Next message: (no name): "Re: [world-cruising] Re: Chart Plotter"
On Fri, Feb 22, 2008 at 9:42 AM, Ron Chambers <> wrote:
> Yes, real-estate is at a premium. I have a companion way swing out that
> already has a backup depth-finder and CARD display. I am thinking about
> mounting the chartplotter on cabin top under the dodger. I would then take
> it in when not in use.
>
You can clear up some space by throwing the CARD display away...or better
yet, getting someone to buy it at a flea market. CARD works by notifying
you that someone in your vicinity has a radar on. In real life, you will
see one of two things:
- if you're in a coastal area with lots of traffic, every quadrant on the
CARD will be illuminated and beeping, because you'll be surrounded by radar
emissions.
- if you're offshore away from traffic, you'll get nothing, because ships
typically turn off their radars when clear of the coastline.
The CARD system depends upon the actions of others - turning on their radars
- to work. You do not want a system that depends upon the actions of
others, because those others will not behave the way you expect.
An AIS reader, linked to a radar display, will be far more useful, as it
will give you immediate readouts of any shipping in your area and whether or
not the ship will pass dangerously close. I believe AIS transponders are
required on all ships now.
--
Best,
Bryan Genez
"Capella" V40-158
New Bern, NC
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