Marine telematics systems are revolutionizing the boating,
shipping, recreational fishing and commercial fishing industries.
Marine telematics involves the use of wireless voice and data
communication systems which provide vessel tracking, emergency
aid, system monitoring, internet access, and other features.
Systems normally consist of a user interface, satellite
antenna, and a communication link with the vessel’s electronic
systems. This technology can be vital to the user since it
provides a satellite link to the outside world when other
communications may unavailable.
Several companies have entered the marine telematics market,
including, Sea Key, SeaCom, Boatracs and others.
The Sea Key press release describes their system -
"SeaKey telematics integrate Global Positioning System
technologies with electronic mapping and mobile communications to
monitor and provide important boat data from port, land or sea.
The first satellite communications system designed specifically
for the marine industry, SeaKey provides a safer and more
enjoyable boating experience for all, with 24-hour service and
customer support.
Installed in more than 8,000 boats across North America,
SeaKey has received wide acclaim from prominent boat builders and
boat owners alike. SeaKey offers an array of services that cater
to boat security, boater safety, and boating enjoyment ––
including an advanced emergency messaging system that can pinpoint
a distressed boat’s location offshore. SeaKey can also alert boat
owners to potential problems when they are not using their boats,
such as low battery voltage or water intrusion in the bilge. In
addition, SeaKey has a proven record of assisting law enforcement
agencies in tracking and recovering stolen boats, offering boat
owners a new level of security and safety.
SeaKey concierge services are available to all SeaKey
customers. Knowledgeable operators are on duty 24 hours a day,
seven days a week, to help with any reasonable request including
dock reservations, weather information, fueling, car rental, and
repair information and assistance. All SeaKey services are
provided on an unlimited basis to its customers for a low fixed
monthly fee."
Delphi is manufacturing components for the startup company
SeaCom. - Delphi describes the project as “These devices
are being designed to provide emergency communications between
boaters and Seacom's rescue center using the ORBCOMM satellite
network”…….the system will provide
"detailed messages, including information on GPS position and
other critical parameters, between watercraft and the dedicated
maritime rescue coordination center. This data is intended to help
rescue agencies locate a vessel and respond appropriately during
an emergency.”
SeaCom will initially market the service recreational boat
owners and insurers as a safety and communication device for
watercraft. Users on land will be able to track the location and
status of the equipped boat.
Boatracs, another wireless maritime information system company,
markets products approved by the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) to provide Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) services to
commercial fishing vessels in the Northeast region. The system
includes GPS, two-way communications and e-mail. A network
operations center provides continuous support.
The term Vessel Monitoring System, or VMS, refers to a wireless
information system that automatically reports fishing vessel
position and activity to NMFS.
Links
Sea Key North America
Delphi
Boatracs
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