Simrad CS68 Integrated ECDIS
Norwegian marine electronics company Simrad have launched a new fully IMO approved Integrated Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) navigation system. The CS68 Integrated ECDIS is designed for the commercial market and according to Simrad’s parent company, Navico, has been built to industry-leading standards of reliability, simplicity of installation and ease of operation.
Available in two screen sizes, the Simrad CS68 19-inch model has a 5:4 aspect ratio for streamlined retrofitting. The 24-inch model of the Simrad CS68 provides a 16:9 widescreen display sporting 1920×1080 pixel ‘Full-HD’ resolution and offers clear advantages in chart visibility and ease of use.
Pending regulatory approval, the Simrad AP80 autopilot system, when matched with the Simrad CS68 ECDIS, will offer TrackSteer – the ability to steer a vessel based on steering commands from the ECDIS. This unique TrackSteer capability enables the navigator to program a route and vessel deviation limits into the Simrad CS68 and the vessel will auto-steer based on turning parameters of the vessel. The ship’s sensors deliver a clear display of the vessel track and position plot on the screen of the Simrad CS68 ECDIS.
Installation is simplified as both 24V DC and 110-240V AC power supplies are built in, making these displays suitable for smaller DC-only vessels or larger mains-powered ships. Dual-station PLECDIS (Paperless ECDIS) is available with just a single cable to link two units with no extra hardware required. The fully integrated design comprises of the processor, networking and power supply in a single, compact package for minimal helm space usage. This powerful ECDIS system includes a keyboard and panel mount trackball to allow for simple and intuitive control. Existing Simrad CS-Series operators will find the new interface usefully familiar, allowing for an easy transition after upgrade.
By Jake Frith
