Ship's Log Deluxe - FAQ

(Last Updated 6/20/08)

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When I plug my GPS device into the USB port on my laptop, none of my programs that use GPS data recognize the unit.  How do I connect the GPS unit to my PC, so it will be recognized by Ship's Log Deluxe?

GPS connectivity varies between operating systems and GPS adapters.  If you are using a serial to USB cable adapter and are running a Windows OS other than Vista, you'll need to install the appropriate drivers that came with your cable.  These drivers are also typically available for download via the internet.  If you are running the Vista operating system, it will automatically locate and install the serial to USB adapter drivers.  We've noted that the default drivers selected and installed by Vista may occasionally require that you power down and restart your laptop before they are fully functional.  When the driver initially installs, it will identify the Com port that is assigned to the GPS.  Remember this Com port assignment, as some drivers require that the Com port be explicitly entered in the Ship's Log GPS window.

I recently upgraded my operating system to Vista x64.  When I tried to install Ship's Log Deluxe to my PC with the new 64-bit Vista operating system, I received an error message.  How do I install Ship's Log Deluxe to a PC with a 64-bit operating system?

The current versions of Ship's Log Deluxe do not run under a 64-bit operating system.  However, our latest upgrade to Ship's Log Deluxe (version 4.0) will run under a 64-bit operating system.  This new version is scheduled for release before the end of this year.

I recently loaded Ship's Log Deluxe to my new PC with the Vista operating system.  I noticed that the Help files no longer work.  In fact, none of the Help files on any of my programs work with Vista.  What can I do?

The Windows Help (WinHlp32.exe) program is no longer included with Windows operating systems, starting with Windows Vista.  However, because many programs rely on that program to support their Help files, users may download the program from the Microsoft Download Center, and then install it on their computers.  To download WinHlp32.exe, visit this Microsoft Web site.

I'm the captain of a large commercial vessel.  We're currently in the market for vessel management software.  I've downloaded your demo version & I like your Ship's Log software.  Do you plan to add support for commercial applications in your future releases of Ship's Log?

At this time, our Ship's Log product is geared towards the recreational boating community.  While our product is currently in use with many commercial operators, there is no plan to add functionality to exclusively support our commercial customers.  That said, many of our planned enhancements (such as improved maintenance scheduling and vessel management tools) will support both our recreational and commercial customers.

I recently downloaded the free Upgrade from Ship's Log Deluxe vervion 2.0 to version 3.0.  I'm running this program in Europe and receive an error when trying to query my Log entries by date.  What delimiters do I need to use for my dates?

The upgraded Deluxe version now supports all International date formats, as long as those dates use the "/" delimitter.  You can use the Regional Settings from within the Control Panel to set this parameter in Windows.  Be sure to check our Downloads page periodically, for the latest Ship's Log Deluxe enhancements.

I see there is a new Australian Version of Ship's Log Deluxe.  Can you tell me what the differences are between the original Deluxe Edition and this new Australian Version?

The Australian Version includes all of the functionality of the original Deluxe Edition, plus many additional Boating Safety Publications that are unique to Australia and New Zealand.  In addition, the new Australian Version supports international date formats and sizing of all Windows.  See our exclusive Australian distributor's website at www.power-and-sail-accessories.com for more information on this latest addition to the Ship's Log family, or download a free Demo version.

I view and enter my data on a large monitor.  Can the Ship's Log Deluxe forms be maximized, to take advantage of larger monitors?

The Deluxe version now supports sizing of all Log windows, including the ability to maximize the forms.  The Search Results and Quick List windows can also now be maximized.  See our Downloads page to load the latest Ship's Log Deluxe features.

Every time I exit the Ship's Log Deluxe program, it asks me for confirmation.  Is there a switch in the program that will allow me to turn off this warning message?

The latest update to the Deluxe version now includes a switch to turn off this warning message.  This new switch is located on the Warnings tab, under Settings.  Visit our Downloads page to load these and other great features.

My Fuel Logs aren't displaying accurate totals under certain conditions.  What should I do?

Recent enhancements to the Deluxe version now support all data types for the Fuel Logs.  Please visit our Downloads page to load all of these latest features.

Will Ship's Log Deluxe run under Windows XP?

Yes, the Deluxe version runs under all 32-bit Windows Operating Systems, including XP.

I recently purchased the new release of Ship's Log Deluxe.  When will new enhancements and features become available?

Enhancements to the new Deluxe version are released via our Downloads page, as soon as they become available.  As they are released, these features are incorporated into a single upgrade package.  When you download this package, it will include all prior upgrades.

I own the first version (v1.01) of Ship's Log.  Will my existing database work with the new Deluxe edition?

Yes.  With thousands of Ship's Log databases (version 1.01) in use world-wide, this program will automatically convert all existing data to the new format.  None of your data will be lost and you won't have to re-enter any existing information.

I own the first version (v1.01) of Ship's Log.  Once I convert to the Deluxe version, can I easily share my data with others?

Yes.  The new Deluxe version includes a one-button export capability, so all of your Trip information - including all associated logs - can be copied to any Windows document.

I own several different boats.  Can I keep separate logbooks for each vessel, using a single Ship's Log Deluxe CD?

Yes.  This is one of the benefits of an electronic database.  Simply select New Database from the File menu and enter a name for your new logbook.  We recommend using a meaningful name - such as the name of the vessel.  In this manner, any number of unique logbooks can be maintained.

Can you tell me about some of the new features in the Deluxe edition?

A complete list of the new Ship's Log features, along with more detailed information, can be viewed on our Features page.  Our new version provides a complete vessel management package, including automated Inventory controls, automated Maintenance scheduling and integrated Parts lists.  A new GPS interface provides instant waypoint and log coordinates.  And a new Watch Log feature provides automated reporting for offshore trips.  Other enhancements include improved record access and reporting, as well as additional data storage for Insurance and other information.