By Dan Fales
Even veteran navigators want more information when it comes to operating their GPS/chartplotter units. Whether you're a novice boater or a master helmsman, here are 10 tips you can use to improve the performance of your onboard electronics.
1. At times, there can be too much data presented on a smaller display. This often makes it difficult for the user to read the information, especially on a handheld screen that's only 3.5" or 6" along the diagonal. The display may contain everything from multiple depth soundings and wreck locations to port names, buoys and road maps. With so much data on the screen, you can't get a clear picture. To simplify the display, go to the setup page on the menu and click off those items you don't want. This is the true value of vector cartography, which "layers" this type of data.
2. Most of today's GPS receivers automatically default to the proper chart datum for North America, but some require you to select a particular scale. The standard is WGS 84. If your chartplotter does not show this specification, you may find that what you see on your paper chart doesn't line up with your electronic chart. Such errors could result in false latitude/longitude readings. For that reason, you should check the datum entry on the menu page.
3. One of the problems encountered by chartplotter users is screen washout or blackout. This often occurs when a set is subjected to direct sunlight for many hours or operated at sunset when the sun's angle plays directly on a screen under a Bimini or T-top. The fix is easy. Adjust the contrast and backlighting. If you're not sure how to adjust these controls, check the operator's manual to find out how they can be changed.
4. If you're like many boaters, you know how frustrating it can be to find the incorrect time and date on your GPS/chartplotter unit. Why does that happen? Local time is determined by the Universal Time Coordinate (UTC), which is sometimes called Greenwich or Zulu time. Eastern Standard Time, for example, is five hours behind UTC. Most plotters have a UTC offset control that establishes local time, but only when set, so be sure that function is set on your unit.
5. New users don't always understand the "simulator" control, which is found on most plotters. This is a valuable feature that lets you experiment with the equipment while you're reviewing the user's guide in your home. However, you must remember to deactivate the simulator when you're finished. Though most plotters will default to the "off" position, some models, such as those from Garmin, have a dealer demo feature that keeps the unit in simulator mode until it's physically deactivated. With the simulator off, you can take your boat out into familiar waters and actually try out all the features.
6. If you move your unit more than 200 miles, or if you are turning on the set for the first time, let it acquire all the satellites. This could take up to 15 minutes unless you actually input the new lat/long position. Handhelds usually need reorientation when moved a significant distance.
7. Handheld GPS/chartplotters are sensitive to the view of satellites above. If you put your handheld down, the internal antenna may not be able to "see" the satellites. When you pick it up again, check to confirm that it has locked on and is providing a valid fix.
8. External antennas should be located where they can get a clear view of the sky. They should not be positioned near radars, VHF radio antennas or other forms of onboard interference like TVs.
9. Be sure your electronic charts are up to date. This is especially true if you plan to cruise outside your local waters. All cartographic companies offer updates every six months, so be sure to take advantage of them.
10. Take advantage of equipment upgrades, such as free downloads, which make navigation easier. You can find information on upgrades on the Web site of your electronics manufacturer. You can go to the site for updates on recalls, too. If you own an Icom unit, you'll learn the company has issued a free upgrade for its GP 360 ML. Last year, all the GP 360s switched to the "search" mode and refused to provide a fix. Corrected firmware is now available.
Other New Electronics featured this month:
- More Electronics from past issues.
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