Northstar 952XW, 951XW REV B User guide

951XW AND 952XW

GPS C

HART NAVIGATORS

INSTALLATION MANUAL

Northstar Technologies, Inc.
30 Sudbury Road
Acton, Massachusetts 01720

Part number GM1510, Revision B

www.northstargps.com

Service: 978/897-0770

Sales: 978/897-6600

Limited warranty policy

Northstar Technologies, Inc. warrants the Northstar 951/952 to be free from defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of two (2) years. This warranty applies to the original purchaser and to any
subsequent owner during the warranty period, which begins on the date of shipment of the unit,
F.O.B. Acton, Massachusetts, to an authorized Northstar dealer.

Systems may not be returned to Northstar without a Returned Materials Authorization (RMA) num­ber. Call the Northstar dealer or Northstar for instructions.

During the unit’s warranty period, Northstar will repair or replace, at its option, any part of the unit it
finds to be defective due to faulty material(s) or workmanship. All such repairs and/or replacements
will be promptly performed by Northstar free-of-charge to the owner, excluding freight costs
incurred in shipping to the factory. Return shipments from Northstar to points within the United
States are made via ground transportation, freight prepaid. Special shipping charges (overnight,
two-day, and so on) are the responsibility of the owner.

To be covered by this warranty, the Northstar equipment must have been in normal use. This war­ranty does not apply to units with defects caused by improper installation, physical damage, abuse,
tampering, lightning or other abnormal electrical discharge, or to units with defaced or altered serial
numbers, or to units repaired by unauthorized persons or repaired in a manner that violates North­star’s recommended service procedures.

All repairs and/or replacements made under this warranty must be performed at Northstar’s facilities
in Acton, Massachusetts. Performance of warranty work elsewhere will not be authorized, and North­star will not pay for any charges for such work. Northstar will not be responsible for payment of any
charges imposed by a Northstar dealer or other party for services requested by and/or performed for
a unit’s owner in connection with this warranty. Such services might include removal of the unit
from a vessel, inspection, packaging, handling, reinstallation, and the like.

Northstar Technologies, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any consequential losses of any nature
with respect to any of its products or services sold, rendered, or delivered. The foregoing is the only
warranty expressed or implied. No other warranty exists.

Table of Contents

SECTION ONE Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

Who should read this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Scope of this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Getting technical support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Servicing the unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Returning a unit for service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

SECTION TWO Installing the unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Safety considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Ordering information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

System overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Installation considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Choosing a system location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Wiring the unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Installing the antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Turning the unit on and off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Testing and troubleshooting the 951/952 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Interfacing the unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Configuring the NMEA output ports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Connecting to other equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Setting the anchor-watch alarm honk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Configuring the RS-232 port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Ordering 951/952 software updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

APPENDIX A Technical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

951/952 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

IEC compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Internal WAAS differential receiver specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

AN150 Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page i

Page ii 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

List of Figures

Figure 1: 951/952 dimensions (side) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Figure 2: 951/952 dimensions (front) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Figure 3: 951/952 yoke mount drilling dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Figure 4: 951/952 flush mount drilling dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Figure 5: 951/952 rear connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Figure 6: Separation distances between antennas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Figure 7: AN150 antenna dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Figure 8: Stripping the coax cable jacket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Figure 9: Flared cable braid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Figure 10: Completed BNC connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Figure 11: Proper insertion of a chart cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Figure 12: Interface connector (viewed from back of unit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

Figure 13: 200 PPNM output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Figure 14: Cable end connector (wiring side view, solder cup) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Figure 15: Auxiliary port interface diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Figure 16: Pin 14 honk alarm interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page iii

Page iv 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

List of Tables

Table 1: Contacting Northstar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Table 2: Troubleshooting the installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Table 3: Troubleshooting the AN150 antenna installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Table 4: Interface connector pins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Table 5: Port 1 and 2 setup options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Table 6: NMEA 0183 sentence identifiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Table 7: Connecting to an external Northstar beacon receiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

Table 8: Connecting to Northstar 800 port A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Table 9: Connecting to Northstar 800 port B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Table 10: Northstar 800 series output port setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Table 11: Yeoman plotter setup with the unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Table 12: Beep and honk settings for all alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Table 13: 951/952 specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Table 14: Standards for IEC compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page v

Page vi 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

SECTION ONE Introduction

Welcome The Northstar 951XW/952XW Installation Manual describes

how to install, interface, and troubleshoot the Northstar
951XW and 952XW GPS chart navigators. Also described are
the physical, mechanical, and electrical characteristics of each
unit. The 952XW features a color display, but is otherwise
identical to the 951XW, except where noted.

For complete details about operating the unit, see the Northstar
951/952 Operator’s Manual (part number GM1500C).

The terms “unit” and “951/952” are used throughout this
manual to refer to both the 951XW and 952XW GPS chart
navigators, which are 951X and 952X navigators (not 951XD or
952XD navigators) that are equipped to receive WAAS satellite
signals. The term “DGPS” is used in this manual to refer to any
differential corrections of GPS signals (WAAS or radiobeacon).
The unit uses a high-performance GPS receiver as its primary
source of position data. Position, COG, and SOG are calculated
directly from the received GPS satellites, along with the time,
the date, and an estimate of the unit’s accuracy.

The 951XW/952XW uses a high-performance GPS receiver as
its primary source of position data. Position, COG, and SOG are
calculated directly from the received GPS satellites, along with
the time, the date, and an estimate of the unit’s accuracy.
Differential corrections to the GPS signals are received from
WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) satellites.

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 1

SECTION ONE Introduction

Like Coast Guard radiobeacons, WAAS satellites monitor GPS
signals to determine if errors exist and then provide differential
corrections. The Coast Guard radiobeacon system consists of
nondirectional, short-range beacons installed at lighthouses
and other coastal locations; their range is usually 10 to 175
nautical miles. Radiobeacon differential corrections improve
GPS position fixes to an accuracy of 1 to 3 meters in most cases.

WAAS consists of a network of communication satellites that
are in fixed positions at approximately twice the distance from
the earth’s surface as orbiting GPS satellites. WAAS provides
consistent position accuracy over a greater contiguous
geographic area because it is satellite-based. WAAS differential
corrections maintain a positioning accuracy of less than 3
meters 2dRMS, without the signal interference problems
periodically experienced with low-frequency ground-based
radio-beacon differential signals.

The 951XW/952XW accesses only WAAS signals, not Coast
Guard radiobeacon differential signals, unless it is interfaced to
an external radiobeacon receiver.

Who should read this manual

NOTE:

In the future, Northstar will offer the option of
interfacing the 951/952 to an external
GPS receiver/antenna for receiving GPS (and/or
WAAS) and Coast Guard radiobeacon signals.

You may see references to radiobeacon signals on
some 951/952 screens while following the
installation procedure described in this manual.
However, these references currently apply only if
the unit is interfaced to an external source of
beacon signals that meets the SC104 standard.
You can connect the 951XW or 952XW to an
external source of radiobeacon signals using the
unit’s RS-232 port. For more information about that
option, see ”Configuring the RS-232 port” on page

51.

combined

The Northstar 951XW/952XW Installation Manual is intended
for marine technicians who are configuring and installing
either 951XW or 952XW GPS chart navigators.

Page 2 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

SECTION ONE Introduction

Scope of this manual

Getting technical support

You can email the
Northstar Service
Department directly from
Northstar’s website. The
address is
www.northstargps.com.
Here, you also can access
additional technical
information under either
the Manuals
can download manuals
in PDF format) or
Support

link (you

link.

In this manual, you’ll find information about the following:

• mounting and wiring the unit

• installing the antenna

• testing and troubleshooting the unit

• configuring the NMEA output ports

• configuring the RS-232 port

• connecting two units to share waypoints and routes

• technical specifications

The rest of this chapter explains how to obtain technical
support and how to return a unit for factory service.

After you’ve followed the instructions in this installation guide,
if you need additional technical support or have any other
service-related questions, you can contact either your dealer or
the Northstar Service Department. You can reach Northstar’s
Service Department by email, fax, U.S. mail, or phone as
described in the table below. Whether you send an email or fax,
or write or phone, please have the unit’s serial number
available, and be as complete and accurate as possible when
describing the problem so that a service technician can
research the problem and provide the quickest possible
response.

Northstar’s Service Department is available between 9:00 a.m
and 5:00 p.m Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, excluding
major holidays.

Table 1: Contacting Northstar

Email:

Service: [email protected]
Sales: [email protected]

Fax:

Service: 978/897-1595
Sales: 978/897-7241

Telephone:

Main number: 978/897-6600 or 800/628-4487
Sales: 978/897-0770
Service: 978/897-6600

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 3

SECTION ONE Introduction

Hearing from you Your feedback is important and helps Northstar ensure that

Table 1: Contacting Northstar (continued)

U.S. mail:

30 Sudbury Road
Acton, MA 01720

Website:

www.northstargps.com (you can send email to
Northstar directly from this site)

this manual is a valuable resource for all marine technicians.
Send your questions, comments, or suggestions about this
manual to:

[email protected]

Servicing the unit Repair of the unit is performed only by authorized Northstar

dealers or at the Northstar factory. Service includes a complete
hardware and software check-out.

NOTE:

For a system under warranty, shipping charges to the factory
are the only cost for factory repair. Repaired units will be
returned via prepaid economy ground freight (units returned
overseas are chargeable).

Units and accessories returned for warranty repair that are
determined to be without fault are subject to a handling
charge.

For units still under warranty, field repairs are not
authorized and will void the warranty!

Page 4 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

Returning a unit for service

Before returning the unit
to the Northstar factory,
to prevent delays it is
critical that you first
obtain a Return
Materials Authorization
(RMA) number from the
Northstar Service
Department. If you
purchased your unit
through a dealer, call the
dealer with your serial
number so they can give
you an RMA number.

Shipments without a
proper RMA number
will not be accepted!

SECTION ONE Introduction

CAUTION!

The unit is covered by a two-year hardware-only warranty,
which, in summary, states that if the unit is returned to the
Northstar factory by the owner or dealer during the warranty
period, Northstar will repair or replace, free of charge, any part
found to be defective due to faulty materials or workmanship if
the system has been properly installed and hasn’t been abused.
See the Limited Warranty Policy at the front of this manual for
further details. The only cost to the owner will be the one-way
shipping charges and any associated charges that may be
imposed by the dealer. If you have overnight or second-day
shipping requirements, before shipping the unit, please call
Northstar for turnaround time, freight charges, and payment
arrangements.

The unit should be shipped only in a properly designed carton
with packing material. Shipments to the Northstar factory
should be made to the following address:

Before returning the unit for repair, you may want to
back-up any user-defined waypoints and routes;
see the Northstar 951/952 Operator’s Manual (GM
1500C), “Transferring waypoints to and from a PC.”

Northstar Technologies, Inc.
Service Department
30 Sudbury Road
Acton, MA 01720 USA

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 5

SECTION ONE Introduction

Page 6 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

This chapter includes all the information needed to install the

unit. It begins with a review of the system components and
then provides information on unit and antenna installation.
The rest of this chapter describes how to wire the unit, power
the unit on and off, and troubleshoot. Proper installation of the
Northstar 951/952 is of utmost importance to accurately
receive and effectively use GPS and WAAS signals under a wide
variety of weather conditions.

Safety considerations

WARNING!

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 7

Be sure to turn the power off at the main
switchboard before starting the installation. Further,
it is highly recommended that you post a notice by
this switch telling others to keep power off while
you’re performing the installation. If power is left on
or turned on during the installation, then fire,
electrical shock, or other serious injury may occur.

Be sure to ground the equipment to prevent
electrical shock and mutual interference.

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

CAUTION!

CAUTION!

Be sure that the voltage of the power supply is
compatible with the unit’s voltage rating (10-40
volts DC), which can be found on the label at the
rear of the unit. Connecting to the wrong power
supply can result in fire or damage to the
equipment.

Be sure to use the proper fuse. Using the incorrect
fuse can result in fire or damage to the unit.

Keep the following safe compass distance from the
unit: 1.0 m standard, 0.8 m steering.

Be sure that the 951/952 doesn’t interfere with any
of the on-board systems. Check all other systems
to ensure that their performance doesn’t degrade
when the unit is turned on.

Ordering

To order spare parts or replacement/missing parts, call the
Northstar Sales Department at 978-897-0770.

information

System overview The unit is shipped ready to install and operate (however, you’ll

need special tools for assembling the coaxial cable connectors;
see “Mounting the AN150 antenna” on page 20).

It is recommended that you follow the steps below:

1. Check the shipping carton for any damage, and
immediately report any damage to the carrier. Save all
packing material in case you have to return the unit to
the factory for repair or evaluation.

2. Unpack the carton, and compare its contents with those
on the packing list and what you ordered.

The shipping carton contains:

• the Northstar 951XW or 952XW

• yoke-mount kit

• flush-mount gasket

• AN150 GPS and WAAS antenna

• 50-foot coaxial antenna cable

Page 8 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

• 10-foot interface cable

• 10-foot power cable

• flush-mount drilling template (full size)

• connectors and parts kit

• sunshield

• Northstar 951XW/952XW Installation Manual

• Northstar 951/952 Operator’s Manual

• Northstar 951/952 Operator’s Manual Addendum

• warranty card

3. After reviewing the components, next, review the
components of a proper installation. For details, see
”Ensuring a proper installation” on page 10.

4. Select the desired unit mounting location. For details, see
”Choosing a system location” on page 11.

5. Make the appropriate power wiring connections. For
details, see ”Wiring the unit” on page 16.

6. Select the desired antenna mounting location. For details,
see ”Installing the antenna” on page 18.

7. Turn on the unit. For details, see ”Turning the unit on
and off” on page 23.

8. To ensure that the system is running properly, perform a
functional test. For details, see ”Testing and
troubleshooting the 951/952” on page 27.

9. If desired, interface the NMEA output ports; for details,
see ”Configuring the NMEA output ports” on page 34. If
desired, interface the RS-232 port; for details, see
”Configuring the RS-232 port” on page 51.

Installation considerations

CAUTION!

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 9

The following basic setup information isn’t a
substitute for all the details in SECTION TWO. To
ensure that you meet all critical installation
parameters, be sure to read and follow all of the
requirements.

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Ensuring a proper

installation

To ensure a proper installation, it is highly recommended that
you perform all of the following activities before starting the
installation:

• preview/survey the vessel’s layout and existing

equipment

• review all the installation materials

• review all the installation requirements, including:

■ the physical requirements (spacing, location with

regard to other equipment, etc.)

■ the electrical and electronic requirements (interfer-

ence between other pieces of equipment, power
requirements, etc.)

Although the unit itself is very straightforward and easy to
understand, it has a few basic requirements that must be met
before safe and proper operation can be assured. The major
parts of the rest of this section address several topics regarding
the minimum installation requirements for the unit, to:

• minimize electrical wiring hazards

• accurately receive GPS and WAAS signals

• navigate safely

Pre-installation checkout Northstar recommends you perform a pre-installation checkout

of the unit before installing it on the vessel. This ensures that
the equipment is fully operational, and allows the GPS receiver
to collect its almanac and ephemeris data for the installed
location, which results in less on-board installation time.

Using the AN150 antenna The AN150 antenna is best mounted in the clear, and low on

the vessel to avoid extra motion from pitching and rolling. It
should be mounted lower than directional high-power
transmitting antennas such as radar or satcom. The length of
coaxial cable (supplied with the unit) to the “active” AN150
antenna must be a minimum of 20 feet, but not more than 50
feet. Coil up any unused length of cable; do not cut it to less
than 20 feet! Be sure that all cable connectors are securely
fastened, and that the cable itself isn’t subject to any tight
bends.

For complete details on the AN150, see ”Choosing the antenna
location” on page 18.

Page 10 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Choosing a system location

The unit houses the receiver for GPS and WAAS signals,
computer, power supply, lights, controls, and specially-coated
display screen.

Before any drilling or cutting takes place, the mounting
location should be chosen carefully: Choose a mounting
location that allows good visibility of the unit’s display screen,
is within comfortable reach, and provides a reasonably direct
path for running the required electrical cabling.

Be sure you have easy access to the control panel’s keys and
that the display can be clearly seen from the normal vantage
point when the user is navigating. Even though the display
screen contains an effective anti-reflective coating, choose a
location that will minimize glare from windows or other bright
objects. Although the unit is direct-sunlight viewable, for
optimal viewing it is recommended that you install the unit in a
location that’s out of direct sunlight.

Although the unit itself is waterproof, the connectors at the
back of the unit aren’t immune to corrosion from saltwater
spray. Protect the unit from prolonged exposure to the
elements by mounting it in a relatively dry area, if possible. At
the end of the day, wipe off the unit with a damp cloth. When
not in use, the unit should be covered with the sunshield to
protect it from excessive heat.

To help plan the installation, see Figure 1: ”951/952 dimensions
(side),” below and Figure 2: ”951/952 dimensions (front),” on
page 13.

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 11

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Figure 1: 951/952 dimensions (side)

Page 12 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Figure 2: 951/952 dimensions (front)

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 13

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Flush and yoke mounting Whether you’re flush-mounting or yoke-mounting the unit,

allow at least 2½-inches of clearance at the rear for cables and
connectors. For yoke mounting, leave ample room (usually two
inches) all around the sides and top to avoid crowding the unit.
For the recommended yoke mount drilling dimensions, see
Figure 3 below. Before drilling holes, rotate the unit to the
desired angle to ensure proper clearance for cables and
operation of the unit.

Figure 3: 951/952 yoke mount drilling dimensions

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

For the recommended flush mount drilling dimensions, see
Figure 4 below. This figure is available in the 951/952 packing
carton as a full-size mounting template (GD670, Rev. B or
higher).

Figure 4: 951/952 flush mount drilling dimensions

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 15

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

CAUTION!

When flush mounting, be sure to mount the unit on
a flat surface. Mounting on a curved surface can
distort or break the plastic and cause a breech in
the waterproof seal. Do not overtighten as case
damage may occur and waterproof integrity may be
compromised. This will void the warranty due to
physical damage.

Wiring the unit The majority of installation problems are caused by shortcuts

taken with system cables. When installing the unit, be sure that
you:

• assemble connectors carefully

• don’t make sharp bends

• leave service and drip loops

• tie-wrap all cables to keep them secure

• if cables are shortened, lengthened, or re-terminated, seal

all wiring splices

The unit should be connected to a source of 10- to 40-volt
electrical power, using at least 16-gauge wire minimum for runs
up to 15 feet. A 10-foot fused power cable is supplied with the
unit, and should be long enough for most installations. If it is
necessary to lengthen the power cable, however, you may
extend it to a maximum of 25 feet (using at least 14-gauge wire
for runs over 15 feet) without adversely affecting the operation
of the unit.

CAUTION!

Ensure that fuse or circuit-breaker protection is
provided at the power source.

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Electrical power

requirements

The unit is a negative-ground system that is reverse-polarity
protected; an external fuse prevents damage to sensitive
components.

