Garmin GDL 30A User manual

GDL 30/ GDL 30A (audio)
marine weather satellite receiver
owner’s manual
190-00336-00_0B.cover.indd 1 8/16/2004, 11:50:03 AM

© Copyright 2004 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries
Garmin International, Inc.
1200 East 151st Street, Olathe, Kansas 66062, U.S.A.
Tel. [phone] or 800/800.1020
Fax [phone]
Garmin (Europe) Ltd.
Unit 5, The Quadrangle, Abbey Park Industrial Estate,
Romsey, SO51 9DL, U.K.
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
All rights reserved. Except as expressly provided herein, no part of this manual may be reproduced, copied, transmitted, disseminated, downloaded or stored in any stor-
age medium, for any purpose without the express prior written consent of Garmin. Garmin hereby grants permission to download a single copy of this manual and of any
revision to this manual onto a hard drive or other electronic storage medium to be viewed and to print one copy of this manual or of any revision hereto, provided that such
electronic or printed copy of this manual must contain the complete text of this copyright notice and provided further that any unauthorized commercial distribution of this
manual or any revision hereto is strictly prohibited.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. Garmin reserves the right to change or improve its products and to make changes in the content without
obligation to notify any person or organization of such changes or improvements.
Garmin®is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries and may not be used without the express permission of Garmin.
XM Satellite Radio Inc.
Hardware and required monthly subscription sold separately. Subscription fee is consumer only. Subscription subject to Customer Agreement included with the XM
Welcome Kit and available at www.xmradio.com. Other fees and taxes, including a one-time activation fee may apply. All fees and weather data subject to change. XM WX
weather data displays and individual product availability vary by hardware equipment. Service available only in the 48 contiguous United States. Reception of the XM Signal
may vary depending on location. XM WX Satellite Weather is a trademark of XM Satellite Radio. XM WX is a trademark of XM Satellite Radio Inc.
© 2004 XM Satellite Radio Inc. All rights reserved.
August 2004 Part Number 190-00336-00 Rev. B Printed in Taiwan
Garmin Corporation
No. 68, Jangshu 2nd Road, Shijr, Taipei
County, Taiwan
Tel. [phone]
Fax [phone]
190-00336-00_0B.cover.indd 3 8/16/2004, 11:50:39 AM

1
Preface
Congratulations on choosing one of the most advanced marine weather systems available! The GDL 30
Marine Weather Satellite Receiver and the GDL 30A Marine Weather/Audio Satellite Receiver provide both
graphical and textual marine XM WX weather information that can be viewed through your Garmin Marine
Network Chartplotters (such as the GPSMAP 3006C/3010C) once you subscribe to the XM WX Satellite
Weather service. Additionally, the GDL 30A offers music, news, and talk programming capability when you
subscribe to the XM Radio service.
This manual covers the XM weather and audio features of the GDL 30/30A when viewed on the Garmin
Marine Network Chartplotters. To get the most out of your new system, take the time to go through this
manual to learn the operating procedures for your GDL 30/30A. This manual discusses in detail how to install
your GDL 30/30A as well as how to subscribe to XM WX Weather (and XM Radio if you own a GDL 30A). It
also describes weather features that are included in both the GDL 30 and 30A as well as the audio features that
are included in the GDL 30A. For all other unit operating instructions, refer to your Garmin Chartplotter’s
Owner’s Manual and Quick Reference Guide.
Product terminology used throughout this manual:
• This manual refers to the GDL 30 Marine Weather Satellite Receiver as GDL 30 and the GDL 30A
Marine Weather/Audio Satellite Receiver as GDL 30A. It covers instructions for both units (GDL 30/
30A). Unless otherwise specified, unit operations are the same on both models.
• Garmin Marine Network Chartplotters are Multi-Function Display units such as the GPSMAP 3006C/
3010C. They are referred to as Chartplotters throughout this manual.
Garmin Customer Service Product Registration
Help us better support your equipment purchase by completing our online registration today!
Have the serial number of your GDL 30/30A handy and connect to our Web site (www.garmin.com). Look for
the Product Registration link on the Home page. Also, be sure to record your serial number in the right-hand
column for a quick reference.
Introduction
Product Registration
Serial Number for GDL 30/30A
Use this area to record the serial number (8-digit
number located on the bottom of your unit) in
case it is lost, stolen, or needs service. Be sure to
keep your original sales receipt in a safe place or
attach a photocopy inside the manual.
Serial Number:
XM WX Weather and XM Radio IDs
Use this area to record the ID numbers (8-digit
number located on the Information submenu tab
of your unit--see page 6 of this manual) in case
your unit is lost or stolen. XM Satellite Radio can
deactivate these radio codes when you call.
XM WX Weather ID Number:
XM Radio ID Number (GDL 30A only):
www.xmwxweather.com
800-985-9200
www.garmin.com
190-00336-00_0B.indd 1 8/17/2004, 9:55:51 AM

