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The owner’s brief was to provide a robust, state-of-the-art communications system.
by Ivor Wilkins
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10/01/2005
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The owner’s brief was to provide a robust, state-of-the-art
communications system, including video conference facilities, voice and fax communications, e-mail and Internet connectivity. In addition, the system needed
to be future-proofed so the latest technological advances could be applied as
they arise.
Also, the CCTV system video was to be made available via the
Internet when the owner is not on board. Cameras on board include a masthead
PTZ, a fixed camera on spreader one covering the aft deck, two engine room
cameras and a passerelle camera.
The primary means of communication when cruising in North America,
Europe and Australia is provided by the SeaTel 4003 high-speed stabilized
antenna system. An IP router controls the distribution of the available
bandwidth to all users on the ship’s Ethernet hub. Users can access all services
on this network via two wireless APs covering the whole vessel, or via a wired
network with outlets in each cabin. All wireless APs have WPA encryption
implemented for security.
In areas where the 4003 is unavailable, a DSL router can be
connected to this network to provide the above services while at a
dock.
An independent "F77 Network" controlled via a Marinecoms Linux
Ethernet dial-up provides communications backup. Service is distributed
throughout the vessel via a wired network as well as by three wireless APs
providing coverage throughout.
The Linux gateway provides access to the F77 ISDN, F77 MPDS,
GSM (GPRS) and landline service. Control of the gateway is via simple Web page
interface using any regular Web browser, such as Firefox, Mozilla or
Internet Explorer.
The gateway provides a robust alternative unaffected by the
inherent insecurities of a Windows server/gateway.
 Eye of the Beholder
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