Navigation & Communications Equipment Review

Through recent technology breakthroughs and advancements, the leading manufacturers of marine electronics are constantly introducing innovative products in an effort to make navigation safer and more precise, and communications faster and easier.

Newer, more compact, and more powerful lorans, radars, radiotelephones, weather chart recorders, navtex receivers, ARPAs, hand-held phones, etc., with state-of-the-art, cost-effective features continue to be introduced to the marine market.

In an efFort to sort out some of these new choices, the editors of MARITIME REPORTER have asked a number of the marine market leaders in the fields of navigation and communication equipment and services to report on their newly introduced product lines. The following review is based on information we had received at press time.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To receive free literature describing any of the high-tech products detailed in this review, circle the appropriate reader service number listed under each company's name, using the postage-paid card bound into the back of this issue.

ALDEN C i r c l e 8 2 on Reader Service Card Alden Electronics, Inc., Westboro, Mass., has introduced the lowcost Alden Faxmate™ Weather Chart Recorder.

Armand Bouchard, Faxmate product manager, said "Alden is introducing Faxmate to provide an economical means for all mariners to be able to acquire vital weather and oceanographic charts while underway.

As an added bonus, the Faxmate can double as a printer for an IBM PC or compatible computer, since it features a standard Centronics interface." Designed to operate with any HF or ham radio, the Faxmate provides mariners with surface analyses charts which show current locations of storms as well as prognoses which predict the indicated speed and direction of these storms. Many transmit sites now broadcast sea surface temperature, mixed layer depth and the location of warm and cold water eddies which are so helpful in locating species of fish.

The Faxmate complements Aiden's current line of Marinefax recorders which have won the coveted National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) Award for reliability and performance for the last eight consecutive years.

FURUNO C i r c l e 8 3 on Reader Service Card Furuno U.S.A., Inc., South San Francisco, Calif., has recently introduced a number of new products, including radar video plotter adapters, radars, and a direction finder.

Furuno's new FR-8000D series radars are designed to provide top performance at a reasonable price for most workboats, fishing vessels, and smaller passenger boats. These radars, available in 5-, 10-, and 25- kw models, features extremely high resolution, 12-inch monochrome CRT displays with no-compromise eight-level quantization.

Following last year's successful introduction of the FR-2010D Xband radar, Furuno expanded this line with the addition of a 30-kw Sband model for top performance in adverse weather. This new FR- 2030S is particularly suited for oceangoing ships, fishing vessels and ferries, all of which are inevitably involved in rough sea conditions.

The FR-2030S provides a bright 20- inch diagonal high resolution CRT that shows radar returns in eight levels of high contrast yellow-orange against a selectable background for day or night. Target detection is enhanced by use of echo stretch and averaging.

Furuno also introduced an innovative family of video navigation plotter adapters for all the new digitized radars. Two series are available— the RP series, which are basic video plotters, and the ARP series, which provide automatic tracking of manually acquired targets. All plot control electronics are contained in the radar display units, making for an extremely compact and convenient installation. Of course, appropriate heading and position sensors must be fitted.

For general navigation and rescue operations, Furuno offers the microprocessor- controlled ADF FD-160.

Its built-in microprocessor permits programming of up to 200 channels in 100-Hz steps from 100.0 kHz to 29.9999 MHz. All channels and reception modes are stored in memory and preserved by rechargeable battery.

Two forms of scanning are provided: band scanning that traces frequencies within a selected range or steps through preset intervals, or channel scanning that accesses designated channels either in order or in preset steps.

Also within the past year, Furuno U.S.A. was appointed exclusive distributor for the Lokata line of 406 MHz distress beacons in the U.S.

These advanced beacons transmit on the worldwide frequency for satellite- aided search and rescue, and include information on ship identification and type emergency. Signals are relayed via polar-orbiting COSPAS-SARSAT satellites to ground stations which then calculate vessel position to within 1-2 km.

GALBRAITH-PILOT MARINE C i r c l e 8 4 on Reader Service Card The Galbraith-Pilot Marine Division of Marine Electric RPD, Inc., recently unveiled a new line of shipboard communications equipment ranging from water-tight control panels for helicopter flight decks to cruise passenger ship emergency loudspeaker systems with a capacity of 400 loudspeakers capable of reaching all quarters of a large cruise vessel.

This line of communications equipment features control panels for four, five or seven speaker groups; a water-tight control panel for four speaker groups for use on weather deck and gangway watch stations; an intercom control panel for all interior quarters; and amplifiers with power from 50 to 250 watts.

Also included is a complete range of loudspeakers, some weatherproofed for outdoor deck locations; entertainment speakers for ward rooms, staterooms and lounges; and explosion-proof speakers for engine rooms, cargo holds and other potentially hazardous areas.

Accessories such as handsets, push-button switches, stowage boxes and jack boxes are also available.

