VDR Explorer, User Manual, DBS00294-31

User Manual for VDR Explorer
For DM100/DM200/DM300 S-VDR and DM100/DM400/DM500 VDR
Document Number 9200294

Version Number 3.1
Date June 2014
P/N (hard copy) 9200294-31
User Manual for VDR Explorer for DM100/DM200/DM300 S-VDR and DM100/DM400/DM500 VDR
Danelec Marine A/S
Revision record
Version Date Description
1.0 June 2006 Original issue of this document.
1.1 December 2006 Documentation for VDR explorer Version 1.1. Support for
extraction to database discontinued. Alarm display added.
Other minor changes.
1.2 April 2007 Minor revision. Description of Remote Backup has been
removed from this manual.
1.3 March 2008 Documentation for VDR Explorer 1.31. (Vista support and
improved Modbus support).
1.4 August 2008 References to DM200 and DM400 included.
1.5 September 2008 Documentation for VDR explorer 1.4 (improved tool for
data export).
1.6 September 2010 Description of IMO (IEC61996-1/2) mode for data export
tool.
Description of Azimuth Thruster object included.
3.0 June 2014 Changes related to the release of the DM100 S-VDR and
VDR
3.1 June 2014 Minor revision
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Contents
REVISION RECORD ........................................................................................................... 2
1 SCOPE AND PURPOSE .......................................................................................... 7

1.1 References ................................................................................................................ 7
1.2 Terms and Abbreviations .......................................................................................... 7
2 SYSTEM OVERVIEW ............................................................................................... 8

2.1 Connecting a PC to a MK4 fixed capsule .................................................................. 9
2.2 Connection a PC to MK1 float free ............................................................................ 9
2.3 Connecting the PC to a MK2 and MK3 fixed capsule................................................ 9
2.4 Connecting the PC to a VDR data disk (DM300/DM500) ........................................ 10
3 GUI DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................ 11

3.1 After startup ............................................................................................................ 11
3.1.1 Tool bar ............................................................................................................ 13
3.1.2 VDR Explorer status bar .................................................................................. 13
3.1.3 VDR Explorer play control area........................................................................ 13
4 REPLAY OF DATA, SHORT GUIDE ...................................................................... 14

4.1.1 Play control ...................................................................................................... 15
4.1.2 Tracks .............................................................................................................. 15
5 CONFIGURATION .................................................................................................. 16
5.1 Creating a new configuration .................................................................................. 16
5.2 Adding new tab pages............................................................................................. 16
5.2.1 Tab page organizer .......................................................................................... 17
5.3 Creating and moving graphical objects ................................................................... 18
5.3.1 Creating and moving panels ............................................................................ 18
5.4 Configuration of graphical objects ........................................................................... 18
5.4.1 Copy/paste of graphical object configuration ................................................... 19
5.5 Configuration of Gauges ......................................................................................... 20
5.5.1 Dial meter......................................................................................................... 20
5.5.2 Vertical bar ....................................................................................................... 22
5.5.3 Horizontal bar................................................................................................... 23
5.5.4 Compass dial ................................................................................................... 24
5.5.5 Horizontal ruler................................................................................................. 25
5.5.6 Doppler log....................................................................................................... 26
5.5.7 Rudder indicator............................................................................................... 27
5.5.8 Graph ............................................................................................................... 28
5.5.9 Roll and pitch indicator ..................................................................................... 29
5.5.10 Azimuth Thruster.............................................................................................. 30
5.6 Numeric data display............................................................................................... 32
5.6.1 General ............................................................................................................ 32
5.6.2 Colors .............................................................................................................. 32
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5.6.3 Concatenation .................................................................................................. 32

5.7 Paper strip ............................................................................................................... 33
5.7.1 Data format ...................................................................................................... 33
5.7.2 Channel ........................................................................................................... 33
5.7.3 Source ............................................................................................................. 33
5.7.4 Output only changes ........................................................................................ 33
5.8 Configuration of data sources for objects ................................................................ 34
5.8.1 Source ............................................................................................................. 34
5.8.2 Use replay calibration (gauge only).................................................................. 34
5.8.3 Settings for analog data (alphanumeric data field only) ................................... 35
5.8.4 Settings for digital data .................................................................................... 35
5.8.5 Setting for serial data ....................................................................................... 36
5.8.6 Relation between decoders stored in the library and the configuration ............ 37
5.8.7 Alarm settings .................................................................................................. 37
5.9 Default color definition............................................................................................. 38
5.10 Formatter syntax ..................................................................................................... 39
6 AIS DATA DISPLAY ............................................................................................... 40

6.1 AIS display tab ........................................................................................................ 40
6.2 Selecting data source.............................................................................................. 41
6.3 Using a AIS display tab ........................................................................................... 42
6.4 Symbols for Targets ................................................................................................ 42
6.5 Supported messages .............................................................................................. 43
7 DISPLAY OF DATA FROM VESSEL’S ALERT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM .......... 44

7.1 Alert List object........................................................................................................ 44
7.2 Alert event log object............................................................................................... 45
7.3 Selecting data sources ............................................................................................ 45
8 OBJECTS RELATED TO IMAGES RECEIVED OVER IEC 61162-450 ................. 46

8.1 Object for showing “status and information text” ..................................................... 46
8.2 Object for showing “display source information”...................................................... 46
9 VDR AND VDR EXPLORER CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT ........................ 47

9.1 VDR configuration management ............................................................................. 47
9.2 VDR Explorer configuration management ............................................................... 47
10 CONNECT DIALOG BOX ....................................................................................... 49

10.1 Capsule ................................................................................................................... 49
10.2 Backup .................................................................................................................... 50
10.3 VDR extraction ........................................................................................................ 50
10.4 Live ......................................................................................................................... 50
11 DECODER LIBRARY ............................................................................................. 51

11.1 Properties for NMEA decoders................................................................................ 51
11.2 NMEA decoder library window ................................................................................ 52
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11.2.1 Drop down menus ............................................................................................ 52

11.2.2 Decoder library tree ......................................................................................... 53
11.2.3 Decoder description ......................................................................................... 53
11.3 NMEA Decoder Editor ............................................................................................. 54
11.3.1 Drop down menus ............................................................................................ 54
11.3.2 Tool bar ............................................................................................................ 55
11.3.3 General buttons ............................................................................................... 55
11.3.4 Decoder information......................................................................................... 55
11.3.5 Editor window................................................................................................... 56
11.3.6 Decoder test..................................................................................................... 56
12 EXTRACTOR .......................................................................................................... 57
12.1.1 Track information ............................................................................................. 57
13 DATA EXPORT TOOL ........................................................................................... 59

13.1.1 Export raw serial data ...................................................................................... 60
14 AUDIO SETTINGS TOOL ....................................................................................... 61

14.1 Password protected audio ....................................................................................... 61
15 DATA LOG ............................................................................................................. 62

15.1 Configuration of data log ......................................................................................... 62
15.1.1 Direct creations of columns .............................................................................. 62
15.1.2 Indirect creations of columns ........................................................................... 64
15.1.3 Organizing columns ......................................................................................... 65
15.1.4 Maximum number of columns .......................................................................... 65
15.2 Saving log data to a file ........................................................................................... 66
15.2.1 Max file size ..................................................................................................... 66
15.2.2 Sample interval ................................................................................................ 66
15.3 Preferences ............................................................................................................. 66
15.3.1 Directory path for log files ................................................................................ 66
15.3.2 Disable data logging at connect ....................................................................... 66
16 ALARM PANEL ...................................................................................................... 67

16.1.1 Easy localization of alarms-source................................................................... 68
16.2 Default setting for alarm panel ................................................................................ 68
16.3 Configuration of objects for alarms.......................................................................... 69
17 RELAY OF SERIAL OUTPUT TO OTHER APPLICATIONS ................................. 70

17.1 Output port settings ................................................................................................. 70
17.2 Configuration of serial output .................................................................................. 71
17.2.1 Merging of data ................................................................................................ 71
17.3 Enable/Disable output ............................................................................................. 71
17.4 Overflow on serial port ............................................................................................ 72
17.5 Serial output and step ............................................................................................. 72
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18 SPECIAL FEATURES ............................................................................................ 73

18.1 Floating windows..................................................................................................... 73
18.1.1 “Windows” dropdown menu ............................................................................. 73
18.2 Support for PCs with lower screen resolution ......................................................... 73
18.3 Vessel information................................................................................................... 73
18.4 Play control ............................................................................................................. 73
18.5 Full screen radar image .......................................................................................... 73
18.6 Full screen graph object .......................................................................................... 73
18.7 Full AIS display ....................................................................................................... 74
19 NMEA SENTENCE FORMATTING SCRIPT LANGUAGE V3.0 ............................ 75

19.1 Purpose ................................................................................................................... 75
19.2 Language introduction............................................................................................. 75
19.3 Language example.................................................................................................. 75
19.4 Bit function examples .............................................................................................. 76
19.5 Operators and reserved words ................................................................................ 76
19.5.1 Operators ......................................................................................................... 76
19.5.2 Reserved words ............................................................................................... 77
19.6 Field Identifier.......................................................................................................... 79
19.7 The Index Identifier ................................................................................................. 80
19.8 Strings ..................................................................................................................... 81
19.9 Decoding of Modbus ............................................................................................... 82
19.9.1 Data format for VDR configured as Modbus slave ........................................... 82
19.9.2 Data format for VDR configured as Modbus master ........................................ 84
19.9.3 Modbus functions ............................................................................................. 84
19.9.4 Overlap between input/holding registers and coils/discrete input..................... 87
19.10 Other functions .................................................................................................... 87
19.10.1 Last function ................................................................................................. 87
APPENDIX A: DM200 CONNING DISPLAY DEFAULT CONFIGURATION .................... 89
APPENDIX B: DM100 CONNING DISPLAY DEFAULT CONFIGURATION .................... 90
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1 Scope and purpose

User manual for VDR Explorer
1.1 References
DBS10956 Installation Manual for the DM100-2014 VDR
DBS10885 Installation Manual for the DM100 S-VDR
DBS00238 Installation Manual for DM200/DM300 S-VDR and DM400/DM500 VDR
1.2 Terms and Abbreviations

OPT Operational Performance Test
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2 System overview
The VDR Explorer is an application designed for XP or Windows 7. The VDR Explorer is able to
replay data recorded by a DM100, DM200, DM300 S-VDR and DM100, DM400, DM500 VDR.
The VDR Explorer can read data from the following sources:
Source Description Hardware required

