Instruments

This section describes the available tools for working with the chart in NSR ECDIS NES-3000. Tools refer to cursor states and functions accessible through the context menu.

Cursor Selection

Tools refer to the cursor state. Switching is performed using the menu, which is invoked by right-clicking or double-tapping on a touchscreen.

Tool selection menu

Available tools

Tool

Description

1

Chart Panning

Tool for panning the chart across the workspace

2

Measurements (ERBL)

Tool for measuring bearings and distances between points

3

Chart Scaling

Tool for scaling an arbitrary area on the chart

4

Chart Object Information

Obtaining detailed information about chart objects

5

Lens

Tool for detailed ENC viewing

Tip

For quick tool switching, use the context menu (right-click or double-tap on a touchscreen). The active tool is indicated by a change in the cursor appearance.

Chart Panning

The Chart Panning tool allows you to move the chart across the workspace to view different areas. It is activated through the context menu or the tool selection menu.

Tool activation

The tool is activated by clicking the panning icon Panning in the tool selection menu. When activated, the ECDIS cursor changes to Panning cursor.

Usage

To pan the chart:

  1. Using the mouse: press and hold the left mouse button on the chart and, without releasing, move the cursor in the desired direction. The chart will follow the cursor movement.

  2. On a touchscreen: touch the screen on the chart and, without releasing, move your finger in the desired direction.

Tip

The chart panning tool is especially convenient for quick navigation across large areas of the chart without changing the scale.

Operating features

  • The chart moves smoothly in the direction of the cursor or finger movement

  • Movement is possible in any direction

  • When the mouse button or finger is released, movement stops

  • The tool remains active until another tool is selected

Note

The panning tool does not change the chart scale, only its position in the viewing window.

Tip

When centering mode is enabled Center on, the chart will return to the vessel position. To move the chart beyond the screen and view areas outside the vessel position, disable centering Center off.

Chart Scaling

The Chart Scaling tool allows you to zoom in or zoom out an arbitrary area on the chart. It is activated through the context menu or the tool selection menu.

Tool activation

The tool is activated by clicking the scaling icon Scaling in the tool selection menu. When activated, the ECDIS cursor changes to Scaling cursor

Zooming in

To zoom in on an arbitrary area of the chart:

  1. Using the mouse: press and hold the left mouse button at any point on the chart and, without releasing, move the cursor in the south-east or south-west direction, defining the selection area (orange frame).

  2. On a touchscreen: touch the screen at a point on the chart and, without releasing, move your finger in the south-east or south-west direction.

The area bounded by the frame will be zoomed in and fitted to the chart window dimensions.

Zooming in

Zooming out

To zoom out of an arbitrary area on the chart:

Perform the same actions as for zooming in, but with different frame construction directions: north-east or north-west.

The area bounded by the frame will be zoomed out.

Zooming out

Operating features

Directions for scaling:

  • Zoom in: cursor movement in the south-east or south-west direction

  • Zoom out: cursor movement in the north-east or north-west direction

Visual indication:

  • The selected area is displayed with an orange frame

  • After releasing the mouse button or finger, scaling is applied automatically

Tip

For precise scaling, select an area corresponding to the chart section of interest.

The scaling tool is especially useful when working with detailed chart areas or when you need to quickly switch to an overview.

Note

The direction of cursor movement determines the operation (zoom in or zoom out). Remember: southward direction — zoom in, northward direction — zoom out.

Chart and Object Information

The Chart and Object Information tool allows you to obtain detailed information about objects and chart cells at a specified point on the chart.

Tool activation

The tool is activated by clicking the information icon Information in the tool selection menu. The ECDIS cursor will change to Information cursor.

Obtaining information

To obtain information, left-click (tap) the point of interest on the chart. The bottom window will display a tree with information.

Chart and object information window

Information interface elements

Element

Description

1

Query point coordinates

Displays the coordinates of the point being queried

Format: latitude and longitude in the selected coordinate system

2

Chart

ENC cell name

Expanded by left-clicking (tapping) the row

3

ENC cell

Displays the ENC cell name and its attributes for which object information is being queried. If there are larger-scale ENC cells under the queried position, data will only be collected from the displayed cell

4

Objects

Expandable section with a list of chart objects

Expanded by double-clicking (double-tapping) the row

Contains all objects located at the specified point

5

Object list

List of all chart objects at the specified coordinates

Displayed when the “Objects” section is expanded

Detailed attributes can be obtained for each object

6

Selected object indication

Visual highlighting of the selected object or chart cell in the chart window

The object is highlighted on the chart when selected in the list

7

Highlight (active)

Highlight active In active highlight mode

Area objects are highlighted with a background

Allows visual identification of objects on the chart

8

Point object highlight

Highlight active In active highlight mode

Point objects are marked with a cross

Helps quickly locate an object on the chart by its symbol

9

Highlight (inactive)

Highlight inactive In inactive mode

Object highlighting is turned off

Used to disable visual indication

Magnetic variation information (MAGVAR)

Magnetic variation (MAGVAR) is displayed in the information window. Double-clicking (double-tapping) the row opens a window with more detailed information.

Magnetic variation information

For detailed information about magnetic variation, see the Magnetic Variation section below.

Important

Only one object can be highlighted at a time!

When a new object is selected, the previous one is automatically unhighlighted.

Detailed object information

Detailed information can be obtained for each chart cell or object present in the table. To do this, double-click (double-tap) the entry of interest, after which a window with attributes and their values for the selected object or chart sheet will be shown.

Chart cell attributes

Chart cell attributes

The window contains detailed information about the selected ENC cell, including:

  • Cell name

  • ENC compilation scale

  • Issue date

  • Update status

  • Additional metadata

Object attributes

Object attributes

The window contains all attributes and their values for the selected object:

  • Object type

  • Category

  • Description

  • S-52 symbol

  • Associated (dependent) objects

  • Additional characteristics

Additional attributes

Magnetic Variation

If the ENC cell contains encoded magnetic variation data, the data will be displayed in the information window.

