Raystar 120 (Raymarine) and Raychart 425 "NO FIX" problem

[jviss]

Just this season, after 4 years of no problems, my Raymarine chartplotter started acting up. When switched on it takes a long, long time to get a fix (up to 30 minutes), and it occasionally loses it, too. The chartplotter seems O.K., still remembers waypoints, etc. I'm in touch with Raymarine but they ar esaying I need return the unit. Anyone else experience this? What was the cause?Thanks,jv

 

[Rick D]

Yup, Return The Unit

They have an extended warranty on the antenna. I had mine replaced; same issues as you. This does not apply to all of them, just a certain series run. In this case, 'No Fix' has multiple meanings. Also, I note they have a new generation of antenna now. Must be an updated design. Good luck, Rick D.

 

[Tom s/v GAIA]

They probably need to replace the

CMOS battery. Just had that done to my ICOM unit.Tom s/v GAIA

 

[muised]

Same Problem

I had exactly the same problem, only it happenned when I purchased my RC400. Some days it would work for 6 hours no problem, then no fix every five minutes. I never seemed to have more than 3 or 4 sats in the GPS setup screen. Returned it for a replacement and the difference is dramatic. If you have the chance to return it do so, otherwise there is a software update available on Raymarine's web site which may help.

 

[jviss]

Update on Raystar 120

I've received a response from Raymarine regarding my "NO FIX," slow fix problem, in fact we've exchanged a few notes. As it stands I must return the sensor unit. Incidentally, it turns out there are memory batteries in both the Raychart 425 display unit and the Raystar 120 NMEA GPS Sensor. The batteries are soldered in, and the units need be returned to the factory for battery replacement. Out of warranty flat rate repair on the Raystar 120 is $149; $350 for the '425. It turns out I have a Garmin 120 XL that also has a dead, soldered-in battery. Flat rate for this unit is $99.I just purchased the battery for the 120 from Newark Electronics, a CR2032 with solder tabs for horizontal mounting for $1.12. I bought 2 and with shipping it was about $6.00. As an experienced electronics technician, this should be a five minute job, if I could only remember to bring a soldering iron to the boat. I am not certain that this is the root of the problem, but I'm pretty sure. I'll let you know after I replace the battery. Only issue a the moment is that the "O"-ring for the sensor unit broke, and I haven't sourced a replacement yet. I asked Raymarine and haven't heard back yet. jv