ECDIS

The primary function of the ECDIS is to contribute to safe navigation.

ECDIS Configuration:
The three critical aspects of an ECDIS are:
1) Interconnected with a backed up position fixing system.
2) Provided with aback up system compliant to IMO requirements.
3) Primary ECDIS to be connected to emergency power supply.

Optional, but common, interconnections of the ECDIS to other equipment are i) Gyro or magnetic
compass, ii) AIS, iii) Radar, iv) Echo sounder, v) Speed log.

Main Power 1 Emergency Power Main Power 2

ECDIS Electronic back up to ECDIS

AIS Radar 1 Radar 2 GPS 1 GPS 2 Log Gyro Echo

Sounder

There are two types of electronic charts:

1) Raster Chart:
It is the image of the paper chart displayed in digital format. This image can be shown at various
magnifications, allowing an overview of the complete chart through to a true scale image that can be
scrolled across the screen to show the area of interest. The chart may be described as an image made up
of a high density of dots on a regular grid, each dot is known as a picture element, the term normally
shortened to pixel. Each pixel is given a defined position in terms of latitude and longitude, therefore
the chart display system can overlay the chart image with other position related information.

2) Vector Chart:
In this technology a chart image is not stored, what is stored is all the basic information about the
charted features, effectively as a long list. In particular, this list includes all positional information of
features and objects in lat/long coordinates. All objects can be described by vector data, not just point
objects. This means for instance, that depth contours are represented by lines and channel separation
lanes by areas. A buoy for example, is stored as a detailed data with its lat/long, colour, shape, purpose
and other relevant information.

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Electronic charts data can be divided into three main categories:

1) Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) data, which is official vector data.
2) Raster navigational Chart (RNC) data, which is official raster data.
3) Private data. This is any data that does not meet the requirements of ENCs or RNCs and is typically
vector data issued by private companies. Privately prepared unofficial vector charts are called
Electronic Chart Systems (ECS). By IMO definition, an ECS is any chart that does not meet the
requirements of ECDIS.

Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC)

This is also ENC means the database , standardized as to content , structure and format, issued for use
with ECDIS by or on the authority of a Government authorized Hydrographic office or other relevant
government institution, and conform to IHO standards. The ENC contains all the chart information
necessary for safe navigation.
The vector data to be used with ECDIS is defined by International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) and is
called Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC), it is based on an IHO data standard known as S-57.
ENCs, the database for ECDIS is compiled to strict rules detailed by IHO in its digital document known as
S-57, this document is not aimed at use by the mariner. ENC data is compiled into ‘rectangular’ cells
aligned with constant latitude and longitude, that is, two meridians and two parallels. The cell
boundaries are chosen by the compiling hydrographic office. The data within a particular cell might not
cover the whole of its extent but the area actually covered is digitally defined within the cell data. This
allows for instance, two separate hydrographic offices to issue non-overlapping data, even though the
defined cell boundaries used by each hydrographic office may overlap or be identical. The ECDIS
automatically sorts out the correct display of data from the overlapping cells and so it is not a problem
for the user. The boundaries are agreed by the neighboring hydrographic offices, working within
principles defined in the Worldwide Electronic Navigational Chart data Base (WEND), which was set by
IHO to define the responsibilities of hydrographic offices for the production and distribution of ENCs.
The officially stated purpose of the WEND is to ensure a world-wide consistent level of high quality,
updated official ENCs through integrated services that support chart carriage requirements of SOLAS Ch
V, and the requirements of the IMO performance Standards of ECDIS. Although S-57 is the current
hydrographic data standard used for ENCs, the IHO is working on a new standard, known as the
Universal Hydrographic Data Model (S-100_, and the related Standard for Electronic Charts (S101).
These new standards are intended to support a great variety of data sources, products and services and
will eventually supersede S-57.

ENCs are produced at a compilation scale, which is decided by the hydrographic office developing the
particular ENC. It is simply based on what is sensible when taking into account the scale of survey
information within the ENC. The IHO recommends that the compilation scales are based on the radar
like ranges defined in below table.

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Selectable Range (NM) Standard Scale (rounded)

200 1:3,000,000
96 1:1,500,000
48 1:700,000
24 1:350,000
12 1:180,000
6 1:90,000
3 1:45,000
1.5 1:22,000
0.75 1:12,000
0.5 1:8,000
0.25 1:4,000

The compilation scale is generally understood to mean scaled to optimize the viewing capabilities in a
digital environment.
ENCs are assigned to one of six navigational purpose categories, with associated scale ranges, as shown
in below table.

Navigational Purpose Name Scale Range

1 Overview <1:1,499,999
2 General 1:350,000 – 1:1,499,999
3 Coastal 1:90,000 – 1:349,999
4 Approach 1:22,000 – 1:89,999
5 Harbour 1:4,000 – 1:21,999
6 Berthing >1:4,000

Each ENC cell has an eight character identifier. The producer nation is identified by the first two
characters, for example GB, NL, US. The third character shows the usage category (1-6) and the five
remaining numbers identify the actual cell.

System Electronic Navigational Chart (SENC):

An important aspect of an ECDIS is its ‘working database’. This is known as the SENC and is defined as a
database in the manufacturer’s internal ECDIS format, resulting from the lossless transformation of the
entire ENC contents and updates. It is this database that is actually accessed by the ECDIS. The SENC
may also contain information added by the mariner and information from other sources; this could
include manual updates, route plans, own ship track, AIS data, user textual and graphical annotations,
meteorological data and tidal vectors.

Raster navigational Chart (RNC):

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RNC is a facsimile of a paper chart originated by, or distributed on the authority of a government
authorized hydrographic office. The IHO has released a product specification for raster charts known as
S-61 which does not define the detailed structure of RNC data but puts certain minimum requirements
on it. The most commonly used raster data product is the Admiralty Raster Chart Service (ARCS) which
virtually has a global service.

The chart data typically arrives on board in CD/DVD, those containing Base Data and those containing
Update Data. Base Data disks are typically newly issued at intervals of about a year and can be
considered to be akin to the newly printed editions of paper charts. A single disk typically holds many
charts covering a wide area. Disks containing updates are frequently issued, typically once a week. These
provide a similar function to the paper chart corrections and amendments issues within Notices to
Mariners (NMs). In general, only chart data that has been licensed to be used on a particular vessel will
be accessible, this is called a digital permit system. The permit data can be provided on CD or by satellite
communications.

Chart Updates:
Once base charts are installed on the ECDIS, they need to be updated by loading the appropriate update
disk. These disks are almost always cumulative, which means that they contain all the update data from
previously issued disks, which are normally issued on a weekly basis and only the latest update disk is
required and not the previous update disks.
A System Raster Navigational Chart (SRNC) is defined by IMO as, a database resulting from the
transformation of the RNC by the RCDS to include updates to the RNC by appropriate means.

Orientation Modes:
It is an IMO requirement that ENC data can be displayed in North-up mode. Other modes such as
Course-up and Head-up are also allowed.

Motion Modes:
True motion mode is the mandatory mode for all ECDIS equipment. The chart remains stationary and
the position of own ship moves across the chart. When this position reaches the set distance close to
the edge of the display, the ECDIS will automatically reset the chart. The reset position may be user
defined at any point within the operational area of display. The Relative motion mode allows own ship’s
position to be fixed at a point on the display with the chart moving across.

Display:

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When using ENCs, the user has some control of the type of objects that are to be displayed. There are
three main options for setting of detail, known as Display Base, Standard Display and All Other
Information.
The display details or categories are often called layers because they can be linked to transparent
sheets, each ‘printed’ with information from a single category. It is not possible to remove or add
individual items, such as a particular buoy or an individual sounding; only categories of information can
be removed or added. A permanent indication will be given if any information is removed or added from
the Standard Display. It is an IMO requirement that ECDIS units can be set to the Standard Display by a
single operator action.

Display Base is considered to be the minimum information that is allowed to be displayed on the ECDIS.
More information may be added but the ECDIS will not permit a user to subtract detail from the display
base. It consists of:
 Coastline (high water)
 Own ship’s safety contour
 Isolated underwater dangers of depths less than the safety contour which lie within the safe waters
defined by the safety contour
 Isolated dangers which lie within the safe water defined by the safety contour, such as fixed
structures, overhead wires, etc
 Scale, range and north arrow
 Units of depth and height
 Display mode

Standard Display is normally used for navigation and consists of:

 The Display Base as defined above
 Drying line
 Buoys, beacons, other aids to navigation and fixed structures
 Boundaries of fairways, channels, etc.
 Visual and radar conspicuous features
 Prohibited and restricted areas
 Chart scale boundaries
 Indication and cautionary notes
 Ship’s routeing systems and ferry routes
 Archipelagic sea lanes

All Other Information consists of:

 Submarine cables and pipelines
 Details of all isolated dangers
 Details of aids to navigation

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 Contents of cautionary notes

 ENC edition date
 Most recent chart update number
 Magnetic variation
 Graticule
 Place names

Viewing Charts:
Charts can be viewed in either of the two main modes of ECDIS; Route Planning and Route Monitoring.
In both these modes, it is also possible to enter the geographical coordinates of any position and display
that position on demand. It is an IMO requirement that by a single operator action, it is possible to
access immediately the route monitoring display covering own ship’s current position. Own ship position
will normally be displayed on the largest scale chart available in the center of the chart display. If the
area covered by the ECDIS display includes waters for which no ENC at a scale suitable for navigation is
available, there will be an indication on the display. In this instance paper charts may be used or an
appropriate use of RCDS mode.