Magnetic variation information in ENC

Information content:

  • Magnetic variation value for the given area

  • Year of magnetic variation determination

  • Annual rate of change

  • Data accuracy

  • Information source

Tidal Currents

If the ENC contains encoded tidal current data, the data will be displayed in the information window as a tidal stream table.

Tidal current information

Information content:

  • Tidal current data at the specified point

  • Current speed

  • Current direction

  • Tide phases

  • Temporal characteristics

Graphical Information

Chart objects may contain additional graphical information, for example: information from navigational publications or graphical representation of an object.

When external data is available, a corresponding entry will be displayed in the window. To view:

  1. Double-click to view extended information

  2. Then double-click the entry with the image in graphical format

Operating features

Viewing modes:

  • Cell list: view all ENCs at the query point

  • Object list: view all chart objects at the point

  • Detailed information: view attributes of the selected item

Interactivity:

  • Clicking a row in the list highlights the object on the chart

  • Double-clicking opens the detailed information window

  • Highlighting can be turned on/off for visual control

Tip

Use the information tool for quick access to data about objects on the chart without the need to construct graphical elements.

The tool is especially useful when working with navigational objects, buoys, lighthouses, and other ENC elements to obtain their exact characteristics and purpose.

Note

All objects and chart cells displayed in the information window correspond to the current chart scale and selected display settings. When the scale or display settings change, the list may be updated.

Note

ASM and AIO data are also displayed in this window.

Bearing and Distance Measurement (ERBL)

The ERBL (Electronic Bearing and Range Line) tool is designed to measure directions (bearings) and distances from the vessel to an arbitrary point, or between two arbitrary points on the chart.

Tool activation

The tool is activated by clicking the ERBL icon ERBL in the tool selection menu. When activated, the ECDIS cursor changes to ERBL cursor.

Important

In bearing and distance measurement mode, chart panning is blocked!

Measuring bearing and distance from the vessel

To measure the bearing and distance from the current vessel position, left-click (tap) the point of interest on the chart.

Measurement from vessel

Features:

  • The bearing is measured from the current vessel position to the selected point

  • The distance is calculated automatically

  • If the mouse button is released (finger lifted), the initial point resets to the vessel position

Measuring between two points

To measure between two arbitrary points on the chart:

  1. Press and hold the left mouse button at the first point

  2. Drag the cursor to the second point

  3. Release the mouse button

Measurement between points

Measurement parameters

Parameter

Description

Bearing

The angle between the north direction and the measurement line (in degrees). Forward direction (T) — from the vessel to the point, and reverse direction (R) — from the point to the vessel.

When measuring between two arbitrary points, only the forward direction from the first point to the second is displayed

Distance

The distance between the measurement points (in nautical miles, meters, or kilometers)

Origin point

The vessel position or the first selected point on the chart

Endpoint

The selected measurement point

Note

The ERBL line type is always a great circle (GC).

Operating features

Measurement modes:

  • From vessel: click a point on the chart — measurement from the current vessel position

  • Between points: press and drag — measurement between two arbitrary points

Indication:

  • The measurement line is displayed on the chart

  • Measurement parameters (bearing and distance) are shown in the information window or on the chart

Reset:

  • Releasing the mouse button without dragging returns to the origin point (vessel position)

  • To start a new measurement, simply select a new point

Tip

Use the ERBL tool for rapid estimation of distances and directions when planning maneuvers or working with navigational objects on the chart.

For accurate measurements, select points on the chart considering the current scale — the larger the scale, the more accurate the measurement.

Note

The ERBL tool is an indispensable means for performing navigational calculations and assessing the situation on the chart without the need to construct complex graphical plots.

Lens

The Lens tool displays the area around the cursor at a magnified scale in the multi-function window, allowing you to examine a section of the chart in detail without changing the overall scale of the main window.

Tool activation

The tool is activated by clicking the lens icon Lens in the tool selection menu. When the tool is enabled, the active cursor changes to Lens cursor, and a rectangular frame proportional to the multi-function window dimensions is drawn around the cursor.

Important

In lens mode, chart panning is blocked!

Lens display

The lens is displayed in the Multi-function window under the Overview tab.

Lens display in the overview window

Element

Description

1

Viewing area

The frame displays the area shown in the multi-function window

2

Current scale

ENC display scale in the multi-function window. Default is x.1.2

3

ENC centering

In Lens mode, if Center on was enabled, it switches to Center off

4

Scale control

Changing the ENC scale in the multi-function window. The scale can also be changed by rotating the mouse wheel

Warning

ENC display density in Lens mode is preset and cannot be adjusted separately.

Working with the lens

Moving the viewing area:

  1. Using the mouse: move the cursor across the chart — the cursor and the area rectangle will move accordingly, with the chart in the overview window being redrawn

  2. On a touchscreen: the cursor and rectangle are moved by touching the area of interest

Changing the scale:

When moving the cursor with the left mouse button held down or by holding your finger on the touchscreen, the scale will be Best Scale x 1.5.

Operating features

Display scale:

  • The multi-function window shows the chart at the largest scale within the area bounded by the cursor rectangle

  • When holding the mouse button, the scale increases to Best Scale x 1.5

Synchronization:

  • Moving the cursor on the main window automatically updates the image in the lens

  • The rectangular frame follows the cursor movement

  • The chart in the overview window is redrawn in real time

  • Chart orientation — course-up

Limitations:

  • Chart panning is blocked in lens mode

  • To pan the chart, switch to another tool

Tip

Use the lens tool to examine chart areas in detail without changing the main window scale.

This is especially convenient when working with navigational objects, buoys, and other chart elements that require detailed study without losing the overall context of the main display.

Note

The dimensions of the lens rectangular frame are directly dependent on the multi-function window dimensions. When the window is resized, the frame automatically adapts.

Markers

The Markers tool allows you to place up to four reference points on the chart for rapid assessment of distance (DIST), bearing (BRG), and reverse bearing (Rev BRG) to selected reference points.

Menu path

MenuMarkers

Tool activation

The tool is available from the tool selection menu or through the main menu. Marker placement and editing operations become available on the chart.

