The Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems
(ECDIS) with the official Electronic Navigation Chart was developed to fill the growing need to promote safe navigation.
ECDIS is approved by the IMO as a paper chart equivalent and vessels equipped with ECDIS need not carry paper chart for the voyage as required under SOLAS Convention.
The ECDIS is a synthesis of computer and digital-charting technologies. Its primary function is to capture, manage, select and display and integrated flow of information from a number of sources and display this information on a computer screen in a real time.
Much more than a paper chart displayed on a computer screen, the system produces a "live action" display of the ship's constantly changing position in relation to intended course, traffic and other hazards.
In its most sophisticated form the electronic chart revolutionizes navigation. Its display on a full colour high resolution computer screen all vital navigation data in "real time" (position, heading, speed, depth, radar image) superimposed on a seamless digital chart. Interfaced with navigational sensors such as GPS, ECDIS provides anti-ground warnings, 24-hour and all weather information and anti collision warnings (when interfaced with Automatic Radar Plotting Aid).
The system instantly signals any deviation from the pre-determined constantly updates times, distances and bearings to waypoints.
At all times the vessels position is indicated on the screen as a ship-shaped cursor, its movement updated every second, by differential GPS.
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