There are three different tiers of Marine communication platforms: Mission Critical, Professional, and Commercial. So, how do you know which of these tiers offers what you need? 

The Commercial Tier is the most commonly used, and has been around the longest. Easily the most affordable option, this tier should only be used for smaller yachts and less critical missions. It does not offer the same reliability or advanced features as the two other tier systems.

The Professional Tier System is the middle option, offering better coverage and security than Commercial Tier. It’s a solid option but it’s not as reliable as the Mission Critical Tier System.

The Mission Critical Tier is the top option offering guaranteed performance. Hence, why it’s used by First Responders like Police Departments and Fire Personnel.

Continue reading to learn more about all three tiers of marine communication platforms.

1. Mission Critical Tier System

Best performance option

This is the top system used for mission critical tasks and to protect public safety, as performance is guaranteed. Regarding ships, TETRA is the main platform used; it is the same network employed by many Fire Departments and other First Responders. And for good reason. This network is proven to offer reliability for digital radio communications. Keep in mind, larger vessels require several repeaters that synch together via a Cat5 network cable.

What are the benefits of TETRA? 

• Smart Integration with the ship alarms (telemetry)
• Make private calls to on-board radios without having to carry around two different radios. Integrate radios with the ship’s PBX to make and receive ship-to-shore/shore-to-ship calls.
• All TETRA radios are rated IP67, allowing for submersion up to 1m for as long as 40 minutes. They are durable, waterproof, full feature, and intrinsically safe.
• You can opt in for 24/7 Network Monitoring and Support, as well as Remote Analysis of Network.

2. Professional Tier System

Better system, professional tier

After the most secure Public Safety tier comes #2 on our list, the Professional Line of Digital Mobile Radios (DRM) radios. This tier radio is used on yachts of all sizes. A DMR network may be made up of one or several repeaters joined together with a Cat5 network cable. Vessels that measure over 50m typically need to add at least one repeater for full coverage across the boat.

This is a more affordable option with a lot to offer, but when compared to the Mission Critical Tier System, it offers decreased reliability and coverage.

What are the benefits of DMR?

• Features include Bluetooth, caller ID, call alert, TDMA spectrum efficiency, UHF band communications, migratable static-free communication
• You have options with several different manufactures including Kenwood, Motorola and Hytera.
• Option for Trunking, or multiple talk groups

3. Commercial Tier System

Lowest option, but still good in some cases

Commercial Tier radios are the most commonly used on yachts today, and they have been around the longest. They offer traditional radio-to-radio analog communications via VHF or UHF bands. While this can offer good coverage, it doesn’t necessarily offer the coverage necessary for larger yachts and more intricate vessels.

Analog radio-to-radio communications cannot offer the same level of coverage or the same rich features offered by digital radios. This type of radio will work good to communicate across the deck, but not necessary all throughout the vessel.

We recommend only using this tier system in yachts that measure less than 50m in length. In some cases, higher tier communication platforms can be beneficial to smaller ships as well. 

Have additional questions or concerns? Contact us today!

Do you need a rugged, portable, and high-tech two-way radio? The Kenwood NX-300 UHF NexEdge Radio might be the right option for you and your team. Frequently used in marine and construction environments, this radio is built tough while still offering some of the latest technological features, such as GPS.

The Kenwood NX-300 is water and dust resistant, rated at (IP54/55). Despite its tough exterior, it offers a large and easy to navigate screen that can display 2x the characters compared to the NX-320 model. Plus, it can access many frequencies and channels, while offering top-notch sound quality with 500 mW speakers.

Customization is important considering so many different industries rely on the same two-way radios. The NX-300 model allows users to program a variety of features to custom specifications. Plus, it offers substantial internal memory to store voice and GPS data.

