Lowrances new wireless diagnostic tool offers on water service and support

Lowrance recently announced the release of the Lowrance Network Analyzer and Service Assistant with integrated wireless diagnostics tools.

Available in a free software release, the new tools are designed to ensure optimal marine-electronics performance for Lowrance multifunction displays.

Available on HDS Gen3, HDS Gen2 Touch, Elite-5 and Elite-7 Ti multifunction displays with GoFree™ connectivity, the tools allow anglers to easily send system information to the service team at Lowrance to improve troubleshooting and customer service. No matter how far a boat is from land, as long as the system can connect to a wireless network, this new update gives immediate access to the latest features and the best support and service.

The Network Analyzer simplifies system-wide software updates of multi-display setups by proactively notifying users ─ similar to a smartphone or tablet ─ when new software is available for displays, expansion modules and other networked devices. The Service Assistant is used to transmit a detailed report of Ethernet and NMEA 2000® networked devices ─ including software version and serial numbers of networked devices ─ so technical support can help troubleshoot issues more quickly. The service report not only includes the installed electronics and system configuration, but can also include screenshots captured on the display to further illustrate the issue at hand.

“We lead the industry in wireless capabilities,” said Leif Ottosson, CEO, Navico. “Driven by our strong commitment to quality and ease-of-use, this powerful wireless functionality will help our customers keep their systems optimized. We regularly release free software updates to enhance the capabilities of Lowrance multifunction displays, expansion modules and accessories. The Network Analyzer and Service Assistant, along with our GoFree™ wireless capabilities, not only make it easy to keep your entire system current by notifying you when new software is released, but also help us provide better service to our customers if technical issues occur.”

GoFree connectivity is cloud-enabled technology giving users the capability to receive automatic software update notifications and be able to download and install these updates directly to their display – guaranteeing the most up-to-date operating system with all of the latest features.

The new Network Analyzer and Service Assistant service tools are available in the latest Lowrance software release (version 54.1.85) via a one-time manual download and update to compatible equipment, with no charge to the customer. To download, go to http://www.lowrance.com/en-US/Software-Updates/ and select the product group that applies to the appropriate display. For more information on the Lowrance Network Analyzer and Service Assistant or the entire Lowrance line of marine electronics or to locate an authorized Lowrance dealer, please visit www.lowrance.com

Changes to the Marine Safety Regulation are now in effect to make using the state’s waterways simpler and safer.

“The amendments aim to increase safety on the water with changes introduced to ensure vessels passing swimmers and divers keep safe distances, reduced speed limits for vessels carrying and towing children, and compulsory life jacket changes for some watercraft,” said Neil Patchett from Transport for NSW’s Maritime team.

“Decisive new powers have also been granted to maritime authorities to immediately suspend a boat or personal watercraft driving licence for serious safety offences, including medium to high range drink driving, and reckless, dangerous and negligent navigation.

“These powers will be used to ensure the safety of everyone who sets out to enjoy our waterways.”

Life jackets are compulsory for people on board canoes, kiteboards, kayaks, sailboards or watercraft under 4.8 metres long when travelling alone, at night or when in open or alpine waterways.

Changes will also require vessels to maintain a clearance zone of 60 metres from people in the water, while a speed limit of 60 knots has been introduced for vessels towing a person under 18 years old.

Mr Patchett also said changes to boat licencing and registration will make owning a boat easier.

"Anyone applying for a boat driving licence will now only be required to demonstrate practical boating experience and pass a knowledge test, removing the need to complete a theory based boating safety course,” said Mr Patchett.

“We’re also cutting registration red tape by eliminating the need for boats to display a registration label or trade plate.

“We worked closely with maritime industry stakeholders and the general community in developing these changes to support a culture of safe and responsible boating.

“Through these changes the NSW Government is making sure that people continue to enjoy our marvellous waterways, while at the same time reducing the time and costs involved with administration.”

The Marine Safety Regulation 2016 can be viewed online at www.legislation.nsw.gov.au