Troubleshooting SeaTalkng communication errors – Complete guide

Conflicts between data sources can often show symptoms such as NO AIS or NO FIX on the Raymarine system. These problems are often due to incorrect configuration of data sources or communication protocols. Follow this guide to identify and resolve the issues.

Step 1: Check data sources

When the system has more than one source for the same type of data (GPS, wind, depth, etc.), the Data Sources function must be used to specify which source to use. This is crucial to avoid data conflicts.

Verify that:

• Data sources are correctly configured for each data type.
• The system is not using duplicate sources for the same data.

Step 2: Check AIS connections

If you have an AIS350, AIS650 or AIS500, ensure that the device is only connected via one communication protocol – either SeaTalkng (preferred) or NMEA 0183, but not both simultaneously.

Step 3: Check the power supply

If the problem persists, fully charge the vessel's batteries and try to duplicate the fault while the system is connected to shore power. If the fault does not occur under these conditions, the problem is likely due to insufficient power.

Actions to improve power supply:

• Load test batteries and replace if necessary.
• Add extra house battery capacity.
• Use the charging system more often.
• Increase the charging system's capacity.

Step 4: Inspect the SeaTalkng backbone

If the problem persists even with shore power, check the backbone for:

• Correct termination.
• Power input at approximately the midpoint of the LEN load.
• That the ACU or course computer's SeaTalkng POWER switch is OFF if separate power input is used.
• Maximum spur length (6 m) not exceeded.
• A maximum of 3 devices daisy-chained per spur.
• Correct splices and no cable damage.

Tip: Check the resistance between CAN_H and CAN_L on the termination plugs – it should be 120 ohms.

Step 5: Identify faulty devices

If the resistance is not as expected, remove devices one by one until the faulty device is found. Then send it to the Raymarine service center for bench testing.