GOLDSTAR C i r c l e 9 5 on Reader Service Card Goldstar Precision, Cerritos, Calif., has introduced a new color radar series featuring models GS-924C, GS-932C and GS-948C for the commercial vessel and passenger boat market.

Featuring high-resolution 8-inch color CRTs with real images in eight colors, 5-kw transmitter power and a choice of 24- , 32- or 48-nm, the new Goldstar color scan radar series offers sophisticated, high-tech performance.

According to Goldstar, each unit has on screen readouts of all operational information of features status to assure the easier and safer operation of the radars. Three different digital Guard Zones are set up using the two EBLs and VRMs with audible and visual alarm on the target's penetration into the guarded area.

Other features include: track history showing targets movement; off-centered display for picture exapnsion in aft and bow direction; STC, FTC and IR, etc.; and interfacing with Loran-C NMEA 0182/0183 and Compass NMEA 0183 to supply ship's course.

GS-924C series radar facilitate the easy-to-operate multifunctions.

The series features a menu table with such functions as: "TUNE"— maximize the target echoes on the screen; "RAIN"—suppress the clutter caused by rain, snow, fig, mist, etc.; "ILLUM"—adjust the brightness level of the control panel; "BRILL"—adjust the CRT brightness level; "BACK"—select daylight blue or black background color; "PICT"—select the target presentation mode in color or monochrome; "NAV"—select navigation mode in Head-up or Course-Up; "RINGS"—range rings on/off; "IR" interference rejection on/off; "TRACK"—track history on/off; "EXP"—target expansion on/off; and "LORAN"—latitude and longitude or time difference.

HARRIS C i r c l e 1 0 8 on Reader Service Card New from Harris is a remote control device for its RF-3200 marine single sideband radio. Now you can mount the radio in one location and the remote control up to 125 feet away, with operation from either location.

The RF-3234 Remote Control Unit is now available as an optional accessory with the RF-3200. The package includes a remote control unit with built-in speaker, a mounting cradle with hardware, microphone, control cable and an interface circuit board for installation in the RF-3200 transceiver.

Front-panel controls on the RF- 3234 include channel and scan group selectors, scanning switch, squelch, clarifier, mode and noise blanker, as well as indicators showing system status. Operation of the remote control is similar to the RF- 3200, making it easy to learn and use.

The RF-3234 is the latest in a series of options to be introduced by Harris for the RF-3200 radio. Harris designed the RF-3200 with spare slots inside the transceiver so it can be easily upgraded with slip-in circuit boards as new options are available.

Other new options planned for the radio include ARQ modem capability for data transmission and an FCC and DOC accepted linear 1,000-watt amplifier for added power.

The RF-3234 has a rugged, weather resistant housing that is designed for the harsh marine environment.

The remote unit is less than 3-1/2 inches high, 8-3/4 inches wide and 5-1/2 inches deep. It weighs approximately 3-1/2 pounds, including the mounting frame.

The RF-3200, introduced by Harris last year, is a 125-watt SSB radio, which pioneered a number of new features not previously available.

HULL ELECTRONICS C i r c l e 9 6 on Reader Service Card Hull Electronics Company has expanded its complete line of HF/ SSB transceivers and automatic antenna couplers to include fully equipped radio stations for high- speed data transmissions.

The first is a radio/telex station that handles FEC or SITOR messages in the ARQ mode; several of these stations have been installed and are in operation.

The second is a computer radio network station which permits computer- to-computer transmissions over Hull's HF/SSB radio l i n k - said to be ideal for business communications between boat and shore.

Either station's transmit power may be boosted by using Hull's soon-tobe- released 1 kw linear amplifier.

ICOM C i r c l e 9 7 on R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd ICOM America, Inc., headquartered in Bellevue, Wash., recently introduced the technologically advanced commercial grade VHF marine transceivers IC-M500 and ICM500D.

The IC-M500 has been FCC type accepted for mandatory and compulsory radio-telephone usage for small passenger boats.

The IC-M500D's full duplex system allows one to talk and receive at the same time, like a cellular telephone.

The IC-M500D comes standrad with an HS-50 telephone handset.

The result of extensive research and rigid testing, the versatile ICM500D meets all communications needs. Specially constructed with extensive moisture protection system, the IC-M500D is water-resistant, providing high reliability in moisture and saltwater air environments.

The IC-M500D features: extensive new water-tight design; excellent receiver sensitivity and performance; six scanning systems including dual watch and tri-watch; 48 memory channels in three 16-channel banks; 5-watt audio output, 10 watts with optional external speaker; 30-watt two-way hailer/intercom system; manual 30-watt foghorn (300Hz tone); optional plug-in scrambler; full duplex system standard on IC-M500D; all U.S. and international channels, plus expansion channels; and waterproof microphone/ waterproof gold-plated connectors.

