Android File access??

[wscotterwin]

Hi folks,
Is anyone using an Android (Samsung A7) with OpenCPN and downloading Grib files? I can’t seem to access the download file on the Android to open the Grib after downloading on Iridium or other medias.
I’m using the paid version of OpenCPN which seems to work well on this device but there seems to be a wall between the App and the download file.

[Hakan]

Yes, no problem.
Save the file. I have it on ..Downdload/Grib/...
Open OCPN->Grib. Click Tools(Geerwheel) Select GRIB-file and navigate to the grib folder.

[PippaB]

This does depend a bit on the Android version and how the file was downloaded. As Android progresses, file access between apps has become more and more restricted, and it is up to you to manage those restrictions if you want to share files between apps.

What version of Android? What app for the download and where does it put the file?

[Hakan]

Correct. For Android 10/11 the possible place to use is restricted to OpenCPN's "own" folder. E.g. where the default chart directory is. Try to first download a grib file using the built in function and use the same folder for your own files.

[wscotterwin]

It appears my version of Android is 12. I tried downloading the grip using the OpenCPN tool over the web and that works. When I download a file off any other site including Iridium, it puts it in the download file.
I go to move the downloaded file and I can not get access to any files that the app has access too.
Super frustrating.

[Hakan]

You're not alone.
Try e.g. Google search; "android 12 file access"

[Dwinson]

This article will help you get access to where opencpn stores its data:
https://www.reddit.com/r/Android/com...ata_folder_on/

In a nutshell Android 11 and later have made this nearly impossible. To me it makes the Android unusable which is frustrating and unfortunate.

[Hakan]

"Download" use to be able to access.

On my A11 I can from plugin grib using "Select Grib File" reach "Download" where I have a folder named Grib. Works fine.

/storage/emulated/0/Download/grib/

[rgleason]

Android support is normally handled on the dedicated forum

https://bigdumboat.com/aocpn/forum/

[HeviiSail]

The registration process for the Android Support Forum is a bit buggy.


When I tried to register, I wasn't able to enter the answer to the last question. It was only after hitting "submit" (in spite of not answering) that I could finally enter it by clicking on the red dialogue.

[HeviiSail]

The Android Forum isn't working at all. Notwithstanding the registration page bugs, I've still not received a confirmation email.


I can understand that having a separate Forum for OpenCPN's Android users might provide a certain indication of how many people are using the paid version versus the unsupported (and outdated) free app. However, a second formum is inefficient overkill, confusing and inconvenient. Furthermore, with most OpenCPN users at this forum, the exposure to one's questions would be much better than at an obscure site which not too many know about, let alone even works.



Since it's not functional, perhaps consideration should be given to killing it altogether.

[sv_pelagia]

The Android Forum works. However, I just perused it, and it seems that questions on it are not getting answered quickly (some take 1-3 weeks).

I see no reason why relevant questions regarding Android OpenCPN should not be considered (and answered) here on CF.

(Yes, registration on the Android Forum has proven difficult. Contact Dave Register directly; he usually solves this.)

[HeviiSail]

Originally Posted by sv_pelagia

... seems that questions on it are not getting answered quickly...)

The intended Android-focused OpenCPN forum appears to be hosted on Dave's private site. It's totally understandable that queries and concerns gather dust and grow mould for a week or so; the Man must have time for himself to enjoy his boat, darn it!



Anyway, it's yet another reason for Android support to be focused here. If Dave is indeed out and sailing about, at least there are others here who might be able to assist.


* Fret not Dave, we'll admonish (educate) anybody coming here to seek assistance for that irritating "other" OpenCPN app

[sv_pelagia]

Originally Posted by HeviiSail

Anyway, it's yet another reason for Android support to be focused here. If Dave is indeed out and sailing about, at least there are others here who might be able to assist.

[emoji106] exactly

[bdbcat]

HeviiSail...
Your account at Android Forum is now approved.
Welcome aboard.


Dave