Pages

Sunday, April 1, 2012

GPS Tracking Can Make Yacht Delivery Easier And Safer

By Alexander Hunt


GPS technology has made yacht delivery simpler and safer. It allows vessel location to be continuously monitored. Vessel tracking devices allow land-based teams to rapidly determine the whereabouts of a vessel. They represent a valuable tool for those responsible for delivery as well as those on land managing the operation. Various system configurations exist but they are generally all simple, inexpensive and allow the vessel location to be displayed on a computer-based map.

Some marine tracking devices use the mobile phone network (GSM) to communicate their location. Others transmit to a satellite allowing coverage in areas where the mobile phone network does not cover. Tracking devices dependent on mobile phone networks are suitable for vessel tracking along coastal voyages. However, they will not allow the tracking device to communicate when a vessel is in the middle of an ocean. Satellite based tracking systems allow position to be monitored virtually anywhere on the globe.

Some of the tracking devices operate on power from the electrical system of the vessel. Others operate from a battery power supply (4 standard AA size lithium batteries) that will operate for one to two months, based on the device communicating its position 12 times per day. Battery life can be extended by reducing the number of transmissions. For example, battery life can be prolonged to one year if tracking transmissions are reduced to one a day.

Satellite-based tracking can be configured in several ways.One approach is to integrate the system with the INMARSAT C communication capability of a vessel. Alternatively, it can involve the installation of a compact D+ transceiver. These units are so small that they can be installed, or buried, discreetly within the hull or deck fittings. The D+ transceivers generally require either 12 or 24 volt electricity supplied from the electrical system of the vessel.

The transceiver is a small unit about 15 cms long, 10 cms wide and 3 cms high. Some are round in shape but of similar area. The transceiver is the only item that must be installed on the yacht. It contains a GPS receiver, a transmitter and software to allow communication with INMARSAT satellites. They units are weather-proof and must have a direct line of sight with satellites.

Information about the position, speed and course heading of the yacht is transmitted via satellite to the shore-based host server. That data is converted into visual format, transmitted via the Internet to subscribers and displayed on their electronic charts. The system is secure, password protected with various levels of access capable of being established.

The risks of ocean voyages and yacht delivery can today be more easily managed if vessels are equipped with a GPS tracking device. These devices are valuable extension of well-known and reliable GPS technology. Many owners that installed these systems to assist delivery, continue to use them on short coastal trips and long ocean passages.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment