OpenCPN connect to GPS

[MissMuse]

Having trouble getting openCPN to talk to GPS.

Please advise.

Thank you!

[hoolie]

Having trouble understanding your problem.

Please elaborate.

Thanks

ps please post with more details on the OpenCPN forum

[wingssail]

Originally Posted by MissMuse

Having trouble getting openCPN to talk to GPS.

Please advise.

Thank you!

The OpenCPN forum has some good instructions.

If you are using a PC for your OpenCPN then the first diagnostic step is to see if your computer is getting the signal.

I use HyperTerminal to examine the GPS data stream.

Steps:
1. After attaching the serial output of the GPS to the computer use Device Manager to determine which com port your PC has assigned to that connection
2. Open HyperTerminal (if you have it, if not, get it) and open a connection to that com port. you should see the GPS data.
3. If not then check the options on your GPS, maybe the NMEA data is turned off, or set to the wrong baud rate. It should be 4800 (but other speeds might work). If you see garbage then you are looking at the wrong speed.
4. Once you know that the GPS data is getting to the computer, and that the sentences include long/lat such as GPRMC, close Hyperterminal and open OpenCPN and set the connection to that COM port. OpenCPN should see it.

If these instructions seem too technical for you, find a techy friend to help you

[bcn]

And going quicker, why not move your question to the dedicated OCPN sub-forum here:

OpenCPN - Cruisers & Sailing Forums

Having installed OpenCPN F1 or the "?" button from the tool bar will give you access to the manual.

[Gruz]

Originally Posted by MissMuse

Having trouble getting openCPN to talk to GPS.

Please advise.

Thank you!

For beginning which Operating System and GPS do you have. GlobalSat BU-353 does not work with windows 10. If you have windows 10 you will need GlobalSat BU-353-S4.