Introduction OpenPlotter has many excellent features that we explored in previous posts (Ref.3-Ref.9). Weather information is critical for sailors and OpenPlotter features a GRIB file viewer as well as the ability to overlay this information on OpenCPN. The weather information is contained in GRIB files that can be downloaded over an internet connection either from […]
Introduction In a previous post (Ref.1) we examined how to connect and detect a sensor module such as the GY-91 which is referenced in OpenPlotter documentation. This module has two ICs: an MPU-9250 motion detector IC and a BMP280 pressure/temperature IC. This gives us 11 variables: 3 x accelerometer, 3 x gyroscope, 3 x Magnetometer, […]
Introduction AIS Automatic Identification System for Ships is a traffic system that uses VHF transponders on vessels to periodically send out location information. It was developed by Swedish inventor Hakan Lans and is similar in concept to the ADS-B transponder system used on aircraft for position reporting. AIS uses two VHF marine channels 87B (161.975 MHz) […]
Introduction In previous posts we examined how to install OpenPlotter (Ref.1), how to connect a GPS receiver (Ref.2), how to connect AIS (Ref.3), how to receive VHF (Ref.4) and how to install a Sensor Board (Ref.5) In this post we tie it together and see how it all functions down at Toronto Harbourfront. OpenCPN Display […]
Introduction Recently I read several posts on various amateur radio forums regarding the reception of Shortwave Radiogram broadcasts. VOA Radiogram was a Voice of America program that experimented with various digital transmission modes, starting in March 2013. It was superseded by Shortwave Radiogram (Ref.1). I decided I would try reception using the very popular RTL-SDR […]