ECDIS Development Laboratory and Navigation Technology Demonstration Center

In September 2001, an ECDIS Development Laboratory and Navigation Technology Demonstration Center will be established. This facility will conduct quality assurance (QA) and test and evaluation (T&E) of electronic chart products from NAVOCEANO and other hydrographic/oceanographic data providers. This facility will also assist Navy ship personnel in gaining a greater understanding of electronic charting, as wen as increased technical proficiency in properly using these systems to safely navigate-particularly in the shallow littoral areas of the world. The ECDIS Development Laboratory is envisioned to become an information clearinghouse and demonstration center on electronic charting technological development. In addition to explaining the range of currently available government data products and services. The Navigation Technology Demonstration Center will showcase the use of electronic charts and its capability when used to avoid groundings and collisions at sea. The Center will have commercial-off-the-shelf ECDIS and other electronic chart-based systems. Another important aspect will be to explain the capability and limitations of using very precise electronic navigation positioning systems (e.g., GPS and Differential GPS) with electronic charting systems. The Navigation Technology Center will also demonstrate the use of tactical digital overlays to provide naval vessels with critical military information that contributes to both safe navigation and increased warfighting mission capability.