NOFIX from GPS through seatalk converter

[jeff.beller]

The setup is a legacy seatalk network with a C80 MFD, five ST60 instruments, and autopilot. Connected to this network through a seatalk to seatalkng converter was an RS-130 GPS. The only device connected to the converter is the GPS via a spur cable. The converter is powered directly with the standard red power cable and blanking plugs are installed in the backbone plugs. The yellow seatalk cable is connected to the legacy seatalk network with yellow and screen(ground) connected, but red(power) not connected.

We were getting intermittent NOFIX messages on the MFD. Eventually, we got continuous NOFIX. The diagnostic LED on the GPS showed continuous red/orange with only an occasional blink. On the advice of Raymarine support the GPS was replaced with a new RS-150 unit. Still nofix. The diagnostic on the RS-150 is two quick red flashes. It never finishes booting/acquiring. The two quick flashes continue indefinitely. Diagnostics on the converter are two long flashes followed by a few short flashes, then eventually it settles into continuous flashes of same length.

Things I have tried:

1. Replaced the spur cable to the GPS - no change.
2. Unplugged the yellow seatalk cable from the converter. Diagnostic lights on the converter change, but GPS still does not boot.
3. Checked voltages at seatalk converter - 13.4v
4. Checked voltages on red wire on seatalk network in several places - 13.4v
5. Checked voltages on yellow wire at several places - 12v alternating to 8-11v. Seatalk ST60 instruments appear to be communicating correctly.
6. Disconnected each of the components on the legacy seatalk network - no change.

What does the diagnostic of two quick red flashes on the RS-130 mean? It is not listed in the manual.

Could the seatalk converter be bad? and how to diagnose that?

Any other suggestions on troubleshooting this problem?

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Welcome to the Raymarine Forum Jeff,

The described method which you have used to interface the Raystar 150 GPS Sensor appears to be in conflict with that specified within this Forum's FAQs ... specifically powering the SeaTalk bus and SeaTalkng backbone ... click here to view the FAQ addressing this subject. Please additionally see the message sent to you.

[jeff.beller]

I have re-powered the networks on both sides of the converter to use a common power supply as we discussed. The symptoms remain the same. The GPS will not finish booting and acquire (two red flashes). The diagnostics on the converter are two long flashes followed by quicker flashes which, per manual, indicates seatalkng not connected or a fault.

What would be the next step in troubleshooting? swap out the converter?

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Jeff,

I would recommend testing the system with another ST-STng Converter which has been updated with current software.

[jeff.beller]

I replaced the ST-STng converter and that solved the problem. It now works with the original GPS no problem.

Thanks.

[Chuck - Raymarine - Moderator]

Jeff,

Thanks for following up.