Here’s a nice bit of gear for all you technology-lovin’ sailors.

Longtime Navagear readers will be aware that I like to wave the flag a bit for the many maritime product manufacturers located in the greater Puget Sound/Salish Sea/Pacific Northwest region. This is one of them.

I spoke with Paul Comyns, Marketing Director for PYI Inc., which is headquartered right up the road from me in Lynnwood, Washington. He told me that the entire Seaview line, including the Sail Pods, are assembled right here in Washington state.

PYI also maintains an office in France, so the firm also distributes several lines of European products here in North America. All in all, there’s a lot going on in little old Lynnwood!

On with the press release…

Lynnwood, Wash. – Seaview, a leader in the design and manufacture of mounting solutions for marine electronics, announced today its new range of rail mounting solutions to complete its extensive pod line, Seaview Sail Pods by PYI. Designed to house and protect sailboat steering instrumentation while ensuring convenient viewing, the versatile new Sail Pods are available in four sizes to fit popular marine instrument displays, with faceplates that can be custom pre-cut to order. Developed to fit the majority of steering pedestals from Jefa, Whitlock and Edson, Seaview Sail Pods offer a clean, secure and professional design that seamlessly complements any sailing vessel.

Providing sailors with functional and efficient mounting for navigational instruments, Seaview Sail Pods are constructed using only high-quality marine-grade materials to maintain watertight integrity and shelter valuable electronics. Enclosed wire-runs protect cables and sockets from moisture and snagging, and all Seaview pods feature design elements to eliminate moisture build up. The pods also offer a unique, versatile rear-mount template that adapts to different installation requirements for both standard (12-inch and 9.5-inch) and non-standard guardrails.

“The Seaview Sail Pods provide convenient, secure instrument mounting that is perfect for the grab rails of a steering pedestal or any rail installation best suited for individual sailor’s needs,” said Paul Comyns, director of sales and marketing, PYI Inc. “The pods are a valuable addition to our versatile product line and highlight our continued commitment to bringing innovative new solutions to the boating community.”

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Just a quick note that I’m giving the new installation a sea trial for the next few days aboard Two Lucky Fish, and I’ll be posting general trip details on my Twitter account.

Yeah, the cabling is still kind of a mess, but it’s working!

“Everybody thinks they can avoid getting a multiplexer, and in the end they always get multiplexers.”
               —Brad Christian, Rose Point Navigation

Yeah, sure, whatever, Brad.

Longtime Navagear readers are aware that I have been avoiding multiplexers for more than three years (here’s the proof). I’ve had a good deal of success.

And also a good deal of…um…unsuccess.

Today I enjoyed a big success, though, completing and testing the installation of a new NoLand AM43 NMEA 0183 multiplexer. So it turns out Brad is right. Again. I’m getting kinda tired of that, Brad!

The guys at NoLand have been very helpful, answering over email some questions I had. The diagram above shows a typical installation, but mine was slightly different. I’ll share my schematic diagram here. The top is some general brainstorming. The bottom shows what’s actually connected to each terminal.

A careful look might reveal something odd: Why does the TLK/com pair connect right back to the unit through the IN1+/IN1-? If the data is already in the multiplexer, why feed it back?

Turns out the TLK port is the only “talker” carrying data received from the PC. I want that datastream aggregated into the primary OUTh port; that’s the one that goes to my Raymarine C-80 chartplotter.

And it works! If I select a waypoint in Rose Point Coastal Explorer and make it “active”, my C-80 asks if I want to engage the autopilot to navigate to that waypoint.

And for the first time, I’ve got AIS targets displaying on both the PC and the C-80. Oh, and I verified that DSC targets sent from the VHF appear on the C-80. I haven’t verified that they appear on the PC, but I expect they will.

It’s only day one, but so far I’m impressed that the NoLand AM43 does what it says it will.

If I had any suggestions for future products, it would be to include one more high-speed input. So there would be 2 high-speed inputs and 1 high-speed output. Why? In addition to the AIS, I want to plug the NMEA output from the C-80 into the multiplexer, to get all the data from the C-80 (autopilot, GPS, depth, speed, etc.) into the PC. That data doesn’t actually require a high-speed pipe, but on my C-80, I have to set a common data speed for both the input and output ports. I can’t set the input to 38,400 baud and the output to 4800 baud.

So right now, I’m still obliged to use a clunky workaround, pulling what data is available from the 4800-baud NMEA-out in my autopilot. That set of data is somewhat incomplete, and it’s a shame, especially since the NMEA out on the C-80 (configured at 38,400 baud so that the input can accept the AIS datastream) isn’t connected to anything right now! I guess I could run it into the PC through an unused USB port, but it seems a shame to run an extra wire for it.

Next time I actually take the boat out of her slip, I’ll put the whole kit and caboodle to the test. Stay tuned!

Boat Bits has this link to An interesting article about LED’s…:

Voiles et Voiliers, the French sailing magazine, really knows how to put sailboats and products through their paces (real tests with no concern about advertising revenue) and their recent testing of LED lighting is no exception…Check it out!