The IC-M500D also receives police, fire and land mobile frequencies.

Additionally, the FCC-type accepted IC-M500 is backed by a oneyear warrantly and lifetime service policy.

Also available from ICOM is the M500 digital voice scrambler for use with both the IC-M500 and ICM500D.

KELVIN HUGHES C i r c l e 8 5 on R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd The latest products from Kelvin Hughes, Ltd. of England, a subsidiary of Smiths Industries, pic, are the new generation Concept radar systems, HR 2000 and HR 3000.

Concept radar systems from Kelvin Hughes provide a unique and flexible approach to ergonomic bridge layout. The Concept HR series has been developed to achieve total radar system integration in either existing vessels or bridge designs for the 1990s.

The high resolution monitor, keyboard and processor of the Concept HR radar can be situated remotely in any configuration—either bulkhead, deck console, deck head or desk-mounted, or can form one fully integrated unit in which the monitor angles can be adjusted to suit operator preference. Additional remote monochrome or color monitors can also be included in the Concept package.

Concept HR systems offer relative motion, true motion, and ARPA facilities, combined with E-Plot II, an enhanced version of the unique Kelvin Hughes electronic plotting program. Identical positioning of keyboard controls for these features throughout the range assists operational confidence and familiarity.

On the Concept HR system, all ship data and status can be ideally zoned for instant assimilation.

KODEN C i r c l e 8 6 on R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd Koden International, Inc., Nor- well, Mass., has introduced a complete line of technologically advanced radar systems designed to meet commercial and workboat operating standards.

Koden developed one of the first color video sounders over a decade ago and is one of the most respected names in marine electronics.

The new radar line includes seven models, five of which have been designed to suit commercial requirements— MD-3730, MD-3731, MD-3751, MD-3711B, and MD- 3721A. They are available with ranges from 32 to 96 nautical miles.

All feature 12-inch, daylight bright green (or amber) screens and eight-level quantization to facilitate discrimination of targets from seaclutter, rain and snow. Additionally, a microwave integrated circuit (MIC) is positioned in the front end of the receiver where it maintains high receiving sensitivity with low loss, to clearly display small targets.

The use of a long-life magnetron ensures high reliability of the transmitter and modulator. Mechanical parts, common to other systems, were replaced with reliable, solidstate devices.

Other features include two EBLs, two VRMs, audible/visible proximity alarm, interference rejection, target enhancement and 50 percent downward off-center plotting. All are standard capabilities of each unit.

Picture presentation modes include head-up, north-up and course-up. The latter two modes are available when an optional interface unit is used to connect a gyrocompass.

Standard equipment supplied with each unit includes display unit, antenna unit with cable, power cable, spare parts kit and installation materials.

Koden has also introduced two Loran C units, the LR-771 and LR- 769, as well as two new color track display plotting units, the LTD-200 and LTD-100.

KRUPP ATLAS C i r c l e 8 7 on Reader Service Card Advanced navaids from Krupp Atlas Elektronik include the FCC type-approved 7600-8600 Series of Atlas rasterscan radars. Together with a 12-inch companion model, the Atlas 5600, well over 1,000 systems have now been sold worldwide.

A recently announced new 16-inch derivative, the Atlas 8630 VTC, has been specifically designed for port vessel traffic control applications and has already been ordered for service in China and elsewhere.

Other products available include the NACOS 20 integrated navigation bridge control system designed primarily for single manning and precision navigation at reduced cost. Typically comprising two rasterscan radars, a doppler log, echo sounder and an adaptive radar-controlled autopilot, the main console also includes a full-color navigation information display unit as well as interfaces for other sensors and bridge equipment.

The system has now been extended with the introduction of NACOS 25, a three-radar configuration with a special navigation control center and identical workstations for the watch-officer, pilot and master.

All radars additionally display lat/long coordinates together with own-ship position.

Originally developed for the West German "Ship of the Future" program, some 60 NACOS systems have now been sold worldwide for Ship of the Future, research and conventional newbuilding applications.

MACKAY C i r c l e 9 8 on Reader Service Card Mackay Communications, Elizabeth, N.J., a leader in service and communications for over 50 years, is now a premier marketing and sales organization. Shipowners, naval architects, government agencies, and shipyards can go to one source for all their equipment, consulting, service and installation needs. Mackay offers sales and service for a broad line of marine electronic equipment.

Mackay has recently announced a new generation high frequency marine radio console. The MRU-35M, is a 1,000-watt, solid-state unit that incorporates the latest state-of-theart communications technology demanded in today's single side band, CW and teletype environments.

