Opencpn

[idpnd]

I'm surprised OpenCPN has not had any mentions here - it's a free of charge, free software navigation system that is under development but apparently fully usable. Features of the most recent version, 1.3.0, include CM93 vector charts, AIS support and runs on Windows, Mac and Linux. Development is ongoing, and any feedback or contributions on sourceforge would be appreciated!

http://sourceforge.net/projects/opencpn - OpenCPN project page at Sourceforge

http://bigdumboat.com/cpnindex.html - Lead developer's homepage

Enjoy!!

[idpnd]

Opencpn Version 1.3.4 was released on 30 September, 2009.

This is a maintenance release containing the following enhancements:

1. Ship's position tracking function, with GPX export and import.

2. Enhanced icons and screen graphics, for improved visibility.

3. Import and export of Routes using GPX interface protocol.

4. Implement CM93 vector chart detail control slider.

5. Assorted usability and reliability improvements.

See the Changelog for full details.

Opencpn Version 1.3.4 may be downloaded from the following link:

https://sourceforge.net/projects/opencpn/

Thank you for your continued interest in opencpn.

Fair winds to all

Dave and the opencpn development team

Version 1.34 has been released at sourceforge - Enjoy!

[MMNETSEA]

A little clarification would be useful :-

Is the latest version still BETA ?

What is GPX ?

What is GPS/GPDS Postition Input ?

[idpnd]

Originally Posted by MMNETSEA

Is the latest version still BETA ?

What is GPX ?

What is GPS/GPDS Postition Input ?

Hello,

the lead developer has still designated the project as "beta" at sourceforge, but this is a "stable release". In free software projects, there isn't really an end to the development process, although most programmes are designated "stable/production use" at some stage (this is rather arbitrary); it is however in use on board various vessels (including mine).

Gpx refers to the GPS eXchange format, an open standard "XML schema designed for describing GPS data between software applications"; this is also used for feeding data to an autopilot or handheld gps units in this case.

Gps position input probably refers to the simple gathering of gps position data from an NMEA input; gpsd, on the other hand, is a piece of software for distributing and sharing gps NMEA data on a given network/system; this can be used for drawing gps data from an AIS gps feed whilst still feeding the AIS software.

Thanks for your attention.

[GoneTroppo]

Hi All,

I used this program in conjunction with my normal nav program in this years cruising from Turkey to Portugal. Love the concept and found OpenCPN performed well. My main problem was trying to get used to the colours, I am used to land being displayed as yellow, otherwise it was easy to use. Love being offered a choice of charts for the location I am in.

I would like to give the developers a BIG THANKYOU.

Regards,

Stephen

[idpnd]

Originally Posted by GoneTroppo

Hi All,

I used this program in conjunction with my normal nav program in this years cruising from Turkey to Portugal. Love the concept and found OpenCPN performed well. My main problem was trying to get used to the colours, I am used to land being displayed as yellow, otherwise it was easy to use. Love being offered a choice of charts for the location I am in.

I would like to give the developers a BIG THANKYOU.

Regards,

Stephen

I am sure the developer(s) would be rather pleased to hear any thanks and/or feedback over at sourceforge.

[redbopeep]

I finally got around to installing OpenCPN and must admit it works wonderfully with both ENC and Rastor NOAA charts. Nice!

[Boomerang]

Downloaded a couple of weeks ago, and find it quite useful. With access to most chart types that we would use, tide and current info, it is one of the better ones I have used. Easy to interface to most systems, but there seems to be issue with Simrad Nav equipment and I cannot find anything to help me with manually setting up the SimNet to use it (although, I havde not tried that hard, so if someone has advice...). Only complaint I have. Also use Mapquest's Offshore Navigator, and it works great with the SimNet.....

All in all, to have two separate systems, in my not so humble opinion, is better anyway.