NMEA 0183 to USB Data Converter: 4800 Baud Rate

• NMEA 0183 to USB Combiner: 38400 Baud Rate

Acronyms and Abbreviations

CD Compact Disk CD-ROM Compact Disk-Read ONly Memory COG Course Over Ground Comm. Port Communications Port DOP Dilution Of Precision EGNOS European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System GPS Global Positioning System Hz Hertz NMEA National Marine Electronics Association PC Personal Computer PGN Parameter Group Number SD Satellite Differential SOG Speed Over Ground USB Universal Serial Bus WAAS Wide Area Augmentation System 2D Two Dimensional GPS Fix 3D Three dimensional GPS Fix

Glossary

Firmware The software within the sensor hardware WeatherCaster The PC application program

For on-line technical support visit Airmar’s website. From the home page, click FAQs.

Website: http://www.airmar.com Email: info@airmar.com Tel: 603.673.9570 Fax: 603.673.4624

Trademarks

Adobe® is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated. Airmar® is a registered trademark of Airmar Technology Corporation. Microsoft® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. NMEA 2000® is a registered trademark of the National Marine Electronics Assoc. Reader® is a registered trademark of Adobe Systems Incorporated. Smart™ Sensor is a trademark of Airmar Technology Corporation. WeatherCaster™ is a trademark of Airmar Technology Corporation. WeatherStation® is a trademark of Airmar Technology Corporation. Windows® is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

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Furuno WeatherCaster Operator’s Guide

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual