How to Connect FLIR to your Chartplotter

Effortless Camera Integration and Control 

FLIR Marine camera systems enhance situational awareness and night vision across all types of vessels—from small recreational boats to large yachts and commercial ships. To maximize effectiveness, you must connect your FLIR camera to a compatible chartplotter or monitor. Fortunately, FLIR Marine cameras integrate seamlessly with leading electronic chartplotters (multifunction displays) from manufacturers such as Furuno, Garmin, Raymarine, and Simrad. 

FLIR Marine cameras do more than just display thermal imaging—they offer precise pan, tilt, and zoom functionality, along with specialized settings for optimal visibility. Each electronics chartplotter brand develops its own unique control interface based on FLIR’s specifications. To make the most of your system, consult your Owner’s Manual for detailed guidance on operation and integration.

Connecting Your Camera to a Display 

Most FLIR Marine camera installations require just two cables: 

1. Power Cable: Provides 12V or 24V DC to the camera. 
2. High-Speed Ethernet Cable: Transmits digital video, command signals, and control data to your onboard network, linking the chartplotter and other accessories.

Video-over-Ethernet for Seamless Viewing 

Modern chartplotters support Video-over-Ethernet, which offers high-quality digital streaming directly from the FLIR camera. This allows effortless video sharing across multiple displays, ensuring every screen onboard has easy access to the feed. FLIR’s M200, M300, M400, and M500 series cameras all support standard Video-over-Ethernet connectivity. 

Analog Video for Older Systems 

For older chartplotters lacking Ethernet video support, FLIR’s M300, M400, and M500 series cameras offer analog video output. Note: FLIR’s M200 cameras do not support analog video output. Analog video requires direct input-to-output connections, and additional hardware may be needed to distribute the feed across multiple screens.

Intuitive Camera Controls at Your Fingertips 

Modern chartplotters feature touchscreen controls, often complemented by rotary knobs, directional pads, and button interfaces. Integrated FLIR cameras allow you to: 

• Move and zoom the camera effortlessly 
• Adjust color palettes for optimal contrast 
• Enable image stabilization for clear viewing 
• Switch between thermal and visible-light modes on dual-payload models 

For enhanced precision, FLIR’s JCU-4 joystick offers dedicated camera control. This Ethernet-based joystick seamlessly integrates into any marine system for responsive, full-time navigation.

Advanced Viewing and Tracking Features 

One of the most powerful advantages of FLIR integration is side-by-side video and navigation data. Displaying your FLIR feed next to your chartplotter or radar allows easy identification of navigation markers, radar targets, and objects of interest. 

Slew-to-Cue Tracking 

FLIR’s Slew-to-Cue function enables automatic camera tracking based on radar or chartplotter input: 

• Long-press on a radar contact to send its location to the FLIR camera. 
• The camera automatically locks onto the target, adjusting pan, tilt, and zoom accordingly. 
• Supports tracking of navigation aids, AIS targets, and land positions for enhanced situational awareness. 

Man Overboard (MOB) Assistance 

FLIR Marine cameras integrate with Man Overboard (MOB) alarm systems. If an MOB alarm is triggered, the system: 

1. Receives the bearing and range to the alarm position from the chartplotter. 
2. Automatically adjusts the camera tilt to focus on the water’s surface. 
3. Continuously updates tracking to keep the scene in view as the vessel maneuvers toward recovery. 

This automation reduces workload for the helmsman, improving response efficiency during critical situations.

Maximizing Your System’s Capabilities 

Pairing a FLIR Marine camera with a modern multifunction display or chartplotter delivers unmatched safety, navigation, and observation capabilities. Consult your navigation electronics manufacturer to ensure optimal integration and full utilization of your system’s features.