B&G "PC Interface"

[Tormato]

Hi,
my 2019 Beneteau Oceanis came with a B&G package that included a "PC Interface". I see a USB type B socket on my dashboard to connect a computer.

But none of the manuals says a word about what this is for and how to use it.

Anyone here has a clue?

Thanks and best regards, Jörg

[fogmachine]

As a general rule, USB is used to connect the NMEA bus to computers running nav software like OpenCPN, Expedition, and SEAiq. It might also be output from an AIS system.

Are you sure it's USB-B (on the right, square) and not USB-A (on the left - flat, the common old style)? USB-B is often used to plug into older monitors for extending hubs.





What MFD do you have? The newer B&G MFDs (Zeus & Vulcan) have WiFi which has often replaced the use of USB.

[Tormato]

Thank you you for the reply!
So there’s software out there to use it. This is good to know!

Yes, it is this square-formed B-type in the dashboard. This makes sense since the ship is the device you connect to your PC, like a printer back in the Stone Age.

Cheers, Jörg

[fogmachine]

You'll have to chase the cable to see what it's hooked up to. A treasure hunt!

[kupo2kupo]

Our 2013 Beneteau Oceanis 41 came with such a USB Type B interface. It was connected to an NMEA-2000 - USB interface. You would need software to use it for NMEA-2000 troubleshooting. I have never used it. There are other ways to troubleshoot, depending on what B&G hardware you have.
Another option could be a connection to the AIS USB port. They all have it for firmware updates and settings.