958 INTEGRATED NAVIGATION SYSTEM
INSTALLATION MANUAL
Northstar Technologies
30 Sudbury Road
Acton, Massachusetts 01720
800/628-4487
978/897-6600
Part Number GM958IM Revision A1
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Contents
SECTION ONE: Introducing the 958 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Checking the 958 package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 958 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Bench-testing the 958 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Mounting the 958 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Wiring the 958 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Checking the 2201 and 2301 parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Mounting and wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
SECTION FOUR: Installing and wiring the 2701 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Installing the AN205-P antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Connecting the 958 to a video camera . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Getting technical support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
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SECTION ONE: Introducing the
958
Checking the 958 package
The Northstar 958 is a full-featured color GPS navigation system that you can connect to a wide
variety of optional equipment, including the Northstar 490 echo sounder; Northstar radar; and VGA
output equipment, such as the Northstar 1201 remote display. Other optional interfaces include any
NTSC-compatible video input equipment, such as a video camera, TV, DVD, or VHS, and the optional
Northstar 2701 DGPS/WAAS receiver (instead of the 2201 or 2301) for WAAS/GPS/radiobeacon
differential. For installation instructions for the Northstar 490 or Northstar radars, see the Northstar
490 Installation Manual (P/N GM491) or the Northstar Radar Installation Manual (P/N GMKRadIM).
Table 1: 958 parts list
Part name
Part number
Qty
958 unit
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
3
1
flush-mount hardware kit
flush-mount gasket
957PK
HG366
10-foot interface cable
WA215
10-foot power cable with 10-amp fuse
sunshield
WA535-D
XP600
warranty registration card
Northstar 958 Installation Manual
Northstar 958 Flush-Mounting Template
Northstar 958 Operator’s Manual
WAAS/GPS antenna
GD671
GM958IM
GT958
GM958UM
2201 or 2301
958POD-CA
HS520
50-foot data/power cable
10-32 UNF mounting screws (2201-only)
washers (2201-only) for deck mounting
cable heat shrink
HW500
HM1005
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION ONE: Introducing the 958
Table 1: 958 parts list
Part name
Part number
Qty
cable heat shrink
HM509
1
1
1
6-pin cable connector for AUX port
beacon receiver, including:
KS672
2701 (optional)
GPS/DGPS antenna
50-foot AN205-P antenna cable
10-foot pre-finished data/power cable
AN205-P
WC-256
958BDM-CA
1
1
1
958 yoke-mount kit
601 YOKE-IK (optional)
958RC (optional)
1
1
remote control and batteries
Page 2
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SECTION TWO: Installing and
wiring the 958
Before starting the installation, be sure to turn power off. Further,
Northstar highly recommends keeping power off while you’re installing
the system. If power is left on or turned on during the installation, fire,
electrical shock, or other serious injury may occur. Be sure that the
voltage of the power supply is compatible with the 958’s voltage rating
of 10 to 36 volts DC. Connecting to the wrong power supply can cause
fire or damage to the equipment. Be sure to ground the equipment to
prevent electrical shock and mutual interference. Be sure to use the
proper fuse. Using the wrong fuse can cause fire or damage to the 958.
WARNING!
Bench-testing the 958
Northstar recommends bench-testing the 958 before installing it onto the vessel. Bench testing
ensures that the equipment is fully operational, and lets the 2201/2301 antenna or 2701 beacon
receiver collect the current almanac and ephemeris data for the installed location, which results in
less on-board installation time.
Mounting the 958
Proper installation of the Northstar 958 is critical to accurately receive
and effectively use GPS/WAAS signals under a wide variety of weather
conditions.
CAUTION!
Keep the following safe compass distance from the 958: 1.0m
standard, 0.8m steering.
Choosing the best 958 location
Choose the mounting location carefully—before you drill or cut. The display screen is high-contrast
and anti-reflective, and is viewable in direct sunlight, but for best results, install the 958 out of direct
sunlight. See the figure below for additional mounting recommendations.
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
Page 3
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SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 958
Regardless of the type of mounting, the 958 should be installed in an accessible location
(dry) where the operator can easily use the controls and clearly see the display
screen. Be sure to leave a direct path for all of the cables.
Regardless of the type of mounting, the location should have minimal
glare from windows or bright objects. If the 958 is
yoke-mounted low, tilt the
958 back for best
viewing contrast.
Figure 1: Mounting recommendations
Page 4
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SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 958
Flush-mounting the 958
When flush mounting, leave at least two and a half inches of clearance space behind the
mounting panel for all of the cables and connectors. Flush mounting requires good ventilation
behind the mounting panel. Poor ventilation will cause the 958 to overheat, which, in turn, may
cause the display screen to darken. For overall width and height requirements, see the Northstar 958
Flush-Mounting Template (P/N GT958), which you can use to drill the mounting holes and cut the
mounting panel in the exact recommended locations.
When flush mounting, be sure to mount the 958 on a flat surface.
Mounting on a curved surface can break or distort the plastic and
break the waterproof seal. Do not overtighten the mounting screws;
you may damage the case and compromise its waterproof seal. This
type of physical damage will void the warranty.
CAUTION!
Yoke-mounting the 958
6.1”
1.9”
12.4”
2.3”
2.5
8.2”
Figure 2: 958 yoke-mount dimensions (side)
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
Page 5
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SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 958
13.5”
12.4”
11.6”
Figure 3: 958 yoke-mount dimensions (front)
Wiring the 958
Avoiding cable wiring shortcuts
Most installation problems are caused by shortcuts taken with system cables. When wiring the 958,
DON’T DO THIS!
Don’t run cables in
Don’t make sharp bends in the cables
a way that allows water to flow down
Figure 4: Incorrect cable wiring
Page 6
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SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 958
.
DO THIS!
• Do make drip and service loops
• Do tie-wrap all cables to keep them
secure
• If cables are shortened,
lengthened, or re-terminated, do
seal and protect all wiring
connections
• Do leave room at the back to
service the 958
Figure 5: Correct cable wiring
Understanding the interface connectors
All of the 958’s interface connectors are shown in Figure 6: ”Interface connectors (back of 958),”
VGA connector
AUX connector
NMEA connector
VIDEO connector
GPS connector
Power connector
Figure 6: Interface connectors (back of 958)
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 958
TABLE 2: In t e r f a c e c o n n e c t o r f u n c t i o n s
Connector name
Connector function(s)
Connects to...
NMEA (NMEA I/O)
(18-pin port)
NMEA 1 input/output --------------> NMEA devices: radar, autopilot, etc.
NMEA 2 input/output --------------> Same as NMEA 1
Honk alarm/200 ppnm ------------> Remote honk alarm (or speed indicator)
GPS (Antenna)
(7-pin RS232 port)
GPS/WAAS input/output ---------> 2201 or 2301 GPS antenna
- or -
Beacon input/output -------------->
Northstar 2701 beacon receiver (optional)
AUX (Auxiliary)
(6-pin auxiliary NMEA
port)
RS-422/NMEA input/output -----> Northstar 490 echo sounder (optional)
- or -
A second 958 (or to a Northstar 957/952/
951/941) to transfer waypoints and routes
PWR (Power)
Power
10 to 36 VDC, 50 watts
Remote display
VGA (15-pin port)
VIDEO (coaxial)
Video output
Video input
Any NTSC-compatible device
Electrical power requirements
Power source
The 958 is a negative-ground system that’s reverse-polarity protected. Power requirement is 10 VDC
minimum to 36 VDC maximum with at least 16-gauge connecting wire.
As a good safety practice, Northstar strongly recommends
that you connect the 958 to a circuit breaker or 20-amp fuse
at the power source (battery).
CAUTION!
Connecting the 958 to ship’s power
The 958 ships with a 10-foot power cable that you can lengthen to a maximum of 25 feet:
• for a cable length up to 15 feet, the power connections must use 16-gauge
connecting wire or heavier
• for a cable length from 15 to 25 feet, use 14-gauge connecting wire or heavier
Page 8
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SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 958
If you lengthen the power cable, use an external fuse at the battery end as an added safety
precaution. The fuse size should match the size of the wiring on the vessel. See the NMEA or
American Boating and Yachting Counsel specifications to find the correct fuse for your cable.
For the best protection from noise, connect the power cable directly to the battery or dedicated
electronics buss. The green ground wire should be connected to ship’s ground directly. The power
cable has an inline fuse to protect the vessel’s wiring, and prevent electrical fires and damage to the
958. If you shorten this cable, be sure to keep the inline fuse intact. The wires in the power cable
must be connected as follows.
• red → positive(+)
• black → negative(–)
• green → ship’s ground
Ground the 958 to the vessel to eliminate interference. Without an
earth grounding, performance may be reduced. Secure the green wire
to the vessel’s nearest grounding point. If a noise-free earth grounding
point isn’t available, cap and insulate the green wire—it shouldn’t be
used when an earth ground isn’t available, or with systems using
“floating” grounds.
NOTE:
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 958
Page 10
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SECTION THREE: Installing and
wiring the 2201 or 2301
Checking the 2201 and 2301 parts
Northstar 2201
Northstar 2301
3 mounting screws
and 3 washers (2201
only)
50-foot cable with two finished
waterproof 7-pin connectors
Figure 7: 2201 and 2301 components
You can shorten the cable, but do not lengthen it. The cable must
be a maximum of 50 feet.
NOTE:
Do not open the 2201: There aren’t any serviceable parts inside.
Unauthorized tampering will automatically void the warranty.
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the 2201 or 2301
Mounting and wiring
Choosing the best mounting location
Before you drill or cut, choose a mounting location that meets the following criteria. The 2201 and
2301 should be mounted:
• where there’s enough mounting clearance to easily connect the cable.
• low on the vessel, since side-to-side motion caused by the vessel’s rolling can
degrade speed-over-ground (SOG) and course-over-ground (COG) readings.
• below the radiation plane of any INMARSAT or radar antennas, and away from any
• high enough to provide an unblocked view of the sky in all directions, and that
minimizes or eliminates any objects that block the 2201 and 2301’s view of the sky
(the 2201 and 2301 use satellites down to zero degrees elevation or to the horizon).
• away from masts or objects that could “shadow” the 2201/2301, but where there’s
an adequate view of the sky.
Before permanently installing the 2201 or 2301, try temporarily installing it
and using the 958 to see if the location works well.
NOTE:
The 2201 and 2301 are installed differently. The 2201 is mounted directly
onto a standard antenna mount, and its cable is routed entirely on the
outside from the external connector to the connector on the 958. The
2301 uses a mount with an extension, and the cable is routed through the
inside of the extension.
To avoid mutual interference among different antennas on the vessel, see the recommendations in
from other antennas and physical mounting surfaces. Normally, these guidelines produce a relatively
trouble-free installation; however, since every installation is unique, you may want to adjust these
distances to the particular equipment.
Page 12
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SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the 2201 or2301
Figure 8: Recommended separation distances between antennas
Mounting and wiring the 2201
To mount the 2201 onto a deck or any other flat surface:
1. Using the three screws and washers provided, mount the 2201 onto the flat surface
using three holes on a 1.75-inch diameter circle (see Figure9 below).
φ1.750
1.00 -14UNS-2Bx 1.00 deep.
3x 3/16” - 32UNF - 2B x .48
deep. Mounting holes
equally spaced around a
1.75” diameter circle.
Connector receptacle with 7
male contacts. Mating:
Switchcraft EN3C7FC or
equivalent.
Figure 9: Mounting the 2201 on a flat surface (viewed from below)
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the 2201 or 2301
2. Make sure the 2201 has enough clearance for you to easily connect the cable. For
example, mount the 2201 on the edge of the deck, or drill a small hole in the deck
or other surface to allow the cable to pass through.
To mount the 2201 on a standard antenna mount:
1. Using the 1”x 14 marine-industry standard UNS thread mounting, install the base
of the 2201 onto a standard antenna mount. Do not overtighten or you may
damage the housing!
4.50” (114mm)
Figure 10: Using a standard antenna mount
2. To avoid stressing the 2201’s connector with the weight of the cable, use a tie-wrap
or similar near the 2201 to hold the cable’s weight.
3. Plug the 2201 end of the cable into the 2201, and the 958 end into the connector
labelled “GPS.” Coil any extra cable away from the 2201. Don’t pinch the cable or
make any sharp bends. Don’t run the cable where it interferes with any controls.
Page 14
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SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the 2201 or2301
Mounting and wiring the 2301
The 2301 is mounted onto a standard antenna mount. To complete this installation, you’ll also need
a standard antenna mount, mounting extension, and mounting adapter.
To install the 2301:
1. Install a 1” x 14 UNF thread
7
antenna mount in the desired
location.
2. Screw a mounting extension
6
onto the antenna mount.
3. Feed the 2301 cable through the
hole in the mounting extension,
bringing cable up through the
5
hollow core of the extension and
out the top.
4. Screw a mounting adapter onto
the extension, bringing cable up
through hollow core of the
adapter and out the top.
5. Screw the 2301’s bottom half
(base) onto mounting adapter.
4
3
6. Plug the cable’s connector into
connector on the 2301’s base.
7. Place the 2301’s top half
(antenna) onto base.
2
8. Align top half of the 2301 with
the base, and tighten with four
supplied screws. Do not over-
tighten the screws or you may
damage the housing. Use a
1
tie-wrap or similar near the 2301
to hold the cable and help avoid
stressing the 2301’s connector
with the cable’s weight. Coil any
extra cable away from the 2301.