Overview of Details & Specs for the Kenwood NX-300

• Large upgraded screen
• The option to program and customize features
• Water and dust resistant (IP54/55)
• GPS capabilities
• Backlit Dot Matrix LCD
• Optional analog trunking
• 16-Position Mechanical Selector
• NXDN ® Digital Air Interface
• VGS-1 Voice Guide
• SDM Manual Input
• Option to store voice and GPS data
• All group call feature
• PTT ID Digital ANI
• Emergency Call Tool
• PC Serial Interface
• Transparent Data Mode
• Built-in Voice Inversion Scrambler
• Narrowband capable; 12.5 kHz & 6.25 kHz
• Options for single zone, multi zone, and list scan

This model offers many of the same analog features as other Kenwood radios, such as LTR zones, FleetSync/MDC1200 PTT ID, as well as multiple signaling schemes.

The digital conventional mode includes:

• 64 Radio Access Numbers (RAN)
• Combination FM/Digital Operation
• Individual Call + Group Selective Call
• Standard IP Networks
• Site Roaming

Power & Frequency Range of the Kenwood NX-300

Frequency Range = K – 450 MHz, K2 – 400 MHz, K3 – 450-520 MHz, K4 – 400 – 479 MHz

This radio carries 5W transmit power and can support 512 channels and 128 zones.

Intrinsically Safe Radio

An Intrinsically Safe Radio is a common requirement for certain positions, such as with first responders or when working on an oil rig. For a radio to be considered intrinsically safe, it must be approved as safe to use in hazardous environments that could present a risk for a spark, heat, or flame.

The Screen & Interface

The large and clear 14-character alphanumeric display offers an easy to navigate interface. Kenwood’s NX-320 model does not have as large of a screen. In fact, the NX-300 model can display over 2x as many characters at once. There are 6 PF and menu keys, plus NXDN interface. Customize the interface to display one of many language options. The LED screen uses a series of flashing lights and LCD icons to display warnings, calls, busy signals, and so forth.

Get all the Accessories You Need

Some basic accessories for this radio include an antenna, belt clip, charger, and battery. Pick from a variety of more advanced accessories that can add even more features to your device.

If you buy radios, you may need to purchase accessories separately. But, when you rent two-way radios from Highland Wireless, you can rest assured we take care of all the accessories you need. Other benefits of renting two-way radios from us include:

• Enjoy a large selection of Kenwood and Motorola two-way radios and compatible accessories for rent
• We take care of maintenance and trouble-shooting
• We offer Fire Team Radios and other radios approved for First Responders

Don’t waste money buying a fleet of radios for short-term events. It’s much more cost effective to rent. Learn more about renting two-way radios, including the Kenwood NX-300.

The Motorola XPR-7550 meets SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios requirements. This intrinsically safe two-way radio offers the reliability and durability your team needs to make it through anything with communication wholly intake. It comes fully equipped with the latest features Motorola two-way radios are known for, such as a full color LCD screen display + compatibility with the newest digital radio set ups.

The Motorola XPR-7550 offers a lot of flexibility with the capability to work with:

• Everyday crew UHF communication systems
• VHF communication systems
• Marine VHF channels
• + other options for re team and general ship communications

Described as the perfect pairing between digital radio and Data application, this two-way radio operates more like a smart phone than a standard two-way radio. For one, it comes with GPS and Bluetooth for added efficiency and effectiveness. Even with all these bonus perks, the Motorola XPR-7550 reviews often cite its durability and rugged design—ideal for first responders and emergency situations. Built to MIL Spec, this radio should outlast the competition by a longshot.

Motorola XPR-7550 Specs

• Brilliant LCD color display for easy and enjoyable user experience
• GPS capabilities with outdoor location tracking
• Bluetooth capabilities
• Rough and tough design—built to last in just about any environment
• IMPRESS ^TM battery technology
• Submersible IP57
• Intrinsically safe (can withstand high heat, water, and emergency situations)

Waterproof + Heatproof 

The Motorola XPR-7550 two-way radio can withstand high heat and water. In fact, it’s submersible IP57 and intrinsically safe. As a result, this two-way radio makes an ideal solution for a wide variety of environments.

Impress^TM Battery Technology

Thanks to Impress^TM Battery Technology, the Motorola XPR-7550 packs a lot of ongoing power for those never-ending days and nights. Improved technology ensures batteries are constantly performing at their highest level.