Markers window

Marker interface elements

Element

Description

1

Own ship symbol

Current position of own ship on the chart; used as the base for DIST/BRG/Rev BRG calculation

2

Marker Marker

A point placed on the chart. The marker is connected to the ship symbol by a line

3

DIST/BRG/Rev BRG values

Calculated parameters for the current marker:

- DIST — distance
- BRG — bearing
- Rev BRG — reverse bearing

4

Bearing line

Graphical line from the vessel to the marker for visualizing the direction

5

Set

Adds a marker to the list and to the chart. The marker coordinates correspond to the center of the chart window

6

Marker symbol in table

Marker designation in the table portion of the markers window

7

Parameter values (table)

Non-editable Distance, Bearing, Rev Bearing values for the marker

8

Marker coordinates (Lat/Lon)

Editable latitude and longitude fields of the marker. Can be adjusted after placement

9

Positioning

Centers the chart on the selected marker coordinates

10

Delete

Deletes the selected marker. If no marker is selected, the button is unavailable. Deletion is also available via the hardware Delete key

Important

The maximum number of markers is 4.

Methods for placing markers

  • Tabular method: press Set, adjust the coordinates in the Latitude/Longitude fields if necessary, press Enter to confirm

  • Using the mouse: left-click at the desired location on the chart (coordinates can be adjusted in the table)

  • Using a touchscreen: touch the desired point on the chart and adjust the coordinates if necessary

Note

After saving and closing the Markers window, markers remain on the chart and their positions are fixed.

Event Mark

The Event Mark tool is designed for placing marks by the navigating officer associated with events, at the navigating officer’s discretion.

Action (quick mark)

To create an event mark, use the quick mark button Quick mark or the keyboard shortcut CtrlJ.

Function description

Event marks are displayed in a separate chart object layer. To display event marks, enable the Event display in the Chart objects section and enable the layer in Operational Settings.

Creating an event mark

Creating an event mark

Element

Description

1

Event

Single-action button — create an event mark

2

Event mark

The event mark is displayed in accordance with IEC 62288

3

Notification

Notification of event mark creation

When an event mark is created, a screenshot of the current screen is taken. The screenshot is linked to the created event mark.

After adding an event mark, a message is displayed in the notification area.

Entry in the logbook

The mark is recorded in the Electronic Logbook as a standard Event entry. All event marks placed by the navigating officer are located on the vessel’s track.

Editing an event mark

The navigating officer may, at their discretion, assign a name to the event mark and add an extended description.

Editing the mark:

  1. Left-click (tap) the mark on the chart

Event mark editing dialog

  1. In the window, enter the event name and description, if necessary

  2. Save changes — Save button

After saving, the name will be displayed next to the mark.

Event mark with name

Editing via the logbook

Editing the name and/or description of an event mark:

  • Reopen the mark selection dialog on the chart

  • Via the **Logbook**

Important

Deletion of event marks from the logbook is not possible.

Event marks are permanent records and cannot be deleted. This ensures the preservation of the navigation event history.

Display of event marks

Only event marks placed after the current ECDIS startup (current session) are displayed on the chart.

Viewing event marks from previous sessions:

  • Open the Electronic Logbook

  • Select the required date range

  • Marks selected for display will be shown on the ENC with red symbols

Operating features

Screenshots:

  • A screenshot of the current screen is automatically taken when an event mark is created

  • The screenshot is linked to the mark and accessible when viewing via the Electronic Logbook

Vessel track:

  • All event marks are located on the vessel’s track

  • This allows tracking events in chronological order

Names and descriptions:

  • The name is displayed next to the mark on the chart (after saving)

  • The description is available when selecting the mark or via the Electronic Logbook

  • Editing is available at any time

Tip

Use event marks to record important navigational events: changes in weather conditions, discovery of navigational hazards, and other significant situations.

Assigning names and descriptions facilitates quick search and analysis of events.

Note

Event marks are part of the logbook and may have legal significance. It is recommended to use them to record all important navigational events.

Go to Coordinates (Go To)

The Go To Coordinates function centers the screen on manually entered coordinates.

Invoking the function

The function is invoked by pressing the Go to coordinates button.

Function description

The function provides a quick transition to a specified point on the ENC by entering coordinates, without manually searching the chart.

Coordinate input masks

Three coordinate input masks are available — selection is made via radio buttons. Previously entered coordinates will be automatically recalculated when switching between masks.

Mask types:

  • Degrees, minutes, seconds (DMS) — format: DD°MM’SS” Coordinate input mask 1

  • Degrees and decimal minutes (DDM) — format: DD°MM.MMM’ Coordinate input mask 2

  • Decimal degrees (DD) — format: DD.DDDDDD° Coordinate input mask 3

Usage

Go to a specified point:

  1. Press Go to coordinates

  2. Select a convenient coordinate input mask

  3. Enter the point coordinates

  4. Press Go

The center of the chart window will be moved to the specified coordinates.

Operating features

Automatic coordinate conversion:

  • When switching between input masks, previously entered coordinates are automatically recalculated

  • This allows working with various coordinate formats

Coordinate retention:

  • When opening/closing the window, the last entered coordinates are retained

  • Coordinates are stored during the open session (until ECDIS is powered off or restarted)

One-time action:

  • The tool performs the transition once

  • To go to another point, re-enter the coordinates and press Go

Tip

Use the “Go to Coordinates” tool for quick navigation to known points on the chart: ports, landmarks, coordinates from navigational messages.

The choice of input mask depends on the format of the source coordinates. When working with coordinates from NAVTEX or Notices to Mariners, the DMS mask (degrees, minutes, seconds) is more convenient.

Note

To go to coordinates in a system other than WGS84, coordinate conversion must be performed beforehand.

Manual Update

Note

Manual Update is a standalone option. The availability of the Manual Update option depends on the ECDIS license.

Manual Update is designed for applying corrections to ENCs based on Notices to Mariners. Manual Update makes changes within the ENC cell.

Menu path

MenuUser chartManual Update

Important

To display manual updates on the chart, enable the Manual Updates layer in **Operational Settings**

Warning

When applying manual updates, the display period of manual updates must be considered — 3 months. After 3 months, manual ENC updates will be automatically removed.

Available functions:

  • History — view and edit manual update objects and user objects.

  • **User chart** — add user objects.

Selection: Update type selection

Selecting cells for update

ENC cell table

Warning

The table contains a list of ENC cells of all scale levels that fall within the chart window.

ENC cell table

Element

Description

1

ENC cell list

When the chart is panned in the main window, the cell list updates

2

Go to cell

Centers the cell in the main window

3

Select

Select objects to add to the ENC — add update objects

4

Refresh

Refresh the ENC list. Press after panning the chart in the main window

5

From ENC

Press to select chart objects for editing

Adding an object

Adding a manual update object is performed sequentially in several steps.

1. Select a cell

Select a cell in the table and press Select.

A list of cartographic objects available for adding will open.

Objects list

2. Select the object type

Select the object type — a list of objects of the selected type expands.

The list contains all object types available for adding to the ENC.

Object types

3. Select an object

Select an object from the list.

Fill in the object properties and attributes.

In the main window, the ENC cell being updated will be highlighted with a blue frame.

Object attributes

4. Select object geometry

Select the object geometry (depends on the object):

  • Point — for adding point objects: buoys, wells, lighthouses, etc.

  • Area — for adding areas, regions, land portions, etc.

  • Line — for adding linear objects, fairways, recommended tracks, limit lines, etc. (the line may be single or composite, polyline)

  • Circle — for adding circles by specifying the circle radius and center coordinates

Geometry types

5. Add attributes

Press Add attributes to open the attributes list.

The attributes list contains only the attributes available for the object.

Attributes list

6. Fill in attributes

Fill in the required object attributes.

Filled attributes

7. Add child objects

If necessary, add child objects.

Child objects inherit the properties of the parent object.

Child objects 1

Child objects 2

Child objects 3

8. Place on chart

  • Using the cursor — point to the position on the chart

  • By entering coordinates — enter exact coordinates manually

Object placement 1

Object placement 2

Tip

Object points can be placed on the chart using the cursor, then adjusted in the input fields.

9. Object display

Enable/disable the Display on chart checkbox to show the object on the chart.

The object will be displayed on the chart, within the scamin attribute limits.

Save the object.

Object display settings

Object on chart

Important

Manual update history for the selected cell will be reflected in the History. Making changes to an update object is treated as a new update.

Analyzing received automatic updates for matches between manual and automatic updates is the responsibility of the navigating officer.

All manual updates are reflected in the ENC collection report.

Warning

When adding objects, the Source of update and Author of update properties must be filled in — specifying the update source and the author who performed the update.

Editing a chart object

1. Select mode

Select Manual Update from the dropdown list.

Objects list for editing

2. Select an object

Press Select on chart to select an object on the chart. Point to the object to edit with the cursor.

3. Open for editing

Select the object in the list — press Edit icon.

Object selected for editing

4. Apply the update

Fill in the necessary object properties and attributes.

The same editing parameters are available as when adding an object.

Filling attributes during editing

5. Save changes

Press Save.

All changes are documented in the history.

Saving changes

Deleting objects

To delete manual update objects, perform the following steps.

1. Select delete mode

Select Delete objects from the list of objects available for editing.

2. Select an object to delete

Select the object to delete on the chart or from the object list.

3. Confirm deletion

Confirm the deletion.

Important

Deleted manual update objects are recorded in the change history, but cannot be restored through the editing interface.

Change history

1. Opening history

Select History from the dropdown list.

Change history list

History management features:

Function

Description

Cell list

The list contains all cells to which manual updates have been applied

Edit and delete

Any manual update object in the list can be edited or deleted

Filter

For convenient searching, use Filter. Allows filtering updates by various criteria

Calendar

To select updates by application dates, use the calendar. The table will show only cells updated within the selected date range

Manual update features

Types of changes

  • Add — create new objects on the ENC

  • Edit — modify existing objects

  • Delete — remove objects from the chart

History and reporting

All manual update actions are recorded:

  • All changes are logged in the update history

  • Changes are reflected in the ENC collection report

  • Searching and filtering by dates and cells is available

Interaction with automatic updates

When working with manual updates, interaction with automatic updates must be considered:

  • The navigating officer is obliged to analyze matches between manual and automatic updates

  • If discrepancies exist, a decision on priority is required

Warning

Manual update is an official document and must correspond to information from Notices to Mariners. If discrepancies with automatic updates are detected, an analysis must be conducted and a justified decision made. Priority should be given to automatic updates.

Tip

It is recommended to keep detailed records of applied manual updates, including the information source (Notice to Mariners number and date), the date of application, and the responsible person. This simplifies subsequent analysis and verification of updates.

Mariner’s Objects

Note

Mariner’s Objects is a standalone option. The availability of the Mariner’s Objects option depends on the ECDIS license.

Mariner’s Objects — information objects designed for chart enhancement and placing objects and notes by the navigating officer for their own convenience, when discrepancies with ENCs are found that are not covered by Notices to Mariners, or when placing NAVTEX objects. Mariner’s Objects are not a substitute for manual updates.

Menu path

MenuUser chartMariner’s Objects

Important

Mariner’s Objects form the user chart and are not part of ENC cells.

See also

To display Mariner’s Objects on the chart, enable the Manual Updates layer in **Operational Settings**.

Mariner’s Objects are displayed in a separate chart layer. The layer can be disabled.

ECDIS uses an extended list of Mariner’s Objects. The navigating officer can add cartographic objects to the user chart.

Mariner's object types selection window 1

Mariner's object types selection window 2

Types of Mariner’s Objects

Available Mariner’s Object types for placement:

Clearing Line (Danger Bearing)

Clearing Line (Danger Bearing). Available geometry — line, polyline.

Clearing line example 1

Clearing line example 2

Danger Highlight

Danger Highlight. Available geometry — point, area, circle.

Danger highlight example 1

Danger highlight example 2

Danger highlight example 3

Event

Event. Available geometry — point.

Event icon

Event creation window

Manufacturers Feature

Manufacturers Feature. Available geometry — point, line, area, circle.

Manufacturers feature 1

Manufacturers feature 2

Manufacturers feature window

Manufacturers feature 3

Manufacturers feature 4

Mariner’s Note

Mariner’s Note. Available geometry — point.

Mariner's note icon

Mariner’s Feature

Mariner’s Feature. Available geometry — point, line, area, circle.

Mariner's feature 1

Mariner's feature 2

Position

Position. Available geometry — point.

Position window 1

Position window 2

Tidal Stream or Current Vector

Tidal Stream or Current Vector. Available geometry — point.

Current vector

User-added Electronic Chart Information

User-added Electronic Chart Information. Available geometry — point, line, area, circle.

User data 1

User data 2

Creating a Mariner’s Object

To create a Mariner’s Object, perform the following steps:

1. Select the object type

Select the Mariner’s Object type from the available object types.

2. Select the object geometry

Select the object geometry according to the selected object type.

3. Fill in attributes

Select and fill in additional object attributes.

4. Child object properties

Select and fill in the properties of the parent object’s children (if available for the selected object).

5. Metadata

It is recommended to fill in the Author and Source fields.

6. Place on chart

Place the object on the chart using one of the following methods:

  • Using the cursor — point to the position on the chart

  • By entering coordinates — enter exact coordinates manually

7. Coordinate adjustment

Adjust the object coordinates or node coordinates manually, if necessary.

8. Save changes

Save changes.

Mariner’s Objects are stored in the User Chart.

User chart management window

User Chart Import

Menu path

MenuUser chartUser ChartUser Chart Import

User Chart import is only possible for a chart created on an identical ECDIS, ECS, or WECDSS.

When importing a User Chart, the current ECDIS User Chart and the imported one are merged.

Important

When importing a User Chart, ECDIS does not check for duplicate user objects.

User Chart Export

Menu path

MenuUser chartUser ChartUser Chart Export

User Chart export is only possible for a chart created on an identical ECDIS, ECS, or WECDSS.

Note

User Chart export and import allows exchanging user data between systems of the same type, ensuring continuity of navigational information when transitioning from one ECDIS to another.

Danger

It is prohibited to use Mariner’s Objects for placing manual update objects. When automatic updates are installed, confusion may arise between automatic update objects and Mariner’s Objects.

Anchor Watch

Anchor watch monitors the position of an anchored vessel and ensures there is no drift by keeping the vessel within a safety radius.

Menu path

MenuAnchor watchRadiusActivate

Anchoring

When approaching the anchoring point, press Anchor watch

1. Enter the safety radius

Enter the Radius of safety circle.

Safety radius input window

Attention

Safety radius is calculated in advance by the navigating officer.

2. Activate anchor watch

At the point of letting go the anchor, press Activate.

Hint

The anchor is let go while the vessel has sternway. Activating anchor watch fixes the anchor dropping point.

anchor down

When anchor watch is activated, the anchor watch button shows: Anchor watch on.

Active anchor watch icon

Hint

As the vessel weighs on the anchor chain and moves astern, the monitoring sector will be oriented along the course vector, in the direction of the stern.

Chart display

The chart will display the set safety circle and the anchor symbol at the anchor dropping point.

The safety zone is bounded by an orange circle.

Anchor watch — normal condition

Hint

The vessel is within the safety radius.

Drift monitoring

When the vessel outline exceeds the safety radius, the circle and the anchor symbol will turn red, and a Warning (Anchor watch) will be generated.

Anchor watch — warning

Anchor watch warning window

Important

If the warning is not acknowledged by the navigating officer within 2 minutes, and the vessel outline exceeds the safety radius, the warning escalates to an Alarm.

Danger

A tendency of the vessel to move beyond the safety radius may indicate that the anchor is dragging, and the navigating officer must take all measures to prevent the development of an emergency situation.

Anchor watch alarm window

Return to the safety zone

If the vessel outline returns within the safety circle, the warning/alarm becomes inactive.

When anchor watch monitoring is disabled, all warnings are cleared.

Tip

It is recommended to calculate the safety radius in accordance with the methods and recommendations adopted for the given vessel. This manual does not contain any recommendations on calculating anchor chain length or the safety radius.

Person Overboard (POB)

Person Overboard (POB) records the point where a person fell overboard, or the point where a missing person is discovered on board.

Menu path

Menu

Recording the fall point

When a person falls overboard, or at the moment a missing person is discovered on board, press

Indication of POB mode activation: Man overboard on

1. POB on ENC

The Person Overboard (POB) event will be displayed on the chart.

POB event

Attention

Between the vessel and the POB event, the bearing and distance from the vessel to the POB will be displayed.

An alarm will be generated. POB alarm

2. Deactivating POB mode

Deactivation requires confirmation.

Press Man overboard on

Confirm cancellation of POB mode.

POB off

Confirm cancellation.

Note

The POB event is recorded in the logbook.

Logbook

POB — logbook

SAR (Search and Rescue)

Note

SAR — search and rescue route planning is performed in accordance with IAMSAR vol. 3 recommendations.

The calculation is performed for three patterns:

  • Square — search within a designated square

  • Sector — search within a designated sector

  • Parallel track — search within a designated area

Menu path

MenuSARSearch and Rescue

SAR menu

Important

The navigating officer is obliged to follow the methods and recommendations of IAMSAR vol. III for selecting the search strip width and calculating the search speed to ensure the specified search coverage.

Warning

When automatically generating search routes, ECDIS does not account for navigational characteristics of the search and rescue area.

The navigating officer must verify the search route for safety and, if necessary, correct the route.

Square

ECDIS will calculate and generate a SAR route according to the specified criteria for the Square pattern.

Square pattern window

Element

Description

1

Pattern

Standard pattern used for calculating and generating the search route

2

Search radius

The circle around which the search route is constructed

3

Search width

The sweep width for the search area at the given vessel speed

4

Generate route

Generates the search route according to the specified criteria. The generated route is stored in the route list

5

Leg bearing

Direction of the first route leg

6

Speed

Search speed. The search strip width depends on the search speed

7

Side

Select the turn side (which side to turn towards)

8

\(V_{\text{eco}}\)

Sets the Speed parameter to the economic speed value

9

Origin point coordinates

Coordinates of the search route origin point

10

Current vessel position

Sets the current vessel coordinates as the route origin point coordinates

11

Person Overboard (POB)

Sets the POB event coordinates as the route origin point coordinates. Active only when POB mode is active

12

Cursor coordinates

Sets the cursor coordinates as the route origin point coordinates

Generated square route

Square route on chart

After generating the route, navigate to the route collection to adjust, verify, and activate the generated search route.