The wires in the 10-foot power cable must be connected as
follows (black and white can be connected together at the
power source):

NOTE:

• Red → Positive(+) (fused lead)

• Black → Negative(–)

• White → Ground (earth)

If a noise-free earth grounding point isn’t available,
cap and insulate the white wire. It shouldn’t be used
when an earth ground isn’t available.

Northstar strongly recommends as a good safety practice that
you connect the unit to an external circuit breaker or 3-amp
fuse located near the battery or breaker box. The internal fuse
is designed to protect the unit itself; the external fuse or
breaker is intended to protect the vessel wiring and prevent
electrical fires. Also, for optimum noise immunity, the power
wiring should be connected directly to the battery, when
possible.

Figure 5: 951/952 rear connectors

• J1 - Power connector (3-pin)

• J2 - Main I/O interface connector (18-pin)

• J3 - Auxiliary (10-pin)

• J4 - AN150 antenna connector (BNC)

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 17

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Internal fuse The unit is designed with an internal fusible link to protect

against faulty power wiring. The link consists of a short length
of 30 AWG wire located on the I/O circuit board.

Replacement of the fusible link should be performed only by a
qualified electronics technician. If this link becomes
open-circuited between the white and black wires, before
removing the link carefully check all power wiring on the
vessel, especially the white and black wires on the power cable.
You access the link by removing the 10 outer case screws to
open the unit, then removing the four computer-board screws
and lifting the computer board out to expose the I/O board
below. The link should be replaced with another short length
of 30-gauge wire.

Installing the antenna

Choosing the antenna

location

The 951/952 uses a one-piece “active” AN150 antenna for the
reception of GPS and WAAS signals.

The AN150 receiving antenna is a vital link between the unit’s
receiver and the outside world. Aesthetics and easy access
should be secondary to providing strong and reliable GPS and
WAAS signals to the unit’s receiver.

You should select a location for the antenna that meets the
following requirements:

• The antenna should have a reasonably clear view of the

horizon, but be no higher than necessary (side-to-side
motion of the antenna caused by rolling of the vessel
may degrade the SOG and COG readings); however, the
antenna should be 12 to 18 inches above the
surrounding surfaces to avoid interference.

• The antenna must be out of the radiation path of any

on-board radar sets or strong magnetic fields.

• The antenna must be lower than any INMARSAT

communications antenna.

• The antenna should be as far as possible from other

high-power transmitting antennas.

• The length of coaxial cable to the antenna must be

between 20 feet and 50 feet.

• Watch out for electromagnetic “shading” of antennas

from rigging, other vessels, shoreline buildings, and so
on.

To avoid mutual interferences among different antennas on the
vessel, refer to the recommended separation distances
illustrated in Figure 6: ”Separation distances between

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

antennas,” below. This figure shows the minimum
recommended distances for the separation of the AN150
antenna from other antennas and physical mounting surfaces.
Under normal circumstances, following these guidelines
usually results in a relatively trouble-free installation; however,
the installer may want to adjust these distances, depending on
the particular equipment and how it’s configured. Because each
installation is unique—according to the wishes of the
customer—this information should be used only as a guideline.
It isn’t absolute in determining the best location for every
possible equipment configuration.

Figure 6: Separation distances between antennas

NOTE:

Installing the AN150

antenna

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 19

The AN150 antenna should be mounted as low as possible and
out in the open to avoid “shading” (placement of the antenna
where it’s partially obscured, by another object, from the
signals it must receive). If you’re mounting the antenna on top
of a tower or mast, understand that the unit will be affected by
the pitch and roll of the vessel. Often, the bow or stern can
provide a location where shading is minimized while serving to
keep the antenna low. Be sure that any directional L-band
transmitting antennas (such as radar or satellite

Be especially careful about the distances between
the GPS antenna and any loop-type antenna or
other sources of magnetic interference (for
example, the INMARSAT antenna).

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

communication antennas) can never point at the AN150
antenna, since its internal preamplifier is quickly destroyed by
such radiation.

3.00

.91

ANTENNA

O-RING

ADAPTER

1.82

CAPTIVE SCREW

Figure 7: AN150 antenna dimensions

Wiring the AN150 antenna

A 50-foot length of RG-59 coaxial cable is supplied by
Northstar to use with the AN150 antenna.

CAUTION!

The AN150 antenna must be used with a minimum
of 20 feet of cable, and no more than 50 feet. Any
unused length must be coiled up; do not cut it to

less than 20 feet!

Be sure to secure the cable well.

Mounting the AN150 antenna

Tools needed:

• flat-bladed screwdriver

• knife blade

• Amphenol crimp tools

One TNC connector is pre-attached to the antenna-end of the
RG-59 coaxial cable. Connection to the antenna itself involves
the following steps:

1. Remove the antenna base by loosening the four captive
screws in the base.

2. Screw the base onto the top of the antenna mount
(standard 1"-14 marine thread).

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

3. Feed the open end of the supplied coax cable down
through the antenna base and through the hollow core
of the antenna mount.

4. Affix the TNC connector-end of the coax to the mating
connector inside the upper half of the antenna. Be sure to
tighten it securely, as vibration can loosen the
connection over time. In addition, protect the
coax-to-antenna connection with liquid electrical tape or
self-vulcanizing electrical tape.

5. Align the upper half of the antenna with the bottom half
and tighten the four screws. Be careful not to overtighten
the screws, as this may deform the watertight seal
between the two antenna halves.

6. Make a termination for a male BNC connection—as
described in the following steps—then connect the
antenna to the female BNC connection at the back of the
unit.

7. Strip cable jacket to the following dimensions (in inches),
as illustrated in Figure 8: ”Stripping the coax cable
jacket,” below: a=0.57, b=0.34, c=0.14, d=0.43. Do not
nick the center conductor.

Figure 8: Stripping the coax cable jacket

8. See Figure 9: ”Flared cable braid,” below: Slide outer
ferrule on as shown. Slightly flare the end of cable braid,
as shown, to facilitate insertion into inner ferrule.

Figure 9: Flared cable braid

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 21

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

9. Place center contact onto center conductor so that it
butts against the cable dielectric. Crimp the contact in
place using Amphenol tool handle #227-944 and Cavity
B of Die Set 227-980-3.

10. Install cable assembly into body assembly so inner
ferrule slides over dielectric and under braid. Push cable
assembly forward until contact seats in insulator. Slide
outer ferrule over braid and up against connector body.
Crimp outer ferrule using Cavity A of tools specified
above. The connector ferrule-to-cable junction can be
sealed and protected using adhesive-lined heat shrink.

Figure 10: Completed BNC connector

NOTE:

WARNING!

Be sure that you properly install the TNC
connector: Most system failures—whether
continuous or intermittent—can be traced to poor
connector installation.

Whenever any antenna is disconnected from
on-board equipment, be sure to ground the
antenna shield in order to discharge static voltages
that can build up on an ungrounded antenna
system. These voltages are hazardous to
personnel and equipment!

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Turning the unit on and off

Inserting a chart cartridge If using a chart cartridge, you should insert the cartridge before

turning the unit on to avoid any possibility of a system lock-up.

Before inserting the cartridge, make sure that its label is facing
up and that the cartridge is oriented as shown in Figure 11:
”Proper insertion of a chart cartridge,” on page 24.

The cartridge slot is located at the lower right-hand corner of
the unit. If the unit is off, you can verify whether a cartridge
has already been installed by opening the cartridge access door
(turn its handle ¼-turn counter-clockwise) and looking inside
the slot. If the unit is on, you can verify whether a cartridge has
already been installed by pressing the
key to the right of the
must be fully closed and latched to display this information).
One of two possible screens will be displayed:

CHART screen (the cartridge access door

CHART SETUP menu

• If a cartridge is present, the cartridge name and date are

displayed at the bottom of the
screen (at left below). The cartridge name is derived from
its Navionics catalog number. The date may not be
present for all cartridges, especially older ones; in these
cases, the word
cartridge name and date.

• If a cartridge is either not installed or incorrectly

installed, the words
right below).

PRESENT is displayed in place of the

NONE INSERTED are displayed (at

CHART SETUP/STATUS

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 23

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

The Navionics chart
cartridge must remain
free from debris and
moisture at all times. To
ensure that you do not
expose the cartridge to
any environmental
damage, please use
caution when changing
the cartridge. Exercise
care when inserting the
cartridge into the
Northstar unit (see
description and
illustration at right).
When not in use, store the
cartridge in a clean, dry
place away from heat,
humidity, and dust.
Improper handling and
storage of the cartridge
may result in damage to
the Northstar unit. Such
damage is not covered
under manufacturer
warranty.

Insert the cartridge gently but firmly into position with one
straight, smooth motion. If you partially insert the cartridge,
then move the cartridge again after stopping, it may become
stuck in an awkward position.

Figure 11: Proper insertion of a chart cartridge

Turning the unit on To activate the unit, briefly press the PWR key. You’ll be

greeted with a map of the Earth with the words
(for the 951XW, at left below) or
952XW, at right below), then the owner identification message.
Next, the unit performs a series of self-tests (the 951 and 952
self-test screens vary slightly) in which critical components and
functions are checked for any errors.

Page 24 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

“NORTHSTAR 952” (for the

“NORTHSTAR”

SECTION TWO Installing the unit

NOTE:

If the unit’s power has been off and its display
screen is “cold,” a brief warm-up period may be
required for the display screen to achieve its full
intensity.

Advisory message When the unit is powered up, a special advisory message is

displayed as a precautionary reminder that the unit’s chart
cartography must not be relied upon as the sole means of safe
navigation. Although every effort has been made to ensure that
the data used by the unit is as close to paper charts as possible,
errors and omissions are inevitable. Therefore, extreme care

must be used when navigating by means of electronic
charts. It is the captain’s responsibility to cross-check the 951/

952 against other sources of navigation data.