Fixed capsule MK2 and MK3 Data from the capsule which - A PC with Firewire port.
(capsules with Firewire has been removed from the - Firewire repeater with CAT 5
interface) VDR interface
- A mains to 12V DC adapter
for the repeater is needed if a
portable PC with 4-pin i/f is
used
Fixed MK4 capsule and float- Data from the capsule which - A PC with an Ethernet port.
free MK1 (capsules with has been removed from the - A mains to 12V DC adapter
Ethernet interface) VDR - Power junction box p/n
1302983
DM300/DM500 VDR data disk Data from a backup disk that - A stationary PC with a 6-pin
(the removable hard drive) has been removed from the Firewire port.
VDR (Note 1) - A Firewire repeater and a
mains to 12V adapter is needed
when a portable PC with a 4-pin
Firewire port is used
DM200/DM400 USB VDR data Data from a USB backup disk - A PC with a USB port
disk that has been removed from the
VDR (Note 1)
Data from External Extended - A PC with an Ethernet port
backup (NAS)
VDR Extraction A file with VDR data
downloaded from the VDR,
capsule or a backup disk. It may
also be a selection of data from
another extraction
Live Data transferred live from the PC with an Ethernet port
VDR while recording. (10/100baseT)
Note 1) Data can be retrieved from a functional VDR with the VDR data disk in place utilizing the web extractor utility
and a PC with an Internet browser/Ethernet port. This is the simplest way of getting access to the VDR data.
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2.1 Connecting a PC to a MK4 fixed capsule

Mains
24VDC adaptor 110-240VAC
Ethernet
PC with cable
VDR Power
explorer junction box
P/N 1302983
2.2 Connection a PC to MK1 float free
Mains
Ethernet
PC with cable
VDR Power Junction box
junction box 2302868-10
explorer
P/N 1302983
2.3 Connecting the PC to a MK2 and MK3 fixed capsule
Stationary Firewire Crossed CAT5

PC cable RJ45 – RJ45
6pin - 6pin FW repeater Note 2
CAT5
P/N 1001162
Note 2) if the original cable is attached to the capsule, then use a straight CAT5 cable and a RJ45 coupler.
Mains
P/N 1001163
Firewire
cable Crossed CAT5
Portable
4pin - 6pin RJ45 – RJ45
PC
FW repeater Note 2
CAT5
P/N 1001162
Note 2) if the original cable is attached to the capsule, then use a straight CAT5 cable and a RJ45 coupler.
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2.4 Connecting the PC to a VDR data disk (DM300/DM500)
Stationary Firewire
PC cable
6pin - 6pin Backup disc
Note) if the PC is unable to power the disc then use a repeater with a mains adaptor, see below.
Mains
P/N 1001163
Firewire
cable Firewire
Portable cable
4pin - 6pin
PC 6pin - 6pin
FW repeater Backup disc
CAT5
P/N 1001162
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3 GUI description
3.1 After startup

The VDR Explorer will, after startup, use the default configuration.
VDR Explorer window, dropdown menus (MS windows style)

Tool bar
Player control area
Tab pages
Player status bar
The “window title bar” complies with the general standard for Microsoft GUI. The window title bar
displays the name (if defined) of the current GUI configuration.
VDR Explorer window dropdown menus:
File->New: Creates a new (empty) VDR Explorer configuration
File->Open: Opens an existing VDR Explorer configuration
File->Save: Saves the current VDR Explorer configuration using the same name
File->Save as: Saves the current VDR Explorer configuration using a new name
File->Recent files: Short cuts to the 4 most recent configurations which have been opened or saved
on the disk. Any configuration which has been temporarily downloaded, e.g. from a VDR while
playing live, will not be included on the list.
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File->Exit: Exits the VDR Explorer program.
View->Play control: Displays or hides the play control area.
View->Vessel information: Displays or hides the additional vessel information.
Tools->Log: Displays the log for the VDR Explorer program. This is only used for troubleshooting.
Tools->Audio: Opens the audio settings dialog box.
Tools->Alarm Display: Opens the alarm display window see section 16
Tools->Connect: Opens the “connect” dialog box. The “connect” dialog box is used to select a data
source for the VDR Explorer see section 10.
Tools->Disconnect: Disconnects the VDR Explorer from the data source.
Tools->VDR config management: The VDR Explorer is able to use information from VDR
configuration object labels see section 9.1.
Tools->VDR Explorer config management: The VDR Explorer is able to store its configuration
together with source data and later retrieve this information see section 9.2
Tools->Decoder library: Opens the NMEA decoder library, see section 11.
Tools->Extractor: Opens the Extractor dialog box, see section 12.
Tools->Export Data: Opens the Export Data dialog box, see section 13.
Tools->Setup Serial Output: Opens a dialog box for selecting data to be outputted to other
applications, see section 17. (This is only selectable when VDR Explorer is in configuration mode.)
Tools->Setup AIS Data Input: Opens a dialog box for selecting the common data source for the
AIS display objects, see section 6.2. (This is only selectable when VDR Explorer is in configuration
mode.)
Tools->Setup Alert Management Input: Opens a dialog box for selecting the data sources for the
objects related to showing Bridge Alert Management data, see section 7
Tools-> Download from Ethernet capsule / float-free: Tools for downloading data from the MK4
fixed capsule and the MK1 float-free i.e. the capsules utilized with the DM100.
Options->Color Definitions: Opens the definitions dialog box, see section 5.9.
Options->Preferences: Opens the dialog box for setting the program preferences.
Mode->Configuration mode - On: Sets the VDR Explorer to configuration mode.
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Mode->Configuration mode - Off: Exits the VDR Explorer from configuration mode.
Monitor: Queue monitor used for troubleshooting only.
3.1.1 Tool bar

The tool bar contains short cuts (presented as icons) to the most common tools and functions.
3.1.2 VDR Explorer status bar

The VDR Explorer status bar contains information regarding the current status of the VDR
Explorer. Additional information regarding an object selected by the cursor (“on hover”) may be
displayed to the left.
3.1.3 VDR Explorer play control area

The VDR Explorer play control area contains the main controls; i.e. play, stop and pause. Some of
the controls will be grayed out depending on the data source for the VDR Explorer. See also section
4.1.1
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4 Replay of data, short guide

The VDR Explorer automatically displays the “Connect” dialog box when the program is started.
This dialog is used for selecting a data source.
To select a data source press “Connect”, consult section 10 for more details.
A VDR explorer configuration which matches the VDR data must be uploaded to the VDR when
the VDR is installed. This will enable any PC with the VDR Explorer installed to replay data
without any configuration work. If this dialog box appears then select, “Yes”.
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4.1.1 Play control

The play control area contains the functions needed for replaying data. Two views are available,
simple and advanced.
Click here to expand play control
Simple play control
Advanced play control
A tool tip with helpful information appears if the cursor hovers over a bottom for short period.
Note) The tool tip is not available for disabled functions (buttons with gray symbols).
4.1.2 Tracks
A track is defined as an uninterrupted recording session. The VDR will create a new track if it is
restarted. VDR data retrieved from a normally operating VDR will only contain one track. Please
note that the VDR Explorer will split a track downloaded from the VDR if a bad section of data is
detected and for a DM100-2014 VDR, if the VDR was reconfigured during the recording of the
track.
4.1.2.1 Goto button

The “Goto” button will, if activated, set the slider to the position indicated in the input field below
the button. A new value may be entered into the input field. The field will become red if the entered
value is illegal or out of range. The icon to left of the “Goto” button may be used to update the input
field with the current position of the slider. This function may be used while the VDR Explorer is
replaying data. If you want to set a “mark” at an event you want to return to, do the following. First
click on the icon (to the left of the “Goto” button) to set the “mark”, later you may click on the Goto
button and then “Play”.
4.1.2.2 Action at end of track

It is possible to do one of the following when the end of the track is reached.
Stop Stop playing

Continue Continue to next track if present
Repeat 1 Repeat current track
Repeat All Continue to next track if present or replay track 1.
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5 Configuration
The VDR Explorer must be in confirmation mode “Mode->Configuration Mode -
On” before any change of configuration can be made.
5.1 Creating a new configuration

File->New
Creates a new “empty” configuration.
File->Open
Opens an existing configuration, e.g. a template. Use “File-Save as” to store the new configuration
under another name.
5.2 Adding new tab pages

Right click on a tab for an existing page and then click on “Tab properties”. “Tab page organizer
will appear.
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5.2.1 Tab page organizer
The Tab page organizer
The “Tab page organizer” is a tool for creating, deleting, hiding, naming and sorting the tab pages.
Click on “Add” and this menu will appear
Type in the title for the new tab page, select a template from the list box and click on “OK”.
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5.3 Creating and moving graphical objects

The graphical objects on a tab page are organized into panels (columns). A graphical object often
contains many elements known as “gauges”.
A proper tab page must be created before any graphical object can be created. Templates with one
to four panels and one example have been made. (Right click on any tab for a tab page and then
select ”Tab properties” to open the ”Tab Page Organizer” see section 5.2.
A new graphical object is created on a panel by right-clicking on a panel, and then “Insert Object”.
More objects within a panel will form a column.
The position of an object within a panel may be moved up or down: Right click on the object and
then click on “Object…-> Move up” or “Object…->Move down”
A graphical object cannot be moved to another panel on the left or right. However, there is a way
around this:
1. Create a new instance of the object in the other panel.

2. Copy the configuration from the original object and paste it onto the new object (see section
5.4.1).
3. Delete the original object.
5.3.1 Creating and moving panels

Right-clicking on an existing panel and selecting “Insert Panel” will create an additional panel.
More features for manipulating panels are found by right clicking on an existing panel and then
selecting “Panel Properties”
5.4 Configuration of graphical objects

A graphical object contains one or more gauges for displaying data. The only exceptions are the
“Numeric data display”, which contains 3 “objects” for displaying data in numerical form or as text,
and the Paper strip object that is able to display serial data as text.
The following graphical objects have been defined (consult section 6 for objects related to AIS data
display and section 7 for object related to bridge alert management):
• Dial meter
• Dual dial meter
• Four Vertical bars
• Two Horizontal bars
• Compass dial
• Horizontal ruler
• Doppler log indicator
• Dual Rudder indicator
• Graph
• Roll and Pitch indicator
• Azimuth thruster
• Numeric data display
• Small numeric data display
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• Extra small numeric data display

• Paper strip
• Display source information
• Image data
• Image data with meta data
Right-clicking on the object while the VDR Explorer is in configuration mode opens the object
property dialog box.
The first tab page called “General” contains the

most common parameters for a graphical object.
This page is slightly different for the “Numeric
data display” see section 5.6.
Title: Text that is common for the gauges

displayed by the graphical object.
Gauges: Checkboxes for enabling/disabling the

display of gauges defined for that graphical object.
Frame: The boundary of a graphical object is

indicated (default) with four thin lines. A number
of graphical objects may be grouped by removing
the adjacent lines. This is purely a visual effect. A
line may be disabled /enabled by double-clicking
on its position on the squared symbol located in
this section.
Source labels: (dial meter object only):

The label for the fields that displays the data in
numeric form
The remaining tab pages are used for configuring

the gauges defined for the graphical object.
5.4.1 Copy/paste of graphical object configuration

The configuration from a graphical object may be copied and pasted onto another identical
graphical object.
Copy configuration:
Right-click on the object and then click on “Copy Config”.
Paste Configuration:
Right-click on the other object, and then click on “Paste Configuration”. Note that both graphical
objects must be identical.
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5.5 Configuration of Gauges

5.5.1 Dial meter
5.5.1.1 Labels
Dial Title: Text located above the dial meter.
Unit: Text located inside the dial.
Use Peak indicator and Peak timeout:

The peak indicator shows the maximum reading
for a specified time (peak timeout). This is useful
when measuring wind speed for example.
5.5.1.2 Scale
This section contain the parameters for controlling
the geometry and resolution of the dial
Start value: The start value is the most
counterclockwise point on the dial.
End value: The end value is the most clockwise
point on the dial.
Format:
This defines the format of the figures on the dial,
see section 5.10.
Show Mathematical Sign:

This controls whether figures on the dial are
displayed with a mathematical sign.
Angle:
Defines the extent of the dial.
Rotation:
The dial will by default (value “0”) be similar to a
typical speedometer. The rotation may be changed
by entering a value other than “0” in this field.
Resolution:
This controls the resolution of the dial.
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5.5.1.3 Sources
Primary: Input to the pointer for the dial meter.
Secondary: Input to the secondary indicator for the dial meter. The secondary indicator is shown
as a small triangle. The secondary indicator is typically used for displaying the “commanded value”
while the main indicator shows the actual value.
The “setup” button opens a dial box where the source data can be defined, see section 5.8
5.5.1.4 Colors
This controls the appearance of the dial meter. The “set to default” button resets all the colors to the
default settings (see section 5.9)
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5.5.2 Vertical bar

5.5.2.1 Labels
A vertical bar has two labels at each end. One of
them is typically used as a description while the
other is for unit of measurement.
5.5.2.2 Scale
Start Value:
The start value is at the bottom of the bar.
End Value:
The end value is at the top of the bar.
Mirror Horizontally:
Two adjacent bars are (default) symmetrical
instances i.e. bar 1, 2 and 3, 4 form pairs. This may
be changed by checking “Mirror Horizontally” for
bars with e.g. odd number.
Format:
Defines the format of the figures for the bar, see
section 5.8.3.2.

This controls whether the figures for the scale are
5.5.2.3 Sources
Primary:
Input to the main indicator for the bar.
Secondary:
Input to the secondary indicator for the object. The
secondary indicator is shown as a small triangle. The secondary indicator is typically used for
displaying the “commanded value”, while the bar shows the actual value
5.5.2.4 Colors
This controls the appearance of the bar object. The “set to default” button resets all the colors to the
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5.5.3 Horizontal bar

The parameters for the horizontal bar correspond
to the parameters for the vertical bar. An extra
label (middle) has been added.
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5.5.4 Compass dial

5.5.4.1 Scale
Format:
This defines the format of the figures on the
compass dial, see section 5.8.3.2.
5.5.4.2 Sources
Primary:
The primary data source controls the rotation of
the compass dial. The typical input is “Heading”.
Secondary:
The secondary (optional) data source controls a
small triangle circling the compass dial. The
typical secondary input is “Commanded Heading”.
5.5.4.3 Colors
This controls the appearance of the compass dial.
The “set default” button resets all the colors to the
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5.5.5 Horizontal ruler

5.5.5.1 Labels
A vertical bar has 6 labels.
5.5.5.2 Scale
Star value:
The start value is the far left point of the ruler.
End value:
The end value is the far right point of the ruler.
Format:
This defines the format of the figures on the ruler,
see section 5.8.3.2.

This controls whether the figures on the ruler are
displayed with mathematical sign
5.5.5.3 Sources
Primary:
Input to the primary indicator for the ruler. The
main indicator is shown as a triangle above the
ruler.
Secondary:
Input to the secondary indicator for the ruler. The
secondary indicator is shown as a triangle below
the ruler. The secondary indicator is typically used for displaying the “commanded value” while the
primary indicator shows the actual value
5.5.5.4 Colors
This controls the appearance of the ruler. The “set to default” button resets all the colors to the
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5.5.6 Doppler log

5.5.6.1 Numeric Output
Unit:
Text displayed after numeric outputs e.g. KNT.
Format:
This defines the format of the numeric outputs, see
section 5.8.3.2.

This controls whether the numeric outputs are
5.5.6.2 Sources
4 inputs may be applied to the Doppler log object:
Longitudinal Speed:
Is shown as numeric data in the center of the
object
Stern Transverse Speed:

Is shown as numeric data at top of the object.
Aft Transverse speed:

Is shown as numeric data at bottom of the object.
Relative Wind Direction:

Is shown as a triangle circling the center of the
object.
5.5.6.3 Colors
This controls the appearance of the object. The
“set to default” button resets all the colors to the
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5.5.7 Rudder indicator

5.5.7.1 Labels
Title:
Text shown beneath the rudder indicator.
5.5.7.2 Scale
Rudder Max Angle:
This controls the extent of the dial for the rudder
indicator. It is recommended that a value equal to
the maximum rudder angle for the vessel is used.

5.5.7.3 Sources
Primary:
The primary data source controls the pointer; the
typical input is data from the rudder angle sensor.
Secondary:
The secondary (optional) data source controls a
small triangle circling the dial. The typical
secondary input is “Commanded rudder angle”.
5.5.7.4 Colors
This controls the appearance of the rudder indicator. The “set to default” button resets all the colors
to the default settings (see section 5.9)
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5.5.8 Graph
5.5.8.1 Graph type
This section defines the input to the X-coordinate
for the graph object.
Time/Y graphs:
The primary and secondary inputs are used for Y-
coordinates for two independent graphs. Time is
used as X-coordinate for both graphs.
X/Y graph: The primary input is used for the X-

coordinate and the secondary for the Y-coordinate.
5.5.8.2 Resolution
This defines the resolution of the graph(s). Small
values for “Time Span” and “Sample Interval”
give a graph with high resolution while high
values give a graph that covers a large time span.
5.5.8.3 Labels
Label:
Labels for the numeric outputs.
Unit:
Text displayed after the numeric output and as unit
for the corresponding axis
5.5.8.4 Scale
This defines resolution and format of figures for
the corresponding axis.
5.5.8.5 Colors
This controls the colors of the graph. The “set to
default” button resets all the colors to the default
settings (see section 5.9)
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5.5.9 Roll and pitch indicator

5.5.9.1 Gauge
Title:
Text shown above the gauge.
Type:
Used to select the gauge type (roll or pitch). Roll is
default for gauge 1 and pitch is default for gauge 2
5.5.9.2 Scale
Format:
This defines the format of the numeric outputs, see
section 5.8.3.2.

This controls whether the figures on the dial are
displayed with mathematical sign
5.5.9.3 Source
The data source controls the rotation of the ship-
shaped indicator in the middle of the gauge; the
typical input is data from the roll and pitch sensor
respectively.
5.5.9.4 Colors
This controls the appearance of the object. The
“Set to Default” button resets all the colors to the
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5.5.10 Azimuth Thruster

5.5.10.1 Parameters for vertical bar
The azimuth thruster object includes a vertical bar
to the left. The parameters for this gauge are
described in section 5.5.2
5.5.10.2 Thruster
Title: Text located over the dial and the alpha
numeric field located top right.
Unit:
Unit for the alpha numeric field located top right.
Use Sin/Cos input:

Mark the checkbox if the thruster utilizes a
sine/cosine interface for signaling the angle of
thrust
Rotation:
Controls the orientation of the dial
Scale:
Scale may be set to either 0-360º or -180º to 180º.
Scale resolution:
This controls the resolution of the dial.
Format:
This defines the format of the figures in the alpha
numeric field located top right, see section 5.8.3.2.

5.5.10.3 RPM
This contains the parameters for the alpha numeric
field located left center.
5.5.10.4 Order
This contains the parameters for the alpha numeric field located left bottom.
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5.5.10.5 Sources
This defines the input(s) to the thruster symbol and the two alpha numeric fields “RPM” and
“Command”.
5.5.10.6 Colors
This controls the appearance of the thruster symbol and the two alpha numeric fields “RPM” and
“Command”. The “Set to Default” button resets all the colors to the default settings (see section 5.9)
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5.6 Numeric data display

5.6.1 General
The Numeric Data Display does not display any
gauges. Three smaller “objects” for displaying
numeric data or text are displayed instead. These
smaller “objects” are called “Alphanumeric data
fields. Two sizes exist (large and small).
5.6.2 Colors
The color of the label text for a “Numeric data
display” is determined by the default color
definition (Text/Outline Color) see section 5.9.
The “Primary indicator color” is used as color for
the displayed data.
5.6.3 Concatenation
A number of Numeric Data Displays may be
concatenated by removing adjacent lines (see
section 5.4).
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5.7 Paper strip

The Paper strip object displays serial data as text
e.g. data that is sent to a line printer. It can also be
used to monitor NMEA data.
5.7.1 Data format

The object displays data using four different
formats:
• ASCII
• NMEA
• Binary. Binary is displayed as
“hexadecimal”
• Processed data
“Processed data” in this context is typically data derived from NMEA strings using a decoder, for
example vessel’s position.
5.7.2 Channel
This field is used for specifying the input to the
paper strip object when data format is set to
ASCII, NMEA or Binary.
5.7.3 Source
This field is used for specifying the input to the
paper strip object when data format is set to
“Processed data”. See section 5.8 for details.
5.7.4 Output only changes

A new line will not be printed unless data
changes if the box is checked.
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5.8 Configuration of data sources for objects

This dialog box is common for all gauges and for the alphanumeric data display with a few
exceptions. This box is opened by clicking on the “Setup” button in the “Source” section on the
property pages for an object.
5.8.1 Source
Used for selecting a source for the gauge. A gauge/data field may be disabled by selecting “No
Source” but no other parameters will be forgotten if already configured.
5.8.2 Use replay calibration (gauge only)

A factor (multiplier) and offset may be applied to the original data. E.g. knots may be converted to
m/s.
5.8.2.1 Add to log (alphanumeric data field only)

The information displayed in the data field will also be added to the log if this box is checked (see
section 15).
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5.8.3 Settings for analog data (alphanumeric data field only)
5.8.3.1 Heading and trailing text:

Heading and trailing text may be configured to
change according to the numeric value of the
data.
5.8.3.2 Formatter string

See section 5.10.
5.8.3.3 Test data format

A “test utility” is located beneath the
configuration fields.
5.8.4 Settings for digital data
5.8.4.1 Use alternative values (gauge only)

Used to define alternative numeric values for active and inactive state, default (if box is unchecked)
is 1 and 0.
5.8.4.2 Use text from VDR configuration

This defines what text is associated to active and inactive state e.g. “Open” and “Closed”. This
information is normally available from the VDR configuration and can be used by the VDR
Explorer as it is.
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5.8.5 Setting for serial data

5.8.5.1 Decoding section
Contains information about the currently
selected decoder script:
Edit: Open the decoder script editor, see

section 11.3. The editor is used for creating
a new decoder script or for editing the
currently selected one. It is strongly
recommended that an edited decoder
always be given a new name and that the
modification is described.
Save in library:
Saves the decoder script in the library if it
has been changed. See section 5.8.6
Library:
Opens the decoder script library from where the most commonly used decoder scripts can be
selected. See section 11.
Use checksum:
NMEA strings not containing correct checksum information will be ignored if this box is checked.
Use timeout:
If this box is checked, the appearance of gauge/data field will be affected when no new data is
received within a specified time period.
- For gauges:
The indicator will disappear.
- For alphanumeric data field:

An additional menu “Action” is displayed for an alphanumeric data field.
The following actions have been implemented:
• Delete data: The data field is blanked
• Dimming: Dimming of the text in the data field
• Timeout: “Timeout” will be displayed in the data field
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5.8.6 Relation between decoders stored in the library and the configuration
Decoder Library VDR Explorer

Decoder #1 Configuration
Gauge #1:
Decoder #2 1 Copy of
Decoder #3
Decoder #3 Gauge #2:
2 Copy of
Decoder #4 Decoder #2
.
. 3 Gauge #3:
. Edited copy of 4
New decoder Decoder #4
5a
.
.
.
Decoder #n
Step 1) Decoder #2 is selected for Gauge #1

Step 4) the decoder for gauge #3 is modified for some reason.
There are now two options:
Step 5a) Store the new decoder under a new name in the library; i.e. use the “Save library” function
see section 5.8.5.1.
Step 5b) leave as it is; i.e. a new decoder is created but is not stored in the library.
This message will appear if attempting to replace a decoder that is not stored in the library
5.8.7 Alarm settings

Parameters relevant for the alarm display. See section 16.
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5.9 Default color definition
The global colors define the overall color-scheme used for the graphical data display(s).
• The background color is the color of the window used for graphical data display. The
background color will be visible because there is a small space between objects (unless they
are merged).
• The Object Frame Color is the border of an object.
• Object background Color is the background color used for objects.
• “Text/outline color” is the color for static text (e.g. labels) and for the outline of most
gauges.
Changes to Global color take effect immediately after “OK” or “Apply” is selected, even when the
VDR Explorer is not in configuration mode.
The default colors are the colors of dynamic elements in a graphical data display, e.g. the indicator
for a dial meter. Changes to default colors will only take effect for new objects. The colors for an
existing object may be set to new default colors by right-clicking on the object (in configuration
mode) and select Object->Set to Default Colors.
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5.10 Formatter syntax

Figures displayed in an alphanumeric data field may be formatted; i.e. the number of digits after the
decimal point and leading zeros may be defined.
The formatter syntax is identical to the syntax defined for formatting output from a NMEA decoder.
E.g.: The figures 7.5 and 10 will be displayed as below, depending on the formatter.
Formatter 7.5 10
0 7 10
0.0 7.5 10.0
000 007 010
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6 AIS data display

There are eight objects for displaying AIS data:
• AIS display
• AIS display (small)
• AIS own ship info
• AIS target info
• AIS target list (1x0.5)
• AIS target list (2x0.5)
• AIS target list (1x1)
• AIS target list (2x1)
The figures following an “AIS target list” refer to the size of the object where 1x1 is the typical size
of a graphical object.
Note that AIS data display object may be mixed with other objects on a tab page.
6.1 AIS display tab

A default AIS data display contains a useful combination of AIS objects. This tab page is created
like any other tab page, see section 5.2.
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The AIS tab page is composed of the following objects:

• One AIS display
• One AIS Own ship info
• Four AIS target Info
• One AIS target list (2x0.5)
6.2 Selecting data source
“Tools->Setup AIS Data Input” opens the “AIS data settings” tool.
AIS data settings tool
Select the serial or network channel to which the AIS data is received from.
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6.3 Using a AIS display tab
The most important feature of the AIS data display is the ability to assign a label to and get
information about a target of interest. This is done by clicking either directly on the target on the
AIS display or on the label field for the target in the AIS target list. An AIS target info object will
be assigned to the target when this is done.
E.g.: On the AIS display tab shown above, targets “A” and “B” have been selected.
A target may be deselected by clicking on the target again. The number of “AIS target objects” on
an “AIS display tab” determines the number of targets that can be selected simultaneously. “First in
first out” applies if the number of selected targets exceeds the number of “AIS target objects”.
6.4 Symbols for Targets
AIS Standard target:
Base station:
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Aids to navigation:
Aircraft:
6.5 Supported messages

1 - Position report
2 - Position report
3 - Position report
4 - Base station report
5 - Static and voyage related data
6 - Binary addressed message
8 - Binary broadcast message
9 - Standard SAR aircraft position report
12 - Addressed safety related message
14 - Safety related broadcast message
18 - Standard Class B equipment position report
19 - Extended Class B equipment position report
21 - Aids-to-navigation report
22 - Channel management
24 - Class B "CS" static data report
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7 Display of data from vessel’s Alert Management System

There are six objects for displaying bridge alert management data.
Alert list (1x1)

Alert list (2x1)
Alert list (1x2)
Alert list (2x2)
Alert event log (1x1)
Alert event log (2x1)
The objects have been designed for showing data from an integrated bridge alert management
system but may be used to display ALR messages in general.
7.1 Alert List object

An alert list object displays the status of the alerts which are currently active based on data received
from the serial/network channels which have been associated with this functionality (see section
7.3).
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7.2 Alert event log object

An alert event log object displays all events related to alarm message received from the
serial/network channels which have been associated with this functionality (see section 7.3).
7.3 Selecting data sources

“Tools->Setup Alert Management Input” opens the “Alert management” tool.
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8 Objects related to images received over IEC 61162-450

The section is only relevant for the DM100-2014.
8.1 Object for showing “status and information text”

Additional data, so-called “status and information text” are transmitted with images sent to the
VDR using the IEC 61162-450 protocol. These data may be displayed using the “image data with
meta data object” rather the normal “image data object”
8.2 Object for showing “display source information”

An ECDIS for example must, according the VDR standard, send “display source information” at a
minimum every 10 minutes to the VDR. For example, information about which chart is currently in
use.
A “Display source information object” may be used to show these data.
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9 VDR and VDR Explorer configuration management

The VDR Explorer uses information from both the VDR configuration (if available) and a VDR
Explorer configuration. The VDR configuration contains useful information about what is
connected to the VDR. Information from the VDR configuration may, for example, enable the VDR
Explorer to use the name “SI02 Input from GPS” for serial input port #2 rather than just the default
name “SI02”.
These functions are normally not needed except for “Tools->VDR Explorer config management->
Save VDR Explorer-configuration to source”. This function is used for storing the final VDR
Explorer configurations in the capsule. This will enable any PC with the VDR Explorer installed to
replay data from that VDR correctly. In addition, the saved VDR Explorer-configuration is
prerequisite for being able to perform an OPT.
9.1 VDR configuration management

Tools->VDR config management->Load VDR configuration from file
Facilitates load of an alternative VDR configuration from a file.
Tools->VDR config management->Load VDR configuration from source

Reloads the original VDR configuration from the source.
Tools->VDR config management->Set VDR configuration to default

Restores the VDR configuration to default; i.e. all labels will then correspond to what is printed on
the data interface modules e.g. “SI02”.
Tools->VDR config management->Save VDR configuration from source to file

Saves the VDR configuration present on the source to a file.
Tools->VDR config management->Save VDR configuration from source to HTML file

Saves the VDR configuration present on the source to an HTML file.
Tools->VDR config management->Display VDR configuration from source

Displays the VDR configuration found at the source to which the
VDR Explorer is currently connected.
9.2 VDR Explorer configuration management

A few special commands related to VDR Explorer configuration management are included here.
Commonly used commands like Open, Save etc. are included in the “File” dropdown menu.
Tools->VDR Explorer config management-> Load VDR Explorer-configuration from source

Tool for reloading of a VDR Explorer configuration from the data source
1) VDR (live playing): The configuration stored in the capsule will be loaded.
2) Capsule/backup disk: The configuration stored in the capsule/on the backup disk will be loaded.
3) Extracted data: A dialog box enables the user to load the original.
Tools->VDR Explorer config management-> Save VDR Explorer-configuration to source

Tool for saving the VDR Explorer configuration at the data source.
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1) VDR (live playing): The current VDR Explorer configuration is stored in the capsule and on the
backup disk via the VDR. The VDR Explorer must be connected as “Master”.
2) Capsule/backup disk: The VDR Explorer is not able to write to a capsule/backup disk and is
consequently not able to save the VDR Explorer configuration at the source if data source is a
capsule/backup disk
3) Extracted data: The VDR Explorer is not able to write to an extraction is consequently not able to
save the VDR Explorer configuration at the source if data source is an extraction.
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10 Connect dialog box

Tools->connect opens the “Connect” dialog box.
The “Connect” dialog box is used for connecting the VDR Explorer to a data source. Four types of
data sources are supported:
• VDR extraction
• Live from a VDR
• A capsule (only MK2 and MK3) *
• A backup disk
The connect dialog box changes according to the selected type of data source.
* Data from MK4 and MK1 float-free must be downloaded using Tools-> Download from Ethernet capsule / float-free
10.1 Capsule
“Capsules online” window:
The “Capsules online” window displays a small symbol for each capsule which is physically
connected to the VDR Explorer PC via the Firewire interface. A capsule is selected by left -clicking
on its symbol. (Note: It is unusual to connect more the one capsule, but up to three capsules may be
connected simultaneous if necessary)
“Refresh” button:
Forces the VDR Explorer to scan the Firewire for capsules and update the window.
“Analyze” button and “track information” window:

The selected capsule may be analyzed for its content. The result is displayed in the “track
information window”. For more information about tracks, consult section 12.1.1
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“Connect” button:
Establishes a connection from the VDR Explorer software to the selected capsule. This may take a
few seconds.
“Cancel”
Closes the window.
10.2 Backup
A disk that has been removed from a VDR
The dialog for connecting a Backup Disk corresponds to the dialog for connecting a capsule,
described in section 10.1.
10.3 VDR extraction