Scrolling and Zooming ENCs:

The smallest allowable chart display area for an ECDIS is 270 x 270 mm. This does not include the area
that displays the non-chart data, such as ship’s speed and course. It is a very small area compared to a
traditional paper chart and therefore full use must be made of scrolling and zooming functions to ensure
that good awareness of surrounding charted hazards is maintained.
By zooming on a displayed ENC, the viewed scale is obviously being changed. To keep users aware of the
scale of the actually displayed chart, a scale bar is always visible. This appears on the left hand of the
chart as a vertical line, divided into equal length segments (Fig). If the compilation scale is 1:80000 or
larger the scale bar will be shown in terms of distance. If smaller than 1:80000 it will be shown as
latitude angle and then is correctly known as a latitude bar (Fig). ENC cells have a compilation scale from
which the user can zoom in or out from. The compilation scale can be taken in a practical sense to mean
the scale that would be most normal to view the chart. However, there are many occasions when it is
more appropriate to view it at different scales. Zooming into a scale that is larger than the compiling
hydrographic office intended it to be used (over-scale) can be quiet dangerous. This is because charts
intended to be used at a large scale contain a lot of detail that is not included on smaller scale charts.
Since it would not necessarily be evident to the user that data was being used over-scale just by viewing
an ECDIS display, a specific indication on the display that the information is over-scale is given (Fig).
When the display area covers more than one cell, it can be the case that only some of the ENC data
shown is over-scale. In this case the ECDIS will automatically display a distinctive pattern of vertical black
lines in those areas (Fig). The pattern will generally only be displayed if it is shown at more than twice

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the compilation scale and other parts of the display are not over-scaled. If larger scale chart of the area
that includes own ship’s position are available, there will be an indication of this fact , generally
indicated by a magenta Frame around the area for which a larger scale is available (Fig). An increasing
number of ENC’s are compiled with scale related data. This means that certain data will only be
displayed over a range scales defined by the compiling hydrographic office by using the attributes
SCAMIN and SCMAX.

Scrolling and Zooming RNCs:

Typically RNCs can only be displayed at compilation size, that is approximately equal to the real image
size of the chart. Some systems can show intermediate settings but showed not show magnified images,
not least because the raster structure becomes visible. Navigation should only be performed at
compilation size. Usually, when using the normal zoom facilities on an ECDIS in RCDS mode, the system
will automatically select and display charts (if available) of the area with increased or decreased
compilation scale from that of the currently used chart

Presentation Library:
It is a large electronic document, which is available from the IHO on CD only. It is directed at ECDIS
manufacturers and hydrographic specialists and is not intended to be read by the end user. Presentation
Library uses the term ‘Conditional Symbolisation’ where the display is affected by automatic or user-set
conditions. For instance:
 Symbol colours are governed by the user set display settings of day, dusk or night.
 Certain classes of objects are only on display according to the user’s settings of Display Base,
Standard Display or All Other Information.
 The object attributes SCAMIN and SCAMAX determine the range of display scales for when the
object is displayed.
 Seasonal objects, such as buoys will be displayed only during the period set by the attributes PERSTA
and PEREND, for example, from April to September.
 New and discontinued navigational features such as buoys, beacons, traffic separation schemes, etc
have a start date (DATSTA) or an end date (DATEND), respectively.

Symbology:
ENC data has two formats of symbols; one is based on traditional paper chart symbols and the other as
‘simplified’ symbols; the later has been designed to be more distinguishable on an ECDIS display. There
are no preferred settings for above symbols and are left to the user’s discretion which can be specified
in the Bridge instructions on a vessel to avoid any confusion. The actual ENC symbols used are defined
within an IHO digital document (Presentation Library; S-52 Appendix 2). Users do not have to use this

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digital document as information of any charted object can be instantly displayed on ECDIS by selecting
the Pick Report. Secondly, an ECDIS also has a symbol library, where all symbols and their associated
text explanation can be displayed.

The ‘?’ symbol:

A magenta question mark is displayed for any object within the ENC which is not sufficiently described
to be symbolized, or for which no symbol exists in the symbol library. The Pick Report will always display
information attributed to the object within the ENC, even if marked b ‘?’. Under certain conditions a
question mark symbol may be displayed adjacent to a displayed symbol. This can occur when a
mandatory attribute is missing or if attributed inappropriately on the ENC. For instance, a harbor
authority may use a different colour from that normally used for a specific buoy, generating a question
mark because it is an unusual case.