Note

The search route consists of: a leg from the current vessel position to the search route origin point, and the search route itself.

Sector

ECDIS will calculate and generate a SAR route according to the specified criteria for the Sector pattern.

Sector pattern window

Element

Description

1

Pattern

Standard pattern used for calculating and generating the search route

2

Search radius

The circle around which the search route is constructed

3

Search width

The sweep width for the search area at the given vessel speed

4

Generate route

Generates the search route according to the specified criteria. The generated route is stored in the route list

5

Leg bearing

Direction of the first route leg

6

Speed

Search speed. The search strip width depends on the search speed

7

Side

Select the turn side (which side to turn towards)

8

\(V_{\text{eco}}\)

Sets the Speed parameter to the economic speed value

9

Origin point coordinates

Coordinates of the search route origin point

10

Current vessel position

Sets the current vessel coordinates as the route origin point coordinates

11

Person Overboard (POB)

Sets the POB event coordinates as the route origin point coordinates. Active only when POB mode is active

12

Cursor coordinates

Sets the cursor coordinates as the route origin point coordinates

Generated sector route

Sector route on chart

After generating the route, navigate to the route collection to adjust, verify, and activate the generated search route.

Note

The search route consists of: a leg from the current vessel position to the search route origin point, and the search route itself.

Parallel tracks

ECDIS will calculate and generate a SAR route according to the specified criteria for the Parallel tracks pattern.

Parallel tracks pattern window

Element

Description

1

Pattern

Standard pattern used for calculating and generating the search route

2

Search width

The sweep width for the search area at the given vessel speed

3

Generate route

Generates the search route according to the specified criteria. The generated route is stored in the route list

4

Select Area

Define the search area by drawing its boundaries on the chart using the cursor

Select search area

Search area controls window

Search area management functions:

  • Clear — clear (remove from chart) the previously constructed search area

  • Apply — apply the constructed search area for calculations

  • Cancel — exit the search area construction function

Element

Description

5

Speed

Search speed. The search strip width depends on the search speed

6

Side

Select the turn side (which side to turn towards)

7

\(V_{\text{eco}}\)

Sets the Speed parameter to the economic speed value

The route will be generated from the current vessel position. The entry point to the search area is the nearest point of the search area to the vessel position. The entry point to the search area is the origin point of the search route. The route is fitted into the search area considering the search strip width.

Generated parallel tracks route

Parallel tracks route on chart

After generating the route, navigate to the route collection to adjust, verify, and activate the generated search route.

Note

The search route consists of: a leg from the current vessel position to the search route origin point, and the search route itself.

Tip

It is recommended to use the “Parallel tracks” pattern for searching within a defined area with known boundaries. This provides maximum coverage of the designated area with search strips.

Caution

The recommendations in this manual regarding search route generation cannot and do not replace the recommendations of IAMSAR. The navigating officer is obliged to follow the requirements of normative documents and good seamanship practice when planning search and rescue operations.

Geodetic Calculator

The Geodetic Calculator solves the direct (forward) and inverse (reverse) geodetic problems.

Menu path

MenuToolsGeocalculator

The calculator solves problems on a plane (rhumb line) and on a sphere (great circle).

Hint

It is recommended to use coordinates in the ENC coordinate system — WGS 84 — for calculations.

To calculate

  1. Select Task type

  2. Select Line type

  3. Enter input data (Input data)

  4. Press Calculate

Direct geodetic problem — rhumb line

Direct geodetic problem — great circle

Inverse geodetic problem — rhumb line

Inverse geodetic problem — great circle

Element

Description

1

Direct

Select to solve the direct geodetic problem

2

Inverse

Select to solve the inverse geodetic problem

3

Rumb Line

Select to solve the problem on a plane

4

Great Circle

Select to solve the problem on a sphere

5

Origin point coordinates

Coordinates of the origin point from which the problem is solved

6

Direction

Direction from the origin point (for the direct problem)

7

Distance

Distance from the origin point (for the direct problem)

8

Result

Coordinates of the geodetic line endpoint (for the direct problem)

9

Calculate

Press to calculate

10

Point №1 coordinates

Coordinates of the first point (for the inverse problem)

11

Point №2 coordinates

Coordinates of the second point (for the inverse problem)

12

Direction from Point №1 to Point №2

Calculated direction (for the inverse problem)

13

Reverse direction

Calculated reverse direction from Point №2 to Point №1 (for the inverse problem)

14

Distance between points

Calculated distance between Point №1 and Point №2 (for the inverse problem)

Direct geodetic problem

Input data for the Direct geodetic problem: origin point coordinates, direction, and geodetic line length.

Result: endpoint coordinates.

Line types:

  • Rhumb line — calculation on a plane

  • Great circle — calculation on a sphere

Inverse geodetic problem

Input data for the Inverse geodetic problem: coordinates of the start and end points of the geodetic line.

Result: direction and length of the geodetic line.

Line types:

  • Rhumb line — calculation on a plane

  • Great circle — calculation on a sphere

Note

After performing the calculation, the input data is not cleared. This allows you to perform a series of calculations with parameter adjustments.

Tip

For precise navigational calculations, it is recommended to use the great circle, as it accounts for the Earth’s sphericity and provides more accurate results for long distances.

Tip

For short-distance calculations (up to 100 nautical miles), the rhumb line can be used, which simplifies calculations and provides sufficient accuracy.

Manual Observations

Manual Observations are designed for monitoring and refining the vessel position by visual or radar methods.

Menu path

MenuManual observations

Types of observations

The following types of observations are available:

  • Position fixing by 2 or 3 bearings

  • Position fixing by 2 or 3 distances

  • Position fixing by bearing and distance to a single reference point

Important

When measuring navigational parameters, measure those parameters that change slowly first.

