Clever new software update keeps Raymarine MFDs a step ahead

Raymarine’s new R7 software upgrade provides even more practical features and flexibility for users of existing Raymarine multi-function displays (MFDs).

“This powerful new free-to-download R7 upgrade will enhance any Raymarine MFD running the popular Lighthouse interface,” says CEO Mark Milburn, of Raymarine’s New Zealand distributor, Lusty and Blundell Ltd.

“The R7 upgrade not only gives owners of existing MFDs access to all of Raymarine’s latest advances in software, it also delivers top-of-the-line gS-Series features to owners of existing a-Series, c-Series and e-Series MFDs operating the LightHouse user interface.”

These features include the ability to run an autopilot directly off the MFD screen and the opportunity for a-Series, c-Series and e-Series owners to use Raymarine’s handy new RMK-9 wireless keypad, instantly converting touch-only screens (such as the a-65 and a-67) into HybridTouch displays.

Users of the new R7 software with a connected autopilot will see a practical new Pilotbar at the bottom of their MFD screen and autopilot Standby and Auto soft keys on their home screen. They will also have the ability to changed locked headings from their MFD or from a RMK-9 keypad.

Another key R7 feature enables owners to choose what page appears on the screen when their MFD is turned on. They can now choose the home screen, the last page they used or a particular application such as chartplotter, Chirp sounder or HD bird radar — or any combination of applications they prefer.

The new R7 upgrade also enables users to display their engine, compass and sailing graphics with new dial shapes and configurations and a new fuel management feature calculates the vessel’s remaining fuel solely by observing the fuel flow rate.

The new Raymarine R7 Lighthouse upgrade is now free to download here , while the handy RMK-9 keypad is available from Lusty and Blundell’s nationwide network of leading marine dealers.

Lusty and Blundell Ltd, ph (09) 415-8303.