Garmin GPSMAP and XB-8000 NMEA2k compatibility

[Ziggy]

Does anyone here have an NMEA 2000 network with both a Vesper XB-8000 AIS and a GPSMAP 546 chartplotter? It seems that the latest generation of Garmin chartplotters weren't recognizing XB-8000 on NMEA-2000 networks (see this Panbo article).

[colemj]

I'm pretty sure that was worked out between Garmin and Vesper, a firmware update was released and all is now fine.

Mark

[jeffrobbins]

Yes, Garmin fixed the problem and issued a firmware update last summer. Vesper Marine also put out an update that works around the Garmin issue. So either way resolves it.

[Ziggy]

Originally Posted by jeffrobbins

Yes, Garmin fixed the problem and issued a firmware update last summer. Vesper Marine also put out an update that works around the Garmin issue. So either way resolves it.

Jeff and Mark,
The reason I asked is that the last software update for GPSMAP 546 is dated November 18, 2013, apparently before this issue was discovered. So either it wasn't affecting the older models, or Garmin decided not to support them with new software releases. However, if the issue was completely fixed on the Vesper end, that's great!

[jeffrobbins]

My best guess is it didn't affect that model. The problem was introduced in a Garmin update which I believe was in Feb 2014. In any case, as you've noted it isn't an issue regardless.

[Ziggy]

Originally Posted by jeffrobbins

My best guess is it didn't affect that model. The problem was introduced in a Garmin update which I believe was in Feb 2014. In any case, as you've noted it isn't an issue regardless.

Jeff,
Thank you. I think XB-8000 is a great transponder, with fantastic customer service to match.
Z.