SUG514 - Hydrographic Surveying - Topo Map Vs Navigation Chart, ENC & ECDIS

MARA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Jack Ruzaini
BACHELOR OF GEOMATIC AND SURVEYING SCIENCE (AP220) (jacketphisher@yahoo.com)

HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEYING (SUG514) Topographic Maps vs Nautical Charts, ENC & ECDIS
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
What Is A Nautical Chart? A nautical chart is a graphic representation of a maritime area and coastal
regions. Nautical charts are essential tools for marine navigation which many countries require vessels,
especially commercial ships, to carry them. Nautical charts may take in form of charts printed on paper or
computerised electronic navigational charts.
Nautical charts and maps serve distinctive purposes. Knowing these differences are key to safe marine
navigational practices.
So, we were given a task to investigates what the differences between the nautical charts and
topographic maps. The criteria that we have compared were such like colours, symbolisation, legends
and so on.
Besides we also made a coverage about the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS)
and its relation to Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC).
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2.0 TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS VERSUS NAUTICAL OR NAVIGATIONAL CHARTS
Topographic Maps Navigational Charts
“A map emphasizes land forms, including the “A chart, especially a nautical chart, has special
representation of relief, with shoreline represented unique characteristics including a very detailed and
as an approximate delineation usually at mean sea accurate representation of the coastline, which
level. takes into account varying tidal levels and water
forms, critical to a navigator.
A map is a static document which serves as a
reference guide. A map is not, and cannot be used A chart is a working document. It is used to plot
to plot a course. Rather it provides a predetermined courses for navigators to follow in order to transit a
course, usually a road, path, etc., to be followed. certain area It takes into account special conditions
Special consideration for the type of vehicle is required for one's vessel, such as draft, bottom
rarely a consideration. Further, maps provide clearance, wrecks and obstructions which can be
predetermined points-road intersections-to allow hazardous. Way points are identified to indicate
one a choice to change to another predetermined relative position and points at which specific
direction maneuver such as
changing courses, must be performed.
Maps merely indicate a surface path providing no
information of the condition of the road. For Charts provide detailed information on the area
instance a map will not provide information on beneath the water surface, normally not visible to
whether the road is under repair (except when it is the naked eye, which can and is very critical for the
[1]
a new road) or how many pot holes or other safe and efficient navigation.”
obstructions it may contain. However the driver is
able to make a visual assessment of such
[1]
conditions.”
1. “Differences Between Maps and Charts”, http://www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/mcd/learn_diff_map_chart.html
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Diagram :
Example of
Nautical Chart
Diagram : Example
of Topographic
Maps
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2.1 DIFFERENCES OF LEGEND BETWEEN NAUTICAL CHART AND TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
NAVIGATION CHART LEGEND TOPOGRAPHIC MAP LEGEND
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2.2 DIFFERENCES OF SYMBOL BETWEEN NAUTICAL CHART AND TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
The example of Symbol in Nautical Chart The example of Symbol in Topographic Map
2.3 DIFFERENCES THE USE OF COLOUR BETWEEN NAUTICAL CHART AND TOPOGRAPHIC
MAP
NAUTICAL CHART TOPOGRAPHIC MAP

• sandy areas and rocks (green) • vegetation (green)
• Lighthouses and other navigation lights • water (blue)
(black dots with purple) • densely built-up areas
(gray or red)
• black for cultural (man-made) features
other than roads
• topographic contours (brown)
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2.4 BASIC ELEMENTS OF NAUTICAL CHART
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1. Chart number in national chart series

2. Identification of a latticed chart (if any):
• D for Decca, LC for Loran-C, Om for Omega
3. Chart number in international chart series (if any)
4. Publication note (imprint)
5. Bar Code and Stock number
6. Edition note. In the example: Seventh edition published in June 1996
7. Source data diagram (if any). For attention to navigators: use caution where surveys are
inadequate
8. Dimensions of inner borders
9. Corner coordinates
10. Chart title (may be quoted when ordering a chart, in addition to chart number)
11. Explanatory notes on chart construction, etc. (to be read before using chart)
12. Seals: In the example, the national and International Hydrographic Organization seals show that
this national chart is also an international one. Purely national charts have the national seal only.
Reproductions of charts of other nations (facsimile) have the seals of the original producer (left),
publisher (center) and the IHO (right).
13. Projection and scale of chart at stated latitude. The scale is precisely as stated only at the latitude
quoted.
14. Linear scale on large-scale charts
15. Reference to a larger-scale chart
16. Cautionary notes (if any). Information on particular features, to be read before using chart
17. Reference to an adjoining chart of similar scale.
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2.5 DETAILS ON NAUTICAL CHART
2.5.1 PILOTAGE INFORMATION

