B&G®, the world’s leading sailing navigation and instrument specialist, is pleased to announce the latest software upgrade for the full range of Zeus2 and Vulcan chartplotters. The new software upgrade enhances B&G chartplotters, allowing users to wirelessly download high-resolution weather information using PredictWind* GRIB files to store meteorological forecasts. This new functionality helps in trip planning or developing strategy for top-level competition. PredictWind is recognized as the leading global supplier of weather data for inshore and offshore sailing, with forecasts ranging from low-bandwidth offshore route planning to specialized, highly detailed local area forecasts of 1km resolution.
In addition to the ability to access and display weather information, the software upgrade installs Target True Wind Angle and Boat Speed Tables that allows users to customize B&G’s unique SailSteer and Sailing Time functions using their specific boat information. This data not only helps to sail the boat to its true potential, it also can be used to give more accurate laylines within the chart plotter.
“In a recent survey conducted by B&G it was shown that almost 45% of boat owners don’t update their marine electronics software,” said Leif Ottosson, president and CEO of Navico. “This latest free software update to B&G’s Zeus2 and Vulcan products really does prove we are enhancing the use of our chartplotters and other electronics beyond their original use. It clearly demonstrates updating software is well worthwhile.”
The update also installs integrated start line technology, which gives sailors all the information needed to gain a perfect start in a race. Users simply ‘ping’ the two ends of the start line and the Zeus2 or Vulcan chartplotter will give an indication of the favored end with an indication of line bias. Additionally, the update includes a very intuitive race timer and a moving track showing the vessel’s distance from the line, boat speed and whether the boat is going to be early or late to the start – all corrected for measured local tides and currents.
The update allows for faster route entry with pre-stored waypoints. To enter a route, tacticians simply add the waypoint names and separate with a comma – ideal for quickly entering a racecourse or cruising through a set of known waypoints.
B&G users can now benefit from remote software upgrades wirelessly. The Network Analyzer and Service Assistant checks the system to see if any elements are available for a software upgrade, and then allows the user to download the latest features directly to the unit.
For more information on the software upgrade, B&G Zeus2 and Vulcan series navigation systems or the entire line of award-winning B&G sailing tactical and navigational electronics, contact 800-628-4487 (toll-free) in the USA or 800-661-3983 (toll-free) in Canada, or visit www.bandg.com.
Quick Overview:
- Wireless access to GRIB forecasts with PredictWind* accounts.
- Easy to complete True Wind target tables, giving more accurate laylines.
- Integrated Start Line functionality to help you get the perfect start.
- Fast route entry to plot your course quickly.
Affected Products:
• Zeus2 7 • Zeus2 9 • Zeus2 12 • Zeus2 Glass Helm • Vulcan 7 • Vulcan 5
*Wireless PredictWind functionality requires a separate account with PredictWind. Zeus2 units require a WIFI-1 wireless interface and all units will require an internet connection.
About B&G: The B&G brand is wholly owned by Navico, Inc., a privately held, international marine electronics company. Navico is currently the world’s largest marine electronics company, and is the parent company to leading marine electronics brands: Lowrance, Simrad Yachting, B&G and GoFree. Navico has approximately 1,500 employees globally and distribution in more than 100 countries worldwide. www.navico.com