For those Boat Bits readers who don’t read French may I suggest you use Babel Fish…

Read more. And just to make sure Navagear is truly “adding value” on this repost, let me point out that if you don’t speak French, you should check out Foux Da Fa Fa by Flight of the Conchords.

Ben has this item at Panbo today:

I’ve just been cruising with four premium MFDs for two weeks, often using them seriously for four or five hours a day.  But that doesn’t mean I’ve learned every nuance of these complex beasts, or that I’ve developed strong preferences.  Actually I have (mostly minor) complaints about every one of them!…even if they’re all way better than the electronics I used around this coast 40, 30, 20, 10, even 5 years ago.  I’m going to start with something fairly simple…

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This is a very cool bit of news. Because why? Because it means that some of the best navigation suites on the market, which tend to be PC-based, might now make use of some of the best radar hardware on the market. On with the press release!

Marine Electronics Leader Introduces PC-Based FMCW Radar Technology for the Commercial, Marine, Military and Surveillance Markets

Nashua, N.H. – Simrad Yachting, a leader in the design and manufacture of world-class marine navigation, autopilots, communications and fishfinding systems, has announced today its BR24PC Software Development Kit (SDK) for the commercial, military, marine and surveillance markets. Giving developers access to the Simrad BR24 Broadband Radar™ opens a wide spectrum of applications for land and sea. Approved third parties can obtain a license to the BR24PC SDK and create PC-based software that utilizes Simrad Yachting’s award-winning Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) radome technology. Potential applications include on- and offshore security, unmanned vessels, military (stationary and moving), river navigation, boundary surveillance, fish-farm monitoring and oilrig ship-docking management. Providing the opportunity for a user-friendly, real-time, fully-automated and integrated PC-based radar system, the BR24PC SDK is compatible with any off-the-shelf Simrad BR24 Broadband Radar.

“The Simrad BR24PC Software Development Kit allows integration of our revolutionary radar technology to a nearly unlimited range of new possibilities in custom marine and on-shore applications,” said Louis Chemi, chief operating officer, Navico Americas. “Not only is the technology the future of navigation, security and surveillance, our BR24PC SDK makes commercial-grade radar available at a competitive price.”

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FORT LAUDERDALE, FL— With two levels of integrated signal technology—a powerful 406 MHZ signal and 121.5 MHz homing capacity plus the option to upgrade to GPS positioning with a cable interface— the new SATELLITE₃ 406™ introduced by Cobham Life Support-ACR Products offers a cost-effective, hard working EPIRB for users in both the commercial and recreational marine industries.

The SATELLITE₃ 406™ has received FCC, IC and MED approvals and is now available in the U.S., Canada and Europe.

Using the same reliable Search and Rescue satellite technology that has saved more than 27,000 lives worldwide since 1982, the SATELLITE₃ 406™ is a small and rugged lifesaver with over 53 years of ACR ingenuity and engineering built-in as standard features.

The ACR SATELLITE series has well served commercial mariners and recreational boaters for more than 17 years. The newest generation in this workhorse series of EPIRBs, the SATELLITE₃ 406™ utilizes a proprietary electronics package for faster, more stable 406 MHz emergency transmissions to low-earth orbiting LEOSAR satellites. In an emergency, the user’s registered, digitally coded distress message is broadcast via a powerful 6-watt, 406 MHz signal (SAR notification typically within one hour). An integrated 121.5 MHz homing signal then guides local Search and Rescue efforts.

As an option, SATELLITE₃ 406™ users can pinpoint their location within 100 meters and reduce SAR notification to fifteen minutes by purchasing a GPS interface cable, which can connect the SATELLITE₃ 406™ directly to the vessel’s GPS receiver to continuously update and store precise GPS data. As another option, SATELLITE₃ 406™ users can send non-emergency “I’m OK” messages through the beacon’s self-test protocol when they are subscribers to the new 406Link program offered to all owners of EPIRBs and PLBs.

Available in two categories, the SATELLITE₃ 406™ Cat. I EPIRB comes with the Sea Shelter₃™ bracket, which is fully enclosed and made of high density, UV-stabilized polyethylene for years of extreme abuse. The Cat. II EPIRB comes with a standard QuickDraw™ low profile bracket and is easy to install on a bulkhead.

The SATELLITE₃ 406™ is loaded with high efficiency electronics that offer reliable performance, responsiveness and accuracy. It carries Class II non-Hazmat batteries, which will allow the beacon to transmit for a minimum of 48 hours at -20ºC (-4ºF). The EPIRB weighs 1.3 lbs (586 g) measures 7.0 x 4.2 x 3.6” (17.7 x 10.7 x 9.1 cm)

An EPIRB is a satellite-signalling device of last resort, for use when all other means of self-rescue have been exhausted and where the situation is deemed to be grave and imminent, and the loss of life, limb, eyesight or valuable property will occur without assistance. All beacons must be registered online at www.beaconregistration.noaa.gov following purchase. There are no monthly service fees for 406 MHz beacons.

