Steve wrote:

I don't see how the PCMCIA would let my nav software talk to my Autopilot..
The Crapn software wants to talk to the USB port where it finds the GPS
input data.

If the Garmin 12xl is a handheld, then I have problems using it below deck
at my nav station (been there done that) because of all the deck hardware
above the nav station..

What I really think I need is a good basic fixed mount GPS with an external
antenna. Don't need a chart plotter, etc. because I want to use my
navigation software on the laptop.. All of my digital charts are BSB and I
don't want to change to another format.

Steve
s/v Good Intentions

The Garmin 12XL is a handheld with all the features you'd expect to find
on an older fixed mount non mapping GPS except for external alarm and MOB
switch.

It accepts 12V power directly without a voltage converter. It has a socket
for an external antennae. It has an audiable beeper for waypoint arrival
etc.

Find yourself ANY active 5V GPS antennae, fit it on deck, run the lead
below and fit a matching connector for the GPS12XL, get the bracket for
the gps and a power/data plug from pfranc.com. Mount a 9 pin female D
connector handy for the PC and wire it to the GPS, with a switch to either
feed NMEA0183 to the autopilot from the PC output, or the GPS output, or
to disconnect the autopilot and feed the PC output back to the GPS input
so you can upload waypoints then put the GPS in control and switch the PC
off in rough weather or for powersaving on passage offshore.

I've set up a similar arrangement for a friend, and its been used a lot
this year.

N.B. the GPS12 does NOT run on 12V and does NOT have the external antennae
socket. You NEED the XL model!
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Ian Malcolm. London, ENGLAND. (NEWSGROUP REPLY PREFERRED)
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