The chart uses symbols to provide
pilotage information about the nature
and position of features useful to
navigators, such as sea bed information,
sea marks and landmarks. Some
symbols describe the sea bed with
information such as its depth, materials
as well as possible hazards such as
shipwrecks. Other symbols show the
position and characteristics of buoys,
lights, lighthouses, coastal and land features and structures that are useful for position fixing.
Colours distinguish between man-made features, dry land, seabed that dries with the tide and
seabed that is permanently underwater and indicate water depth.
2.4.2 DEPTHS
Use of colour in
charts Depths which
have been measured
are indicated by the
numbers shown on
the chart. Depths on
charts published in
most parts of the
world use metres.
Older charts, as well

as those published by the United States government, may use feet or fathoms. Depth contour
lines show the shape of underwater relief. Coloured areas of the sea emphasise shallow water
and dangerous underwater obstructions. Depths are measured from the chart datum, which will
be stated on the chart; this is often the depth of the lowest tide caused by gravity alone which is
known as the "Lowest Astronomical Tide".
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2.4.3 TIDAL INFORMATION

Tidal races and other strong currents have special chart symbols. Tidal flow information may be
shown on charts using tidal diamonds, indicating the speed and bearing of the tidal flow during
each hour of the tidal cycle.
2.4.4 SHORELINE
The shoreline shown on nautical charts represents the line of contact between the land and water
at a selected vertical datum. In areas affected by tidal fluctuations, this is usually the mean high-
water line. In confined coastal waters of diminished tidal influence, a mean water level line may
be used. The shoreline of interior waters (rivers, lakes) is usually a line representing a specified
elevation above a selected datum. A shoreline is symbolized by a heavy line. A broken line
indicates that the charted position is approximate only. The nature of the shore may be indicated.
If the low water line differs

considerably from the high water line,
then a dotted line represents the low
water line. If the bottom in this area is
composed of mud, sand, gravel or
stones, the type of material will be
indicated. If the bottom is composed of
coral or rock, then the appropriate
symbol will be used. The area
alternately covered and uncovered may be shown by a tint which is usually a combination of the
land and water tint.
The apparent shoreline shows the outer edge of marine vegetation where that limit would appear
as shoreline to the mariner. It is also used to indicate where marine vegetation prevents the
mariner from defining the shoreline. A light line symbolizes this shoreline. A broken line marks the
inner edge when no other symbol (such as a cliff or levee) furnishes such a limit. The combined
land-water tint or the land tint marks the area between inner and outer limits.
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2.5 TYPES OF SCALES AND PROJECTION
The scale of a chart is the ratio of a given distance on the chart to the actual distance which it represents
on the earth. It may be expressed in various ways. The most common are:
1. A simple ratio or fraction, known as the representative fraction. For example,

1:80,000 or 1/80,000 means that one unit (such as a meter) on the chart represents
80,000 of the same unit on the surface of the earth. This scale is sometimes called
the natural or fractional scale.
2. A statement that a given distance on the earth equals a given measure on the chart,
or vice versa. For example, “30 miles to the inch” means that 1 inch on the chart
represents 30 miles of the earth’s surface. Similarly, “2 inches to a mile” indicates
that 2 inches on the chart represent 1 mile on the earth. This is sometimes called the
numerical scale.
3. A line or bar called a graphic scale may be drawn at a convenient place on the
chart and subdivided into nautical miles, meters, etc.
A chart covering a relatively large area is called a small-scale chart and one covering a
relatively small area is called a large-scale chart.
As scale decreases, the amount of detail which can be shown decreases also. Cartographers selectively
decrease the detail in a process called generalization when producing small scale charts using large
scale charts as sources. The amount of detail shown depends on several factors, among them the
coverage of the area at larger scales and the intended use of the chart.
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The Mercator projection is almost universally used in nautical charts. There are however some
exceptions for very large or small scales where projections such as the gnomonic projection may be
used. Since the Mercator projection is conformal, that is, bearings in the chart are identical to the
corresponding angles in nature, bearings may be measured from the chart to be used at sea or plotted on
the chart from measurements taken at sea.
Positions of places shown on the chart can be measured from the longitude and latitude scales on the
borders of the chart, relative to a map datum such as WGS 84.
A bearing is the angle between the line joining the two points of interest and the line from one of the
points to the north, such as a ship’s course or a compass reading to a landmark. On nautical charts, the
top of the chart is always true north, rather than magnetic north, towards which a magnetic
compass points. Most charts include a compass rose depicting the variation between magnetic and true
north.
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2.6 SOURCES INFORMATION ON NAUTICAL CHART (Based on an example of NOAA Chart)
The nautical chart conveys a wealth of information to the mariner. The graphic below illustrates a sample
of the type of information that appears on nautical charts.
1. Floating aids to navigation established and maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard mark channels
and other features such as wrecks and obstructions.
2. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredges channels so that deep draft vessels can transit into
and out of ports. Mariners must know the position and depth of these channels.
3. Nautical charts delineate the location of anchorages for military, commercial, and recreational
vessels.
4. NOAA shows official geographic names in conformance with the U.S. Board of Geographic
Names.
5. Fixed aids to navigation , such as lighthouses maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard, help
mariners navigate safely.
6. Mariners need to know bottom characteristics in order to determine where adequate holding
grounds for anchoring are located.
7. Depths determined by NOAA surveys are critical to safety of navigation.
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8. Mariners must know where underwater hazards and obstructions are located. The chart shows
the precise position and depth of water over the obstruction.
9. Most commercial ships entering a harbor need to know where pilotage areas are located. These
areas are used for taking on and leaving off marine pilots.
10. Mariners need to know the position and depths of dangerous wrecks , so they can lay out a
track to avoid these features.
11. Wire drag cleared depths show the safe navigation depth. This charting symbol indicates that
there was at least 20 feet of depth available over the top of the obstruction located here.
2.7 BOTTOM FEATURES ON NAUTICAL CHART
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3.0 ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY AND INFORMATION SYSTEM AND ELECTRONIC

NAVIGATIONAL CHART
3.1 DEFINITIONS OF ECDIS

“An Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) is a computer-based navigation information
system that complies with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations and can be used as an
[1]
alternative to paper nautical charts.”
“ Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) means a navigation information system which
with adequate back-up arrangements can be accepted as complying with the up-to-date chart required by
regulation V/20 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, by displaying selected information from a system
electronic navigational chart (SENC) with positional information from navigation sensors to assist the
mariner in route planning and route monitoring, and if required display additional navigation-related
[2]
information.”
1. Electronic Chart Display and Information System at Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ECDIS

2. ECDIS Definitions in PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY AND INFORMATION
SYSTEMS (ECDIS) [IMO Resolutions A.817 (19), MSC.64 (67) and MSC.86 (70)] (amended March 1999)
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3.2 ECDIS IN STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS
[3]
3.2.1 SOLAS 1974
Paragraph 2.1.4 of Regulation V/19 states that:
“All ships, irrespective of size, shall have:
Nautical charts and nautical publications……… to plan and display the positions throughout the
voyage; ………. An ECDIS may be accepted as meeting the chart carriage requirements of this
subparagraph…”
Convention ships may be fitted with an ECDIS system with a back-up system (either an electronic
back-up system or with appropriate paper charts for the intended voyage).
[4]
3.2.2 STCW 95
An officer who is in charge of a navigational watch on board a ship of 500 gross register
tonnage (GRT) or more should attained the minimum standard of competence specified in
Table AII/1 of STCW Code. The competence includes “Plan and conduct a passage and
determine position” of the vessel, in which he should have thorough knowledge of and ability
to use navigational charts and publications, notice to mariners (NTM), radio navigational
warnings and ships’ routing information. Note: ECDIS systems are considered to be included
under the term “charts”.
3.2.3 INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS

There are a number of International Standards which ECDIS shall meet:
[5]
• International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) transfer Standard for Digital Hydrographic
[6]
Data S- 57 ,
[7]
• IHO Specifications for Chart Content and Display aspects of ECDIS S- 52 ,
[8]
• IMO Resolution A.817 (19) Performance Standards for ECDIS
3.2.4 IMO RESOLUTION A.817 (19) – PERFORMANCE STANDARD FOR ECDIS

Some of the requirements stated in the Performance Standards for ECDIS are as following: -
1. ECDIS should have adequate back-up arrangements (Duplication of the system or carriage
of appropriate paper charts for the intended voyage);
2. ECDIS should be capable of displaying all chart information necessary for safe and efficient
navigation;
3. ECDIS should facilitate simple and reliable updating of the electronic navigational chart;
4. ECDIS should reduce the navigational workload compared to using the paper chart;
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5. ECDIS should have at least the same reliability and availability of presentation as the paper
chart;
6. ECDIS should provide appropriate alarms or indications with respect to the information
displayed or malfunction of the equipment.
The ECDIS enables the user to call up information on the items displayed in addition to the
graphics presentation. For example, a lighthouse is marked on the chart by a tower symbol or a
traditional chart symbol if the user prefers. The system can give further information on this subject
about the characteristic and detail of the lighthouse similar to the information printed in the List of
Lights.
[9]
3.2.5 RESOLUTION MSC. 232(82)
The Annex 24 of the resolution - The Revised Performance Standards For Electronic Chart
Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) which the Raster Chart Display System (RCDS or
[10] [11]
ECD) using Raster Navigational Charts (RNC) is incorporated in the Standards to meet the
real situation.
3. SOLAS 1974 - is a safety treaty amended during the Convention of 1974 by The International Convention for Safety
of Life at Sea (SOLAS) which is an international maritime safety treaty.
4. STCW 95 - is The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers
as amended a sets of qualification standards for masters, officers and watch personnel on seagoing merchant ships
in the Convention of International Maritime Organization (IMO), London 1995.
5. IHO – is an authoritative worldwide hydrographic body engages all national hydrographic offices around the world
and sets an uniformly hydrographic standards in the surveys, nautical charts, and publications which to be agreed
upon by the member nations.
6. S-57 – is the IHO Transfer Standard for Hydrographic Data, edition 3 Nov 1996. It describes the data structure and
format to be used for the exchange of ENC (Electronic Navigational Chart) data between Hydrographic Offices,
ECDIS manufacturers, mariners and other users.
7. S-52 – is the Specification for Chart Content and Display Aspects of ECDIS, edition 5 Dec 1996. It provides
specifications and guidance regarding the issue, updating and display of ENC in ECDIS.
8. IMO RESOLUTION A.817 (19) – is the IMO Performance Standards for ECDIS. It describes the minimum
performance standards for ECDIS with reference to both hardware and software, ENC and updates, user interface
and the integration of external devices.
9. RESOLUTION MSC. 232(82) – is the IMO Maritime Safety Committee Resolution which is adoption of the revised
performance standards for electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS)
10. Raster Chart Display Systems (RCDS) – is a system that reproduce exactly the familiar paper chart. RCDS adds real
time positioning, electronic tools for voyage planning and monitoring, improved night time visibility, access to chart
notes, etc. In addition, RCDS provides for the automatic application of official updates issued by national
hydrographic offices.
11. Raster Navigational Charts (RNC) – is geo referenced navigational charts which can display vessel’s position on the
chart image if it has computer based navigation system that is connected to GPS. Its updated weekly according to
the IHO standard S-61
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3.3 ECDIS & ENC
3.3.1 DEFINITIONS OF ENC

“An electronic navigational chart (ENC) is
an official database created by a national
hydrographic office for use with an
Electronic Chart Display and Information
System (ECDIS). An electronic chart
must conform to standards stated in the
International Hydrographic Organization
Diagram : Example of ENC (Fugawi Marine ENC)
(IHO) Special Publication S-57 before it can
be certified as an ENC. Only ENCs can be used in ECDIS to meet the International Maritime
Organization (IMO) performance standard for ECDIS.” [12]
“Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) means the database, standardized as to content, structure
and format, issued for use with ECDIS on the authority of government authorized hydrographic
offices. The ENC contains all the chart information necessary for safe navigation and may contain
supplementary information in addition to that contained in the paper chart (e.g. sailing directions)
[13]
which may be considered necessary for safe navigation.”
Diagram : Example of ENC

(Fugawi Marine ENC)
12. Electronic Navigational Charts at Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_navigational_chart

