Spotlight Icom MarineCommander Multi-Function Display by Kevin Poulter

Icom’s MarineCommander offers more functionality in less space. System overview With the growing number of screens at the helm of vessels, Icom’s MarineCommander enables one screen to be used as a Multi-Function Display (MFD). This requires much less “real estate”, with the considerable advantage of having full control on one screen. Marine modules like Fish Finder, Marine Radar, AIS and VHF Transceiver can be integrated into the Multi-function Display (MFD). In some situations, it can be very useful to have more than one MFD, so two can be connected to a main processor (MPU), each with dual display operation. When a data cable is used to connect to the MarineCommander, the number of MFDs can be increased to four, all displaying the modules, (for example Fish Finder or Radar). Data from each Icom unit is fed through the NMEA 0183 signal line to the Main Processor Unit, MXP-5000. After processing, the signals are forwarded to the MFD for viewing.

When multiple MFDs are in a system, you can control from them individually, though it’s important to note one chart data per MarineCommander (MPU) is required. Icom’s system suits big boats as well, with powerful data on screen plus MFD’s can be installed up to 20 metres (66 feet) from their MPU. The MFD screens are rated to the high-level IPX7 water submersible level and connection to its processor is though a single cable.

GPS is supplied via the Icom MXG-5000 12-channel receiver, featuring WAAS, EGNOS and MSAS differential corrections. The receiver is enclosed in an IPX6 rated weather-resistant housing. Users can record or back-up Waypoints, track and route information through a USB flash drive, just below the main control knob on the MFD. This information can be imported to other MarineCommanders, or to a PC. Screen Data The MarineCommander has a graphical user interface, with intuitive operation. There a just a few buttons and main rotary knob. The display can be split into two to four views, simultaneously on the screen. The screen is LCD, just over 12 inches diagonally, with 800x600 pixels resolution. The brightness and anti-reflection glass make the screen perform better in sunlight than previous screens and there’s a selectable day and night mode.

AIS - Automatic Identification System Icom are well-known for their effective AIS systems. AIS is not unlike an aircraft ID, an automatic tracking system, identifying and locating vessels by electronically exchanging data with other nearby ships, AIS base stations, and satellites. AIS information supplements marine radar - the main aid to collision avoidance. Icom’s AIS receiver picks up real-time transmissions from vessels that use an AIS transponder. This information may include • Static Information — Vessel call sign, name, MMSI number, dimensions, type • Voyage-Related Information — Draft, cargo type, destination and estimated time of arrival • Dynamic Information — Time in universal time, coordinated, latitude/longitude position, course over ground, speed over ground, heading, rate of turn and navigational status. Vessels fitted with AIS transceivers and transponders can be tracked by AIS base stations located along coast lines or, when out of range of terrestrial networks, through a growing number of satellites that are fitted with special AIS receivers which are capable of deconflicting (reduce the risk of collision) for a large number of signatures. The optional MA-500TR or MXA-5000 enables the AIS data to be overlaid on the plotter and radar screen.

DSC Call (with AIS and VHF Transceiver) The MarineCommander has the capability to be connected to compatible Icon transceivers. Various types of DSC calls, including individual, group, all ship, position and polling request, can be initiated from the MarineCommander. Received DSC messages and position information can be shown on the plotter display.

Fish Finder When the MarineCommander is connected to a fish-finder module, it enables a dual-frequency system. The MarineCommander receives the 50kHz and 200kHz signals, enhancing them for best fish detection. Each frequency can also be viewed separately in split-screen mode. The MarineCommander can memorise waypoint information, plus depth and temperature data, so you can return to the exact spot for another successful catch.

Video Camera Monitoring and Display • Up to four video cameras can be connected to RCA video-in ports. This can enable safety and operational views, like surroundings (very useful for reversing) and crew. • An external display connector enables outputting to an analog RGB display. English, Spanish and French languages displayed. External Heading Sensor connection (NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000) • Memo function, to enable storing of a comment with picture data and position.

Marine Radar The MXR-5000R/T marine radar provides clear target discrimination. Waypoint and AIS target can be overlaid on the radar screen. Alternatively, radar images can be overlaid on the plotter screen. The marine radar helps collision avoidance, increasing safety at sea. Simplified ATA (Automatic Tracking Aid) The simplified ATA function allows plotting of up to ten targets, with the radar tracking the targets automatically. These ATA targets can be overlaid on the plotter screen.

C-MAP MAX Compatible The MarineCommander is compatible with C-MAP MAX chart by Jeppesen, in an SD card format. The MarineCommander provides fast rendering performance. The C-MAP MAX chart provides • guardian alarm • Route-check • Local image library • Perspective (bird) view and • Port database All designed for safe and easy navigation. Jeppesen C-MAP MAX is a third-party supplier.

Engine Monitor Display When connected to engine/environment/positioning sensors with an NMEA 2000 interface, the MarineCommander shows current data on a virtual engine meter, Data-bar and Status-bar, depending on your setting. What is NMEA 2000? It’s a plug-and-play communications “conduit” used for connecting marine sensors and display units within ships and boats. Signals run at 250 kilobits-per-second and any compatible sensor can talk to a display unit or other device. The big advantage with NMEA 2000 is many recent larger boats already have it installed and it can be tapped into, without running new cables. Instruments that are NMEA 2000 standard are connected to one central cable, known as a backbone. The backbone powers each instrument and relays data to the instruments on the network. This allows one MFD display unit to show many different types of information. It also allows the instruments to work together, since they share data. NMEA 2000 is meant to be "plug and play" to allow devices made by different manufacturers to talk and listen to each other.

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