NEW GEAR
with rupert holmesThis black box Class B AIS transponder has a fast reporting rate and high
output power. It communicates in a similar way to a Class A unit, allowing
it to slot in transmissions even when the frequency is very congested.
It updates every five seconds – compared to a minimum of twice per
minute – helping ensure there are no long gaps between transmissions in
busy waters. A 5W transmitting power helps the signal travel significantly
further than with standard 2W Class B transponder.
Price £708. http://www.oceansignal.comBarton has upgraded its entire range
of blocks with new models that
are, on average, 13 per cent
lighter than the previous
equivalent models. At the
same time strength has
increased by 10-12 per cent
across the range.
The range has been simplified
but still offers a wide choice that
will cover almost any application on
board. Eight sizes cater for lines from 1mm to 14mm, with roller bearing
or plain bearing sheaves. They are available in single, double or triple
configurations and with or without beckets.
Prices from £4.98 to £136. http://www.bartonmarine.comThis load cell was developed for the last America’s Cup as a lightweight
means of measuring relatively low loads on a line, but is a product that has a
benefit for less esoteric boats sailed closer to home. Most successful IRC 1
and 2 race boats are already measuring and logging loads – a trend that’s
likely to continue into smaller race boats as well as larger cruising yachts.
The signal from the cell is small, so an amplifier is needed. The device
outputs a signal to the boat’s NMEA2000 system.
Prices: Loadcell £960-1,200. Amplifi er: £480. http://www.diverseyachts.comThis is a powerful pocket sized floating torch with a difference: when
immersed in water an alarm on an accompanying app is triggered to
indicate a man overboard situation. At the same time the torch will
automatically switch to strobe mode, visible for up to three miles and
flashing every two seconds for up to 20 hours.
The app displays directions back to the point of the incident and
provide the MOB position and boat data for the coastguard.
Price £98.95. http://www.exposurelights.comUpgraded Barton blocks
Wind sensors are one of the most common items to go wrong in instrument
systems, so a solid-state alternative is attractive. The internal battery is
charged by a solar panel, but also has capacity to transmit data for 30 days
via Bluetooth, although a wired-in option is also offered. Options include a
carbon or aluminium vertical wand. Interface is via a smartphone app, or an
NMEA gateway using the 0183 protocol. NMEA2000 compatible software is
under development. The product is waterproofed to IPX8 standards.
Price: from €499. http://www.calypsoinstruments.comCalypso Ultrasonic wind sensor
Canvas cockpit enclosures rarely have any form of effective ventilation
other than any informal airflow that occurs around any gaps at the base
of the shelter.
These easy-to-fit vents, available in soft rubber or a harder HDPE
plastic, can be stitched in to allow warm, moist air to escape on a warm
day, reducing the tendency to form condensation and mould.
An optional louvre front helps keep out bees or rodents.
Price: TBA http://www.boatvent.comOcean Signal ATB1 AIS Boat Vent Aero
Exposure OLAS Float-On
DogBone Loadcell
›