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WatchMate® Integratation With NMEA Information
How Multiplexing merges output data
All WatchMate® and XB Transponders models provide NMEA multiplexing, which means the units merge both GPS and AIS data into a single output stream. These units also incorporate any NMEA 0183 instrument data supplied to it, such as from a heading sensor, into the output stream. Multiplexing allows for combining multiple sources of NMEA data into a single feed to the computer, chartplotter, or other devices, as shown in the diagram below.
Connecting a Chartplotter
If the vessel has a chartplotter that accepts AIS data, it can be hooked up directly to a WatchMate or XB Transponder, as shown in the diagram above.
Connecting the WatchMate to a computer
All WatchMate and XB Transponder models take the output and send it directly to the computer's serial port. If the charting or navigation software accepts AIS data, the computer will have the benefits of the WatchMate.
WatchMate 850, WatchMate Vision®, XB-6000, and XB-8000 can also plug directly into the computer's USB port, making interfacing even easier.