Satellite Systems
ACR Launches Next-Gen ResQLink PLB
ACR Electronics is launching its next-generation ResQLink Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) – the first and only buoyant PLBs designed using real-life survivor feedback. Providing a trusted and affordable link to rescue in a life-threatening situation, the new ResQLink 400 and ResQLink View PLBs introduce user-friendly design innovations and add enhanced functionality.Introducing ACR’s Optical Display Technology for even more reassurance and peace of mind, the ResQLink View’s screen displays all the beacon’s operational activities…
Safety Alert: Global Navigation Satellite Systems
This past summer, multiple outbound vessels from a non-U.S. port suddenly lost GPS signal reception. The net effect was various alarms and a loss of GPS input to the ship's surface search radar, gyro units and Electronic Chart Display & Information System (ECDIS), resulting in no GPS data for position fixing, radar over ground speed inputs, gyro speed input and loss of collision avoidance capabilities on the radar display. Fortunately, the vessels were able to safely continue their voyage using radar in heads up display, magnetic compass and terrestrial navigation. Approximately 6nm later, the vessels' GPS units resumed operation.
Simrad MX Now GLONASS Compatible
Simrad says that its new MX Series MX521B Smart Antenna, and HS80A and MX575D DGNSS Compasses are compatible with both Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) system in operation — the US Global Positioning System (GPS) and the Russian Federation's Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS). A space-based satellite navigation system operated by the Russian Aerospace Defense Forces, GLONASS provides additional satellite coverage to GPS. Enhancing heading and position performance, and reducing the time taken for position acquisition…
Three New NS Accessories from Simrad
Simrad Yachting, announced the debut of three new NS Series, compatible products in conjunction with the 2013 Miami International Boat Show. It launches the HH36 handheld VHF radio, GS25 GPS Antenna and WM-3 SiriusXM Satellite Weather & Radio Module. The Simrad HH36 Class D digital selective calling (DSC) marine handheld radio features a large backlit LCD screen, measuring 1 x 1.6 inches (25.5 x 40.4mm). Some features include easy-to-use soft keys, a large push-to-talk button, integrated GPS and two new screen modes – Navigation and Plotter mode. Integrated GPS aids in DSC communication for safety and provides boaters with positional data.
MTN Launches NEXUS
The advent of maritime communications is at a crossroads of sorts, with increased demand for connectivity that mirrors land-based performance, but still stuck at a price point which makes this reality too costly. The situation is particularly poignant onboard modern cruise ships, packed with thousands of passengers and crew that want and need to stay connected. Enter MTN Satellite Communications which today announced the launch of its MTN Nexus, the company’s next-generation communications network.
