Archive for December 2007

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• 21 December 2007
  IC-M411 – A Compact, Waterproof Icom VHF/DSC at an Unbeatable Price
  

  The IC-M411 is a compact waterproof VHF/DSC radio that is ideal for small boats or where space is at a premium. Despite its size it has a large speaker grille, which gives excellent audio quality. The buttons and display have been designed to be easy to see in poor lighting conditions.

  The IC-M411 and microphone are waterproof to IPX7 and can withstand submersion in up to 1m depth of water for 30 minutes. The set features an Aquaquake draining function. If water gets into the speaker grill and muffles the speaker’s audio, the Aquaquake draining function emits a buzzing sound which sheds water from the speaker system, assuring you sharp, clear communications even in the worst conditions.

  The IC-M411 is easy to use and easy to see. The large LCD shows its full sized channel number and 10 character scrolling channel comment clearly and the 4 levels of back lighting on the LCD makes the screen easy to see in all conditions. 9 clearly labelled buttons, which are backlit, are well spaced for user friendly operation.

  The “Distress” button is covered with a spring loaded plastic cover to prevent accidental distress call activation. The supplied remote function microphone allows you to select channels and change output power directly.

  The IC-M411 has all the features that you would expect from an Icom Marine VHF including dual watch and Tri-watch functions, 70 programmable channels with UK marina channels included. A Favourite channel function allows for quick channel selection so that you can set the “Tag” channel to the channels used most often. When pushing the up/down buttons on the hand microphone, only the tagged channels are selected, while untagged channels are skipped.

  Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom UK (www.icomuk.co.uk) said, ‘The IC-M411 DSC/VHF is a competitively priced transceiver that is compact in size, easy to use and has excellent receiver sensitivity and speaker audio. Its affordability makes it an ideal purchase for a small boat owner or those who want an uncomplicated set.’

  The IC-M411 will be launched on the Icom stand SO18A at the London Boat Show 2008 to be held at Excel.

• 18 December 2007
  Greenham Regis to Show Yacht Controller at the London Boat Show 2008.
  

  Yacht Controller, the Hand Held Wireless Remote Control for your Boat’s Engines and Thrusters, is to make its UK debut at the Collins Stewart London Boat Show 2008.  The product will be displayed on  Greenham Regis Stand (www.greenham-regis.com), SO11B.

  All boat users experience difficulties anchoring or mooring, especially if you’re shorthanded or with inexperienced crew.  The problem is, you really need to be in two places at once.  Yacht Controller gives you complete freedom of movement around the boat – no wires to tangle up or trip over.  Pick up a buoy effortlessly, easy dockside manoeuvring.

  The wireless remote gives you control at your fingertips over your engines, bow and stern thrusters and anchor windlass allowing you to stand in the best position so you can see clearly while manoeuvring.

  Yacht Controller (www.yachtcontroller.co.uk) is suitable for all boats with electronic engine controls. Models for single and twin engines, with or without bow/stern thrusters are available.

• 18 December 2007
  New VHF range from Lowrance
  

  Lowrance has announced an all-new line of marine VHF radios. Leading the rollout program are the fixed mount LVR-880 and LVR-250 radios, offering both innovative capabilities and competitive pricing. 

  The new Lowrance LVR-880 is the first powerful, fixed-mount, DSC-equipped 25/1-watt radio to offer dual VHF and FM radio capabilities with built-in waypoint navigation and MOB tracking. The VHF also integrates NMEA-2000 with Class D DSC for distress and ‘buddy-tracking’ features when connected to a compatible Lowrance GPS chartplotter.

  The exclusive ‘buddy-tracking’ feature uses DSC position polling to locate up to three pre-set Lowrance LCX, LMS or GlobalMap units connected to LVR-880s or 250s and show their GPS positions, a valuable safety aid in the event of poor visibility or passage-making after dark.  The LVR-880 includes an intercom capability, 22-watt hailer / horn, an extra-large 64 x 128 FSTN segmented display with backlighting, and a 6-key speaker microphone for left- or right-handed use. The LVR-880 is compatible with all USA, Canadian, International and weather marine channels with channel naming, and is waterproof to IPX7, features NOAA tone alert and S.A.M.E. country-by-country weather alert.

  The new LVR-250 25/1-watt, fixed-mount VHF radio with DSC also delivers the same high quality and many of the same features at an exceptional price. Featuring all USA, Canadian and International marine channels, the LVR-250 comes with Class D DSC connectivity for distress calling, a local/distant feature to eliminate unwanted interference, a 6-key speaker microphone for left- or right-handed use and 10 weather channels with 1050-hz alert tone detect.

• 2 December 2007
  The New ES LoadBank – Optimising Generator loading for Superyachts
  

  Energy Solutions showcased their new ES LoadBank at METS 2007.  Designed for optimising generator loading in Superyachts, response to the units was positive from engineers and owners alike.

