OpenCPN and VHF DSC Output

[sailingjazz]

I've read that OpenCPN is expecting DSC messages to be imbedded in the AIS stream. I have a DSC class D radio. It has a DSC nmea output. I would like OpenCPN to pick up these and DSC messages and plot them.

So, my question is; Can I use the DSC nmea output from my VHF radio to plot DSC buddies on OpenCPN on my laptop if I don't have AIS?

Thanks
Kevin

[fairbank56]

Not sure what you mean by "pick up these and DSC". If you have a DSC radio but not AIS and you have an MMSI programmed into the radio then yes, you can plot your buddies as long as they are sending you position reports.

Eric

[sailingjazz]

Thanks Eric. Sorry about the extra 'and'.

So, I just set the AIS stream to the port that the VHF is wired to and OpenCPN will plot the buddy DSC nmea messages? It doesn't matter that there are no AIS nmea messages?

Thanks for the help.

[fairbank56]

I have seen this work with the latest version of OpenCPN when connected through an NMEA multiplexer outputting at 38,400 speed. I don't know if OpenCPN will recognize DSC sentences at 4,800. I suspect not.

Eric

[sailingjazz]

Eric

Thanks. The VHF spec. does not say what the baud rate of the nmea out is. The input rate is 4800 so, I guessing output is also 4800. I think I'm going to plum it up and see what happens. I appreciate your help and I'll let you know what happens.

Thanks
Kevin