SAILBOAT TECH: Full Raymarine installation [Ryan's Tech Corner #14]

Ryan & Sophie Sailing
21 Dec 202118:38

TLDRIn this edition of Ryan's Tech Corner, Ryan discusses the full Raymarine electronics upgrade on his sailboat, Polar Seal. He explains the transition from the old CTalk1 system to the industry-standard NMEA 2000 and Raymarine's C-Talk NG. Ryan shares the excitement of installing new Axiom Plus and Pro chart plotters, i70 multi-function displays, and the Quantum 2 radar. The video highlights the benefits of the new system, including touchscreen interfaces, the ability to control various boat functions from a single display, and the integration with modern technologies like streaming services and drone control.

Takeaways

  • 🚢 The video discusses a full Raymarine electronics replacement on a sailboat, highlighting the technological advancements from 2007 to the present.
  • 📱 The old Raymarine system used a proprietary communication language called ctalk1, which has been replaced by the more universal NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 standards.
  • 🌐 NMEA 2000 is an industry-standard protocol that allows for easier integration of various marine equipment and their data display on different screens.
  • 🔌 The installation process requires understanding how the new equipment communicates, to ensure proper cabling and avoid a frustrating install.
  • 📱 Raymarine's new Axiom series features touchscreen chartplotters, with Axiom Pro including physical buttons for better control in challenging conditions.
  • 🔄 The i70s multi-function displays offer the ability to view various data points like wind speed, depth, and AIS on a single screen.
  • 🔌 For components transmitting large amounts of data, such as chart plotters and radar, a high-speed network switch and Ethernet cables are used.
  • 🛠️ The installation involves running new cables, replacing old equipment, and configuring the new system to work seamlessly.
  • 🔋 The new Raymarine system requires power and communication cables to function, with power supplied from the boat's 12-volt electric system.
  • 📱 The video also highlights the convenience of controlling the chart plotter and other functions from a smartphone or tablet, anywhere on the boat.
  • 🎮 The updated electronics offer advanced features like displaying the chart plotter on a TV and even controlling a drone from the chart plotter.

Q & A

  • What is the main topic of the video?

    -The main topic of the video is the replacement and installation of all Raymarine electronics on the boat Polar Seal, including the reasons for the upgrade and the process involved.

  • What was the narrator's initial impression of the new chart plotter in 2007?

    -The narrator was impressed with the new chart plotter in 2007, describing it as full color, responsive, and capable of overlaying radar with the chart plotter screen, comparing it to NASA technology.

  • Why was it necessary to understand how the equipment communicates with each other during the installation?

    -Understanding the communication between the equipment was crucial to ensure that all information, such as radar and wind data, would be properly displayed on the new chart plotter and multi-function displays. Without this understanding, the install could have been frustrating and difficult due to incompatible cabling.

  • What are the two communication standards mentioned in the script and what do they represent?

    -The two communication standards mentioned are NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000. NMEA 0183 is an older system used on many older marine electronics, while NMEA 2000 is a more evolved standard found on newer equipment, allowing for easier integration of devices from different manufacturers.

  • What is c-talk NG and how does it differ from the old c-talk1 system?

    -C-talk NG is a proprietary communication protocol and plug type used by Raymarine that is based on the NMEA 2000 standard but with a different plug type. It differs from the old c-talk1 system in that c-talk1 was a proprietary system used only by Raymarine, whereas c-talk NG allows for broader compatibility with the NMEA 2000 standard.

  • What are the main differences between the Axiom Plus and Axiom Pro chart plotters?

    -The main difference between the Axiom Plus and Axiom Pro chart plotters is that the Axiom Plus is a fully touch-screen display without physical buttons, while the Axiom Pro includes a set of buttons for use when wearing gloves or in wet conditions.

  • What is the purpose of the I-70s multi-function displays?

    -The I-70s multi-function displays allow for the display of various data points, such as wind speed, depth, and AIS information, all on one screen. This consolidates the information that was previously spread across multiple individual instruments into a single, integrated display.

  • How does the new Quantum 2 radar differ from the previous digital radar?

    -The new Quantum 2 radar is an upgrade that offers unique capabilities, uses less power, is lighter in weight, and provides a better performance compared to the previous digital radar.

  • What are some of the challenges faced during the installation process?

    -Some challenges faced during the installation include running new cables, dealing with the extra space left by the old chart plotters, converting analog signals to digital using the ITC 5 converter box, and running cables up the mast for the radar installation.

  • How does the new Raymarine system enhance the user experience?

    -The new Raymarine system enhances the user experience by providing faster and more intuitive touch-screen interfaces, the ability to customize the displays to show desired information, remote control capabilities from mobile devices, integration with other systems like the autopilot, and the ability to update all connected equipment from the chart plotter.

  • What additional features can be controlled from the chart plotter in the new system?

    -In addition to the expected marine navigation features, the new system allows control of the Fusion sound system, access to electrical information, and even the ability to display content from Netflix and Spotify, and control a drone, showcasing a high level of integration and functionality.

Outlines

00:00

🚀 Introduction to Electronics Upgrade

The video begins with an introduction to the upgrade of marine electronics, highlighting the transition from old Raymarine equipment to new, improved systems. The narrator expresses gratitude to Raymarine for the opportunity to upgrade and briefly reminisces about the excitement of the initial installation of the old chart plotter in 2007. The video then transitions into discussing the importance of understanding how new equipment communicates with each other, delving into the specifics of cabling and the shift from proprietary systems like ctalk1 to industry standards like NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000. The narrator also explains the adoption of the NMEA 2000 standard by Raymarine in their new c-talk ng system.

05:01

🔧 Installation of New Equipment and Cabling

This paragraph focuses on the detailed process of installing the new Raymarine Axiom Plus nine chart plotter and other components. It discusses the differences between the old and new systems, particularly the transition from physical buttons to a touch screen interface. The narrator outlines the components to be installed both inside and outside the boat, including the Axiom Pro and i70s multi-function displays. The explanation of the high-speed network switch and the importance of using Ethernet cables for devices that transmit large amounts of data is also covered. The paragraph emphasizes the excitement of the installation process and the anticipation of improved capabilities and efficiency with the new equipment.

10:01

🛠️ Challenges and Solutions in the Installation Process

The paragraph discusses the challenges faced during the installation process, particularly the need to run new cables and the differences in size between the old and new chart plotters. The use of an adapter plate to fill the gap is mentioned, as well as the integration of the new radar and the complexities of removing the old radar and installing the new one. The paragraph also highlights the innovative aspects of the new system, such as the ability to control the chart plotter from a phone or tablet and the potential to display the radar on a TV. The narrator expresses enthusiasm about the capabilities of the new system and the improvements it brings to their boating experience.

15:02

🎉 Finalizing the Upgrade and Exploring New Features

In the final paragraph, the narrator celebrates the completion of the electronics upgrade, expressing excitement about the new capabilities and features of the upgraded system. The ease of use, the ability to customize the display according to personal preferences, and the convenience of remote control from mobile devices are highlighted. The narrator also mentions the ability to update all connected equipment from the chart plotter, simplifying maintenance and ensuring that all devices are up-to-date. The video ends with a humorous and futuristic展望, imagining the possibilities of 2021, including the potential for controlling drones from the chart plotter and the integration of streaming services and cryptocurrency into the marine experience.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Raymarine

Raymarine is a brand of marine electronics that specializes in the production of navigation equipment such as chart plotters, radar systems, and other related devices. In the video, the narrator discusses the replacement of their old Raymarine electronics with newer models, highlighting the advancements in technology and the benefits these upgrades bring to their sailing experience.

