Same Sensor, New Layer
The core hardware remains unchanged — depth, speed-through-water, water temperature, and heel and trim data through a single 2-inch thru-hull fitting on the NMEA 2000 network. The Gen2 paddlewheel returns usable speed data below 0.3 knots, goes linear at 0.6, and tracks accurately to 45 knots.
What PSTI Actually Means Onboard
The new compliance is with the UK’s Product Security and Telecommunications Infrastructure (PSTI) Act, in force since April 2024. The legislation requires networked consumer devices to carry unique passwords, provide a defined channel for reporting security vulnerabilities, and maintain published support periods.
For the DST820, that means a QR-code setup at installation — scan, enter a one-time password on your phone, done. Skip it and the sensor still pushes data to your instruments normally; the CAST app’s full feature set just stays locked until you complete it.
More Control Through the CAST App
The CAST app gets expanded capabilities alongside the new sensor. Depth output can now be switched on or off independently, individual data stream update rates are adjustable, and firmware updates and fault logs are managed through the same interface. The app also serves as Airmar’s official security vulnerability reporting channel — a requirement under PSTI. Raymarine, B&G, and Garmin were all involved as OEM partners in the compliance work.
Hardware Updates
Changes on the hardware side are modest but worth noting. Power draw drops from a Load Equivalency Number of 3 to 2 on the NMEA 2000 backbone, and the sensor ships with NMEA database version 3. The 2-inch thru-hull footprint is unchanged, so swapping out a DST810 requires no new hull work.
Availability and Pricing in NZ
The DST820 is available in bronze, stainless, and plastic variants at the same price as the outgoing DST810. The June 1 US phase-out date is a production target; Airmar ANZ will manage the local transition based on its own DST810 inventory levels, so the changeover here is likely to be gradual. All existing DST810 stock carries a three-year warranty.
Craig Cushman, Airmar’s Director of Marketing: “Airmar has long recognised the strength of the sailing market in NZ and Australia. We continue to innovate new technologies and develop platforms that are built for future-forward use.”
Airmar has offered to send a test unit to a New Zealand dealer — a first look from local waters may follow.
