Yacht Devices YDNU-02RM User manual

User Manual
NMEA 2000 USB Gateway YDNU-02
also covers models
YDNU-02RM, YDNU-02RF, YDNU-02NM, YDNU-02NF
Firmware version
1.00
2017

© 2017 Yacht Devices Ltd. Document YDNU02-001. April 20, 2017. Web: http://www.yachtd.com/
NMEA 2000® is a registered trademark of the National Marine Electronics Association. SeaTalk NG
is a registered trademark of Raymarine UK Limited. Garmin® is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd.
ActiSense® is a registered trademark of Active Research Ltd.

Contents
Introduction 4
Warranty and Technical Support 6
I. Product Specication 7
II. Installation of Device and Connection to NMEA 2000 Network 9
III. Installation of USB Drivers and Connection to PC 12
IV. LED Signals 20
V. Conguration of Device Operation Modes 22
VI. Terminal Access to Service Menu 24
VII. Service Menu Commands and Device Settings 27
VIII. Recording of Diagnostics Data 34
IX. Firmware Updates 36
X. Programming Considerations 38
APPENDIX А. Troubleshooting 40
APPENDIX B. Device Connectors 41
APPENDIX С. NMEA 2000 Messages Supported by Device 42
APPENDIX D. Conversions Between NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 43
APPENDIX E. Format of Messages in RAW Mode 48
APPENDIX F. Format of Messages in N2K Mode 50
Package Contents
Device 1 pc.
This Manual 1 pc.
USB Cable not supplied
NMEA 2000 Drop Cable not supplied
Note: Device can be connected to the network backbone directly, without a NMEA 2000 drop cable.

— 4 —
Introduction
The NMEA 2000 USB Gateway (hereinafter Gateway or Device) allows you to see data from
a NMEA 2000 marine digital network on a PC, laptop or tablet PC with Microsoft Windows, Mac OS
or Linux operation system. With it, you get marine network data including vessel course, speed, position,
wind speed and direction, water depth, AIS messages from vessels and aircrafts and other navigation data
in PC applications like OpenCPN, Coastal Explorer, Polar View, OpenSkipper, etc.
The Device works as a bi-directional gateway so it is also possible to send messages from PC applications
to the NMEA 2000 network. That allows, for example, sending of AIS data from a PC USB receiver
to a chart plotter, as well as control over the autopilot and the vessel’s other equipment. It also supports
using a PC as an 0183 to NMEA 2000 converter if you have some NMEA 0183 equipment connected
to one of the other PC ports.
The Device can be congured to work in one of the following operation modes:
• 0183. In this mode, the Device performs conversion from NMEA 2000 (binary protocol)
to NMEA 0183 (text based protocol) and vice versa. NMEA 0183 is a very old and very popular
protocol supported by virtually all marine PC applications. Conversion from NMEA 2000 covers
all signicant data, including AIS (see Appendix C for details).
• RAW. Device sends all messages from NMEA 2000 to PC and vice versa in readable text format,
similar to the format of NMEA 2000 logs used in chart plotters (see examples in Appendix E).
This format can be useful to diagnose a network or to create your own applications, but
it is not supported yet in any popular PC navigation software.
• N2K. Device sends all messages from NMEA 2000 to PC and vice versa in a binary form and
is compatible with Coastal Explorer, Polar View, OpenSkipper and some other marine software.
The protocol is very similar to Garmin Serial Protocol and partially compatible with ActiSense
NGT protocol (see Appendix F for details).
• AUTO. In this mode, the Device analyzes the connection with the PC application and automatically
chooses one of the three modes above for the session. Devices with the factory settings use this mode
and we recommend keeping this setting.

— 5 —
The Device connects to PC by USB cable and is compatible with USB 1.1 and higher. At the software level,
the Device is a virtual COM port (USB device class 2, subclass 2). In Mac OS X, Linux and Windows 10,
such devices do not require a special driver; the operating system automatically uses a system driver.
In older Microsoft Windows versions, you will need to install a driver.
The Device does not require any special software. You can select the preferred operation mode or initiate
recording of diagnostics data using an operation system command line. To update the rmware, you
just need to send an update le to the Device’s port with a “copy” (MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows)
or “cp” (Linux and Mac OS X) command. With any terminal program, you can get access to a service menu,
where you can congure lters for received and transmitted messages and tune some other settings.
The Gateway:
• can be used in any operation system;
• does not require special driver software;
• all protocols are open and described in this Manual;
• in N2K and RAW modes, a Device can pass any message (including proprietary messages) between
NMEA 2000 and a PC application;
• in 0183 mode, provides compatibility with very old marine applications;
• supports rmware updates and diagnostic data recording;
• provides high-voltage galvanic isolation between NMEA 2000 and USB interfaces;
• employs an IP67 waterproof USB connector (not in all models) for use outside.
We hope that it is the best gateway that you’ve ever tried. Thank you for purchasing our product
and happy voyages!