💡C-Talk1 and C-Talk NG

C-Talk1 and C-Talk NG are communication protocols used by Raymarine devices. C-Talk1 is an older, proprietary system that was used in the narrator's previous equipment. C-Talk NG is an updated version that allows for easier integration with new devices and follows the industry-standard NMEA 2000 protocol. The transition from C-Talk1 to C-Talk NG is a significant part of the upgrade process discussed in the video.

💡NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000

NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 are standard communication protocols used in the marine industry for the exchange of data between different devices. NMEA 0183 is an older standard, while NMEA 2000 is a more recent one that offers improved performance and compatibility. The adoption of these standards allows for easier integration of equipment from different manufacturers.

💡Chart Plotter

A chart plotter is a device used in marine navigation that displays electronic charts and provides information such as the vessel's position, course, and speed. In the video, the narrator replaces their old chart plotter with a new Raymarine Axiom Plus nine, which features an all-touchscreen interface and improved capabilities.

💡Multi-Function Display (I-70s)

A multi-function display (MFD) is a versatile marine electronic device that can show a variety of data on a single screen, such as wind speed, depth, and AIS (Automatic Identification System) information. The I-70s mentioned in the video are Raymarine MFDs that provide the crew with comprehensive navigational data at a glance.

💡Ethernet

Ethernet is a type of networking technology that is commonly used for the transmission of data over local area networks (LANs). In the context of marine electronics, Ethernet cables are used to connect devices that transmit large amounts of data, such as chart plotters and radar systems, to ensure fast and reliable data transfer.

💡High-Speed Network Switch

A high-speed network switch is a device that manages the flow of data between multiple electronic devices within a network. In the marine context, it is used to connect equipment that requires fast data transfer, such as chart plotters and radar, using Ethernet cables. The switch ensures that data is transmitted efficiently and without interference.

💡Quantum 2 Radar

The Quantum 2 Radar is a marine radar system designed by Raymarine. It is noted for its advanced capabilities, energy efficiency, and lighter weight compared to previous models. The radar provides sailors with a detailed and reliable image of their surroundings, enhancing navigational safety and situational awareness.

💡Autopilot

An autopilot is a self-steering system for boats that automatically maintains a set course or heading. In the video, the narrator mentions the integration of their Raymarine Evolution autopilot system with the new electronics, which allows for improved control and monitoring of the boat's steering from various displays.

💡Integration

Integration in the context of marine electronics refers to the process of connecting and synchronizing different devices and systems to work together seamlessly. This allows for the sharing of data and control functions across the network, enhancing the user experience and the functionality of the equipment.

💡Upgrade

An upgrade in this context refers to the process of replacing older equipment with newer, more advanced models to improve performance, capabilities, and user experience. The video focuses on the narrator's experience upgrading their marine electronics to take advantage of the latest technology and features.

Highlights

Introduction to a full Raymarine electronics replacement project

The transition from old technology to new, like going from 2007 to modern systems

Explanation of the communication protocols used in marine electronics, such as NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000

The adoption of the industry-standard NMEA 2000 protocol by Raymarine with their own plug type, C-Talk NG

The excitement of installing a new Raymarine Axiom Plus nine-inch chart plotter with all touch screen interface

The benefits of the i70s multi-function displays that consolidate various data points onto one screen

The new high-speed switch for handling large data transmission between components

The integration of the new Quantum 2 radar which is more power-efficient and lighter

The detailed explanation of the wiring and cabling required for the new system

The process of replacing the old chart plotter and the challenges of fitting the new equipment

The use of the ITC 5 converter box to digitize analog sensor signals for the new system

The installation of the new radar and the complexities of running new cables up the mast

The completion of the electronics upgrade and the excitement of testing the new system

The advanced capabilities of the new system, such as controlling it from a phone or tablet

The ability to display the chart plotter on a TV and even control the autopilot from the same interface

The convenience of being able to update all connected equipment from the chart plotter

The humorous and futuristic mention of Elon Musk, Netflix, Spotify, and Bitcoin in the context of marine electronics