Mackay offers a complete product line of" INMARSAT satellite earth stations from Standard "A" shipboard and transportable terminals to small size, inexpensive Standard "C" units. The Saturn 3S shipboard terminal incorporates the Okitex multiport/multifunction communications terminal which provides state-of-the-art message preparation/ text editing and computer interface capability. The Saturn T is a transportable satellite terminal in 3 suitcases that can be set up and made fully operational in 15 minutes with no tools required. Mackay recently announced the Saturn C would be available this fall when the INMARSAT Standard C system becomes operational.

MARINESAFETY Circle 9 on Reader Service Card MarineSafety International (MSI), a wholly owned subsidiary of FlightSafety International, operates ship simulation facilities at Kings Point, N.Y., and Newport, R.I., which are used for port and harbor design assistance, maritime research, and training of ships' officers and harbor pilots.

One of the latest contracts awarded to MSI was for shiphandling simulator training for four groups of Panama Canal pilots, with an option for four additional groups in 1990.

The training consists of shiphandling and emergency exercises conducted in precisely simulated sections of the Panama Canal, Cristobal and Balboa Harbors. The pilots experience unexpected situations while piloting various types of ships.

The handling characteristics of 24 different types of ships are modeled in the simulator's computer. Up to 10 other ships can be seen as passing, crossing or lock traffic.

The Panama Canal pilots are being trained at MSI's Newport facility, which houses four interactive ship simulators. Each simulator provides the pilot with a ship's bridge (or bridge wing) from which he sees a realistic visual scene of a portion of the 50-mile long canal.

The visual includes waterways and locks, cultural features, navigation aids and other ship traffic. The pilot issues commands and his "ship" reacts as it would in real life.

In addition to the Panama Canal pilot training, MSI Newport provides shiphandling simulator training for up to 1,200 U.S. Naval officers per year, for ship's officers and pilots from the St. Lawrence Seaway and for masters and mates from U.S. shipping companies.

MICROLOGIC Circle 9 9 on Reader Service Card Micrologic, Chatsworth, Calif., is offering the ML-8000 Loran, a water-proof portable unit with telescopic antenna that lets one navigate to any of its 250 waypoints using its advisory and prompting messages.

The portable ML-8000 provides eight hours of operation and comes with its own charger. The unit can also be operated on continuous charge by simply wiring a power input plug into the boat's 12-volt system.

All waypoint entries can be made using Lat/Lon, TDs, Range/Bearing or present position. The Loran provides automatic chain and secondary station selection, magnetic variation, ASF (land mass) correction, waypoint sequencing and waypoint routing. There are nine routes available with 20 waypoints in each route. Manual override functions provide maximum coverage in fringe areas.

The navigational outputs include parallel routing for search patterns, specified approach heading, simultaneous long and short run speed and course averaging, range and bearing to a waypoint or between waypoints, velocity made good (VMG), cross-track error (CTE), course error, time-to-go, ETA, and adjustable graphic course deviation scaling.

Audible and visual alerts are provided for waypoint arrival, anchor watch, cross-track error and borders (useful when nearing off-limit waters). Present positions can be saved by pressing the "SAVE" key and recalled later by pressing the "RECALL" key.

NMEA 0180 is standard on the Portable ML-8000 for autopilot and CDX outputs.

NAVAL ELECTRONICS C i r c l e 1 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd Naval Electronics, Inc., Tampa, Fla., has recently introduced the HTS-1 "audio booster" amplified speaker. It is a portable speaker with a powerful amplifier built in, boosting receiver sound by a factor of 10 times, according to the company.

The HTS-1 amplified speaker is normally powered by four "AA" batteries but can also be powered by internal rechargeable Nickel-Cadmium batteries, as it has a built-in charger. The HTS-1 can operate from a 12-volt source such as a cigarette lighter socket, or any DC source from 6-15 vDC.

The HTS-1 incorporates a lOdb audio amplifier and a 3.5-inch oval speaker. It also features a special battery saver circuit which shuts-off the audio amplifier automatically (producing a battery drain of less than 1 milli-amp) if your HT is squelched more than 10 seconds.

The amp turns on the instant the channel becomes active again. An LED indicates the battery saver status.

NORCONTROL C i r c l e 8 8 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd Norcontrol Simulation, Horten, Norway, has recently completed the installation and commissioning of Korea's first ship-handling simulator.

It has been delivered to Korea Marine Training and Research Institute in Pusan.

The multimillion-dollar project was completed on time, and the simulator is housed in the institute's new simulation and research building.

Offering both post-graduate courses and certification, as well as other courses, the institute is now using the ship-handling simulator to form the base for their new pilot training and marine research program.

Included in the delivery is a fully equipped bridge, fitted with radar, ARPA, maneuver consoles, steering stand, pelorus, a complete set of real navigation instruments and communication equipment, as well as overhead panel and indicators.