Time varying objects:

Time varying objects may be included within the ENC. These objects have a temporary life span
associated with them, such as pipe and cable laying operations, or from new permanent objects that will
appear from a certain date; for instance a new buoy. In addition certain objects may only be in place
during certain periods of the year, such as buoyage in a channel that is iced-up in winter. There are
specific requirements concerning such time varying objects to be used by the internal checking facilities
of ECDIS during route planning or route monitoring, if it comes into effect during the dates specified for
the voyage.

Manual Updates:
ECDIS has the possibility of updates being applied manually by the user. This facility may be initiated by
shore authorities when there is an immediate chart update required. These may be communicated by
NAVTEX or other methods of receiving Maritime Safety Information or from T & P Notices. Manual
updates are limited to easy changes, such as those concerning point objects, simple lines and areas. The
ECDIS will continue to provide indications and alarms, as appropriate, on manually updated information.
The manual update facility will also allow the user to input information concerning the source data.
These updates and related information are stored separately to official updates and the information can
be listed on demand and also deleted from the display when superseded. The ECDIS will store
information concerning deleted manual updates for a period of at least three months. If a manually
updated object is consequently he subject of a normal official update, the manually updated
information will be deleted.

Display of detailed information (Pick report):

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When using ENCs much of the available information concerning objects is not displayed because it
would cause immense screen clutter. However the information is easily accessed on an ECDIS, typically
by placing the cursor over the object of interest and clicking the appropriate button on menu option to
‘pick’ the detailed information. The information available is oftrn shown in a temporary box or window
overlaying the chart or in a box outside the chart area.
Own ship dimensions:
Certain physical parameters concerning own ship need to be known by ECDIS. In particular this includes
length and beam, so that when the chart in use is of sufficiently large scale, the vessel may be shown at
scale size.
At large scales it is important that the position fix reference point on the ship is also defined. When
overlaying radar data, the position of the radar antenna(s) also has to be known so that the radar
overlay is accurately aligned onto large scale charts. Positions may be referenced to the ‘Consistent
Common Reference Point (CCRP), which is normally the main conning position. On some systems, there
may be more than one CCRP defined, in order to assist conning from secondary positions.
Required dimensional parameters for a set-up could therefore include the following:
 Length
 Beam
 Positions of primary and secondary navigation receiver antennas
 Position of radar antennas 1 and 2
 Conning positions CCRP) which may be one or more

Depth Indication:
An ECDIS using ENC data has a number of ways to help the user identify safe and unsafe depth of water.
There are three standard methods available to the user for highlighting available depth:
 Safety contour
 Safety Depth
 Deep and shallow area indication

Safety Contour: This is a user entered depth that ideally coincides with the contours available on the
ENC cell in use, giving an adequate safety allowance for the actual draught of the vessel. It will be shown
on the chart as bold black line and there is a distinctive change in colour of areas that are shallower and
deeper than the safety contour. If there is no contour in the ENC cell that corresponds to the user input
safety contour value, then the next deepest contour will be automatically selected by the ECDIS. If the
safety contour in use becomes unavailable due to a change in source data, the safety contour will
default to the next deepest contour. In both of the above cases, an indication to the user will be
provided by the ECDIS.

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Safety Depth: This is a user selected depth that will affect the appearance of spot soundings, if these are
selected to be displayed on the ECDIS. On a display configured for daylight viewing, these will appear
boldly in black when the spot sounding is less than the safety depth, signifying a potentially unsafe
situation. Spot soundings that are more than the safety depth will appear less dominantly in grey,
signifying safe depths.

Deep & Shallow Area: One of two schemes can be selected by the user to emphasize deep and shallow
areas by the use of colour. The areas are bounded by contours; not by spot soundings. The first scheme
uses just two colours – blue and white in daylight and blue and black at night. All areas deeper than the
safety contour are shown in white/black (depending on day/night settings); all areas shallower than the
safety contour are shown in blue. The second scheme uses four colours and contains two selectable
contours in addition to the safety contour – shallow and deep depth contour. For the day settings,
depths less than the shallow depth are shown in deep blue, extending from the drying line to the
shallow depth contour; depths between the shallow and safety contour are shown in light blue; depths
between the safety contour and deep contour are shown in grey; and depths greater than the deep
contour are shown in white.

