Leica MX420 Navigation System is a GPS/DGPS marine navigation system developed based on the successful platform of the MX412B Navigator series. The system is designed to provide position, route, waypoint, and navigation information for ships, while also supporting connections with other marine equipment through the NMEA 0183.

standard. The MX420 series is widely used in older ship navigation systems, especially on vessels that require an independent, easy-to-operate GPS/DGPS navigator with multiple communication ports and integration capabilities with cockpit systems such as radar, ECDIS, AIS, autopilot, VDR, or other marine data display equipment.

The type-approved GPS/DGPS navigation system

Leica MX420/8 is introduced as a navigation system integrating or technology with Leica's marine GPS platform. The system supports GPS or DGPS configuration depending on the antenna/sensor used, which can include either the MX421 Smart GPS AntennaMX575C DGPS Compass or the according to the installation configuration.

In DGPS configurations, the system can enhance positioning accuracy by using a compatible DGPS beacon receiver. Product information also states that accuracy can reach approximately 1 meter when used with the when used with the , depending on signal conditions and the actual configuration.

Two main versions: MX420/2 and MX420/8

series offers configurations for different needs. According to product information,Two main versions: MX420/2 and MX420/8 has notable versions like MX420/2and in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.MX420/8. The key difference lies in the number of NMEA ports:

Product information from both Marinsat and STM Marine states that MX420/8 has 8 bidirectional NMEA 0183 ports, while MX420/2 has 2 ports.

8 bidirectional NMEA 0183 ports for integrated bridge systems

Simrad V5035 AISLeica MX420/8 is its ability to connect multiple marine devices via 8 bidirectional NMEA 0183 ports. This makes the device suitable for complex bridge systems where navigation data needs to be shared with radar, ECDIS, autopilot, VDR, AIS, data printers, repeaters, or other navigation equipment.

According to the operating manual, the NMEA ports on the MX420 can be checked for status and baud rate in the Serial I/O menu; with the MX420/8, some ports are reserved for communication with the GPS and beacon receiver.

Easy navigation with GOTO, Mark and MOB

Leica MX420 is equipped with one-touch function keys such as . These are important functions in marine operations:, : navigate the vessel to a selected destination point.and in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.WAASMan Over Board – MOB

• . These are important functions in marine operations:GOTO
• : navigate the vessel to a selected destination point.Mark
• MOBrecords the location of a person overboard to assist in search and rescue operations.

These function keys help the operator respond faster in situations requiring immediate action, especially when maneuvering, docking, passing through narrow channels, or handling emergencies.

Stores up to 2,000 waypoints and 100 routes

Two main versions: MX420/2 and MX420/8 supports maximum storage of2,000 waypointsand in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.100 routes, allowing users to build, manage, and track multiple routes. Waypoints can use icons and alphanumeric characters for easy identification during operation.

This storage capacity is suitable for commercial vessels, service vessels, offshore fishing vessels, survey vessels, large yachts, and vessels that need to manage many waypoints over a long period.

10 function modes for navigation assistance

The Leica MX420/8 has10 function modes to facilitate easier navigation. In addition to basic positioning functions, the system also includes utilities such astide program, Sun and Moon almanac, wind calculations, and a3-D Panorama.

These functions provide operators with additional reference data on tides, sun, moon, and wind, aiding in voyage planning, maneuvering, and assessment of marine environmental conditions.

Software upgradeable to support AIS

A notable feature of the system is its ability to record data related to telegraph demand, engine operation, and propeller operation. This information helps determine the maneuvering commands issued, the response of the propulsion system, and the correlation between control commands and the vessel's actual movement.MX420/8 is its software upgradeability to support AIS. The MX420/8 brochure states that the MX420/8 can be upgraded to MX420/8AIS by purchasing and installing the appropriate upgrade software.

This allows the MX420 system to expand its functionality according to operational needs, especially for vessels wishing to integrate additional AIS data into the same navigation platform without replacing the entire system immediately.

Compact CDU design, easy to install

The MX420 CDU – Control and Display Unit is the main control/display unit of the system. The installation manual describes the CDU as the primary device with an integrated screen and keypad, which can be installed in various ways such as gimbal mount, , MX575C DGPS Compass, or depending on configuration.

depending on the configuration.

The compact design makes the MX420 easy to install on the cockpit console, replacing older equipment or retrofitting onto vessels that already have the MX400/MX412 system.

Product information indicates that the MX420 software is IBM compatible, capable of printing or downloading additional data. This is advantageous for systems that need to store, export, or process trip, waypoint, and route data on a computer for operational management or maintenance.

The MX420/8 has been replaced by the MX512 CDU

Leica/MX420 is an older generation device. Some product sources now specify MX420/8 has been replaced with MX512 CDUwhileMX420/2 has been replaced with MX510 CDU. Therefore, when ordering or replacing, it is necessary to carefully check whether the need is to purchase spare parts for the old system or upgrade to a newer CDU model.