— 6 —
Warranty and Technical Support
1. The Device warranty is valid for two years from the date of purchase. If a Device was purchased
in a retail store, the sales receipt may be requested when applying for a warranty claim.
2. The Device warranty is terminated in case of violation of the instructions in this Manual, case
integrity breach, or repair or modication of the Device without the manufacturer’s written
permission.
3. If a warranty request is accepted, the defective Device must be sent to the manufacturer.
4. The warranty liabilities include repair and/or replacement of the goods and do not include the cost
of equipment installation and conguration, or shipping of the defective Device to the manufacturer.
5. Responsibility of the manufacturer in case of any damage as a consequence of the Device’s operation
or installation is limited to the Device cost.
6. The manufacturer is not responsible for any errors and inaccuracies in guides and instructions
of other companies.
7. The Device requires no maintenance. The Device’s case is non-dismountable.
8. In the event of a failure, please refer to Appendix A before contacting technical support.
9. The manufacturer accepts applications under warranty and provides technical support only
via e-mail or from authorized dealers.
10. The contact details of the manufacturer and a list of the authorized dealers are published
on the website: http://www.yachtd.com/.

— 7 —
I. Product Specification
Figure 1. Drawing of YDNU-02RF and YDNU-02NM models of Gateway
Our devices are supplied with different types of NMEA 2000 connectors. Models containing R in the sufx
of model name are equipped with NMEA 2000 connectors compatible with Raymarine SeaTalk NG. Models
containing N in the sufx are equipped with NMEA 2000 Micro Male connectors. See connector drawings
in Appendix B.

— 8 —
Gateways are equipped with high-quality USB Type A connectors with gold-plated
contacts. Model containing M in the sufx of the model name are equipped with
a male connector and must be used in dry place inside the cabin. These models
are designed for direct connection to a PC USB port (not waterproof). Models with F
in the sufx are equipped with a female connector with a protective cap and
a 1/2 bayonet locking mechanism. It ensures a IP67 waterproof connection (see chapter II).
Device parameter Value Unit
Average current consumption from USB (see note 1) 35 mA
USB interface specication supported 1.1, 2.0, 3.0 —
USB Device VID / PID 0483 / A217 hex
USB connection waterproof rating (see note 2) IP67 —
Supply voltage from NMEA 2000 network 7..16 V
Current consumption from NMEA 2000 network 13 mA
Load equivalency number 1 LEN
Galvanic isolation between NMEA 2000 and USB 2500 V
RMS
Cable length (between case and connector) 450 mm
Device case length 54 mm
Weight (models RM, NM / RF, NF) 37/51 g
Operating temperature range —20..+55 °С
Note 1: The Device is powered from the USB port, the power supply from the NMEA 2000
network is used for the isolated part of the network transceiver only.
Note 2: For YDNU-02RF and YDNU-02NF models, use YU-USB cables (not supplied with
the Device, see chapter II).

— 9 —
II. Installation of Device and Connection to NMEA 2000 Network
The Device requires no maintenance. When deciding where to install the Device, choose a dry mounting
location. Avoid places where the Device can be ooded with water, as this can damage it.
The USB connector of YDNU-02RF and YDNU-02NF models may be mounted outside. In this case,
using YU-USB2-CPI-01-100 or YU-USB3-CPI-01-100 cables ensures an IP67 waterproof connection.
It is equipped with a protective cap used when no cable is connected (the connector is also compatible
with general USB Type A cables). You can nd the nearest supplier on the Internet by searching for
the cable model or getting a local supplier contact from manufacturer: http://www.cnlinko.com/
Figure 1. Mounting of YDNU-02RF and YDNU-02NF connectors on a bulkhead