Measuring 20 feet by 23 feet, the bridge itself is mounted on a motion platform, and includes both vibration and sound systems. The visual system, capable of producing day/ dusk/night scenes in addition to fog, covers 234 degrees by 26 degrees field of view. The instructor station renders complete control of all parameters, and includes advanced briefing and debriefing facilities as well as a database development work station.

Prepared for the future, the system may also be connected to more own ships' bridges, engine room, ballast and liquid cargo simulators, to form a complete system for training of dual purpose officers.

Norcontrol Simulation, one of the world's largest suppliers of marine simulators, currently has five other ship-handling simulators on order, in addition to a large number of radar and navigation, engine room, ballast, liquid cargo, fishery and instrument simulators.

RH TRADING C i r c l e 8 9 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd RH Trading, a subdivision of Radio Holland USA, Houston, Texas, is marketing a number of new marine electronics products.

A new quality COSPAS/SARSAT 406 MHz EPIRB, Tron 30 S manufactured by Jotron Electronics is a reliable and worldwide-proven EPIRB. It transmits on the COSPAS/ SARSAT frequency 406 MHz and homing frequencies 121.5 MHz and 243.0 MHz.

The Tron 30 S features activation by three methods—by seawater contact, by means of pulling a safety pin, or by a "panic switch." The ruggedly constructed Tron 30 S has long storage time batteries and can be fitted with a float-free or bulkhead-mounted bracket.

Although Tron 30 S has already been fitted aboard various U.S.- owned vessels, FCC approval is still pending.

In addition, RH Trading also markets the new Sailor RT 2048 Simplex/Semi Duplex VHF Radiotelephone, a quality compact unit for low cost. The VHF operates with a continuous output power of 25 watts. Furthermore, the RT 2048 is equipped with all 55 international VHF channels plus a choice of either 10 private channels and full scanning facilities or 40 private channels.

Dual watch and a quick channel 16 are standard (selcall optional).

RAYTHEON MARINE C i r c l e 2 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd Ratheon's Pathfinder®/ST True Motion/Relative Motion Radars with Electronic Plotting provide a Superior Technology (ST) signal processing system which detects weak targets typically lost in rain and sea clutter. Combined with high-performance transmitters and transceivers, and the latest raster displays, the PATHFINDER/ST provides excellent, high-tech performance.

Available with a choice of 34 or 25-cm (16- and 12-inch) displays, the PATHFINDER/ST radar plots six targets simultaneously, and displays calculated speed and heading data for any two selected targets, in ten ranges from 1/4 to 96 miles. Target true wakes highlight speed and direction of moving targets.

Presentations can be Relative Motion, showing own vessel as fixed, or True Motion, showing own vessel and other targets moving on the screen.

While the heart of the PATHFINDER/ ST performance improvements is the Superior Technology signal processing system, with five separate processing programs, Raytheon's new receiver is also a noticeable improvement. Using more sensitive, low-noise amplifiers, the input sensitivity of this receiver has been increased from 3 to 4 db (two to two-and-a-half times).

Newest among Raytheon radars are the R81/R82/R84 rasterscan radars, 96-mile radars with 14-inch CRTs available with a selection of transceivers: 10 kw X-band (R81); 25 kw X-band (R82); and 10 kw Sband (R84) with a variety of antenna sizes (4 to 10 feet). And, the R70A/R71/R72/R73/R74 radars (pending FCC type acceptance at time of this writing), offering maximum ranges of 48 and 72 miles, depending on the model, with 12- inch CRT screens. The S-band R84 and S-band R74 radars are especially well-suited for use in hostile weather situations.

Both of these new series are designed with heavy-duty construction throughout. When connected to properly-formatted external navigation receivers, these radars display valuable information on-screen, including own vessel's Lat/Long or TD position and ship speed.

Raytheon added an innovative feature to its SeaGuard zone intrusion alarm in both these radar series.

The alarm warns not only of targets entering a designated area, but also of targets leaving preset boundaries.

With Raytheon's R81/R82/R84 radars, the operator can electronically designate and numerically mark up to ten targets on-screen; and, electronic parallel cursor lines greatly facilitate quick plotting.

Other new products introduced by Raytheon include the NWU-53 color video plotter; RAYSTAR-920 GPS navigator; RAY-NAV-780 Loran- C navigator; and NCR 300A navtex receiver.

RAYTHEON SERVICE C i r c l e 1 1 0 on Reader Service Card Raytheon Service Company, Marine Sales & Service Division, provides a worldwide capability as a one-stop source for sales, service, installation, maintenance, overhaul and supplies for high-quality marine navigation, communications, and monitoring and control equipment and systems from a broad variety of international manufacturers.

The company offers 24-hour, seven- days-a-week service that extends to any area of the world, operating from nine strategically located U.S.

port offices/repair centers. Customers include vessel owners, operators, builders and repairers; dredgers, marine constructors, hydrographic surveyors and researchers, and a variety of government agencies.