When measuring bearings:

  • Measure bearings to reference points near the bow or stern bearings first

  • Then those near the beam

When measuring distances:

  • Measure distances to reference points near the beam first

  • Then those near the bow or stern bearings

Important

When selecting reference points, choose those whose distance does not exceed 10 nautical miles. If the distance to any reference point exceeds 10 miles, the observation will not be calculated.

Performing an observation

1. Select the observation type

Tip

The observation method, reference points, and combination of reference points are selected by the navigating officer based on the current navigational situation.

Select the observation type from the dropdown list:

  • Bearings — position fixing by 2 or 3 bearings

  • Distances — position fixing by 2 or 3 distances

  • Dist and bearing — position fixing by bearing and distance to a single reference point

The number of position lines is determined by the observed and positively identified reference points.

Observation type selection window

2. Select a reference point

Press Set ref. point, select a reference point on the chart.

The Objects under cursor table will display point objects on the chart located under the cursor, including the cursor position as a reference point.

Important

ECDIS scans objects located under the cursor. Object detection depends on the correct encoding of the ENC cell. When an object is detected and selected, the coordinates encoded in the object are used for calculations. If the navigating officer sets the cursor position as the reference point, the cursor coordinates are used for calculations. Higher priority should be given to chart objects.

Reference point selection window

3. Add an object to the reference points table

Select an object from the list and press the add button. The object will be added to the reference points table.

Reference points table

Element

Description

1

Reference point name (manual input)

Reference point name entered manually. During ENC encoding, some objects may be encoded without a name, or the object may not have a name (for example, a distinctive section of coastline)

2

Reference point name (automatic)

Reference point name populated automatically. Several objects or a composite object may be located under the cursor. In this case, the navigating officer must select the object independently

3

Sensor

The sensor from which measurements were taken. This may be a standard optical pelorus on the port or starboard side, or a radar. The sensor selection is taken into account when calculating the observed position coordinates

4

Measurement time

The time of the navigational parameter measurement. All measurements are reduced to the time of the last measurement

5

Navigational parameter

The value of the measured navigational parameter (bearing or distance)

6

Delete position line

Delete the navigational parameter. The navigating officer may delete a navigational parameter depending on the situation. Deletion of a navigational parameter is available only before solving the task

7

Positioning on reference point

Pan the chart to the selected reference point

8

Master mode

Black font labels — ECDIS in Master mode, observation can be accepted for dead reckoning

9

BackUp mode

Gray font labels — ECDIS in BackUp mode, only manual position fixing is available, but the observed position cannot be accepted for dead reckoning

Tip

Always add reference point names for subsequent analysis of observations.

Warning

To prevent navigational blunders, the **Pelorus** sensor or the **Radar** sensor must be configured.

4. Calculate the observed position

Press Calculate to calculate the observed position.

The observation will be plotted on the chart, and the results will be displayed in the Results window: observed coordinates and position discrepancy.

Observation calculation results

Element

Description

1

Position lines

Graphical display of position lines on the chart

2

Vessel track line

Display of the vessel track line up to the moment of observation

3

Vessel position by primary position source

Vessel position by the primary position source at the time of the manual observation (time of the last measurement)

4

Position from manual observation

Position obtained from the manual observation, indicating the method used

5

Observed position coordinates

Observed coordinates

6

Position discrepancy

Discrepancy from the position by the primary position source to the observed position

5. Accept the observation for dead reckoning

To accept the observation for dead reckoning, press Apply.

Confirm the selection in the dialog.

Apply observation confirmation dialog

The vessel position will be shifted to the observed coordinates. ECDIS will switch to dead reckoning mode.

Vessel position after accepting observation

Element

Description

1

Manual observation accepted for dead reckoning

Display of the observed position accepted for dead reckoning

2

Track line segment

Track line segment along which the vessel was proceeding before accepting the observation for dead reckoning

3

Vessel position transfer

Transfer of the vessel position to the track line calculated from the observed position accepted for dead reckoning

4

Current dead reckoning position

Current dead reckoning position of the vessel after accepting the observation

Viewing observations in the navigational log

The observation result is automatically recorded in the navigational log.

Viewing the navigational log:

MenuLogbookManual Observation

Viewing manual observations in the log

To view an observation in detail, double-click the selected record row.

Detailed observation view

Returning to GNSS position correction

To return to GNSS position correction, perform the following steps:

Menu path

MenuSettingsDR/Manual InputDead ReckoningOff

Important

When fixing the vessel position by astronomical methods, the observed coordinates are entered in the **Manual Input and Correction** section, or the position can be plotted using **Mariner’s Objects**.

Dead Reckoning

Dead Reckoningthe process of continuously and sequentially accounting for the elements of vessel movement — course and distance travelled — relative to an initial point, for the purpose of determining and predicting the vessel position at any given time.

Dead Reckoning is based on the continuous accounting of the direction and magnitude of vessel displacement over time.

Menu path

Dead reckoning

Transition to dead reckoning mode

ECDIS transitions to dead reckoning mode in the following cases:

  • Automatically when GNSS receiver data is unavailable

  • When an observation performed by manual methods is accepted for dead reckoning

DR mode operating features

ECDIS automatically switches to dead reckoning mode without applying set and drift — DR. Dead reckoning starts from the last valid position; COG/SOG calculation is discontinued.

If speed (STW) and/or heading (HDG) sensors are available, coordinates are calculated from compass and log data.

Important

When navigating by dead reckoning, errors accumulate. To correct the growing error, it is recommended to correct the coordinates using manual and other backup position-fixing methods.

