Electronic Chart Background Guide--
Charts for Computers and Computer Navigation Systems

CHS

CHS--Canadian Hydrographic Service--is Canada's sole supplier of official digital charts. 

CHS raster charts are produced in the .bsb graphics format.  Version 3.0 and earlier .bsb charts are compatible with most marine navigation software programs.  However, the current version, BSB 4.0, is only compatible with the following:

• Maptech Offshore Navigator
• Fugawi Marine ENC
• Cap'n
• MaxSea
• Northstar Chart Plotters
• Nobeltec Visual Navigation Suite and Admiral

Other marine navigation packages may support CHS and .bsb format charts; check your user's manual for compatibility or e-mail us for additional information.

CHS vector charts are produced in S57 ENC format.

All raster scans are at a resolution of 254 dpi and are made from Canadian Hydrographic's mylar-film lithography masters.  Colors are consistent with the Canadian Hydrographic Service's paper charts.   Harbor, ocean, and planning charts are bundled on CD-ROM's in regional groups covering Canadian coastal waters, the Great Lakes, and Cuba.  All chart datums are automatically adjusted to WGS 84.

Sample CHS Chart Image