13. ENC Definitions in PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY AND INFORMATION
SYSTEMS (ECDIS) [IMO Resolutions A.817 (19), MSC.64 (67) and MSC.86 (70)] (amended March 1999)
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3.3.2 SYSYEM ELECTRONIC NAVIGATIONAL CHART (SENC)

The SENC is the database that is actually accessed by the ECDIS for display generation and
other navigational functions. The database is resulting from the transformation of the ENC by the
ECDIS for appropriate use. Update to the ENC by appropriate means, and other data added by
the mariners. The SENC contains the equivalent to an up-to-date paper chart. The SENC may
also contain information from other sources.
Data Software Display
ENC ENC SENC
+
Updates
#1
#1 SENC1
+
#2
#2 Diagram 1 : System Electronic
SENC2 Navigational Chart
+
IHO S-57 Performed in ECDIS IHO S-52 Colours & Symbols
3.3.3 RELATION BETWEEN ENC AND SENC

IMO Resolution MSC 232 provides the following definitions:
ENC: means the database, standardised as to content, structure and format, for charting and
updates issued for use with ECDIS by or on the authority of a Government, authorised
Hydrographic Office or other relevant government institution, and which conforms to an IHO
standard known as S-57/3. The ENC contains all the chart information necessary for safe
navigation. On the ship, S-57/3 data is loaded into the ECDIS in a dedicated storage area, called
the ENC database.
SENC: Since the S-57/3 format is not suitable for data processing, the ECDIS has to convert the
ENC into a different format referred to as SENC. The resulting data is then loaded into a separate
SENC database from where it is accessed by the chart display and navigational functions of
ECDIS and this database may also contain information added by the mariner or from other
sources. The ECDIS manufacturer may choose whatever format and database structure for the
SENC, provided that the ENC data is not downgraded in accuracy and/or contents during the
conversion process.
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3.3.4 CHARACTERISTIC OF ENC IN ECDIS

1. The ENC data is the only data of IHO S-57 standards transformed into the ECDIS for
display and use.
2. The standardized colour and symbol is required in accordance with IHO S-52 standards.
[10]
3. The updating of the ENC is made official through Notice To Mariner (NTM) is easy and
can be done automatically onboard ship reducing the time consuming workload manual
correction of paper charts.
4. The scale in display the ENC can be changed by the user freely by means of the display
scale.
5. Additional navigational – related information depends on the layer of display can be
manipulated by the user. These are: Base, Standard and All.
6. The ECDIS is a sophisticated navigational system that provides alarms or indications with
regard to preset safety paramaters, e.g. safe depth, safe contour etc.
[14]
7. Other navigational sources such as Global Navigational Satellite System (GNSS / GPS) ,
[15]
Automatic Identification System (AIS) , radar and Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA)
[16]
picture, etc. can be overlaid on the ECDIS screen for navigation purpose.
Diagram 2 : How ECDIS works
14. GNSS / GPS - Global Navigation Satellite Systems is satellite navigation systems that provide autonomous geo-
spatial positioning with global coverage.
15. Automatic Identification System (AIS) – is a short range coastal tracking system used on ships and by Vessel Traffic
Services (VTS) for identifying and locating vessels by electronically exchanging data with other nearby ships and
VTS stations
16. Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) – is a marine radar with capability that can create tracks using radar contacts.
The system can calculate the tracked object's course, speed and closest point of approach (CPA), thereby knowing if
there is a danger of collision with the other ship or landmass.
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3.4 COMPONENTS OF ECDIS
ECDIS represents an item of equipment consisting of hardware, software and data. Whilst a high
performance PC or workstation installed in a console linked with other items of ship’s equipment, such as:
• Course to steer linked with Gyro
compass
• Rate of turn linked with a turn
indicator
• Speed and distance linked with log
• Ship position is fed from the GNSS /
GPS
• Radar data overlaid from source of
radar.
Diagram 2 : Components OF ECDIS
GNSS/GPS Computer Gyrocomp
AIS ENC Radar/ARPA
Water level Updates

