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Subject: TWL: Nobeltec news
From: Keith (klemmons@XXX.XXX)
Date: Tue Mar 04 2003 - 05:34:57 EST
I post this from Nobeltec's latest newsletter so everyone can see what
kind of computer power it will take to run their next upgrade. Seems
like I just got their last FREE upgrade, but they'll sell the 7.0
version. Based on what I've heard, I won't be in ANY rush to upgrade...
need to give them time to get the bugs out. I'm afraid these guys are
going to improve themselves out of the market, leaving a lot of space
open for simpler applications like Ozi, etc.
_________________________
Tips to Buying a Computer
Here are some helpful tips that we are happy to offer our customers
wishing to purchase a new computer system. Following these guidelines
will increase the likelihood that you will have a great Nobeltec
experience.
Nobeltec minimum system requirements: 800 MHz processor, 128MB of RAM.
Recommendations for Nobeltec 7.0: 1.2GHz processor, 512 MB of RAM or
higher.
If you plan on running 3D with your Nobeltec software, look for at least
256MB of computer RAM. Also, make sure your computer has a graphics card
with at least 64MB of RAM.
In general, higher speed processors and more RAM will improve the
responsiveness of the program, especially when running 3D and multiple
chart formats in separate windows. (Such as aerial photos, vector
charts, raster charts, etc.)
Currently, to operate International charts, a parallel port (25 pin) is
required to install the Dongle hardware attachment. In the near future,
Nobeltec will offer a USB Dongle alternative when Nobeltec Navigation
Software version 7.0 is released.
If you purchase a computer without a serial port, you'll need a USB -
Serial Port converter. We currently recommend the Keyspan converters.
These are available directly from Nobeltec for only $49.99. We also
offer USB - 4 Serial Port hubs for $399.99. These are helpful if you
plan on integrating multiple instruments into your computer.
If you plan on integrating Nobeltec radar, we recommend that you have
multiple USB ports on your PC. The Nobeltec radar connects directly
through the USB port on your computer. Additional USB ports can be used
to bring in GPS and Heading. We recommend purchasing a 4 port USB hub.
Consider a desktop computer with a flat-panel display and a wireless
mouse and keyboard as a permanent installation. (Nobeltec sells
Interlink-brand wireless mice and keyboards, as well as Opto-isolators
and other hardware accessories. Call today for products and prices.) You
can use a laptop as a backup for this configuration, or as the primary
computer for a more mobile configuration.
Although Nobeltec will work with almost any Windows-based computer, you
may want to consider purchasing a machine modified for the marine
environment. The following companies pre-install Nobeltec software and
charts and deliver the computer ready to go. Check out the following
manufacturers for ideas: www.argonautcomputer.com; www.bigbaytech.com;
www.nauticomp.com,
Nobeltec is a Panasonic Toughbook re-seller. If you are interested in
one of these rugged machines, please review Panasonic's website. Find
the model that you want, and call Nobeltec for pricing and availability.
www.panasonic.com/computer/notebook.
Remember, your Nobeltec software and US Passport charts can be installed
on three different machines, but only on one boat. International
Passport charts require a dongle, which connects to a 25-pin parallel
port. This means that International Passport charts can only be seen on
one machine at a time. (Click here for more information on dongles:
www.nobeltec.com/knowledgebase/kb20006.htm) (USB dongle available when
Nobeltec 7.0 ships)
At a minimum, you'll want a display that uses "Active Matrix"
technology. This technology helps the viewer to see the screen from a
smaller angle. You'll also want to pay attention to the screen
brightness so that it doesn't "wash out" easily under bright conditions.
The higher the "lumens" of the screen, the brighter the display.
Argonaut, Big Bay, Nauticomp, VEI, C-Nav and Navigator PC all make
high-bright displays that enable you to see the screen even under direct
sunlight. Some manufacturers even make "transflective" displays, which
convert sunlight into screen brightness.
Many boaters are taking advantage of the features available in today's
new computer screens. If you wish to view a TV picture on the screen or
integrate onboard camera images, be sure the screen supports these
options. Look for a screen with S Video for TV and RCA input for
Cameras. Also, check to see that your computer has the proper video card
to support these features.
We recommend that you install Nobeltec on a computer that is dedicated
to navigating. Keep the computer free of as many other programs as you
can in order to reduce the chances of software conflicts and to increase
the program's stability.
Nobeltec Navigation Software 7.0 Upgrade Soon
The all-new Nobeltec Navigation Software version 7.0 is more powerful
then ever! We've been working hard on some exciting, helpful and safety
oriented features for over a year. Many of the new features and
enhancements are because of recommendations from you - our loyal users.
Look for an email announcement and postcard in the coming weeks with
details on the Visual Navigation Suite 7.0 software. Current VNS 5.0 and
later users will upgrade for $199.99. VNS version 4.1 and later users,
along with ChartView and competitive product owners upgrade price will
be $349.99.
-- Keith __ Friends may come and go, but enemies accumulate. _______________________________________________ http://lists.samurai.com/mailman/listinfo/trawler-world-listTo Unsubscribe send email to trawler-world-list-request@XXX.XXX Include the word "Unsubscribe" (and nothing else) in the subject or body of the message.
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