NMEA input to a78 MFD

[charlie98117]

I have a VHF that has an AIS receiver and I'm trying to figure out if there is a way to input that information to my a78 MFD. The a78 manual seems to tell me I can send NMEA data to my radio with a SeaTalk to NMEA converter but can not find info for how to receive NMEA output from an external source.

Does my MFD not have that capability?

[Mark - Raymarine - Moderator]

Hi Charlie98117,
Unfortunately the a78 MFD doesn't have a built in NMEA-0183 data port. The only way to either input or output NMEA-0183 data would be with the use of a converter.
Actisense sells a NMEA-0183 to STNG converter for this scenario.

[charlie98117]

Thanks for the response, that's what I found too after more searching. The converter is an expensive little device so the AIS info will be staying inside the VHF for the time being.

[Mark - Raymarine - Moderator]

Your'e welcome. Have a great day!