Anything can happen out on the water. Thankfully, two-way radios offer marine solutions to keep your crew safe, well-connected, and prepared to respond to an emergency. To keep vessels and the lives they transport as safe as possible, there are several systems and technologies working together for both ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications. 

By improving upon the storage and exchange of information, including administrative, commercial, technical, navigational, and environmental information, the overall autonomy of ships and their adaptability increases as well. Ultimately, this leads to greater safety, security and efficiency.

Why Two Way Radios are Used Out at Sea

Two-way radios are used for marine communication because they help resolve several common issues faced when trying to communicate on-board a ship, including:

Battery Life

Digital transmissions utilize less energy and that means radios stay powered on for longer. This is important for long shifts, as well as emergency situations when there isn’t enough time to stop and charge radios.

Sound Quality

In the vast ocean, it’s easy for communication platforms to fall short, but not two-way radios designed for marine communication. Digital radios turn voice signals into neatly packaged digital data, capable of transmitting information without interference of background noise like wind or loud engines.

Communicate Ship-to-Ship & Ship-to-Shore

Ships can communicate with people all over the world by message, voice, or through data transmission. In fact, digital radios can send data regarding sea levels and engine performance. In addition, they can be programmed to control important components of the ship equipment such as lights or surveillance equipment.

Durable: Water-proof, Dust-proof & Heat-proof

Two-way radios are built tough to weather just about any storm.

What is Vessel Watch?

Vessel Watch is a state-of-the-art software that offers extended capabilities to traditional two-way radio systems. It improves important features for a higher level of oversight and efficiency. The level of enhancement is completely customizable based upon a vessel’s needs and budget.

Vessel Watch offers: 

Alarm Monitoring

Two-way radios can be integrated the vessel’s alarm system. As a result, in an emergency, Vessel Watch sends out instant and detailed alarm notifications to selected groups or individuals.

Remotely Control Alarms, Doors & Lighting

Pre-program quick commands and enjoy the flexibility and convenience to control lighting, sound, fans, and on-board devices directly from your handset.

Schedule Tasks

Vessel Watch can be programed to send out automatic reminders to appropriate crew members so that they don’t miss crucial tasks, meetings, etc. Additionally, there is a log that records completed tasks while providing legal documentation of each achievement.

Crew Call Button

Alert or call on a crew member in seconds by transforming a smartphone or tablet into a Crew Call Button. The press of one button sends an immediate service request to the crew member(s) of your selection. When the crew receives the call, they can press to confirm. The caller will see that they confirmed receiving the signal and are responding to the request.

Do You Need Hands-Free Reliable Communication?

OTTO Connect Wireless Intercom is a communications solution for teams requiring clear and hands-free communication. No need to press a button to communicate. Thanks to a Full Duplex feature, you can transmit and receive messages simultaneously. Regardless of noise, if you are within one mile of the OTTO, it offers a clear communication system that sounds like you’re in a conference room as opposed to on the deck of a noisy ship.

Learn more about Marine Communication Solutions offered through Highland Wireless

There are three main components to most distributed antenna systems. These components include the Donor Antenna System, the Bi-Directional Amplifier, and the Distributed Antenna System. All three components work together to produce clear in-building communication signals. In addition, they improve the signal coming out of the building, ultimately improving the quality and clarity of incoming and outgoing calls.

Benefits of a Radio Enhancement System:

• Stronger signal throughout the entire building for seamless communication
• Maintains signal strength in an emergency. Allows Fire Departments and other First Responders to communicate without limitations, potentially saving lives.
• It’s not just convenient, according to the latest regulations it’s the law.
• Compliant with the International Fire Code and National Fire Protection Association
• DAS can simultaneously operate various bands for multiple operators
• Scalable for large and complex locations with unique demands
• Can increase range for mobile devices on a variety of cellular plans

A Closer Look at The Interworking Parts of a Radio Enhancement System

To better understand how the components of a radio enhancement system work together, you must first understand how they work individually. Continue reading for a breakdown of each of the three components.

What is the Donor Antenna System?

The Donor Antenna System is typically placed on top of a building where it has the greatest height and proximity to the nearest communication tower. The donor antenna is positioned in the direction of the closest tower for the best results. The donor antenna is the part of the system responsible for bringing signal into and out of the building.

As the most fundamental antenna in a radio enhancement system, it is placed on top of the roof. Yet, this puts the donor antenna at risk of high winds, rain, and other forces. In aims to preserve the donor antenna, at Highland Wireless, we utilize Category 5 Hurricane-Rated bracketing and R-56 Lightning Protection standards. This keeps the donor antenna protected and going strong, even in harsh conditions.

