Simrad Yachting launches wireless networking solution with compatible apps

Simrad Yachting, a leading company in the design and manufacture of professional performance marine navigation, has announced the availability of its wireless networking solution, GoFree^™ Wireless.

Combining user-friendly wireless software and rugged marine grade hardware, the GoFree Wireless solution consists of the GoFree Viewer and Control App and the Simrad WIFI-1^™ wireless gateway. Together these enable wireless connectivity between Simrad NSS Multifunction Displays (MFD) and tablets and smartphones. GoFree Wireless offers boaters a new new level of navigational control.

Designed for use with the Apple iPad™, the powerful GoFree Controller app allows boaters to control Simrad NSS functions, in real time, from anywhere on a boat. Replicating the NSS display, the app allows zooming and panning, radar control, StructureScan^™, sonar operation and full interactivity with SonicHub^™ entertainment options.

Enabling multi-user access from anywhere on a vessel, the GoFree hardware supports simultaneous connectivity with multiple devices. For added security and safety, access to the WIFI-1 can be restricted with a network access password through the Simrad NSS menu so that control levels and permissions can be managed for each connected device.

GoFree also undertakes a marine industry first, with a new, open development environment. By using the Simrad WIFI-1 to create a powerful data bridge, Simrad NSS system data can be shared via open protocol to a range of third party PC and Mac navigational software and iOS apps, such as iNavX™, iRegatta and Rosepoint Coastal Explorer, to name but a few. 

This approach is similar to the way technology firms such as Apple^® have embraced community app development, in that it provides the user with a greater choice of apps and more functionality than ever before. The scope for new and innovative apps to be created is endless and is limited only by imagination.

Louis Chemi, chief operating officer of Simrad Yachting said, “With GoFree Wireless, it has never been easier to stay connected with your navigational system from anywhere onboard a vessel.

“Our free downloadable app gives boaters the tools to view and control Simrad NSS functions from their preferred wireless device and our innovative open protocol solution allows them to interface our navigational systems with popular third party navigation apps. Plus, our GoFree Developer Toolkit^™ allows developers to build apps that utilise Simrad network data, allowing boaters to benefit from a constantly expanding selection of new apps that allow unprecedented interaction with the Simrad NSS.”

Plug-and-play compatible with the Simrad NSS, the WIFI-1 connects to the multifunction display via Ethernet and supports wireless connectivity using 

802.11 b+g wireless protocols. The WIFI-1, a mere 2.05-inches (52 mm) deep and 6.76-inches wide, minimises the space required for installation and draws a scant 200mA at 12V. The Simrad WIFI-1 is water resistant and protected by the Simrad Advantage program, the most advanced service offering in the marine electronics market.

Available in November from authorised Simrad dealers, the Simrad WIFI-1 marine grade wireless gateway will be available for €199 excl VAT. The GoFree Viewer and Control App can be downloaded for free from the Apple app store.

For more information on GoFree Wireless, the Simrad WIFI-1, the GoFree App and the entire range of Simrad Yachting marine electronics, visit www.simrad-yachting.com.