HIGHLANDER ECDIS

Complete Technical Guide for Electronic Marine Navigation Systems

Product Identification

The HIGHLANDER ECDIS is a professional marine navigation workstation designed to provide navigators with a complete electronic chart-based navigation platform. The system integrates real-time vessel position data, route planning functions, radar overlays, AIS targets, navigational alarms, and voyage monitoring into a single user-friendly interface.

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Product Introduction

As paper charts continue to be replaced by digital navigation systems, ECDIS has become one of the most important navigation tools aboard modern vessels.

The HIGHLANDER ECDIS system shown in the image consists of:

• Marine Industrial Computer
• ECDIS Software Platform
• Dedicated Marine Keyboard
• Trackball Navigation Controller
• High-Resolution Marine Display
• Navigation Interface Modules

This configuration enables safe and efficient voyage planning and monitoring while complying with international maritime regulations.

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Main Product Image

The HIGHLANDER ECDIS workstation provides navigators with continuous access to vessel position, electronic charts, route information, and integrated navigation sensor data.

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What Is an ECDIS?

ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) is an IMO-approved navigation system capable of replacing traditional paper nautical charts when used with officially approved ENC charts.

The system continuously receives information from onboard navigation sensors including:

• GPS / GNSS Receiver
• Gyro Compass
• Doppler Speed Log
• AIS Transponder
• Radar Systems
• Echo Sounder
• Autopilot
• Voyage Data Recorder (VDR)

By combining all these inputs, ECDIS provides navigators with real-time situational awareness.

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Typical ECDIS Bridge Installation

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Main Features

Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) Support

Displays official digital nautical charts approved by hydrographic authorities.

Route Planning

Allows navigators to create complete voyage plans including:

• Waypoints
• Courses
• Safety Margins
• Turning Circles
• Restricted Areas

Route Monitoring

Monitors vessel movement against the planned route and generates alarms when deviations occur.

AIS Integration

Displays nearby vessel traffic directly on the electronic chart.

Radar Overlay

Combines radar echoes with chart information for improved navigation safety.

Automatic Alarms

Provides alarms for:

• Cross Track Error (XTE)
• Safety Contour Violations
• Grounding Risks
• Route Deviations
• AIS Collision Risks
• Sensor Failures

Multi-Sensor Integration

Interfaces with:

• GPS
• AIS
• Radar
• Gyro Compass
• Speed Log
• Echo Sounder
• Autopilot

Voyage Recording

Stores voyage plans and navigational records for future reference.

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Control Keyboard & Trackball System

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Main Components

1. ECDIS Processing Unit

Industrial computer responsible for chart rendering and sensor integration.

Functions

• Chart Processing
• Route Management
• Alarm Generation
• Data Storage

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2. Marine Display Unit

Provides chart visualization and navigation information.

Functions

• Chart Display
• AIS Monitoring
• Route Tracking
• Alarm Presentation

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3. Marine Keyboard

Specialized keyboard for navigation operations.

Functions

• Route Planning
• Menu Navigation
• Chart Control

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4. Trackball Controller

Used for rapid chart manipulation and waypoint management.

Functions

• Cursor Control
• Chart Zooming
• Route Editing

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5. Navigation Interfaces

Communication modules connecting external sensors.

Supports

• GPS
• AIS
• Radar
• Gyro
• Speed Log
• VDR

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System Architecture

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Marine Applications

The HIGHLANDER ECDIS is widely used aboard:

Container Ships

Supports long-distance route planning and voyage monitoring.

Oil Tankers

Provides enhanced navigational safety in restricted waters.

Bulk Carriers

Improves voyage efficiency and route management.

Passenger Vessels

Supports safe navigation in congested traffic areas.

Offshore Support Vessels

Provides accurate route monitoring during offshore operations.

Naval Vessels

Used for tactical navigation and mission planning.

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Common Problems & Troubleshooting

1. GPS Signal Lost

Symptoms

• Position unavailable
• Vessel icon disappears

Causes

• GPS antenna fault
• Receiver malfunction
• Communication failure

Solution

• Check GPS status
• Verify antenna connections
• Inspect interface cables

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2. AIS Targets Not Displayed

Causes

• AIS communication loss
• Incorrect port configuration

Solution

• Verify AIS input settings
• Check communication interfaces

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3. Chart Database Error

Symptoms

• Charts fail to load
• Missing chart areas

Causes

• Corrupted chart files
• License problems

Solution

• Reinstall ENC database
• Verify chart licenses

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4. Radar Overlay Failure

Causes

• Radar communication fault
• Network interruption

Solution

• Verify radar interface settings
• Check network communication

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5. Continuous Navigation Alarms

Causes

• Incorrect safety contour settings
• Route planning errors
• Sensor discrepancies

Solution

• Review alarm details
• Verify navigation settings
• Check sensor inputs

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Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance ensures reliable ECDIS performance.

Daily Checks

• Verify GPS position
• Check chart display
• Review active alarms
• Confirm AIS operation

Weekly Checks

• Backup voyage plans
• Verify system logs
• Inspect communication status

Monthly Checks

• Test alarm functions
• Verify sensor integration
• Review chart database status

Chart Maintenance

• Install ENC updates regularly
• Verify chart licenses
• Maintain chart correction records

Hardware Maintenance

• Clean display surfaces
• Inspect cooling systems
• Check keyboard and trackball functionality
• Verify cable connections

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Why Ships Still Depend on ECDIS

ECDIS remains a critical navigation system because it provides:

Enhanced Situational Awareness

Integrates multiple navigation systems into a single display.

Regulatory Compliance

Meets SOLAS and IMO navigation requirements.

Safer Voyage Planning

Reduces navigation risks through route analysis.

Efficient Navigation

Improves route optimization and operational efficiency.

Electronic Chart Management

Eliminates dependence on large paper chart inventories.

Collision Avoidance Support

Combines AIS and radar information with chart data.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the purpose of the HIGHLANDER ECDIS?

To provide electronic chart navigation, route planning, route monitoring, and integrated bridge navigation functions.

Can it replace paper charts?

Yes, when used with approved ENC charts and operated according to IMO regulations.

Does it support AIS integration?

Yes. AIS targets can be displayed directly on electronic charts.

Can radar images be displayed on charts?

Yes. Radar overlay functionality is available when properly interfaced.

What navigation sensors are required?

Typically:

• GPS
• Gyro Compass
• Speed Log

Additional integration with AIS and Radar improves functionality.

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Short Product Description

The HIGHLANDER ECDIS is a professional Electronic Chart Display and Information System designed for modern commercial vessels. Featuring ENC chart support, route planning, AIS integration, radar overlays, navigational alarms, and advanced sensor connectivity, it provides navigators with a complete and reliable electronic navigation solution.

SM MARINE SERVICE™

Marine Automation & Navigation Equipment Supplier

Available Condition:

• New Equipment • Used Equipment • Refurbished Equipment • Reconditioned Equipment

Stock Location:

• Bangladesh • China

Services:

• Worldwide Shipping • Technical Support • Spare Parts Supply • Marine Equipment Sourcing

Contact Information

SM MARINE SERVICE™
Samir Market, DT Road, Pahartali, beside CDA Market, Chattogram, Bangladesh

Mobile / WhatsApp / Viber: +88 01818 929292

Email: info@smmarineservice.com

Website: www.smmarineservice.com
 

User Manual & Technical Resources
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