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What is ECDIS? Complete Guide to Electronic Chart Display Systems

2026-03-31

What is ECDIS?

ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) is a computer-based navigation system that complies with IMO regulations and can be used as an alternative to paper nautical charts. It displays the ship's position in real-time on electronic navigational charts (ENCs) and integrates data from multiple sensors.

Why is ECDIS Important?

  • Real-time position display on electronic charts
  • Integration with GPS, AIS, radar, and other sensors
  • Route planning with automatic safety checks
  • Grounding prevention alarms
  • Reduced workload for navigators
  • Paperless navigation capability

ECDIS Regulations and Requirements

IMO SOLAS Requirements Under SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 19.2.10, ECDIS is mandatory for: - Passenger ships of 500 GT and above (from July 2014) - Tankers of 3,000 GT and above (from July 2015) - Cargo ships of 10,000 GT and above (from July 2016) - Cargo ships of 3,000-10,000 GT (from July 2018)

ECDIS Type Approval ECDIS must be type-approved according to IMO Performance Standards (MSC.232(82)) and tested according to IEC 61174. Only type-approved ECDIS can be used as a replacement for paper charts.

Chart Updates ECDIS operators must maintain up-to-date Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs). Chart updates should be applied regularly to ensure the latest hydrographic data, notices to mariners, and temporary/preliminary notices are reflected.

Popular ECDIS Systems

Transas/Wartsila Navi-Sailor 4000 One of the most widely installed ECDIS globally. Known for reliability and comprehensive chart coverage.

Furuno FMD-3200/3300 Popular choice for Japanese-built vessels with excellent integration with Furuno navigation equipment.

JRC JAN-7201/9201 Widely used on commercial vessels, offering robust performance and user-friendly interface.

Danelec DM100 ECDIS Compact and reliable, popular for retrofit installations.

ECDIS Maintenance

  • Software updates (OS and application)
  • Chart database updates (weekly recommended)
  • Annual performance testing
  • Backup system verification
  • Sensor input checks (GPS, gyro, speed log)

EKS Marine ECDIS Services

  • New ECDIS installation and commissioning
  • Software and chart updates
  • Annual performance testing
  • Type-specific training
  • Troubleshooting and repair
  • Pre-PSC inspection preparation

Contact us for ECDIS support: info@eksmes.com | +90 216 909 78 53

Need technical support?

Contact our 24/7 expert team.

📧 info@eksmes.com📞 +90 216 909 78 53

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