NavMonPC

NavMonPC is a Windows program for the capture, display, and playback of NMEA-0183 data. The user interface is optimized to run on a low-power, small-format “netbook” style of computer, but it will operate on any Windows-compatible machine. It is not intended to replace a chartplotter (NavMonPC does not display standard navigational charts) but instead, this program is designed to supplement your chartplotter and provides additional feature and convenient access to important navigational system data.

NavMonPC features include but not limited to:

• ·         Dial display of critical parameters and conditions
• ·         AIS (Automatic Identification System) decoding and target display, including flexible proximity and approach alarms
• ·         Enhanced AIS performance using RapidAIS
• ·         Anchor-watch alarm
• ·         Depth Alarms
• ·         Course, Heading, Speed, Wind alarms
• ·         Man Overboard alarm
• ·         Strip-chart style displays of course and speed, windspeed and direction, water depth and
• ·         temperature
• ·         Concise on-screen log display
• ·         Logging to file
• ·         Flexible filtering and routing of input data
• ·         Multiple RS-232 serial interfaces, and TCP/IP network interface
• ·         Multiple "Virtual serial port" outputs of bridged / routed data for use by other programs

Detailed user and installation guide can be downloaded here: http://www.navmonpc.com

Download latest version of NacMonPC here: http://www.navmonpc.com/downloads.html

On my own point of view, NavMonPC is best can be as supplement to your chartplotter onboard. The features that the basic user can be used are the GPS position, course, speed, AIS plotter, speed chart, log, log comment, MOB and virtual serial ports.

In order to use the operation of NacMonPC, take note of the COM ports used by the GPS and AIS connected on your PC or laptop. Set-up serial ports as per indicated in the user guide. It can also connect on any TCP/IP serial connection.

For me, the AIS plotter has been the most useful part of the program. It displays real time target information. Better than browsing thru a limited button features of AIS unit onboard. It triggers CPA alarm as per you setting. Alarms are a bit loud, especially on triggering the MOB.

Another cool feature of this program is the “Virtual serial port”. This virtual serial ports bridge the connected serial ports on the NavMonPC to be used for any other programs such as the chartplotters or ECDIS. It imitates the data collected from NavMonPC to your chartplotter. On the Transas NaviSailor program, NMEA sentences the for the AIS COM port are mix of GPS and AIS which for me is a good feature because it corrects any failed data from AIS unit such as position fixing.

NavMonPC is very useful for those who does not have chartplotter installed onboard. The AIS radar like display makes it easier to identify vessel fitted with AIS. There’s no more guessing or taking bearings and browsing on a limited button display of fitted AIS unit onboard.

Rating:***** (Excellent)