What is the Bi-Directional Amplifier?

The Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA) works with the Donor Antenna to receive and amplify signals inside of your building. This important component can process transmitting signals from handheld devises being used inside of the building. It transports these signals out to the communications tower via the donor antenna.

While in some cases a bi-directional amplifier may be installed without a distributed antenna system, it works best when paired with a DAS.

What is the Distributed Antenna System?

The Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is a network of in-building antennas specially designed for each building. In fact, the design of the system plays an integral role in how the system functions and how much it improves signal strength. A well-designed DAS generally includes a coaxial cable, unequal power dividers and splitters, as well as ceiling mounted antennas. Larger buildings benefit from the use of fiber as well.

Improve Communication & Get More Done with Highland Wireless

We design and install superior wireless radio enhancement systems in compliance with the National Fire Protection Association and the International Fire Code. Thanks to our vast experience and industry connections, we have what it takes to find solutions to address a wide variety of systems across various platforms. Contact us today to learn more and set up your free pre-testing of signal strength levels and site survey.

Installing a Distributed Antenna System (DAS) in your building strengthens mobile phone and wireless signals, while simultaneously strengthening your business. Not only is reliable coverage necessary during an emergency, it’s important for day-to-day tasks. After all, dropped calls and dead zones slow down productivity. Not only is it convenient to have good coverage, it’s also the law.

A DAS is a configuration of spatially separated antenna nodes installed with expert configuration regarding the cause of interference. The system picks up wireless signals and transports them through a fiber to an antenna where it disperses throughout the building. One Distributed Antenna System can offer support to several cellular and public safety technologies.

3 Signs Your Building Has Poor Wireless Coverage

Dropped calls are a common complaint

The people in your office regularly complain about dropped calls or poor signal strength.

Phones or hand-held devices show low signal

Handsets show fewer than three bars on a regular basis.

Certain parts of the building offer better coverage than others

You must stand near a window or door to make a call because the coverage improves in certain areas of the building. You may also find that coverage varies based on what floor of the building you are on.

What Causes Communication Interference Problems?

There are several common reasons for poor wireless coverage, including the thickness of walls. New building code regulations enforce the use of stronger and heavier materials to construct buildings. This helps protect construction against high-force winds, hurricanes, etc., but these thick materials are difficult for wireless signals to penetrate. Hence why dead zones are so common inside of large modern buildings.

Stairwells, elevators, energy-efficiency additions and certain fortifications in hospitals and government buildings can lead to interference as well. Additionally, the top floors of high-rise buildings are prone to RF interference from cellular towers, while lower floors are often shadowed from towers by buildings in the surrounding area. 

Cellular Enhancement Systems

Enhancing cellular coverage provided by the major carriers can be a challenge for both building owners and developers. It requires experience and specific knowledge to find the right solution to improve in-building cellular coverage. Several factors influence the best option including the size of your building, coverage requirements, and budget.

We offer free pre-testing of signal strength levels along with site surveys. Is your facility in pre-construction phase? We can offer a quote based on the floor plan of the building.

Learn more about cellular enhancement systems

In-Building Radio Enhancement Systems

An in-building radio enhancement system is designed to amplify signals for first responder and Fire Department radio networks, as well as cellular carriers. Each system is specifically designed to meet a facilities’ needs. For the most part, a Radio Enhancement System includes three main components:

1. The Donor Antenna System
2. The Bi-Directional Amplifier (BDA)
3. The Distributed Antenna System (DAS)

Learn more about in-building radio enhancement systems

Highland Wireless offers FREE pre-testing of signal strength levels and site surveys. From design through installation, we are here to meet all your communication goals in the state of Florida.

At Highland Wireless, we take care of all your communication needs. We even have a Marine Communication Consulting Division made up of experts who handle all aspects of ship communications. We make it possible for you to rely on affordable, flexible communication systems that meet all current regulations.

We can accommodate just about any budget, and thanks to the wide variety of options we have access to, there’s something for every situation. From consulting through design, delivery, and even installation—you can rely on us every step of the way. Not to mention, our competitive pricing makes better communication within reach.

As full-service Marine Communication Consultants, we offer:

• Consulting services
• Design
• Delivery
• Installation
• Optimization
• Implementation
• Training
• Ongoing maintenance

Here are 5 Benefits of Working with our Marine Communication Consultants

We help find the best solutions for your team

Our goal throughout the consulting and assessment process is to determine the most cost effective and efficient solution to meet your needs. If privacy is of greatest concern, we have you covered! If you’re more concerned with communication reliability… no need to worry!