“Browse” button:
Opens a standard file browser dialog box, which is used to locate and open a file containing a VDR
extraction (file extension is .vee).
“Analyze” button and “track information” window:

The selected file may be analyzed for its content. The result is displayed in the “track information
window”. For more information about tracks consult section 12.1.1.
Connects the VDR Explorer to the selected database.
“Cancel” button:
Closes the “Connect dialog” window.
10.4 Live
“Connect to IP” field:
The IP address of the VDR must be entered here.
“Get information” button:

Tests the connection to the VDR with the IP address displayed in the “Connect to IP” field. Status
information from the VDR will (if the tested VDR is online) be displayed in the VDR “Information
field”.
Connects the VDR Explorer to a VDR with the IP address displayed in the “Connect to IP” field.
Closes the “Connect dialog” window.
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11 Decoder library
The NMEA decoder library is used to organize the NMEA decoders. A NMEA decoder is a small
script which describes how information is being decoded and retrieved from a specific NMEA
sentence. The syntax for the script language is described in section 19. A short description is
available under “Help->Help Topics” in the decoder editor.
Tools->decoder library opens the decoder library.
11.1 Properties for NMEA decoders
Sentence formatter:
An NMEA decoder is only able to retrieve information from one specific NMEA sentence.
A typical NMEA decoder is only able to retrieve information from one field in an NMEA sentence.
Most NMEA sentences contain many fields; so a number of decoders may be needed for retrieving
all the information from one sentence.
Decoder group:
An NMEA decoder belongs to a group; all decoders in the same group are stored in the same folder.
Groups have been defined corresponding to the data items to be recorded (IEC 61996 section 4.6),
e.g. speed (4.6.3) or heading (4.6.4). The user may establish new groups.
Decoder name:
A decoder must be assigned a name. The name must be unique within the decoder group.
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(Write) protected decoders:

A number of standard decoders (protected decoders) have been defined. These decoders are write-
protected and cannot be changed or deleted. However it is possible to use one of these decoders as a
template for a new decoder.
Sub-library file:
The VDR Explorer at startup “compiles” the library from a number of library files each containing a
number of decoders. The standard decoders are stored in one file and another file is used to store the
user-defined decoders. More library files for specific purposes may be added.
Decoder output:
The output from a decoder may behave like analog data, digital data or a text string. This
information may be described for a decoder. However, this information is only informative and will
not be used by the VDR Explorer.
11.2 NMEA decoder library window
11.2.1 Drop down menus

File->import:
Imports decoders from an external file. The imported decoders will be added to the user-defined sub
library file.
File->export:
Exports decoders to an external file.
File->Save in library:
Saves decoder in library.
File->Close:
Closes the window. Corresponds to cancel.
Edit->New decoder:
Adds a new decoder to the library.
Edit->New folder:
Adds a new folder to the library.
Edit->Copy:
Makes a copy of the selected decoder.
Edit->Edit:
Opens the decoder edit window.
Edit->Rename:
Renames the selected decoder or folder.
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Edit->Delete:
Deletes the selected decoder or folder.
11.2.2 Decoder library tree

The decoder library tree is shown to the left. The “radio buttons” at the top are used to define how
the library is organized.
A pop up menu appears if the you right click on a

folder or a decoder. This menu enables you to add,
rename, copy and delete folders and decoders.
For “Import to Folder” consult section 11.2.1
Note: It is only possible to create a new “root folder”
by right-clicking on the empty space beneath the
“library tree”. Pop up for decoder Pop up for folder
11.2.3 Decoder description

The properties for the selected decoder are shown in decoder description located to the right in the
NMEA decoder library window. Consult section 11.1 for more details.
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11.3 NMEA Decoder Editor

The NMEA decoder editor may either be opened from the decoder library or from the settings menu
for a gauge/alphanumeric data field.
11.3.1 Drop down menus
File->Save as:
Closes the editor window and opens the NMEA decoder library window where the new name and
folder (group) may be defined. This item is only present if the editor is called from the NMEA
decoder library.
File->Close:
Closes the editor window. The user will be prompted for unsaved changes.
Edit->Undo
Edit->Redo
Edit->Cut
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Edit->Copy
Edit->Paste
Edit->Delete
Commands for the Editor
Tools->Insert symbol
A menu with symbols normally not found on a keyboard will be displayed.
Help->Help topics:
A description of the decoder script language will be displayed.
11.3.2 Tool bar

A tool bar is located below the drop down menus. The tool bar contains short cuts (icons) to the
most commonly used items from the drop down menus.
11.3.3 General buttons
“OK” button:
Changes made will be stored; the editor window is then closed. The previous version of the decoder
is overwritten. It is not possible to overwrite the decoders that are supplied with the VDR Explorer.
Closes the editor window. Any changes made will be ignored and lost.
“Save As” button:

The editor window will close. Changes may be saved using a new name/folder while maintaining
the previous version of the decoder.
The “Save As” button is only enabled if the editor window is opened from the library (i.e. disabled
when opened from the GUI configurator).
11.3.4 Decoder information
Decoder name:
See section 11.1
Decoder output:
See section 11.1
Decoder description:
A description of the decoder may be included (recommended).
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11.3.5 Editor window

A script defining the decoder must be entered in the NMEA decoder window. The “sentence
formatter field” derives information from the “search for” statement in the decoder script. The full
name for the NMEA sentence will be displayed if the sentence formatter is known.
“Help->Help topics” shows a short description of the script language. Section 19 contains an
extensive description of the script language.
11.3.6 Decoder test

A decoder may be tested against an NMEA sentence if the test decoder button is activated. Two
things happen when the test button is activated:
1. The script will be compiled; i.e. the syntax is checked. The text in the “NMEA test
sentence” field will not influence this. The test will only continue if the compilation is
successful.
2. The NMEA decoder will decode the NMEA sentence shown in “NMEA test sentence” field.
This is, of course, only meaningful if the NMEA sentence formatter in the test sentence
matches the NMEA sentence formatter in the decoder’s “search for” statement. The data
output and the trend output will be displayed upon a successful test.
11.3.6.1 “NMEA test sentence” field

A test sentence may be entered in this field. Copy/paste from, e.g. the serial monitor, may be used.
The ten most recent test sentences will be saved.
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12 Extractor
The Extractor is used to retrieve data from a data source to a file. The VDR Explorer must be
connected to a data source (not live from a VDR) before the Extractor tool can be opened.
12.1.1 Track information

The track information for the currently selected capsule or backup disk is displayed in this window.
A track is defined as an uninterrupted recording session. This typically corresponds to a time period
where the VDR was not interrupted, e.g. by a restart. However, other events may divide a recording
into two tracks, e.g. a bad record (checksum error) on the disk or a VDR configuration change.
One or more tracks must be selected before the extraction process can start. The sliders on the blue
bar may be used to reduce the amount of data used from the selected track.
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Extraction options
Only relevant for a DM100-2014 VDR. Used for specifying how OPT data is to be handled.
Extraction target:
Displays the currently selected (if any) target file for the extraction.
“Extract” button:
Starts the extraction process.
“Close” button:
Closes the window.
Overview for the extraction process step by step:
1. Connect to a capsule or backup disk using the connect tool.

2. Open the extractor tool.
3. Select and optionally shorten the duration of tracks to be extracted.
4. Select how OPT data is to be handled (only DM100-2014 VDR).
5. Select (Browse) the target file for the extraction.
6. Start extraction process using the “Extract” button.
Extracting all data from a capsule takes approximately from 20 minutes to 2 hours depending on
the size of the capsule.
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13 Data Export Tool

The “Data Export Tool” may be used for exporting the VDR data into either an IEC61996-1/2
compatible format or an open industry format.
Data IEC61996-1/2 format Open industry format

Audio Wave files (*.wav) Wave files (*.wav)
Images Bitmap (*.bmp)/PNG(*.png) Compressed Tiff (*.tif)
PNG(*.png)
Serial data One comma separated data file Text files (*.txt)
Analog and Digital data (*.txt) Comma separated files (*.csv) Note 1
Power status Comma separated files (*.csv) Note 1
Alarms Text files (*.txt)
System log Text files (*.txt) Text files (*.txt)
Configuration HTML file (*.htm) HTML file (*.htm)
Note 1) The separator will be “,” or “;” depending on the regional settings for the VDR Explorer (Options ->
Preferences -> Regional Settings)
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A data source must be selected before opening the export tool (see section 10).
Click on “Tools -> Export data” and the data export tool dialog box opens.
Select the data to be exported (checkmark all boxes if all data is to be exported).
Select a folder for the data (Click on “Browse to folder”).
Select whether the export format should be IEC61996-1/2 (“IMO mode” checked) or an alternative
open industry (“IMO mode” not checked). For IMO mode is it possible to split the audio files, data
file and the system log into smaller handier files each covering a user-definable time span.
Click on “Export”.
13.1.1 Export raw serial data

Time stamps for serial data will be omitted if “Export raw data” is selected (radio button to the
right). Data from each serial channel will be exported to an individual file.
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14 Audio settings tool
The speaker symbols may be used (by left-clicking on them) for selecting and directing audio
channels to the left or right speaker channel on the PC used for replaying.
A master volume control is located to the right.
The compression effect is useful when listening to recordings with a high dynamic range.
14.1 Password protected audio

Audio may be password protected i.e. replay of audio disabled unless the correct password is
entered. Audio replay may be enabled by opening the Audio Settings Tool and entering the correct
password when prompted.
The password is defined by the configuration for the VDR.
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15 Data Log
The data log function is able to log data from selected objects into a CSV file. The data log function
is associated with a special tab page. The data log tab page is created as any other tab page.
• The VDR Explorer must be set in configuration mode.

• Right click on a tab for a tab page and then select “tab properties”. This opens the “tab page
organizer”.
• Click on “add” and select the “Data Logger Tab”.
15.1 Configuration of data log

Columns may be created by two methods.
15.1.1 Direct creations of columns

• The VDR Explorer must be in configuration mode.
• Right-click on the title bar for the columns next to “Timestamp”.
• Click on “add column” and a list of relevant objects appear.
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• Select an object and click on OK
• Enter the title, click ok and a new column is created.
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15.1.2 Indirect creations of columns
• The VDR Explorer must be in configuration mode.

