Distribution of official Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) data
Official Finnish Electronic Navigational Charts (ENCs) are distributed to resellers through the Primar distribution centre. ENCs are protected S-57-format chart data used in approved ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) installations onboard vessels.
How does the distribution work in practice?
Finnish ENCs are distributed to resellers via the distribution centre PRIMAR in Norway. The RENC Centres (Regional ENC Coordinating Centres) distribute the ENCs in encrypted form. The encryption complies with the International Hydrographic Organisation’s (IHO) Standard S-63 (IHO Data Protection Scheme). The main purpose of the encryption is to assure clients that the chart data is unchanged and updated. More detailed descriptions of the distribution services can be found on PRIMAR's website.
Licences and distribution methods
ENC distribution is based on different downloading of permits and material. Permits can be ordered flexibly for certain periods of time (1–12 months). There are various distribution services. PRIMAR provides, among others, an online distribution service, where material can be selected from the Chart Catalogue, as well as the possibility to order material directly from the ECDIS system.
An increasingly popular distribution service is Pay As You Sail (PAYS), in which worldwide ENC coverage is downloaded passively in the ECDIS equipment. The ENCs accessed during navigation are registered automatically for invoicing purposes.
Become an ENC distributor?
You can apply to become an ENC distributor through the application form available on the Primar website. After submitting an application, Primar evaluates the applicant’s suitability. Approved resellers receive training on Primar’s products and distribution methods. Resellers gain access to official ENC and S-100 products, product catalogues, licence and user management services, and integration options for their own systems.