Don’t pinch the cable or make
any sharp bends. Don’t run the
cable where it interferes with any
controls.
1. Antenna mount
2. Mounting extension
3. Hole in mounting extension
4. Mounting adapter
5. Base of 2301
6. 2301 connector
7. Top of 2301 (antenna)
9. Plug the 958 end of the cable
into the connector labelled
“GPS.”
5
Figure 11: Mounting the 2301 on an antenna mount
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SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the 2201 or 2301
Re-fabricating the 958 connector
If you ever want to shorten the antenna cable, or remove its connector to make more room to run
the cabling, you can remove the connector from the 958 end and then replace it:
1. After shortening or snaking the cable, slide the available heat shrink tubing onto
the cable, then slide the connector backshell onto the cable, as shown below.
2. Prepare each wire for insertion into its solder cup by stripping it and tinning it.
4. Slide the backshell down the cable and screw it onto the connector body. It should
be hand tight.
5. Using the supplied screws, screw the strain relief onto the backshell.
6. Slide the heat shrink tubing onto the connector. Be sure to leave room for the
locking collar to retract.
7. Heat the shrink tubing until it shrinks around the connector, providing a
watertight seal.
TABLE 3: Wiring connections for 2201/2301 cable
Description
Wire color
Blue
Pin
1
RS232 RX1 (Main receive port)
RS232 RX2 (Aux receive port)
RS232 TX1 (Main transmit port)
Signal gnd
Orange
Green
2
3
Brown
Black
4
Remote power-on
5
Ship’s power control
Power gnd
(system gnd)
White
Red
6
7
Power in (9-36 VDC)
Page 16
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SECTION FOUR: Installing and
wiring the 2701
Do not open the 2701: There aren’t any serviceable parts inside.
Unauthorized tampering will automatically void the warranty.
CAUTION!
Mounting and wiring the 2701
Choosing the best 2701 mounting location
The 2701 is housed in a rugged aluminum enclosure with a mounting flange, gaskets, and watertight
connectors. Though designed to withstand the marine environment, the unit is not completely
waterproof; protect it by installing it where water won’t contact it directly or enter it through data/
power or antenna cables.
Mounting and wiring the 2701
You can mount the 2701 either horizontally or vertically using the appropriate mounting holes; see
Figure 12 on the next page.
Keyhole slots at the rear will help if you’re installing the 2701 where access is limited and it’s hard to
start the mounting screws at the obstructed end. Securely tighten all mounting screws to avoid
vibration-related problems.
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION FOUR: Installing and wiring the 2701
Figure 12: 2701 case and mounting dimensions
Connecting the 2701 to the 958
The pre-finished 958BDM-CA cable connects the 958 with the 2701. Plug the cable’s 25-pin
connector into the 2701 and the 7-pin connector into the 958 connector labelled “GPS.” If you must
remove one of the connectors, re-fabricate the cable using the wiring connections described below.
TABLE 4: Wiring connections for 2701 cable
958 connector (7-pin)
2701 connector (25-pin)
Function
1
7
GPS RX1 (Blue)
BDM RX1 (Orange)
GPS TX1 (Green)
BDM TX1 (Brown)
Power CTL (Black or Gray)
GND (White)
2
21
3
6
4
20
5
12
6
13
7
25
Power + (Red)
Drain Wire
6
NC
KS131
NC
Foil Shield
Page 18
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SECTION FOUR: Installing and wiring the2701
Installing the AN205-P antenna
Choosing the best antenna mounting location
The 2701 operates with Northstar’s AN205-P “combo” GPS/DGPS antenna. For mounting
Before permanently installing the AN205-P, try temporarily
installing it and using the 958 to see if the antenna location
works well.
NOTE:
Don’t mount the antenna near rotating warning beacons or
strobe lights, electric motors, fluorescent lights, or other RF
sources. These can create RF interference to the differential
reception.
CAUTION!
If position data is intermittent, make sure you have the proper cable length, and check the quality of
the antenna location and the quality and proper termination of the connectors. Also, make sure that
the 2701’s ground lug terminal is securely connected with a heavy gauge conductor to ship’s ground.
ꢀꢁꢂꢂ
ꢃꢁꢄ
Use the locking nut shown to prevent
rotation of the antenna or bottoming
ꢀꢁꢂ
out of the mounting stanchion into the
threaded mount portion of the antenna.
If done with enough force, either of
these may break the antenna.
ꢅꢁꢄ
Figure 13: Northstar AN205-P antenna dimensions
Connecting the 2701 to the antenna
The 50-foot antenna cable connects the 2701 with the AN205-P antenna. The cable length must be a
maximum of 50 feet, but can be shortened to the desired length. Don’t make any tight bends in the
cable, and fasten it along its length to avoid chafing or whipping or any kind. Coil up any unused
length of cable. Be sure that the cable connectors are securely fastened. NOTE: Installations that
require a cable length from 50 to 100 feet should order the AN206 combo antenna and a 100-foot
length of coaxial cable from the Northstar Sales Department.
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION FOUR: Installing and wiring the 2701
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SECTION FIVE: Checking out the
system
Turning the 958 on and off
To turn on the 958, briefly press the PWR key. The 958 emits several short beeps as it displays the
START-UP screen, then performs a series of self-tests to check its critical components and functions.
Next, a message is shown as a reminder against relying on the 958’s chart cartography as the only
means of safe navigation.
To see DGPS status, on the GPS POSITION screen, press DGPS INFO to display the DGPS STATUS
screen. Check for low noise levels and mid-range SNR readings.
To see information about signals from the satellites, press SAT INFO.
GPS
satellite
number
36
WAAS
satellite
number
Figure 14: Satellites on the GPS satellites screen
The satellite map on the GPS SATELLITES screen shows the current location of the satellites in the
sky. The 958 displays GPS satellites as circles; WAAS satellites as hexagons. You can check the
quality of their signals by looking at each satellite’s Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The higher the ratio,
the better the quality.
Although the U.S. government identifies WAAS satellites by their pseudo random number (PRN)—a
three-digit number ranging from 120 to 138—the 958 identifies them by two-digit numbers ranging
from 33 to 51. For example, the satellite for the Atlantic Operating Region (AOR) is PRN 122, which
displayed on the 958’s screen.
