dsc ais vhf

[Boo2]

...I've asked some questions of Raymarine and may have to add a supplemental when they get back to me.

I've had a response from Raymarine and apparently it is true that :

1. The built in screen can't display AIS data
and
2. The connected MFD can't initiate a call through the VHF

This seems to me to be the worst of all possible worlds and completely rules it out of contention for me.

Boo2

 

[alteredoutlook]

The vhf's with integrated ais screens tend to have very small screens and can be a challenge for those with not so gifted eyesight. So consider outputting the ais to a chart plotter or other screen. I output mine to a windows laptop running OpenCpn which overlays the ais on to the chart plotter - brilliant!

I also output the ais data to my android tablet and to an android phone via an OTG cable and AISview app. This in its most basic form enlargens the screen shown on the vhf. i.e. I can see it!!!

 

[Boo2]

The vhf's with integrated ais screens tend to have very small screens and can be a challenge for those with not so gifted eyesight. So consider outputting the ais to a chart plotter or other screen. I output mine to a windows laptop running OpenCpn which overlays the ais on to the chart plotter - brilliant!

I also output the ais data to my android tablet and to an android phone via an OTG cable and AISview app. This in its most basic form enlargens the screen shown on the vhf. i.e. I can see it!!!

I agree completely with your point about displaying AIS on the MFD but ISTM that's not the only facility a person might expect from an AIS.

The ability to dial up an MMSI number direct from either the MFD or AIS/VHF display seems like a no-brainer to me in terms of utility when a fast-approaching ship threatens. But, as you say, displaying AIS info on the MFD is the prime requirement, it's just that all AIS equiped VHFs have that capability and disappointing that Raymarine's own offering doesn't afford better integration with their displays.

All IMHO, of course, and not wishing to seem like I'm Raymarine-bashing here...

Boo2

 

[prv]

not wishing to seem like I'm Raymarine-bashing here...

Well, you probably should in this case, that's rubbish design!

I suspect the reason is that it isn't really a Raymarine radio, that's not their area of expertise. It'll be some little-known third party's radio in a Raymarine box.

Pete