Echo
Current
Diagram 2 : Components OF ECDIS
3.5 OTHER TYPE OF ELECTRONIC CHARTS AND THE DIFFERENCES WITH ENC
Not all electronic charts are in same format; many different formats exist for electronic charts.
However, two major types are now in use on merchant ships, they are vector chart and raster
charts.
Raster charts (RNC), in fact, are scanned paper charts into the pictures with adjustment made
suitable for display on the Raster Chart Display System (RCDS). This RNC is also known as
Admiralty Raster Chart System (ARCS Charts) which produced by the British Admiralty.
Vector charts are digitized charts. Countries are producing unique digital charts based on their
interpretation of IHO standards (i.e. S-57 standards)
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Raster Chart (RNC) Vector Chart (ENC)

Chart data is a digitized “picture” of a chart. All Chart data is organised into many separate files.
data in one layer and one format. It contains layer information to produce certain
symbols, lines, area, colours, and other
elements.
With raster data, it is difficult to change individual With vector data, it can change individual
element of the chart since they are not elements with additional data.
separated in the data file.
The differences between RNC/ARCS for RCDS/ECS and ENC for ECDIS
RNC (RCDS or ECS) ENC (ECDIS)
• Chart based system similar to paper charts. • No chart boundaries.
• Will not trigger automatic alarms. Some alarm • Will trigger automatic alarms.
can be generated from user-inserted information.
• Chart projection may differ between RNCs.
• Chart horizontal datum relates to the datum of
the position fixing system, may appear as a shift
in position.
• Feature cannot be simplified or removed to suit a
particular navigational circumstance. This affects
the superimposed of radar/ARPA picture.
• Cannot select different scale charts.
• May affect the readability of chart text and
symbols.
• Not possible to gain additional information.
• Not possible to display a ship’s safety contour or
safety depth.
• Different colours may be used to show similar
chart information.
• Displayed at the scale of the paper chart.
Excessive zooming in or out can seriously
degrade RCDS capability.
• In confined waters, the accuracy of chart data
may be less than that of the position fixing
system in use.
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3.6 ALARMS AND WARNING

ECDIS provide Warnings and Alarms. It combines several different functions into one computerized
system which is possible to provide alarms or display warnings (indication) when certain parameters are
met or exceeded as determine by the navigator.
Types of Warning
1. Deviating from a planned route;
2. Approach to waypoints;
3. Failure of the positioning system;
4. Vessel crossing safety contour and;
5. System malfunction or failure etc.
3.7 WHEN TO USE THE ECDIS OR RCDS

As the ENC is developed and produced by countries, it is not distributed by one stop shops like the
distribution of paper charts, hence ships using ENC and RNC is common nowadays. Therefore ECDIS
can operate in two modes:
• The ECDIS mode when ENC data is used,
• The RCDS mode when ENC data is not available.
NOTE: When RCDS mode is in use, the back-up system is the portfolio of appropriate paper charts for
the intended voyage.
3.8 ADVANTAGES OF ECDIS OVER A PAPER CHART

ECDIS is not only an adequate replacement for the paper navigational chart but also a system containing
all information important for navigation. It reduces the time-consuming manual correction of paper charts.
The ECDIS display can be superimposed with radar images and with the radar targets of ARPA; and the
vessel’s positions is continuously shown on the chart display and stored at regular intervals. Hence
manual chart exchange is no longer required.
The elements of route planning in ECDIS are waypoints and leglines to ensuring safe track keeping. The
cross distance along the leglines can be set for activation of the alarm if the vessel deviates from the
scope of leglines. ECDIS "knows" whether a vessel can pass safely through an area, on the basis of the
vessel's information fed in.
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3.9 THE RISK AND LIMITATION ECDIS

It should be noted that the ECDIS is only a tool that helps a mariner safely and effectively navigate a
ship. One of the biggest risks with the transition to ECDIS is an over reliance in the information provided.
Some limitations of the ECDIS as followings:
1. Chart Accuracy
ECDIS provides the navigator with a tactical tool which incorporates a high accuracy positioning
device. The navigator can "zoom" in on an ECDIS chart to a scale beyond the intended accuracy
of the charted information.
2. Technical limitation of other devices