MSRP for the Category I SATELLITE₃ 406™ is $950 and $890 for the Category II. MSRP for the optional GPS interface cable is $125.

[It’s a press release, of course, but it only makes me lust for a FLIR thermal imaging camera of my own! —Tim]

Portland, OR – FLIR Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLIR) announced that recent tests to determine how well its thermal imaging cameras could see oil on water had outstanding results, and that FLIR maritime thermal imagers are providing valuable assistance to oil recovery crews working in the Gulf Oil Spill.

In early April of 2010, FLIR conducted a series of experiments at the OHMSETT oil recovery test facility in coastal New Jersey to determine if FLIR maritime thermal imagers see petrochemicals floating on seawater, and if so, which cameras do it the best.

In the experiment, FLIR tested a variety of thermal imagers, observing five different kinds of oil and diesel in a variety of sea states and from three different viewing angles, and under a variety of lighting conditions.

The Result:  FLIR maritime thermal longwave imaging cameras succeed at providing crisp, clear real-time video and photos of any temperature oil in all types of seas, in glaring sunlight, with no light at all, and from just about any angle.

FLIR thermal imagers can see oil on water extremely well—day or night, in all types of lighting conditions—because oil emits infrared energy quite differently from water, giving floating films a distinct appearance. In addition, infrared imaging requires no visible light to make a clear image and is not affected by reflections caused by wave action or solar interference.

Just a few weeks after this initial test,  FLIR’s M-Series and First Mate maritime imagers are currently proving their worth to oil containment and recovery crews in the recent Gulf oil spill,  providing valuable aid and assistance in this time of national emergency. You can see footage of our cameras at work at http://www.youtube.com/user/FLIRNightVision.

It’s a press release, naturally, but I was intrigued by the product, so I’m passing it along. I imagine these coming along with kayakers and other “micro-mariners”. Thoughts?

San Diego, Calif. – (May 25, 2010) – Grace Digital Inc, a leading brand of wireless indoor & outdoor audio solutions, is pleased to announce the Eco Extreme. Whether you’re climbing to the highest mountain peak, kicking back on the beach, or just backyard grilling, the Eco Extreme provides quality sound and rugged protection for your iPod, iPhone, most cell phones and MP3 players. Affordably priced at $49.99 and available now at GraceDigitalAudio.com, the Eco Extreme is a must have for all your summer fun.

As summer approaches and weekend activities move to the outdoors, Eco Extreme’s water, sand, and shock proof outer casing offers protection from all the outdoor elements. The Eco’s built-in 3” full range front firing speaker provides Grace Digital Audio’s signature high quality sound. Designed with a rubberized protective shell, Eco’s high impact shock proof exterior withstands drops, falls, and mishaps. Lightweight and portable, the Eco Extreme comes equipped with a 2” detachable carabiner, making it ideal to clip to a beach bag or backpack for easy transportation. “With the Eco Extreme you no longer have to sacrifice audio quality for portability and versatility,” says Grace Digital Audio’s Chief Marketing Officer, Greg Fadul. “While ideal for outdoor use, the Eco Extreme provides a surprising volume and bass for a device of its size, making it great for less adventurous indoor use as well.”

The Eco Extreme’s sand resistant and waterproof interior includes a mesh pocket that securely holds an MP3 player, cell phone, wallet, cash, keys, and/or small digital camera. The universal 3.5mm audio jack easily connects the speaker to iPhones, most cell phones, iPods and MP3 players. IPX7 approved (international weatherproofing standard), the Eco Extreme will safeguard personal items and small electronics during all your outdoor adventures.

Eco Extreme features include:
•    Waterproof and dirt resistant design protects your MP3 player from the outdoor elements
•    High impact shock proof casing withstands drops, falls and spills
•    Internal storage compartment holds keys, MP3 Player, credit cards, drivers license and cash, keeping it safe from sand, sun, and water
•    3.5mm audio jack works with any MP3 player, 3” full range forward firing speaker
•    Includes a 2” detachable carabiner clip, making it ideal for backpacking, biking, beach trips, and camping.
•    IPX7 Approved (International Weatherproofing Standard) will protect your valuables even if you submerse it in water, powered by 3 AA batteries which provide 30 hours of playing time at average volume levels
•    Available in 3 colors (jet black, cobalt blue, and orange peel)

To go to Grace’s Eco Extreme web site click here.

Check out this review over at MadMariner’s DIY Boat Owner:

Imagine your drop your phone, your iPod, your camera or some other precious electronic item into the drink. It shouldn’t be hard. Most of us have done it.

Your gadget is dead, right?

Well, maybe not. The folks who make the Bheestie Bag say that their product, a sealable foil-covered plastic bag filled with absorbent chemicals, can revive soggly electronics much of the time.

The bag has gained a lot of attention, with mentions in Businessweek and the Today Show, and the company invited us to test it. The ability to dry electronics would be useful on just about any boat, so we took up the challenge.

After subjecting an innocent Blackberry to some watery torment, we found that the bag shows promise. It is not a perfect solution—and it cannot bring back wet electronics all of the time—but it may still have a place on your boat.

Read more