  The positivity stems from the problematic issue of sizing generators for super and mega yachts. This is notoriously difficult because of the large variations in onboard power requirements between seasons, times of the day and periods with and without guests. This leads to substantial swings in power requirements traditionally leaving the generators operating lightly loaded in the lows. The problem with this is that in order to get the maximum life expectancy from a generator it should ideally run at sufficient load to ensure clean running. When a generator runs under capacity it’s working life is cut short and the generator runs with soot emissions.

  The ES LoadBank addresses this problem directly, it is a sophisticated generator loading system that ensures that a sufficient base load is applied to the generator at all times. 

  Energy Solutions’ in-house design and engineering team have developed the new ES LoadBank using their extensive knowledge of the superyacht market. Manufacturing the units at their UK headquarters they have developed optional extras to be used with the LoadBank such as the LCD Touch Control Panel. This can go in the yacht’s control room to allow remote monitoring of all aspects of the LoadBank set up and status.

  Energy Solutions Managing Director Paul Holland concludes: “We are delighted with the response so far to the ES LoadBank. We see it as an integral part of the engine fit for superyachts and as such offer extensive world-wide technical support with each unit. Part of that service is to undertake a complete technical and installation consultation, giving on-site assessment and evaluation to ensure smooth installation.”

  The ES LoadBank is available directly from Energy Solutions Tel.00 44 1634 290772 or email sales@energy-solutions.co.uk.

• 2 December 2007
  Energy Solutions launch their on-line marine power retail site www.es-store.co.uk
  

  Energy Solutions, the leading distributor for marine power and control products, have just launched their new on-line retail shop to help make buying their boxed goods even faster and simpler for private customers.

  Explains Managing Director Paul Holland: “Our existing website is excellent for our trade customers but we realised that we need something more for the private clients that we deal with. Our new retail site is designed to make it easier for them to see the products we have in stock, order from us at any time that suits them, and get free delivery anywhere in the UK.”

  The website, www.es-store.co.uk, also allows them to see latest product information, order product catalogues and read up on industry developments.

  Concludes Paul:  “The new site allows us to quickly show our customers our entire boxed product ranges, not just from our key supplier such as Victron and Aqualuma but also our own manufactured goods, such as our ESP panels. With competitive pricing and technical back up it gives them a comprehensive, 24/7 service.”

• 2 December 2007
  The New H3000 30/30 Mast Display from B&G
  

  Delivering easy to read data for 50ft+ cruisers and racers B&G,  has launched its brand new mast display to further complement its H3000 range.  The 30/30 mast display follows the traditions of rugged, large screen displays that B&G is famous for, but introduces new technology to the mix. The 30/30 is the first mast display from any manufacturer to feature bonded screen technology, which eliminates misting and at the same time provides unmatched viewing clarity from a distance.

  The combination of clear large format digits, simple layout and bonded screens means that with a 30/30 on the mast, users can be sure that vital instrument data is always in sight.

  “B&G mast displays are iconic. They are there for all to see on the world’s fastest and most famous yachts so we have to be right on the money when we develop a new model,” comments Richard Acland, Managing Director, B&G. “When designing the 30/30 it was vital, as with the entire H3000 solution, that we utilised the best technology to get the best performance. In using bonded screen technology, we have achieved this and introduced something completely new to the market.”

  The 30/30 will find a home on racing and cruising yachts of 50ft+. This new, cutting edge display sits in size between the 20/20 and 40/40 displays already available from B&G. All three mast displays integrate seamlessly with both the new B&G H3000 instrument system and existing H2000 systems.

  “The introduction of H3000 early in 2007 was a landmark event. It was the first time we have launched an entire instrument range in 10 years and B&G users have supported us throughout. We continue to develop H3000 so expect to see more additions, like the 30/30, to the range in the future,” says Acland.

  www.navico.com

• 2 December 2007
  Fairline fit ES DockPower Isolation Transformer as standard on the Targa 64
  

  Fairline Boats PLC are now fitting the new ES DockPower isolation transformer as standard on their Targa 64 model.   The ES DockPower Isolation Transformer allows Fairline yacht owners to bring two shorepower leads onto their Targa 64 and combine them into a single supply to feed all of the boat’s power loads. 

  Designed and manufactured in the UK by Energy Solutions, the ES DockPower range was developed to meet many of the difficulties faced by boat builders and yacht owners. The units provide enough power to operate domestic systems on boats fitted with additional features such as air conditioning and electric galleys which have previously been a challenge for conventional power systems.

  Energy Solutions’ Managing Director Paul Holland is delighted with the integration:  “We have worked alongside Fairline to ensure perfect fit of DockPower into their build and development. From the core model we have integrated some AC switch gear into the DockPower to reduce installation time on the production line.”

  The ES DockPower is supplied in 4 versions for area compatibility:
  2 x 32 amp (European)
  2 x 50 amp (USA)
  2 x 63 amp (European)
  2 x 100 amp (USA)

• 2 December 2007
  DIGITAL YACHT’S NEW SMARTERTRACK AIT250, A GREAT VALUE CLASS B AIS TRANSPONDER – BE SEEN AND HEARD AT SEA
  

  Digital Yacht has introduced a new Class B AIS Transponder suitable for use on leisure and small commercial vessels.  Called the SMARTERTrack AIT250, it incorporates an AIS transmitter as well as receiver, allowing your vessel’s position, identity and track to be relayed to other vessels equipped with AIS equipment.

  Class A AIS is now mandatory on all vessels over 300 GRT and any commercial passenger carrying vessel.  The system automatically sends a ship’s identity, position, course and speed to other vessels equipped with either an AIS transponder or receiver.  As such, the system greatly improves both onboard security and safety as well as aiding navigation with a detailed plot of nearby vessels overlaid on to an electronic chart.  Class B AIS operates in a similar way but is intended for non-mandatory fitting and is ideal for use on yachts or power boats.

  The AIT250 incorporates a dual channel AIS receiver picking up signals from nearby targets as well as a transmitter which sends the yacht’s position.  A GPS receiver is built in and the unit allows direct connection to an onboard PC or plotter for a graphical plot of other nearby vessels.  It comes complete with a GPS antenna and a compact VHF antenna, and is suitable for DIY installation.  Using an industry standard NMEA 0183 interface, it works well with most leading brands of chart plotter, including Raymarine, Furuno, Garmin and Standard Horizon.  The built-in GPS can also be used as a secondary GPS if necessary.

  Whilst seeing the position of nearby vessels greatly aids navigation, being seen by other vessels equipped with AIS greatly improves safety and security and minimises the risk of collision.  What’s more, most Port Authorities are now equipped with AIS monitoring systems so that they can track harbour and port movements more effectively.  Class B AIS transponders still output all the relevant data such as boat identity, course, speed and position.  The data is only sent every 30 seconds to avoid the system becoming congested with too many leisure users in busy areas.  The system operates globally.

  Priced at £499 including VAT, and including the relevant antennas, the system is available from Digital Yacht, at www.digitalyacht.co.uk

• 2 December 2007
  Lowrance plotters go Platinum
  

  Lowrance has announced that its full range of 2008 chartplotter and combo units will be compatible with Navionics’ acclaimed Platinum multi-dimensional electronic charts.
  Models from the 2007 ranges will also be able to take full advantage of the Navionics Platinum functionality, with Lowrance firmware upgrades to run Navionics Platinum available as free downloads from the Lowrance website starting in January 2008. This will include all 2007 Lowrance LCX, LMS and GlobalMap colour models with 5”, 7”, 8.4” and 10.4” displays.

  “The addition of the Navionics Platinum cartography option offers best-in-class 3-dimensional map implementation to our customers,” said Gordon Sprouse, Director of Marketing at Lowrance. “By including Platinum for use on our full range of products, especially on the highly-popular 5” colour display models, we are serving the best interests of our loyal user base.”

  Navionics Platinum charts combine huge XL3-size coverage areas of coastal and offshore waters with 3-dimensional bathymetric views and detailed aerial photography of thousands of harbours. The ability to view 3D depth contours and navigational features from a range of perspectives and ranges gives the navigator unprecedented understanding of his position relative to his surroundings. In addition an integral coastal pilot book includes an enhanced services guide with full details of all the facilities available at harbours and ports.

  These spectacular charts represent the future of electronic charting, and Lowrance plotters are undoubtedly the best platform on which to see them at their best.

  www.navico.com

• 2 December 2007
  Energy Solutions bring Touch Screen Power Control to life with Sheerline Boats
  

  Launched at Southampton Boat Show 07 was the exciting result of Energy Solutions work with Sheerline on their 1020 cruiser. Using E-Plex multiplexing technology Energy Solutions worked closely with Sheerline to address their customers’ requirements for more functionality to their on board systems, whilst  reducing the company’s cabling and build costs.

  The innovative E-Plex system fitted uses a central touch sensitive controller with dot matrix display to control equipment and collect information from modules around the boat. All the devices are connected with a simple twisted pair cable.  Sheerline have added an optional touch screen colour LCD display to provide a true window on the system.

  The system can control and protect dc and ac circuits, monitor tanks and interface with other equipment making it the broadest multiplex platform on the market.

  For owners the contemporary, simple interface is a real wow factor on board the vessel.  A 10 inch LCD screen operates the vessel’s entire range of electrics with innovative touches such as the one-button “on board” feature, which allows owners to activate all the boats electrical systems to pre-set levels with just one touch.

  Working with leading boat builders Energy Solutions offers a full consultation, design and engineering package to bring innovative touch screen control systems and glass bridge solutions to life. Reducing build costs and installation times in the process.  Sheerline are delighted with the system which has taken one week out of their usual three week installation time, and the system will be standard on future specified 1020 cruisers. 

  Concludes Energy Solutions’ Managing Director Paul Holland: “This is an exciting time for our touch screen solutions, as they answer so many requirements from boat builders and owners -  a sleek, efficient way to monitor and control your on-board systems.”

  Further background information for Energy Solutions and E-Plex at www.energy-solutions.co.uk

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