To proceed, you must first acknowledge your acceptance of the
advisory message by pressing any one of the five function keys
located beneath the display screen.

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Viewing GPS satellite

status

To display more information about signals received from the
GPS satellites, press the

POSITION

indicates that WAAS signals are being received.)

Press the
access the
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) for each satellite (the higher the
ratio, the better the quality of the satellite signals). Satellites are
identified by their PRN number, a two-digit number assigned
by the U.S. government. On this screen, the satellite map
indicates where the satellites are currently located in the sky.
Circles indicate GPS satellites; hexagons indicate WAAS
satellites.

screen. (The W on the top right corner of the screen

SAT INFO menu key on the GPS POSITION screen to

GPS SATS screen, which shows the received

POSITION key to access the GPS

The center of the satellite map represents the center of the sky,
and the outer (or last) ring is the horizon. The view is looking
down from above, with East to your right and West to your left.

The following GPS data is also displayed:

• ACCURACY: The estimated accuracy--in feet--of the GPS

system to be expected at the current time. Your position
readings should be more accurate than this estimate 95
percent of the time.

• HDOP: This is a technical measure of the quality of your

fix. HDOP (Horizontal Dilution of Precision) is calculated
from the satellites’ current positions, and isn’t based on

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

actual received signals. You’ll usually see an HDOP value
displayed immediately after the unit is turned on, and
before it’s ready to navigate. HDOP can range from an
ideal value of slightly less than 1, up to poor values of 10
or more. Any value less than 2 indicates excellent
performance.

Press the
screen.

RETURN menu key to return to the GPS POSITION

Turning the unit off To shut off the unit, press and hold the PWR key for

approximately four seconds until the screen goes dark.

Tes t in g a n d troubleshooting the 951/952

Installation-test checklist To test the system after installation, first apply power to the

unit and confirm power is on with no errors. Next, check for
the presence of GPS and WAAS signals. Review the chart-plotter
function: With the chart cartridge inserted, confirm that the
chart map is displayed.

Troubleshooting common

installation problems

Typical problems you may encounter either during or after the
installation process are outlined in Table 2 below, and in
Table 3, “Troubleshooting the AN150 antenna installation,” on
page 30.

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Table 2: Troubleshooting the installation

Problem area Symptom Possible solutions/reasons

POWER Pressing the PWR key doesn’t start

the unit.

DISPLAY The unit powers up, beeps, and the

backlight can be operated up and
down, but there isn’t any video.

The display screen dims, either
slightly or more, after the unit has
been on for a certain time.

SYSTEM
Software-related
system lock-ups

SYSTEM
Hardware-related
system lock-ups

The system locks up under certain
conditions, such as when configuring
screens, routes, waypoints or tide
data.

The system displays the error
message

The system locks up on a random
basis with no apparent pattern.

ROM NO GOOD.

Check the fuse and power to the unit, and
wiring polarity.

If a 951, try adjusting the contrast by pressing

ARROW key. If a 952, the display may

the
have failed (the 952’s
only brightness, not contrast). Call your
Northstar dealer or the Northstar Service
Department.

The unit may be implementing its
auto-dimming mode. Auto-dimming helps
maintain the integrity of the display and reduce
power consumption when the unit is on and
running too hot for its current environment. In
this case, the display screen may dim to half its
intensity.

Install the latest software version; to order, call
the Northstar Service Department.

Install the latest software version; to order, call
the Northstar Service Department.

Internal hardware failure; call your Northstar
dealer or the Northstar Service Department.

ARROW key adjusts

SYSTEM
Configuration

The system locks up when using a
chart card.

The system fails any initial self-tests
other than

No GPS or WAAS.

No WAAS. The system displays the
error message

FAILURE

ROM NO GOOD.

COMMUNICATION

.

Possible bad chart card. Remove the card, and
inspect the pin area of the card and the unit for
damage. If the pins in the unit are bent or
damaged, to prevent further damage, don’t
insert another card. If you’re sure that the card
pins aren’t bent, try inserting a new card.

Internal hardware failure; call your Northstar
dealer or the Northstar Service Department.

For verification and troubleshooting of the
antenna system, see Table 3,
“Troubleshooting the AN150 antenna
installation,” on page 30.

The 951/952 is not communicating properly
with its internal GPS (or WAAS) engines. This
may be an internal hardware failure; call your
dealer or the Northstar Service Department.

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Table 2: Troubleshooting the installation (continued)

Problem area Symptom Possible solutions/reasons

CHART CARDS System freezes when using a

particular chart cartridge at a
particular resolution.

Chart is missing the proper detail at a
particular resolution (zooming in or
out solves the problem).

System lock-up.

INTERFERENCE Electrical, magnetic, or radio

frequency (RF) energy is interfering
with the reliable operation of the unit,
as shown by high levels of noise on

DGPS STATUS screen.

the

GPS The unit powers up, but poor GPS

SNR readings are obtained, even
after running the unit for several
minutes.

Possible bad chart cartridge; call your
Northstar dealer for a replacement.

Possible bad chart cartridge; call your
Northstar dealer for a replacement.

Inserting a chart cartridge before turning the
unit on may cause a lockup; turn off the unit
and turn it back on (with the chart cartridge
already inserted).

Turn off power to each and all of the vessel’s
other instruments and systems, one at a time,
to isolate the source of the interference.

Attempt to eliminate the noise through earth
grounding or RF filtering techniques as
appropriate to the type of noise encountered.

Check that you have the proper length and
type of cable, and that all connections are
clean and secure.

Verify the quality of the antenna location (the
antenna should have a clear view of the sky).
For the correct antenna placement, see
Figure 6 on page 19.

DGPS, if an
external source of
radiobeacon
signals is
connected to the
unit

Low beacon SNR or low signal

When vessel interference is still
present

Troubleshooting common

GPS antenna installation

problems

See Table 3 on page 30.

Turn off all electrical devices and equipment
on the vessel, then check for improvement.
Check fluorescent lights, gauges, and so forth.
Be creative! Check for power-line interference
by moving away from the dock and/or marina.

Isolate to the interfering device, with breaker
panel if necessary, or by physical
disconnection, if required.

Whenever possible, the best and most efficient way to
troubleshoot is to use a known-good set of cables and working
antennas as spares for swapping.

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SECTION TWO Installing the unit

Table 3: Troubleshooting the AN150 antenna installation

Symptom Possible Solutions/Reasons

Poor or no GPS signal while using the
AN150 12-dB GPS antenna.

5.5 VDC low or missing with load
connected

5.5 VDC is missing with load disconnected It indicates a bad GPS board.

5.5 VDC is present It indicates a bad AN150. Replace the AN150.

Turn off any onboard transmitting devices.

Check for 5.5 VDC at antenna with and without
antenna load connected. The GPS receiver
supplies the 5.5 VDC to the AN150 active GPS
antenna.

Check for 5.5 VDC at 951/952 BNC connector.

It indicates a bad connector installation, bad
GPS board, or bad AN150 antenna.

Page 30 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

This chapter includes the information needed to interface the

951/952 to other equipment on the vessel. Major topics
include:

• interfacing the unit

• connecting the unit to other equipment

• connecting the unit to other 951s, 952s, and 941s in

order to transfer all waypoints and routes

• configuring the NMEA output ports

• configuring the RS-232 port

• uploading software

Interfacing the unit

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 31

The unit is easily interfaced to other equipment as described
below. The most common interface data format used with
installations today is NMEA 0183, which is a widely accepted
standard of data transfer between almost all types of marine
electronics, enabling completely different instruments to
“speak” a common language.

The unit has the following ports:

• two programmable NMEA input/output ports

• one RS-232 input/output port that you can customize for

communicating data to or from other instruments

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Connector pin wiring A list of wire designations for the interface connector is

displayed on the unit’s

INTERFACE CABLE WIRING screen.

1. Press the

CUSTOMIZATION

2. Press the PORT SETUP OPTIONS menu key to display
the

3. Press the WIRING INFO menu key. The unit displays the
interface cable wiring list, as shown below

STAR key until you see the USER

screen.

PORT SETUP OPTIONS screen.

Figure 12: Interface connector (viewed from back of unit)

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Table 4: Interface connector pins

Description Wire color Pin

NMEA PORT 1 INPUT A BROWN 3

NMEA PORT 1 INPUT B BLUE 1

NMEA PORT 1 INPUT
GROUND

NMEA PORT 1 OUTPUT A VIOLET 12

NMEA PORT 1 OUTPUT B GRAY 7

NMEA PORT 1 OUTPUT
GND

NMEA PORT 2 INPUT A WHITE w/BROWN STRIPE 6

NMEA PORT 2 INPUT B BROWN w/WHITE STRIPE 2

NMEA PORT 2 INPUT
GROUND

NMEA PORT 2 OUTPUT A YELLOW 15

NMEA PORT 2 OUTPUT B ORANGE 11

NMEA PORT 2 OUTPUT
GND

RS-232 GROUND TAN 17

RS-232 RX GREEN 16

RS-232 TX RED 18

WHITE w/BLUE STRIPE 4

BLUE w/WHITE STRIPE 8

WHITE 5

BLACK 10

EXT. GND / FOIL DRAIN WHITE/ORANGE & SHIELD 9

RESERVED ORANGE w/WHITE STRIPE 13

200 PPNM/HONK OUT
(Pulses Per Nautical Mile)

PINK 14

200 ppnm output The unit provides an open-collector transistor output (on pin

14) that’s programmed to produce 200 pulses per nautical mile
for those devices requiring this output.

The emitter of the NPN transistor is connected to ground, and
the collector connects to the output pin side (see Figure 13:
”200 PPNM output,” on page 34). The output can sink 100mA,
and can withstand a maximum positive voltage of 50 volts.

