Archive for July 2009

« Previous Entries
• 29 July 2009
  Sign up to BMEA Direct – The On-line Journal of the British Marine Electronic Association
  

  The British Marine Electronic Association (BMEA), one of the largest and most proactive associations within the British Marine Federation (BMF) is to launch a new on-line journal called BMEA Direct which will feature articles about the latest developments in the maritime electronics industry.

  The online journal is to be published quarterly and will be distributed to all members of the BMEA, including dealers, retailers, manufacturers, distributors and others involved in the design, manufacturing, sales, installation and service of high quality marine electronics for recreational boating and the commercial maritime marketplace.

  The new on-line journal will offer a variety of topics including news from the BMEA itself, developments about its training schemes, industry news, in-depth articles, company profiles and details about the latest products in the market.

  If you or your colleagues would like to receive this journal please click here.  If you would like to contribute articles to the online journal please contact Ian Lockyer (BMEA Marketing) at marketing@bmea.org

• 29 July 2009
  Cowes Week Radio Communications, Officially Supplied by Icom UK
  

  Since 1826 Cowes Week has played a key part in the British sporting summer calendar and is one of the UK’s longest running and most successful sporting events. It now stages up to 40 daily races for around 1,000 boats and is the largest sailing regatta of its kind in the world. Radio communication supplier, Icom UK is proud to be the official radio communication supplier to Cowes Week, continuing its long association with the event. Over a period of eight years, the company has supplied a range of VHF marine radio equipment to the organisers to help ensure that the event is one of the best-managed sailing regattas in the world.

  The Icom radio equipment is primarily used to provide communication between race officers both on and offshore allowing them to co-ordinate race starts, set courses and marshal the competitors. The radios are also used for other tasks such as communicating with other vessels (including commercial shipping and ferries) and arranging for collection of VIP’s. The Icom radios are also used to communicate details of courses and starting signals to competitors at the regatta who start each day either from the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) or in the Solent from a committee boat.

  Stuart Quarrie, CEO of Cowes Week Limited comments: ‘We have a wide range of Icom radio equipment that we use during Cowes Week. The handheld sets are invaluable pieces of equipment used by the race management team as well as by our beachmasters and launch service co-ordinators. They are also act as a backup for castle 1 & 2 calling stations.’

  Two of the radios in use on the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) platform are Icom base stations. They have a special private channel comprising the normal international shore station transmit frequency for channel 28 as both transmit and receive. During a start sequence, the RYS platform transmits to the competitors on this frequency and also to a committee boat at the far end of the start line. The courses (and any other information) are then transmitted back to the platform from the committee vessel, again using the simplex channel 28. This means that the competitors receive the course details sent to them twice, on a frequency that they cannot interrupt.

  As you can imagine, managing racing for around 1,000 boats is no mean feat. This is why the fixed radios are installed onboard the race committees’ fleet of RIBS and are integral in assisting the marshalling. The radios assist the organisers in making sure that boats get to the starting line on time and that none have infringed any rules.

  Paul Crabb has responsibility for managing the equipment that ensures Cowes Week runs smoothly. He has designed and produced two fully portable IC-M505 VHF/DSCs which have been made using heavy duty, waterproof, allegedly indestructible Peli-cases. Each box has been modified by cutting the lid (as you would a dashboard) to accept the IC-M505 which has then been bracketed and silicon sealed in. The side of the box has also been fitted with a power and antenna connector, so the unit could remain closed and waterproof whilst working. To avoid any possible confusion, one set is in a silver box and fitted with the simplex half of channel 27) whilst the other set is in gold box fitted with P1 (the private half of channel 28) to avoid any possible confusion. Both sets are powered by motorcycle batteries.

  When asked about the importance of an organised radio communication infrastructure, Paul Crabb responds: ‘With the huge amount of activity on and off the water it is important that we have defined procedures, organised infrastructure and good quality communications; we get all of this from our work with Icom.’

  He added, ‘Good quality service backup is an absolute priority. Icom deliver this in an exemplary manner that is second to none. As an ex service engineer I can’t praise this highly enough.

  http://www.icomuk.co.uk

• 29 July 2009
  Mastervolt Introduces New Slimline Compressed AGM Batteries
  

  Mastervolt has recently introduced the new SlimLine range of AGM batteries.  Taking up to 30% less space and weighing up to 15% less than traditional lead-acid types, the Mastervolt SlimLine batteries deliver a high discharge rate with a low internal resistance, which make them ideal as a multi-purpose battery, especially for service, engine start or hybrid applications. 

  Designed for years of total reliability in the harsh marine environment, the SlimLine batteries are completely maintenance-free, and thanks to a sealed case, they can be installed in virtually any orientation.