2
Table of Contents
Preface.................................................................................1
Garmin Customer Service Product Registration ...................1
Unit Overview.................................................................... 3
Packing List and Accessories ............................................. 3
Installing the GDL 30/30A ................................................. 4
Subscribing to XM WX Weather and XM Radio ................. 6
Adding Weather and Sea Surface Features to your Map
displays.............................................................................. 9
Initially Loading Weather-Related Information ..................10
Adjusting Weather Features on a Map ...............................10
Weather Features ............................................................ 11
NEXRAD ...........................................................................11
Storm Cells........................................................................12
Lightning...........................................................................13
Wind.................................................................................14
Pressure.............................................................................15
Hurricanes ........................................................................16
Visibility............................................................................17
Fronts................................................................................18
Sea Surface Features ....................................................... 19
Temperature ......................................................................19
Wave Height......................................................................19
Wave Period ......................................................................20
Wave Direction..................................................................20
Viewing Multiple Maps ................................................... 21
Finding Current Weather, Forecast, and Sea Surface Conditions
22
Finding Weather Conditions at other Locations.................23
Customizing Radio Stations (for GDL 30A only).............. 24
Viewing and Selecting Channels........................................24
Adding Favorites ...............................................................25
Deleting Favorites..............................................................25
Scanning Stations ..............................................................26
Disabling the Audio Output ..............................................27
Appendix A: Blink Codes ................................................. 28
Appendix B: Broadcast Rates .......................................... 29
Appendix C: Specifications.............................................. 30
Appendix D: Software ..................................................... 31
Appendix E: Product Safety and Regulatory Information .32
Limited Warranty ..............................................................34
Index................................................................................ 35
WHERE DO I BEGIN?WHERE DO I BEGIN?
To properly install your Marine Weather
Satellite Receiver or Marine Weather/Audio
Satellite Receiver, see pages 4-5.
To subscribe to XM WX Weather and XM
Radio, see pages 6-7.
Po
L
190-00336-00_0B.indd 2 8/17/2004, 9:56:20 AM

3
Unit Overview
Unit Overview
)
Cleaning - The unit’s case is constructed of high quality
material and does not require user maintenance other
than cleaning. Clean the unit housing using a lightly-
dampened cloth with a mild detergent solution and then
wipe dry. Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents that may
damage plastic components. Do not apply cleaner to the
electrical contacts on the front of the unit.
Storage - Do not store the unit where exposure to
temperature extremes may occur, as permanent damage
may result.
UNIT CARE
Packing List and AccessoriesPacking List and Accessories
Before installing your unit, please check to see that your package includes the following items. If any parts
are missing, contact your Garmin dealer immediately.
Standard Package
• GLD 30 or 30A unit
• 7-pin power cable
• Garmin marine network cable (6 ft)
• Owner’s Manual
• GA 31 Antenna with cable
• Audio cable (GDL 30A only)
• Grommet
Optional Accessories
• GMS 10 Network Port Expander
• Garmin marine network cables (20 ft and 40 ft)
Power/Data Connector
LED Status Indicator
Mounting Holes
Weather Cap
Network Port
Antenna Connector
Audio Connector
The Garmin GDL 30/30A has no user-serviceable parts.
Should you ever encounter a problem with your unit, take
it to an authorized Garmin dealer for repairs.
The GDL 30/30A is fastened shut with screws. Any
attempt to open the case to change or modify the unit in
any way voids your warranty and may result in permanent
damage to the equipment.
SERVICING YOUR UNIT
190-00336-00_0B.indd 3 8/17/2004, 9:56:20 AM

4
Installing the GDL 30/30A
To obtain the best possible performance, install the GDL 30/30A according to the following instructions.
When in doubt, seek professional technical assistance.
Step 1: Mount the GDL 30/30A
Mount the GDL 30/30A in a low-traffic location that is preferably dry and well-ventilated. Avoid mounting
the unit where it will be submerged in liquids or exposed to extreme temperatures. If you wish to view the
blink codes (see Appendix A),(see Appendix A), be sure to mount the GDL 30/30A so that the LED is visible.
Once the location is chosen, place the unit in the desired position. Be sure to allow enough clearance for
attaching the cables. Using the unit as a template, mark the location of the four mounting holes. If needed,
additional mounting holes may be drilled in the side mounting flanges of the unit. Secure the GDL 30/30A to
the mounting location using the appropriate fasteners.
Step 2: Connect the 7-pin power cable to your boat’s battery or fuse block
Connect the 7-pin power cable (included) to the 7-pin power cable connector located on the GDL 30/30A
(it is labelled POWER). Then, connect the Red wire to the positive (+) terminal on your battery or fuse block
and the Black wire to the negative (-) terminal. Do not remove the AGC/3AG 2.0 amp fuse holder located on
the Red wire.
Step 3: Connect the GDL 30/30A to your Chartplotter(s)
Connect the GDL 30/30A to one Chartplotter by using the Garmin marine network cable (included).
Simply align the cable heads with the opening of the network port on both the GDL 30/30A and the
Chartplotter. Do not cut the Garmin marine network cable if you need to drill a hole in your boat; useuse
the included grommet that is specially designed to cover holes that are drilled for thethe included grommet that is specially designed to cover holes that are drilled for the Garmin marine network
cable..
Connect the GDL 30/30A to more than one Chartplotter using the Garmin GMS 10 Network Port
Expander (not included). See instructions in the GMS 10 Port Expander manual for more information.
To ensure safety, use the appropriate tie-wraps, fasteners, and sealant to secure the cable along a route and
through any bulkhead or deck.
If you plan to connect your GDL 30/30A to more than
one Chartplotter, consider purchasing a Garmin GMS 10
Network Port Expander (not included). At this time, one
Port Expander allows you to connect your GDL 30/30A to
two Chartplotters. You can also use the Port Expander to
connect multiple Chartplotters and multiple sensors, as
shown above. Units are connected to the Chartplotters by
Garmin marine network cables (not shown).
Installing the GDL 30/30A
Use a Network Port Expander to Connect
the GDL 30/30A to a Chartplotter
Use the included grommet to cover holes you may drill in
your boat for the Garmin marine network cable.
Using the Grommet
190-00336-00_0B.indd 4 8/17/2004, 9:56:24 AM

