NorthStar 6000i User manual

6000i NETWORKED NAVIGATION SYSTEM
INSTALLATION MANUAL
Northstar
a unit of Brunswick New Technologies Marine Electronics
30 Sudbury Road
Acton, Massachusetts 01720
www.NorthstarNav.com
Service: 978/897-6600
Sales: 800/628-4487
Revision G
Part Number GM6KIM

Contents
SECTION ONE: Introducing the 6000i - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1
Checking the 6000i package - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 1
SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 6000i - - - - - - - - - - - - 5
Bench-testing the 6000i - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5
Mounting the 6000i - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 5
Wiring the 6000i - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 8
SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the antenna - - - - - - - - - 13
Choosing the best mounting location - - - - - - - - - - - - - 13
Mounting and wiring the AN150-P antenna - - - - - - - - - - 15
SECTION FOUR: Networking the Northstar 6000i - - - - - - - - - - 17
Restrictions on networking - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 18
Connecting a network of two devices - - - - - - - - - - - - - 19
Connecting a network of more than devices - - - - - - - - - - 19
Networking setup - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 17
SECTION FIVE: Checking out the system - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 27
Turning the 6000i on and off - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 27
Checking satellite status - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 27
Checking DGPS status - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 28
Installation-test checklist - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 28
SECTION SIX: Interfacing the 6000i system - - - - - - - - - - - - - 31
The NMEA connector - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 32
Configuring the RS-232 port - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 38
Using the Aux Port - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 39
Connecting the 6000i to a remote display - - - - - - - - - - - 43
Connecting the 6000i to a video camera - - - - - - - - - - - - 43
SECTION SEVEN: Troubleshooting and servicing the 6000i system - - 45
Troubleshooting installation problems - - - - - - - - - - - - - 45
Getting technical support - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 47
APPENDIX A: 6000i system technical specifications - - - - - - - - - 51

6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G Page 1
SECTION ONE: Introducing the
6000i
Checking the 6000i package
The Northstar 6000i is a networked color GPS navigation family that you can
connect to a wide variety of optional equipment, including the Northstar 491
echo sounder, Northstar radar, and VGA displays. Other optional interfaces include any NTSC- or
PAL-compatible video sources, such as a video camera, TV, DVD, or VCR. For installation instructions
for the Northstar 491 or Northstar radar, see the Northstar 491 Installation Manual (P/N GM495) or
the Northstar Radar Installation Manual (P/N GMKRadIM or GMRad2KIM).
Table 1: 6000i parts list
Qty Part name Part number
6.4” unit 8.4” unit 10.4” unit 12” Unit 15” unit
16000i unit 6K6 6K8 6K10 6K12 6K15
1 Flush-mount hardware kit 6K6FM-A 6K8FM-A 6K10FM-A 6K12FM-A
6K15FM-A
1 Flush-mount gasket — — — HG420 HG412
1 Flush-Mounting Template GT6K6 GT6K8 GT6K10 GT6K12 GT15
1 Yoke-mount kit 6K6YM-A 6K8YM-A 6K10YM-A — —
1 Sunshield XP793 XP784 XP789 XP821 XP817
1 WAAS/GPS antenna and cable AN150-P (AN-156-P Optional)
1 TNC connector for antenna cable — — — — KC285
1 10-foot power cable with 7-amp fuse WA535-B
1 10-foot NMEA interface cable WA215
1 Connector dust cover KC398
1Northstar6000i Installation Manual GM6KIM
1Northstar6000i Operator’s Manual GM6KUM
1 Quick Pocket Reference — — —
GM6K12QR —
1 Owner registration card GD671
1 Limited Warranty Statement GD683
1 Navionics slip sheet GM988
1 Parts kit (see next page) 6K-PK 15-PK