If the output connects to a highly inductive device (for
example, a relay), a spike suppression diode such as a 1N4001
should be connected across the load. Cathode connects to the
power side of the device and anode connects to the output pin
side.

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 33

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

The output produces a negative pulse 80ms wide and supports
speeds from zero to 100 knots (clamps at 100kt).

Figure 13: 200 PPNM output

Configuring the NMEA output ports

Each output port can be programmed to meet most any special
requirements of devices that conform to the NMEA 0183—and
other—data format specifications. The
described below allows the selection of the specific 0183
sentences that the 951/952 will transmit.

1. Press the

CUSTOMIZATION

2. Press the PORT SETUP OPTIONS menu key to display
the

STAR key until you see the USER

screen.

PORT SETUP OPTIONS screen.

SETUP function

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

3. Press the PORT 1 SETUP or PORT 2 SETUP menu key.
On either screen, the unit displays a list of data format
control options, as shown below.

Check the installation instructions of the equipment to which
you’re interfacing for any special requirements. The Northstar
factory settings are adequate for most peripheral equipment,
but the following options are available, if needed:

Table 5: Port 1 and 2 setup options

Parameter Options

OUTPUT FORMAT
(see below)

NMEA 0183 TALKER ID
(see page 38)

NMEA 0183 LL PRECISION
(see page 39)

OUTPUT RATE
(see page 39)

NMEA 0183 WAYPOINT ID AS
(see page 40)

NMEA 0183 CHECKSUMS
(see page 40)

choose NMEA 0180, NMEA
0183 V2.0, 0183 V1.5, RAY
0183, DATAM CDX, or NONE

choose GP, LC, or II, to make
the unit look like a GPS receiver,
Loran-C receiver, or an
“integrated instrument”

choose hundredths of minutes,
thousandths of minutes, or
ten-thousandths of minutes

choose 2 to 999 seconds for the
interval at which data is sent to
the external device

choose NAME or NUMBER for
the identifier of waypoints sent to
the external device

choose ON or OFF for
compatibility with some older
devices

OUTPUT DATUM
(see page 41)

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 35

choose from a list of datums to
apply to your lat/lon coordinates

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Setting the output format The unit outputs navigation data in any of several standard

formats as required by the receiving, or “listener,” device.

Highlight the
menu key and the
choices available:

0183 RAY

• NMEA 0180 is an infrequently used format, developed in

the late 1970’s, required by certain older autopilots.

• NMEA 0183 VERSION 2.1 is a general-use interface

output format used by most autopilots, radars, plotters,
and other equipment. The NMEA 0183 Version 1.5
sentences (BWC, GLL, and RNN) enable the 952X to be
backward-compatible with marine equipment previously
designed for this earlier version of 0183. For details on
using the 0183 format, see ”About NMEA 0183 and RAY
0183” on page 36.

• DATAMARINE CDX is required by Datamarine’s

cross-track-error indicators, the latest of which display
distance and bearing to the waypoint.

• 0183 RAY is used when transmitting/receiving position

information to or from Raytheon equipment. It uses
Raytheon’s non-standard NMEA 0183 checksum, where,
on output, the checksum isn’t included, and on input to
the 951/952, the checksum is ignored. Format is
supported on Port 1 and Port 2.

OUTPUT FORMAT option, then press the EDIT

CURSOR PAD, and you’ll find the following

NMEA 0180, 0183 V2.1, DATAMARINE CDX,

and NONE.

About NMEA 0183 and

RAY 0183

NOTE:

• The NONE setting is used when the unit isn’t connected

to an external device.

NMEA 0183 enables GPS and loran navigators, for example, to

“talk” to plotters, radars, charting instruments, and other
electronics, by means of a common language.

With the checksum ignored on input, it is possible
that the unit may receive contaminated NMEA data
when connected to an external Raytheon loran.

Displaying NMEA output sentences

When you select NMEA 0183 or RAY 0183 as the output format
(after pressing the
is displayed showing all the available NMEA 0183 sentences
that the 951/952 can output.

EDIT menu key) and press ENTER, a screen

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Three-letter abbreviations identify each sentence and are listed
alphabetically. The meanings of the NMEA 0183 three-letter
identifiers are defined in the table below.

Table 6: NMEA 0183 sentence identifiers

0183 identifier Meaning

APB Autopilot Sentence “B”

BOD Bearing to Destination

BWC Bearing & Distance to Wpt. (Great Circle)

GGA GPS Fix Data

GLC Geographic Position, Loran-C

GLL Latitude/Longitude

GSA GPS DOP and Active Satellites

GSV GPS Satellites In View

HSC Heading Steering Command

MSS MSK Receiver Signal Status

RMA Recommended Min. Sentence A

RMB Recommended Min. Sentence B

RMC Recom. Min. Specific GPS/Transit Data

RNN Navigation Route

VTG SOG/COG

WCV Waypoint Closure Velocity (SOA)

WPL Waypoint Location

XTE Cross-track Error

ZDA Estimated Time of Arrival

ZTG Time-To-Go

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

The sentences that will be output are followed by the word ON,

those that won’t be output are followed by two dashes to

and
signify that they’re turned off. Some devices can’t handle all
these sentences correctly, so you can use this screen to
customize the output by turning individual sentences to the

ON or DASHES (off) setting. In general, you may want to turn

on only those sentences used by the particular equipment to
which you’re interfacing the 951/952.

Turning NMEA output sentences on and off

To turn on or off the unit’s NMEA 0183 sentences, first follow
the above description to display the
then perform the following steps:

0183 SENTENCE screen,

Choosing the NMEA 0183

talker ID

1. Press the
want to turn on or off, then press the

2. Press the CURSOR PAD to toggle the sentence on or off,
and press
leave it unchanged).

3. Repeat for each sentence as desired. When you’re done,
press the

SETUP

If you want to set all the sentences to the factory settings for
recommended output, press the SAFE RESET menu key.

If you want to turn on only a select few sentences for output,
press the
turn the desired ones back on.

Part of the NMEA 0183 standard requires that the equipment
you’re interfaced to—the “listener”—knows what type of device
is transmitting the data. The talker ID tells the listener that it is
receiving information from a navigation source (the 951/952),
not a communications or sensor device, which transmits
completely different and therefore unusable forms of data.

The talker ID enables you to configure the unit’s output data to
tell the listener it’s receiving data from a loran (
navigator, or Integrated Instrument (
depends on what the listener device is expecting.

CURSOR PAD to highlight the sentence you

EDIT menu key.

ENTER to make your selection (or CLEAR to

RETURN menu key to go back to the PORT

screen.

ALL OFF menu key to turn off all sentences, then

LC) or GPS (GP)

II). The choice you make

1. Check the listener device’s instruction manual to
determine which “talker ID” codes it will respond to.

2. At the

CURSOR PAD to highlight the NMEA 0183 TALKER ID

option, then press the

3. Scroll through the three choices using the CURSOR PAD
to make your selection, and press the
done.

The interfaced equipment will now receive the 0183 data in the
correct nav-source format.

Page 38 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

PORT 1 SETUP or PORT 2 SETUP screen, press the

EDIT menu key.

ENTER key when

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Setting NMEA 0183 lat/lon

precision

For added versatility in communicating with a variety of other
devices, you can control the level of precision of the 0183
position information as it is output by the 951/952. The choice
you make depends on the equipment to which you’re
outputting NMEA data. For the number of digits of precision
required for that particular device, refer to the manufacturer’s
instructions.

• XX.XX ’ (lat/lon precision to two decimal places/

hundredths of minutes/or 60 feet)

• XX.XXX ’ (lat/lon precision to three decimal places/

thousandths of minutes/or 6 feet; this is the factory
setting)

• XX.XXXX ’ (lat/lon precision to four decimal places/

ten-thousands of minutes/or roughly ½ foot)

The 951/952 conforms to the NMEA version 2.00 standard, and
is also compatible with version 1.50. Equipment typically
benefiting the most from three and four decimal places of
precision are electronic and pen plotting devices. However,
most older devices designed to operate with the original 0183
and other formats can only function with two-place precision.

1. At the
the

PORT 1 SETUP or PORT 2 SETUP screen, highlight

NMEA 0183 LL PRECISION option, then press the

EDIT menu key.

2. Scroll through the three choices using the CURSOR PAD
to make your selection, and press the

ENTER key when

done.

NOTE:

Setting the output precision to three or four decimal
places doesn’t mean that the 951/952 will navigate
with that accuracy. Position information can be
output and displayed to four decimal places, but the
user’s ability to actually navigate with such
accuracy is limited by the accuracy of the Loran
and GPS systems (see the Northstar 951/952
Operator’s Manual). Therefore, specifying more
decimal places in the data output doesn’t
necessarily result in greater navigating accuracy.

Changing the output rate The unit lets you use a one-second update interval, a rate of 1

Hz, under limited circumstances, for NMEA and diagnostic data
output. Using the 1-Hz output option requires some thought
when specifying either NMEA 0183 (NMEA version 2.0) or
Raytheon (RAY 0183). Because there isn’t enough time to
transmit all available sentences within one second, you must
select for output only those that are needed. If you select more
sentences than can be output in one second, the unit displays
the following error message:

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

SORRY, CAN’T DO THAT. TOO MANY SENTENCES FOR 1 SEC
INTERVAL

If this message is displayed, you must select fewer sentences.

There are some applications that require a longer update
period. In that case, the unit allows you to increase that span to
999 seconds.

1. At the

PORT 1 SETUP or PORT 2 SETUP screen, press the

CURSOR PAD to highlight the OUTPUT RATE option,

then press the

EDIT menu key.