  Utilizing cutting-edge valve regulated lead acid (VRLA) technology, and constructed with advanced compressed plates and porous AGM separators, the Mastervolt SlimLine batteries offer high capacity in a much smaller footprint. The terminals are protected M6 threaded stud inserts, so they can also be easily linked together, and rack mounted or placed into battery boxes.

  ‘When it comes to batteries, our customers’ main concerns are about space and weight,’ said Marc Persoon, Marketing Manager of Mastervolt International BV. ‘The new SlimLine range answers those concerns, offering a lot more battery capacity per square centimetre. This development is another example of Mastervolt responding to feedback from the customer.’

  The Mastervolt SlimLine batteries are all 12-volt units, and available in capacities of 115, 150 and 185 Amp Hours. They feature a narrow shape, with typical dimensions of 560mm (22”) in length, and 110 -126mm (4.3”- 5”) in width. The tallest battery is 280mm (11”).  They weigh between 35.6 -54Kg (78lbs – 119lbs). 

  For more information about the new SlimLine AGM batteries, including where you can buy them, visit the Mastervolt website at www.mastervolt.com.

• 29 July 2009
  Training is on Raymarine’s radar
  

  Following on from their recent successful radar training events, Raymarine is pleased to announce four new dates for the autumn.  The first courses will take place on the 30 and 31 October at Mylor Yacht Club in Falmouth, Cornwall.  Alan Watson will once again be delivering the course with support from local Raymarine service agent, BT Marine. Further courses are also scheduled at The Royal Norfolk & Suffolk Yacht Club on the 13 and 14 November, and will be delivered by Norfolk Marine.

  The courses focus on helping attendees gain a greater understanding of radar, with technical advice and demonstrations on how the Raymarine multifunction displays work with radar and AIS inputs. Understanding how to interpret images shown on screen will prove useful even for experienced radar users.  With each delegate benefiting from the use of a Raymarine multifunction display this will ensure plenty of “hands-on” experience.

  The day long course costs £85.00 + VAT per person which includes lunch as well as morning coffee and afternoon tea.

  The training days are being offered to a maximum of 15 people per course and must be pre-booked online at www.raymarine.co.uk/training

• 29 July 2009
  Icom UK,“Official Radio Communications Supplier” to Ramsgate Week 2009
  

  Icom are proud to be named the”Official Radio Communications Suppliers” to the Royal Temple Yacht Club (RTYC) and their annual regatta; Ramsgate Week 2009. The regatta has been a feature of the town’s calendar for over 110 years and attracts approximately 100 boats from Great Britain and the continent.

  Icom UK will be supplying the regatta with IC-M31 Marine Handheld VHF Transceivers, which will be used by the safety fleet and on shore organisers in the management of Ramsgate Week. Organised by the Royal Temple Yacht Club, it is the third largest international regatta in the UK, featuring about 100 boats from Great Britain and overseas.

  The IC-M31s will be the primary means of communication for the race management team, race control and safety fleet. The Icom handhelds will be used to oversee events both on and off the water, and will also be used to respond quickly and efficiently to any emergencies that may arise.

  The 2009 racing programme has been amended to provide a gap between the end of Cowes Week and the start of Ramsgate Week. The event will benefit from expert international Racing Officers, a results office and jury room set up by the marina, and a waterside marquee with après sail drinks and entertainment every evening. There is also of host of trophies to be awarded including the coveted Gold Cup and the QEII cup, the only yachting cup ever to be presented by the Queen.

• 17 July 2009
  Industry Awards to be announced at BMEA Annual Conference
  

  The British Marine Electronics Association is pleased to announce that it is now organising 3 industry awards which will be announced at the annual BMEA Conference that will take place on Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 at the Novotel Hotel in Southampton.

  The three awards, which the BMEA will be promoting, are:

  • BMEA Waterside Dealer of the Year Award sponsored by Garmin UK ltd
  • BMEA Product of the Year Award sponsored by Boating Business
  • BMEA Newly  Certified Technician of the Year Award sponsored by Raymarine plc

  Ian Lockyer (BMEA Marketing) said, ’Our customers will have the opportunity to choose the industry’s dealer and product of the year by simply going to http://www.bmea.org/bmea-dealer-and-product-of-the-year/ and voting.’  The ‘BMEA New technician of the Year Award’ will be chosen from a shortlist of newly certificated engineers across the industry.  A panel of industry experts will choose the winner.

  Ian said, ’when the customer clicks through to this poll they will find two sections.  Firstly there will be a list of BMEA waterside dealers from across the UK.  Secondly there will be a list of products submitted by Manufacturers or national distributors.’

  He added, ’it really is up to customers to ask themselves what electronic/electrical product has been really good value for money or innovative from the submitted list? They also need to decide which company/sole trader has given then exceptional service during the 2009 season.’

  The winners of all three awards will be announced at this BMEA Conference that will take place on Wednesday, October 21st 2009 at the Novotel Hotel in Southampton.