Safety Domain:
ECDIS, except in RCDS mode, will automatically check that own ship will not be encountering charted
features that are a hazard to navigation. In route monitoring mode, it is always turned ‘ON’ and the
ECDIS will monitor the route automatically. However the user will have to specify a safety domain for
the vessel effectively contained by the following parameters:
 In depth – by the safety contour and safety depth
 In forward extent – by the look-ahead time or look-ahead range
 In lateral closeness – by a safe distance (best considered as a safe channel width or off-track limit)

Below is the minimum requirement as specified by IMO Resolution [MSC.232(82):2006]

 ECDIS should give an alarm if, within a specified time set by the mariner, own ship will cross the
safety contour.
 ECDIS should give an alarm or indication, as selected by the mariner, if, within a specified time set by
the mariner, own ship will cross the boundary of a prohibited area of a geographical area for which
special conditions exist.
 An alarm should be given when the specified cross track limit for deviation from the planned route is
exceeded.
 An indication should be given to the mariner if, continuing on its present course and speed, over a
specified time or distance set by the mariner, own ship will pass closer than a user specified distance
from a danger (eg obstruction, wreck or rock) that is shallower than the mariner’s safety contour or
an aid to navigation

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Zone Of Confidence:
Category Of Zone Of Confidence In Data (CATZOC) in S-57 is often known as Zone Of Confidence (ZOC).
The ZOC category allocated indicates that a particular ENC data meets minimum criteria for position and
depth accuracy. There are six category levels – A1, A2, B, C, D and Unclassified data not assessed).
Details contained in S-57 Appendix A

Route Check:
ECDIS provides facility for route check with ENC. Prior route check, confirm following safety limits have
been correctly inserted.
 Safety contour
 Safety depth
 Safety height (if available)
 Safe passing distance of charted hazards
Route check will see whether the route passes closer than the user-specified safe passing distance for
Caution Areas, Areas To Be Avoided, Traffic Separation Zone, Inshore Traffic Zone, Restricted Area,
Offshore Production Area, User-defined Areas To be Avoided, Military Practice Area, Seaplane Landing
Area, Submarine Transit Lane, Anchorage Area, Marine Farm/Aquaculture, Particularly Sensitive Sea
Area, etc.

Route Monitoring:
In route monitoring mode, the ECDIS will always display the selected route and own ship’s position.
Progress along the route will continue to be automatically monitored with alerting functions by ECDIS
from information contained within the largest scale ENCs loaded into the system. However, OOW should
never rely solely on automatic alerts for information and must always be totally aware of all the
immediate charted hazards. An alert may not give sufficient time or space to avoid the hazard in the
prevailing circumstances safely, particularly in the presence of other vessels. ECDIS information must be
continually verified by independent observations giving integrity to the displayed data. Compare GPS
positions with manual plots. Radar provides very useful integrity check at all times, comparison is
facilitated by radar overlay on ECDIS.

Charted Hazards & Alerts:

The display of ENCs should be set to show the appropriate detail of the prevailing circumstances. In
most circumstances this will be the Standard Display plus any additional information selected from ‘All
Other Information’. In some areas onl RNCs will be available and RCDS mode will need to be used, in this
case the limitations of the use of ECDIS in RCDS mode must be borne in mind. In RCDS, charted hazards

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will not be alerted to the user. However, alerts will be generated from the user-input information such
as; exceeding the cross-track error, approaching wheel-over point, entering a user-preset area, etc.
When using ENCs, an alert will be given when charted hazards enter the safety domain, even if the
hazard is not visible on the displayed portion of the ENC. The alert will be an alarm or indication,
depending on the circumstances and user settings. The look-ahead times/distances should be carefully
set considering the prevailing conditions and the ship handling capabilities.
a. An alarm will be given if own ship would cross the safety contour within the specified look-ahead
time. Generally this can also be set as a distance.
b. An alarm or indication, as set by the user, will be given if, within a specified time or distance, own
ship would cross the boundary area of a prohibited area oor a geographic area for which special
conditions exist.
c. An alarm will be given if the specified cross-track limit for deviation from the planned route is
exceeded.
d. An indication will be given if, continuing on its present course and speed, over a user specified look-
ahead time or distance, own ship will pass closer than a user specified distance from a danger (eg.
wreck, rock, aid to navigation) that is shallower than the mariner’s safety contour. This look-ahead
range, in time or distance will be the same that is set in (b) above.
e. An alarm will be given by ECDIS when the ship reaches a specified time or distance, set by the
mariner, in advance of as critical point that is passing abeam of the critical point on the planned
route.

