Simrad CP31 and the new C-Map Max cartridges

[jstr]

I am not happy with C-Map OR Simrad. Bought a Simrad CP31 at the Boat Show on the basis that it would work with the new C-Map Max cartridges they launched at the show. Even got my supplier to get a fax from Simrad to say they were compatible.

C-Map promised the product by February, and it was only available last week. When I ordered the product, I checked with C-Map that the cartridge WOULD be compatible with the CP31, before parting with money.

However, when plugging in, it appeared to work, but was so flakey, that when trying to zoom in on detail, it constantly re-booted the device!

Phoned C-Map who said that the CP31 needs a software update. Phoned my supplier, who knew nothing, but later confirmed this to be true, having spoken to Simrad. And the fix - (A)You have to bring the unit in. (B) Can't tell you when we can do this but it's "Imminent"!

I will be giving them until after Easter when I put my boat back in the water, and if not sorted, think I am entitled to my money back.

Has anyone out there got any more intelligence? If not be warned! They all make promises but aren't telling the truth about things working together.

 

[pvb]

Software update...

According to the C-Map website, plotters which are MAX-ready but need a software update to work properly with MAX charts can easily be updated.

C-Map say: "It is intended that the software updates will become available during February to perfectly coincide with the release of the MAX cartridges. The software is supplied on a special chart cartridge and updating is very easy; simply insert the software cartridge, turn the unit on and after about 45-60 seconds the chart plotter is updated and ready to use MAX."

If that's the case, you shouldn't need to take your plotter in.

 

[jstr]

But who provides this cartridge?

All sounds easy, but not what I was told.

C-Map told me I had to talk to Simrad, who told my supplier (Greenham Regis - since I figured they had a better line of comms) that the unit had to come in. I'll call Simrad direct in the morning, and see what they say.

 

[hightech]

Software is available!

Software is already available to get NT+ and NT Max cartridges working on CP31 products. Speak to Greenhams to have it upgraded. When produc was launched, the final spec of Max had not been completed and it therefore went with non-max sofware. The unit will need to be taken in to Greenhams or dropped into Simrad at Gosport, updating takes about 5 mins (at Simrad).

 

[malcolmbullock]

Re: But who provides this cartridge?

Perhaps it depends upon the plotter? I've received a couple of emails from c-map today confirming that my Standard Horizon plotter can be upgraded by inserting 2 chips. C-map will supply the chips FOC and provide an upgrade price to 'Max'. Given that I bought the plotter about 18mths ago from the US I am really pleased that it can be upgraded. If I had bought something recently that couldnt be upgraded then I would be unhappy about that. I dont think that C-maps statement that all/most plotters can be upgraded is true, at the boat show they said that the Standard was the only one that could be upgraded.

Cheers, Malc

 

[jstr]

Simrad have the solution

As promised, I spoke to Simrad today, who confirmed they knew of the problem, and say they have a software fix (since two days ago - so they said) BUT the only solution is to take the plotter to them - so I'm driving there in the morning!

At least it'll get done - I think the lesson is rather like Microsoft products wait until after Service Pack One, before you try anything new!

 

[JerryHawkins]

Simrad demo had problems!

Went to a "cruising seminar" at the RWYC on Saturday, during which a Simrad chap gave a talk on chart plotters, demoing (amongst others) a CX54 using a C-MAP MAX cartridge (orange in colour, not black). This machine obviously had not had the "software update" as it crashed when he tried zooming in too far!

So, it does sound like Simrad are cutting it very fine to say the least on getting their software to work with MAX charts. Hopefully you'll get sorted tomorrow. If you have any problems, ask to speak to Geoff Sargent - "after sales" manager. I've had several dealings with him before and he's always sorted me out.

Cheers,

Jerry

 

[jstr]

Simrad did the business

Well everyone, I had to drive there, but Simrad were very helpful, and fixed the CP31 on the spot whilst I was there.

Now I have the full C-Map cartridge, I can tell you that some of what was shown at the boat show is NOT there e.g. photos of harbour approaches - I am going to Bembridge in a couple of weeks, and immediately looked there to see pictures of the buoys - only to find an arial photo only.

I have to say that was one reason for choosing c-map - hmmmm....

Oh well, at least I can use the PBO website!!!