NMEA DBS datagram
The NMEA DBS datagram provides the current depth from the surface. The datagram is no longer recommended for use in new designs. It is frequently replaced by the NMEA DPT datagram.
Format
$--DBS,x.x,f,y.y,M,z.z,F*hh<CR><LF>
Description
All depths are measured from below the sea surface.
1 $—Talker identifier
2 DBSDatagram identifier
3 x.x,fDepth in feet
4 y.y,MDepth in metres
5 z.z,FDepth in fathoms
6 *hhChecksum
Tip
If you need the depth below the keel, use the NMEA DBK datagram. If you need the depth below the transducer, use the NMEA DBT datagram.