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A Textbook for ECDIS Use and Training Geomares Publishing released thethird, revised edition of the book TheElectronic Chart , by Horst Hecht, Bern-hard Berking, Mathias Jonas and LeeAlexander. The structure and content of this third edition has been designed tomeet the specific needs of the ECDIS stakeholder community. The book is structured into five major parts, each building sequentially upon the last: Part A (Chapters 1 ? 6) introduces thesubject and explains the basic funda- mentals that make up an ECDIS, rang- ing from architecture to electronic-chartdata structure and methods of display. Part B (Chapter 7 - 13) describes theprimary functions of ECDIS and itspractical use, presenting a comprehen-sive account of ECDIS use in practice, including its potential, requirementsand limitations from the point of view of a navigator. ECDIS functioning is ex- plained based on ECDIS fundamentals. Part C (Chapters 14 - 15) details themeans and process of providing the electronic chart data required to useECDIS worldwide. This includes offi- cial services for ENC data provision, distribution and updating. Part D (Chapters 16 - 18) discussesthe need for and primary objectives and content of ECDIS training. It gives guidance on how to design training courses, including simulator training,supported by ECDIS Demonstrationsoftware developed by a leading ECDIS manufacturer (Transas Marine).The IMO ECDIS training requirements anda cross-reference between training sub-jects and book chapters are given in the Appendix.Part E (Chapters 19 ? 24) describeskey aspects of ECDIS beyond its prac- tical use, such as adequate backuparrangements, safety issue considera- tions, regulatory and legal implications, and some economic aspects. The book concludes with an overview of supple- mentary information layers and otheruses of ECDIS, and an outlook on futuredevelopment. The book can also be used selectively as handbook, with various ECDIS-related topics covered in a stand-alone manner. In addition, an effort has been made to cite references to international standardsand requirements, or for gaining further information about a specific topic. October 2011www.marinelink.com 61BOOKSHELFThe Electronic Chart: Functions, Potential and Limitations Price$84 Webwww.electronic-chart.com Email [email protected] MR Oct.11 # 8 (57-64):MR Template 10/6/2011 4:04 PM Page 61