RC400
GPS Chartplotter
Owner’s Handbook
Document Number: 81237-2
Date: August 2004
ii RC400 GPS Chartplotter
iii
About this Handbook
Introduction
This handbook describes the RC400 Portable GPS Chartplotter. The
RC400 utilizes Satellite Differential (SD) signals for enhanced
navigational accuracy.
The RC400 GPS Chartplotter can be used portably with the supplied NiMH batteries or fix-mounted while connected to ship’s power. The
equipment is comprised of:
• 4 in Color LCD display with Chart holder compartment for a Navion-
®
ics
Gold Chart electronic chart card
• Internal GPS antenna
• Battery tray for portable operation
The RC400 GPS Chartplotter can output GPS and Waypoint data to
operate with other equipment, such as an autopilot or repeater instrument
connected via the NMEA 0183 interface.
Note: This handbook contains important information about installing,
using and maintaining your new Raymarine product. To get the best from
the product, please read this handbook thoroughly.
Conventions Used
Throughout this handbook, dedicated buttons are referred to in bold
capitals (for example, ENTER). Functions, modes of operation and
options are shown in normal capitals (for example, LIGHT).
Operating procedures, which may consist of a single key-press, or a
sequence of numbered steps, are indicated by a ➤ symbol in the margin.
When textual data is displayed on screen, any unavailable data is shown
as dashes, one per character.
Where procedures refer to Select, this implies using the trackpad to
highlight a function and then pressing the ENTER key.
© Raymarine Limited 2004
iv RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Important Information
This handbook contains important information on the installation and
operation of your new equipment. In order to obtain the best results in
operation and performance, please read this handbook thoroughly.
Raymarine’s Product Support representatives, or your authorized dealer,
are available to answer any questions you may have.
Intended Use
The Raymarine RC400 is a chartplotter display unit with a built-in GPS
receiver and internal GPS antenna. It is intended for marine navigation
purposes on recreational boats.
Warranty
To register your RC400 ownership, please take a few minutes to fill out
the Warranty registration card at the back of this handbook. It is very
important that you complete the owner information and return the card to
the factory in order to receive full warranty benefits.
Technical Accuracy
To the best of our knowledge, the information in this handbook was
correct as it went to press. However, our policy of continuous product
improvement and updating may change specifications without prior
notice. As a result, unavoidable differences between the product and
handbook may occur from time to time. Raymarine cannot accept
liability for any inaccuracies or omissions it may contain.
For the latest product information visit our website:
www.raymarine.com
EMC Conformance
All Raymarine equipment and accessories are designed to the best
industry standards for use in the recreational marine environment.
The design and manufacture of Raymarine equipment and accessories
conform to the appropriate Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
standards, but correct installation is required to ensure that performance
is not compromised.
v
GPS Reception
GPS systems must have a clear horizon-to-horizon view to track
satellites. Because i ts GPS antenna is internal, the RC400 should ne ver be
mounted below deck.
The RC400 must be used outdoors to ensure proper GPS signal
reception. The internal antenna may not be able to obtain a fix if the unit
is operated indoors.
The RC400 may require several minutes to obtain a GPS fix the first time
you power up.
Failure to properly mount the chartplotter can result in poor performance.
Safety Notices
CAUTION: Product Installation
This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with
the instructions contained in this handbook. Failure to do so could
result in poor product performance, personal injury and/or damage
to your boat.
CAUTION: Navigation Aid
Although we have designed this product to be accurate and reliable,
many factors can affect its performance. As a result, it should only be
used as an aid to navigation and should never replace common sense
and navigational judgement. Always maintain a permanent watch
so you can respond to situations as they develop.
WARNING: High Voltage
This unit contains high voltages. Adjustments require specialized
service procedures and tools available only to qualified service
technicians – there are no user serviceable parts or adjustments. The
operator should not remove the cover or attempt to service the unit.
CAUTION: Battery Usage
• Do not short the terminals.
• Do not solder cells directly into battery tray.
• Do not use charger cord if power plug or cable is damaged.
• Do not charge cells with + and – terminals reversed.
• Do not recharge cells if physically deformed or leaking.
• Only operate using four Alkaline or four Ni-MH cells.
• Only use Alkaline or Ni-MH cells. Do not use any other type.
vi RC400 GPS Chartplotter
• Do not mix Alkaline and Ni-MH cells.
• Do not dispose of cells in fire.
• Do not dismantle cells.
• Replace all cells at the same time.
• Charge and discharge under the ambient temperature men-
tioned in cell’s specifications.
• Using batteries in extreme conditions may affect their service life.
For example: extreme temperature, deep cycle, extreme overcharge and over discharge.
• The Ni-MH batteries included with your RC400 are not covered
by the unit’s warranty.
WARNING: Alkaline Battery Use
When using Alkaline batteries, ensure the BATTERY TYPE switch
inside unit is set to ALKALINE so that the cells are not charged when
the Power/NMEA cable is connected.
Charging Alkaline cells can cause a rupture of the safety seal,
resulting in fluid contamination of the unit. This can lead to
corrosion that could damage or destroy the unit.
Ni-MH Battery Recycling
This product is powered by rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
batteries. Ni-MH batteries contain chemically active materials that are
hazardous to the environment. When Ni-MH batteries can no longer hold
a charge, they should be disposed of properly.
The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) has been
established in the US to provide a rechargeable battery recycling
program. Spent Ni-MH batteries can be forwarded to a facility that uses a
thermal recovery process to reclaim the heavy metals. Collecting and
recycling Ni-MH batteries preserves valuable resources and prevents
heavy metals form entering the waste system, landfills and incinerators.
When the useful life of your Ni-MH cells has expired, please return them
to a recycling center. To find the location of the recycling center in the US
nearest you, phone the RBRC at 1-800-822-8837 or point your web
browser to:
www.rbrc.com
Outside the US, please contact the battery recycling agency for your area.
vii
Contents
About this Handbook ........................................................................................... iii
Introduction .................................................................................iii
Conventions Used ........................................................................iii
Important Information ....................................................................................... iv
Intended Use ................................................................................iv
Warranty ...................................................................................... iv
Technical Accuracy ..................................................................... iv
EMC Conformance ...................................................................... iv
GPS Reception .............................................................................. v
Safety Notices ............................................................................... v
Ni-MH Battery Recycling ........................................................... vi
Chapter 1: Overview ..........................................................................................1
1.1 RC400 GPS Chartplotter .............................................................. 1
Display Features and Functions .................................................... 1
Operating Controls and Display Layout ....................................... 1
Trackpad and Cursor ............................................................... 2
Dedicated Keys ....................................................................... 3
Status Bar ................................................................................ 3
Function Bar ........................................................................... 3
Pop-Up Menus ........................................................................ 4
Database Lists ......................................................................... 4
1.2 Satellite Differential System ......................................................... 4
How it Works ................................................................................ 5
Availability of WAAS and EGNOS Signals .................................6
Broadcast Continuation and Accuracy .........................................6
Chapter 2: Installation .......................................................................................7
2.1 Introduction .................................................................................. 7
EMC Installation Guidelines ........................................................ 7
2.2 Unpacking and Inspecting the Components ................................. 7
Items Missing? .............................................................................. 8
2.3 Planning the Installation ............................................................... 9
2.4 Installing the Batteries and Chart Card ....................................... 11
Installing the Batteries ................................................................ 12
Inserting a Gold Chart Card ........................................................ 13
Removing a Gold Chart Card ..................................................... 14
2.5 Bracket Mounting ....................................................................... 14
2.6 Running the Cable ...................................................................... 16
Introduction ................................................................................ 16
2.7 Charging the Ni-MH Batteries .................................................... 18
Battery Voltage Indicator ............................................................ 18
viii RC400 GPS Chartplotter
2.8 System Check and Initial Switch On .......................................... 19
Initial Switch On .........................................................................19
Checking Chartplotter Operation ............................................... 20
EMC Conformance ..................................................................... 20
GPS Reception ............................................................................ 20
Chapter 3: Getting Started .............................................................................21
3.1 Introduction ................................................................................21
Battery Voltage Indicator ............................................................21
Simulator .................................................................................... 21
3.2 Switching On/Off ........................................................................22
Changing the Lighting and Contrast ........................................... 22
3.3 Simulator Mode .......................................................................... 23
3.4 Controlling the Display ............................................................... 24
Selecting the Display Mode ........................................................ 24
Moving Around the Chart ........................................................... 26
Using FIND SHIP ....................................................................... 26
Changing the Chart Scale ............................................................ 27
3.5 Using Navionics Gold Chart Cards .............................................29
Loading the Chart Data ............................................................... 29
Displaying the Chart Data ........................................................... 30
Chapter 4: Setting Up .......................................................................................31
4.1 Introduction ................................................................................31
4.2 System Set Up Parameters .......................................................... 31
Bearing Mode ............................................................................. 33
Units ............................................................................................ 34
Variation ...................................................................................... 34
Variation Mode ........................................................................... 34
Date Format ................................................................................ 34
Time Offset ................................................................................. 34
Language ....................................................................................34
Simulator .................................................................................... 35
Simulated SOG ...........................................................................35
Simulated COG ........................................................................... 35
Screen Saver ............................................................................... 36
Light Saver .................................................................................. 36
4.3 Chart Set Up Parameters ............................................................. 37
Orientation .................................................................................. 39
Plotter Mode ............................................................................... 39
Show Waypoints ......................................................................... 40
Waypoint Symbol ....................................................................... 40
Autozoom ................................................................................... 40
Screen Amplifier ......................................................................... 40
ix
COG Vector ................................................................................ 40
Arrival Circle .............................................................................. 40
Anchor Alarm ............................................................................. 41
XTE Alarm ................................................................................. 41
Select Chart ................................................................................. 41
Chart Text ................................................................................... 41
Chart Boundaries ........................................................................ 42
Safety Contours .......................................................................... 42
Depth Contours ........................................................................... 42
Spot Soundings ........................................................................... 42
Light Sectors ............................................................................... 42
Presentation ................................................................................ 42
Position Calibration ....................................................................42
4.4 GPS Setup ................................................................................... 43
Chapter 5: Operation .......................................................................................47
5.1 Introduction ................................................................................ 47
5.2 Working with Waypoints ............................................................ 47
Placing a Waypoint .....................................................................48
Selecting a Waypoint .................................................................. 50
Waypoint Data Display ............................................................... 51
Editing Waypoint Details ............................................................ 52
Erasing Waypoints ...................................................................... 54
Moving Waypoints ..................................................................... 54
5.3 Working with Routes ..................................................................55
Creating a New Route ................................................................. 56
Saving the Current Route ............................................................ 58
Clearing the Current Route from the Screen ............................... 59
Retrieving a Route from the Database ........................................59
Displaying Route Leg and Waypoint Information ...................... 60
Erasing or (re)Naming a Route ................................................... 61
Route Info ...................................................................................61
Editing a Route ........................................................................... 63
5.4 Following Routes and Going to Target Points ............................65
Follow a Route ............................................................................ 66
Reverse a Route .......................................................................... 66
Target Point Arrival .................................................................... 67
Alter a Route ............................................................................... 67
Going to an Individual Target ..................................................... 69
Go to a Waypoint ........................................................................ 69
Go to Cursor ................................................................................ 70
Go to a Port ................................................................................. 71
Stop Follow or Stop GoTo .......................................................... 72
x RC400 GPS Chartplotter
5.5 Changing the Display Mode .......................................................72
CDI Display ................................................................................73
BDI Display ................................................................................74
Waypoint Data ............................................................................ 76
Navigation Data .......................................................................... 78
Time/Date Data ........................................................................... 79
5.6 Transferring Waypoints and Routes ............................................81
Displayed Waypoints .................................................................. 81
Managing Database Lists ...................................................... 81
5.7 Using Tracks ............................................................................... 83
Setting up a Track ........................................................................83
Clearing the Current Track ......................................................... 85
SmartRoute ................................................................................. 85
5.8 Object Information ..................................................................... 86
5.9 Using Archives ...........................................................................87
Archiving a Route ....................................................................... 87
Loading or Deleting an Archived Route .....................................89
Archiving a Track .......................................................................90
Loading or Deleting an Archived Track ..................................... 91
Archiving a Waypoint Set ...........................................................93
Loading or Deleting an Archived Waypoint Set .........................94
5.10 Displaying Chart Information ..................................................... 96
Port Services ...............................................................................96
Tide Information ......................................................................... 98
5.11 Man Overboard (MOB) ............................................................ 104
5.12 Alarms ....................................................................................... 105
Chapter 6: Maintenance & Troubleshooting ..............................................107
6.1 Maintenance .............................................................................107
Routine Checks .........................................................................107
Servicing and Safety .................................................................107
6.2 Resetting the System ................................................................. 108
6.3 Problem Solving .......................................................................109
Troubleshooting ........................................................................109
6.4 How to Contact Raymarine ....................................................... 110
On the Internet .......................................................................... 110
Customer Support ..................................................................... 110
In the US ................................................................................... 110
In Europe ................................................................................... 112
Worldwide Support ................................................................... 112
Appendix A: Specifications ............................................................................113
Appendix B: List of Abbreviations ...............................................................115
Index ...........................................................................................117
Chapter 1: Overview 1
Chapter 1: Overview
1.1 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Display Features and Functions
The RC400 GPS Chartplotter includes the following features:
• Detailed navigation information from installed Navionics
Chart card
• Positional information from Satellite Differential GPS
• GPS satellite status
• Create, Place, Move, Edit or Erase a Waypoint
• GoTo Waypoint, Port, Facility or Cursor
• Create, Save, Name, Edit or Follow a Route
• Review Route and Waypoint Lists
• Display Tide Heights, Tide Currents, Sun and Moon data
• Display vessel’s position, direction and track on-screen
• Convert a track to a route (SmartRoute)
• Alarms and Timers
• Man OverBoard (MOB) to navigate back to a missing person or
object
• Display and keys illuminated for night-time use
®
Gold
Operating Controls and Display Layout
The chartplotter is operated by means of the following controls:
• A multi-direction trackpad with context sensitive cursor
• Seven dedicated and labelled push-buttons
The main navigation display also features:
• Dedicated status panel
• Dynamic function bar
• On-screen pop-up menus
• Database lists for storing waypoints and routes
2 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Status bar
Battery strength
Chart card compartment
(under battery tray, rear)
Vessel Symbol
GOTO is for following a route or for
going to a waypoint, port, nearest
facility or current cursor position.
MOB is for returning to a location if
a person or object is lost overboard.
ENTER accepts soft key selections.
RANGE IN zooms in to display a
smaller chart area.
TRACKPAD navigates through soft
key selections maneuvers the cursor.
FIND SHIP ROUTES
GOTO
ENTER
MOB
RANGE
IN
WAYPOINTS
POWER
CLEAR
MORE¬
RANGE
D6530-2
PAGE
OUT
Cursor
Primary Function Bar
POWER toggles the unit on and off.
PAGE toggles between Set Up, CDI,
BDI, Waypoints, Navigation and
Time/Date display modes.
CLEAR exits a function or backs up
one menu level.
RANGE OUT zooms out to display
a larger chart area.
Figure 1-1: RC400 GPS Chartplotter Operating Controls
Trackpad and Cursor
On the primary chart display, the trackpad is used to move the cursor
horizontally, vertically or diagonally. The cursor is the cross-hair symbol
(+) which is used to select a position or item on the chart.
The longer the trackpad is pressed, the faster the cursor moves. The
current cursor position (in latitude and longitude) is shown in the status
bar at the top of the screen.
The cursor is context-sensitive. Some items on the screen, such as
waypoints and chart objects have information associated with them.
When the cursor is placed over such objects, this information is displayed
in the status bar. Some items may also have options or settings. If
available, these are displayed in a function bar at the bottom of the screen.
Note: During many operations the cursor cannot be moved around the
screen (while a function bar is displayed, for example) and the cursor is
used exclusively for selection.
Chapter 1: Overview 3
Dedicated Keys
These keys have fixed functions. Some keys can be used in either of two
ways:
• Press: Press the key briefly and then release it. This method is used
for most key operations.
• Press and hold: Press the key, keep it pressed for the period of time
stated (typically 3 seconds), then release it.
When a dedicated key is pressed, one of the following occurs:
1. The associated operation occurs (for example, change chart scale—
RANGE IN/OUT key).
2. A pop-up menu is displayed, providing further options.
3. A set of functions is displayed.
Status Bar
On the primary chart display, the status bar at the top of the screen
provides context-sensitive information. In general operation this will be
the scale of the chart, the position of the cursor (lat. and long) and the
range and bearing to the cursor. When the cursor is placed over a dynamic
object, the status bar will display information appropriate to that object.
Function Bar
The Function Bar at the bottom of the screen contains a number of
functions which change according to the current operation. The functions
are grouped into related sets and subsets providing access to the various
functions. The primary function bar is displayed when the ENTER key is
pressed.
The currently selected function is highlighted with a green background.
When a function is invoked, one of the following occurs:
1. The associated operation is performed (for example: GOTO WAY-
POINT).
2. A sub-set of functions is displayed.
3. A pop-up menu is displayed, providing further options.
4. The appropriate database list (for example, Route or Waypoint) is displayed.
4 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Pop-Up Menus
Pop-up menus usually provide various options. When a pop-up menu is
on-screen, a set of associated functions is also displayed.
Use the trackpad to select an option from the menu, then use the
appropriate function to set the option. For example, the radius of the
waypoint arrival alarm can be specified or the selected navigation data
can be set on/off.
Database Lists
Waypoints and routes created on the chartplotter are stored in database
lists. These lists can be viewed and items selected for editing.
As with pop-up menus, when a database list is on-screen, a set of
associated soft keys is also displayed; use the trackpad to select an item
from the list, then use the appropriate function to edit the item. For
example, a Waypoint or a Route can be erased.
1.2 Satellite Differential System
The RC400 GPS Antenna utilizes a satellite differential correction
system to improve the accuracy and integrity of the basic GPS signals.
Three separate compatible systems currently exist or are in development:
1. Wide Area Augmentation System (WAAS). Developed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the USA.
2. European Geostationary Navigation Overlay System (EGNOS).
This system is being developed by a European consortium.
3. The MTSAT Satellite-Based Augmentation System (MSAS). Being
developed by the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) for civil aviation use.
The area covered by the WAAS system includes the entire United States
of America but also extends to a much wider area as detailed below.
Chapter 1: Overview 5
0˚15˚W30˚W45˚W60˚W90˚W 75˚W105˚W120˚W135˚W150˚W165˚W 15˚E135˚E 150˚E 165˚E 180˚
75˚N
60˚N
45˚N
30˚N
15˚N
0˚
15˚S
D4910-1
Figure 1-2: WAAS Coverage Map
The combination of the WAAS, EGNOS and MSAS systems will
provide global satellite based differential GPS augmentation into the
future.
How it Works
The following description is based on WAAS, but the principles apply
equally to the EGNOS and MSAS systems.
WAAS comprises the following components:
• Ground Reference Stations across the USA
• Master Stations located at East Coast and West Coast
• Geostationary Satellites located above the equator
The Ground Reference Stations are located at known positions and
receive data continuously from GPS. The Ground Reference Stations
send their data to the Master Stations which calculate the error of the
GPS-received positions and generate correctional data.
The corrected “differential” signals are then sent to the two
Geostationary Satellites which broadcast the corrected data on the
standard GPS frequency, making it available to the GPS Antenna.
The RC400 GPS uses the correctional data transmitted by the
Geostationary Satellites to refine the basic GPS positional data for
greater accuracy.
6 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Figure 1-3: The WAAS System
Availability of WAAS and EGNOS Signals
The WAAS system is presently broadcasting in North America.
The RC400 GPS Chartplotter is EGNOS compatible. However, at the
time of going to print the EGNOS was still under test.
Further information on the WAAS and EGNOS systems can be found at:
www.raymarine.com
Broadcast Continuation and Accuracy
The continuation of the broadcast SD signals is not the responsibility of
Raymarine. The navigational accuracy of equipment using these satellite
broadcast SD signals is not guaranteed.
Chapter 2: Installation 7
Chapter 2: Installation
2.1 Introduction
This chapter provides instructions to assist in planning the installation of
the RC400 GPS Chartplotter.
EMC Installation Guidelines
All Raymarine equipment and accessories are designed to the best
industry standards for use in the recreational marine environment.
Their design and manufacture conforms to the appropriate
Electromagnetic Com patibility (EMC) standards, but cor rect installation
is required to ensure that performance is not compromised. Although
every effort has been taken to ensure that they will perform under all
conditions, it is important to understand what factors could affect the
operation of the product.
For optimum EMC performance, it is recommended that when using the
ship’s power:
• Raymarine equipment and cables connected to it are:
• At least 3 ft (1 m) from any equipment transmitting or cables carry-
ing radio signals (for example: VHF radios, cables and antennas.)
• More than 7 ft (2 m) from the path of a radar beam. A radar beam
can normally be assumed to spread 20 degrees above and below
the radiating element.
• Raymarine specified cables are used. Cutting and rejoining these
cables can compromise EMC performance and must be avoided
unless doing so is detailed in the installation manual.
• If a suppression ferrite is attached to a cable, this ferrite should not be
removed. If the ferrite needs to be removed during installation it must
be reassembled in the same position.
2.2 Unpacking and Inspecting the Components
Unpack your RC400 GPS Chartplotter carefully. Retain the carton and
packing materials in the event that you need to return the unit for service.
Check that you have all the correct system components.
8 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Part Number Description
E33018 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
R38095 Mounting Bracket Base
R38096 Mounting Bracket Adapter
R38097 Mounting Knob
— AA size Ni-MH batteries x 4
R38098 Carrying Case
R38099 Power/NMEA cable
R38100 12VDC Cigarette Lighter Adapter
R38102 RC400 Battery Tray
81237 RC400 Handbook
Items Missing?
If any of the above items is missing or damaged, please contact your
Raymarine dealer or our Product Support Department to obtain
replacements.
Chapter 2: Installation 9
2.3 Planning the Installation
When planning to install your RC400 using the bracket mount and ship’s
power, the following points should be considered to ensure reliable and
trouble free operation:
• Convenience: The unit should be installed in a convenient position
where it can be viewed straight on or with a viewing angle of less than
35°. You may wish to apply power before you install the unit, to determine the best viewing angle prior to fixing. The mounting location
should be easily accessible to allow operation of the controls.
• Access: There must be sufficient space below the unit to allow cable
connection to the bottom connector, avoiding tight bends in the cable.
• Interference: The selected location should be far enough away from
devices that may cause interference, such as motors and generators.
• Power Source: The unit should be located near a DC power source.
The power cable supplied is 1.5m (5ft), but a longer cable can be used
if required. Power must be supplied via a 1A quick blow fuse or circuit breaker. Refer to Running the Cable on page 16.
• Interconnections: The unit transmits navigation and waypoint data
on NMEA and, therefore, can be connected to an NMEA compatible
devices. The navigation data transmitted by the chartplotter is
detailed in Appendix A.
• Environment: The unit should be protected from physical damage,
heat sources and excessive vibration. Although the unit is waterproof,
it is good practice to mount it in a protected area aw ay from prolonged
and direct exposure to rain and/or salt spray.
The dimensions of the unit are shown in Figure 2-1 .
10 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
3.57" (90.57mm)
1.75"
(44.52mm)
6.48"
(164.6mm)
GOTO
MOB
RANGE
POWER
PAGE
ENTER
IN
CLEAR
RANGE
OUT
Figure 2-1: RC400 Dimensions
D6523-2
Chapter 2: Installation 11
2.4 Installing the Batteries and Chart Card
Before using the RC400, you must install the Navionics Gold Chart Card
and, if being used portably, the batteries. The chart card is inserted in the
rear of the RC400, beneath the battery tray.
Installing the AA cells and the chart card both require first removing the
battery tray.
➤ To remove the battery tray:
1. Loosen the two retaining screws on the rear of the unit.
2. Remove the battery tray.
3. Loosen the single retaining screw on the battery cover.
4. Remove the battery cover.
D6527-1
Figure 2-2: Removing the Battery Tray
Battery Cover
Battery Tray
12 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Installing the Batteries
When used portably, the RC400 can be powered by the supplied four (4)
Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) batteries or with four (4) AA alkaline cells
(not supplied), using the supplied Battery Tray.
Note: The RC400 was designed to be used with all Ni-MH or all alkaline
battery cells only. Do not mix or use any other battery types.
➤ To install batteries:
1. Remove the battery tray as shown in Figure 2-2 .
2. Locate the Battery Type switch on the inside of the chartplotter adjacent to the chart card (if already installed) and turn to the appropriate
position: ALKALINE or RECHARGEABLE.
D6521-1
BATTERY TYPE switch
Figure 2-3: Locating the BATTERY TYPE Switch
3. Noting the proper orientation, install the 4 cells into the Battery Tray.
4. Noting the proper orientation shown in Figure 2-2 , replace the Bat-
tery Cover and tighten the retaining screw.
5. Push the battery tray into the RC400. The tray will only install one
way: The raised fin on one edge of the Battery Cover must be inserted
over the BATTERY TYPE label so that there will be sufficient room
for the chart card.
6. Turn the screw at the base of the battery case clockwise to the LOCK
position.
Chapter 2: Installation 13
WARNING:
When using Alkaline cells, set the battery type switch to ALKALINE
so that the cells are not charged when the NMEA cord is connected.
Charging Alkaline cells may cause excessive heat and could result in
cell leakage or explosion causing damage or injury.
Inserting a Gold Chart Card
Charts with detailed information for the area you wish to navigate are
available on Navionics Gold Chart cards, each of which can store up to 20
charts in an electronic format. See Using Navionics Gold Chart Cards on
page 29 for details.
➤ To insert a Gold Chart card, refer to Figure 2-4 :
1. Check that you are using the correct Gold Chart card for the desired
area.
2. Remove the battery tray as described above and in Figure 2-2 .
3. Insert the card as shown in Figure 2-4 with the smooth edge of the
card outermost and the card label up.
4. Gently press the card home. If inserted correctly the words BATTERY TYPE on the label behind the card will be visible.
5. Replace the battery tray and tighten the retaining screws.
Figure 2-4: Inserting the Gold Chart Card
D6522-1
14 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Removing a Gold Chart Card
CAUTION:
Do not use a metallic instrument (such as a screwdriver or pliers) to
aid removal, as this can cause irreparable damage.
➤ To remove a Gold Chart card:
1. Loosen the two retaining screws on the rear of the unit.
2. Remove the battery tray as described above in Figure 2-2 .
3. Grip the card lip with a fingernail and pull to the side to remove it
from its slot.
4. Flip unit over so card drops out.
2.5 Bracket Mounting
The unit can be conveniently bracket-mounted on a dash area or
deckhead. Mount the unit as shown in Figure 2-5 :
1. Using the mounting base as a template (or using the template at the
end of this handbook), mark the locations of the screw holes on the
mounting surface.
2. Drill the holes where marked.
3. Use the supplied hardware to fix the mounting base at the marked
locations.
4. Attach the mounting bracket to the mounting base as shown.
5. Attach the knob. Adjust the display angle and tighten the knob.
6. Slide the RC400 downward onto the mounting bracket until the tabs
at the bottom of the bracket enter the corresponding indentations on
the chartplotter.
7. Firmly press the RC400 onto the bracket until it clicks into place.
Chapter 2: Installation 15
➤ To remove the RC400 from the mounting bracket assembly:
1. Use the thumb on one hand to depress one of the two release tabs on
either side of the mounting bracket.
2. Grasping the RC400 with the other hand, pull the chartplotter forward
and remove from the bracket.
Release Tabs
Mounting Knob
Mounting Bracket
D6528-1
Bracket Base
Figure 2-5: RC400 Bracket Mounting Arrangement
16 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
2.6 Running the Cable
Introduction
A cable is required to supply power for operating the unit, charging its
batteries and providing NMEA connection on board your vessel. Of
course you can also charge the unit with the Cigarette Lighter Adapter.
Notes: (1) Adequately secure the Power/NMEA cable and protect from
physical damage. Avoid running cable through bilges, doorways
or close to moving objects or heat sources.
(2) Where a cable passes through an exposed bulkhead or deckhead, a swan neck tube should be used.
(3) Where the cable will be exposed to the elements, a suitable
drip loop should be used.
POWER/NMEA Connector
CAUTION:
If you do not have a breaker in your power circuit, you must fit an inline 1A quick-blow fuse to the positive (red) lead of the power cable.
This unit is not intended for use on positive ground vessels.
The POWER/NMEA connector provides for 12VDC power connection
and NMEA inputs/outputs using the supplied cable.
The chartplotter is intended for use on vessel’s DC power systems
operating in the range 10.0VDC to 18.0VDC (in other words, 12V
systems, not 24V or 32V systems).
Power connections should be made at a DC power distribution panel
through an isolator switch and a 1A circuit breaker or 1A quick blow fuse.
