Cornwall, a county surrounded by sea, has been our home since the beginning. So it should come as no surprise that we have a deep understanding of marine technology. Whilst our portfolio ranges from the education sector, to the environmental sector, and from the construction industry to leisure services, our knowledge of the marine sector is second to none, and is at the forefront of our minds. Our connection to the landscape that is on our doorstep offers us a valued insight which we would be foolish to ignore. This is why we offer a range of services that can aid in the smooth running of any marine expedition which plans to set out onto the open ocean.
IoT (Internet of Things)
For some time, here at Microcomms we have embraced the IoT phenomenon, in order to truly understand its scope, and how we can best utilise this new age. In a broad sense, the IoT encompasses everything, from dog collars to toasters, that is connected to the internet. This term, IoT, is increasingly being used to define objects (Things) that talk to each other. For Microcomms, we see the value in this when you combine these ‘Things’ with automated systems. Data from the network can be analysed and generate findings that demand an action or a solution, in an attempt to better a process. It is all about the Things, the data that the IoT collects, and how to best use it in a myriad of ways.
When it comes to the marine industry, the idea of a ‘connected vessel’ is becoming standard across the marine landscape, and with the touch of a button, maritime workers can monitor, track and control their boats’ operating systems. All that data is then securely recorded and ready to be used at a later date, if needed, by maritime officers. ‘Marine technology’ can range from secure communications and data management, to general operational control, onboard wifi and hardware installations. So let’s run through how we can help.
Secure Communication and Data Management
Whether it’s for an offshore wind farm, a recreational vessel, or from the harbour itself, secure communication is vital for the safety of everyone on board, and for the vessel itself. Connecting your ship to port, and other systems, allows maritime control visuals on your whereabouts, which is great for safety when at sea. The data collected from this secure comms system ensures a digital paper trail – essential if something should go wrong, and great for concise and clear comms for daily use.
Energy Efficiency and Operational Control
Whilst the IoT can be summarised as a collection of ‘things, it’s these ‘things’ that can provide effective and useful marine technology. Sensors embedded into IoT components allow the continuous monitoring of machinery, hull condition, and wear and tear of equipment. These sensors can report this back to operation control, where the lifespan of the vessel itself can be closely inspected. This reduces the need for unnecessary repairs, and the spending of vital funding.
This is already being used in many vessels across the world, giving real-time data to on-board crew and maritime officers in a vast array of locations. More recently, sensors that monitor fuel consumption have been high in demand, given the rise in fuel costs. In fact, Inmarsat’s 2018 ‘Industrial IoT at Land and Sea: Maritime Report’ projected a 14% cost saving within five years on fuel consumption.
Onboard WiFi
IoT can be as simple as providing onboard WiFi for vessels or structures at sea. Whilst there are other modes of communicating with land, and other surrounding vessels, providing your ship and crew with onboard WIFI can be extremely useful. Here at Microcomms we can offer this marine technology, along with its installation, to ensure your vessel is online and ready to go. Onboard WiFi, however, is not just for crew. Connecting your operational systems to the cloud, to transmit real-time data, can be invaluable, and saves time when downloading tracking reports, maintenance sensor reports and cargo management information when reaching port.
At Microcomms we offer Starlink Marine Satellite, the world’s most advanced and affordable broadband option for those in the marine sector. This SpaceX Starlink is a great option that can withstand bad weather, remote locations and intermittent signals.
Privacy is what comes to mind when we introduce this service to our clients. Whilst anything connected to the internet is open to the potential danger of hacking, at Microcomms, we take cybersecurity very seriously. Organisations and manufacturers all over the world are creating standards and guidelines to address these issues presently, and we are more than happy to discuss your options with you, along with any potential risks.
Data and Audio Visual Hardware and Installations
Whilst it may sound simple to just ‘connect your devices’, it is a project that takes time, skill and focus. Microcomms has a rich history in hardware installation, given our inception as a cable manufacturer back in 1980. We understand the importance of a reliable system that will not fail at the first hurdle. We provide data and audio visual hardware installations for marine technology thanks to our team of experts, and we do so with extreme care and attention to detail. By adding audio visual links on board, we can also ensure you are hooked up with the speakers, monitors and CCTV across the deck, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all crewmembers. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) can offer protection in the marine sector by providing backup power to critical systems and equipment onboard a vessel. Such as navigation, communication, or control systems in the event of a power outage or fluctuation. In a marine environment, power interruptions can occur due to a variety of factors, such as storms, power grid failures, or equipment malfunctions. Providing temporary power during the transition to backup generators, ensures uninterrupted power to essential equipment.
Do you want to find out more?
We are happy to dive straight in, be it in the involvement with the construction of a new vessel, a refit project on a vessel that is already established, or upgrading your hardware/software systems to meet the demands of a modern, connected craft.
