Would you like Navtex capability, without having to install a specialist Navtex receiver? A new gadget introduced by Marine Electronic Services could be just what you are looking for.
The Wetterbox WIB2 Navtex Black Box Receiver is about the size of a packet of cigarettes and incorporates an internal Navtex Receiver and PC interface.
The Wetterbox (the name comes from the German word for weather) receives both Navtex frequencies - 490KHz and 518KHz - simultaneously, and the internal batteries are said to last for approximately three days.
To read messages, the unit is connected via USB directly to a PC and the data is displayed in Internet Explorer. This means there is no special software to install on the PC, allowing the unit to be used in Internet cafés or on any laptop. No connection to the Internet is required.
When connected to a PC, the internal battery recharges, or alternatively, an optional 12V/24V DC or 230V AC charger is available.
The unit has internal memory for up to 762000 characters that would typically be several weeks' worth of transmissions from any one station. It can be used on board, at home or in the office.
It is ideal for charter users, delivery crews, or anyone who wants up-to-date weather and nav information on any boat they sail on.
The unit is priced at £195.95 inc VAT, and is available directly from Marine Electronic Services Ltd.
For more information visit www.mesltd.co.uk
What is Navtex?
Navtex is a system for the broadcast and automatic reception of maritime safety information by means of a narrow-band direct-printing telegraphy. Navtex provides shipping with navigational and meteorological warnings and urgent information through automatic printouts either as a paper feed or on screen from a dedicated receiver.
Navtex is a component of the IMO/IHO Worldwide Navigational Warning Service (WWNWS). It has also been included as an element of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). Since 1 August 1993, Navtex receiving capability has become part of the mandatory equipment that is required to be carried in certain vessels under the provisions of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).
How does it Work?
Navtex transmissions are sent via a medium wave frequency from localized stations situated worldwide. The power of each transmission is regulated so as to avoid the possibility of interference between transmitters. Users can set their Navtex receivers to receive specific message types and reject others.
Messages such as navigational and meteorological warnings and search and rescue information are non-rejectable to ensure that ships equipped with Navtex always receive the most vital information. Users can choose to receive information from the single transmitter that serves the sea area around their position, or from a number of transmitters.
Typical range is up to 400NM. Two frequencies are utilised 518KHz and 490KHz. The 490KHz frequency is used for local language transmissions as all Navtex messages are broadcast in plain English. The 490KHz frequency in the UK is used for a specialised leisure "inshore" forecast - supplementing the data available on 518KHz
Navtex coverage
Navtex messages are transmitted worldwide from local stations. The number of stations grows month by month. Information about all known Navtex stations can be found in nautical almanacs or on the Internet. There is no charge to receive a Navtex broadcast other than the cost of the receiver.
