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OpenCPN
Sebastian Olias avatar
Written by Sebastian Olias
Updated over 4 months ago

OpenCPN, which stands for Open Chart Plotter Navigator, is open-source marine navigation software designed for sailors and boaters. It supports a variety of charts and navigation data formats and provides features such as route planning, waypoint management, AIS (Automatic Identification System) support, and more. This software is one of the few that is also available under Mac OS X.

OpenCPN is a versatile open-source software designed for marine navigation. It functions as a chart plotter, supporting various chart formats. Users can plan routes, set waypoints, integrate AIS for vessel information, interface with GPS devices, and even overlay weather data. The software's plugin system allows for additional functionality. Available on multiple operating systems, OpenCPN is a cost-effective solution for sailors and boaters, offering features comparable to commercial navigation software.

Developer

OS

Windows (7, 8, 10, 11),

Mac OS X 11 or higher

Linux

Version

v5.8.4 (15.06.2023)

Costs

Free, Donation possible to Support the project

Categories

Chart Plotter, Forwarder

Pro

  • easy configuration

Contra

Requirements

  • You can connect the receiver to your PC via USB or direct serial connection

  • You have identified the COM port assigned to the device on your computer

  • You have requested to share AIS data and have received the IP and port information

  • Your operating system is supported by this software

Configuration

Download OpenCPN here, install, and launch the software.

OpenCPN_5_8_4_2024-01-16.jpg

  • Access the configuration menu by clicking on the gearwheel icon in the menu bar on the left

Options_and_OpenCPN_5_8_4-0.jpg

Configure your AIS device as an input source by following these steps:

  • Navigate to the "Connections" section tab at the top of the interface

  • Choose "Serial" as connection type

  • Select as DataPort the correct COM port

  • The standard Baudrate is 38.400, but consult your AIS receiver manual to confirm

  • Utilize the "User Comment" field to name and better manage your devices

  • Once configurations are complete, click "Apply" to save the settings.

OpenCPN_Output_2024-01-16.jpg

To establish a new connection for sharing your data, click "Add Connection." Follow these steps and refer to the image below for guidance:

  • Select "Network" as the connection type

  • Choose the TCP or UDP protocol (both options are working)

  • Input the designated Address that you received for sharing data
    (IP 5.9.207.224 or DNS listener.marinetraffic.com)

  • add the corresponding DataPort (Port) that you received for sharing

  • Utilize the "User Comment" field to assign a name to the connection,
    facilitating easier management of connections

  • Ensure the checkbox labeled "Receive Input on this Port" is deactivated

  • Activate the checkbox labeled "Output on this port"

  • Once configurations are complete, click "Apply" to save the settings

OpenCPN_CheckReception_2024-01-16.jpg

Once you've finalized the configuration and confirmed with OK, vessels should become visible on the map. Ensure you zoom out adequately to have a clear view of the vessels.

Next, access your station on MarineTraffic to verify if the data is being received. Please allow a few minutes for the statistics to reflect a successful reception.

Links

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