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?
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.
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.
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.
Bluewater sailors need to consider HF-SSB as a serious option for their long-range communications.
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.
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.
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.
As sailors we realize that one important issue in today's world of portable electronics is the proper storage and disposal of batteries.
More and more sailors are relying on smartphone and tablet applications to do everything from getting weather, plotting courses, and even inventorying their gear.
Meeting the challenge of recharging handheld devices afloat