DR/Manual Input window

Element

Description

1

Dead reckoning

Dead reckoning elements

2

Drift

Drift elements

3

Correction

Entry of permanent corrections to navigational parameters

DR/Manual Input window

Element

Description

1

Dead reckoning coordinates

Dead reckoning coordinates. When dead reckoning mode is off, data from the primary position sensor is fed to these fields. To shift the vessel position to entered coordinates (for example, after determining coordinates by astronomical methods) — press Apply

2

Apply

Applies the entered coordinates. Available when DR mode is on

3

Forced DR mode activation

Toggle for forced activation of dead reckoning mode

4

Go to Manual Observations

Go to Manual Observations for vessel position correction

5

Manual course input

Manual course input. When selector (6) is off, data from the heading sensor is fed to this field

6

Enable manual course input

Selector to enable manual course input

7

Manual speed input

Manual speed input. When selector (8) is off, data from the speed sensor is fed to this field

8

Enable manual speed input

Selector to enable manual speed through water input

DR/Manual Input window

Element

Description

9

Latitude correction

Enter latitude correction

10

Longitude correction

Enter longitude correction Position correction

11

Course correction

Enter course correction HDG correction

12

Speed correction

Enter speed correction STW correction

DR/Manual Input window

Element

Description

13

Set and drift speed

Set the set and drift speed

14

Set and drift direction

Set the set and drift direction. In ECDIS, the set and drift direction is directed from the compass

15

Set and drift timer

Set and drift timer. Maximum set and drift accounting time is 3 hours. The timer starts when selector (16) is enabled and when set and drift parameters are changed. 5 minutes before the set and drift accounting time expires, ECDIS displays a notification with a countdown: Set and drift timer warning When the set and drift accounting time expires, ECDIS discontinues set and drift accounting and generates a notification: Set and drift timer expired

16

Set and drift enable selector

Toggle to enable set and drift accounting

Simple dead reckoning mode

When ECDIS transitions to Dead Reckoning (DR) mode, the navigational indicator displays the data source — DR, and the values are highlighted in yellow.

Chart in dead reckoning mode without set and drift

Element

Description

1

Dead reckoning vessel position

Dead reckoning vessel position without set and drift; in dead reckoning mode, the coordinates field is orange

2

Vessel speed vector

Vessel speed vector

3

DR mode indicator

DR — indicator of dead reckoning mode without set and drift

Set and drift accounting

When set and drift accounting is enabled, ECDIS calculates the course over ground vector and the track line relative to the ground.

Chart in dead reckoning mode with set and drift

Element

Description

1

Dead reckoning vessel position with set and drift

Dead reckoning vessel position with set and drift; in dead reckoning mode, the coordinates field is orange

2

Position by alternative source

Position by an alternative coordinate source. For example, from a GNSS receiver

3

EP mode indicator

EP — indicator of dead reckoning mode with set and drift

4

Manual input indicator

MAN — indicator of manual course and speed input

5

Set and drift indication

Indication of set and drift direction and speed on the navigational panel

Manual Input, Position Correction, and Course/Speed Corrections (DR/Manual Input)

Manual Input and Position Correction is designed for manual entry of navigational data and input of permanent corrections to course and speed through water.

Menu path

MenuSettingsDR/Manual Input

Manual Input

Manual Input is designed for entering:

  • Coordinates (manual input or manual observations)

  • Course

  • Speed through water

Manual input window

When coordinates, course, or speed are entered manually, ECDIS uses the data entered by the navigating officer in calculations. Data entered by the navigating officer has a higher priority, so navigational sensor data is ignored.

Tip

Manual coordinate input is recommended for entering positions obtained by astronomical methods or from external sources.

Manual course and speed input is recommended when the data link is damaged, the sensor has failed, and course and speed are determined by other means.

In the navigational indicator, manually entered data is displayed in yellow, with the data source shown as MAN.

Data Correction

To compensate for a systematic error in the navigational data received by ECDIS, use permanent coordinate correction (LAT/LON).

When a systematic compass error (instantaneous or constant) is identified, it is recommended to use the course (Course) correction.

When a speed sensor output error is detected, it is recommended to use the speed (Speed) correction.

Entered corrections are automatically applied by ECDIS.

Correction values are displayed in the navigational indicator, to the right of the corrected parameter values.

Correction display in the navigational indicator

Element

Description

1

Compass correction

Display of the set course (compass) correction

2

Speed sensor correction

Display of the set speed correction

3

Latitude correction

Display of the set latitude correction

4

Longitude correction

Display of the set longitude correction

Important

ECDIS does not monitor the need to cancel coordinate, course, and speed corrections, due to the absence of comparison criteria.

ECDIS does not terminate coordinate, course, and speed corrections based on time.

The need to enable or disable coordinate, course, and speed corrections is determined only by the navigating officer, based on current conditions and circumstances.

Trip Distance

Option

The tool is designed for calculating the distance travelled by the vessel.

Menu path

MenuSettings → Trip distance

Note

The calculation is performed between adjacent positions using the direct geodetic problem for short distances.

Important

The tool is only available when the option is present.

Function description

The total distance travelled and the distance travelled per voyage, watch, or arbitrary time period are calculated simultaneously.

Trip

Element

Description

1

Trip distance

Distance travelled per voyage, watch, or arbitrary time period

2

Total distance

Total distance travelled

3

Threshold distance

Coordinate jitter — a distance equal to twice the vessel position fix error. Designed to prevent false counter triggering when moored or at anchor. When at anchor, it is recommended to set the value equal to the turning circle radius

4

Reset Trip

Reset the Trip distance counter (distance travelled per voyage, watch, or arbitrary time period)

5

Reset Total

Reset the Total distance counter. Reset is only available with elevated privileges

6

Service privileges

Obtain elevated privileges

Trip

Important

Distance travelled calculation algorithm:

  • the calculation is performed between two adjacent positions;

  • adjacent position: position from EFPS, manual observation, DR, EP;

  • the minimum distance between positions must exceed the set Threshold distance;

  • counter increments are calculated once every 30 seconds;

  • if the distance between positions is less than the Threshold distance, no increment is calculated.

Counter on the navigational panel

Trip panel

Element

Description

1

Counter

Trip distance / Total distance counter panel
Trip panel
The panel can be removed from the navigational panel if necessary

2

Trip panel

Opens the Trip distance window for counter management

Note

The counter is purely informational. Counter data is not documented.

Counter applications

  1. Total Distance: distance travelled per voyage, per year, or over the ECDIS service life

  2. Total Trip: distance travelled per voyage, per watch, per arbitrary time period, or through a particular area of water

Hint

The navigating officer may use the counter at their discretion. The use of counters is not regulated by any normative documents.