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SECTION FIVE: Checking out the system
TABLE 5: Satellite identification numbers
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
42
PRN
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
ON GPS
SATS
SCREEN
130
43
131
44
132
45
133
46
134
47
135
48
136
49
137
50
138
51
PRN
ON GPS
SATS
SCREEN
Selecting differential options
The 958 has several settings for differential reception. To select one, press the STAR key to display
the OPTIONS/SERVICE INFO screen, then press the RECEIVER OPTIONS key to display the RECEIVER
OPTIONS screen. The DIFFERENTIAL OPERATIONS field offers the following options (depending on
the equipment connected to the 958):
• DISABLED - to turn off all differential corrections
• RADIO BEACON - to force radiobeacon differential if the 958 is connected to a
radiobeacon source (for example, the 2701)
• WAAS - to force WAAS differential corrections if the 958 is connected to a
WAAS-capable unit (for example, the 2201, 2301, or 2701)
• AUTO - (the default setting) to prefer WAAS differential corrections, but if the 958 is
connected to the optional 2701, the 958 will automatically switch to radiobeacon
corrections if and when WAAS becomes unavailable or is less accurate than
radiobeacon
Installation-test checklist
To check-out the 958 system after installation:
1. Turn on the 958, then check for the presence of GPS, WAAS, or DGPS signals.
2. Review the functions: With a chart cartridge inserted, check that the CHART screen
is displayed.
3. Confirm that the DIFFERENTIAL OPERATIONS option is at the desired setting. If
not, press the STAR key to display the OPTIONS/SERVICE INFO screen, then press
the RECEIVER OPTIONS menu key to display the RECEIVER OPTIONS screen.
Press the EDIT key, change it to the desired setting, then press the ENTER key.
Page 22
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the
958 system
Wiring the connector pins
TABLE 6: NMEA connector pins
Wire color
Description
Pin
3
NMEA port 1 input A
NMEA port 1 input B
NMEA port 1 input ground
NMEA port 1 output A
NMEA port 1 output B
NMEA port 1 output ground
NMEA port 2 input A
NMEA port 2 input B
NMEA port 2 input ground
NMEA port 2 output A
NMEA port 2 output B
NMEA port 2 output ground
RS-232 ground
brown
blue
1
white with blue stripe
4
violet
12
7
gray
blue with white stripe
8
white with brown stripe
6
brown with white stripe
2
white
5
yellow
15
11
10
17
16
18
9
orange
black
tan
RS-232 RX
green
RS-232 TX
red
External ground/foil drain
Reserved
white with orange shield
orange with white stripe
pink
13
14
Honk out/200 PPNM (pulses
per nautical mile)
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
Figure 15: NMEA connector pin configuration
TABLE 7: Aux connector pins
Description
Wire color Pin
Shield/Gnd
brown
green
white
black
orange
violet
blue
1*
1*
2
Remote On Gnd
Remote On
NMEA AUX In (B)
NMEA AUX Out (B)
NMEA AUX Out (A)
NMEA AUX In (A)
3
4
5
6
* Pin 1 on the AUX port requires two connections from the
cable.
The red wire is not connected on the 958 end, and should be
insulated and capped.
Configuring the NMEA output ports
You can set each output port to meet the requirements of devices that conform to the NMEA 0183 or
other data-format specifications: Press STAR to display the OPTIONS/SERVICE INFO screen, then
press PORT SETUP OPTIONS to display the PORT SETUP OPTIONS screen. Press PORT 1 SETUP or
PORT 2 SETUP to display a list of data-format control options, as shown below.
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
The devices interfacing with the 958 may have special requirements; check their installation
instructions. The factory settings are fine for most devices, but the following are available, if needed.
TABLE 8: Setup options for the NMEA port
Setting
Choices
OUTPUT FORMAT
(see below)
For port 1, choose NONE, 0183
RAY, or 0183 V2.1. For port 2,
choose the above plus RADAR
NMEA 0183 TALKER ID
(see page 27)
choose GP, LC, or II, to make
the 958 look like a GPS receiver,
Loran-C receiver, or an
“integrated instrument”
NMEA 0183 LL PRECISION
(see page 27)
choose hundredths of minutes,
thousandths of minutes, or
ten-thousandths of minutes
OUTPUT RATE
(see page 28)
choose 2 to 999 seconds for the
interval at which data is sent to
the external device
NMEA 0183 WAYPT ID AS
(see page 28)
choose NAME or NUMBER for
the identifier of waypoints sent to
the external device
NMEA 0183 CHECKSUMS
(see page 28)
choose ON or OFF for
compatibility with some older
devices
OUTPUT DATUM
(see page 28)
choose from a list of datums to
apply to your lat/lon coordinates,
if necessary
Choosing the output format
The 958 outputs navigation data in any of several standard formats as required by the receiving, or
“listener,” device. The OUTPUT FORMAT option provides the following choices:
• None turns the outputs off for when the 958 isn’t connected to an external device.
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
• 0183 Ray is used when transmitting/receiving position information to or from
Raytheon equipment. In Raytheon’s NMEA 0183 format, the checksum isn’t used.
(Note: Since the checksum isn’t used, the 958 may receive incorrect NMEA data
when connected to an external Raytheon loran.)
• NMEA 0183 Version 2.1 is a general-use interface output format used by most
autopilots, radars, plotters, and other equipment. (NMEA 0183 Version 1.5
sentences—BWC, GLL, and RNN—allow backwards compatibility with marine
equipment designed for this earlier version of 0183).
• Radar is used when the 958 is connected to a Northstar radar.
Displaying NMEA output sentences
When you select 0183 or 0183 RAY as the output format (after pressing the EDIT menu key) and
press ENTER, a screen is displayed showing all the NMEA 0183 sentences the 958 can output.
Three-letter abbreviations identify each sentence and are listed alphabetically. (For the meaning of
these sentences, see the NMEA interface specifications document published by the NMEA.) The
sentences to be output are followed by the word ON; those that won’t be output have two dashes
indicating that they’re off. Some devices can’t handle all these sentences correctly, so you can
customize the output here by turning individual sentences on or off. In general, you may want to
turn on only those sentences used by the particular equipment interfaced to the 958.
Turning NMEA output sentences on and off
To turn on or off the 958’s NMEA 0183 sentences, first follow the above description to display the
0183 SENTENCE screen, then press the CURSOR PAD to highlight the sentence you want to turn on
or off, then press EDIT. Press the CURSOR PAD to toggle the sentence on or off, and press ENTER to
make your selection (or CLEAR to leave it unchanged). Repeat for each sentence as desired. When
you’re done, press RETURN to go back to the PORT SETUP screen.
The NMEA ON/OFF item list controls only the Version 2.01 GLL and BWC
items, not the 1.5 version of these items. Thus, ON/OFF changes made to
the Version 1.5 GLL and BWC output items have no effect on the data
actually output unless you select that particular format version.
NOTE:
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
If you want to set all the sentences to the factory settings for recommended output, press the SAFE
RESET menu key. If you want to turn on only a select few sentences for output, press the ALL OFF
menu key to turn off all sentences, then turn the desired ones back on.
Choosing the talker ID
The NMEA 0183 standard requires that the equipment you’re interfaced to—the “listener”—knows
what type of device is transmitting the data. The 958’s talker ID tells the listener that it is receiving
information from a navigation source, not a communications or sensor device—which transmits
completely different forms of data. Certain listening devices will only accept navigation data
identified as coming from loran (LC), GPS (GP), or an integrated instrument (II). The 958 lets you set
its talker ID to LC, GP, or II to match what the listener device is expecting:
1. Check the listener device’s instruction manual to determine which “talker ID”
codes it will respond to.