• Open the properties dialog for an object that is able to input data to the data log (short
standard object and standard object)
• Check “Add to log” and a new column is created.
• Change the title if needed. Right-click on the title, select “Column Title” and enter a new
title.
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15.1.3 Organizing columns

The VDR Explorer must be (with a few exceptions) in configuration mode.
Right-clicking on the title for column opens a menu with miscellaneous commands.
In general the width and order of the column can be changed in the same manner as for many other
Windows programs, e.g. using “click, drag and drop” on the column title can be used to rearrange
columns.
15.1.4 Maximum number of columns

The maximum number of columns that can be handled depends on the PC. A PC that meets the
general requirements for the VDR Explorer will be able to handle 25 columns without any
noticeable performance degradation.
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15.2 Saving log data to a file

The program will store the data to a user-defined output file.
The library path for the log files is defined by the preferences for the VDR Explorer. See section
15.3
15.2.1 Max file size

Maximum file size is user-defined. Data logging will stop when the file is full. The file may then be
reset (or renamed/moved using Windows Explore).
15.2.2 Sample interval

The sample interval is user-defined. Fast sampling (small intervals) requires lot of disk space.
15.3 Preferences
15.3.1 Directory path for log files
The library path for the log files is defined by the preferences for the VDR Explorer (VDR Explorer
main window, Options->Preferences->Directory settings).
15.3.2 Disable data logging at connect

Data logging without explicit acceptance can be restricted (VDR Explorer main window: Options-
>Preferences->Data Logger).
On: Data logging must be started manually even if a VDR Explorer configuration with
“data logger enable” is loaded.
Off: Data logging will start automatically if a VDR Explorer configuration with “data
logger enable” is loaded.
Prompt: (Default) the user will be prompted for acceptance of data logging.
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16 Alarm panel
The Alarm panel is a tool which can be used for analyzing recorded and live data. It can be
configure to generate an alarm if a specific event happens.
Please notice, that the Alarm panel is not related to the objects for displaying data from the vessel’s
alert management system (described in section 7).
Selecting “Tools->Alarm Display” or clicking on the icon on the Player window tool bar will
activate the alarm window.
Acknowledge all alarms:

This function acknowledges all alarms on the list. An alarm may be acknowledged individually by
clicking on the icon for that alarm.
Delete all alarms:

The function deletes all alarms from the list. An alarm may be deleted individually by clicking on
the icon for that alarm.
Acknowledge audio:
This function mutes the audio until a new alarm is generated.
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Options->Disable sound:
This option mutes the audio related to the alarms panel completely.
Options->Disable popup:
This option prevents the alarm window from popping up when a new alarm is generated.
16.1.1 Easy localization of alarms-source

Double-clicking on the text for an alarm brings the tab page from where the alarm is generated to
the front.
16.2 Default setting for alarm panel

The default settings for the alarm panel may be set from the Player’s main window by selecting
“Option->Preferences”.
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16.3 Configuration of objects for alarms

Most objects can generate an alarm to the alarm panel.
The parameters for generating alarms are located together with the other parameters related to a
data source see section 5.8.
23
The example above shows how an alarm will be generated if the wind speed is above 23kts.
Active:
The object will only generate alarms if this box is checked.
Alarm text:
The text that will be written in the alarm window.
Level Alarm:
An alarm will be generated if the output is above or alternatively under a specific level.
For serial communication, please note that the trend output from an NMEA decoder is used for the
alarm system.
Alarm on new data:

An alarm will be generated every time data is received (only applicable for serial data).
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17 Relay of serial output to other applications

The VDR Explorer is able to relay serial data to other applications.
17.1 Output port settings

An output port on the PC for the serial data is needed and must be configured. These parameters are
included in the VDR Explorer’s preferences (Options->Preference->Port Settings).
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17.2 Configuration of serial output

The VDR Explorer must be in configuration mode.
A click on “Tools->Setup Serial Output” opens the tool for configuring the sources of the serial
output.
The number of data sources and the output port may be selected.
17.2.1 Merging of data

The program is designed to handle NMEA sentences; i.e. two sentences will not be interleaved but
sent one at a time. The program may fail to relay ASCII or binary data correctly depending on the
properties of the data.
17.3 Enable/Disable output

An icon on the VDR Explorer tool bar can be used to enable/disable the serial output. This can
be done while the VDR Explorer is playing/replaying data.
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17.4 Overflow on serial port

The serial output port may overflow if the combined inputs exceed the capacity of the output port.
The warning may be displayed if this happens. It is possible to suppress the message. This will be in
force until output is disabled and then enabled.
17.5 Serial output and step

The VDR Explorer is able to generate serial output while stepping. However the output port may be
congested and steps may take very long time to process.
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18 Special features
18.1 Floating windows
Note: This new feature has been designed for experienced users. Using floating windows in
configuration mode may be confusing.
A tab page may be detached from the VDR Explorer’s main window. This is either done by “click,
drag and drop” or double-clicking on the tab for a tab page.
Right-clicking on the top bar for a floating window opens a menu with items for manipulating the
window, e.g. making it full screen.
Double-clicking on the top bar for a floating window reverts the window to a tab page. A floating
window will also revert to a tab page if the corner of the window is aligned with the corner of the
first tab in the VDR Explorer’s main window.
18.1.1 “Windows” dropdown menu

A dropdown menu (Windows) has been added to the menu bar for the VDR Explorer’s main
window. The window selected from this menu will be brought to the front.
18.2 Support for PCs with lower screen resolution

The VDR Explorer is designed for 1280x1024 and above, however a PC with lower screen
resolution may be used with minor inconvenience.
18.3 Vessel information

Complete vessel information is normally not displayed. “View->Vessel information” may be used
to open/close a window for displaying complete vessel information.
One “data item” related to Vessel information (vessel name is default) is displayed next to the tool
bar for the VDR Explorer’s main window.
18.4 Play control

“View->Play Control” may be used to hide/show the Play Control. The Play Control may also be
moved around (click, drag and drop).
18.5 Full screen radar image

Full-screen radar image is entered and exited by double-clicking on the image.
18.6 Full screen graph object

A double-click on a graph object expands it to full-screen. A full-screen graph will return to normal
size upon a double-click.
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18.7 Full AIS display

A double-click on an AIS display object expands it to full-screen. A full-screen AIS display object
will return to normal size upon a double-click.
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19 NMEA sentence formatting script language V3.0

19.1 Purpose
The purpose of this language is to easily match a given NMEA sentence and format it to human-
readable text. This implies that both pattern matching ability and string formatting ability must be a
part of the language. The resulting human-readable text will have a value associated with it. This
value is used for the trend indicator and is most likely taken from the NMEA sentence.
19.2 Language introduction

Matching and formatting an NMEA sentence consists of applying a small compiled program to an
NMEA sentence. The output from this program will be a formatted string and an optional value. In
this context, a program is a compiled set of statements in the NMEA sentence formatting language.
The source for a program in this language consists of a sequence of statements. Each statement will
be executed in the order they are written; i.e. the language is a straight-line language. If a statement
fails, the program will exit.
19.3 Language example

The syntax and semantics of the language is best shown by use of an example.
The following NMEA sentence is to be formatted:
Field no: | 1 | 2 |3| 4 |5| 6 | 7

Sentence: $GPGLL,5536.1234,N,01244.1234,E,123456.78,A*1B
into the following result: “N 55°36.123” and the associated trend value “5536.1234” . Running the
following program does this:
// This is a comment and have no effect on the program

Search for “GLL”
If #7 <> “A”
print “GPS failed”
Stop
EndIf
Print #3
Print “ “
Print #2 1:2
Print “°”
Print #2 3:6 F00.000
Trend #2
The first line is a comment and has no effect on the program, but can be a useful aid when
developing decoders in the formatting language. The second line “Search for “GLL”” identifies
which NMEA id this program is valid for. The third line uses an “if“ construct to test if field 7
contains the text “A”. If this is the case, the text “GPS failed” is printed and the program stops. If
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not, the program continues onto line three. The next few lines consist of “print” statements on
field identifiers and strings. The hash mark “#” indicates a field identifier:
#field [range] [format]
Where “field” indicates the field number, “range” the range of characters to use and “format”
how the number should be formatted.
Continuous “print” operations can be concatenated into one “print” sentence resulting in a more
compact program:
Search for “GLL”

If #7 <> “A”
print “GPS failed”
Stop
EndIf
Print #3 “ “ #2 1:2 “°” #2 3:6 F00.000
Trend #2
The last line identifies the field which will be used as the trend value.
19.4 Bit function examples

The following fictive NMEA sentence is used:
Field no: | 1 | 2 |3| 4

Sentence: $XXYYY,DEADBEEF01,N,A*1B
search for "YYY"
if bit(#2,2) = 1
print "bit 2"
stop
endif
if bit(#2,1) = 1
print "bit 1"
endif
The output of this program applied to the above NMEA sentence is: “bit 1” since bit 2 is not set. Bit
number is counted from the right hand side and begins at position 1. Hence bit 24-28 is the “B”.
19.5 Operators and reserved words

19.5.1 Operators
The following operators are valid in “if” statements:
Operator Meaning Valid types on the right side of operator

= Equality Strings, integers and real numbers
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<> Inequality Strings, integers and real numbers

<= Greater or equal Integers and real numbers
>= Less or equal Integers and real numbers
< Less than Integers and real numbers
> Greater than Integers and real numbers
The left side of an operator must be a field.
19.5.2 Reserved words
Reserved word Meaning
Print Sets the result of a text based object.
Search for Identifies the NMEA sentence the decoder is valid for
If Beginning of an “if” statement. “if” statement cannot be nested.
EndIf Identifies that the “if” statement ends here
Stop Stops the program return result
Break Cancels the program return with no result
Value Sets the result of a number based object (e.g. a gauge).
Trend Alternative keyword for Value. Trend should not be used in new
decoders and is kept for backwards compatibility only.
Add(Field1, Field2) Adds two fields to each other ( Field1 + Field2 ) and returns the
result
Sub(Field1, Field2) Subtracts the two fields from each other ( Field1 - Field2 ) and
returns the result.
Bit(Field, Bit no.) Returns 1 if a bit is set in Field, 0 if not. Field must be a hex string.
If bit does not exist, it returns –1.
Mbit(Field, bit no.) Returns 1 if a bit is set in a Modbus field, 0 if not. Field must be a
Modbus string. If bit does not exist, it returns –1.
Mreg(Field, reg no.) Returns Modbus register if the register exists in the Modbus field.
Field must be a Modbus string. If register does not exist, it returns
–1.
Returns the value of a bit in a Modbus register if the register exists

in the Modbus field. Field must be a Modbus string. If register does
MregBit(Field, reg no., bit no)
not exist, it returns –1. Generates a compile-time error if bit no. is
not within 0..15
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Returns a signed Modbus register if the register exists in the

Msreg(Field, reg no.) Modbus field. Field must be a Modbus string. If register does not
exist, it returns 0. Use Mreg to check whether the register exists.
Returns a double encoded timestamp in Field converted to the

DETime(Field) format "YYYY-MM-DD hh:mm:ss". Double encoded timestamps
are used by e.g. Martec.
Returns a hexadecimal number in Field as decimal. A maximum of

8 hexadecimal characters can be converted. Refer to [range] in the
HexDec(Field)
section "The NMEA field Identifier" below to convert a part of a
field.
This function compares a Reference String with the data in specific

fields in a sentence.
The return value is 1 if a match is found and 0 if not. If a match is
found the position of the matching field is stored in Index.
First Field: The position of the first data field to be checked.
Modulus: The offset to the next data field to be checked.
First Character: First character in the specified data fields to be
compared with the first character in "Reference String" (from left).
Specifying "First Character" is optional - if omitted a default value
of 1 is used.
(A "null" Reference String matches the contents of any field. The
command Find(%Index_id, n, 1, "") can therefore be used to
Find(Index, First Field, check whether field "n" exists in a sentence.)
Modulus, Reference String [,
First Character] ) Example:
$BWDXDR,S,0,,WD.4.13,S,1,,WD.4.12*76
Print Find(%6, 5, 4, ".4.12", 3)
Looks for ".4.12" starting from data field #5 and then every 4th data
field. The comparison with the "Reference String" starts at the 3rd
character in each field.
The result is that "9" is stored in index number 6 and "1" is printed
because the "Find" succeeded.
Please refer to the section "The Index Identifier" below for more
information.
Returns the value of a field relative to the field referenced by Index.

