Install Charts for SeaClear using a USB dongle or DVD

How to guide: Installing our SeaClear chart packages from a USB dongle or DVD is simple

Anti‑Virus Compatibility

Status: As of January 2016, there have been no reported anti‑virus issues.


Important Notice: First Launch Performance

After installation, the first launch of the SeaClear package will be very slow. Startup can take 45 seconds or more. This is normal behaviour.

The startup sequence is as follows:

  1. EULA: Please read and click “I Agree” to continue

  2. Splash Screen: Displays a notice that printing is disabled while SeaClear is running

  3. SeaClear Application Launch: A world map will appear once fully loaded

Please be patient during this initial startup.

Subsequent launches will be significantly faster:

  • Application startup: approximately 7 seconds

  • Chart changes: approximately 1.5 seconds


Installation Instructions (Windows 7)

The screenshots below illustrate the installation process on Windows 7.

Step 1: Open Installation Media

  • Open the DVD or USB and switch to Folder View so you can see its contents.

  • Click “Computer” to display both internal and external drives.

Step 2: Copy Chart Folder

  • Locate the main folder named VMH‑Charts.

  • Drag this folder directly from the DVD/USB to Drive C:.

⚠️ Important

Do not attempt to install this folder in any other location (e.g. My Documents , Program Files , etc.).

The folder must be placed directly on Drive C: exactly as supplied.

Step 3: File Transfer

  • The copy process may take several minutes.

  • The folder size is approximately 400MB to 800 MB.

Step 4: Create Desktop Shortcuts

  • Drag the three shortcuts provided directly onto your desktop.


Using SeaClear

Once installed, the system is ready for use:

  • Top shortcut
    Launches SeaClear with the charts pre‑loaded.

  • Middle shortcut
    Opens a folder containing:

    • The official SeaClear manual (PDF)

    • Additional useful programs and reference PDFs

    Please print and read the manual, including the terms of use on the back page.

  • Bottom shortcut
    Opens the embedded help manual, written by technical author
    Richard Fairman BA.


Recommended Next Steps

  1. Print and read the official SeaClear manual.

  2. Explore Charts for SeaClear to familiarise yourself with the available content and functionality.


Uninstalling SeaClear

To completely remove the installation:

  • Simply delete the folders that were copied to your system.

  • No registry changes are made during installation, ensuring a clean removal.

  • You may need to restart your PC before deletion is fully completed.