Conscious of rapid industry-wide changes and new regulations affecting equipment and their operations, Raytheon Service Company designated Weldon Vogt, Eastern Area marketing manager, based in the Pennasauken, N.J., headquarters office, to provide information, data and advice on current and future industry trends and regulatory requirements.

Expansion and new personnel have added strength to the company's ability to meet customers' requirements.

To better serve the Central/South Florida ports, a ninth Raytheon Service Company facility was opened in Ft. Lauderdale under the direction of Mark L. Mitchell, a 10-year veteran with the company.

Robert DeRoche, a 15-year veteran in marine electronic equipment sales and service, was named Gulf service manager, incorporating the Houston and New Orleans offices.

One of the driving forces behind Raytheon Service Company is its innovation and ability in expanded customer service or in the development and production of new equipment— finding a need and filling it.

A prime example of this is the recent introduction of the new SITOR 489P Telex System, a userfriendly marine ARQ telex system that employs a computer-driven (PC) interface. This development points to the firm's advances in "systems integration," the ability to utilize top-quality components in the design and production of new and highly useful equipment.

Raytheon Service Company is a separate operating division of Raytheon Company, Lexington, Mass.

RDD C i r c l e 3 on Reader Service Card RDD, Inc., an intercommunications specialist with over 20 years' experience in the marine and petrochemical electronics field, recently announced several new manufacturers' representative agreements.

RDD is still the exclusive U.S.

distributor for SPT of the U.K., manufacturers of marine soundpowered telephone products. RDD has recently signed an agreement to market and support Newco Safety Tel of Calgary's unique line of explosion- proof and non-explosionproof push-button intercom systems.

Rheiner Dinges, president of RDD, said that unlike similar page/party systems, the Newco intercom utilizes latest state-of-theart design which allows for selective ringing, selective paging, all paging, interfacing with plant or rig PABX systems, and flexible zone configuration.

RDD also announced it has been appointed manufacturer's representative for U.M.E.C. (United Marine Electronics and Communications) of Ottawa, Canada. United Marine is reported to be the largest supplier of internal ships communications systems to the Canadian Coast Guard, manufacturing state-of-theart integrated ships communications systems including marine automatic telephone, talk-back/intercom/ loud hailer/public address/security and audio/video entertainment systems. RDD and U.M.E.C.

are in the process of completing the supply and commissioning of two marine automatic telephone systems, type MPBX-200 to Bethlehem Steel for the U.S. Navy TAGS- 39 and -40 projects.

Furthermore, RDD announced an agreement to market a new explosion- proof and weather-proof pushbutton telephone for Northern Telecom. The new phone is available in touch-tone or pulse dial format and compatible with both PABX and land lines. Other features include last number redial and internal ring relay for external signal devices.

ROBERTSON-SHIPMATE Circle 4 on Reader Service Card Robertson-Shipmate, Inc., recently introduced a new microprocessor- controlled pilot, the AP-45, for commercial vessels and passenger boats. Keeping with the Robertson tradition, the AP-45 is simple to use. The set-up is menu-driven and is easily tailored to any vessel's individual steering characteristics.

The AP-45 has a second "automatic" mode. By pressing the "Work" button, the pilot is reprogrammed with an entirely different set of operating characteristics appropriate to different vessel configurations.

This "work" mode is used while the vessel is performing activities that require different operating parameters, such as net setting or trawling for fishing vessels, towing for tugs, or single engine trolling.

The AP-45 includes the new RF145 medium-duty waterproof rudder feedback unit, built-in, offcourse display and alarm, rate-ofturn control, and operates with virtually any magnetic or fluxgate compass input. Options include hand-held remotes, non-follow-up and follow-up steering levers, and a variety of rudder angle indicators.

S.P. RADIO Circle 9 0 on Reader Service Card Founded in 1946, S.P. Radio A/S of Denmark develops, produces and supplies the worldwide maritime market with a wide range of radio communication equipment. The company's latest introduction to the marine market is the Sailor Compact HF SSB Radiotelephone, the newest member of the Sailor Compact 2000 Program.

The compact Sailor system contains contains three main units—control unit RE2100, transmitter T2130, and aerial coupler AT2110—which can be mounted separately. The HF SSB Radiotelephone has continuous tuning and complete frequency coverage (RX:100 kHz-30 MHz, TX: 1.6-30 MHz) SSB (USB and LSB) and AM, and simplex/semiduplex.

The radiotelephone is supplied from 24 VDC, and connection to 12 VDC and 110/127/220/240 VAC is optional.

Each of the three units in the radiotelephone can be replaced without adjustment, and they all have built-in diagnostic test programs.

S.P. Radio reports that the Control Unit RE2100 has straight fprward key-in procedure and is incredibly easy to operate. It contains all ITU telephony channels, 100 operator-selected quick-select channels and 10 operator-programmed scanning programs with up to 128 channels in each.