2. Enter your numerical selection, and press the ENTER key
when done.

Changing the NMEA 0183

waypoint ID

Many marine electronic devices (such as radars and electronic
plotters) can display the waypoint names, if they’re output by
the 951/952.

1. At the

PORT 1 SETUP or PORT 2 SETUP screen, press the

CURSOR PAD to highlight the NMEA 0183 WAYPOINT ID

option, then press the EDIT menu key.

AS

2. Change the option from NUMBER to NAME, and press

ENTER key when done. The listening device will now

the
display the six-character waypoint names.

NOTE:

NOTE:

Be sure to verify this capability in the listening
device before changing the

ID AS

understand this identifier, and using it may cause
problems with the display of the waypoint
information.

There is no standard for identifying how numbers
should be assigned when converting waypoints
from names to numbers. When you export
waypoint information as numbers to a peripheral
device, be aware that numbers aren’t sequentially
defined and may be re-used on a random basis.

option. Most older equipment won’t

NMEA WAYPOINT

Setting the NMEA 0183

checksum

Certain older devices may not accept sentences containing the
NMEA 0183 checksum that’s output by the 951 or 952. In such
cases, the device may not operate properly, if at all. If you
encounter difficulty when interfacing to older equipment, the
unit offers the flexibility of turning off the NMEA 0183
checksum.

1. At the

PORT 1 SETUP or PORT 2 SETUP screen, press the

CURSOR PAD to highlight the NMEA 0183 CHECKSUMS

option, then press the

Page 40 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

EDIT menu key.

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

2. Press the CURSOR PAD to change the setting from ON to

OFF, and press the ENTER key when done.

Selecting an independent

NMEA output-port datum

Connecting to other equipment

Connecting to other

Northstar units

You can adjust output position for NMEA 0183 ports 1 and 2 to
specific geodetic datums, independently of the datum you
choose for positional display.

1. At the
the
key.

2. Scroll through the choices using the
to make your selection. To apply this chosen datum to
your lat/lon coordinates in the NMEA 0183 output
sentences, press the

Two 951, 952, or 941 units can be connected in order to take
advantage of the waypoints/routes sharing feature. This
convenient feature lets all waypoints and routes be transferred
between any combination of two of these units.

PORT SETUP 1 or PORT SETUP 2 screen, highlight

OUTPUT DATUM option, then press the EDIT menu

CURSOR PAD down

ENTER key.

Using this feature involves three main steps, which you should
perform in the following order:

1. Check that each unit you want to share waypoints and
routes with is operating with software version 3.12 (or
higher). To determine the units’ current software version,
press the

CUSTOMIZATION

INFORMATION

INFORMATION

displays the current software version. If this version is
earlier than 3.12, you must upgrade this unit to version

3.12 (or higher) before it can share waypoints and routes
with another unit. To obtain software version 3.12 (or
higher), call the Northstar Sales Department to order the
Waypoint Database Sharing Upgrade Kit, part number
1500-WDS, which includes step-by-step instructions for
installing the software.

2. Connect two units to allow for transferring of all
waypoints and routes (call the Northstar Sales
Department to order the connector kit, part number
1500-WDS).

STAR key until you display the USER

screen is, then press the SERVICE
key to display the SERVICE
screen. The MAIN BOARD SOF VER field

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

3. Transfer all waypoints and routes between the desired
units.

NOTE:

NOTE:

When transferring waypoints and routes between
two units, Northstar recommends that you follow
the detailed instructions in the Northstar 951/952
Operator’s Manual (GM1500C, Revision B or
higher). Failure to follow these instructions may
result in the loss of valuable waypoint and route
data. It is highly recommended that you read these
instructions before transferring waypoints and
routes.

Remember: Every unit you want to import
waypoints and routes to, or export waypoints and
routes from, must have the waypoint/route sharing
software upgrade (version 3.12 or higher) installed.
You can’t import waypoints/routes into a unit, or
export waypoints/routes from a unit, that doesn’t
have the waypoint/route sharing feature, regardless
of whether the other unit has the feature.

Connecting the two units

Before you can transfer waypoints and routes between the two
units, they must be properly connected using the following
parts from the Waypoint Database Sharing Upgrade Kit:

• 2 backshells with cable clamps (2), screws (4), and o-rings

(2)

• 2 solder-cup-style cable connectors

• 2 twist lock rings

• 3 different-size rubber strain relief grommets (6 total, 2 of

each size, for different size cables)

You must supply a cable: Use only Belden #9502 twisted pair
cable or approved equivalent.

Connecting the units involves three main steps: assembling the
cable that connects the two units, terminating both ends of the
cable, and connecting both ends of the cable to the units’ 10-in
connectors. These are described below.

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

To assemble the cable:

1. Cut the cable to the desired length.

2. Slide the following parts onto each end of the cable, in
the following order:

• connector backshell

• rubber-strain relief grommet (using the appropriate

size) that fits inside the backshell

• twist lock ring (also known as a quarter turn), ensuring

that it’s facing in the correct direction.

3. Trim and prepare the wires for soldering to the connector
body.

4. Terminate the cable, as described below.

To terminate the cable:

1. Terminate and solder the appropriate wires to the
appropriate pins. See Figure 15: ”Auxiliary port interface
diagram,” below.

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Shield
termination

Aux input A

Ground/shield

Aux output A

CONNECTOR A
(connects to unit auxiliary port)

Pin number

1

No connect

2

No connect

3

No connect

4

No connect

5

6

7

CONNECTOR B
(connects to unit auxiliary port)

Pin number

1

2

3

4

1

3

5

4

8

6

10

5

Figure 14: Cable end

6

7

connector (wiring side

view, solder cup)

Shield

2

7

9

Aux input B

Aux output B

8

9

10

No connect

8

9

10

Figure 15: Auxiliary port interface diagram

2. Slide the twist lock onto the connector body.

3. Screw the connector backshell to the connector body,
and tighten.

4. Install the strain-relief clamp with two screws.

5. Connect both cable ends to a 941/951/952, as described
below.

To connect the cable ends:

1. Plug each end of the cable into the 10-pin ports at the
back of each unit.

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

2. Turn both units on.

3. Test for the proper cable connection: Press the WAYPTS/

ROUTES

then the
menu key; then the
should read

key; then the IMPORT/EXPORT menu key;

IMPORT DATA menu key or EXPORT DATA

TEST COMM key. The message

REMOTE LINK OK. If so, the hardware

connection is now complete.

The 941/951/952 units that are connected are now capable of
sharing all waypoints and routes between them, but remember:
Before transferring waypoints and routes between the two
units, you should read the waypoint/route sharing operator
instructions. Failure to follow these instructions may result in
the loss of valuable waypoint and route data. Complete details
are provided in the Northstar 951/952 Operator’s Manual
(GM1500C, Revision B or higher). See Chapter Six, “Creating
Waypoints,” and follow the instructions in the section “Moving
waypoints and routes between units.”

Connecting to an external

source of differential

corrections

In the future, you’ll be able to interface the 951/952 to an
external Northstar combined receiver/antenna for receiving
GPS (and/or WAAS) and Coast Guard radiobeacon signals.
Currently, if you want the 951XW or 952XW to receive
radiobeacon data, you must interface the unit with an external
Northstar model 8400, 8401, or 8800 differential receiver (or
other source of differential corrections).

To connect to an external receiver, first connect the external
Northstar differential receiver to the 951/952 RS-232 port, as
described in Table 7 below.

Table 7: Connecting to an external Northstar beacon

receiver

8800 DGPS Sensor 952 Interface Connector

Pin 21 (receive) red (RS-232 output) #18

Pin 20 (transmit) green (RS-232 input) #16

Pin 17 (ground) tan (RS-232 ground) #17

8400 DGPS Sensor 951/952 Interface Connector

black (receive) red (RS-232 output) #18

white (transmit) green (RS-232 input) #16

orange (ground) tan (RS-232 ground) #17

8401 DGPS Sensor 951/952 Interface Connector

yellow (receive) red (RS-232 output) #18

blue (transmit) green (RS-232 input) #16

orange (ground) tan (RS-232 ground) #17

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

For details about interfacing the unit to the Northstar 8401,
you may want to refer to the Northstar 8401 Manual (GM465).
For details about interfacing the unit to the Northstar 8800,
you may want to refer to the Northstar 8800/8801 Beacon
Receiver Installation Manual (GM635). For details about con­necting to other sources of differential corrections, see the
manufacturer’s instructions for wiring information.

Next, set up the 951/952 to receive the data from the external
source, using the RS-232 interface port.

1. Press the

CUSTOMIZATION

2. Press the PORT SETUP OPTIONS menu key. The
following screen will be displayed (information displayed
in the

3. If you want to receive SC104 corrections through the
unit’s RS-232 interface port, the port information box in
the lower center of the screen must read
port is set for anything other than

EDIT menu key, then press the CURSOR PAD to display
SC104 IN, then press the ENTER key.

4. Use this same procedure to set the baud rate to match
that of the external device, if necessary. (Refer to the
external device’s instructions for correct baud rate
setting.) The unit is now configured to accept differential
corrections from an outside source.

STAR key until you display the USER

screen.

RS-232 SETUP option at this time may be different):

SC104 IN. If the

SC104 IN, press the

Checking the quality of radiobeacon DGPS signals

Even if the unit is attached to an external source of
radiobeacon differential signals, the

DGPS NOT INSTALLED. This screen is functional only for

show
Northstar units that have an internal DGPS receiver (for
example, the 951XD/952XD); it doesn’t function in the 951XW/
952XW.