2. At the PORT 1 SETUP or PORT 2 SETUP screen, press the CURSOR PAD to
highlight the NMEA 0183 TALKER ID option, then press the EDIT menu key.
3. Scroll through the three choices using the CURSOR PAD to make your selection,
and press the ENTER key. The interfaced equipment will now receive the 0183
data in the correct nav-source format.
Choosing the lat/lon precision
For more flexibility when communicating with a variety of other devices, you can set the precision
level of the 0183 position information output by the 958. The choice you make depends on the
equipment to which you’re outputting the NMEA data (for the number of digits of precision required
for that particular device, see the manufacturer’s instructions). You have three choices:
• XX.XX ’ (lat/lon precision to two decimal places/hundredths of minutes/or 60 feet)
• XX.XXX ’ (lat/lon precision to three decimal places/thousandths of minutes/or 6
feet; this is the factory setting)
• XX.XXXX ’ (lat/lon precision to four decimal places/ten-thousands of minutes/or
roughly ½ foot)
The 958 conforms to the NMEA version 2.00 standard, and is also compatible with version 1.50.
Electronic and pen plotting devices typically benefit the most from three and four decimal places of
precision. However, many older devices (and some current autopilots) designed to operate with the
original 0183 and other formats can only function with two-place precision.
Position information can be output and displayed to four
decimal places, but the ability to actually navigate with such
accuracy is limited by the accuracy of the Loran and GPS
systems. Therefore, choosing more decimal places doesn’t
necessarily increase navigating accuracy.
NOTE:
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
Choosing the output rate
The default rate for standard NMEA 0183 output is two seconds. The 958 lets you use a one-second
update interval, a rate of 1 Hz, under limited circumstances, for NMEA and diagnostic data output.
Using the 1-Hz output option requires some thought when specifying either NMEA 0183 (NMEA
version 2.0) or Raytheon (RAY 0183). Because there isn’t enough time to transmit all available
sentences within one second, you must select for output only those that are needed. If you select
more sentences than can be output in one second, the 958 displays the following error message:
SORRY, CAN’T DO THAT. TOO MANY SENTENCES FOR 1 SEC INTERVAL
In this case, you must select fewer sentences.
There are some applications that need a longer update period. In that case, you can increase the span
to 999 seconds.
Choosing the waypoint identification (ID)
Many marine devices can display waypoint names if they’re output by the 958. At the PORT 1 SETUP
or PORT 2 SETUP screen, highlight the NMEA 0183 WAYPT ID AS option, then press the EDIT menu
key. Change the option from NUMBER to NAME, and press the ENTER key when done. If capable, the
listening device will now display six-character waypoint names.
Be sure to see if the listening device can do this before you change
the NMEA WAYPT ID AS option. Many older devices won’t
understand this identifier, and using it may cause problems with
displaying waypoint information or when following routes.
NOTE:
There is no standard for identifying how numbers should be
assigned when converting waypoints from names to numbers. When
you export waypoint information as numbers to a peripheral device,
be aware that numbers aren’t sequentially defined and may be
re-used on a random basis.
Choosing the checksum setting
Some older devices may not accept sentences containing the NMEA 0183 checksum that’s output by
the 958. In such cases, the device may not work properly or at all. If you have problems interfacing
to older equipment, the 958 lets you turn off the NMEA 0183 checksum: At the PORT 1 SETUP or
PORT 2 SETUP screen, press the CURSOR PAD to highlight the NMEA 0183 CHECKSUMS option,
then press EDIT. Press the CURSOR PAD to change the setting from ON to OFF, then press ENTER.
Selecting an independent NMEA output-port datum
You can adjust the geodetic datum for NMEA 0183 ports 1 and 2, separately from the datum you
choose for position display. At the PORT SETUP 1 or PORT SETUP 2 screen, highlight the OUTPUT
DATUM option, then press EDIT. Scroll through the choices to make your selection. To apply this
chosen datum to the lat/lon coordinates in the NMEA 0183 output sentences, press the ENTER key.
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
Using 200 ppnm output
The 958 provides an open-collector transistor output (on pin 14) that’s programmed to produce 200
pulses per nautical mile. The emitter of the NPN transistor is connected to ground, and its collector
sink 100mA, and can withstand a maximum positive voltage of 50 volts.If the output connects to an
inductive device (for example, a relay), a spike suppression diode such as a 1N4001 should be
connected across the load. Cathode connects to the power side of the device and anode connects to
the output pin side. The output is normally open, switching to ground for 80ms. It supports speeds
from zero to 100 knots (clamps at 100kt).
Figure 16: Wiring for 200 PPNM output
Configuring the RS-232 port
The RS-232 port on the NMEA connector is used to interface to any any compatible SC104 output or
a PC for downloading waypoints or for uploading 958 software updates. The following sections
describe the RS-232 port’s settings for SC-104 in, and copy port 1 and 2.
Using SC-104 in
THE SC-104 IN setting lets the 958 accept optional differential corrections from any source that
transmits the standard SC-104 data stream. When using SC-104 IN, be sure that the BAUD RATE
setting also matches the beacon receiver’s baud rate requirements.
Using copy port 1 and copy port 2
The COPY PORT setting lets you interface the 958 to many PC’s without using an RS422-to-RS232
converter. Many PC application programs can be used for waypoint/route loading, chart programs,
data logging, etc. This function “copies” the output of the specified port 1 or port 2 data format
(NMEA 0183 or Raytheon 0183) to the RS-232 port’s output for direct connection to the computer.
1. Press STAR to display the OPTIONS/SERVICE INFO screen, then press PORT
SETUP OPTIONS.
2. Press PORT 1 SETUP or PORT 2 SETUP to confirm that the port you want to copy
is now set to output the desired data format. If necessary, make changes now by
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
pressing EDIT, pressing ENTER when done, and RETURN to go back to the PORT
SETUP OPTIONS screen.
3. If necessary, change the RS-232 SETUP option to display the appropriate COPY
PORT 1 or COPY PORT 2 selection by pressing EDIT, then pressing the CURSOR
PAD to change the selection, then pressing ENTER. The unit will now copy and
output the specified port’s data format through the RS-232 port to an external
device.
The RS-232 diagnostic port may overflow—when it’s configured to either
COPY PORT1 or COPY PORT2, and one of the copied ports is in 0183
output mode—unless the diagnostic port’s baud rate is fast enough to
handle the number of characters. Because the diagnostic port’s baud rate
can now be changed, the 958 will always display this precautionary
message before you actually reset the baud rate: WARNING: ALL
SENTENCES MAY NOT TRANSMIT AT DIAG BAUD RATE. PRESS
“ENTER” TO CONTINUE
NOTE:
Using the port off setting
Use this setting when you don’t need the RS-232 port’s input or output functions.