The accuracy is also depends on the technical limitation of other devices linked to the ECDIS,
such as GPS, radar, etc. The mariner must be attentive to the source and accuracy of the
position fixing device utilized by the ECDIS.
3. Information Overload
The mariner is cautioned to be wary of information overload and a very cluttered display screen.
Information overload and a cluttered screen seriously degrade navigation safety for the mariner
and could result in a "technology-assisted incident".
4. Familiarization of ECDIS
A mariner must invest time and effort to mastering the device prior to his first navigational watch.
This will be crucial to the navigation safety of the vessel in the event paper charts are not required
or available on the vessel.
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3.10 ECDIS & GOOD SEAMANSHIP
Navigation with ECDIS does not differ significantly from navigation with paper sea charts. ECDIS does
not exempt mariners from conducting proper route planning. The most important points to be taken into
consideration is:
The voyage planning should consist of:

• Consultation of nautical publications;
• Checking meteorological data;
• Consultation of meteorological route advice (If applicable);
• Consideration of routing measures;
• Consideration of ship reporting systems and vessel traffic services;
• Consideration of which pilotage services are available;
• Consultation of port information;
• Collection of information on shore based rescue facilities and
• The interaction between ship's type, cargo and potential route.
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For creating a route, the mariner should consider:

• As a first step, the start and end point of a route;
• Selection of convenient course alteration points;
• The required width of the track;
• The cross track error (XTE) that can be permitted at different stages;
• The maximum allowed difference off track from the planned route;
• The assignment of route parts to great circle or rhumb line track;
• The maximum allowed distance off track and
• The radius of turn and for course alterations.
The following further points should be considered:

• Safety speed;
• Speed reductions to enable difficult passages by day, to catch tide windows and to make use of
tidal streams;
• Underkeel clearance;
• Engine maintenance on high sea (we are thinking of cleaning the funnel exhaust uptakes);
• Turning circle and manoeuvre details;
• Routine position fixing with the use of all available position fixing systems;
• Environmental protection and
• Security precautions against incidents (human life, ship, cargo).
Once at sea, mariners should consider at least following points:

• Routine checks of the navigational equipment;
• ETA at each course alteration point and at each other point significant for the entire voyage;
• Meteorological conditions and the traffic situation.
• Fuel usage and bunkering;
• Fresh and drinking water planning if needed;
• Harbours of refuge;
• Alternate ports for contingency;
• Sunrise, Sunset, nautical Twilight;
• Expected time of landfalls;
• Action on failure to make a landfall;
• Clock time checks;
• Zone times ashore and
• When to change ships time.
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_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
4.0 CONCLUSION
The rapid development of technology from the last decades has also contributed in the hydrographic and
maritime environment. From the technology using paper now it goes into gadgets and paperless
technology. In line with the establishment of IHO and IMO which were to support the safety of navigation
and protection of the marine environment then it produced the Electronic Chart Display and Information
System.
ECDIS is never been replaced the old paper charts but it is more like in advance of assisting into a better
and safer navigation. Thus it still maintained the basic features such like depth and pilotage information
with more additional attributes which the paper is limited.
ECDIS consists of components which integrate with navigation information from Radar, ARPA Image
instead of the ENC. It also get additional information from AIS, Autopilot, Echo Sounder and other
instrument that helps in voyage and routing. Beside it also integrate with GPS for positioning of the vessel
which is can be shown in ENC.
And today we can find many navigation and mapping companies have produced this so-called ENC and
ECDIS software. For an example, Fugawi based in Canada (www.fugawi.com) which produced and
supplied desktop, mobile even a web – based navigation and mapping softwares. They have produced a
software; Fugawi Marine ENC which can applies navigation into a smaller device such as iPAD and
iPhone. Besides it can produce 3D model of navigation chart with AIS support, weather overlay, planning
and transfer routes, waypoint between handheld and PC. This development is very helpful in advance of
better navigation in the future.
It also a recommendation in the future that the mandatory to use this ECDIS in every vessel. Since lately
there were a lot of incidents of collisions between vessel happened all around the world. And these
collision not only bad for the logistic and vessel but also towards the marine environment such as oil spills
and other chemicals pollution.
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5.0 REFERENCES
1. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY AND INFORMATION