The Offset can be both negative and positive in order to specify a
field respectively before and after the field referenced by Index.
FieldAt(Index [, Offset] ) Specifying Offset is optional. A default value of 0 is used if Offset
is omitted, effectively returning the value of the field referenced by
Index.
The function generates a runtime error if the number stored in Index
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plus Offset points to a non-existing field.

Please refer to the section "The Index Identifier" below for more
information.
Performs a calculation on the value of a field and returns the result.

Calc(Index, Factor, Offset)
The performed calculation is: Factor * ( Fieldvalue + Offset )
Last(Field, Count) Returns the last n characters of a field, where n = count
19.6 Field Identifier
The hash mark “#” indicates a field identifier:
#field [range] [format]
Where “field” indicates the field number beginning from 1.
The “range” is optional and identifies the range of characters to use. The syntax is “x:y” where “x”
is the first character to use (unless “y” is negative) and “y” is the number of characters. If “x” is out
of range then the program is terminated and an error is printed. If “y” is out of range then the
program will print to the end of the field.
If “y” is negative then the characters are selected from left. First to be printed is “x-y+1” and last
character to be printer is “x”
Example:
Field no: | 1 | 2 |3| 4

Sentence: $XXYYY,123456,N,A*1B
search for "YYY"
print #2 3:-2
The printed result will be “23”.
If “x” is negative then the first character to print is selected from the right. Example:
Field no: | 1 | 2 |3| 4

search for "YYY"
print #2 -4:3
This printed result will be “345”.
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To print everything but the last two characters of field 2:
Field no: | 1 | 2 |3| 4

search for "YYY"
print #2 -3:-99
Will print “1234”
The “format” field is optional and similar to the one used in Visual Basic. The maximum length of
a formatter is limited to 10 characters, including the decimal point.
E.g.:
Formatter Data to display

- 14.75 0.336 -17 278
F0 14 0 -17 278
F00.00 14.75 00.34 -17.00 278.00
F0.000 14.750 0.336 -17.000 278.000
F000.0 014.8 000.3 -017.0 278.0
A000.0 014.8 000.3 017.0 278.0
N000.0 -014.8 -000.3 017.0 -278.0
By replacing the “F” with an “A” the result will be formatted into an absolute value. The following
syntaxes are not allowed: “F0.” and “F.0”
19.7 The Index Identifier
The percentage sign “%” indicates an index identifier:
%Index_id
where "Index_id" is a number between 1 and 9.
An Index is used by the "Find command" to store a pointer/reference to a field in a sentence.

%Index_id may be used as parameter for If, Print, Trend and Value commands (the value is a
reference (number) to a field in a sentence).
Use the FieldAt command to get the value (content) of the field referenced by an index.
Examples:
$BWDXDR,S,0,,WD.4.13,S,1,,WD.4.12*76
Find(%2, 5, 4, "WD.4.12") // Stores "9" in index number 2 ("%2")

Print %2 // Prints "9" (the field number found above)
Print FieldAt(%2) // Prints "WD.4.12" (the value of field number 9)
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Print FieldAt(%2, -2) // Prints "1" (the value of field number 9 + (-2) =
7)
$PSM1,KA,DO06115,DO04411,9E
Find(%5, 3, 1, "06115", 3) // Stores "3" in index number 5 ("%5")

Print %5 // Prints "3" (the field number found above)
Print FieldAt(%5) // Prints "DO06115" (the value of field number 3)
Print FieldAt(%5, 1) // Prints "DO04411" (the value of field number 3 +
1 = 4)
19.8 Strings
Strings must be enclosed in quotes. If a string contains quotes itself, then these quotes must be
prefixed with a backslash ("\").
Example:
$PSM1,KA,En33022S,En"DET-33.022.T,Fn61051,E7
If #4 = "En\"DET-33.022.T"
Print "Ok!"
Endif
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19.9 Decoding of Modbus

The VDR is able to record Modbus communication (this requires VDR software version 2.05 or
newer).
The VDR can operate as Modbus slave or master. The format of the data and the corresponding
decoders depend on this.
The Modbus data will be encapsulated as NMEA strings before they are stored by the VDR.
The sentence formatter is: PMTM<PDU main group><Master flag>
PMTM: Common prefix for all NMEA strings related to Modbus encapsulation
PDU group: Modbus defines a number of different commands for read/write of bits and registers.
These have been compiled into four groups:
RDB: Read bit
WRB: Write bit
RDR: Read Register
WRR Write Register
Master flag: Sentence formatter is terminated by “M” if the string contains data sent to the master;
i.e. the NMEA string contains a Modbus response
19.9.1 Data format for VDR configured as Modbus slave

The control system (master) sends data to the VDR on a regular basis. Both requests from and
answers to the control system will be recorded by the VDR. The requests from the control system
contain the data of interest, while the answers to the control system are informational only.
The control system will in this case use different forms of Modbus write commands; i.e. the decoder
scripts must search for PMTMWRB and PMTMWRR
Do not make scripts for the responses to the control system if the VDR is configured as Modbus
slave; i.e. do not search for sentence formatter terminated with an “M”
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Function code Sentence Sentence Modbus Modbus Recorded

formatter for formatter for Request Response response
Master request Response Format Format
from VDR
0x01: READ RDB RDBM 2: Address 1: #Bytes, N 2: Address
COILS 2: #Coils N: Data 2: #Coils
1: #Bytes, N
N: Data
0x02: READ as above as above as above as above as above
DISCRETE
IMPUTS
0x03: READ RDR RDRM 2: Address 1: #Bytes, N 2: Address
HOLDING 2: #Reg. N: Data 2: #Reg.
REGISTERS 1: #Bytes, N
N: Data
INPUT
REGISTERS
0x05: WRITE WRB WRBM 2: Address 2: Address 2: Address
SINGLE COIL 2: Data 2: Data 2: Data
0x06: WRITE WRR WRRM as above as above as above
SINGLE
REGISTER
0x07, 0x08, DIA DIAM As received
0x0B, 0x0C, Not decodable
0x11, 0x2B: by Player
Various
diagnostics
0x0F: WRITE WRB WRBM 2: Address 2: Address 2: Address
MULTIPLE 2: #Coils 2: #Coils 2: #Coils
COILS 1: #Bytes, N
N: Data
0x10: WRITE WRR WRRM 2: Address 2: Address 2: Address
MULTIPLE 2: #Reg. 2: #Reg. 2: #Reg.
N: Data
0x17: WRR RDRM 2: Read Addr 1: #Bytes, N 2: Read Addr
READ/WRIT 2: #Read reg. N: Read Data 2: #Read reg.
E MULTIPLE 2: Write Addr 1: #Bytes, N
REGISTERS 2: #Write reg. N: Read data
1: #Bytes, M
M: Write Data
OTHERS OTH OTHM As received
EXCEPTION EXP EXCM Not decodable
by Player
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19.9.2 Data format for VDR configured as Modbus master

The VDR polls the control system (slave) on a regular basis. Both requests to and answers from the
control system will be recorded by the VDR. The answers from the control system contain the data
of interest, while the requests to the control system are informational only.
The control system will in this case respond to different forms of Modbus read request; i.e. the
decoder scripts must search for PMTMRDBM and PMTMRDRM
Do not make scripts for the request to the control system if the VDR is configured as Modbus
master; i.e. search only for sentence formatter terminated with an “M”.
Function code Sentence Sentence Modbus Modbus Recorded

formatter for formatter for Request Response response
VDR Master Response to Format Format
request VDR Master
0x01: READ RDB RDBM 2: Address 1: #Bytes, N 2: Address
COILS 2: #Coils N: Data 2: #Coils
1: #Bytes, N
N: Data
DISCRETE
IMPUTS
0x03: READ RDR RDRM 2: Address 1: #Bytes, N 2: Address
HOLDING 2: #Reg. N: Data 2: #Reg.
N: Data
INPUT
REGISTERS
19.9.3 Modbus functions

These functions are only relevant when decoding Modbus data.
MBIT( #<field no.> , <bit no.> )
Field number: Always equal to 2 with the current encoding

Bit no.: 0x01 to 0x10000
Purpose: Used for testing the value for a bit in a “write multiple/single coils” command PDU.
Returns 1 if the bit is 1
Returns 0 if the bit is 0
Returns -1 if the bit is not present.
Used as a function in IF and PRINT statements:
SEARCH FOR “PMTMWRB” //(or “PMTMRDBM” if VDR is master)
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Danelec Marine A/S
IF MBIT(#2,0x0021) < 0
// No bit so break without result
BREAK
ENDIF
IF MBIT(#2, 0x0021) = 0
PRINT “off”
TREND 0
ENDIF
IF MBIT(#2, 0x0021) = 1
PRINT “on”
TREND 1
ENDIF
Used on the following Modbus sentence:
Multiple Coil (write) : $PMTMWRB,010F002000100255551A2F,A*70
Gives the result “on” and trend “1”.
Description:
The specified field must contain a complete Modbus command coded as ASCII characters.
- The function code must be equal to “0F”, “05”, “01”, “02” (character 3:2).
Read or Write single bit:

The address for the bit must match the “output address”, character 5:4.
Read or Write multiple bits:

- The bit must be within the addressed range; i.e. “starting address” to (“starting address” +
“quantity of outputs” –1). “Starting address” is character 5:4 and “quantity of outputs” is character
9:4
MREGBIT(#<field no.>,<register no.>,<bit no.>)
Used as an operator in IF and PRINT statements.
Field number: Always equal to 2 with the current encoding.

