The Windsense wind measurement system from Digital Yacht costs around 470 euros. Compared to the promised range of functions, this is a favourable price. The system consists of a masthead transducer and a black box, which are connected by cable and communicate using the NMEA-0183 standard. The connection to the smartphone or tablet is made via Wi-Fi and also uses standard network protocols. The wind data can therefore also be displayed in many apps that do not originate from Digital Yacht. WindSense can also be used with navigation programmes on PC and Mac. The box can establish up to seven wireless connections so that, for example, the PC in the navigation corner and the tablet or smartphone in the cockpit can be supplied with data at the same time.
Additional transducers can be connected to the black box via a second NMEA-0183 interface; it then works as a multiplexer and also sends their data to the smartphone via Wi-Fi. This makes Windsense an interesting option for upgrading older boats that are already equipped with individual instruments. Together with a log and the appropriate apps, the true wind direction and true wind speed as well as VMG can then be calculated, for example. It is also possible to connect conventional, wired NMEA-0183 displays. An extension to the NMEA-2000 standard will follow soon.
The wind sensor itself comes from the English supplier Autonnic and is equipped with smooth-running slide bearings, making it durable and maintenance-free.
Further information in English at www.digitalyacht.net or via Buhk Bremen.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
