how to plot course in opencpn

How are routes handled in OpenCPN?

In OpenCPN multiple routes can be handled in a couple of different ways. Many routes can be created in a session or imported into a session. The visibility of every route is controlled in the Route Manager. There is an “eye” to the far left on the line for each route.

Does OpenCPN come with charts?

Instructions - Text Step Two Download and Install Charts OpenCPN does not come with charts. Don't worry, we've provided a list ofchart sources. How to use the built-in chart installer. Instructions - Text or Video

What should I do with unused navigation objects in OpenCPN?

Any navigation object you create is saved by OpenCPN until you delete it. Having a lot of navigation objects makes for a cluttered chart display and slows down the program. Export unused objects to GPX files and delete them from OpenCPN.

What version of OpenCPN do I need to run oesenc?

Worldwide coverage is available using the OpenCPN 4.0.0 and above. oeSENC Vector Charts are available for OpenCPN 4.6 and up. The oeSENC pluginis needed. oeRNC Raster Charts are available for OpenCPN 5.0 and up.

How to make a route on OpenCPN?

Activating Routes and Active Route Console Right click on a an Active Route, brings up a menu with a choice for “Deactivate”. Right click on a an Active Route, brings up a menu with a choice for “Activate next waypoint”. Zero XTE only shows in the right click menu if there is a cross track error.

How do I add a waypoint in OpenCPN?

8.8 menu: Options>Display>Advanced) and click the box “Lock Waypoints”. Another alternative to move a single mark or waypoint is to right click on it, select properties and move the mark. Then close properties to lock the mark.

How to save on open cpn?

Click on the object, click on the “Export selected” button, name the file, and navigate to the folder in which you want it saved. If you save each route and track in its own file you can import them individually. There is more discussion of a strategy for creating routes at Create Route.

Is OpenCPN free?

OpenCPN is free, open source software for marine navigation. It is available for Mac OSX, Microsoft Windows, GNU/Linux, BSDs and Solaris.

Where can I buy OpenCPN charts?

NOAA's Chart Downloads For those interested in U.S. waters, raster charts and S57 vector charts are available as free downloads from NOAA. Find all NOAA charts, both raster (RNC) and vector (ENC) charts, for your region through NOAA OCS Website .

How do I update OpenCPN?

Unplug your network cable, to be on the safe side. If upgrading from a previous version of OpenCPN, there is no need to un-install the old version. Simply install the new version and it will upgrade OpenCPN, saving all your existing configuration and preferences.

How do I use OpenCPN?

Getting started using OpenCPN consists of 3 basic steps:Chart Installation of Charts to be read by OpenCPN (OpenCPN does not include charts)Charts Basic Features - Main Source for using charts.GPS Setup to communicate with your computer and OpenCPN (Optional, but very useful)

What are oeSENC charts?

"OpenCPN Encrypted System Electronical Nautical Charts" (oeSENC) are the most economical quality vector charts available. We receive S-57 data directly from Hydrographical Offices, encrypt them in the oeSENC format and deliver chart sets for their individual use in OpenCPN.

What is the latest version of OpenCPN?

OpenCPN Version 5.6. 2 Released OpenCPN is a cross platform electronic charting system (ECS) supporting a variety of cartography standards and hardware interface protocols. Versions are available for Linux, Windows, Macintosh, and ARM computer architectures.

Route Concepts

Understanding how OpenCPN handles waypoints, routes, and route points will help you manage those objects efficiently.

Create A Route

Press the button or use the short cut “Ctrl-R” to start the creation of a route. “Esc” ends the route. The cursor changes to a pencil ( ). Left click to create sequential numbered route points. The numbers will not be visible, but are available in the Route Properties Dialog, accessible through the right click menu or the Route Manager.

Modify a Route

To modify, add to, insert waypoints, remove or delete waypoints in a Route, Right Click on the Route Segment or at the Waypoint dependent on intent, and select the appropriate command.

Multiple Routes

In OpenCPN multiple routes can be handled in a couple of different ways. Many routes can be created in a session or imported into a session.

Exporting and Importing Routes and Marks

To learn how to export and import routes, waypoints, tracks, and layers read the Route & Mark Manager section of the manual. To open the Route & Mark Manager click the button.

Activating Routes and Active Route Console

Right clicking on the Route, changes the color from blue to orange and brings up a comprehensive menu. Clicking “ Activate Route ” or performing the same action through the Route Manager changes the route color to red and a new route information window appears on the right side of the display.

Active Route Console Window

The Active Route Console Window (upper right black box) appears in the screen when a Route is set to Active by selection of Activate from the Route Right Click menu.

Interface Tools

RotationCtrl Controls to rotate the charts in various ways. North up, South up, Course up, Heading up, Route up, Wind up, Tilt down, Tilt up. Rotate CCW, Rotate CW.

Chart Sources

VisitMyHarbor Has charts for UK, Ireland, Near Contenant, Iberia. VisitmyHarbor Other Sources See OpenCPN User Manual for other Chart Sources .