About the diagnostic setting
This setting is only used for troubleshooting at the Northstar factory. Do not use this setting.
Connecting the 958 to a remote display
The 958’s VGA connector is used to connect it with a remote display, such as the Northstar 1201 or
1202. Northstar doesn’t supply the connecting cable since the cable requirements vary with each
particular installation. The VGA connector accepts the 15-pin connector from a standard VGA cable.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions for further cabling and setup details. If you’re connecting to
the Northstar 1201 or 1202, see the Northstar 1200 Series Display Owner’s Guide (part number
GM1200UG).
Connecting the 958 to a video camera
The 958’s VIDEO connector is used to connect to any NTSC-compatible device, such as a video
camera. Northstar doesn’t supply the connecting cable since the cable requirements vary with each
particular installation. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for further cabling and setup details.
After you’ve connected the 958 to the video device, check the connection by pressing the VIDEO
menu key (available on most 958’s screens) to see the video image. For instructions on moving the
image and changing its size, see the Northstar 958 Operator’s Manual (part number GM958UM).
Page 30
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
Connecting two Northstar units
You can connect two 958’s (or a 958 to a 957) and then transfer one of the unit’s waypoints and
routes into the other. To connect the 958’s, you must fabricate an interface cable and terminate both
its ends with the supplied 6-pin solder-cup style cable connectors. This data-transfer cable is not
included with the 958. You must select a cable; use only shielded, twisted pair.
You can also connect a 958 with a Northstar 952, 951, or 941, also using your own data-transfer
cable. Each 952, 951, and 941 that you want to transfer waypoints and routes to or from must be
using software version 3.12 or higher.
Assembling the cable
To assemble the cable:
1. Cut the cable to the desired length.
2. Slide the following parts onto each end of the cable, in the following order:
• connector backshell
• rubber-strain relief boot that fits inside the backshell
• twist lock (also known as a quarter turn), ensuring that it’s facing in the correct
direction.
3. Trim and prepare the wires for soldering to the connector body.
4. Terminate the cable, as described below.
Terminating the cable
To terminate the cable:
1. Terminate and solder the appropriate wires to the appropriate pins:
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
Shield termination
957/958 6-PIN AUX CONNECTOR
Pin number
958 6-PIN AUX CONNECTOR
Pin number
Ground/shield
No connect
Ground/shield
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
No connect
Aux input B
2
3
4
5
6
Aux input B
Aux output A
Aux output A
Aux output B
Aux input A
Aux output B
Aux input A
Figure 17: 957/958 aux ports’ interface diagram (wiring side view, solder cup)
TABLE 9: 958-to-958 wiring
958
Function
958
Function
Pin #
Pin #
1
2
3
4
5
6
Ground shield
1
2
5
6
3
4
Ground shield
No connect
Aux In B
No connect
Aux Out B
Aux In A
Aux Out A
Aux Out B
Aux In A
Aux In B
Aux Out A
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
952/951/941 10-PIN
AUX CONNECTOR
Pin number
Shield
termination
No connect
No connect
1
2
3
4
5
6
No connect
No connect
958 6-PIN
AUX CONNECTOR
Pin number
Aux input B
Ground/shield
1
Ground/shield
No connect
2
Aux input B
Aux output B
Aux input A
7
8
3
Aux output A
4
Aux output B
Aux output A
No connect
9
5
Aux input A
10
6
Figure 18: 952/951/941 and 958 aux ports’ interface diagram (wiring side view,
solder cup)
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SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 958 system
TABLE 10: 952/951/941 to 958 wiring
952
951
Function
958
Pin #
Function
941
Pin #
5
6
7
8
9
Aux In B
5
1
3
4
6
Aux Out B
Ground shield
Aux Out B
Aux In A
Ground shield
Aux In B
Aux Out A
Aux In A
Aux Out A
*Pins 1, 2, 3, 4 and 10 on the 941/951/952 aux connector, and pin 2
on the 958 aux connector, aren’t used.
3. Slide the twist lock onto the connector body.
4. Screw the connector backshell to the connector body, and tighten.
5. Install the strain- relief clamp with two screws.
6. Connect each end of the cable into the 6-pin ports at the back of the 958, or
connect one end of the cable into the 10-pin port at the back of the 941, 951, or
952.
7. Turn both units on, and test for the proper cable connection: a) Press WAYPTS/
ROUTES; b) Press IMPORT/EXPORT; c) Press IMPORT DATA or EXPORT DATA; d)
Press TEST COMM. The message should read REMOTE LINK OK. If so, the
hardware connection is done and the two units can now transfer all waypoints and
routes between them.
Setting the anchor-watch alarm honk
The anchor-watch alarm function is used to set the 958 to honk, in addition to beep, once you
958’s external honk feature. You can use Radio Shack part number 273-060 or an equivalent. A
continuous honking sequence will begin, either when the vessel moves outside the specified
anchor-alarm radius or when the navigation source becomes unavailable—once you’ve set the
anchor-watch alarm to honk. For details, see the Northstar 958 Operator’s Manual (part number
GM958UM).
Figure 19: Pin14 honk alarm connection
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SECTION SEVEN:
Troubleshooting and servicing
the 958 system
Troubleshooting installation problems
Make sure that the 958 doesn’t interfere with any other on-board
systems. Check all other systems to ensure that their performance
doesn’t degrade when the 958 is turned on.
CAUTION!
TABLE 11: Troubleshooting the 958 installation
Problem Area
POWER
Symptom
Possible Solutions/Reasons
•
•
Pressing the PWR key doesn’t start the
958
•
•
Check the fuse and the power to the
958.
DISPLAY
The 958 powers up, beeps, but there
The display may have failed. Call your
Northstar dealer or the Northstar Ser-
vice Department.
isn’t any video.
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SECTION SEVEN: Troubleshooting and servicing the 958 system
TABLE 11: Troubleshooting the 958 installation (cont.)
Problem Area
DISPLAY (cont.)
Symptom
Possible Solutions/Reasons
•
The display screen dims, either slightly
•
The 958 may be going into auto-dim-
ming mode. Auto-dimming helps
maintain the integrity of the display
and reduce power consumption when
the 958 is on and running too hot for
its current environment. In this case,
the display screen may automatically
dim.
or more, after the 958 has been on for a
certain time.
•
•
The internal 8117 video chip has
failed; contact the Northstar Service
Department. (This failure affects only
the video image, nothing else.)
•
•
The message 8117 FAILURE appears
where the video input image should be.
Color bars appear where the video
overlay image should be.
Check that the video image is turned
on (press STAR to display the
VIDEO SETUP screen).