Impressive Sound Quality

Loud environments or emergency situations call for superior audio qualities and that’s exactly what the Motorola XPR-7550 offers. Never worry about missing a message because you can’t hear due to too soft of sound, muffled sounds, or too much background noise. Motorola designed this two-way radio with the latest technology for clear communication regardless of surrounding sounds and noise levels.

Easy to Use

The Motorola XPR-7550 is easy to use. It has an on/off switch and a volume knob, as well as a knob to select the correct operating channel. The buttons make a slight “clicking” sound to indicate that they’ve been activated. Unlike most other Motorola two-way radios, this radio is not limited to the standard 16 positions.

Meet All SOLAS Requirements with the Motorola XPR-7550

The SOLAS requirements instituted in 2014 go into effect on July 1, 2018 for all ships built before or after 2014. That means all vessels must be stocked with intrinsically safe radios that meet all the latest requirements to protect crew members and first responders. That includes multiple radios that can withstand high heat and severe emergency situations without fail.

Rent the Motorola XPR-7550 from Highland Wireless

Enjoy the SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios package by Highland Wireless when you rent several or an entire fleet of Motorola XPR-7550 radios. We make it easier than ever to meet all SOLAS ordinances and other requirements.

When you rent the Motorola XPR-7550 from Highland Wireless, all the accessories are included with it. You get a firefighter chest pack and a submersible IS remote speaker and mic, as well also an optional keyboard display add-on.

Learn more about the Motorola XPR-7550

One of the most well-known two-way radios, the Motorola CP-200D has a lot to offer. It’s powerful, functional, and designed to last year after year. The CP-200D can be used as a digital or analog radio, which is the main difference between it and its earlier model, the CP-200.

The CP-200D comes with the power to interrupt transmissions as needed, as well as the 2-slot TDMA DMR standard which can double the capacity of your 12.5 kHz channel without using a repeater. Users love the unlimited ways they can utilize this flexible radio, for instance it offers Push-to-Talk ID and Select Call features.

The software on this radio is top-notch, and with superior hardware to boot. It’s made small and lightweight but with added durability to withstand wear and tear. Plus, it’s IP54 rated as dustproof and splashproof.

The CP-200D comes in both 4W UHF and 5W VHF models. There are different battery options to pick from. Plus, rapid recharging capabilities allow this radio to last for up to 18 hours (in digital mode) and then quickly recharge for further use. 

Motorola CP-200D Specs & Features:

• Push-to-talk ID
• Selective Call feature
• Call Alert feature
• Increased flexibility for all communication needs
• Powerful audio output
• Up to 18 hours of battery life—programing software gives you the option to adjust power output for various coverage needs.

Analog and Digital Capabilities

The Motorola CP-200D offers all the benefits of digital radios, such as clearer communication, extended range and optimal battery performance. It also offers the ability to remain compatible with your existing radios.

With the option for analog or digital radio, you can advance to newer technology at your pace. You can easily make the switch from analog to digital by downloading the software for digital capability at any time.

Interruptions for Emergencies

This radio makes it easy for a supervisor to interrupt a user and deliver important communication the moment it’s needed. This offers faster response times and more efficient reactions to issues or emergencies.

Noisy Environments? No Problem with the Motorola CP-200D

Motorola CP-200D reviews commonly mention how well this radio still works in noisy environments. Concerts, nightclubs or other noisy venues can make radio communication more complicated. Not anymore! The Motorola CP-200D offers seamless communication as it filters out background noise.

Easy-to-Use Radio

This radio has a lot to offer but it’s also easy to use. Starting with the large rotary channel selector that quickly and easily changes channels. The push-to-talk button makes it easy to communicate quickly, even if users happen to be wearing bulky gloves. The tricolor LED indicator makes it easy to identify feedback by simply glancing at the radio. The colors are intended to indicate a call, scan, and monitoring features.

Customizable Two-Way Radio Buttons

There are two buttons on the device that can be programmed with any two of four features, based upon your needs.  These programmable buttons offer customization right at your fingertips. Also, you can adjust the power output for different levels of coverage thanks to included programming software.