— 10 —
When mounting on a bulkhead up to 7 mm, a hole only 25 mm in diameter is required to install
the connector. In case of wider bulkheads, a groove of 33 mm diameter at least is required. The groove
(and the hole) can be made with an inexpensive wood drill available world-wide (see Figure 2).
Figure 2. Inexpensive wood drill
YDNU-02RM and YDNU-02NM USB connectors must be used inside. These models are equipped
with USB Type A Male connectors and designed for direct connection with a PC USB port (not waterproof).
The Device is directly connected to the NMEA 2000 network backbone without a drop cable. Before
connecting the Device, turn off the bus power supply. Refer to the manufacturer’s documentation
if you have any questions regarding the use of connectors:
• SeaTalk NG Reference Manual (81300-1) for Raymarine networks
• Technical Reference for Garmin NMEA 2000 Products (190-00891-00) for Garmin networks
After connecting the Device, close the lock on the connection to ensure it is water resistant and rmly
secured.
The Device is powered from USB, the power supply from the NMEA 2000 network is used for the
isolated part of the network transceiver only. If you have no laptop or PC, you can power the Device with
any USB power adapter (not supplied with a Device) for test purposes.
When the USB cable is plugged in, the Device LED will signal with one ash with a duration of one half
second (see chapter IV for details) and the Device should appear in the list of NMEA 2000 (SeaTalk NG,
SimNet, Furuno CAN) devices or in the common list of external devices on the chart plotter (see Figure 1.
in chapter IX). Usually, access to this list is in the Diagnostics, External Interfaces or External devices menu
of the chart plotter.

— 11 —
The Device allows sending of messages from PC applications to a NMEA 2000 network.
Product misuse or PC software bugs can cause ooding of the marine network or sending
of incorrect messages to the network and can lead to malfunction of critical ship systems. You
must be sure that your software functions properly before a sea trial.
If you do not plan to control the marine systems from PC applications, it is recommended to block
all outgoing PC application messages with YDNU SILENT ON command (please, see chapter V for details).

— 12 —
III. Installation of USB Drivers and Connection to PC
The Device is connecting to USB port of a PC and is compatible with USB 1.1 protocol (1998) and later.
Therefore, it is compatible with all modern laptops and PCs. The Device is powered from the USB port
and you will see LED signals after connection (otherwise it means that the cable or USB port is damaged).
At the software level, the Device is a serial port (Virtual COM Port; USB device class 2, subclass 2). Such
devices do not require a special driver in Windows 10, Mac OS X and Linux; these operating systems
automatically use a system driver. In older Microsoft Windows versions, you should install a driver
(.INF le only, no code) which will tie the standard USBSER.SYS driver with a Device.
Serial ports are not intended for simultaneous use in multiple applications. If you can’t open
the Device’s port in an application, it can means that it is already opened in another one. This
limitation can be avoided with 3-rd party software.
In Microsoft Windows you must set the COM port number below 10 (COM1..COM9) for Device.
Otherwise, some applications will not be able to open the port and you will unable to manage
Device from command line (see chapter V). The COM port number may change each time
when you plug in the USB device into a new USB port. When a USB device is plugged into
the USB port where it was used previously, the operation system tries to assign the same
COM port number.
Connect the Device to a PC USB port and wait while the operation system on the PC searches and installs
a driver. The following sections contain important details about driver installation and Device conguration
in: Microsoft Windows 10, previous Microsoft Windows versions (Windows 7, Windows 8 and Vista),
Mac OS X, and Linux (Ubuntu).
Please read the section about your operation system carefully.
1. Microsoft Windows 10
Open “Device Manager” in the “Computer Management” applet of the Control Panel, and expand
the “Ports (COM & LPT)” as shown in the picture below.

— 13 —
Figure 1. Windows 10 with a connected Device
You will see one or more USB serial devices. You can eject the USB cable to detect which one
is NMEA 2000 USB Gateway.
Please remember the port number which was assigned automatically to the Device. If the port number
is above COM9, you must change the port number to COM1 — COM9. Open the device’s properties, switch
to the “Port Settings” tab, and click the “Advanced…” button. Select another port number in the bottom left
corner (see Figure 2). Usually you can ignore the “in use” mark near the port number, it means that this port
was assigned to some other device previously; some computers have dozens of ports “in use” when actually
there are no devices connected.

— 14 —
Figure 2. Advanced Settings of COM port
Port speed and related parameters have no practical effect on USB serial devices, so you can leave
the defaults for these parameters.
After changing the COM port number, you need eject the Device from the USB port and insert it back. Until
doing this, applications may fail to open the Device’s port.
2. Other Microsoft Windows versions
Open the “Device Manager” in the “Computer Management” applet of the Control Panel. If the Device
appears in the “Other devices” section after connection and has a yellow notication sign, then you need
to install a driver. You need only the .INF le (no code installation is required) which will link the Device
with the standard USBSER.SYS driver of Microsoft Windows.