All connections must be clean and tight.
The DC power system should be either:
• Negative ground, with the negative battery terminal connected to the
vessel’s ground
• Floating, with neither battery terminal connected to the vessel’s
ground
A 1.5m (5ft) power cable is supplied. If a longer power cable run is
required, use the supplied power cable to connect to the unit plus a
suitable connector block to connect to the extension cable. The supplied
power cable cores have a cross-section of 2.0mm
Longer power cable runs may require larger wire gauges to minimize any
voltage drop in the cable.
2
(15 AWG).
Chapter 2: Installation 17
If the power cable must be extended, estimate the length of cable between
the vessel’s main power source and the connector block, then select the
correct wire size determined by the distance as indicated below.
Wire size AWG: 16 15 14 12 10 8
Wire size in mm
Maximum Extension (feet): 36 49 65 98 147 230
Maximum Extension (meters): 11.0 15.0 20.0 3 0.0 45.0 70.0
2
:
1.5 2.0 2.5 4.0 6.0 10.0
The DC power input should be connected to the POWER cable at the
bottom of the chartplotter. The cable colors are detailed below.
Pin Function Color
1DC Power In + Red
2DC Power In – Black
3NMEA In+ Brown
4NMEA In– Yellow
5NMEA Out+ Violet
6NMEA Out– White
Shield Drain/Screen (bare wire)
➤ Connect to the power supply using the power cable supplied:
1. Connect the molded connector (with the arrow facing you) to the connector on the bottom of the chartplotter. Run the free end back to the
vessel’s distribution panel or to a junction box.
Note: The molded power connector is spring-loaded to ensure a positive
lock. When removing, press down on the outer ring as you pull the connector away from the RC400. This will prevent damage to the connector.
2. Cut the cable to length and connect the red wire (via a 1A quick blow
fuse) to the + battery terminal and the black wire to the – terminal.
3. Use a suitable junction box to connect to any NMEA equipment.
4. Cut any unused wires short or insulate and tape back.
CAUTION: If the power connections are accidentally reversed, the
system will not function. Use a voltmeter to check that the input
power leads are connected with the correct polarity.
18 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Cigarette Lighter Adapter
You can also power the RC400 and charge batteries using the supplied
12VDC Cigarette Lighter Adapter. This adapter contains a 1.5A fuse,
which is located inside the plug that is inserted into the cigarette lighter.
To open, unscrew the tip until it separates from the rest of the plug.
Replace fuse with one of the same rating.
Figure 2-6: Opening the Cigarette Lighter Adapter
2.7 Charging the Ni-MH Batteries
After connecting the RC400 to power you are ready to charge the batteries.
Although some voltage may be measured on the Ni-MH batteries initially,
they must be fully charged before normal use.
1. Insert the batteries into the battery pack as described in Section 2.4,
Installing the Batteries and Chart Card.
2. Connect the Power/NMEA cable to ship’s power.
—or—
Connect the Cigarette Lighter Adapter into a 12 VDC cigarette lighter.
3. Connect the molded plug, with the arrow facing you, into the connector
on the bottom of the RC400.
4. Fully charge for 6 hours.
Battery Voltage Indicator
NEEDS CHARGING
FULLY CHARGED
When battery charging is complete, the message BATTERY CHARGE
COMPLETED appears on the screen. When the unit is in need of charging,
the message BATTERY LOW appears on the screen.
When the RC400 is being used in portable mode, an icon
displays the status of the AA batteries. The icon located in
the upper right corner of the screen, below the status bar.
When the batteries are completely discharged, the battery
icon appears empty. When fully charged, the battery icon
appears full. The figure to the left indicates the six status
levels the battery level icon can display.
Chapter 2: Installation 19
2.8 System Check and Initial Switch On
When installation is complete and all connections have been made, recheck the installation before using the system for navigation. If problems
occur, refer to Chapter 6:Maintenance & Troubleshooting.
Initial Switch On
To switch on the chartplotter, press the POWER key.
If necessary, adjust the lighting and contrast (see Chapter 4).
If desired, change the default language settings as follows:
1. Press the PAGE key to display the setup function bar.
2. Using trackpad left/right, select the SYSTEM SET UP function and press
ENTER. The SYSTEM SET UP menu is displayed, listing the parameters
and their current settings:
SYSTEM SET UP
BEARING MODE
DISTANCE UNITS
SPEED UNITS KNOTS
DEPTH UNITS
VARIATION
VARIATION MODE AUTO
DATE FORMAT
TIME OFFSET
LANGUAGE
SIMULATOR
SIMULATED SOG
SIMULATED COG ____
SCREEN SAVER
LIGHT SAVER
TRUE
NM
METRES
_.__
DD/MM/YY
UTC
ENGLISH
OFF
____
OFF
OFF
D6531-1
Figure 2-7: System Set Up Menu
3. Using trackpad up/down, select the LANGUAGE option.
4. Using trackpad left/right, select the desired language.
5. Press ENTER to return to the setup functions. The chartplotter now
uses the selected language.
6. Press CLEAR to return to the normal chart screen.
20 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Checking Chartplotter Operation
To confirm that the chartplotter is operating correctly, perform the
following checks:
1. Press the trackpad left/right, up/down and check cursor movement
and normal scrolling action.
2. Insert a Navionics Gold Chart
You are asked to select one to use (See Select Chart on page 41)
3. Use the RANGE IN key to zoom-in and check that the new chart cartridge data is displayed.
4. Ensure that position data is available; use the FIND SHIP function to
check that the cursor is fixed on the vessel symbol which is correctly
positioned at the center of the chart display, see Chapter 5:Operation.
®
card for the area of your vessel.
EMC Conformance
Always check the installation before going to sea to make sure that it is
not affected by radio transmissions, engine starting, etc.
GPS Reception
The RC400 must be used outdoors to ensure proper GPS signal
reception. The internal antenna may not be able to obtain a fix if the unit
is operated indoors or below decks.
The RC400 may require several minutes to obtain a GPS fix the first time
you power up.
Chapter 3: Getting Started 21
Chapter 3: Getting Started
3.1 Introduction
This chapter provides information and instructions to allow you to start
using your RC400 GPS Chartplotter. It is intended to help you familiarize
yourself with the controls before you start using the chartplotter for
routine navigation.
Note: There is often more than one method of performing a particular
task. Normal operating procedures are detailed in Chapter 5. When you
are familiar with the system you can adapt these procedures to suit your
method of operation.
Battery Voltage Indicator
NEEDS CHARGING
FULLY CHARGED
When battery charging is complete, the message BATTERY CHARGE
COMPLETED appears on the screen.
When the unit is in need of charging, the message BATTERY LOW appears
on the screen.
When the RC400 is being used in portable mode, an icon
displays the status of the AA batteries. The icon is located in
the upper right corner of the screen, below the status bar.
When the batteries are completely discharged, the battery
icon appears empty. When fully charged, the battery icon
appears full. The figure to the left indicates the six status
levels the battery level icon can display.
Simulator
The Chartplotter includes a Simulator mode, which allows you to
practice operating your chartplotter without live GPS data. Section 3.3,
Simulator Mode describes how you can switch to this mode. Simulator
mode can be used in the following situations:
• Before the chartplotter has been installed on your vessel. Connect the
Chartplotter unit to a 12V DC power supply, fused at 1A, connecting
the red core from the power lead to positive (+) and the black core to
negative (-); see Chapter 2 for full details.
• Once the chartplotter has been installed on your vessel and while in a
marina or otherwise at anchor.
22 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
3.2 Switching On/Off
➤ To turn the chartplotter unit on, press the POWER key. The keys
illuminate and the Raychart logo is displayed, followed by this warning:
WARNING:
THE ELECTRONIC CHART IS AN AID TO NAVIGATION
DESIGNED TO FACILITATE THE USE OF AUTHORISED
GOVERNMENT CHARTS, NOT TO REPLACE THEM. ONLY
OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT CHARTS AND NOTICES TO
MARINERS CONTAIN ALL INFORMATION NEEDED FOR
THE SAFETY OF NAVIGATION AND, AS ALWAYS, THE
CAPTAIN IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR PROPER USE.
When you have read and understood the warning, press the ENTER key.
Note: As protection against unintentionally powering on the unit and
draining the batteries, you must press the ENTER key within 30 seconds
of pressing POWER or the unit will power itself OFF again.
If this is the first time that the chartplotter has been switched on and no
chart card is installed, the display shows the background world map at
Lat. 0°/Lon 0°.
➤ To turn the unit off, press and hold the POWER key. A countdown timer is
displayed. Keep holding the key until this reaches zero when the unit will
power off.
Changing the Lighting and Contrast
You can change the level of backlighting and contrast for the screen. The
backlights for the keys are constantly lit for safety. To change the lighting
and contrast:
1. Press the POWER key to display the lighting controls.
D4698-2
The CONTRAST control is highlighted with a dark outline.
Chapter 3: Getting Started 23
2. Press the trackpad left/right to select the LIGHTS function.
3. Press the trackpad top/bottom to increase or decrease the lighting to
one of ten levels. You can press and hold the trackpad to change the
setting more rapidly. The lighting level is adjusted as you change the
setting.
4. Press the trackpad right to select the CONTRAST control. There are 16
contrast levels. Adjust the setting as for lighting to select the best
viewing level.
5. Press CLEAR to return to the chart screen, with the new lighting and
contrast levels retained.
Note: The CONTRAST and LIGHTS settings are retained when the unit
is powered down. However, if you set the LIGHTS value to less than 60%
brightness, the setting automatically returns to 60% brightness when the
unit is next turned on. This ensures that the screen is not too dim to view.
Tip: To achieve maximum brightness in sunlight and minimum brightness in dim ambient light conditions, you will need to adjust both the
LIGHTS and CONTRAST controls.
3.3 Simulator Mode
When simulator mode is started, your initial simulated position is
wherever the cursor was last positioned. To practice using the
chartplotter in a particular chart area, use the trackpad to pan to that area,
then switch simulator ON. When in Simulator mode, a flashing SIM
indication is displayed in the top left hand corner of the chart screen.
Note: If real position data is available and the simulator is active, simulated data takes precedence. On power-up the simulator defaults to its
previous setting on power-down.
CAUTION: Simulator Mode
Care should be taken to determine the desired mode on power-up.
Simulated data should never be used for navigational purposes.
➤ To view a chart image using simulated data:
1. Press the PAGE key to display the SET UP function bar:
D4694_1
24 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
2. Press trackpad left/right to highlight SYSTEM SET UP and press ENTER
to display the System Set Up menu.
3. Use trackpad up/down to highlight the SIMULATOR option.
4. Use trackpad left/right to select ON.
5. If necessary, use trackpad up/down to highlight, in turn, the SIMU-
LATED SOG and COG options and trackpad left/right to set as desired.
Speed is set in 1Kt intervals and Course in 1° intervals.
6. Press CLEAR twice to return to the chart screen.
7. A flashing SIM indicator appears at the top left of the chart screen.
3.4 Controlling the Display
This section describes how to:
• Change the display mode
• Move around the chart by panning the display, changing the chart
center and changing the chart scale
Selecting the Display Mode
Use the PAGE key to select the display mode. Select the following modes
by repeat presses of the PAGE key as listed below and as shown overleaf:
• Set Up functions (see Chapter 4)
• Course Deviation Indicator (CDI)
• Bearing & Distance Indication (BDI)
• Waypoint data
• Navigation data
• Time/Date data
• Return to Chart Display
Note: The setup function bar is displayed when first entering a screen,
press CLEAR to hide this bar.
Note: Press GOTO to return to normal Chart display at any time
Chapter 3: Getting Started 25
Press
to return to
Chart display
SUNRISE 05:05
SUNSET 21:14 TODAY
AT POSITION (VESSEL)
50°46.349'N
001°10.411'W
TIME 02:18
DATE 10/07/04
ETA (WAYPOINT) 03:03 10/07/04
TTG (WAYPOINT) 00:44
ETA (ROUTE) 03:44 10/07/04
TTG (ROUTE) 01:25
STEER STARBOARD
128 nm
EXETER
TEIGNMOUTH
ENPORT
PLYMOUTH
SALCOMBE
SYSTEM
SETUP
CSR 48°30.367'N
POS 1°35.636'W
TOPSHAM
EXMOUTH
TORQUAY
DARTMOUTH
CHART
SETUP
ALDERNEY
GUERNSEY
PORTLAND
HARBOUR
CAP DE
LA HAGUE
JERSEY
TRACK
SETUP
BRG 231°T
RNG 40.91nm
ISLE O
PORTB
GPS
SETUP
Press
to display CDI
SIM OV NU
> l
Press to display
Time/Date
information
POSITION
50°46.338'N
1°10.391'W
COG 313° T
SOG 5.0 Kts
WAYPOINT "HILLHEAD"
BRG 313°T GPS FIX OK
RNG 3.74nm TIME 02:15 10/07/04
STEER STARBOARD
> l
Press
to display
Navigation Data
Figure 3-1: Display Modes
Note: In any display mode,
press GOTO to return
to chart display
ROUTE
WAYPOINT 01
"CURRENT"
"HILLHEAD"
BRG 313° T
RNG 3.76 nm
COG 313°T TIME 02:15 10/07/04
SOG 5.0 Kts TTG 00:47
XTE 0.02nm ETA 03:02 10/07/04
STEER STARBOARD
> l
Press to display
BDI
STEER PORT
Press
to display
Waypoint Data
76
D6232-2
26 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Moving Around the Chart
The most common use of the chartplotter is to show your vessel’s current
location.
In the default North-Up orientation (shown as NU in the status box at the
top of the display), the vessel moves in relation to the screen. You will
need to reposition the chart if your vessel moves out of the area currently
displayed, or if you wish to examine or place waypoints in another area.
You ca n a lso home the cursor to the vessel using the FIND SHIP function.
“Homing” locks the vessel to the cursor and updates the display such that
the chart is re-drawn so that the vessel is always on screen. See Using
FIND SHIP below.
There are three ways in which you can reposition the chart:
• Use the trackpad to move the cursor to the edge of the chart; the chart
pans across. This method is useful if the area you wish to see is just off
screen.
• Automatically re-center the vessel using the FIND SHIP function.
• Change the chart scale using the RANGE OUT key to zoom out and in
to a new area. This method is useful if the area you wish to see is some
distance away.
Using FIND SHIP
FIND SHIP is used to re-draw the chart with the vessel at its center and the
cursor homed on the vessel.
➤ To center the vessel:
1. From chart mode, press ENTER; the primary function bar is displayed:
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
2. Select FIND SHIP; the following actions are performed:
• The chart is re-drawn with the vessel’s position in the center.