Channels Galore

Simply twist the knob to change the channel. The Motorola CP-200D offers the capability to operate on a variety of channels. Additionally, the Priority Channel automatically scans for higher-priority channels.

Overall Performance of the Motorola CP-200D

• Adjustable power levels
• Repeater capable
• Battery life = approximately 14.5 hours in analog mode and 18.5 hours in digital mode 
• Frequency band: VHF or UHF
• Frequency range: VHF (136-174 MHz); UHF (403-470 MHz)

Rent the Motorola CP-200D from Highland Wireless

Highland Wireless offers affordable and convenient two-way radio rentals. Need to meet certain standards or regulations? Our knowledgeable team of radio professionals is here to help you install a secure two-way radio communication system that meets all your needs.  Our radio rentals come with all necessary accessories and maintenance. That’s why so many different industries rent two-way Motorola and Kenwood radios from us, for both long-term and short-term use.

Looking for a radio that has a keyboard? Is intrinsically safe, or meets more rigorous standards, such as SOLAS requirements? We’ve got you covered! Contact us today to learn more.

The latest SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios requirements have been updated as of 2016. Also, new regulations instituted in 2014 are required to go into effect in July of 2018. The goal of these regulations is to enforce safety in case of an emergency. The new requirements enforce all ships to have 2 two-way radios on board. Radios must be explosion proof or intrinsically safe. 

What Does “Intrinsically Safe” Mean?

In short, intrinsically safe simply means that equipment is constructed to a standard that is approved for use in high heat and emergency situations. This requires a very durable radio system that can withstand high heat as well as water, and even explosions.

According to the ISA-RP12-6 intrinsically safe is defined as: “equipment and wiring which 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.” 

How Long Do You Have to Comply with New SOLAS Regulations?

New SOLAS requirements went into effect for all new ships on July 1, 2014. As of this year, July 1, 2018, all ships must upgrade equipment to meet the latest SOLAS requirements.

SOLAS Chapter II-2 Regulation 10.10.4 reads:

“For ships constructed on or after 1 July 2014, a minimum of two two-way portable radiotelephone apparatus for each fire party for fire-fighter ́s communication shall be carried on board. Those two two-way radiotele-phone apparatus [Fire-fighter radios] shall be of an explosion-proof type or intrinsically safe. Ships constructed before 1 July 2014 shall comply with the requirements of this paragraph not later than the first survey after 1 July 2018.”

What about ships built after July 1, 2014?

All ships built after July 1, 2014 should be equipped with the newest regulation requirements. There are around 2,000 new ships constructed each year but it’s reported that only a handful of ships meet all SOLAS vessels requirements. It is estimated that fire fighter radio requirements have jumped to around 6,000 to 8,000 units per newbuildings annually.

What about ships built before July 1, 2014?

It is estimated that 89,000 vessels constructed prior to July 1, 2014 are still in existence. An estimated 60,000 to 65,000 vessels are regarded under the SOLAS regulation and must adhere to SOLAS 10.10.4. Non-SOLAS vessels are still mandated to follow Regulation 10.10.4 as of July 2018. The number of vessels that have adapted the latest standards can be difficult to estimate because “some of these will implement Regulation 10.10.4 on the owner’s voluntary decision.”

When is the Deadline to implement 10.10.4 Regulations?

Final implementation date is July 1, 2018, at which point around 260,000 to 300,000 units will be necessary. This “will pose an exorbitant requirement for timely delivery prior to survey of the vessels trading worldwide.”

Meet SOLAS Requirements with Motorola 

Motorola Radios offer the durability and overall requirements enforced by SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios requirements. In fact, the MOTOTRBO XPR7000e Series is fully equipped with a SOLAS Marine Fire Team Radios package and meets all requirements to provide crews with UHF or VHF communication systems, as well as marine VHF channels.

We take great pride in our job helping you and your team find the right solution to meet all requirements. The goal is always to protect the safety of crew members and first responders.

Learn more about Fire Team Radios by Highland Wireless