Page 46 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

DGPS STATUS screen will

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Connecting to a Northstar

800 series loran

If a Northstar 800 series loran is already available on the vessel,
you can connect it to the 951/952 for an ideal source of
Loran-C TDs and previously stored waypoint locations. Use the
appropriate pin/wire connections and the 800’s setup sequence,
each listed below, to initialize the data output to be received by
the 951/952. You can use Port 1 or Port 2 of the 951/952, or A
or B of the 800. Wire colors refer to the unit’s interface cable.

Table 8: Connecting to Northstar 800 port A

800 OUTPUT ÷

Port A 951/952 Port 1 951/952 Port 2

Pin 12 brown (#3) white with brown stripe (#6)

Pin N blue (#1) brown with white stripe (#2)

÷ CONNECT TO EITHER øøøø

÷÷

Table 9: Connecting to Northstar 800 port B

800 OUTPUT ÷

Port B 951/952 Port 1 951/952 Port 2

Pin 7 brown (#3) white with brown stripe (#6)

÷ CONNECT TO EITHER øøøø

÷÷

Pin H blue (#1) brown with white stripe (#2)

To configure the Northstar 800 for correct output format,
follow the steps below (for further details, refer to the Northstar
800/800X Reference Manual, part number GM260):

1. Execute

84

COMMAND 83 for output port A, or COMMAND

for output port B.

2. Press the lower SELECT button until PRINTER 3 appears
in the lower display, and press

ENT.

3. Enter the following sequence to program the output
parameters:

Table 10: Northstar 800 series output port setup

At this prompt Press To output this data to the 951/952

SET UP 149 (ENT) 0183 output format (8 bits, no parity, 4800 baud)

INTERVAL 1 (ENT) 1 second output rate

ITEM 1 13 (ENT) include GTD sentence in output (Loran-C TDs)

ITEM 2 26 (ENT) waypoint location*

ITEM 3 31 (ENT) include SRS sentence in output

(status of received signals)

ITEM 4 40 (ENT) include RMA sentence in output

ITEM 5 0 (ENT) end of sequence

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Table 10: Northstar 800 series output port setup (continued)

At this prompt Press To output this data to the 951/952

* Only used if you want the waypoint to which you’re navigating to be automatically
transferred to the unit’s waypoint database.

Connecting to other

devices

Ye om an wi re s 951/952 port 1 951/952 port 2

NMEA OUT (white)
(DATA A+)

Data Return (green)
(GROUND)

NMEA IN (red)
(DATA +)

RETURN (black)
(GROUND)

Connecting with a Yeoman chart plotter

To enable the 951/952 to communicate with a Yeoman
electronic chart plotter, refer to the table below.

Table 11: Yeoman plotter setup with the unit

÷÷÷÷ CONNECT TO EITHER øøøø

NMEA IN (brown #3) white with brown stripe (#6)

white with blue stripe (#4) white (#5)

NMEA OUT (violet#12) yellow (#15)

blue with white stripe (#8) black (#10)

Connecting with a radar device

The 951/952 can be set to interface with a radar device. The
951/952 supports the NMEA TLL sentence, sometimes referred
to as the “rattle” sentence. This sentence lets the unit
communicate its position to an interfaced radar device, which
tracks a user-defined target. In turn, the interfaced radar device
communicates to the unit the target’s position—in lat/lon
coordinates—so that you can see the target symbol, displayed as
a waypoint, right on the
position). The target symbol is displayed with the name

-RADAR on the CHART screen, as well as on both the ALPHA
LOCAL waypoints lists (to access these lists, press the

and

WAYPTS/ROUTES key, then WAYPT LIST menu key, then the
NEXT LIST menu key until you reach the desired list). On the

ALPHA and LOCAL lists, this radar waypoint is displayed with

the hours/minutes/seconds/day/month/year (for example,

12:50:20-30JUN99) in the description field.

CHART screen (after you save the

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Setting the anchor-watch alarm honk

In the anchor-watch alarm function, you can set the 951/952 to
honk, in addition to beep, as long as you’ve connected a honker
with pin #14 on the interface connector. See Figure 16 on page
49 for the hardware modification required to support the unit’s
honk feature. You can use Radio Shack part number 273-060,
or an equivalent.

Figure 16: Pin 14 honk alarm interface

Once you’ve set the anchor-watch alarm to honk, a continuous
honking sequence begins either when your vessel moves
outside the specified anchor-alarm radius or when the
navigation source (for example, GPS) becomes unavailable.

NOTE:

To set the anchor-watch alarm to honk:

1. Press the
(952) or

2. Press the CURSOR PAD to highlight the HONK OUTPUT
option, then press the

3. Press the CURSOR PAD to select ANCHOR ALM, then
press the ENTER key.

If the vessel moves outside the set anchor-alarm radius, then
for the next 10 seconds, the exclamation point begins flashing
and the alarm automatically starts beeping (you’ll hear the
beeping only if you’ve set the

ALARMS or ALARMS & BACKLIGHT screen to ON). The honk

sequence then starts for a total of 3.5 minutes: 1 second of
honking followed by 14 seconds of silence; 2 seconds of
honking followed by 13 seconds of silence; 3 seconds of
honking followed by 12 seconds of silence, and so forth, until
the honking is up to 14 seconds followed by 1 second of

For this feature to work, the ANCHOR ALARM
option on the ALARMS screen (952) or ALARMS

& BACKLIGHT

STAR key once to display the ALARMS screen

ALARMS & BACKLIGHT screen (951).

screen (951) must be set to ON.

EDIT ALARM menu key.

ALARM AUDIO option on the

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

silence. This 3.5-minute honk cycle repeats forever unless you
clear the anchor alarm.

This honk does not automatically clear with the following
conditions:

• the vessel moves back into the anchor-alarm radius

• you change the anchor-alarm radius

• you select a new “drop anchor” position

• you turn off the anchor alarm

Instead, you must clear the anchor alarm in either of the
following two ways.

Option #1:

1. Press the

BACKLIGHT

STAR key to display the ALARMS/ALARMS &

screen, then press the CLEAR ALARM menu

key.

Option #2:

1. Press the

BACKLIGHT

STAR key to display the ALARMS/ALARMS &

screen.

2. Press the CURSOR PAD to highlight the HONK OUTPUT
option, then press the EDIT ALARM menu key.

3. Press the CURSOR PAD to select either 200 PPNM (used
to interface to speed log devices), or
instead of

ANCHOR ALM, then press the ENTER key.

ALL ALARMS,

Honking for all alarms Instead of setting all alarms to beep only, you can set all alarms

to honk. This honking starts simultaneously with the flashing
exclamation point on the

BACKLIGHT

screen (951). After you set all alarms to honk, the
system emits an output sound for half a second, followed by
silence for half a second. This repeatable honking sequence
stops when the alarms either automatically clear or you
manually clear them.

ALARMS screen (952) or ALARMS &

NOTE:

If you want all alarms to honk, you must first set the

ALARM AUDIO option to ON.

To set all alarms to honk:

1. Press the

ALARMS & BACKLIGHT screen (951).

or

STAR key to display the ALARMS screen (952)

2. Press the CURSOR PAD to highlight the HONK OUTPUT
option, then press the

3. Press the
press the

CURSOR PAD to select ALL ALARMS, then

ENTER key.

EDIT ALARM menu key.

Table 12 below describes how to set the anchor-watch alarm
and all other alarms to the desired audio.

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SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Table 12: Beep and honk settings for all alarms

Sound Type Setting(s) Description

Beep All alarms Set alarm audio field to ON The unit’s standard alarm beep.

Beep Anchor watch Set alarm audio field to ON

Set anchor alarm field to ON

Honk All alarms Set alarm audio field to ON

Set honk output field to ALL ALARMS

Honk Anchor watch Set anchor alarm field to ON

Set honk output field to ANCHOR ALM

Configuring the RS-232 port

The RS-232 port is used to interface to any of the following:

• an external differential receiver for Coast Guard

• an external device that accepts SC104 differential

• an external combined GPS receiver/antenna for GPS

• a personal computer

The unit’s standard alarm beep.

Exclamation point flashes on the
ALARMS screen; the unit simulta­neously emits an output sound for half a
second, followed by silence for half a
second.

For 10 seconds, the exclamation point
flashes on the ALARMS/ALARMS &
BACKLIGHT screen and the alarm
beeps (if alarm audio is on), then the
honk sequence starts.

radiobeacon signals

corrections (future)

(and/or WAAS) and Coast Guard radiobeacon signals
(future)

Connecting to a differential receiver lets the unit receive
differential corrections through the RS-232 port. This function
is useful if you want to navigate using Coast Guard
radiobeacon differential corrections.

If you want to download waypoints to a personal computer, or
have your dealer or Northstar upgrade the 951/952 with new
operating software, you can connect to a PC using the RS-232
port. The following sections describe the RS-232 port’s various
settings.

Using SC104 out Because the 952XW and 952XW have no internal radiobeacon

receiver,
intended for sending radiobeacon differential signals to an
external device.

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 51

SC104 OUT is not currently available. SC104 OUT is

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Using SC104 in SC104 IN accepts differential corrections from any external

Using external GPS In the future, the EXTERN GPS option will let you interface to

source transmitting the standard SC104 data stream. Use this
setting if you want to receive Coast Guard radiobeacon
differential corrections from an external source. When using

SC104 IN, be sure that the BAUD RATE setting also matches the

baud rate requirements of the transmitting device.

an external Northstar GPS receiver/antenna for receiving GPS,
(and/or WAAS) and Coast Guard radiobeacon signals.

Using copy port 1 and copy

port 2

NOTE:

The COPY PORT function allows you to interface the 951/952
to many personal computers without the need for an
RS-422-to-RS-232 converter. Many PC application programs for
waypoint/route loading, chart programs, data logging, etc., can
be used. The function “copies” the output of the specified port
1 or port 2 data format (

CDX,

or RAYTHEON 0183) to the RS-232 port’s output for direct

connection to the computer.