5
Step 4: Connect the GA 31 Antenna to the GDL 30/30A
Since antenna mounting locations and methods vary, you will need to obtain an antenna mount to install
the antenna. The antenna base fits a standard 1-inch, 14 threads-per-inch marine mount. Check with your
Garmin dealer or a marine supply retailer for this item.
Temporarily place the antenna at your desired installation location. Then, check its operation with poten-
tial interfering equipment turned on and off. (For example, other electronic equipment, fan motors, engine
ignition, alternators, generators, radars, and VHF radio transmissions can be sources of interference.)
Position the antenna so that it obtains the clearest possible view of the sky and horizon in all directions.
Avoid mounting the antenna next to large areas of conductive material (such as metal and aluminum) as this
may cause poor signal reception. The GA 31 antenna is supplied with a 30-foot cable. When routing the
cable, avoid routing it near the vessel’s alternator or ignition system components or parallel to other power
lines. Do not cut or shorten the cable; doing so can harm the weather and radio reception.
After you have found a suitable location, permanently install the antenna. Then, connect the antenna cable
to the GDL 30/30A connector that is labelled ANTENNA.
If you have a GDL 30A: Connect the Audio cable (included) to the GDL 30/30A connector that is
labelled AUDIO and to the audio inputs on your stereo receiver.
Step 5: Turn on the GDL 30/30A
Once you connect the GDL 30/30A to your boat’s power supply and to a Chartplotter (either directly or
via a Garmin GMS 10 Network Port Expander), the GDL 30/30A automatically turns on or off whenever youautomatically turns on or off whenever you
turn on/off a Chartplotter.turn on/off a Chartplotter.
Turn on your Chartplotter. Check the blinking lights on the front of the GDL 30/30A to ensure that it is
on (see Appendix A to view the blink codes).(see Appendix A to view the blink codes).
You are now ready to subscribe to XM WX Weather (and XM Radio if you have a GDL 30A). Subscription
instructions begin on the following page.
Installing the GDL 30/30A
GA 31 Antenna with cable
Need More Cable?
Your GDL 30/30A ships with a 6-foot Garmin
marine network cable so that you can connect
the unit to a Chartplotter or Network Port
Expander (not included). Contact Garmin or
your Garmin dealer if you need to purchase 20-
or 40-foot cables.
Do not cut the GA 31 cable under any circumstance.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 5 8/17/2004, 9:56:27 AM

6
Subscribing to XM WX Weather and XM Radio
After you have completed installing the GDL 30/30A, you are ready to notify XM Satellite Radio to activate
your XM WX weather subscription service. If you own a GDL 30A, you also can activate the XM Radio sub-
scription service.
Follow the instructions below. Complete Steps 1-3 BEFORE you call XM Satellite Radio:
Step 1: Check the System Setup
Make certain the GDL 30/30A is fully wired and is connected either directly to a Chartplotter or to a
Garmin GMS 10 Network Port Expander. Verify that the GA 31 antenna has been properly installed. If you
own a GDL 30A, verify that the audio cable is connected to your GDL 30A and to your stereo receiver.
Step 2: Turn on your System
Turn on your Chartplotter. This turns on the GDL 30/30A automatically.
Step 3: Identify Radio ID(s)
Press and hold down the ADJ/MENU key on your Chartplotter. The Main Menu page appears. A list of
tabs appear down the left-hand side of the Menu page. Using the ARROW KEYPAD on the Chartplotter,
ARROW DOWN the tabs to the XM tab. (Note: With some Chartplotters, you may have to continue
to ARROW DOWN the list until the XM tab becomes visible.) Then, ARROW RIGHT to display the
Information submenu tab.
If you have a GDL 30 (Weather Satellite Receiver) or a GDL 30A (Weather/Audio Satellite Receiver):
From the Information submenu tab, verify that you have an XM Weather Radio ID. Have this informationHave this information
handy, as well as your billing address and other billing information, when you contact XM Satellite Radio.handy, as well as your billing address and other billing information, when you contact XM Satellite Radio.
Subscribing to XM WX Weather
and XM Radio
Use the ARROW KEYPAD on your Chartplotter to move
the cursor UP, DOWN, LEFT, or RIGHT.
ARROW UP
ARROW DOWN
ARROW LEFT ARROW RIGHT
NOTE:
The GDL 30 Marine Weather Satellite
Receiver enables you to receive
XM WX Weather.
The GDL 30A Marine Weather/Audio
Satellite Receiver enables you to
receive both XM WX Weather and XM
Radio.
Verify that you have an XM Weather Radio ID.
If you have a Weather/Audio Satellite Receiver
(GDL 30A), verify that you also have an XM
Audio Radio ID.
Note: If you have a Weather Satellite
Receiver (GDL 30), you will not see an Audio
submenu tab.
For future reference, record your Radio ID(s) in
the space provided on page 1 of this manual.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 6 8/17/2004, 9:56:27 AM

7
If you have a GDL 30A (Weather/Audio Satellite Receiver):
In addition to an XM Weather Radio ID, verify that you also have anverify that you also have an XM Audio Radio ID and have thisXM Audio Radio ID and have this
information handy when you contact XM Satellite Radio.information handy when you contact XM Satellite Radio.
Then, select theThen, select the AudioAudio submenu tab (it is next to the Information submenu tab). Verify thatsubmenu tab (it is next to the Information submenu tab). Verify that XM Preview
appears in the Radio Tuning box. You should hear the Preview channel playing over the audio system, indicat-
ing that your system is set up correctly.
Step 4: Set up your XM Account
Contact XM Satellite Radio by phone at 800-985-9200. When you call, an XM representative will ask you
to provide your address, billing, and other information to set up your XM account. For answers to other ques-
tions you may have, call this same number or visit www.xmwxweather.com.
Step 5: Activate your XM Service and Confirm that you have Received all Components of your Service
Package
Once you have provided complete subscription information to XM Satellite Radio, the XM customer care
representative will send out an XM signal to activate your radio(s).
XM WX Weather: Keep your Chartplotter powered on to ensure you receive the XM signal. You will know
the signal has been received once you see each service component displayed in the “Weather Products” box
and, finally, the name of the service package you have selected (Master Mariner, Fisherman, or Sailor) displayed
in the “Service Level” box. Do not turn off your Chartplotter until you see the name of the service package you
have selected displayed in the “Service Level” box (see Step 6).
If you have a Weather/Audio Satellite Receiver
(GDL 30A), verify that XM Preview appears in
the Radio Tuning box on the Audio submenu
tab.
Note: If you have a Weather Satellite
Receiver (GDL 30), you will not see an Audio
submenu tab.
Subscribing to XM WX Weather
and XM Radio
You will know that the XM signal has been
received when you see service components
displayed in the “Weather Products” box and
the name of your service package (Master
Mariner, Fisherman, Sailor) displayed in the
“Service Level” box.
Note: The service components displayed in
the “Weather Products” box above are data
sources used by the Chartplotter to gener-
ate weather features (such as Storm Cells,
Lightning, and Wind) and to generate current
weather/forecast summaries.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 7 8/17/2004, 9:56:29 AM

8
XM Radio: Highlight the Audio submenu tab and verify you have received Channels 7, 9, 47, and 122
(see page 24 for more information). This indicates you have received all channels on XM’s basic radio service.
If within an hour your system has not activated the XM WX Weather and/or the XM Radio service, call
XM customer care at 800-985-9200 to refresh your signal.
Step 6: SAVE the Service Package to your Receiver
Only after you see the service name displayed in the “Service Level” box should you fully power down
your entire system using the Chartplotter’s power key. This means turning off all Chartplotters to which
your weather/audio receiver is connected. Do not shut down the system by using the breaker.
Step 7: Add Features to your Chartplotter
When you turn on the GDL 30/30A after completing Step 6 (above), you are ready to add weather fea-
tures to your Chartplotter’s Map page (see page 9). If you have a GDL 30A, you are ready to customize your
new radio stations (see page 24).
Subscribing to XM WX Weather
and XM Radio
Problems with your System Activation?
If your system has not activated the XM WX Weather
and/or the XM Radio service, call XM customer care
at 800-985-9200 to refresh your signal.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 8 8/17/2004, 9:56:30 AM

9
Adding Weather and Sea Surface Features to your Map displays
When you add weather and sea surface features, they will appear on the Map function on your
Chartplotter. You can add these features through the Map function’s Adjustment menu. Access this menu by
pressing the ADJ/MENU key on your Chartplotter (see your Chartplotter’s Owner’s Manual for more informa-
tion).
From the Adjustment menu, highlight “Setup” and press ENTER. The Main Menu page appears and the
Map tab (visible in the lower left-hand column) is highlighted. ARROW RIGHT to the Weather submenu
tab to view a list of weather feature options such as NEXRAD, Storm Cells, and Wind.
As is shown in the image at right, all features except NEXRAD are initially disabled.
To add the features you wish to display on a map:
1. ARROW DOWN to the weather feature you wish to add. Then, press the ENTER/MARK key. A numbered column
indicating field ranges appears (Off, All Ranges, > 20 ft, > 30 ft). Selecting a range activates the feature.
2. Highlight the appropriate range at which you wish the weather feature’s data to appear on a map and then press
the ENTER/MARK key. If your Chartplotter displays a numbered list, press the number associated with the range
(such as 4. > 30 ft). The selected range appears in the box next to the weather feature.The selected range appears in the box next to the weather feature.
Note:Note: Depending on the weather feature, field ranges may be defined as “greater than” (>) or “less than” (<) aDepending on the weather feature, field ranges may be defined as “greater than” (>) or “less than” (<) a
particular distance.particular distance.
3. Once you have added your preferred weather features under the Weather
submenu tab, add weather features under the Sea Surface submenu tab
such as Temperature and Wave Height. Follow the instructions in Step 3 for
setting ranges for each feature.
4. Press the QUIT key to exit the Main Menu page.
Selecting a range for a weather feature activates it.
Once added, weather data specific to this feature is
broadcast to your GDL 30/30A.
Adding Weather Data
Main Menu page showing Weather submenu tab infor-
mation. Use this tab to add weather features.
Use the Adjustment menu to access the Main Menu
(highlight Setup, as shown above) and activate weather-
specific functions.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 9 8/17/2004, 9:56:31 AM

10
Adding Weather Data
Initially Loading Weather-Related Information
When you add a weather feature to a map for the first time, data for that feature is sent to your GDL 30/When you add a weather feature to a map for the first time, data for that feature is sent to your GDL 30/
30A via XM WX Satellite Radio. The speed by which this feature appears on a map depends on how often the30A via XM WX Satellite Radio. The speed by which this feature appears on a map depends on how often the
data is transmitted from XM WX Satellite Radio to your unit; this is the broadcast ratedata is transmitted from XM WX Satellite Radio to your unit; this is the broadcast rate. (See Appendix B for all. (See Appendix B for all
weather-related broadcast rates). If you add the NEXRAD feature, for example, your wait time for theweather-related broadcast rates). If you add the NEXRAD feature, for example, your wait time for the initialinitial
data to transmit to your unit will be no more than five minutes. If you power down your unit, the featuresdata to transmit to your unit will be no more than five minutes. If you power down your unit, the features
must be loaded again so you may experience a wait period. After the initial transmission, information for eachmust be loaded again so you may experience a wait period. After the initial transmission, information for each
feature will be updated as data for each becomes available (feature will be updated as data for each becomes available (update rate).update rate).
Adjusting Weather Features on a Map
As was stated earlier, the Adjustment menu for the Map function can be usedAs was stated earlier, the Adjustment menu for the Map function can be used
to access the Setup tabs on the Main Menu page. Additionally, you can use optionsto access the Setup tabs on the Main Menu page. Additionally, you can use options
from the Adjustment menu to activate other weather-related functions.from the Adjustment menu to activate other weather-related functions.
Hide WeatherHide Weather::This function removes weather images from a map. This isThis function removes weather images from a map. This is
useful if you wish to view map detail that is free from weather graphics. If youuseful if you wish to view map detail that is free from weather graphics. If you
choose to view two Map functions on your Chartplotter, you can view the weatherchoose to view two Map functions on your Chartplotter, you can view the weather
detail on one map and hide weather on the other map (see page 21).detail on one map and hide weather on the other map (see page 21).
Animate OnAnimate On::This function animates NEXRAD weather. When activated, a seriesThis function animates NEXRAD weather. When activated, a series
of NEXRAD frames appear, each displaying a different time in the lower left-handof NEXRAD frames appear, each displaying a different time in the lower left-hand
corner of the map. The map shown at top left displayscorner of the map. The map shown at top left displays -00:04, indicating that the
NEXRAD information in this frame is four minutes old. In animation mode, a total of
six map frames appear, beginning with the oldest to the most current weather data. On
average, the frames reveal data that are about five minutes apart.
Weather Legend: This function displays the color legend for the Pressure, Vis-
ibility, Temperature, Wave Height, Wave Period, and NEXRAD features. (Note: You
can also view the NEXRAD legend from the Weather submenu tab on the Main Menu
page.)
The NEXRAD weather data on this map is four minutes old, as is
indicated by -00:04.
Adjustment Menu for the
Map function
190-00336-00_0B.indd 10 8/17/2004, 9:56:33 AM