Register no.: 0x01 to 0x10000
Bit no.: 0 to 15
Purpose: Used for reading one bit in a register from a write multiple/single register command PDU.
Returns the value of the bit in the register if present in the PDU
Returns –1 if the register value is not present
Generates a compile-time error if bit no. is not within 0 to 15
MREG(#<field no.>,<register no.>)
Purpose: Used for reading a register from a read/write multiple/single register command PDU.
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Danelec Marine A/S
Returns the value from the register if present in the PDU

Returns –1 if the register value is not present
Used as a function in PRINT and IF statements:
SEARCH FOR “PMTMWRR” //(or “PMTMRDRM” if VDR is master)
IF MREG(#2,0x9c42) < 0
// No register so break without result
BREAK
ENDIF
PRINT “Register : ” MREG(#2, 0x9c42)

TREND MREG(#2, 0x9c42)
Multiple Reg (write) : $PMTMWRR,01109C410003061111222233337616,A*6E
Gives the result “Register : 4369” and trend “4369”. ( 4369 = 0x1111).
Description:
The specified field must contain a complete Modbus command coded as ASCII HEX.
- The function code must be equal to “06”, “10”, “17”, “03” or “04” (character 3:2).
Read or Write register:

The address for the specified register must match the “register address”, character 5:4.
Read or Write multiple registers:

- The specified register must be within the addressed range; i.e. “starting address” to (“starting
address” + “quantity of registers” –1). “Starting address” is character 5:4 and “quantity of registers”
is character 9:4
Read/write multiple registers (0x17):

- The specified register must be within the addressed range; i.e. “starting address” to (“starting
address” + “quantity of registers” –1). “Starting address” is character 13:4 and “quantity of
registers” is character 17:4
MSREG(#<field no.>,<register no.>)
Purpose: Used for reading a register from a write multiple/single register command PDU. The
MSREG function returns a signed value (two’s complement) while MREG returns the binary value.
Returns the value from the register if present in the PDU.
Returns 0 if the register value is not present or if the value is 0. Use MREG to test for register
existence.
Used as a function in PRINT and IF statements:
SEARCH FOR “PMTMWRR” //(or “PMTMRDRM” if VDR is master)
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Danelec Marine A/S
IF MREG(#2,0x9c42) < 0
BREAK
ENDIF
PRINT “Register : ” MSREG(#2, 0x9c42)

TREND MSREG(#2, 0x9c42)
Multiple Reg (write) : $PMTMWRR,01109C41000306FFFF222233337616,A*6E
Gives the result “Register : -1” and trend “-1”. ( -1 = 0xFFFF).
Description: See description for MREG
19.9.4 Overlap between input/holding registers and coils/discrete input

It is not possible to distinguish between input/holding registers and coils/discrete input just using
the sentence formatter. The Modbus function code must be decoded for a system that has address
overlap for the input/holding registers or coils/discrete input. (This problem is only relevant if the
VDR is configured as master)
SSEARCH FOR "PMTMRDRM"

IF MREG(#2,0x9c42) < 0
BREAK
ENDIF
IF #2 3:2 <> "04" // Test for read of input registers
// This is not a read of input register so break without result
BREAK
ENDIF
PRINT "Register : " MREG(#2, 0x9c42)

TREND MREG(#2, 0x9c42)
19.10 Other functions

19.10.1 Last function
The last function returns the last characters of a field.
The following fictive NMEA sentence is used:
Field no: | 1 | 2 |3| 4

Sentence: $XXYYY,DEADBEEF01,N,A*1B
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Danelec Marine A/S
search for "YYY"
if last(#2,3) = “F01”
print last(#2,3)
trend last(#2,1)
stop
endif
The printed result will be “F01” and the trend value 1.
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Danelec Marine A/S
Appendix A: DM200 conning display default configuration

Object Title and Input Enabled/ Pre-configured Alternative Decoder
Indicator Disabled decoder script scripts
Numeric data UTC Time SI02 Enabled UTC time (ZDA) UTC time (GGA)
display, left Object 1 UTC time (GLL)
UTC time (GNS)
UTC time (RMC)
UTC Date SI02 Enabled UTC date (ZDA) Date (RMC)
Object 2
Quality ind. SI02 Enabled Quality Indicator
Object 3 (GGA)
Numeric data Latitude SI02 Enabled Latitude (GLL) Latitude (GGA)
display, right Object 1 Latitude (GNS)
Latitude (RMC)
Longitude SI02 Enabled Longitude (GLL) Longitude (GGA)
Object 2 Longitude (GNS)
Longitude (RMC)
COG SI02 Enabled COG true (VTG) COG (RMC)
Object 3
Doppler log n/a SI03 Enabled STW (VHW) STW Longitudinal
indicator Longitudinal speed (VBW)
n/a SI03 Disabled STW transverse
Bow transverse speed (VBW)
n/a SI03 Disabled Stern transv STW
Stern transverse speed (VBW)
n/a SI05 Enabled Wind direction rel
Relative wind (MWV)
Dual dial meter SOG SI02 Enabled Speed (VTG) Speed (RMC)
Dial Meter 1 SOG Longitudinal
Primary (VBW)
STW SI03 Enabled STW (VHW) STW Longitudinal
Dial Meter 2 (VBW)
Primary
Horizontal ruler R.O.T. SI04 Enabled Rate of turn (ROT)
Primary
Compass dial Heading SI04 Enabled Heading true (HDT)
Primary
Anemometer Wind speed r SI05 Enabled Wind speed rel kt
Graph Primary (MWV) note 1
Wind dir r SI05 Enabled Wind direction rel
Secondary (MWV)
Echo sounder Depth SI06 Enabled Depth (DPT)
Graph Primary
Range SI06 Disabled Range (DPT)
Secondary
Note 1) Decoders for other measuring units are available in the library.
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Danelec Marine A/S
Appendix B: DM100 conning display default configuration

Object Title and Input Enabled/ Pre-configured Alternative Decoder
Indicator Disabled decoder script scripts
Numeric data UTC Time SI04 Enabled UTC time (ZDA) UTC time (GGA)
display, left Object 1 UTC time (GLL)
UTC time (GNS)
UTC time (RMC)
UTC Date SI04 Enabled UTC date (ZDA) Date (RMC)
Object 2
Quality ind. SI04 Enabled Quality Indicator
Object 3 (GGA)
Numeric data Latitude SI04 Enabled Latitude (GLL) Latitude (GGA)
display, right Object 1 Latitude (GNS)
Latitude (RMC)
Longitude SI04 Enabled Longitude (GLL) Longitude (GGA)
Object 2 Longitude (GNS)
Longitude (RMC)
COG SI04 Enabled COG true (VTG) COG (RMC)
Object 3
Doppler log n/a SI05 Enabled STW (VHW) STW Longitudinal
indicator Longitudinal speed (VBW)
n/a SI05 Disabled STW transverse
Bow transverse speed (VBW)
n/a SI05 Disabled Stern transv STW
Stern transverse speed (VBW)
n/a SI07 Enabled Wind direction rel
Relative wind (MWV)
Dual dial meter SOG SI04 Enabled Speed (VTG) Speed (RMC)
Dial Meter 1 SOG Longitudinal
Primary (VBW)
STW SI05 Enabled STW (VHW) STW Longitudinal
Dial Meter 2 (VBW)
Primary
Horizontal ruler R.O.T. SI06 Enabled Rate of turn (ROT)
Primary
Compass dial Heading SI06 Enabled Heading true (HDT)
Primary
Anemometer Wind speed r SI07 Enabled Wind speed rel kt
Graph Primary (MWV) note 1
Wind dir r SI07 Enabled Wind direction rel
Secondary (MWV)
Echo sounder Depth SI08 Enabled Depth (DPT)
Graph Primary
Range SI08 Disabled Range (DPT)
Secondary
Note 1) Decoders for other measuring units are available in the library.
9200294-31 Page 90/90

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User Manual for VDR Explorer

For DM100/DM200/DM300 S-VDR and DM100/DM400/DM500 VDR

Document Number 9200294

9200294-31 Page 2/90

REVISION RECORD ........................................................................................................... 2

1 SCOPE AND PURPOSE .......................................................................................... 7

2 SYSTEM OVERVIEW ............................................................................................... 8

3 GUI DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................ 11

4 REPLAY OF DATA, SHORT GUIDE ...................................................................... 14

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5.6.3 Concatenation .................................................................................................. 32

6 AIS DATA DISPLAY ............................................................................................... 40

7 DISPLAY OF DATA FROM VESSEL’S ALERT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM .......... 44

8 OBJECTS RELATED TO IMAGES RECEIVED OVER IEC 61162-450 ................. 46

9 VDR AND VDR EXPLORER CONFIGURATION MANAGEMENT ........................ 47

10 CONNECT DIALOG BOX ....................................................................................... 49

11 DECODER LIBRARY ............................................................................................. 51

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11.2.1 Drop down menus ............................................................................................ 52

13 DATA EXPORT TOOL ........................................................................................... 59

14 AUDIO SETTINGS TOOL ....................................................................................... 61

15 DATA LOG ............................................................................................................. 62

16 ALARM PANEL ...................................................................................................... 67

17 RELAY OF SERIAL OUTPUT TO OTHER APPLICATIONS ................................. 70

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18 SPECIAL FEATURES ............................................................................................ 73

19 NMEA SENTENCE FORMATTING SCRIPT LANGUAGE V3.0 ............................ 75

APPENDIX A: DM200 CONNING DISPLAY DEFAULT CONFIGURATION .................... 89

APPENDIX B: DM100 CONNING DISPLAY DEFAULT CONFIGURATION .................... 90

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1 Scope and purpose

1.2 Terms and Abbreviations

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Source Description Hardware required

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2.1 Connecting a PC to a MK4 fixed capsule

2.2 Connection a PC to MK1 float free

2.3 Connecting the PC to a MK2 and MK3 fixed capsule

Stationary Firewire Crossed CAT5

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2.4 Connecting the PC to a VDR data disk (DM300/DM500)

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3.1 After startup

VDR Explorer window, dropdown menus (MS windows style)

Player control area

Player status bar

VDR Explorer window dropdown menus:

File->New: Creates a new (empty) VDR Explorer configuration

File->Open: Opens an existing VDR Explorer configuration

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File->Exit: Exits the VDR Explorer program.

View->Play control: Displays or hides the play control area.

View->Vessel information: Displays or hides the additional vessel information.

Tools->Audio: Opens the audio settings dialog box.

Tools->Alarm Display: Opens the alarm display window see section 16

Tools->Disconnect: Disconnects the VDR Explorer from the data source.

Tools->Extractor: Opens the Extractor dialog box, see section 12.

Mode->Configuration mode - On: Sets the VDR Explorer to configuration mode.

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