System requirements
- Computer: Any recent model laptop or desktop running Windows 2000 or newer operating system
- GPS Compatibility: Almost any GPS manufactured since 1993 should work with SOB. The GPS must be NMEA 0183 compatible. Some older models may require data interface boxes which may no longer be available. Any GPS manufactured within the 5-8 years should be compatible, but may require an manufacturer data cable. Modern USB or Bluetooth connected GPS units are suitable for use with the navigation program.
Additional Capabilities
Additional standard navigation instruments (NMEA-0183 compatible) are easily integrated:
Autopilot
With just a mouse click or two on the computer chart, the navigation program will control the ship's course by sending information to the autopilot, steering your vessel precisely to the route or destination waypoint as planned on the computer screen.
AIS Transponder/Receiver
Now mandatory on all large commercial and passenger ships, the Automatic Identification System uses VHF radio. The received AIS information can include: latitude/longitude, course, speed, ship size and type, destination and ETA Collision calculations are then displayed by the navigation program and dangerous targets identified and displayed.
Radar
Interfaced directly with the computer charts, allowing you to plot an ARPA target directly onto the the navigation program computer chart screen. The navigation program calculates the other vessel's course and speed and all CPA data(closest Point of Approach) and whether it poses a collision potential to your course. The navigation program will also redisplay the Radar's cursor and VRM/EBL positions for compatible devices.
Wind Indicators
Predominantly for sailors, quickly become an indispensable source of information when linked to the navigation program. The wind indicator and Anemometer provides the computer with Apparent Wind strength direction. The navigation program has multiple options for the display of the wind data, and also can automatically create Polar Data for graphics display and performance analysis.