SECTION ONE: Introducing the 6000i
Page 2 6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G
To connect multiple units using Northstar’s N2 technology, Ethernet cables must be purchased
separately (see ”SECTION FOUR: Networking the Northstar 6000i” starting on page 17).
Table 2: Parts Kit contents for 6.4”, 8.4”, and 10.4” 6000i (P/N 6K-PK)
Qty Part name Part number
1 Spare fuse (7A fast-blow 5 x 20mm) FF211
4 Hex nut, 6-32, for flush-mounting HN300
4 Threaded stud, 6-32, for flush mounting HS610
4 Lockwasher, # 6, for flush mounting HW300
4 Flat washer, #6, for flush mounting HW405
1 TNC connector for antenna cable KC285
Table 3: Parts Kit contents for 12-inch 6000i (P/N 6K12-PK)
Qty Part name Part number
1 Spare fuse (7A fast-blow 5 x 20mm) FF211
12 Hex nut, 8-32, for flush-mounting HN421
12 Threaded stud, 8-32 x 2 1/4, for flush
mounting
HS605
12 Lockwasher, #8, for flush mounting HW400
12 Flat washer, #8, for flush mounting HW405
1 TNC connector for antenna cable KC285
Table 4: Parts Kit contents for 15-inch 6000i (P/N 15-PK)
Qty Part name Part number
1 Spare fuse (7A fast-blow 5 x 20mm) FF211
12 Hex nut, 8-32, for flush-mounting HN421
12 Threaded stud, 8-32 x 2 1/4, for flush
mounting
HS605
12 Lockwasher, #8, for flush mounting HW400
12 Flat washer, #8, for flush mounting HW405
1 TNC connector for antenna cable KC285

SECTION ONE: Introducing the 6000i
6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G Page 3
Table 5: 6000i Optional equipment
Part name Part number
Ethernet cables See Section 4
Remote control and batteries 6KRMC-A
Spare batteries for remote control BL134
Additional antenna cable WC255 or WC263
Northstar Echosounder
Northstar Radar

SECTION ONE: Introducing the 6000i
Page 4 6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G

6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G Page 5
SECTION TWO: Installing and
wiring the 6000i
Bench-testing the 6000i
Northstar recommends bench-testing the 6000i with a GPS antenna before installing it onto the
vessel. Bench testing ensures that the equipment is fully operational, and lets the unit collect the
current almanac and ephemeris data and a local position fix, which results in less on-board
installation time.
Mounting the 6000i
Choosing the best mounting location
Choose the mounting location carefully before you drill or cut. The 6000i should be installed in an
accessible, dry location 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. The display screen is high-contrast and
anti-reflective, and is viewable in direct sunlight, but for best results, install the 6000i out of direct
sunlight. The chosen location should have minimal glare from windows or bright objects. If the
6000i is yoke-mounted low, tilt the unit back for best viewing contrast.
WARNING! Before starting the installation, be sure to turn electrical power
off. 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 6000i’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 a 7-amp fast-blow fuse in the supplied power
cable. Using the wrong fuse can cause fire or damage to the
6000i.
CAUTION! Proper installation of the Northstar 6000i is critical to accurately receive
and effectively use GPS/WAAS signals under a wide variety of weather
conditions.
Keep the following safe compass distance from the 6000i: 1.0m
standard, 0.8m steering.

SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 6000i
Page 6 6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G
Mounting dimensions
Figures 1 – 5 show the overall unit dimensions.
9.1
6.25
1.8
3.12
7.5
10.1
6.4"
Figure 1: Dimensions (6.4” unit)
Dimensions in inches
11
7.6
1.8 3.12
12
9
8.4"
Figure 2: Dimensions (8.4” unit)
Dimensions in inches
13.5
12.5
8.75
1.8 3.12
9.75
10.4"
Figure 3: Dimensions (10.4” unit)
Dimensions in inches

SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 6000i
6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G Page 7
Flush-mounting
When flush mounting, leave sufficient clearance space behind the unit for all of the cables and
connectors. Clearance is also required on the right side of the unit for opening the chart cartridge
door (not necessary for the 12” or 15” units). Flush mounting requires good ventilation behind the
mounting panel. Poor ventilation may cause the 6000i to overheat, which, in turn, will cause the
screen brightness to dim. For overall width and height requirements, see the Northstar 6000i
10.5
4.4
14.0
10.5
12"
Figure 4: Dimensions (12” unit)
Dimensions in inches
 



Figure 5: Dimensions (15” unit)Dimensions in inches
(Flush-mount only)
(Flush-mount only)

SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 6000i
Page 8 6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G
Flush-Mounting Template, which you can use to drill the mounting holes and cut the mounting panel
in the exact recommended locations.
Use the supplied flush-mount template to cut the hole for the 6000i, and use the supplied gasket
between the 6000i and the instrument panel to help seal against water penetration. The use of
anti-seize compound on the flush-mount studs and nuts is recommended.
The parts kit contains the appropriate number of threaded studs, flat washers, lock washers, and hex
nuts for flush mounting.
Yoke-mounting
For recommended mounting clearances, see Figures 1 – 3 on the previous pages. Leave additional
clearance for opening the cartridge door on the right side of the unit. The 12- inch and 15-inch
models are designed for flush-mounting only.
When yoke-mounting, the four plastic “poker chips” are inserted into the holes in the unit and the
yoke. It may be helpful to apply a dab of RTV or other adhesive to keep them in place during
installation, especially if the unit will be removed and replaced frequently.
Wiring the 6000i
Avoiding cable wiring shortcuts
Most installation problems are caused by shortcuts taken with system cables. When wiring the
6000i, follow the guidelines below.
CAUTION! When flush mounting, be sure to mount the 6000i on a flat surface.
Mounting on a curved surface can result in water leaks. 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.
DON’T DO THIS!
• Don’t make sharp bends in the cables
• Don’t run cables in a way that allows water
to flow down into the connectors
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 install and
remove cables

SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 6000i
6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G Page 9
The interface connectors
Interface connectors are shown in Figure 6: ”Interface connectors,” below. The functions of these
connectors are described in Table 6. Interfacing is described in detail in Section Six, beginning on
page 31.
Table 6: Interface connector functions
Connector name Connector function(s) Connects to...
NMEA
(18-pin connector)
NMEA Port 1 input/output NMEA devices: autopilot, heading
sensor, etc.
NMEA Port 2 input/output Same as NMEA Port 1, or Northstar
radar
RS-232 Port SC-104, NMEA devices, or remote
power control
Honk alarm/200 ppnm Remote honk alarm, or speed
indicator
Ethernet
(RJ-45)
N2 Networking Another 6000i or other
N2-compatible device (N2 is
Northstar’s proprietary format)
GPS
(TNC coaxial 50 Ohm)
GPS antenna input AN150-P GPS antenna
POWER
GPS
ANTENNA
FUSE
(7 Amp)
NTSC
VIDEO
INPUT
NMEA ETHERNET AUX VGA
(video out)
6.4" unit shown (all units use same connector layout)
REAR VIEW OF 6000i
Figure 6: Interface connectors

SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 6000i
Page 10 6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G
Electrical power requirements
The 6000i is a negative-ground system that’s reverse-polarity protected. Power requirement is 10
VDC minimum to 36 VDC maximum, using at least 16-gauge connecting wire.
Connecting the 6000i to ship’s power
The 6000i is shipped with a 10-foot power cable that you can lengthen to a maximum of 25 feet:
• for a cable length up to 15 feet, use 16-gauge wire or heavier
• for a cable length from 15 to 25 feet, use 14-gauge wire or heavier
If you lengthen the power cable, use an external fuse at the battery end as an added safety
precaution. The fuse size should be chosen to be appropriate for the size of the smallest
conductor in the circuit. See the NMEA or American Boating and Yachting Counsel specifications to
find the correct fuse for your wiring.
For the best protection from noise, connect the power wiring directly to the battery or dedicated
electronics bus. The green ground wire should be connected directly to ship’s ground. The power
cable has an inline fuse to protect the vessel’s wiring, and prevent electrical fires and damage to the
unit. If you shorten or lengthen this cable, be sure to keep the inline fuse intact (or provide circuit
breaker protection).
Spare in-line fuses are not supplied with the unit and should be purchased locally to avoid loss of
function.
AUX
(6-pin connector)
RS-422/NMEA input/output Northstar 491 echo sounder, or
older Northstar units for database
transfer
POWER (3-pin
connector)
Power input 10 to 36 VDC, 30 watts
VGA (15-pin D
connector)
Video output Remote display
NTSC VIDEO INPUT
(BNC coaxial 75 Ohm)
Video input Any NTSC-compatible video source
CAUTION! To protect the power wiring, Northstar strongly recommends
that you connect the 6000i to a circuit breaker or 7-amp fuse
located at the power source (battery or switch panel).
Table 6: Interface connector functions (continued)
Connector name Connector function(s) Connects to...

SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 6000i
6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G Page 11
Connect the wires in the power cable as follows.
• red →positive (+)
• black →negative (–)
• green →ship’s ground
NOTE: Grounding the 6000i to the vessel usually reduces 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.

SECTION TWO: Installing and wiring the 6000i
Page 12 6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G

6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G Page 13
SECTION THREE: Installing and
wiring the antenna
Choosing the best mounting location
Before you drill or cut, choose a mounting location that meets the following criteria. The antenna
should be mounted:
• where there’s enough mounting clearance to easily connect the cable
• low on the vessel, and near the center, since motion caused by the vessel’s roll, pitch and
yaw can degrade speed-over-ground (SOG) and course-over-ground (COG) readings
• away from the radiation plane of any INMARSAT or radar antennas, and away from any
other high-power transmitting antennas (see Figure 8 on page 14)
• high enough to provide an unblocked view of the sky in all directions, minimizing or
eliminating any obstructions that block the antenna’s view of the sky (the system can use
satellites down to the horizon)
• away from masts or objects that could “shadow” the antenna
To avoid mutual interference among different antennas on the vessel, see the recommendations in
Figure 8 below. This figure shows the minimum distances that should separate GPS/WAAS antennas
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.
Before permanently installing the antenna, try temporarily installing it and using the 6000i to see if
the location works well.
Do not open the antenna (other than removing the top to install). There aren’t any serviceable parts
inside. Unauthorized tampering will automatically void the warranty.
Antenna cable lengths
You must observe the min/max cable length requirements for the GPS antenna shown in Table 7.
Don’t lengthen on shorten the cable beyond these limits. The AN150-P antenna is normally shipped
with the 6000i. If you need to use a longer cable than can be used with that antenna, contact the
factory about substituting a higher-gain AN-156-P antenna.

SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the antenna
Page 14 6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G
Figure 8: Recommended separation distances between antennas
Table 7: GPS antenna cable lengths
Antenna Minimum length Maximum length
AN150-P (standard) 20 feet 50 feet
AN156-P (optional) 50 feet 100 feet
Figure 7: Northstar AN150-P antenna

SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the antenna
6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G Page 15
Mounting and wiring the AN150-P antenna
The AN150-P is mounted onto a standard antenna mount. To complete this installation, you’ll also
need a standard antenna mount and extension mast and/or adapter with a side exit for the coaxial
cable. A 50-foot length of RG-59 coaxial cable is supplied with the AN150-P antenna.
Figure 9: AN150-P antenna
Tools needed:
• flat-bladed screwdriver
• knife blade
• Amphenol crimp tools
One TNC connector is pre-attached to the antenna-end of the RG-59 coaxial cable. Connection to
the antenna itself involves the following steps:
1. Remove the antenna base from the top by loosening the four captive screws in the
base.
2. Screw the base onto the top of the antenna mount (standard 1"-14 marine thread).
3. Feed the open end of the supplied coax cable down through the antenna base and
through the hollow core of the antenna mount.
4. Affix the TNC connector-end of the coax to the mating connector inside the upper half
of the GPS antenna. Be sure to tighten it securely, as vibration can loosen the
connection over time. In addition, protect the coax-to-antenna connection with liquid
electrical tape or self-vulcanizing electrical tape.
5. Align the upper half of the antenna with the bottom half and tighten the four screws.
Be careful not to over-tighten the screws, as this may deform the watertight seal
between the two antenna halves.
Next, we’ll install the male TNC connector.
O-RING
ADAPTER
ANTENNA
3.00
.91
1.82 CAPTIVE SCREW

SECTION THREE: Installing and wiring the antenna
Page 16 6000i Installation Manual, Rev. G
6. Strip cable jacket to the following dimensions (in inches), as illustrated in Figure 10:
”Stripping the coax cable jacket,” below: a=0.57, b=0.34, c=0.14, d=0.43. Do not nick
the center conductor.
Figure 10: Stripping the coax cable jacket
7. See Figure 11: ”Flared cable braid,” below: Slide outer ferrule on as shown. Slightly flare
the end of cable braid, as shown, to facilitate insertion into inner ferrule.
Figure 11: Flared cable braid
8. Place center contact onto center conductor so that it butts against the cable dielectric.
Crimp the contact in place using Amphenol tool handle #227-944 and Cavity B of Die
Set 227-980-3.
9. Install cable assembly into body assembly so inner ferrule slides over dielectric and
under braid. Push cable assembly forward until contact seats in insulator. Slide outer
ferrule over braid and up against connector body. Crimp outer ferrule using Cavity A
of tools specified above. The connector ferrule-to-cable junction can be sealed and
protected using adhesive-lined heat shrink.
Figure 12: Completed TNC connector
10. Connect the antenna to the female TNC connection at the back of the unit.