adding new chartplotter to nexus nx2 system

[CMF Hunter 27]

Feel like I have a part time job googling about adding a new raymarine axiom 9 chartplotter to an existing nexus nx2 server/multicontroller with wind/depth speed, instruments. I am going to come out and say I don't really know much about these electronics. This is a new used boat to me but it seems to have a functioning nx2 system providing wind depth speed ectera. I am also cheap.

I read alot about converting RS422 NMEA 0183 signals from the NX2 to the NMEA 2000 standard. I read about GND box which seems to only be for Garmin. I see on nx2 server module it has an NMEA 0183 output. To be honest, It's really all over my head.

I did an AI searches and it's basically saying I can add a new RMaxiom 9 chartplotter but it seems much more difficult when I read multiple forums.

Do I only need a Ray Marine Seatalk NG converter connected 0183 output or should I just save up and buy a new raymarine windpack and transducer in the spring instead of trying to cobble a system together. Like previously I stated I am trying to save some money that I don't necessarily have.
Has anyone connected an axiom chartplotter to an older nx2 system?

Thank you.
chris

 

[jssailem]

Boat electronics are a field of their own. Many old sailors choose a simple approach - minimize the gadgets and maximize the sailing - spend money on sails. Others want to spend cruising/sailing money on the electronics that will provide them all the digital information like their cars.

The challenge is electronics manufactures from the 80’s have been gobbled up by one of the biggies (i.e. Garmin) or just shut their doors. Your NX2 system was unique in 2000. Bought by Garmin in 2010. Now, no longer manufactured and parts are beyond rare to find.

Additionally even though NMEA 2000 and 0183 were identified as standards the makers of boat electronics introduced their own proprietary elements just enough to drive boat owners to drink before the sun goes over the yardarm.

Your predicament is you have an aged system (20 plus years) with still functioning parts that may continue to function or may crap out tomorrow. Think about it as one of the second generation Apple or PC units running 2010 operating systems.

It is a catch 22 problem. I would recommend you settle on a system and focus all acquisitions towards that system. This would lead me to suggest you look at a Garmin compatible monitor for your NX2 system.

Your NX2 controller says it has a PC connection, plus Bluetooth. Why not look at using a personal computer (i.e. laptop) that you own as your plotter. At least until you can afford the Garmin Based plotter or which ever system you decide serves your long term interest.

It is a fact of life that what ever electronics you buy will be said to be obsolete 9 months after you install it. This is marketing not fact.

 

[dlochner]

Whether you can connect the old NX2 system to a modern chart plotter or multifunction display depends on how Nexus implemented 0183 and what version of 0183 was used. Very early versions of 0183 are not fully compatible with later versions and are not easily converted to NMEA 2000. I ran into this problem when I wanted to upgrade my B&G system.

While it is nice to have wind, speed, and depth displayed on a Chartplotter, it is not necessary. Assuming the NX2 displays are working, use them. Eventually they will fail and then you can upgrade to newer sensors and displays and connect them to the chart plotter.