Like VNS, Admiral does not support the three standard formats for exchanging data: tab–delimited, CSV (comma–separated values), or GPX (GPS Exchange Format). Instead, Jeppesen has chosen a "stand alone" approach using their own format, ironically called Open Navigation Format (ONF). This format allows for the exchange of information between Nobeltec devices, but any other import or export of waypoints requires using a chartplotter as an envoy.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Admiral has an exceptional system for the exchange of data within a Nobeltec system, called Nobeltec's GlassBridge Network. With this feature, your vessel can have multiple PCs running Admiral, with full data sharing between displays.NOBELTECHThe Wireless Nobeltec Display is a private-labeled Panasonic Toughbook WirelessDisplay (Model CF-VDW07M). You can mirror the Admiral display of any wireless-enabled PC within 300 feet.

For example, one PC can receive AIS data and another can receive wind, speed, and depth–and both copies of Admiral will have both sets of data. Charts can be shared over the network, allowing them to be installed on a single computer. However, each computer on the GlassBridge network must have its own copy of the Admiral software–and that's $1,200 a copy. One can use multiple PCs or use a single PC with up to four monitors.

If you are concerned about too many devices sending the same data to your PC, the Port Priorities feature resolves conflict by prioritizing multiple sensors. For example, a GPS and LORAN may both send slightly different position coordinates, which would cause your vessel icon to reposition with each set of instructions from each device. With devices added to Port Priorities, data from the highest–priority device is used first, with the software automatically switching to the next prioritized device if the primary device stops sending data.

Admiral also has a wireless option with its Wireless Nobeltec Display ($2,500). This handheld device works with any wireless–enabled computer and provides portable access to your PC screen. It does not require its own copy of Admiral. Rather, it mirrors the display on your PC wirelessly.

ASSESSMENT

Admiral is clearly designed for a larger and perhaps professionally–captained vessel. The additional features over Nobeltec VNS, such as GlassBridge Network, OCENS WeatherNet and Tender Tracker, are of value primarily to mega–yachts. Only under rare circumstances would a typical 40–foot sailboat, trawler or powerboat require multiple networked computers or the ability to track a $2,000 dinghy.

Jeppesen knows this and understands that the mega–yacht demographic won't be bothered by the additional costs inherent to Admiral software. Modular packages are a bit like purchasing a Harley–Davidson motorcycle: the cycle is just the beginning, then comes the chrome and options. Harnessing the power of Admiral–and it is a robust and full–featured package–begins with the purchase of expensive proprietary cartography, then includes add–on modules, hardware devices and annual subscriptions.

The typical recreational boater, concerned about the value of their purchase, will not be happy with these significant additional costs. Yet without these extra purchases, which are necessary to fully engage its features, Admiral at $1,200 holds little advantage for the money over VNS at $490.