  Ian Lockyer, BMEA Marketing said, ’the Association is moving forward with a lot of interesting developments including revitalising their training schemes.  Recognising new technicians is very important as they are the future of our industry.

• 17 July 2009
  Updated VAT advice for BMF members
  

  The latest VAT newsletter from the BMF VAT consultant has been published on the BMF member part of the website; this gives updates on the Budget, new measures relating to intra-EU transactions, changes to the partial exemption Standard Method and the Tour Operators Margin Scheme (which may be applicable to any business that buys in or sells on accommodation or travel).

  Members can also download the latest HMR briefing note on VAT – ‘Dutch Barges’ and similar vessels designed for and used as permanent residential accommodation by owners.

  Contact details for our BMF Consultant are available on the webpage.

  To find out more please access the members area of the BMF site.

• 17 July 2009
  Scanstrut Presented with Queen’s Award for Enterprise
  

  Totnes based company Scanstrut Ltd, designer and manufacturer of installation solutions for marine electronics, were recently awarded their 2009 Queen’s Award for Enterprise by Devon’s Lord-Lieutenant Eric Dancer in a mark of honour from the Queen.

  Scanstrut joins an elite group of companies in winning The Queen’s Award which puts them amongst the most successful of UK businesses. Awarded for outstanding performance in International sales, the assessment process is extremely rigorous with only a handful of the very best UK companies succeeding.

• 17 July 2009
  Combined armed forces Round the World sailing expedition sets off with Raymarine products on board
  

  International marine electronics manufacturer Raymarine has announced it is supporting the British Services Exercise Transglobe 2009-2010.  The tri-services round the World expedition comprises three 20 m (67 feet) yachts, each crewed by members of the Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force.  The expedition has fully equipped its three yachts – Adventure, Discoverer and Challenger – with an integrated suite of Raymarine products including radar, chartplotter and instruments. 

  The 13-stage expedition departed from Gosport on Saturday 11 July, and has crew changes in destination ports around the world including Lanzarote, Rio de Janeiro, Cape Town, Perth, Sydney, Hobart, Auckland, Montevideo, Antigua, Charleston and Boston.  Over 500 crew will participate in the 12-month expedition, which is designed to develop their personal qualities and team skills in an extremely challenging environment. 

  As well as battling against the elements, the expedition is encouraging a spirit of “Corinthian competition” between the Services on several of the legs.  All three boats will also compete against some of the best sailors in the world in two high profile events – the Sydney to Hobart race, and Antigua Race Week.  

  During the expedition, the crew will include service personnel recently returned from tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.  As part of an initiative called Battle Back, this will also include service personnel recovering from wounds received in recent military operations and some medical support staff, all from Headley Court and the Help for Heroes initiative.  

  Fiona Pankhurst, Head of Corporate Marketing and PR at Raymarine, “We are delighted to be involved with this expedition, and to have our products sailed and raced around the world.  With such a large number of crew change overs during the race, it is vital that the navigation products they are using are tough, durable and easy to use, especially for those with little knowledge of sailing.  And with the added element of racing against each other and in international events, they are going to be relying on getting the best data for planning routes, knowing the wind and tides, and maximising their chances of winning.”

  Each boat is equipped with an integrated navigation suite comprising Raymarine instrumentation, and two E120 multifunction displays, with chart plotting and radar capabilities.  The system repeats all data below deck, enabling the navigator or crew to see vital information at all times. 

  With its global customer base and network of distributors, Raymarine will be closely involved with Exercise Transglobe as it circumnavigates the world.

• 12 July 2009
  Icom Support the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy
  

  The Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA) is receiving support for the next five years from Icom, worldwide manufacturers of high quality radio communications. WPNSA will be supplied with IC-M71 VHF hand portable radios and IC-F110M base stations together with ongoing technical support and additional equipment when required for major events.

  The Icom radio equipment will be essential in the running of high profile international dinghy, yacht and windsurfing events as well as an important element in safety precautions for grass roots level sailing. The new radios will be put to good use on the water during 2009 when the Academy will be hosting three National and three World Championships. The radios will be also be used to manage the Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta, two yacht racing regattas and numerous training camps as well as local racing at a range of levels.

  The latest enhancements to the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy are now complete with 220 metres of slipway and 125 pontoon berths. Due to the sheer size of the site the new equipment with also aid on shore logistics and effective communication on the water for the event organisers.

  Chris Knight, Business Manager of the WPNSA commented, ‘With the high volume of activity at the Sailing Academy we need dependable radio equipment which provides reliable communications in the marine environment. The WPNSA Team are pleased to have the welcome support of Icom’s radio equipment which fits our exacting requirements and will be used daily running high profile dinghy, yacht and windsurfing events’.

« Previous Entries

You are here: News » Archive for July 2009