•
•
Check the cables and the connectors.
Check that the video equipment is
working properly.
SYSTEM
Hardware-related:
System lock-ups
•
•
Possible internal failure; call your
Northstar dealer or the Northstar Ser-
vice Department.
•
The system locks up on a random basis
with no apparent pattern.
Possible bad chart card. Remove the
card, and inspect the pin area of the
card and the 958 for damage. If the
pins in the 958 are bent or damaged,
to prevent further damage, don’t
insert another card. If you’re sure the
card pins aren’t bent, try inserting a
new card (turn power off before
inserting).
•
The system locks up when using a chart
card.
•
System fails any initial self-tests.
•
Possible internal failure; call your
Northstar dealer or the Northstar Ser-
vice Department.
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SECTION SEVEN: Troubleshooting and servicing the 958 system
TABLE 12: Troubleshooting the 2201 and 2301 installation
If . . .
Then . . .
Satellite signals are often lost, or the 2201
works while you’re travelling in one
direction, but not the opposite one.
The 2201 or 2301 may be partially shaded by metallic objects around
it. Re-position or raise the 2201 or 2301 away from the object for a
better satellite view.
Signals may be lost when the 2201 or 2301 is under a bridge or when
shielded by buildings.
Poor SNR readings are obtained even
after running the 958 for several minutes
Check the quality of the antenna location—the antenna should have a
clear view of the sky. For the correct antenna placement, see Figure 8
Make sure the antenna is clean, and not covered with ice, snow, or
exhaust soot.
You’re having difficulty obtaining WAAS
Check that WAAS is available in your operating area.
satellites
Reset the 958’s satellite elevation setting to its default (10 degrees).
Check that the 958’s DIFFERENTIAL OPERATIONS option is set to
either WAAS or AUTO.
The following error message appears on
the 958 display:
With power on, check the antenna and wiring connections.
COMM FAIL
Disconnect the 2201 or 2301 from the 958, then measure the 7-pin
2201/2301 connector for 10 - 36 volts at pin 7, ground at pin 6.
Check the 2201 or 2301’s remote-on: Pin 5 should measure less than
5 ohms to ground.
After testing above, re-connect the cable and press the PWR key to
turn the 958 off, then turn it back on again.
TOO FEW SATS
Check if anything is blocking the 2201 or 2301’s view of the sky.
The almanac may not be complete; allow up to 30 minutes for full
initial acquisition.
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SECTION SEVEN: Troubleshooting and servicing the 958 system
TABLE 13: Troubleshooting the 2701 and AN205-P installation
If . . .
Then . . .
Satellite signals are often lost, or the
AN205-P works while you’re travelling in
one direction, but not the opposite one.
The antenna may be partially shaded by metallic objects around it.
Re-position or raise the antenna away from the object for a better
satellite view.
Signals may be lost when the antenna is under a bridge or when
shielded by buildings.
Poor SNR readings are obtained even
after running the 958 for several minutes
Check the quality of the antenna location—the antenna should have a
clear view of the sky.
Make sure the antenna is clean, and not covered with ice, snow, or
exhaust soot.
You’re having difficulty obtaining WAAS
Check that WAAS is available in your operating area.
satellites
Reset the 958’s satellite elevation setting to its default (10 degrees).
Check that the 958’s DIFFERENTIAL OPERATIONS option is set to
either WAAS or AUTO.
The following error message appears on
the 958 display:
With power on, check the antenna and wiring connections.
COMM FAIL
Disconnect the 2701 from the 958, then measure the 25-pin 2701
connector for 10 - 36 volts at pin 25, ground at pin 13.
Check the 2701’s remote-on: Pin 12 should measure less than 5
ohms to ground.
After testing above, re-connect the cable and turn the 958 off, then
turn it back on again.
TOO FEW SATS
Check if anything is blocking the 2701’s or antenna’s view of the sky.
The almanac may not be complete; allow up to 30 minutes for full
initial acquisition.
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SECTION SEVEN: Troubleshooting and servicing the 958 system
Getting technical support
Contacting Northstar
After you’ve followed the instructions in this manual, if you need technical assistance or have any
other service-related questions, you can contact the Northstar Service Department. Please be as
complete and accurate as possible when describing the problem so that a service technician can
research the problem and provide the quickest response. You can reach Northstar’s Service
Department is available between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday,
excluding major holidays. To buy spare, replacement, or missing parts, and to get brochures and
product information, contact the Northstar Sales Department.
Please have the 958’s serial number — available on the back or
on the OPTIONS/SERVICE INFO screen — ready before
contacting Northstar’s Service Department.
NOTE:
TABLE 14: Contacting Northsta r
Email:
Service: [email protected]
Sales: [email protected]
Fax:
Service: 978/897-1595
Sales: 978/897-7241
Telephone:
Main number: 978/897-6600 or 800/628-4487
U.S. mail:
30 Sudbury Road
Acton, MA 01720 USA
Website:
Northstar directly from this site, and access
additional technical information and download
manuals in PDF form under either the Manuals or
Support links).
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION SEVEN: Troubleshooting and servicing the 958 system
Hearing from you
Your feedback is important and helps Northstar ensure that this manual is a valuable resource for all
marine technicians. Email your comments or suggestions about this manual to the following address:
Using the Dealer Express web pages
Northstar dealers can get service information online by going to the Dealer Express area on
Northstar’s website. Contact Northstar for your dealer password before clicking on the Dealer
Express link. This area includes the following topics:
• service bulletins (for known issues and solutions)
• software update information (for new software features)
• service request form (for sending systems back)
• service status request form (for systems currently under repair)
• warranty registration form (for registering new products)
Obtaining software updates
the Manuals link.
For dealers
Once Northstar has posted an addendum to its website, you can call the Northstar Sales Department
to order the corresponding software update, or download the update from the Dealer Express area of
the website.
For operators
958 operators should contact their respective dealer for software updates. Northstar does not
recommend that operators install software updates. If an update is installed incorrectly by mistake,
you may lose data and the 958 may not work properly. Software updates aren’t covered by the
Northstar warranty.
Returning a 958 for service
958 repairs are performed only by authorized Northstar dealers or at the Northstar factory. Service
includes a complete hardware and software check-out. For a system under warranty, shipping
charges to the factory are the only cost for factory repair. The repaired 958 will be returned via
prepaid economy ground freight (units returned overseas are chargeable). The 958 and any
accessories returned for warranty repair that are determined to be without fault are subject to a
handling charge.
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SECTION SEVEN: Troubleshooting and servicing the 958 system
For 958’s still under warranty, field repairs aren’t authorized and
will void the warranty! Please contact the Northstar Customer
Service Department if you need clarification, or need assistance
with having repairs done.