— 15 —
Figure 3. Windows 7 requires installation of driver
There are two options to get a driver for the Device:
• you can download a driver from our web site: http://www.yachtd.com/downloads/USBDRV.zip
• or you can download the Virtual COM Port driver from the STMicroelectrionics web site
http://www.st.com (type "STM32 Virtual COM Port Driver” in the search box on the site).
You should extract les from the ZIP archive to the disk folder.
Select “NMEA 2000 USB Gateway” and open the “Action \ Update Driver Software…” menu. Select
“Browse my computer for driver software” and “Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer”
in the opened window. Then select “Ports (COM & LPT)” as the device’s type (see Figure 4).

— 16 —
Figure 4. You should select “Ports (COM & LPT)”
When the device type is selected, you should select “STMicroelectronics” as the manufacturer
(the manufacturer of the Device’s core chip) and “STMicroelectronics Virtual COM Port” shown in Figure 5.
If you have no “STMicroelectronics Virtual COM Port” in the list, click the “Have Disk…” button and specify
the folder with the previously extracted drivers (you should navigate to the subfolder that corresponds
to your operating system with a le named STMCDC.INF).

— 17 —
Figure 5. Driver selection
When the installation is done, please check an assigned COM port number. If the port number is greater
than COM9, you must to change it (please see the “Microsoft Windows 10” section of this chapter).
3. Mac OS X
After connecting the Device, click on the Apple icon and select the “About This Mac” menu item. Click
the buttons “More Info…” and “System Report…” in the opened window. Locate “NMEA 2000 USB Gateway”
in the USB subsection of Hardware section, as shown in Figure 6.

— 18 —
Figure 6. System Report on Mac OS X
This gateway has a serial number of 00090001, and the Device’s port to use in applications is:
/dev/cu.usbmodem00090001
You can type the following command in the terminal to check the port name:
ls /dev/cu.usbm*
For a Device with serial number 00090001, the command’s output will be:
/dev/cu.usbmodem00090001

— 19 —
4. Linux (Ubuntu)
The Device works with a system CDC ACM driver. After connection of the Device, type the following
command in the terminal:
dmesg
The output’s tail contains the Device’s properties and port name:
[98.454005] usb 2-2.1: Product: NMEA 2000 USB Gateway
[98.454009] usb 2-2.1: Manufacturer: Yacht Devices Ltd.
[98.454013] usb 2-2.1: SerialNumber: 00090001
[98.461125] cdc_acm 2-2.1:1.0: ttyACM1: USB ACM device
The port name for use in applications is /dev/ttyACM1 (printed in the last line of the output). You can type
the following command in the terminal to check the port name:
ls /dev/ttyA*
Note that after connection, the modem manager can open a Device for a minute and the Device
will not be available for use in other applications at this time. In this case, you can instruct the modem
manager to ignore the Device using the USB identiers of the product (VID and PID):
echo ATTRS{idVendor}==\"0483\" ATTRS{idProduct}==\"a217\",
ENV{ID_MM_DEVICE_IGNORE}=\"1\" > /etc/udev/rules.d/ydnu.rules
sudo udevadm control –reload

— 20 —
IV. LED Signals
The Device is equipped with a bi-color LED that indicate the Device’s state. Note, serial devices
are intended for use by one application at a time and when the device is used in one application, you cannot
use it in another application or send a command from the console (this is described in the next chapter)
or update the rmware.
LED signals during a rmware update are described in chapter IX.
Table 1. Signals during a normal operation
LED Signal Device State
One 0.5 second signal when
USB cable is connected
Device is powered. RED signal indicates that “silent mode” is active
and Device can send data to PC only, GREEN that Device in normal mode
and can send data in both directions (see chapter V).
Two 0.5 second signals
within a 3 second period
Device is connected to PC, port is not opened by an application. First
signal is GREEN if data from NMEA 2000 are received during the
period, RED otherwise. Second signal is GREEN if no data transmitted or
received over USB, RED otherwise.
Four very rapid signals with
a period of 1.5 second
Port is opened by an application. First signal is GREEN if data was
received from NMEA 2000 during the period (otherwise RED). Second
is GREEN if nothing was transmitted to NMEA 2000 by the Device
during the period. Third is GREEN if data was transmitted to PC during
the period. 4th is GREEN if no data was received from PC during
the period.
Constant GREEN signal Device can not send data to application more than 3 seconds (application
hangs), but port is still opened by application. Connection with
PC application detected by the state of DTR signal.
One-second GREEN signal Operation mode command is received and accepted (see the next chapter
for details).