Practical, affordable radar
Common sense tells us we need to be peripherally aware of what is occurring on the water around us, whether we are hugging the shore or undertaking a major offshore passage.
Emergency VHF hand-held radios
Losing your floating castle is the worst fear you can face as an offshore sailor.
AIS versus radar
The current overlap of radar and automatic identification system (AIS) technology leaves sailors on small oceangoing craft in a quandary: Which is the more sensible system in terms of initial cash outlay, amperage use and overall service in ensuring safety and security?
Man-overboard devices with AIS gaining in popularity
As the automatic identification system continues to work its way into the recreational boating world, more safety and rescue devices are being equipped with the technology.
Reducing radio interference
It sounds like a crude form of Morse code on your single sideband transceiver. The interfering signal is strong enough to disrupt fax reception, render voice reception unintelligible and bring your onboard email to a halt.
Marine high-frequency single sideband radio, Part II
In my last Web Exclusive, we talked in general about the many uses of Marine HF-SSB radio and we will now get specific about one of the premiere transceivers available to the yachtsman and recreational boaters, the ICOM IC-M802.
Marine high-frequency single sideband uses, Part 1
Bluewater sailors need to consider HF-SSB as a serious option for their long-range communications.
Maritime technology vs. safety
The modern yacht has more in common with the fictitious Starship Enterprise then it has with seagoing vessels of just a decade ago. This is due to the rapid and complete proliferation of computerized electronics and their networking together to provide unparalleled monitoring, control, and informational display systems.
Your iPad as a musical instrument
Believe it or not, a transoceanic sailboat and an interplanetary manned spacecraft on its way to Mars share two important factors in common: limited space, and extreme isolation.
Hands-on with Garmin electronics
I recently had the opportunity for a great voyaging adventure and thought I could mix a little business with pleasure by reporting on my experience with some new Garmin electronics.
Proper storage and disposal of batteries
As sailors we realize that one important issue in today's world of portable electronics is the proper storage and disposal of batteries.
Smartphone VHF
More and more sailors are relying on smartphone and tablet applications to do everything from getting weather, plotting courses, and even inventorying their gear.