Furthermore, the front panel is provided with adjustable night-time illumination and a bright and readable, highly effective LED-display, in which RX and TX frequencies are read-out at the same time.

The Control Unit RE2100 has BUS-output and input and is thus prepared for DSC (GMDSS), additional remote controls, Duplex, ARQ telex, scrambler, additional loudspeakers, personal computer, etc.

The Transmitter T2130 has 250w PEP output power and built-in power supply for 24 VDC. It is of modular construction, which provides easy installation and service— all connections are carried out to this part of the Sailor Compact HF SSB Radiotelephone.

The Aerial Coupler AT2110 is also a compact, sturdy unit. It is waterproof, highly efficient and features automatic tuning. Because it is light weight, the aerial coupler can be mounted at the base of the aerial.

It can be installed up to 100 meters from the transmitter.

SIMRAD SUBSEA C i r c l e 5 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd Simrad Subsea A/S has introduced a portable, low-cost Hydroacoustic Positioning System.

The rugged HPR 300P is tailormade for applications such as ROVtracking, tow-fishing-tracking and other survey operations where quick and easy mobilization is an advantage.

The system is also compatible with existing HPR transponder channels.

It is based on the super-short baseline technology used in the well-proven HPR 309 system. Only one small onboard transducer is necessary for positioning. The system has a built-in self-tester.

The portable transducer is omnidirectional with automatic roll and pitch compensation. It is a small, lightweight unit designed for hull installation as well as over-theside mounting.

Operator's instructions are displayed on the monitor, securing uncomplicated operation. All functions and parameters are controlled by a joystick from a standard color monitor. Standard monitors can be connected and used as remote displays.

SI-TEX C i r c l e 6 on Reader S e r v i c e C a rd SI-TEX Marine Electronics, Clearwater, Fla., has introduced two new Lorans for 1989. The two different receivers are designed for different levels of Loran-C involvement.

In a micro-compact case, the new XJ-1 features a 99-waypoint memory, 10 instant-position memories, ComPuNav navigation computer, automatic ASF corrections, magnetic compass compensation and four notch filters, plus a backlighted multi-line display and audible alrams for cross-track error, waypoint arrival and anchor-watch.

The new XJ-2 offers a 200-waypoint memory, 20 programmable auto-routes with up to 25 waypoints in each route. Waypoint sequencing can be totally automatic for all waypoints and routes can be run in both directions.

In the TD mode, position display accuracy is to 100th of a microsecond.

Automatic ASF corrections are derived from a data base of precision geodetic surveys and magnetic variation is automatically compensated.

Twelve RF filters eliminate noise and interference.

Five audible alarms signal waypoint arrival, corss-track error, perpendicular crossing, waypoint advance and anchor-watch drift limits.

Both the XJ-1 and XJ-2 have serial data outputs of NMEA 0180/ 0183 for interfacing with other electronics onboard.

As a bonus, both the XJ-1 and XJ-2 come complete with "Running The Numbers"—a 30-minute videotape of instructions on how to get the most out of the particular Loran you buy.

SPERRY MARINE C i r c l e 9 1 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd Sperry Marine's revolutionary new RASCAR (RASterscan Collision Avoidance Radar) is a series of radars and ARPAs designed to meet or exceed all SOLAS and type approval requirements for vessels in the 1,600 gt and above range.

All RASCAR models include CAS IV Collision Avoidance features.

The RASCAR model 3400M is a fully compliant, type-approved ARPA. All RASCARs have touchscreen control and very high resolution displays. The controls are logically grouped within the operator's main field of view.

The RASCAR series includes the model 2500C display—one of the first high resolution color displays for the large ship market. Color is used to sharpen the operator's comprehension of the displayed information distinguishing between various displayed features and to present the anti-collision situation clearly for rapid operator assessment.

According to Sperry Marine, the RASCAR follow's the company's new Product Standardization and Integration (PSI) philosophy. It can be installed conventionally as a "stand alone" system or together with other bridge equipment in an aesthetically pleasing Integrated Bridge system without expensive modification.

Sperry Marine reports that the receiver design includes a state-ofthe- art "low noise" front end and a Microwave Integrated Circuit (MIC). This gives the receiver twice the sensitivity of previous generations.

The Japanese Ministry of International Trade and Industry recently named Sperry Marine the winner of the "Good Design" Award for its new RASCAR Touchscreen Control Marine Radar/ARPA. The award has been presented annually for the last 31 years to the product which meets the highest standards of quality— appearance, function, safety, value and service.

STANDARD COMMUNICATIONS C i r c l e 7 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd Standard Communications, Los Angeles, Calif., describes its new Horizon Infinity VHF marine radio and LH10 loud hailer as "the most water-resistant radio and hailer on the market today." Available in rich black tones, these additions to Standard Communications full line of electronics offer excellent quality and performance.