Display of Radar & AIS targets:

Enhanced situational awareness can be obtained by judicious display of radar and/or AIS data on ECDIS.
However it is important to realize that an ECDIS is not designed to enable collision avoidance decisions
without prime reference to visually derived data and ti information viewed directly on the radar display.
When using target vector information it is important for the user to always know whether the displayed
vectors are relative or true and whether they are ground or sea stabilized.

Radar Target Overlay:

Offset may be observed in the Radar Overlay on the ECDIS, this may be due to fault in the combined
radar/ECDIS system.
If all targets appear to exhibit a fixed range discrepancy it could indicate that the radar has developed a
range error fault, this could be cross checked by overlaying data from a second radar.
If all targets appear to have a fixed bearing discrepancy, it could indicate:
 That the gyro or transmitting magnetic compass feeding the radar and ECDIS has developed a fault
or that an incorrect offset such as magnetic variation has been applied.
 That the radar has developed an azimuth error fault; may be at the antenna turning gear.
Above errors are outside the control of the equipment user and require servicing. However, knowledge
that a fault exists is of immense significance to safety, as appropriate cautions can be taken.

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Radar Image Overlay:

Its main use is to establish quickly whether ground-fixed targets, including coastlines are appearing in
their expected geographical position to aid the estimation of the integrity of the navigational situation.
Note that the coastline is the radar-apparent coastline, which is height related and except for special
situations, such as when cliffs form the recognized coastline, is unlikely to follow the charted coastline.
A radar image overlay can also be useful to identify which particular radar return is more likely to be
that from a particular charted object.

AIS target Overlay:

It must always be borne in mind that AIS targets alone do not form good basis for collision avoidance
decisions. However thy can usefully support decisions based on visual and radar derived data. Many
targets may not transmit AIS data or may transmit erroneous data. To avoid cluttering of ECDIS display,
unwanted target must be filtered. If filtering is in use, there must be a clear and permanent indication
that filtering has been applied and the filter criteria should be easily accessible.

Voyage Recording:
A minimum recording capability is provided for preserving a detailed record of the previous 12 hours
and a record of the track of the entire voyage at 4 hourly or shorter intervals. The ‘entire voyage’ is
defined as a maximum period of 3 months; hence a track record is stored for all voyages at least for a 3
month period. The detailed record of the previous 12 hours is recorded at 1 minute intervals and
includes a minimum, time, position, heading and speed. In addition it records the official data that has
been used including ENC source, edition, date, cell and update history. The recorded data may only be
reviewed but no alteration is possible. There is also the ability to store records permanently, if
requested by user for later use in investigations after an incident or for training purpose.

ECDIS Failure:
ECDIS receives data from various navigation sensors, it can also display misleading information
generated by these. Always apply consistency checks with other sources. By keeping a full awareness of
the current situation, anomalies should be readily identified. It is highly important that the navigator
maintains a good visual lookout.
When ECDIS is switched on, it goes through a series of checks and any detected anomalies will result in
an error message, when in operation too an ECDIS will self-monitor problems. However the equipment
is unlikely to be able to detect all faults, hence a continuous vigilance is necessary on behalf of the OOW.

Use of ECDIS in RCDS mode:

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The RCDS mode of ECDIS is only permitted to be used when the relevant chart information is not
available in the ENC mode. Good RCDS data source, such as ARCS have equivalent data distribution and
update process as the ENC. RNC data has equivalent accuracy and dependability as the paper charts
from which they are replicated. Not all RNC is referenced to WGS84. There are likely to be notes on the
chart that detail the datum issues. If there is a known correspondence between the chart datum and
WGS84, the system will inform the user that the chart is not WGS84 but will allow lat/long read-outs
either to WGS84 or to the chart datum. The position of own ship on the chart will always be shown
correctly. Do not attempt to alter the WGS84 datum on to the position fix system to match that of the
RNC chart datum. In fact the ECDIS equipment, from the data contained within the RNC, automatically
performs the datum conversion from WGS-84 or else it will provide a continuous indication that the
referencing cannot be performed.

RCDS Alerts:
Below are IMO requirement of certain alarms and indications which must be available in RCDS mode
Information Alert Type
Deviation from route Alarm
Approach to mariner entered feature, eg. area, line Alarm
Position system failure Alarm
Approach to critical point Alarm
Different geodetic datum Alarm or indication
Malfunction of RCDS mode Alarm or indication
ECDIS operating in the raster mode Alarm
Larger scale information available, or overscale Alarm
Larger scale RNC available for the area of the vessel Alarm

Limitations of RCDS mode:

 Unlike ECDIS where there are no chart boundaries, RCDS is a chart based system similar to a
portfolio of paper charts.
 RNC data itself will not trigger automatic alarms (eg. anti-grounding). However, some alarms can be
generated by the RCDS from user-inserted information. These can include: clearing lines, ship safety
contour lines, isolated dangers and danger areas.
 Horizontal datums and chart projections may differ between RNCs. Mariners should understand
how the chart horizontal datum relates to the datum of the position fixing system. In some
instances, this may appear as a shift in position. The difference may be most noticeable at grid
intersections and during route monitoring.
 Chart features cannot be simplified or removed to suit a particular navigational circumstance or task
at hand. This could affect the superimposition of Radar/ARPA.
 Without selecting different scale charts, the look-ahead capability may be somewhat limited. This
may lead to some inconvenience when determining and bearing or the identity of distance objects.

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 Orientation of the RCDS display to other than chart-up, may affect the reliability of chart text and
symbols (eg. course-up, route-up).
 It may not ne possible to interrogate RNC features to gain additional information about charted
objects.
 It is not possible to display a ship’s safety contour or safety depth and highlight it on the display,
unless these features are manually entered during route planning.
 Depending on the source of RNC, different colours may be used to show similar chart information.
There may also be differences in colours used during day and night time.
 An RNC should be displayed at the scale of the paper chart. Excessive zooming in or zooming out can
seriously degrade RCDS capability, eg. by degrading the legibility of the chart image.
 Mariners should be aware that in confined waters, the accuracy of chart data (ie. Paper charts, ENC
or RNC data) may be less than that of the position fixing system in use. This may be the case when
using differential GNSS. ECDIS provides an indication in the ENC which allows a determination of the
quantity of the data.

ARCS Charts:
ARCS charts can be displayed in three colour palettes – Daytime, Dusk and Night-time. Daytime has a
white background and is designed to be used in bright conditions. Dusk and Night-time have a black
background; however Dusk mode has a reduced intensity.
Below is a concise list of main information available to the user in addition to the chart image.
There will be permanently available display of:
 Chart number and country of origin
 Edition date
 Reference of the latest NTM included within the update
 Date of publication of the update CD
 The scale of the original chart
 The actual scale of the display
 The horizontal datum of the original chart, which is the datum of its graticules which are included as
part of the raster image
 The horizontal datum to which positions of the navigation receiver are referred. On many systems
this will be confined to be WGS84
 The source of any shift applied to convert WGS84 positions for plotting on the raster chart. This
includes if the datum shift was entered manually. If no shifts are available a warning will be given
 Units of depth, which for ARCS charts can include metres, fathoms and feet
 Special warnings, such as those regarding the survey reliability of older charts

In addition the following information is available for temporary display:

 Note and diagrams through an easily accessible index. These are in raster format and are part of the
original chart but the system enables easy access to these

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 Temporary and Preliminary NTM affecting the chart on display

A number of warning and information messages are also obligatory on systems displaying ARCS data,
for the following situations:
 Chart image is zoomed in – UNSAFE FOR NAVIGATION
 Chart image is zoomed out – UNSAFE FOR NAVIGATION
 This chart is not up-to-date – UNSAFE FOR NAVIGATION
 A more detailed chart is available for this area
 WGS84 positions cannot be related accurately to this chart
 Horizontal datum mismatch – Check navigation receiver settings

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Following points to be studied for better familiarization with onboard ECDIS equipment:
A) Basic operation of ECDIS:
1. Determine how to switch the ECDIS on and off.
2. Establish the function(s), position and general operation of the physical controls and switches,
including cursor control, and the access and selection of menu items.
3. Understand how to access the main menu and select menu options.
4. Determine the methods for setting day/night viewing modes, brightness, contrast and colour
correction (if available).
5. Determine how to switch between traditional and simplified symbology.
6. Determine how to put equipment in route-monitoring mode and route planning mode.
7. Determine the methods for scrolling and zooming charts, including determining the current scale of
displayed charts and setting the display to a particular scale.
8. Determine how to select the Display Base and Standard Display.
9. Determine how to display other information from ENCs, including the display of All Other
Information.
10. Determine how to check that information concerning own ship, such as dimensions are correct.
11. Determine how to select the safety contour and safety depth.
12. Determine how to select two or four colour contour mode.
13. Determine how to select deep and shallow area display options.
14. Determine how to set all the parameters concerning the safety domain.
15. Establish how alarms and other alerts are given by the ECDIS and understand the procedure needed
to acknowledge them.

B) Electronic Charts:
1. Determine how to access the chart directory and to identify whether charts are ENCs, RNCs or
unofficial.
2. Determine how to select a chart for display on the screen.
3. Determine how to load new chart license keys.
4. Determine how to load base data.
5. Determine how to check the update status of loaded charts.
6. Determine how to update charts using the normal cumulative update procedure.
7. Determine how to apply non-cumulative or electronically transmitted updates (if applicable).
8. Determine how to apply manual updates.