SYSTEMS (ECDIS) [IMO Resolutions A.817 (19), MSC.64 (67) and MSC.86 (70)] (amended
March 1999)
2. ANNEX 24, RESOLUTION MSC.232(82) (adopted on 5 December 2006) ADOPTION OF THE
REVISED PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY AND
INFORMATION SYSTEMS (ECDIS)
3. Facts about electronic charts and carriage requirements Prepared by Primar Stavanger & IC-ENC
Joint Information Working Group (JIWG)
4. Differences Between Maps & Charts, The United States of Office of Coast Survey NOAA
http://www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/mcd/learn_diff_map_chart.html
5. ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System): Part1: How ECDIS works, The Pilot
Online Edition http://www.pilotmag.co.uk/2010/03/09/ecdis-electronic-chart-display-and-
information-system-part1-how-ecdis-works
6. FUGAWI Marine ENC GPS Navigation Software
http://www.fugawi.com/web/products/fugawi_marine_enc-in.htm
7. ENCs, ECDIS and Bathymetry IHO http://www.iho-ohi.net/english/encs-ecdis-and-bathymetry/
8. Legal, IMO http://www.imo.org/Legal/mainframe.asp?topic_id=60
9. Fundamentals of Mapping http://www.icsm.gov.au/mapping/maps_charts.html#jargon
10. ECDIS Basic http://www.fuerstenberg-dhg.de/index.php?id=ecdis_startseite&L=1
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Page 30 of 30

SUG514 - Hydrographic Surveying - Topo Map Vs Navigation Chart, ENC & ECDIS

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SUG514 - Hydrographic Surveying - Topo Map Vs Navigation Chart, ENC & ECDIS

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MARA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY Jack Ruzaini

BACHELOR OF GEOMATIC AND SURVEYING SCIENCE (AP220) (jacketphisher@yahoo.com)

2.0 TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS VERSUS NAUTICAL OR NAVIGATIONAL CHARTS

Topographic Maps Navigational Charts

1. “Differences Between Maps and Charts”, http://www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/mcd/learn_diff_map_chart.html

2.1 DIFFERENCES OF LEGEND BETWEEN NAUTICAL CHART AND TOPOGRAPHIC MAP

NAVIGATION CHART LEGEND TOPOGRAPHIC MAP LEGEND

2.2 DIFFERENCES OF SYMBOL BETWEEN NAUTICAL CHART AND TOPOGRAPHIC MAP

NAUTICAL CHART TOPOGRAPHIC MAP

2.4 BASIC ELEMENTS OF NAUTICAL CHART

1. Chart number in national chart series

2.5 DETAILS ON NAUTICAL CHART

2.5.1 PILOTAGE INFORMATION

Older charts, as well

2.4.3 TIDAL INFORMATION

If the low water line differs

2.5 TYPES OF SCALES AND PROJECTION

1. A simple ratio or fraction, known as the representative fraction. For example,

2.6 SOURCES INFORMATION ON NAUTICAL CHART (Based on an example of NOAA Chart)

2.7 BOTTOM FEATURES ON NAUTICAL CHART

3.0 ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY AND INFORMATION SYSTEM AND ELECTRONIC

3.1 DEFINITIONS OF ECDIS

1. Electronic Chart Display and Information System at Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ECDIS

3.2 ECDIS IN STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS

3.2.3 INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS

3.2.4 IMO RESOLUTION A.817 (19) – PERFORMANCE STANDARD FOR ECDIS

3.3 ECDIS & ENC

3.3.1 DEFINITIONS OF ENC

Diagram : Example of ENC

12. Electronic Navigational Charts at Wikipedia http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_navigational_chart

3.3.2 SYSYEM ELECTRONIC NAVIGATIONAL CHART (SENC)

Data Software Display

ENC ENC SENC

3.3.3 RELATION BETWEEN ENC AND SENC

3.3.4 CHARACTERISTIC OF ENC IN ECDIS

Diagram 2 : How ECDIS works

3.4 COMPONENTS OF ECDIS

Diagram 2 : Components OF ECDIS

GNSS/GPS Computer Gyrocomp

AIS ENC Radar/ARPA

Water level Updates

Raster Chart (RNC) Vector Chart (ENC)

3.6 ALARMS AND WARNING

3.7 WHEN TO USE THE ECDIS OR RCDS

3.8 ADVANTAGES OF ECDIS OVER A PAPER CHART

3.9 THE RISK AND LIMITATION ECDIS

2. Technical limitation of other devices

3.10 ECDIS & GOOD SEAMANSHIP

The voyage planning should consist of:

For creating a route, the mariner should consider:

The following further points should be considered:

Once at sea, mariners should consider at least following points:

1. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ELECTRONIC CHART DISPLAY AND INFORMATION

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