Joint University of Southern Mississippi - U.S. Naval Oceanographic Office ECDIS laboratory

In September 2001, the University of Southern Mississippi in conjunction with the United States Navy established an Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS) Laboratory to conduct research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) on the capabilities and limitations of electronic charting systems, data, display, and updating services required for U.S. Navy and allied operations. To help attain the Navy's goal of Fleet-wide implementation of an ECDIS-N capability by 2004, the ECDIS Lab is used to conduct quality control and testing of electronic chart products produced by NAVOCEANO and other government agencies. Additionally, the lab is helping the Navy to gain a greater appreciation for and understanding of the use of electronic charts when operating in the shallow littoral areas of the world. The ECDIS Lab also serves as an information clearinghouse and demonstration center on available electronic chart data, systems, services, and technological advances. This paper discusses the capabilities and accomplishments of the ECDIS Lab, the different electronic charting applications, electronic charting production and management software tools, and key accomplishments. More importantly, this paper will discuss the technical assistance the lab has provided to the Naval Oceanographic Office in their development of tactical overlays, and discuss its supporting role for other agencies such as the U.S. Navy Special Boat Unit 22 and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.