For vessels currently using the MX420, replacing it with a device from the same series may be more convenient in terms of cabling, communication, and configuration; however, if upgrading the system, compatibility with existing antennas, NMEA ports, power supplies, and data receiving equipment must be checked.

Key Features of the Leica MX420 Navigation System

• Marine Navigation System GPS/DGPS Navigator.
• Developed based on the successful platform of the MX412B Navigator.
• Available in versions MX420/2, MX420/8and in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.MX420/AIS.
• MX420/8 has 8 portsBi-directional NMEA 0183.
• MX420/2 has 2 bi-directional NMEA 0183 ports.
• Supports integration ofor.
• Can be used withMX421 GPSMX575C DGPS CompassMX421B DGPS Smart Antenna depending on configuration.
• Supports single or dual redundant configuration.
• Can achieve high accuracy when used with a suitable beacon receiver.
• Has10 function modes supporting navigation.
• One-touch keys:GOTO, Mark, Man Over Board.
• Features tide program, Sun/Moon almanac, and wind calculation.
• Display mode 3-D Panorama.
• Save to 2,000 waypointsand in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.100 routes.
• Supports icons and alphanumeric characters for waypoints.
• IBM compatible software, supports printing or downloading data.
• MX420/8 software upgradeable to support AIS.
• MX420/8 has been replaced by MX512 CDU.

System configuration and associated equipment

A Leica MX420 Navigation System may include:

MX420 installation manual describes models includingMX420/2, MX420/8, MX420/BR, MX420/BRIM, MX420/AIS BASIC and MX420/AIS DGPS, so when ordering, you should check the correct model and configuration being used on board.

Application of Leica MX420 on ships

Leica MX420 Navigation SystemSuitable for:

• Commercial vessels
• Cargo ship.
• Passenger ship.
• Service vessel.
• Offshore fishing vessel.
• Large yacht.
• Marine GPS/DGPS navigation system.
• System requires multiple NMEA 0183 ports.
• Vessel requires waypoint, route, and MOB management.
• System needs to provide position data to radar, ECDIS, AIS, autopilot, VDR.
• Project to replace, repair, or retrofit older Leica/MX Marine systems.

Why choose the Leica MX420 Navigation System?

Leica MX420 is a suitable choice for vessels currently using older Leica/MX Marine navigation systems that require replacement, repair, or maintenance of compatibility with the existing bridge system. Specifically, the MX420/8 version features 8 bi-directional NMEA 0183 ports, making it ideal for vessels with numerous devices requiring position and navigation data.

In addition to GPS/DGPS positioning, the system supports various practical navigation functions such as GOTO, Mark, MOB, waypoints, routes, tide program, Sun/Moon almanac, wind calculations, and optional AIS upgrade, catering to diverse operational needs on board.

Notes when ordering the Leica MX420 Navigation System

Before ordering or replacing the Leica MX420 , it is advisable to clearly check:

• Device is MX420/2, MX420/8MX575C DGPS CompassMX420/AIS.
• Is the set a complete set or just a MX421 GPS antenna.
• Does it come with MX421B DGPS antennaMX575C DGPS CompassIs the configuration standard GPS or DGPS..
• Is the configuration standard GPS or DGPS.
• Is there a request to upgrade AIS.
• Is it necessary to keep the 8 NMEA ports on the MX420/8.
• Does the current system on board use radar, ECDIS, VDR, AIS, or autopilot receiving data from the MX420.
• Are the NMEA ports, baud rate, and signal wires compatible with the system being installed.
• Is the device new old stock, used, refurbished, or on an exchange basis.
• If long-term replacement is needed, consider the replacement series depending on the system version. depending on the system version.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is Leica MX420?

Leica MX420 is a maritime navigation system GPS/DGPS Navigation System, used to provide position, waypoint, route, and navigation data for ships.

How do MX420/2 and MX420/8 differ?

The main difference is the number of NMEA ports.MX420/2 has 2 bidirectional NMEA 0183 ports, while MX420/8 has 8 bidirectional NMEA 0183 ports.

Does the Leica MX420 support DGPS?

Yes. The system supports integrated DGPS, and can use antennas/sensors like the or the or a suitable beacon receiver depending on the configuration.

Can the MX420 store waypoints and routes?

Yes. The system supports up to 2,000 waypointsand in appropriate configurations. These technologies help improve the quality of positioning data when the operating area has corresponding augmented signal support.100 routes, waypoints can be managed using symbols and alphanumeric characters.

Can the MX420/8 be upgraded to AIS?

Yes. The MX420/AIS brochure states that the MX420/8 can be upgraded to MX420/8AIS by installing the appropriate upgrade software.

Is the MX420/8 still in production?

The MX420/8 is an old model and has been replaced by the MX512 CDU; the MX420/2 has been replaced by the MX510 CDU according to information from marine equipment suppliers.