Cable for AIS to plotter ?

[BobH260]

I have a new Standard Horizon GX2200 VHF radio with DSC, AIS. I need to run a cable from the nav station where the radio is to the helm to plug into my Raymarine C120W plotter. Does this need to be a shielded cable ? I don't see anything suitable at Defender or WM, suggestions ?
Thanks, Bob

[Wench'sCaptain]

If I remember correctly it all depends if you are connection with NEMA 0183 or 2000 which cable you use. Most simply use 0183 so they do not need a converter or backbone.

Just ask at WM or Defender for NMEA XXXX.

I might add there are known issues with the C120 and AIS make sure you have the latest SW update. Some messages are not processed correctly even with the update but that is just a nuisance you will be seen and they will see you.

"Please note that while the C-Series Widescreen MFDs are compatible with a number of NMEA 2000 devices (most notably for engine integration), they are not NMEA 2000 Certified. The complete list of NMEA 2000 Certified Raymarine products may be found here. Should you be experiencing the reported symptoms, then it would be recommended that the AIS/VHF Radio be interfaced via NMEA 0183 communications protocol to the MFD."

[BobH260]

I should have said it will be done using the NEMA 0183 interface at 38400 !
Bob

[Sandero]

You can do this with two small gauge wires... I do it thru / with ray seatalk box.

[Sailmonkey]

I use this stuff

http://www.ancorproducts.com/en/153010

However virtually any wire will work, even (shudder) lamp cord from the Home Depot.


Sent from my iPhone using Cruisers Sailing Forum

[S/V Alchemy]

Originally Posted by Sailmonkey

I use this stuff

Instrument Cable, 20/3 AWG (3 x 0.5mm²), Round - 100ft | Ancor

However virtually any wire will work, even (shudder) lamp cord from the Home Depot.


Sent from my iPhone using Cruisers Sailing Forum

As far as I am aware this is indeed correct. I would ideally, however, opt for tinned wires, which I would then cable-tie that corrugated loom over.

[jhstacy]

I recently did exactly what you are describing on my IP35. I had recently replaced my Raymarine chartplotter at the helm and also replaced my VHS at the nav station with an GX2200. I extended the blue STng backbone cables from the Autopilot to Chartplotter and on to Nav station. Then I used an actisense AIS module to connect the GX2200 to the STng Backbone. It worked perfectly as soon as I turned on the power to the STng instruments.
actually terrified me at first, It came up saying I was on a collision course with a boat up on land in the shipyard since they had not turned off their AIS.

[travellerw]

Technically you will want shielded cable to meet the NMEA0183 specs. A good source of shielded cable is old transducers (wind, depth).

Another source is Shielded Cat 5/6 cable. Although unshielded Cat 5/6 will work, I would only use it for temporary connection.

Amazon has NMEA 0183 cable but is WAY overpriced. Maybe you can google a cheaper option.
Amazon.com: Cobra Wire 22/4 Shielded Comm Cable - NMEA 0183 - Cable By The Foot - Grey: Electronics

[BobH260]

Thanks for all the suggestions. I have a good idea now of what to look for.
Bob