NOTE:
NOTE:
Before returning the 958 to the Northstar factory, to prevent
delays, it is critical that you first obtain a Return Materials
Authorization (RMA) number from the Northstar Service
Department. If the 958 was purchased through a dealer, call the
dealer with the 958 serial number so they can help you get an
RMA number. Shipments without a proper RMA number will not
be accepted.
You may want to back-up any user-defined waypoints and routes
before returning the 958 for repair. See the Northstar 958
Operator’s Manual for details.
CAUTION!
The 958 is covered by a two-year hardware-only warranty, which, in summary, states that if the unit
is returned to the factory by the owner or dealer during the warranty period, Northstar will repair or
replace, free of charge, any part found to be defective due to faulty materials or workmanship if the
system has been properly installed and hasn’t been abused. See the Limited Warranty Policy at the
front of this manual for further details. The only cost to the owner will be the one-way shipping
charges and any associated charges that may be imposed by the dealer. If you have overnight or
second-day shipping requirements, before shipping the unit, please call the factory for turnaround
time, freight charges, and payment arrangements.
The 958 should be shipped only in a properly designed carton with packing material, and to the
Northstar factory at the following address: Northstar Technologies Service Department, 30 Sudbury
Road, Acton, MA 01720 USA.
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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SECTION SEVEN: Troubleshooting and servicing the 958 system
Page 42
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APPENDIX A: 958 system
technical specifications
TABLE 15: 958 technical specifications
Physical features/environmental
Interfacing
Waterproof control head
Two bi-directional NMEA I/O ports, 1 AUX port
Two bi-directional RS-232 ports
10.4” diagonal color LCD
Unsurpassed sunlight viewability
Interfaces to optional Northstar 490 for fishfinding or
to an optional Northstar radar
640x480 pixel, hi-temp, backlit, transmissive color
LCD
Waypoint upload/download capability to a PC (with
appropriate software)
Flush mount standard
High-contrast anti-reflective screen
Waterproof chart cartridge door
One VGA out port (connects to Northstar 1201
monitor and others)
Large, easy-to-use backlit controls
Easy interfacing I/O plugs
One VIDEO in port
NMEA input sentences: WPL and others
0 degrees Celsius - 55 degrees Celsius max 95%
relative humidity, noncondensing
200 PPNM speed output
Honk output
10 - 36 volts DC power, 50 watts
NMEA output sentences: APB, BOD, BWC, GGA,
GLC, GLL, GSA, GSV, LCD, HSC, MSS, RNN, RMC,
RMA, RMB, VTG, WCV, XTE, ZDA, ZTG. (Conforms
to NMEA v 2.0 and later. Supports 1.5 GLL and
BWC.)
Accepts most external loran receivers
Waypoint and route transfer between two 958’s (or a
957 and a Northstar 941/951/952)
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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APPENDIX A: 958 system technical specifications
TABLE 16: 2201/2301 technical specifications
Physical features
Interfacing
Self-contained 12-channel L1 GPS/WAAS pod
antenna-receiver.
Prime power:10 to 36 VDC (12V and 24V system).
2.4 watts typical at 12V. Reverse polarity protected
Dimensions: 4.5" (114mm) diameter x 3.79" (96mm) and load dump protected.
high.
Input messages:Auxiliary (RTCM SC104) messages
Weight: 1.2 lb. maximum excluding cable (0.55 kg). 1, 3, 9. Output messages: NMEA GGA, GSA, GSV,
Cable (normal installation): 22 Ga conductors
RMC, VTG, ZDA, GLL.
foil-shielded cable, environmentally sealed (50-foot Serial communications: RS-232 asynchronous data
cable supplied).
port, Main port IN/OUT plus AUX input; 19,200 baud
standard (both ports user-selectable from 300 to
19,200 baud). Default baud rate = 9600.
Mounting: 1-14 UNS threads x 1" deep for mast
mounting, and 3 x 10-32 UNF screws for deck
mounting (2201-only).
Connector receptacle with 7 male contacts. Mating:
Switchcraft EN3C7FC or equivalent.
Performance
Environmental
2
3
Acceleration: 4 Gs (39.2 m/s ), Jerk: 2 m/s
Operating temperature: -30 to +75°C (standard).
Storage temperature: -55 to +90°C.
Velocity: 1852 km/h (514 m/s) max.
Position accuracy: <3 m 2dRMS.
Humidity: SAE J1455/4.2 Procedure I/II.
Time-to-first-fix (TTFF): Hot start - 20 seconds typical, Waterproof: Fully sealed unit. Meets MIL-STD 810E
with current almanac. Warm start - 45 seconds method 512.3 (equivalent to 6-foot, 30-minutes
typical, with current almanac. Cold start - 2 minutes submersion).
typical, with no almanac. Shock: MIL-STD 810E Method 506.4, Procedure I,
IV.
Re-acquisition time: <1 second typical to re-acquire Vibration: MIL-STD 810E Method 514.4 Category 8.
(five-second obscuration). 3 seconds typical to
re-acquire (60-minute obscuration).
Salt spray: MIL-STD 810E Method 509.3 (48 hours).
Sand and dust: MIL-STD 810E Method 510.3.
Channel allocation: 10 GPS channels plus two WAAS ESD: IEC 1000-4-2 level 2 (-8 kV to +8 kV).
satellites. EMI: FCC Class B, European CE, 89/EEC EN55022
Coarse acquisition: C/A code (1.023 MHz chip rate), class B, EN50082-1.
code and carrier phase tracking.
Ultraviolet light protection: ASTM G53-88.
Sensitivity: -135 dBm (antenna input level).
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APPENDIX A: 958 system technical specifications
TABLE 17: 2701 technical specifications
Physical features
Interfacing
Dimensions: 2.0” high x 4.68” wide x 8.9” deep
Weight: 2 pounds
Primary power: 10 to 40 VDC (12V and 24V
systems). 10 watts typical.
RS-232, GPS, and beacon receiver comm ports
Performance
Environmental
Velocity: 1852 km/h (514 m/sec) max.
Acceleration: 4 Gs (39.2 m/sec , Jerk: 2 m/sec
Position accuracy: < 1 m circular error probability
(CEP), DGPS; < 2 m circular error probability (CEP),
WAAS.
Operating temperature:
Receiver: 0 degrees C to +50 degrees C.
Antenna/preamp: -40 degrees C to +50 degrees C.
2
3
Time-to-first-fix (TTFF): Hot start - 20 seconds typical,
with current almanac, position, time, and ephemeris.
Warm start - 45 seconds typical, with current
almanac, position, time, and ephemeris. Cold start - 2
minutes typical, no almanac, position, and time. With
WAAS acquisition, add 30 seconds typical (max. 1
minute)
Re-acquisition time: < 1 second typical to re-acquire
(5-second obscuration); 3 seconds typical to
re-acquire (60-minute obscuration).
Channels allocation: 10 GPS channels plus two
WAAS satellites.
958 Installation Manual, Rev. A1
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