Raymarine, Simrad, Lowrance, Maretron and others are already starting to adopt the system, which also allows much faster data transfer rates and a simple lopped cable run throughout a boat.

Most modern radars and radar plotter systems now incorporate an option for 'North Up' display presentation, MARPA (mid target tracking), and radar overlay onto the screen. However, in order to get the best from these functions, a very fast and very stable input of compass heading data is required.

In response to this, Marine Electronic Services Ltd has introduced the Maretron high speed SSC200 Compass Sensor which features both an NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 output for easy integration into existing systems. The SSC200 incorporates a solid state sensor and rate-gyro for extremely fast and stable compass heading information. Unlike traditional fluxgate compasses, the SSC200 is not affected by normal magnetic deviation errors. It also outputs data at 20Hz, allowing for a stable display even with the pitching and rolling motion of a small boat.

Boat builders interested in understanding the new data standards can access a short form booklet explaining the benefits of NMEA 2000 via www. mesltd. co. uk.