11
Weather Features
Weather Features
The following weather features are available along with a brief description of each. Note that the GDL
30/30A merely reports weather; it does not interpret weather data. Weather data that appears for each feature
comes from reputable weather data centers such as the National Weather Service and the Hydrometerologi-
cal Prediction Center. (See the XM WX Satellite Weather Web site at http://weather.xmradio.com/weather/
specifications.html for more information.) Any weather feature can change in appearance or interpretation if
the source that provides the information changes.
NEXRAD
NEXRAD is an acronym for NEXt Generation Weather RADar. The NEXRAD feature displays precipitation from very light rain and snow up to strong thunderstorms.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 11 8/17/2004, 9:56:37 AM

12
Storm Cells
The Storm Cells feature displays storms as well as the storm’s projected path in the immediate future. It
also shows the size of the storm cell. The direction of the red cone indicates the projected path of the storm
cell. The red bars that appear in the middle of the cone indicate where the storm will be in the future. Each
bar represents 15 minutes.
Weather Features
The red bars that appear in the middle of the cone in this
Cheyenne, Wyoming storm indicate where the storm will
be for the next 1 1/2 hours.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 12 8/17/2004, 9:56:38 AM

13
Weather Features
Lightning
Lightning strikes are represented by lightning bolt icons, as shown in the images below. Lightning
appears on the map if strikes have been detected within the last seven minutes.
This image displays lightning strikes on a map that also displays NEXRAD, storm cells, and wind.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 13 8/17/2004, 9:56:39 AM

14
Wind
The Wind feature shown below displays wind speeds and direction. Wind speed is represented by flags
on a wind arrow, where one big flag equals 10 knots and one small flag equals 5 knots. A darkened pennant
equals 50 knots. Wind direction is represented by the direction of the circle.
Weather Features
20-knot winds blowing to the Southwest.
In this example, NEXRAD data, storm cells, and lightning
are displayed in addition to wind. Note how the wind shifts
direction around this Midwestern storm mass.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 14 8/17/2004, 9:56:41 AM

15
Pressure
The Pressure feature below displays pressure readings in millibars. Isobars on the map show changes in
pressure. The closer the isobars are to each other, the faster the change in pressure.
Pressure units can be configured from the Main Menu page (go to the System tab and then to the Units
submenu tab). See your Chartplotter’s Owner’s Manual for more information.
Weather Features
NEXRAD data is displayed in addition to pressure.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 15 8/17/2004, 9:56:43 AM

16
Hurricanes
The Hurricanes feature shows the current position of a hurricane as well as its projected path (indicated
by a red line). The darkened squares that appear (as in the examples in the left-hand column below) along
the red line display the projected locations received from the National Hurricane Center. The Center provides
four forecasts at 12-hour intervals as well as a fifth forecast at a 24-hour interval.
Weather Features
In the example above, this hurricane is projected to travel
West-Southwest before moving in a Northwesterly direction.
The example below shows Hurricane Charley’s projected
path through Florida in August 2004. Wind and storm cells
are also visible.
In this example, NEXRAD data, wave height, and wind are displayed in addition to Hurricane Charley in
August, 2004.
projected path (red line)
projected location (darkened square)
190-00336-00_0B.indd 16 8/17/2004, 9:56:44 AM

17
Visibility
Visibility is the maximum horizontal distance that can be seen. Isobars on the Visibility feature show a
change in visibility. In the example below, visibility ranges from .5 miles to 3 miles.
Weather Features
The inset displays NEXRAD weather data in addi-
tion to visibility. This provides a clearer picture of
the true weather conditions in this area.
You can get a general idea of reduced visibil-
ity across a wide area when the map view is
significantly zoomed out, as shown in the image
above.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 17 8/17/2004, 9:56:46 AM

18
Fronts
The map below shows fronts positions as well as areas of high (H) and low (L) pressure for the United
States. Blue fronts indicate cold fronts, red fronts indicate warm fronts, and alternating red and blue fronts
indicate stationary fronts. Dashed orange lines indicate dry lines.
Weather Features
Alternating red
and blue fronts are
stationary fronts.
Blue fronts indicate
cold fronts.
190-00336-00_0B.indd 18 8/17/2004, 9:56:48 AM