What is a VDR System?

The VDR (Voyage Data Recorder) is the maritime counterpart to the black box utilized by airlines. The system is usually two-parts comprised of a data-collection unit and a deck-mounted safety pod that is designed to resist shock, fire, deep-sea pressurized and penetration. It is used to capture incidents of navigation, but it can also provide valuable data for heavy-weather https://digitaldealdataroom.info/learn-how-much-should-a-data-room-cost-in-reality/ damage analysis, performance monitoring and crew training.

Up-grading

Many ships with VDR/SVDR meet the minimum regulatory requirements. However, members are encouraged use the equipment to document near misses, conduct incident investigations as well as for preventive maintenance. In addition, there are programs that can dramatically extend the time for which VDR data is available beyond the current minimum of 12 hours and a decision must be made as to whether or not to upgrade to this.

The system is built around an industrial grade computer that performs several functions, including processing and encoding information received from sensors. The capsule is designed to survive any disaster and keep the data. The primary components of the VDR system include a collection unit that is located on the bridge, a separate power source as well as an interface unit and batteries for backup. The unit collects data from all sources integrated including microphones for recording bridge audio, and then sends it to the Concentrator where a sequence of NMEA 0183 sentences are processed and encoded prior to being transmitted to the final recording medium.