[CA] [CA11] E120 Seatalk1 to NMEA 2000 conversion requirements

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Q1. I've used the SEATALK DEVICES command multiple times - always get the same list and the GPS receiver never shows up. I'm attaching pctur of the GPS receiver - the name data in the little round circle on top is not legible but perhaps you can recognize it (looks like an RC120 based on literature I can find). It is connected to the Seatalk bus using a small junction box (Rectangular 3x2x1 box that doesn't seem to be a Raymarine product - no Raymarine label or part number.)
A1. If the junction box which you have referenced simply encloses a terminal strip, then the GPS sensor must be a GPS Sensor supporting SeaTalk communications protocol. However, if the junction box which you have referenced encloses a micro processor board, then the communications protocol supported by the GPS sensor would correspond to the type of communications terminals which the GPS sensors leads have been connected.

Q1) Can you ID the device based on the picture?
A1. Negative.

Q2) Can you ID the "unidentified device based on its bus ID?
A2. If not listed within the SeaTalk Devices list, then the only remaining means of identification would be to examine the decal on the lower shell (underside) of the GPS sensor.

Q3) Assuming this is an RC120 (or what ever product you can ID) does the preceding discussion regarding software upgrade apply? (IE - can I upgrade to the latest version of software without having to reconfigure the network?)
A3) Should the GPS sensor support SeaTalk communications, then no configuration changes all would need to be performed following the software update to support continued GPS communications. However, should the MFD's NMEA 0183 communications interface be wired to an AIS transceiver, then the MFD's NMEA 0183 Port must be configured to "AIS 38400". Should the MFD's NMEA 0183 communications interface not be wired to an AIS transceiver, then the MFD's NMEA 0183 Port may be configured to "NMEA 4800".