Expert Comms
Garmin’s VHF 210i AIS has digital selective calling, 25 watts of power and 10 preprogrammed NOAA weather channels. It also has a listen-only automatic identification system (AIS) receiver, allowing you to see other nearby AIS-equipped traffic on a networked Garmin multifunction display. The VHF 210i AIS has a combination of rotary knobs and hard keys. The 210i is compatible with NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 data backbones and has an IPX7 weatherproof rating. Buy here.
Safety Bangles
Securitag’s Sea-Tag wristbands offer a man-overboard (MOB) solution for anyone operating on coastal waters. The Sea-Tag system consists of at least one wristband that continuously sends electronic signals to one or more smartphones running the Sea-Tag app and monitoring for the signal. In the event of an MOB, the signal is broken when the wristband is submerged, triggering the app to enter alarm mode and mark the GPS position. The app also can be programmed to notify a shoreside contact. Buy here.
Power Conscious
Simarine’s Pico battery monitor can monitor six battery banks and uses Simarine’s Real Time Battery Health algorithm to deliver metrics. Additionally, Pico can monitor 14 holding tanks and 20 current sensors. The unit has Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing it to be wirelessly networked with and controlled by a smartphone running Pico’s app (Android- or iOS-compatible). The 3.5-inch monitor’s high-resolution LCD screen uses in-plane switching technology to ensure wide viewing angles and sunlight readability. Buy here.
