Thrane & Thrane has expanded its established workboat and fishing vessel VHF radio portfolio with the launch of the new SAILOR 6217 VHF DSC Class D AIS Receiver. The new system brings parallel dual channel VHF receive functionality to the toughest line of VHF DSC Class D radios. The new receiver integrates a two channel parallel AIS Receiver, which enables it to perform a … [Read more...]
Canadian Coast Guard To Modernize Marine Communications and Traffic Services
The Canadian Coast Guard has announced a plan to modernizing twelve Marine Communications and Traffic Centres across the country with state-of-the-art technology to ensure the uninterrupted communication and traffic services of mariners. “The safety of Canadians and mariners is the top priority of the Canadian Coast Guard,” said Minister Keith Ashfield, Minister … [Read more...]
FleetBroadband Multi-voice – INMARSAT Merges VOIP And Data
Inmarsat has announced a new capability that will allow up to nine simultaneous telephone calls to be made through a single FleetBroadband terminal. “FleetBroadband Multi-voice is a unique integrated solution that maintains Inmarsat's well-earned reputation for high-quality voice,” said Frank Coles, president, Inmarsat Maritime. “It offers a far superior … [Read more...]
So what is an IMO Number anyway?
Wikipedia tells us "The IMO number is made of the three letters 'IMO'followed by the seven-digit number assigned to all ships by IHS Fairplay when constructed. This is a unique seven digit number that is assigned to propelled, sea-going merchant ships of 100 GT and above. It serves to identify ships and is not changed when the ship's owner, country of registry or name changes." … [Read more...]
UK Based Ocean Signal Enters Crowded GMDSS Market – Video
With the crowded nature of the GMDSS / Emergency Signaling market, does the maritime world really need another manufacturer? I'll leave that question for you to fight over in the comments but, regardless of need, a new player has emerged; a UK based company called Ocean Signal. Take a look at the following video for a sneak preview of their … [Read more...]
Green Lasers – Not SOLAS Approved But Can They Save Lives?
In past articles gCaptain contributor Mario Vittone has clearly illustrated the importance of flares in finding vessels in distress. And having nineteen years of combined military service in the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, the bulk of which he spent looking for mariners in distress, we value his opinion on the matter. But Mario also cautions about the dangers and limits of … [Read more...]
A Satellite Phone Cheaper Than AT&T or Verizon?
Can you get a satellite phone cheaper than AT&T or Verizon? No but at $20 per month Globalstar is offering an unlimited airtime call plan for new customers. A plan both cheaper and with much greater call coverage than any cell phone provider. gCaptian purchased an older model GSP-1600 Phone via Amazon to test the voice plan. The results were good, we purchased a used phone … [Read more...]