• The cursor is homed onto the vessel position and moves with it.
MORE¬
D6233-1
Chapter 3: Getting Started 27
• When the vessel moves near the edge of the chart window, the chart
is redrawn with the vessel at the center and the cursor homed on the
vessel.
• While homed, the status bar indicates position, SOG and COG.
• If SCREEN AMPLIFIER is enabled, the screen displays the vessel off-
set from center, to increase forward visibility, see Chapter 4:Setting
Up.
3. To release the cursor from homed mode press the trackpad to move
the cursor away from the vessel’s current position. The status bar
shows the cursor position, range and bearing from the vessel.
Changing the Chart Scale
The RANGE IN/OUT keys change the chart scale so that a larger or
smaller area is shown on the available cartography.
Plotter mode is available to allow you to zoom into a smaller area, even
when no chart data is available for that scale. To enable plotter mode, see
Chapter 4:Setting Up.
You can change the chart scale for two purposes:
• To see either a smaller area (in more detail) or a larger area (in less
detail)
• To move the display to another area of the chart, by zooming out to a
small scale chart, then zooming in to another location
Each time you press the RANGE IN or RANGE OUT keys, the chart scale
changes to the next available setting. The Status Bar at the top left-hand
side of the screen indicates the distance, from top to bottom of the display,
in nautical miles.
RANGE
OUT
Chart zoom out
RANGE
IN
Chart zoom in
SIM NU
128nm
Vertical distance displayed on chart
SIM NU
64nm
CSR 48°30.367'N
POS 1°35.636'W
CSR 48°30.367'N
POS 1°35.636'W
BRG 231°T
RNG 40.91nm
BRG 231°T
RNG 40.91nm
D6529-1
28 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
➤ For rapid scale change, press and hold the RANGE IN or RANGE OUT
key.
The distance indicator at the left-hand end of the status bar is updated
whenever you change the chart scale.
➤ To zoom in to a more detailed chart:
1. Use the trackpad to position the cursor in the area you wish to see in
more detail and press the RANGE IN key to zoom in.
The section of the chart around the cursor is enlarged to fill the screen
with the chart showing more detail. The cursor is now positioned in
the center of the screen.
2. If further chart enlargement is available using the current chart card
you can press the RANGE IN key to zoom in again, repositioning the
cursor first if needed.
An area of further chart detail is indicated by a box around the area.
Chart Boundary -
Indicates further
detail is available inside.
Shown when using
®
Navionics
Gold Chart Card
SIM OV NU
128 nm
TEIGNMOUTH
ENPORT
PLYMOUTH
FIND SHIP ROUTES
CSR 48°30.367'N
POS 1°35.636'W
EXETER
TOPSHAM
TORQUAY
DARTMOUTH
SALCOMBE
EXMOUTH
GUERNSEY
BRG 231°T
RNG 40.91nm
PORTLAND
HARBOUR
CAP DE
LA HAGUE
ALDERNEY
JERSEY
WAYPOINTS
ISLE O
PORTB
MORE¬
D6252-1
3. In normal operation, the unit will allow you to zoom in as far as the
chart detail allows. By selecting PLOTTER MODE in CHART SETUP you
can “overzoom” beyond that of the chart card and the vessel, way-
points, routes and tracklines will be displayed without cartography.
➤ To zoom out to a less detailed chart, press the RANGE OUT key as many
times as desired.
Chapter 3: Getting Started 29
3.5 Using Navionics Gold Chart Cards
The chartplotter has a built-in world map that can be used for route
planning. Most areas (these are shown with chart box boundaries) are
covered at a range of approximately 512nm as shown on the Status Bar at
the top of the screen.
To use the chartplotter as a navigation aid, charts with detailed
information for the area you wish to navigate are required. The charts are
available on Navionics Gold Chart cards, each of which can store up to 20
charts in an electronic format.
A Gold Chart card provides an appropriate level of detail for a given
geographic area and scale; this data can be displayed down to a range of
1
/8 nm on the screen (height) if the data is available.
To obtain Navionics Gold Chart cards, contact your local dealer or visit
www.navionics.com or www.navionics.it to find the dealer nearest you.
Call Navionics toll free from anywhere in North America at:
1-800-848-5896.
Outside of North America, contact your local dealer or:
Navionics S.p.A.
Tel: (+39) 0584 961696
Fax: (+39) 0584 961309
Loading the Chart Data
A Gold Chart Card can hold multiple chart area portfolios. When the
flash card is inserted for the first time and the display powered on the
following is displayed.
1G737T32-FLORIDA SE
LOAD
CHART
"ENTER" TO LOAD
"CLEAR" TO QUIT
D6249-1
30 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Note: Only one chart portfolio can be loaded from the Gold Chart Card
to the display memory at a time.
Use the trackpad up/down to select the desired chart and press ENTER to
load it into the chartplotter’s memory.
If a different portfolio is desired this can be accessed by the SELECT
CHART option (see Select Chart on page 41).
Displaying the Chart Data
The new chart data will be displayed when you move the cursor into an
area covered by the new chart.
The boundary of each chart is defined by a box or rectangle. (You can
switch off the chart boundaries display as part of chart set up described in
Chapter 4:Setting Up).
Chapter 4: Setting Up 31
Chapter 4: Setting Up
4.1 Introduction
When you have installed your system and are familiar with its basic
operation, you can set it up to operate according to your preferences.
This is achieved using the function controls that are displayed when the
PAGE key is pressed. These settings can be changed at any time.
When your preferences are set, they remain until they are reset and are
retained even when the unit is powered off.
This chapter covers the following topics:
• System parameters and default settings
• Chartplotter-specific parameters and default settings
• GPS status and default settings
The set up parameters are selected via three soft keys:
• System Set Up: controlling overall functionality
• Chart Set Up: controlling the chartplotter functions, including way-
point information and vectors
• GPS Set Up: displaying the GPS Antenna status
Note: The additional TRACK SET UP function is covered in Chapter 5:Op-
eration.
This section provides instructions for displaying and changing the
factory default values to your preferences. The following sections list the
parameters with their possible settings and describe the function of each
parameter in turn.
4.2 System Set Up Parameters
➤ To set the System default parameters:
1. From chart mode, with no function bar displayed, press the PAGE key
to display the SET UP function bar:
D4694_1
32 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
2. Use trackpad left/right to highlight SYSTEM SET UP and press ENTER
to display the System Set Up menu:
SYSTEM SET UP
BEARING MODE
DISTANCE UNITS
SPEED UNITS KNOTS
DEPTH UNITS
VARIATION
VARIATION MODE AUTO
DATE FORMAT
TIME OFFSET
LANGUAGE
SIMULATOR
SIMULATED SOG
SIMULATED COG ____
SCREEN SAVER
LIGHT SAVER
TRUE
NM
METRES
_.__
DD/MM/YY
UTC
ENGLISH
OFF
____
OFF
OFF
D6531-1
Figure 4-1: System Set Up Menu
3. Use trackpad up/down to move the highlight up or down the list.
4. When the desired parameter is highlighted, use trackpad left/right to
step through the settings.
5. When the desired values have been chosen, press ENTER to imple-
ment the change and return to the set up function bar.
Note: Settings are not saved until the ENTER key is pressed.
6. Press CLEAR to clear the function bar and return to normal operation.
Note: To return all settings to their original factory settings, perform a
factory reset as described in Chapter 6.
The table below lists the System menus and their options, shows the
factory default settings and provides space to make a note of personal
settings. Each parameter is described in the following subsections.
Chapter 4: Setting Up 33
Menu Item Options
Factory
Default New Setting
BEARING MODE
DISTANCE
UNITS
SPEED UNITS KNOTS
DEPTH UNITS METRES
VARIATION 30°W to 30°E (1° steps) 0.0°E
VARIATION
MODE
DATE FORMAT DD/MM/YY or MM/DD/YY DD/MM/YY
TIME OFFSET UTC or local offset value
LANGUAGE Multi Language ENGLISH
SIMULATOR OFF/ON OFF
SIMULATED
SOG
SIMULATED
COG
MAGnetic/TRUE TRUE
NAUTICAL MILES (nm)
KILOMETERS (km)
STATUTE MILES (sm)
KILOMETERS PER HOUR (KPH)
MILES PER HOUR (MPH)
FEET
FATHO MS
MANUAL
AUTO
up to 13 hours in 1 hour steps
00Kt to 99Kt in 1Kt steps 00Kt
000° to 359° in 1° steps 000°
NAUTICAL
MILES
KNOTS
METRES
AUTO
UTC
SCREEN SAVER 5s to 1 min, in 5 s steps; or
LIGHT SAVER 5s to 1 min, in 5 s steps; or
Bearing Mode
The mode (MAGnetic or TRUE) of all bearing and heading data displayed.
This is indicated by M or T in the BRG or COG field of the Chart status bar.
1 min to 59 min, in 1min steps
OFF
OFF
1 min to 59 min, in 1min steps
34 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Units
This sets the units for distance, speed and depth. This setting will be used
to display all data. However, the distance units do not affect the chart
scale, which is always in nautical miles.
Variation
The variation value is the difference between True and Magnetic
direction data for heading or bearing values. The Magnetic value is
derived from True by applying the user selected value of variation.
The variation is set in 1° steps to 30° East or West. Press trackpad right to
move the value eastward, or left to move it westward. The selected value
is retained when the unit is switched off. The Default value is zero.
Note: Variation can only be changed if the VARIATION MODE is set to
MANUAL
Variation Mode
This can be set to AUTO or MANUAL. In AUTO mode, the RC400
automatically calculates and sets the magnetic variation. Set this to
MANUAL to enter your own value.
Date Format
Set the preferred date format (DD/MM/YY or MM/DD/YY). The selected
setting is retained when the unit switched off. The Default is DD/MM/YY.
Time Offset
To display local time, use the trackpad to change from UTC (Universal
Time Constant, also known as GMT) to the desired time offset. This can
be up to ±13 hours, in 1 hour steps. The default is UTC.
Language
Select the language in which information is to be displayed. The selected
language is used for screen text, labels, menus and options. Chart text,
provided by the chart card, is not affected.
Chapter 4: Setting Up 35
Simulator
The simulator enables operation of the RC400 without data from external
sources. The options are ON or OFF.
When ON is selected the simulator generates position, SOG and COG
data and uses the simulated data instead of any real data. A flashing SIM
status indicator is displayed in the left hand corner of the Status Bar at the
top of the screen.
Note: The simulated data overrides any real data that the display unit is
receiving from externally connected equipment.
The position is initially the position of the cursor when the simulator is
switched on and the SOG and COG are as selected by the user. The
position is updated to reflect the SOG and COG. See Simulated SOG and
Simulated COG below.
If a GOTO or Follow is started, the simulator does not use the selected
value of COG but, instead, generates a value of COG that simulates the
navigation function in progress. When GOTO or Follow is stopped, the
user selected value of COG is used.
Simulated SOG
Use horizontal movements of the trackpad to adjust the value of SOG
which is adjustable in 1 knot intervals from 00 to 99.
The Default value is zero and the selected value is retained on power
down.
If the simulator is switched OFF, the value is shown as dashes and no
adjustment is possible.
Simulated COG
Use horizontal movements of the trackpad to adjust the value of COG
which is adjustable in 1° intervals from 000° to 359°. It wraps around
from 000 to 359 and from 359 to 000.
The Default value is zero and the selected value is retained on power
down.
If the simulator is switched OFF, the value is shown as dashes and no
adjustment is possible.
36 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Screen Saver
This function defines the timeout period after which the LCD is switched
off following keypad inactivity.
Either OFF (when this function is disabled) or the timeout value (either in
minutes or in seconds) is shown.
Move the trackpad horizontally to adjust the value of the timeout. The
sequence of the values is as follows:
• OFF
• from 5 seconds to 1 minute, in steps of 5 seconds
• from 1 minute to 59 minutes, in steps of 1 minute
For example, a setting of 5 MIN switches off the LCD after the keypad has
not been pressed for 5 minutes.
The LCD is switched on again following the next key press. The selected
value is retained on power down. The default is OFF.
Light Saver
This function defines the timeout period after which the backlight is
switched off following keypad inactivity.
Either OFF (when this function is disabled) or the timeout value (either in
minutes or in seconds) is shown.
Move the trackpad horizontally to adjust the value of the timeout. The
sequence of the values is as follows:
• OFF
• from 5 seconds to 1 minute, in steps of 5 seconds
• from 1 minute to 59 minutes, in steps of 1 minute
For example, a setting of 5 MIN switches off the backlight after the
keypad has not been pressed for 5 minutes.
The backlight is switched on again following the next key press. The
selected value is retained on power down. The default is OFF.
Chapter 4: Setting Up 37
4.3 Chart Set Up Parameters
The CHART SET UP function allows the chartplotter to be set up according
to your system configuration and your personal preferences.
➤ To set the Chart default parameters:
1. Press the PAGE key to display the SET UP function bar:
D4694_1
2. Use the trackpad left/right to highlight the CHART SET UP function and
press ENTER to display the Chart Set Up menu:
ORIENTATION
SPOT SOUNDINGS
Figure 4-2: Chart Set Up Menu
D6248-1
38 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
3. Use trackpad up/down to highlight the desired parameter, then use
trackpad left/right to select the desired setting.
Note: There are two screens for Chart Set-up. Scroll past MORE... to ac-
cess the other screen.
4. When the desired values have been set, press ENTER to clear the
menu and return to the set up function bar.
5. Press CLEAR to return to the normal display.
The table below list s the Chart Set up parameters and their options, shows
the factory default setting and provides a space to make a note of the new
default setting.
.
Parameter Options
Factory
Default New Setting
ORIENTATION NORTH UP
COURSE UP
HEAD UP
PLOTTER MODE OFF/ON ON
SHOW WAYPOINTS OFF/ON ON
WAYPOINT SYMBOL FISH, SKULL,
ANCHOR or X
AUTOZOOM OFF/ON ON
SCREEN AMPLIFIER OFF/ON ON
COG VECTOR OFF/ON OFF
ARRIVAL CIRCLE 0.01nm, 0.05nm,
0.1nm, 0.5nm
ANCHOR ALARM OFF, 0.01nm,
0.05nm, 0.1nm,
0.5nm
XTE ALARM OFF, 0.01nm,
0.05nm, 0.1nm,
0.3nm, 0.5nm
SELECT CHART OFF/LOAD CHART OFF
CHART TEXT OFF/ON ON
CHART BOUNDARIES OFF/ON ON
NORTH UP
X
0.1nm
OFF
OFF
SAFETY CONTOURS OFF/2m/5m/10m/
20m
2m
Chapter 4: Setting Up 39
Parameter Options
DEPTH CONTOURS OFF/5m/10m/20m/
SPOT SOUNDINGS OFF/ON ON
LIGHT SECTORS OFF/ON ON
PRESENTATION INTERNATIONAL
POSITION CALIBRATION
Orientation
The chart orientation is normally North Up, but can be changed to Course
Up or Head Up. The selected mode is always shown in the inverse video
Mode Indicator in the top left hand corner of the Status Bar at the top of
the display in the form NU (North Up), HU (Heading Up) or CU (Course
Up). The orientation modes function as follows:
• North Up: The chart is displayed with north upwards. This is the
default mode and is the only mode available if there is no COG data.