1. Press the

CUSTOMIZATION

OPTIONS

2. At the PORT SETUP OPTIONS screen, press the PORT 1

SETUP

port you want to copy is now set to output the desired
data format. If necessary, make changes now by pressing

EDIT menu key, pressing ENTER when done, and the

the

RETURN menu key to go back to the PORT SETUP
OPTIONS

3. At the PORT SETUP OPTIONS screen, if necessary, change

RS-232 SETUP option to display the appropriate COPY

the

PORT 1

menu key, then pressing the
the selection, then pressing the
now copy and output the specified port’s data format
through the RS-232 port to an external device.

If you haven’t interfaced an external combination
GPS receiver/antenna to the unit AND you select

EXTERN GPS option, no position data will be

the
shown and a communication failure will result.

NMEA 0180, NMEA 0183, DATAMARINE

STAR key to display the USER

screen, then press the PORT SETUP

menu key.

or PORT 2 SETUP menu key to confirm that the

screen.

or COPY PORT 2 selection by pressing the EDIT

CURSOR PAD to change

ENTER key. The unit will

Page 52 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

The RS-232 diagnostic port may overflow—when
it’s configured to either

PORT2

, and one of the copied ports is in 0183
output mode—unless the diagnostic port’s baud
rate is fast enough to handle the number of
characters. Because the diagnostic port’s baud rate
can now be changed, the unit will always display
this precautionary message before you actually
reset the baud rate:

SENTENCES MAY NOT TRANSMIT AT DIAG
BAUD RATE. PRESS “ENTER” TO CONTINUE

COPY PORT1 or COPY

WARNING: ALL

About the diagnostic

option

NOTE:

The RS-232 port’s DIAGNOSTIC option is for factory diagnosis
of 951/952 operating parameters. Do not turn this function on.

Using the “port off” setting Use this setting when the RS-232 port’s input or output

functions are not needed.

Ordering 951/952 software updates

For dealers Once Northstar has posted an addendum on its website, dealers

For end users End users should contact their respective dealer for these

Periodically, Northstar posts 951/952 software-update addenda
on its website (www.northstargps.com) under the “Manuals”
link.

who would like the corresponding software update can call the
Northstar Sales Department to order the particular update,
which is shipped with complete installation instructions. When
you call, be sure to have the current software version number
ready. To access this information about the unit, press the

STAR key until you display the USER CUSTOMIZATION screen,

then press the

SERVICE INFORMATION screen: The software version is

the
displayed in the

updates. Software updates should be installed by a qualified
marine technician. Updates that are installed improperly may
result in the loss of data and the incorrect functioning of the
unit. This type of repair isn’t authorized under the Northstar
warranty.

SERVICE INFORMATION menu key to display

MAIN BOARD SOFT VER: field.

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 53

SECTION THREE Interfacing the unit

Page 54 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

951/952

APPENDIX A Te c h n i c a l specifications

Table 13: 951/952 specifications

Power

Power source 10-40 VDC

12 watts nominal

Standard supplied fuse: 3 amps

GPS receiver

Type 12-channel, continuous tracking (2 channels dedicated for WAAS

differential corrections)

L1 frequency, C/A code (SPS)

Sensitivity C/N

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 55

>34dB-Hz

0

APPENDIX A Technical specifications

Navigation accuracy <3m 2DRMS with WAAS

Navigation update rate 1 per second

Time to first fix 30 seconds (typical)

Table 13: 951/952 specifications (continued)

1-3m 2DRMS with radiobeacon differential

20-30 m 2DRMS without differential

Dynamics Velocity:1800 km/h

Acceleration: 4 m/s
Jerk: 2 m/s

3

2

Interfacing

NMEA Two bi-directional ports

NMEA output sentences: APB, BOD, BWC, GGA, GLC, GLL, GSA,
GSV, HSC, MSS, RMC, RMA, RMB, BTG, WCV, XTE, ZDA, ZTG
(conforms to NMEA v 2.0 and later; supports 1.5 GLL and BWC)

NMEA input sentences: TLL, WPL, and others

RS-232 One bi-directional port

Other Waypoint upload/download capability (with appropriate software)

Operating software upload

Accepts external loran receiver

Accepts external combined GPS receiver/antenna (future)

Physical features

Display screen 320 x 240 pixel (5.75" diagonal)

High-temperature, backlit, transflexive graphics LCD (full-color, if
the 952)

Anti-reflection coated to minimize glare

Environmental

Temperature 0ºC – 55ºC max for the 951

0ºC – 50ºC max for the 952

95% relative humidity, non-condensing

Page 56 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

APPENDIX A Technical specifications

IEC compliance The following table applies only to the Northstar 951.

Immunity to electromagnetic environment (1988/1992 amend.)

Table 14: Standards for IEC compliance

Evaluation Standard

Radiated emissions IEC 945 (1995) per 17.3, 17.4

Low temperature IEC945 (1995) per 4.5.4.2.4

Dry heat IEC 945 (1995) per 4.5.2

Damp heat IEC 945 (1995) per 4.5.3

Corrosion IEC 945 (1995) per 4.5.10

Vibration IEC 945 (1995) per 4.5.7

Rain test IEC 529–IPX 5

Internal WAAS differential receiver specifications

Velocity: 1852 km/h (514 m/s)

Acceleration: 4 Gs 939.2 m/s

Jerk: 2 m/s

Time to first fix: 50 seconds

Accuracy: <2 m (cep)

3

AN150 Antenna Height: 2.7 inches

Diameter: 3.0 inches

Weight: 0.5 pounds

2

)

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B Page 57

APPENDIX A Technical specifications

Page 58 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

Numerics

951/952

chart cartridge, proper insertion of
connecting to other Northstar units 41
dimensions (side and front) 12
installing 7
interfacing to other equipment 31
ordering spare parts 8
pre-installation checkout 10
safety concerns while installing 7
servicing the unit 4

RMA number 5
testing and troubleshooting the unit 27
turning the unit off 27
turning the unit on 23
wiring the unit 16

A

Accuracy of signals
Alarm

anchor
audible 49–51

AN150 antenna

choosing a location
flaring the end of the cable braid 21
location 18
mounting 20
overview 10
recommended separation distances 19
stripping the coax cable jacket 21
tools needed for installation 20
troubleshooting 29

Anchor-watch alarm, honk setting 49
Antenna, AN150. See AN150 antenna

C

Cautions

installing the antenna
installing the unit 8, 9
mounting the unit 16
servicing the unit 5
wiring the unit 16

Chart cartridge, proper insertion of 24
Checksums 40
COG readings 18
Configuring output ports 34
Copy port 1 and 2, using 52

D

Datamarine CDX output format

F

Flush mounting

drilling dimensions 15

G

GPS

49–50

2, 26

18, 19

20

36

14

Index

23

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B PAGE 59

accuracy 26, 39
and differential corrections 2
quality of signals 26
troubleshooting 27

H

Honk, setting the unit’s anchor-watch alarm to

I

Input ports
Inputs

NMEA port
RS-232 port 31, 45, 53

Interfacing

200 pulses per nautical mile (PPNM)
compatibility 31, 35, 38
connecting to external combination receiver/antenna 2, 45
connecting to external combined GPS receiver/antenna 52
connecting to external Northstar model 8400, 8401, or 8800 differential receiver 45
connecting with other devices

connector pin wiring 32

L

Lat/lon, changing the precision settings
Loran

connecting the unit to a Northstar 800
interfacing with GPS 47

M

Mounting

AN150 antenna
flush-mounting and yoke-mounting the 951/952 14

N

NMEA 0183

checksums 40
lat/lon precision, setting 39
output-port datum 41
sentence identifiers, turning on and off 37
talker ID 38
waypoint ID 40

Noise 17
Northstar 800 series loran 47
Northstar service department 3

O

Outputs

200 ppnm
changing output rate 39
format 35
NMEA port 31, 33, 34
RS-232 port 31, 45, 53

P

Parts, ordering
Port setup options

connecting to Northstar 800
NMEA port 34
programming the ports 34

45

31, 33

chart plotters

radars 48

31, 34

33

8

33

48

39

20

47

49

41

PAGE 60 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B

RS-232 port 51
wiring information screen 32

Pulses per nautical mile (PPNM) 33

R

Radar, interfacing the unit with
Radiobeacon differential GPS 2, 45–46, 51–52
Raytheon 0183 output format 36
RMA number 5
RS-232 45

configuring port 51–53
copy port 1 and 2 52
SC-104 in 46, 52
SC-104 out 51

S

Screens

ALARMS/ALARMS & BACKLIGHT
CHART 48
CHART SETUP/STATUS 23
DGPS STATUS 46
GPS POSITION 26
GPS SATS 26
INTERFACE CABLE WIRING 32
PORT SETUP OPTIONS 32, 34, 52
SERVICE INFORMATION 53
USER CUSTOMIZATION 32, 52, 53

Sentences, NMEA 0183 identifers 37
Service. See Technical support
Software updates, ordering

T

Talker ID
TDs (time differences) 47
Technical support 3, 53
TNC connector 20, 21
Transferring waypoints between two Northstar units 41
Troubleshooting

Turning off the 951/952 27
Turning on the 951/952 24

U

Updates, ordering

W

WAAS

Warranty statement 3
Waypoints, setting identifier (names or numbers) 40
Wiring

Y

Yoke mounting

38

the antenna
the installation 27

29

53

accuracy
quality of signals 26
troubleshooting 27

951/952
installation 18

2, 26

16

14

48

49, 51

53

951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B PAGE 61

PAGE 62 951XW/952XW INSTALLATION MANUAL, Revision B