Float-free SVDR from KH

Kelvin Hughes (KH), part of Smiths Marine Systems, is proud to announce yet another world first having successfully achieved approval from QinetiQ, the UK Government?s nominated body for Type Approval of marine equipment, for a float-free interface to their MantaDigital Simplified Voyage Data Recorder ? SVDR.

As the first manufacturer to obtain type approval for their SVDR product, it is not surprising that KH is determined to spearhead the introduction of this new technology into the marine industry. The provision of this interface now allows KH to download the data captured on their SVDR into a float-free protective capsule as an alternative to the traditional fixed rugged capsule. This alternative represents another new and significant milestone in the development of VDR technology and further confirms the company?s position as market leaders.

In parallel with this development, Jotron, recognised as a leading force in the field of emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) have recently completed Type Approval testing of their SVDR float-free capsule. As Martin Taylor, Engineering and Programme Manager of KH remarked, ” Jotron?s specialist knowledge and experience in beacon technology, which spans some thirty five years, has assisted us in achieving another world first. With this float-free capability firmly in place, KH will be able to offer customers a full range of options of data and memory protection to both their SVDR and VDR products.”

All present VDR installations are equipped with fixed protective capsules which although designed to withstand extreme temperatures and pressure require expensive and time-consuming techniques for recovery. The new dimension of a float-free option, whilst less rugged, offers potentially lower recovery costs and speedier access to recorded data.