Quark-elec Manual
3 of 13
2019
V2.0
2. Set up Overview
This is an overview only. Familiarize yourself with the manual and the manuals of any
connecting devices before installation. It is always recommended that electronic
equipment be installed by an experienced installer.
Before you leave your home:
Consider whether you will need to install a driver.
Drivers software is optional and only needed to access your data via USB.
Windows PC:
A driver is required if using Windows and may install automatically, if not, it is included
on the FREE CD and Quark-elec.com.
Mac / Linux:
Drivers not required for Mac or Linux.
The software is included on the FREE CD and as a download from www.quark-elec.com.
Consider if you have a CD reader/internet access on site if you want to use the above features.
Installation:
1. Mounting: Consider your location…
Dry, sturdy location in reach of your N2K backbone.
Ensure you have the correct length of cables needed for VHF and GPS antennas. If drilling holes for
your cabling, seal around any holes to prevent damage to your vessel or equipment.
2. Connect your Antennas: VHF and GPS
Connect VHF:
If you want to use one VHF antenna for both AIS and radio (or other purposes), then
you will need an active splitter. An active splitter will protect the A028 and your other VHF equipment
(VHF radio). If not, the two signals will significantly damage each device connected as well as reducing
the signal. If using two VHF antennas, place them as far away from each other as possible (at least 3
metres).
Connect GPS if desired: For best results,
the GPS antenna should be located outside where the
sky is visible.
3. Connect to NMEA 2000 Backbone
The A028 is powered through the NMEA 2000 backbone.
4. Check LED lights are working on the A028
Flashing green lights indicate a valid signal is coming through the A028 from either GPS or AIS.
Power:
Top LED flashes at 3
second intervals.
AIS:
Middle LED Flashes for each valid
AIS message received.
GPS:
Bottom LED Flashes every
second while receiving a valid GPS message
5. Disconnect power and connect NMEA 0183 output if desired
Connect the ‘+’ and ‘-‘ terminals of the NMEA output on the A028 to the ‘+’ and ‘-‘ terminals of the input
on the instrument to be connected.
The A028 outputs NMEA 0183 RS422. If your connecting device uses the older NMEA 0183 RS232
and you are having issues with your NMEA connection, you may find swapping these ‘+’ and ‘-
‘terminals works for your device. Alternatively, connect it using a Quark-elec Protocol Bridge (QK-AS03).
6. Connect via USB if required.
Windows PCs may require you to install a driver (on CD and
www.quark-elec.com). Once the driver is installed simply input the COM port number from your Device
Manager into your chart software.