Our team has vast experience with design, installation, and follow-up service—allowing you to provide greater attention and oversight to safety. In fact, we have delivered countless custom radio systems and solutions.

Depending on your budget, overall needs, vessel size and functionality requirements, there are three different tiers of communication platforms. Starting with the Mission Critical Tier System, the Professional Tier System, and finally, the Commercial Tier System. Allow us to help you decide on the best option for your vessel.

Rely on radios that meet all regulations & requirements

As of 2016, SOLAS mandated new regulations relating to radio communications for fire teams on ships. To meet requirements, all vessels must carry at least 2 two-way Marine Fire Team Radios that are intrinsically safe. This means radios are designed to withstand high heat and emergency situations.

We know the ins and outs of radio regulations and requirements. You can rely on our extensive experience to ensure your communication systems meet the latest standards for safety and reliability.

Our vast experience includes outfitting new vessels, as well as updating older vessels to meet all regulations and requirements. Keep in mind, ships built before June 2014 must meet new compliance standards by June of 2018. We can help, contact us today to learn more.

SOLAS Fire Team Radios

Speaking of SOLAS fire team radio requirements, we have all the equipment you need to outfit your vessel for utmost safety. SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios are specially designed to fulfill all marine safety needs.

Radio repairs on-demand

Enjoy easy access to reliable two-way radio repairs and optional 24/7 support for system issues. We can remotely access your system to troubleshoot and solve problems on-demand, even in the middle of the night.

Competitive pricing at your fingertips

Why pay more for radio communication when you don’t have to? We offer competitive pricing that won’t break the budget, including affordable two-way radio rentals. By operating with flexibility, we offer customized communication solutions for a wide variety of budgets, industries, and scenarios.

At any time, a fire emergency could break out on a ship. Is your fire team prepared to battle the flames and protect the safety of all crew members?  The right communications equipment helps ensure your team is prepared for anything. Intrinsically safe fire team radios are required onboard ALL vessels as of July 2018 according to the latest regulations put into place. 

Why Fire Team Radios are More Important Than Ever

Not only do fire team radios protect your team, they are now required. In 2016, SOLAS updated regulations regarding radio communication for fire teams onboard ships. It was realized that current systems lacked important safety features. That’s why they implemented several new rules, including: all ships must carry at least two 2-way radios rated as intrinsically safe and explosion proof. All ships built on July 1^st, 2014, or thereafter, must comply with this new regulation. Ships built prior to this date have until July 1^st of this year (2018) to comply.

Intrinsically Safe Radios

One of the first requirements radios must meet to be considered appropriate for fire teams is that equipment is intrinsically safe. By its official definition, intrinsically safe is defined as equipment that “is incapable of releasing sufficient electrical or thermal energy under normal or abnormal conditions to cause ignition of a specific hazardous atmospheric mixture in its most easily ignited concentration.” In other words, radios, wiring, and other equipment must be capable of withstanding high-heat environments and other emergency situations.

SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios

SOLAS stands for the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, this organization sets safety standards for vessels, including the types of two-way radio communication systems employed. SOLAS has an entire Chapter dedicated to Radiocommunications and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

Chapter IV outlines the importance of all cargo and passenger ships with 300 + gross tonnage. While navigating international waters, these large ships must carry the proper equipment to increase the chance of a rescue following an unexpected accident or emergency. This includes satellite emergency position to indicate radio beacons, as well as search and rescue transponders. First Responders must be able to identify the geographical location of the ship and its survival craft.

Other chapters outlined by SOLAS include:

The subdivision and stability of machinery and electrical installations (construction)

Fire protection, detection and extinction measures and practices

Lifesaving appliances and arrangements available onboard

Safety of navigation

Carriage of cargos

Carriage of dangerous goods

Nuclear ships

+so much more

What is a Good Fire Team Radio for Vessels?

Motorola makes a variety of top-notch two-way radios that meet Marine Fire Team radio requirements. The Motorola XPR-7550 is a fine example of incredible engineering, reliability, and durability. All packed into an easy-to-use radio with a color screen and optional keyboard.

Our SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios Package comes with the MOTORBO XPR7000e Series, a family of DMR standard digital radios and communication systems. Flexibility is key and this radio offers your crew the option to operate on UHF or VHF communication systems, or marine VHF channels.

The fire team radio package includes the following accessories: a firefighter chest pack, and a submersible IS Remote Speaker/Mic. Learn more

Update Your Vessel Before July 1^st—we can help!

We want to help you meet the latest Marine Fire Team radio standards set forth by SOLAS. We have everything you need to get up to speed, including TETRA radio systems specifically designed for Mission Critical Communication. Contact us today to learn more!