• Course Up: The chart is rotated such that the currently selected
course (bearing to the target waypoint) or, if no navigation function is
taking place, the current COG value is shown upwards.
To update the Course Up reference while Course Up is the current
mode, re-select COURSE UP from the set up menu.
If a new course is selected (a new target waypoint, for example), the
chart displays the new course upwards.
• Head Up: The chart is displayed with the vessel’s current COG
upwards. As the heading changes the chart rotates periodically to
maintain orientation.
Note: Head Up and Course Up modes are dependent upon a valid GPS
fix.
Factory
Default New Setting
ALL
U.S.
OFF/ON OFF
5m
INTERNATIONAL
Plotter Mode
Plotter mode allows the user to zoom in beyond the level of cartography
and continue to use plotter functions. The selected setting is retained
when unit switched off.
40 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Show Waypoints
This option controls whether or not the waypoints are shown on the Chart
display, with their appropriate symbols. The active waypoint, and
waypoints in the current route, are always shown.
Waypoint Symbol
This option allows selection of the symbol for waypoint display. The
selected symbol is used for subsequent waypoints. Existing waypoints
are not affected. The selected symbol is retained when the unit switched
off.
Autozoom
When autozoom is enabled, initializing any navigation function or
selecting FIND SHIP activates Autozoom. When active, this selects the
chart range and position such that the vessel and the target waypoint are
both on screen but at the largest scale possible. Moving the cursor off the
vessel, or changing scale, deactivates Autozoom.
Autozoom will not zoom in beyond the largest cartographic scale (unless
Plotter Mode is activated). When in MOB mode, Autozoom is selected
automatically and will zoom in as far as possible, irrespective of the
selection of Plotter Mode.
Screen Amplifier
Screen amplifier mode makes best use of the screen by positioning the
vessel on the screen so as to increase forward visibility. The screen
amplifier is only active when the cursor is “homed” on the vessel.
COG Vector
When ON, a vector line from the vessel is drawn in the direction of COG.
This line extends to the edge of the screen. If COG is not valid, no line is
drawn. The selected setting is retained when the unit switched off.
Arrival Circle
The selected value is used as the arrival circle radius. When approaching
the target waypoint, this is the distance at which the arrival alarm is
triggered. The selected setting is retained when unit switched off. Arrival
criteria are met when the arrival circle is entered or a line perpendicular to
the desired track and passing through the waypoint is crossed.
Chapter 4: Setting Up 41
Anchor Alarm
The selected value is used as the anchor alarm distance. If the vessel
moves outside of the selected distance from its position (at the time that
the alarm was enabled) an alarm message is displayed.
Pressing any key removes the warning and resets the distance. The alarm
will not be triggered again unless the vessel moves the selected distance
from its position (at the time that the alarm was turned off). The alarm is
set to OFF on power up.
XTE Alarm
The selected value is used as the cross track error limit. The alarm is
triggered when the cross track error exceeds the selected limit when a
GOTO or a Route Follow is in progress and an alarm message is displayed.
Select Chart
Use SELECT CHART to access different charts from the same Gold Card.
1G737T32-FLORIDA SE
LOAD
CHART
Use the trackpad up/down buttons to select the desired chart and press
ENTER to load this as the active chart.
Note: Only one chart can be active at any one time.
Chart Text
When ON, Chart text (such as place names) are shown on the screen. The
selected setting is retained when the unit switched off.
"ENTER" TO LOAD
"CLEAR" TO QUIT
D6249-1
42 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Chart Boundaries
When ON, Chart boundary lines are shown on the screen. The selected
setting is retained when the unit switched off.
Safety Contours
Set to display safety contours of less than 2, 5, 10 and 20 meters or set to
OFF. The selected setting is retained when the unit switched off.
Depth Contours
Set to display depth contours of 5, 10 and 20 meters, set to ALL to sh ow al l
contours or set to OFF. The selected setting is retained when the unit
switched off.
Spot Soundings
When ON, spot soundings are displayed. The selected setting is retained
when the unit switched off.
Light Sectors
When ON, light sectors are displayed. The selected setting is retained
when the unit switched off.
Presentation
Set to display navigation mark in either INTERNATIONAL or US
symbology. The selected setting is retained when the unit is switched off.
Position Calibration
When ON, all position data is offset from WGS 84 by the value of the
selected calibration. The selected setting is retained when the unit
switched off. The default calibration offset is zero.
➤ To perform position calibration:
1. Use the trackpad to select POSITION CALIBRATION.
2. Move the trackpad horizontally.
The menu is removed and a single function and help text are shown:
D4713-1
Chapter 4: Setting Up 43
3. Using the trackpad, set the desired offset value. The distance and
bearing o f cursor from ve ssel is displaye d in the Status Ba r as BRG and
RNG.
4. Press CLEAR to reset the value to zero and return to the Chart Set Up
menu.
—or—
Press ENTER to confirm the selected offset value.You are returned to
the Chart Set Up menu with POSITION CALIBRATION set to ON. Position data is followed by “(c)” to indicate that the calibration offset has
been set.
An offset of 2nm or less is applied to all position data equal to the range
and bearing between the WGS 84 position and the position entered.
Note: Pressing ENTER with a selected offset of more than 2nm gives a
warning message which is cleared on any key press. The Calibration Set
Up mode maintains and the user can either reselect an acceptable offset
or press CLEAR to reset the value to zero and return to the Set Up menu.
4.4 GPS Setup
The GPS set up page provides information for the status of the tracked
navigation satellites plus HDOP and satellite Fix Status. It also provides
the ability to select the SD satellite and to reset the GPS system.
➤ To select GPS Set Up:
1. Press the PAGE key to display the SET UP functions:
2. Use the trackpad to highlight the GPS SET UP function and press
ENTER to display the GPS STATUS screen and soft key. GPS STATUS is
displayed.
D4694_1
44 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
GPS STATUS
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
122
HDOP
FIX STATUS
0
0
SD-FIX1.0
D6250-1
SD-GPS
ENABLE
RESET
GPS
D6253-2
Figure 4-3: GPS Status Screen and Soft Key
The GPS STATUS screen provides, for each tracked satellite, the satellite
number, a graphical signal strength bar, status, azimuth angle and its
elevation angle from your vessel.
Positional accuracy is dependent upon these parameters; in particular, the
azimuth and elevation angles are used in a triangulation process to
calculate your position. HDOP (Horizontal Dilution Of Position) is a
measure of this accuracy; a higher figure signifies greater error. In ideal
circumstances, the figure should be in the region of 1.0. The Fix Status
can indicate:
• SD-FIX, where a Satellite Differential fix has been acquired
• FIX OK, where a normal GPS fix has been acquired
• NO FIX, where no satellite fix can be acquired
Chapter 4: Setting Up 45
➤ To enable or disable SD-GPS mode.
1. Using the trackpad left/right highlight SD-GPS in the function bar.
SD-GPS
ENABLE
RESET
GPS
D6253-2
2. Press ENTER to toggle between SD-GPS ENABLE and SD-GPS OFF.
• Select ON to allow the unit to use SD corrections if available.
• Select OFF to force the unit to calculate a normal GPS fix with no
satellite GPS corrections.
3. Press CLEAR twice to return to the normal display.
➤ To reset SD-GPS.
1. Using the trackpad left/right highlight RESET GPS in the function bar
and press ENTER.
2. Press CLEAR twice to return to the normal display.
46 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Chapter 5: Operation 47
Chapter 5: Operation
5.1 Introduction
This chapter explains how to use the chart functions to navigate with the
RC4300.
5.2 Working with Waypoints
The RC400 enables you to place up to 500 waypoints. A waypoint is a
position entered on a chart as a reference or destination point. All
waypoints placed on the chartplotter are stored in a waypoint database list
which includes symbol, position, bearing, range, date and time.
All waypoints in the database are displayed on screen, unless the SHOW
WAYPOINTS is set to OFF in the Chart Set Up menu, as described on page
40. A waypoint can be selected, either on-screen or from the list, for
editing.
Waypoints can be placed either using the cursor, or at the vessel’s
position, or at a specific lat./long. Waypoints can also be placed before
the chartplotter is installed on your vessel.
When a new waypoint is placed, it is displayed using either the default
symbol of a cross or an alternative symbol available from the Chart Set
Up menu, as described in Chapter 4. The waypoint is added to the
waypoint list and named with the next available number.
The edit functions can be used to change the symbol and name. When the
cursor is positioned over a waypoint, the waypoint bearing and range are
displayed.
Waypoints can also be transferred between the chartplotter, other NMEA
connected instruments or a PC, using the Waypoint Transfer functions.
This section explains how to perform the following tasks using the onscreen cursor and the waypoint list:
• Placing a Waypoint
• Selecting a Waypoint
• Displaying Waypoint data
• Editing a Waypoint (symbol, name & position)
• Erasing a Waypoint
• Moving a Waypoint
48 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Placing a Waypoint
Note: It is not possible to place multiple waypoints at the same position.
➤ To place a new waypoint:
1. From chart mode, press ENTER; the primary function bar is displayed
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
MORE¬
D6233-1
2. Using trackpad left/right, select WAYPOINTS.
PLACE WPT
AT CURSOR
PLACE WPT
AT VESSEL
PLACE WPT
AT POS
WAYPOINT
LIST
D6236-1
3. To place a waypoint at the cursor position:
i. Select PLACE WPT AT CURSOR. A description of the options avail-
able is displayed.
PLACE
WAYPOINT
MOVE CURSOR, "ENTER"TO PLACE
WAYPOINT, "CLEAR" TO QUIT
D4670-1
ii. Place the cursor in the desired position on the chart and press
ENTER to place the waypoint. The waypoint is added to the way-
point list and named using the next available number.
The waypoint functions remain displayed so that further waypoints can be placed.
Use EDIT WAYPOINT to name the waypoint as described in Editing
Waypoint Details on page 52.
iii.When finished placing waypoints, press CLEAR.
4. To place a waypoint at the vessel’s position:
Select PLACE WPT AT VESSEL. A new waypoint is placed at the ves-
sel’s current position. If there is no position data available then no
waypoint is placed.
Chapter 5: Operation 49
5. To place a waypoint at a known position (lat./long):
Select PLACE WPT AT POS. A box appears in the center of the screen
with the current cursor position (lat./long). Use the trackpad left/right
to select the value and the trackpad up/down to change the value.
Press ENTER to place the waypoint or CLEAR to cancel.
6. To place a waypoint using the Waypoint List:
Select WAYPOINT LIST. The Waypoint List and associated function
Soft Keys are displayed:
SIM NU
Figure 5-1: Waypoint List Display
D4991-3
7. Select MAKE NEW WAYPOINT.
The waypoint is placed at the current vessel position or, if a GPS fix is
not available, the cursor position. The new waypoint is added to the
Waypoint List and named with the next available number.
The EDIT WAYPOINT function is now highlighted allowing you to
change the waypoint name, symbol or position. See page 52 for
detailed information.
To return to chart mode, press CLEAR twice.
50 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Selecting a Waypoint
Positioning the cursor over a waypoint selects that waypoint and accesses
the WAYPOINT OPTIONS function bar. This enables you to GoTo
(described in Section 5.4), edit (name, symbol), erase or move the
waypoint.
Selecting a waypoint from the Waypoint List allows you to GoTo and edit
(symbol, name, position, erase) the waypoint. The Waypoint List also
provides options to make a new waypoint and transfer waypoints.
➤ To select a waypoint using the cursor:
1. Move the cursor over the waypoint; the WAYPOINT OPTIONS function
bar, together with help text, is displayed:
D4718-1
2. Press ENTER to select the waypoint function bar.
D4672-1
The selected waypoint can be edited via these functions.
➤ To select a waypoint using the Waypoint List:
1. Press ENTER to display the primary function bar.
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
2. Select WAYPOINTS and press ENTER to display the waypoint function
bar.
PLACE WPT
AT CURSOR
PLACE WPT
AT VESSEL
PLACE WPT
AT POS
MORE¬
D6233-1
WAYPOINT
LIST
D6236-1
Chapter 5: Operation 51
3. Select WAYPOINT LIST and press ENTER to display the Waypoint List.
The Waypoint List and associated function bar are displayed (see Fig-
ure 5-1 ).
The list details all waypoints. The selected waypoint is indicated by
the highlight bar with its position; bearing and range are provided (if
GPS fix available).
4. Use trackpad up/down to move through the list to highlight the
desired waypoint.
The selected waypoint can be edited using the EDIT WAYPOINT function.
Waypoint Data Display
Waypoint data can be viewed in two ways: the cursor can be used to select
the waypoint to display the waypoint data in the status bar at the top of the
screen, or the waypoint details can be viewed on the waypoint list.
➤ To display waypoint data:
Move the cursor over the waypoint. The waypoint data is displayed in the
status bar, indicating waypoint number/name, bearing and range from
vessel (dashes are shown if no fix is available).
While the cursor is over the waypoint, the WAYPOINT OPTIONS function
bar is displayed.
➤ To remove the waypoint data:
Move the cursor away from the waypoint or press CLEAR.
➤ To display the waypoint details from the waypoint list:
Select the waypoint in the list as described above.
The details for the selected waypoint are displayed in the lower half of the
window. Date and time are included for all waypoints where this
information was available when the waypoint was placed.
To remove the Waypoint List and return to chart mode, press CLEAR
three times.
52 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Editing Waypoint Details
The name, symbol and position of a waypoint can be changed, either by
means of the cursor or via the Waypoint List.
Note: The target waypoint cannot be edited.
➤ To edit a waypoint using the cursor:
1. Place the cursor over the waypoint.
2. Select WAYPOINT OPTIONS and press ENTER to display the Edit Way-
point function bar.
3. Select EDIT WAYPOINT. The Edit Waypoint function bar is displayed.
D4673-1
4. To edit the waypoint name, select EDIT NAME.
The NAME WAYPOINT window is displayed.
5. Use the trackpad to enter or edit the name as follows:
• Use trackpad left/right to move the cursor to the character to be
changed. Up to eight characters can be used.
• Use trackpad up/down to scroll through the characters.
• When editing is complete, press ENTER; the waypoint name is
updated and the window is removed
6. To edit the symbol, select EDIT SYMBOL.
The SELECT SYMBOL options are displayed.
D4674-1
7. Use trackpad left/right to highlight the desired symbol, then press
ENTER.
Chapter 5: Operation 53
➤ To edit a waypoint using the Waypoint List:
1. From chart mode, press ENTER to display the primary function bar.
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
2. Using trackpad left/right, select WAYPOINTS.
PLACE WPT
AT CURSOR
ARCHIVES
PLACE WPT
AT VESSEL
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
PLACE WPT
AT POS
MORE¬
D6233-1
WAYPOINT
LIST
D6236-1
3. Select WAYPOINT LIST; the Waypoint List is displayed, with its associ-
ated function bar.
D4692-1
4. Select EDIT WAYPOINT; the waypoint edit functions are displayed.
D4675-1
5. To edit the waypoint name, select EDIT NAME; the cursor is placed in
the name field of the selected waypoint.
i. Edit the name as previously described (up to eight characters).
6. To edit the waypoint symbol, select EDIT SYMBOL.
i. Use trackpad left/right to highlight the desired symbol.
ii. Press ENTER to accept the choice or CLEAR to abort the operation.
7. To change the waypoint’s position, select EDIT POSITION. The cursor
is placed in the Position field in the Waypoint List.
i. Use trackpad left/right to select the latitude/longitude fields.
ii. Use trackpad up/down to scroll through and edit the values.
iii.When editing is complete, press ENTER to save the new position
or CLEAR to abort the operation.
54 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Erasing Waypoints
Note: A waypoint that is the target waypoint or waypoints that are also
used in any saved route(s) cannot be erased. If an attempt is made to
erase a waypoint that is used in a saved route, the warning “WAYPOINT IS
USED IN ROUTE(S) AND CANNOT BE ERASED” is displayed.
➤ To delete a waypoint using the cursor:
1. Place the cursor over the waypoint; see Selecting a Waypoint on page
50.
2. Select WAYPOINT OPTIONS and press ENTER to display the Waypoint
function bar.
3. Select ERASE WAYPOINT. A warning box appears. Press ENTER to
erase or CLEAR to retain. If erased, the waypoint list is updated and
the screen is cleared.
➤ To delete a waypoint using the waypoint list:
1. Select the waypoint from the waypoint list as previously described.
The waypoint list function bar is displayed.
2. Use trackpad up/down to move through the list to highlight the
desired waypoint.
3. Select EDIT WAYPO INT and press ENTER to display the Edit Waypoint
function bar.
4. Select ERASE WAYPOINT. Press ENTER to erase the waypoint.
To return to chart mode, press CLEAR three times.
Moving Waypoints
Any waypoint, except the target waypoint, can be moved. The Waypoint
function bar and cursor are used to move the selected waypoint, or the
waypoint position can be edited.
Note: Take care when editing waypoints as it is possible to move waypoints that are used in routes stored in the Route Database List.
➤ To move a waypoint using the cursor:
1. Place the cursor over the waypoint; see Selecting a Waypoint on page
50.
2. Select WAYPOINT OPTIONS and press ENTER to display the Edit Way-
point function bar.
3. Select MOVE WAYPOINT. The selected (highlighted) function now has
help text appended to it.
Chapter 5: Operation 55
CURSOR SELECT POS, "ENTER"
MOVES WPT, "CLEAR" TO QUIT
D4676-1
4. Move the cursor to the desired waypoint position.
5. When the cursor is in the correct position, press ENTER to set the new
position and return to normal cursor control.
To return to chart mode, press CLEAR twice.
➤ To move a waypoint using the Waypoint List:
1. Select the waypoint using the Waypoint List as described above. The
waypoint functions are displayed.
2. To edit the waypoint position proceed as previously described in
Editing Waypoint Details on page 52.
5.3 Working with Routes
A route is made up of a series of waypoints (maximum 50). A route is
made by placing a series of waypoints on the chart.
When a route is created it becomes the current route and is displayed onscreen. The current route is maintained after power-off. Only one route
can be current and is displayed (if it is in the field-of-view) as solid lines
connecting waypoints. If following the route, the current leg is shown as
a dotted line.
After a route has been created, the GOTO/MOB key can be used to follow
the route. The GOTO/MOB key provides various other options as
described in Section 5.4, Following Routes and Going to Target Points.
Up to 20 routes can be saved in the route database. Any one of these can
be selected from the database to be used as the current route.
The current route can be edited by adding and/or moving waypoints.
When a route has been saved, options are also provided to name or erase
a route.
This section explains how to perform the following tasks:
• Create a new route
• Save the current route in the database
• Clear the current route
• Retrieve a route from the database list as the current route
• Display route information, including route leg data and waypoint
details
56 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
• Use the database list to erase and name existing routes
• Edit a route by adding, removing and moving waypoints
Note: The system is limited to 500 unique waypoints yet 20 routes of 50
waypoints as stated above are permissible. This figure is achieved by using waypoints in more than one route.
➤ To access the route function bar:
1. Press ENTER to display the primary function bar.
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
2. Select ROUTES to display the first level functions.
3. Select MORE to see more functions.
4. Select MORE again to return to the first level functions.
5. Press CLEAR twice to return to chart mode.
Creating a New Route
Note: If there is a current route on screen, it is cleared when MAKE
ROUTE is selected. Ensure that this route is saved before continuing. If
following the current route you must STOP FOLLOW (see page 72) before
a new route can be created.
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
MORE¬
D6233-1
D4677-1
D4678-1
Waypoints in a route can be added/removed after it has been created,
either via the ROUTES function or via the cursor (see Editing a Route in the
following sections).
Chapter 5: Operation 57
➤ To make a new route by placing waypoints:
Note: You can pan the chart and change the scale while placing waypoints.
1. If necessary, move the cursor to the desired area in which to make the
route and select a suitable chart scale.
2. Select ROUTES then MAKE ROUTE. The MAKE ROUTE function is
replaced with PLACE WAYPOINT, together with help text:
D4679-1
3. Move the cursor to the position on the chart where the first waypoint
is to be placed and press ENTER.
Note: You can place the cursor on an existing waypoint, if desired; the
PLACE WAYPOINT function changes to USE THIS WAYPOINT. Press ENTER
to use the waypoint.
The waypoint appears on the screen at the cursor position. The number
displayed alongside the waypoint identifies its position in the route.
Note: If the route is Cleared before it is saved, the waypoint is removed.
4. Move the cursor to the next waypoint position; a dotted line connects
the cursor to the last placed waypoint.
5. Press ENTER again. The next waypoint is placed and the dotted line
changes to a solid line.
Note: If the waypoint was placed incorrectly, it can be deleted by pressing CLEAR. Successive waypoints can be deleted in this way.
6. Repeat Step 4. and Step 5. until all waypoints have been placed. Up to
50 waypoints can be included in a route. Any existing waypoint(s)
can be included by placing the cursor on the waypoint(s).
7. When all waypoints have been entered, press and release the GOTO/
MOB key to complete the route. The route is displayed on screen and
is the current route but is not active, that is, not being followed.
8. Select MORE to access the SAVE ROUTE function, or CLEAR to return
to chart mode.
Note: The completed route is stored in the unit’s memory and will be re-
displayed if the unit is switched off and on again. However, Raymarine
recommends that you save the route as described below. The current
route waypoints do not appear in the waypoint list until the route is saved.
58 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Saving the Current Route
You can save up to 20 named routes in the route database. These routes
can then be re-displayed and followed subsequently.
Note: If you attempt an operation that affects this route (CLEAR ROUTE,
for example) before the current route is saved, you are prompted to save
it.
➤ To save and name the current route:
1. Select ROUTES, followed by MORE.
2. Select SAVE ROUTE. The Save Route list is displayed.
3. The next available entry on the list is highlighted. You can use trackpad up/down to select another position in the list, which can be a
blank slot or an existing route you no longer need.
D4680-1
4. Press ENTER to save the route.
Press ENTER again (in response to the prompt) to name the route or
CLEAR to save as the default ROUTE XX, where XX is the next avail-
able number.
When naming a route, use the trackpad to move the cursor right or left to
the character to be edited. Use trackpad up/down to scroll through the
characters. The name can contain up to eight alphanumeric characters,
including spaces.
5. Press ENTER to finish and clear the Route List, then press CLEAR
twice to return to the chart mode.
Chapter 5: Operation 59
Clearing the Current Route from the Screen
To clear the current route from the screen, select CLEAR ROUTE. If the
current route has not been saved, you are prompted to save it.
➤ To clear the current route from the screen:
1. Select ROUTES or place the cursor over a route leg until the leg data is
displayed in the Status Bar.
2. Select CLEAR ROUTE and press ENTER to clear the route or press
CLEAR to cancel the operation.
3. If the route has not been saved, a prompt gives the options ENTER to
save or CLEAR to remove the route from the screen.
4. To save the route in the database, press ENTER. The Name Route
functions are displayed, see Saving the Current Route on page 58.
Retrieving a Route from the Database
A route from the database list can be selected as the current route. The list
is accessed from the second set of ROUTES functions.
➤ To select a route as the current route:
1. Select ROUTES, followed by MORE, then ROUTE LIST. The route list is
displayed with the currently selected route highlighted (Figure 5-2 ).
2. Select SHOW ROUTE. The route list is removed and the selected route
is shown on screen as the current route.
60 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
SIM OV NU
128 nm
TEIGNMOUTH
ENPORT
PLYMOUTH
CSR 48°30.367'N
POS 1°35.636'W
EXETER
TOPSHAM
TORQUAY
DARTMOUTH
SALCOMBE
EXMOUTH
GUERNSEY
BRG 231°T
RNG 40.91nm
PORTLAND
HARBOUR
CAP DE
LA HAGUE
ALDERNEY
ISLE O
SHOW
ROUTE
ERASE
ROUTE
JERSEY
ROUTE
INFO
PORTB
NAME
ROUTE
D6237_1
Figure 5-2: Route List Display
Displaying Route Leg and Waypoint Information
➤ To display information about a route leg, move the cursor over the leg
until its data is displayed in the status bar at the top of the screen
To remove the data, move the cursor away from the route leg or press
CLEAR.
➤ To display information about a route waypoint, move the cursor over the
waypoint until its pop-up data box is displayed.
To remove the data, move the cursor away from the waypoint or press
CLEAR.
Chapter 5: Operation 61
Erasing or (re)Naming a Route
A route can be deleted or re-named via the Route List. When deleting a
route, you are prompted to confirm.
➤ To select a route to delete:
1. Select ROUTES, followed by MORE, then ROUTE LIST. The route list is
displayed with the selected route highlighted.
2. Select ERASE ROUTE.
3. Press ENTER to erase the route from the list. A warning box appears,
prompting you to press ENTER to confirm or CLEAR to cancel the
operation.
4. Press CLEAR three times to return to normal chart operation.
➤ To select a route to (re)name:
1. Select ROUTES, followed by MORE, then ROUTE LIST. The route list is
displayed with the selected route highlighted.
2. Select NAME ROUTE. and press ENTER.
3. To name or rename a route, use trackpad left/right to select each character to be edited. Use trackpad up/down to scroll through the characters.
4. Press ENTER to accept the new name or CLEAR to cancel the opera-
tion.
5. Press CLEAR three times to clear the Route List and return to chart
mode.
Route Info
A list of the waypoints in your route, their bearing and range, the time
taken to complete and estimated time of arrival (ETA) can be obtained by
using the ROUTE INFO function.
1. Select ROUTES, followed by MORE, then ROUTE LIST. The route list is
displayed with the selected route highlighted.
2. Select ROUTE INFO. and press ENTER.
62 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
TIME
ETA
ACTUAL
SOG
PLANNED
SOG
D6238-2
Figure 5-3: Route Info
The route is displayed as a series of legs. For each leg the next waypoint
position, leg bearing, leg distance, total distance and elapsed time at
current Speed over Ground (SOG) is listed. Press the trackpad up/down
keys to scroll through the list.
3. To display the ETA at each route waypoint select TIME ETA and press
ENTER.
4. To enter a planned SOG (rather than actual SOG) select PLANNED
SOG. and press ENTER.
Use the trackpad left/right keys to change the planned SOG value
and press ENTER to recalculate route with this value.
5. To recalculate using actual SOG, select ACTUAL SOG and press
ENTER.
6. Press CLEAR four times to return to chart mode.
Chapter 5: Operation 63
Editing a Route
A route may be edited in order to:
• Add a Waypoint into a route
• Remove a Waypoint from a route
• Move a Waypoint (as described in Section 5.2)
• Reverse a Route
Any changes made to the route affect only the current route, so the route
must be saved in order to keep the changes.
Inserting/Deleting Waypoints in a Route
➤ To add waypoint(s) to the end of a route:
Note: If no current route is displayed, select a route from the Route List
and use the SHOW ROUTE function to make it active, see Retrieving a
route from the database.
1. Select ROUTES then EDIT ROUTE and press ENTER; the PLACE WAY-
POINT function is displayed.
2. Add waypoint(s) to the route by moving the cursor and pressing
ENTER in the same way as the route was first created.
3. Remove waypoints from a route by pressing CLEAR in the same way
as the route was first created.
4. When your changes are complete, press and release the GOTO/MOB
key to end route editing.
5. Press CLEAR twice to return to chart mode.
Note: When deleting waypoints, if the route has not been saved, the waypoint is erased. If the route has been saved, the waypoint remains on the
screen.
➤ To insert a waypoint into a route:
1. Move the cursor over the route leg where a waypoint is to be inserted.
The route leg data is shown in the status bar and the ROUTE OPTIONS
function, with help text, is displayed:
64 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
2. Press ENTER; the Route Leg functions are displayed:
3. Select INSERT WAYPOINT.
The cursor now controls the route leg which is connected to the existing waypoints on either side of the cursor by a dotted line.
4. Using the trackpad, move the cursor to the desired position and press
ENTER to place the new waypoint and return to normal cursor opera-
tion or CLEAR to cancel the operation.
Note: If you move the cursor over an existing waypoint, the option to use
this waypoint appears.
5. Press CLEAR again to remove the function bar and route leg data.
The waypoints in the current route are re-numbered to identify the
new positions.