The 25-watt Horizon Infinity, in addition to being extremely waterresistant, incorporates an ultra-sensitive GASFET receiver and more advanced scanning and program- ming. The unit features an easy-toread LCD display, built-in intercom and P/A and includes all U.S., international and Canadian channels.

Standard's Horizon LH10 loud hailer has an output of 30 watts of power and features listen-back, four fog horns, a four-station intercom, and other alarm signals. Attractive optional flush-mount systems are available for both units.

RACAL MARINE Racal Marine introduced one of the world's first production typeapproved color ARPAs, the model 2690 BT, which provides a 16-inch PPI equivalent scan on a 26-inch diagonal TV-type display.

Well-suited for deepsea vessels, the 2690 BT series ARPA and TM/ AC display are easy to operate with large, individual function control buttons. The basic radar controls on the upper panel follow standard Racal- Decca layout used in thousands of Master series 20-inch color radars already in use at sea.

The clear advantages of this system are its exceptionally bright color presentation of radar video, synthetic graphics and tote information on a 26-inch DSC display.

The 26-inch Racal Decca marine display has been specially designed to meet the requirement for a presentation that can be interpreted quickly and surely under all conditions.

Switchable color coding minimizes eyestrain by day or night and allows the display to be viewed conveniently under a variety of lighting conditions.

This easy-to-operate ARPA has a 20-track capacity with manual or automatic target acquisition. The unit's ARPA controls are located on the lower panel, arranged according to function in a logical layout.

In addition to their standard suites of eight video maps, the Racal- Decca 2690 BT series ARPAs can be supplied with an NMEA 0183 proprietary interface to a navigation system such as the Racal- Decca MNS 2000 or Decca Navigator Mark 53. This interface enables the operator to show on the ARPA range scales (1-1/2 to 24 nm) a graphic presentation of the voyage plan.

The same interface also enables the ARPA to receive from the associated navigation system a defined position in latitude and longitude, preset to correspond to the reference point around which one or more of the video maps in the ARPA memory has been constructed.

The ARPA can calculate the range and bearing of this point from the ship's position and thus provide automatic alignment of the video map.

C i r c l e 8 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd VESSEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Vessel Management Systems Company, Jeffersonville, Ind., has developed the Vessel Management System, an onboard and shore-side computerized tool for evaluating and improving towboat performance.

The Vessel Management System ™ (VMS) is comprised of a set of components that all interface, or may each work independently. One of the basic on-board components is the VMS module. It measures depth, engine rpms, shaft rpms, gallons per hour, speed over ground, speed through water, and other data, and computes cost per mile.

Then, using the same data, it calculates optimal gallons per hour. The captain then sets his throttles for that consumption rate and, according to the company, fuel costs fall.

There is another module (DEMA) that can automatically monitor up to 1,500 internal engine functions, alerting engineers to problems...and averting needless scheduled maintenance.

There is the Traffic Applications Processor—a personal computer and programs for on-board paperwork.

When linked with WATERCOM™, an inland marine industry direct-dial telephone system, it can give boat and home office modem communications capabilities.

WATERCOM also offers credit card calling, reduced nighttime and weekend rates, and consolidated billing.

There is the Traffic and Dispatch Manager software package, which— on a computer screen—takes barge type, shape, size, draft, pickup and drop-off points, towboat horsepower and other information, and helps managers design more efficient, more profitable tow configurations.

And there is the Towboat Operations Evaluation System, which collects, processes and analyzes trip information. It can provide facts about the performance of a single boat, a fleet—even the entire company.

Vessel Management Systems Co.

is a joint venture of Dundics Enterprises and Waterways Communications Systems, Inc., and was formed to market the Vessel Management System.

C i r c l e 1 1 2 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd Warren Offers Free Screw Pump Brochure An eight-page, four-color brochure detailing Warren's screw pump line is now available from the manufacturer. Designed for easy readability, the brochure contains data on 5 series in the line, including information on capacities, discharge pressures, and materials of construction, as well as product photographs.

Warren's screw pumps are ideal for a wide range of applications, including OEM, power, marine, petroleum refining, and chemical and petrochemical processing services.

Typical applications include cellulose acetate, spinning dope, coal tar, viscous polymers, corn syrup, hydraulic oil, barge unloading, and cargo pipe flushing. For unusual applications, Warren can develop special screw pump designs.

Warren Pumps is a leading manufacturer of rotary, reciprocating, and centrifugal pumps. Located in Warren, Mass., the company specializes in engineered pumps for the power, marine, chemical, and petroleum processing industries. Warren is also a leading manufacturer for the U.S. Navy.

For a free copy of the new screw pump brochure from Warren, C i r c l e 5 7 o n R e a d e r S e r v i c e C a rd