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C) Navigational Tools And Functions:

1. Determine how to display the legend of general information, eg. units for depths & heights, datuma,
etc.
2. Determine how to select information about an object.
3. Determine how Zone Of Confidence (CATZOC) information can be displayed.
4. Determine how to access the Presentation Library.
5. Determine what Marine Information Overlays (MIOs) are available and how to access them.
6. Determine the single operator action needed to remove MIOs from the display.
7. Determine the single operator action needed to set the Standard Display setting.
8. Determine how to view, add, edit and delete Mariner’s Notes.
9. Determine how to access all navigational elements and parameters, such as past track, vectors,
position lines, etc.
10. Establish the facilities provided for the measurement of range and bearing (eg EBLs and VRMs) and
determine their use.
11. Determine the method(s) used for inserting Parallel Index lines.
12. Determine what other navigational tools are available and how to access them.
13. Determine how to change to using the ECDIS back-up system.
14. Determine the procedure for identifying and reacting to sensor/GNSS failure.
15. Determine how to switch Chart text (text for charted objects) on and off.

D) Route Planning:
1. Determine how to load existing routes and enable editing.
2. Determine how to initiate a new route plan.
3. Determine how to initiate and plan alternate routes.
4. Determine how to save route plans.
5. Determine how to add, delete, and adjust graphically the position of waypoints.
6. Determine how to add, edit and delete critical points.
7. Determine how to display time varying objects relevant for the timing of the planned voyage.
8. Establish all the features available for planning routes, such as use of straight and curved segments,
wheel over positions, turn radii, and inserting pilotage aids.
9. Determine the ship’s procedures for displaying MSI, T&P Notices and other relevant notes into the
voyage plan.
10. Determine how to use the facilities for checking the planned route.
11. Determine how to load the planned route and alternatives into the back-up system.
12. Determine how to use RCDS mode where ENCs are not available and as appropriate (if available).

E) Route Monitoring:
1. Determine how to load a pre-planned route.

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2. Determine how to select the primary or an alternate route and how to distinguish between them on
the display.
3. Determine the single operator action that selects the charted display of own ship’s position.
4. Determine the available display orientation modes and how to switch between them (eg. North-Up,
Head-Up, Course-Up).
5. Determine the available display motion modes and how to select them and change the parameters,
such as the position of own ship on the display when Relative Motion is selected.
6. For display of Radar & AIS targets on ECDIS, determine what target vector modes are available and
how to switch between and differentiate between them.
7. Determine how to create time labels along the ship’s track.
8. Establish familiarity with the Route Monitoring display, including the display of position, heading,
course, speed and time.
9. Determine how to set the length of own ship’s vector and intermediate time marks.
10. Determine how to display Radar, AIS and MIOs.
11. Determine how to use the ECDIS as the input to a track-keeping autopilot if available.
12. Determine how to input LOP to form the reference for an estimated position.
13. Determine how to configure the ECDIS to use this reference to above LOP for subsequent EPs.
14. Determine how to switch to DR mode and to identify when the ECDIS is in DR mode.
15. Determine how to use and review facilities of the voyage recorder.

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Key Abbreviations & Acronyms used in ECDIS:

AIS Automatic Identification System

APC Appropriate Portfolio of (up-to-date paper) Charts
ARCS Admiralty Raster Chart Service
BOYCAR Cardinal Buoy object class acronym in S-57
BSB Data format for some Raster Navigational Charts
CATZOC Zone of Confidence Attribute acronym in S-57
CCRP Consistent Common Reference Point
CCRS Consistent Common Reference System
CDMA Code Division Multiple Access (digital modulation system)
ECDIS Electronic Chart Display & Information System
ECS Electronic Chart System
ENC Electronic Navigation Chart
HCRF Hydrographic Chart Raster Format (Data definition of ARCS charts)
MIO Marine Information Overlay
NM Notice to Mariners
RCDS Raster Chart Display System
RENC Regional Electronic Chart Coordination Center
RNC Raster Navigational Chart
S-52 IHO standard for ECDIS display & symbology
S-57 IHO standard for digital hydrographic data
S-61 IHO standard for RNCs
S-63 IHO standard for ENC encryption
SCAMAX Maximum Scale attribute in S-57
SCAMIN Minimum Scale attribute in S-57
SENC System Electronic Navigational Chart
VERDAT Vertical Datum object class acronym in S-57
WEND Worldwide Electronic Navigational Chart Database
ZOC Zone Of Confidence

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