Note: If you already have 50 waypoints in your route the system will not
allow you to add any more and a warning message will be displayed.
➤ To remove a waypoint from the route using the cursor:
1. Place the cursor over the waypoint.
2. Select WAYPOINT OPTIONS; the Waypoint functions are displayed.
3. Select REMOVE WAYPOINT; the waypoint is removed from the route
and the remaining waypoints in the current route are renumbered
accordingly.
Note: The waypoint is erased if the route is not saved but remains on
screen if the route is saved.
Chapter 5: Operation 65
5.4 Following Routes and Going to Target Points
The GOTO/MOB key accesses the functions to follow a route or go to a
waypoint, port, nearest facility or current cursor position. When the target
destination is selected, the chartplotter calculates bearing, distance and
cross track error; this information can be repeated on other
instrumentation and passed to an autopilot via NMEA. Cross Track Error
(XTE) can be reset to zero from the actual vessel position.
When the chartplotter is following a route, the target destination is
indicated by a square around the waypoint (or cursor marker) and a dotted
line shows the intended track, from the start point or previous waypoint,
to the target waypoint.
This section explains how to perform the following tasks:
• Follow a route
• Reverse a route
• Target Point Arrival
• Altering the route, including joining at a selected waypoint, advanc-
ing waypoints and restarting XTE
• Go to an individual point, either an existing waypoint or the cursor
• Go to the nearest facility or a selected port
• Stop and Restart Follow/Goto
An alarm is triggered when approaching a waypoint. Chapter 4 describes
how to set the alarm.
➤ To access the follow and GoTo functions:
1. Press and release GOTO/MOB to display the first level GoTo func-
tions:
GOTO
CURSOR
GOTO
WAYPOINT
2. Select MORE to display the second level GoTo functions
GOTO
PORT
GOTO
NEAREST
3. Select MORE to return to the first level functions.
4. Press CLEAR to return to the chart screen.
Note: The functions differ if a FOLLOW or GOTO is already in progress
(see Stop Follow or Stop GoTo on page 72).
FOLLOW
ROUTE
MORE¬
MORE¬
D6239-1
D6240-1
66 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Follow a Route
Note: If a route has been reversed or if a route on screen was being followed, but stopped before completion, the target waypoint (outlined by a
square box) may be different to when the route was created. The target
waypoint should always be checked before initiating a FOLLOW ROUTE.
➤ To follow the current route:
1. Press and release the GOTO/MOB key. The GoTo/Follow functions
are displayed. Alternatively, place the cursor over a route leg until the
Route functions are displayed.
2. Select FOLLOW ROUTE.
The vessel’s current position becomes the origin and the first waypoint in
the current route becomes the target waypoint. A dotted line connects the
vessel’s current position to the target waypoint. This line remains fixed
on screen as the vessel moves. The function bar is removed.
Reverse a Route
This option enables a return route to be generated from an existing route
which is then followed in reverse order, with waypoints renumbered
accordingly.
➤ To reverse the current route:
From the normal chart display:
1. Press ENTER to display the primary function bar, then select ROUTES,
followed by MORE, then REVERSE ROUTE.
—or—
2. Move the cursor over a route leg until the ROUTE OPTIONS function is
displayed. Press ENTER to display the options and select REVERSE
ROUTE.
The current route is reversed on the screen and the waypoints are
renumbered.
➤ To follow the reversed route:
1. Press and release the GOTO/MOB key. The GoTo/Follow functions
are displayed.
2. Press FOLLOW ROUTE.
The vessel’s current position becomes the origin and the first waypoint in
the reversed route becomes the target waypoint. The function bar is
removed.
Chapter 5: Operation 67
Target Point Arrival
Target alarms (see Chapter 5) can be set up to trigger when the vessel is
approaching the target point. The arrival alarm is defined as a circle (not
visible on the screen), with a specified radius around the target.
The alarm is triggered when either of the following conditions is met:
• The distance to the target point is less than that specified for the
Arrival alarm.
• The vessel reaches the closest point of approach to the target (it
crosses a line passing through the waypoint and perpendicular to the
track).
➤ Once the alarm is triggered, the vessel goes towards the next waypoint in
the route. Press any key to cancel the arrival alarm.
The target becomes the origin, the next waypoint becomes the target
point and the two are connected by a dotted line indicating the current leg.
If the target waypoint was the subject of a GoTo, or was the last waypoint
in a route, the pop-up alarm is cleared.
Alter a Route
A route can be followed from a selected waypoint (Join a route) or, if
already following, advanced to the next waypoint. Also the XTE can be
restarted, setting the current vessel position as the new origin.
In addition, a selected waypoint can be moved as described in
Section 5.2, or removed from the route as described in Section 5.3.
Join a Route
➤ To start following the current route from a selected waypoint:
1. Move the cursor over a route waypoint until the WAYPOINT OPTIONS
function is displayed.
D4718-1
2. Press ENTER and select FOLLOW FROM HERE.
68 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
FOLLOW
FROM HERE
EDIT
WAYPOINT
REMOVE
WAYPOINT
MOVE
WAYPOINT
D4687_1
The vessel follows the route, using the selected waypoint as the target.
Advance to a Waypoint
When following a route it is possible to advance to the next waypoint,
even if the current target waypoint has not been reached.
➤ To advance to a waypoint:
1. Press and release the GOTO/MOB key to display the GoTo/Follow
functions:
STOP
FOLLOW
2. Select WAYPOINT ADVANCE. The current leg of the route is aban-
doned and the next waypoint becomes the target. The display is
updated to show the new route leg.
RESTART
XTE
WAYPOINT
ADVANCE
D4688_1
Restart Cross Track Error (XTE)
Restart XTE is useful if you find yourself off track and prefer to go
directly to your target, rather than get back onto the original track.
While following a route, or going to a target point, you can restart the
XTE. This sets the XTE to zero and moves the origin to the vessel’s actual
position.
CAUTION:
Care must be taken when restarting XTE that your new track does
not take the vessel into a dangerous situation.
➤ To restart XTE:
1. Press and release the GOTO/MOB key.
If following a route, the following functions are displayed.
STOP
FOLLOW
If a GoTo is in progress, the following functions are displayed:
RESTART
XTE
WAYPOINT
ADVANCE
D4688_1
Chapter 5: Operation 69
STOP
GOTO
RESTART
XTE
2. Select RESTART XTE. The dotted line between the original origin and
the target waypoint is redrawn from the vessel’s current position to
the target waypoint and the XTE is reset to zero
Going to an Individual Target
Rather than following a route, you can go directly to a selected target.
This can be an existing waypoint, a port or nearest facility or the current
cursor position.
Go to a Waypoint
To navigate directly to an existing waypoint:
1. From the normal chart display:
i. Use the trackpad to position the cursor over the desired waypoint
until the waypoint options function is displayed:
...then press ENTER to display the waypoint functions:
D4689_1
D4718-1
—or—
ii. Press and release the GOTO/MOB key to display the waypoint
options and select GOTO WAYPOINT; the waypoint list appears. Use
the cursor to select the desired waypoint:
D4672-1
70 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
SIM NU
D4991-3
Figure 5-4: Waypoint List
A waypoint also can be selected from the Waypoint List as described
in Working with Waypoints on page 47.
2. Select GOTO WAYPOINT.
A dotted line is drawn from the vessel’s current position to the
selected waypoint and navigation to the selected waypoint begins.
Go to Cursor
Note: If navigation is currently in progress or if the cursor is homed
(Find Ship) it is not possible to go to cursor.
➤ To navigate directly to the current cursor position:
1. Press and release the GOTO/MOB key and select GOTO CURSOR. The
GOTO CURSOR function now has help text appended to it:
GOTO
CURSOR
2. Use the trackpad to position the cursor as desired.
3. Press ENTER to start the GOTO, or CLEAR to cancel the operation.
MOVE CURSOR, "ENTER" TO START
GOTO CURSOR, "CLEAR" TO QUIT
D4691_1
Chapter 5: Operation 71
A temporary waypoint is placed at the cursor position and navigation
proceeds towards it. The temporary waypoint is shown as a square with a
dot in the center and is connected to the vessel’s starting position by a
dotted line.
On arrival, the arrival alarm is triggered and the arrival pop-up box is
displayed. The dotted line is removed but the temporary waypoint
remains on screen until another GOTO or FOLLOW operation is started, or
the waypoint is removed.
Note: The temporary waypoint is not added to the waypoint list. If the
GoTo is stopped prior to completion or the temporary waypoint is
erased.
Go to a Port
You can navigate directly to the nearest port or to a selected port or
facility.
➤ To navigate directly to selected port:
1. Press and release the GOTO/MOB key, select MORE, and then GOTO
PORT to display the Port List.
2. Use trackpad up/down to select the desired port and press ENTER to
start the GoTo, or CLEAR to cancel the operation.
A dotted line is drawn between the current vessel position and the target
waypoint which is placed at the port. The line remains fixed on the screen
as the vessel moves.
Bearing, Range and Cross Track Error are calculated for the target
waypoint in the same manner as for any other GoTo or Follow function.
On arrival, the arrival alarm is triggered and the arrival pop-up box is
displayed.
➤ To navigate directly to the nearest port or facility:
1. Press and release the GOTO/MOB key and select MORE and then
GOTO NEAREST to display the list.
The list shows the eight nearest places where the selected facility
exists, in order of distance. The bearing and range (in selected units)
for each one is shown.
2. Use trackpad up/down to select the desired destination and press
ENTER to start the GoTo, or CLEAR to cancel the operation.
The operation is conducted in the same manner as for GOTO PORT above.
72 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
689
Stop Follow or Stop GoTo
➤ To stop following the route or target point:
1. Either press and release the GOTO/MOB key or move the cursor over
the target waypoint.
2. Select the STOP GOTO or STOP FOLLOW function:
STOP
GOTO
STOP
FOLLOW
RESTART
XTE
RESTART
XTE
WAYPOINT
The dotted line from the vessel to the target waypoint disappears.
5.5 Changing the Display Mode
Use the PAGE key to select the desired display mode. Repeat presses of
the PAGE key provide the following display modes:
• Set Up functions (see Chapter 4)
• Course Deviation Indicator (CDI)
• Bearing & Distance Indication (BDI)
• Waypoint data
• Navigation data
• Time/Date data
• Return to Chart display
Note: Press and release the GOTO/MOB key in any display mode to re-
turn to normal Chart display.
➤ To change the display mode:
ADVANCE
D4
D4688_1
1
1. Press the PAGE key to show the SET UP functions with SYSTEM SET UP
highlighted:
SYSTEM
SETUP
CHART
SETUP
TRACK
SETUP
GPS
SETUP
D4699_1
2. Repeat Step 1 to cycle through each of the available display modes.
Chapter 5: Operation 73
Note: The Set Up Function Bar remains displayed in each display mode.
To remove the Set Up Function Bar, press CLEAR.
CDI Display
The CDI display shows Cross Track Error (XTE) and distance to
waypoint presented in a “runway” format:
D6241-1
Figure 5-5: CDI Display
The runway represents a 0.3nm width with the vessel symbol shown on
the center line when the vessel is on course. Cross Track Error (XTE),
Bearing to Waypoint, Distance to Waypoint, Time to Go (TTG), Course
Over Ground (COG) and Speed Over Ground (SOG) are also shown.
Time to Go is calculated on the basis of distance to destination and Speed
Over Ground (SOG) towards the destination.
At waypoint ranges greater than 4nm, the symbol remains at the top of
the screen. As the waypoint range falls below 4nm, the symbol moves
down the center line.
The checkered pattern moves down the screen to simulate movement
when SOG is greater than 2 knots.
74 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
The steering instruction is STEER STARBOARD if the XTE is 0.01nm or
more to port, STEER PORT if the XTE is 0.01nm or more to starboard or ON
COURSE if the XTE is less than 0.01 on either side. If no GoTo or Follow
is in progress, the steering instruction is NOT TRACKING.
The graphical XTE indication places arrows either side of the steering
instruction and pointing towards it, dependent on the value of XTE.
The first arrow is shown when the XTE reaches 0.01nm, the second
at.05nm and subsequently at 0.1nm intervals.
BDI Display
STEER PORT
76
D6242-2
Figure 5-6: BDI Display
The BDI display shows deviation from the bearing to waypoint and
distance to waypoint. Cross track Error, Bearing to Waypoint, Distance to
Waypoint, Time to Go, COG and SOG are also shown. Time To Go is
calculated on the basis of distance to destination and velocity made good
towards destination.
The line to the waypoint symbol is shown at an angle equal to the
difference between the COG and the Bearing to Waypoint.
Chapter 5: Operation 75
The range scale automatically scales for distance. The ranges shown are
1nm, 4nm, 20nm, 40nm, 100nm, 200nm, 400nm, 1000nm, 2000nm,
4000nm. In each case the range scale has graduations at ¼, ½ and ¾ of the
current scale.
The steering instruction for the BDI display uses the deviation from
vessel bearing to waypoint bearing to instruct you to turn the vessel
towards the target waypoint. This is different from the steering
instructions in all other display modes, which use the XTE to assist you in
steering the vessel back towards the rhumbline between origin and
destination.
The steering instruction is STEER PORT if the waypoint line is 1° or more
to port, STEER STARBOARD if the waypoint line is 1° or more to starbo ard
or ON COURSE if the waypoint line is dead ahead. If no GoTo or Follow is
in progress, the steering instruction is NOT TRACKING, no steering arrows
are shown, but the rhumb line indicator is shown.
The graphical steering indication will place arrows either side of the
steering instruction and pointing towards it dependent on the difference
between COG and bearing to Waypoint. The first arrow is shown when
the difference reaches 5° and thereafter at 5° intervals.
76 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Waypoint Data
The Waypoint Data display comprises text data occupying the whole
screen.
ROUTE
"CURRENT"
WAYPOINT 01
"HILLHEAD"
BRG 313° T
RNG 3.76 nm
COG 313°T TIME 02:15 10/07/04
SOG 5.0 Kts TTG 00:47
XTE 0.02nm ETA 03:02 10/07/04
STEER STARBOARD
> l
D6243-2
Figure 5-7: Waypoint Data
If a route is not selected, the ROUTE field displays NO ROUTE.
The WAYPOINT field shows the name of the waypoint. If the waypoint is
part of a route then the title field includes the waypoint index in the route.
If there is no target waypoint the text indicates NO WAYPOINT and all
waypoint data is shown as dashes, one per character. If a route is being
followed and the waypoint is not named, the text shows the waypoint
number within the route (as displayed on screen). If a GOTO Cursor or
Port is in progress, the text indicates GOTO CURSOR or GOTO <
Name
>.
