[cjenkins]

I'm pretty much locked into the Raymarine hardware (except for the AIS), so I have ordered the "PC/Seatalk interface". The product description states that the interface converts Seatalk data into NMEA 0183. That seems like it should work, but the description goes on to state that this will allow 'PCs running Ray Tech software to communicate with the Raymarine hardware.' Is there really an incompatibility problem, or is this just a plug for people to buy Raymarine software. In other words, should the conversion to NMEA 0183 be sufficient to allow me to connect to my Mac and use MacENC? (I'm guessing that they keep referring to "PCs" as a generic term for computers, not as a warning that you cannot connect to a Mac.)

I would like to run the output from the interface box and the output from the AIS into a multiplexer, then have one USB connection to the Mac. I haven't received the AIS unit yet, so I don't know if it has a USB or serial plug.

I'm asking all these questions in the blind because we are shipping this equipment to France for installation on the boat in September. I'm sure I will run into bugs then, but I'm trying to eliminate some now.

Does it sound like I'm running down the right path, or have I overlooked/misunderstood anything?

Thanks,

Charlie