Yōkoso, new VDR
In line with the revised Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) performance standards which came into force on 1 July 2014, JRC welcomes or as we say in Japan, yōkoso, to our fourth generation VDR model, the JCY-1900. Having been involved in VDR development from the very beginning in 2001, this latest revision in the performance standards has allowed JRC to re-think, develop and design its latest model with the standard attention to detail for performance, reliability and long term competitive cost of ownership.
Differences with previous model
The new VDR performance standard MSC.333(90) has had a major impact on the event recording requirements. Prior to the new VDR regulations coming into force, a minimum of 12 hours of recording was mandatory in either a fixed or float free capsule installed onboard the vessel. After 1 July 2014, both a fixed and float free capsule are required to be installed and data must be recorded for a minimum of 48 hours in both capsules with an additional 30 days/720 hours stored within the VDR.
No new S-VDR regulation, yet a new model
While there is no new Simplified Voyage Data Recorder (S-VDR) requirement, there will also be the new JCY-1950 variant available with just one capsule, fixed or float free. JRC is a company founded on the principles of long term reliability and customer support and there are many ship owners sailing with older S-VDR makes and models that might no longer be supported. JRC views this as a duty to these owners to continue to offer an acceptable alternative solution.
Proven black box design, hardware for mariners
The JCY-1900 is, like its predecessor, black box designed, uses our own designed and fabricated, reliable, marinized hardware, with an easy IP based format, purposely designed for our VDR. The heart of the VDR is the recording control unit, which controls and manages all sensor, audio and image interface inputs and outputs. Various networks are available including VDR network control for connected capsules and the operation panel, which is also used by authorities to retrieve any necessary data following an incident. In addition, the special JRC network can be connected to JRC’s Multi Function Display and user network for real time monitoring.
System operation, on a 7-inch display
Newly designed for the JCY-1900 is the 7-inch color LCD touch display which allows full system operation. Displaying various VDR alerts with detailed information, see what sensors are connected including status, view the latest recorded image data of radar and ECDIS and playback of audio tracks recorded from microphones.
System setup on the new operation panel unit displays currently installed software version, performance test results, and even allows you to see actual operating lifetime of parts that need regular replacements. For example, knowing the status of the capsule battery and the fan in the recording control unit enables in-service replacement in a timely manner without causing downtime or interfering with the vessels’ already busy and expensive schedule. The USB port on the front of the display allows copying of data from the VDR.
The 7-inch wide display has allowed JRC engineers to develop an exiting new software approach that offers simple-to-use icons, based upon JRC’s experience with simple menus and dedicated functions, inspired by our innovative Multi Function Display (MFD). JRC carries forward the design and presentation elements within our own distinctive and visual style to this small operation panel, which can clearly be seen to be within the JRC family of products. Developed with our own built-in quality that ship owners, managers and maritime administrations have long relied upon from JRC.
Playback, ideal for crew training
JRC includes intuitive playback-software that incorporates real-time monitoring functionality on the user PC. The data acquired can be displayed in both graphical and numerical format. Standard CSV (Comma Separated Values) data conversion enables easy and efficient exchange of information to shore e.g. via email. In addition, the playback-software is an ideal tool for crew training. Its ease of use and the freedom to survey a range of scenarios enhances the user’s navigation skills.
Playback software supports Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8.
Remote maintenance, closer to you than ever
The new JRC VDR has a dedicated server integrated as standard to support our JRC proprietary Remote Maintenance System (RMS) using IP-routing technology to monitor status of navigation and radio communication equipment onboard, via JRC’s FB or GX Inmarsat satellite communications systems, to establish a highly secure connection data link to the vessel. This allows a cost-effective determination of the operating status, software version numbers installed, etc., of the JRC equipment onboard whilst the vessel is at sea. Being able to diagnose a problem remotely, accurately, reliably and quickly, allows the ship owner to save one of the most precious commodities, time. JRC can make preparations at the next port for the necessary repair work, dramatically increasing the return to work status, using our comprehensive and well-trained global support network.
Built, around our MFD
The JCY-1900 is built around our revolutionary new Multi Function Display (MFD) which functions as radar and/or ECDIS. The unit supports a LAN video input with a maximum of 6 video signals, which allows a straightforward and seamless integration of our MFD, supporting multiple radars and paperless sailing with dual ECDIS.
Naturally, connecting our previous generation radar/ECDIS equipment or other third party radar/ECDIS are also possible, although may require additional hardware.