BRG, RNG and XTE data relate to the target waypoint.
Time refers to time data which is acquired from GPS information. Any
local time offset is set in the System Set Up menu, see Chapter 4.
The Time To Go (TTG) and Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) data relate
to the target waypoint (not the whole route) and are based on the Speed
Port
Chapter 5: Operation 77
Over Ground (SOG) towards the target. If the VMG is negative, or data is
not available, these fields are replaced by dashes, one per character.
The steering instruction is STEER STARBOARD if the XTE is 0.01nm or
more to port, STEER PORT if the XTE is 0.01nm or more to starboard or ON
COURSE if XTE is less than 0.01 on either side.
If no GoTo or Follow is in progress, the steering instruction is NOT
TRACKING, no steering arrows are shown, but the rhumb line indicator is
shown.
The graphical XTE indication places arrows either side of the rhumb line
indicator and pointing towards it, dependent on the value of XTE. The
first arrow is shown when the XTE reaches 0.01nm, the second at.05nm
and subsequently at 0.1nm intervals.
Note: The steering instruction and graphical XTE indication are repeated on all text-only displays.
78 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Navigation Data
The Navigation Data display comprises text data occupying the whole
screen:
Textual data provides Position, SOG, COG, Bearing and Range to
waypoint, Time, Fix status and the XTE indicator. Any unavailable data
is replaced by dashes, one per character. When there is no GPS fix but
there is a value for the last fix, this is shown instead; POSITION is replaced
with LAST POSITION.
The (c) indicator only appears when the position has been user calibrated.
The Fix indicator shows the GPS Fix status and indicates either FIX OK,
SD FIX or NO FIX.
POSITION
50°46.338'N
1°10.391'W
COG 313° T
SOG 5.0 Kts
WAYPOINT "HILLHEAD"
BRG 313°T GPS FIX OK
RNG 3.74nm TIME 02:15 10/07/04
STEER STARBOARD
> l
D6244-2
Figure 5-8: Navigation Data
Note: Graphical XTE indicator is as per Waypoint Data on page 76.
Chapter 5: Operation 79
Time/Date Data
The Time/Date display comprises text data occupying the whole screen:
Textual data provides Sunrise and Sunset time, Current Time/ Date,
Waypoint and Route arrival times plus the XTE indicator.
Sunrise and Sunset times are for the selected day and at the selected
position. The TODAY indicator emphasizes that the sunrise and sunset
times relate to the current day. If another day is selected, the TODAY text is
replaced with ON XX/XX/XX where XX/XX/XX is the selected date in the
current format.
When the Time/Date screen is first opened, the data relates to the current
day, unless there is no date information available. In this case dashes are
displayed. The vessel’s current position is used unless there is no GPS fix
in which case the cursor position is used and shown as a USER SELECTED
position.
The position data can be either as selected by you, in which case the text
relating to the position is USER SELECTED, or the current position in which
case the text is VESSEL.
SUNRISE 05:05
SUNSET 21:14 TODAY
AT POSITION (VESSEL)
50° 46.349'N
001° 10.411'W
TIME 02:18
DATE 10/07/04
ETA (WAYPOINT) 03:03 10/07/04
TTG (WAYPOINT) 00:44
ETA (ROUTE) 03:44 10/07/04
TTG (ROUTE) 01:25
STEER STARBOARD
> l
D6245-2
Figure 5-9: Time/Date Data
The (c) indicator only appears when the position has been user calibrated.
80 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
The Time and Date fields show the local current time and date.
The TTG and ETA (WAYPOINT) data relates to the target waypoint. The TTG
and ETA (ROUTE) data relates to the end of the route.
All data is based on the SOG towards the current target. If the SOG is
negative, or data is not available, these fields are replaced with dashes,
one per character.
➤ To display Sunrise/Sunset information for a different date:
1. If the Set Up functions are displayed, press CLEAR to remove them;
press ENTER to display the position functions.
SET
POSITION
PREVIOUS
DAY
TODAY
NEXT
DAY
D4992-1
2. Select PREVIOUS DAY or NEXT DAY as desired to display Sunrise/Sun-
set information for a particular date.
3. Select TODAY to return the display to current date.
➤ To set the position data manually:
1. Display the Position functions as described for Sunrise/Sunset display above.
2. Select SET POSITION.
3. Select VESSEL POSITION, which sets the position to the current position of the vessel.
—or—
Select SELECT POSITION, which enables specific Latitude/Longitude
data to be entered.
Use cursor left/right to select individual characters to edit.
Use cursor up/down to select the desired character.
4. Press ENTER to complete, or CLEAR to abort, the change(s).
Chapter 5: Operation 81
5.6 Transferring Waypoints and Routes
There are two methods of transferring waypoints and routes. The first is
via the NMEA interface and the seconds is via the Gold Chart card. The
transferring to and from the Gold Chart card is described in the Using
Archives section on page 87.
Displayed Waypoints
Waypoints and routes can be received and transmitted via NMEA. The
NMEA link could be to a PC, typically via a spare RS232 COM port.
Managing Database Lists
The SEND WAYPOINTS function sends all waypoints in the Waypoint List
and all routes in the Route List. Sending the Waypoint List does not affect
current routes.
Note: Sending the Waypoint List includes waypoints in an unsaved route.
The RECEIVE WAYPOINTS function adds waypoints and routes received
via NMEA to the Waypoint List and Route List.
Note: Where multiple waypoints have the same position, the last waypoint sent is the only one included in the Waypoint List.
➤ To send waypoints (and route lists):
1. In chart mode, press ENTER; the primary function bar is displayed:
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
MORE¬
D6233-1
2. Using trackpad left/right, select WAYPOINTS.
PLACE WPT
AT CURSOR
PLACE WPT
AT VESSEL
PLACE WPT
AT POS
WAYPOINT
LIST
D6236-1
3. Select WAYPOINT LIST.
The Waypoint List is displayed, with its associated function bar:
82 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
D4692-1
4. Initiate receiving of waypoints on the NMEA compatible equipment.
5. Select WPT/ROUTE TRANSFER.
The waypoint transfer functions are displayed:
D4693-1
6. Select SEND WAYPOINTS and press ENTER; the text changes to
STOP SENDING.
7. To stop waypoint transfer, press ENTER.
➤ To receive waypoints and route lists:
1. Display the Waypoint List as previously described, then select WPT/
ROUTE TRANSFER.
2. Select RECEIVE WAYPOINTS and press ENTER; the text changes to
STOP RECEIVING and remains selected.
3. Initiate sending waypoints on the NMEA compatible equipment.
4. To stop waypoint transfer, press ENTER.
Note: If either the Waypoint List or Route List becomes full, a warning is
displayed and the operation is terminated.
Chapter 5: Operation 83
5.7 Using Tracks
The TRACK function is used to mark an on-screen trail that the vessel has
followed, as if it had left a visible fixed wake.
While the track is turned on, it is recorded in the display unit’s memory.
You specify the interval at which track points are made and a line is drawn
on-screen between each point. Up to 1000 track points can be saved.
The track remains on-screen, even following a Power off/on, until the
track is cleared.
Using the SmartRoute function, a track can also be converted to and
saved as a route which is automatically reversed, ready for use as a return
voyage.
This section describes how to:
• Set up a track and specify the interval between track points
• Clear the current track
• Convert the track to a route (SmartRoute)
➤ To access the track controls:
1. Press the PAGE key to display the chart set up function bar:
2. Select TRACK SET UP to display the Track function bar:
TRACK
ENABLE
The following instructions assume that the track functions are displayed.
Setting up a Track
Use the track functions to switch the track on and to specify the interval at
which track points are placed. The time interval between track points can
be set to 1s, 10s, 30s, 1min, 10min or 30min. The distance spacing
between track points can be set to 0.05nm, 0.1nm, 0.5nm or 1nm. The
maximum track length is 1000 points. When this limit has been reached,
track points continue to be placed, but the oldest points start to be deleted.
CLEAR
TRACK
MAKE INTO
ROUTE
D4694_1
INTERVAL
10S
D4695-2
84 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
Track points continue to be placed until the track is switched off. The
current track is retained even when the unit is powered off.
Setting a short time interval between track points is best suited to
navigation within a close or complex environment such as an estuary or
marina, whereas a greater distance interval is best suited to a long voyage.
When complete, a track can be converted to and saved as a route
(SmartRoute).
Refer to the track interval setting guide below to determine the best
setting for your planned voyage; this is particularly important if you wish
to use SmartRoute to convert the track to a route.
.
1 s
10 s
33 min
5 hrs, 30 min
30 s
1 min
10 min
30 min
0.05 nm
0.1 nm
TRACK INTERVAL SETTING
0.5 nm
1.0 nm
16 hrs, 40 min
33 hrs, 20 min
13 days, 21 hrs, 20 min
41 days, 16 hrs
TRACK TIME
100 nm
200 nm
1000 nm
2000 nm
TRACK DISTANCE
Figure 5-10: Track Interval Setting Guide
➤ To set up a track:
1. Select the INTERVAL function.
Use trackpad up/down to select the appropriate options to set either a
time interval or a distance interval; press up to increase the interval or
down to decrease the interval.
D4971_1
Chapter 5: Operation 85
2. Use trackpad left/right to select TRACK ENABLE and press ENTER.
The TRACK ENABLE text changes to indicate TRACK OFF.
The vessel’s track is displayed on-screen with a line joining the points at
the selected interval.
Clearing the Current Track
The current track can be cleared from the screen.
➤ To clear the current track:
1. Select CLEAR TRACK.
The current track is cleared from the screen and memory.
2. If no further track points are to be placed, select TRACK OFF and press
ENTER; the TRACK OFF text changes to indicate TRACK ENABLE.
SmartRoute
SmartRoute enables the latest track to be converted to a route.
➤ To convert a track to a route:
1. Select MAKE INTO ROUTE and press ENTER.
The current track is converted to a new route, with the most recently
placed track point as the start of the route. In other words, the track is
reversed.
If there is an unsaved current route on screen, the option to save the
route is given, see Section 5.3, Working with Routes.
2. Check the calculated route and that the route deviation from the original, given in the warning box, is within navigable limits.
86 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
5.8 Object Information
The OBJECT INFO function provides detailed information about objects
displayed on the chart.
➤ To display detailed object information:
1. Using the trackpad, place the cursor over the desired object.
2. In chart mode, press ENTER; the primary function bar is displayed:
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
MORE¬
D6233-1
3. Using trackpad left/right, select OBJECT INFO.
A list of cartography objects under the cursor is displayed.
4. Use the trackpad up/down to select the desired object and press
ENTER for detailed information.
5. Use the trackpad up/down and left/right to scroll through the detailed
information.
6. Press CLEAR three times to return to normal operation.
Note: For best results, use the OBJECT INFO function in a close range
chart view.
Chapter 5: Operation 87
5.9 Using Archives
The ARCHIVE function is used to save routes, tracks and waypoints to the
Gold Chart card. This is particularly useful if you use a lot of routes,
tracks or waypoints and do not wish to repeatedly re-enter these. Once
you have archived your data to the card, the copy on the chartplotter can
be deleted, thus freeing up memory.
Note: A typical 32Mb Gold Chart card will hold up to 500 waypoints or
20 routes, each with up to 50 waypoints. If the Gold Chart card also contains chart files then these values will be lower.
Archiving a Route
➤ To archive a route:
1. In chart mode, press ENTER; the primary function bar is displayed:
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
MORE¬
D6233-1
2. Using trackpad left/right, select ARCHIVES.
ARCHIVE
ROUTE
ARCHIVE
TRACK
ARCHIVE
WAYPOINT
MORE¬
D6254-1
3. Select ARCHIVE ROUTE. A list of routes currently loaded in the chart-
plotter is displayed. Use trackpad up/down to select the route you
wish to archive and press ENTER. To leave without archiving, press
CLEAR.
88 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
.
1 ROUTE-66
ARCHIVE
ROUTE
ARCHIVE
TRACK
ARCHIVE
WAYPOINT
MORE¬
D6256-1
Figure 5-11: Archiving a Route
4. You can now (if desired) change the name of the archived file. Use
trackpad left/right and up/down to change. Press ENTER when complete.
5. The route is now archived. Press CLEAR twice to return to normal
operation.
Note: Once archived, the route can be erased from the chartplotters
memory to free up space. See Erasing or (re)Naming a Route on page 61.
Chapter 5: Operation 89
Loading or Deleting an Archived Route
Using the ROUTE ARCH. LIST function, a previously archived route can be
loaded back into the chartplotters memory, renamed or deleted.
➤ To load, delete or rename a route from the archive:
1. In chart mode, press ENTER; the primary function bar is displayed:
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
MORE¬
D6233-1
2. Using trackpad left/right, select ARCHIVES.
ROUTE
ARCH.LIST
TRACK
ARCH.LIST
WAYPOINT
ARCH.LIST
MORE¬
D6255-1
3. Using trackpad left/right, select MORE... and then ROUTE ARCH. LIST.
.
ROUTE ARCHIVES
01 ROUTE001
LOAD
ROUTE
DELETE
ARCHIVE
Figure 5-12: Route Archive List
RENAME
ARCHIVE
D6260-1
90 RC400 GPS Chartplotter
4. A list of archived routes is displayed.
• To load a route from the archive:
Use trackpad up/down to select the route you wish to load and
press ENTER.
• To delete a route from the archive:
Use trackpad up/down to select the route you wish to delete, then
use the trackpad left/right to select DELETE ARCHIVE and press
ENTER.
• To rename a route in the archive:
Use trackpad up/down to select the route you wish to rename,
then use the trackpad left/right to select RENAME ARCHIVE and
press ENTER.
The first character of the selected route name will be highlighted.
Use the trackpad left/right to select the character and up/down to
change. When your changes are complete, press ENTER to save
or CLEAR to discard any changes.
Archiving a Track
➤ To archive a track:
1. In chart mode, press ENTER; the primary function bar is displayed:
FIND SHIP ROUTES
OBJECT
INFO
ARCHIVES
WAYPOINTS
MORE¬
MORE¬
D6233-1
2. Using trackpad left/right, select ARCHIVES.
ARCHIVE
ROUTE
ARCHIVE
TRACK
ARCHIVE
WAYPOINT
MORE¬
D6254-1
3. Select ARCHIVE TRACK. You can now (if desired) change the name of
the track to be archived. Use trackpad left/right and up/down to
change. Press ENTER when complete. To leave without archiving,
press CLEAR.
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