When I decided to expand my lifetime of residential electronic security knowledge into the marine security world, I was absolutely amazed at how many alarm manufacturers were attempting to pawn off the systems they designed for normal residential and commercial use, as" Marine Security Systems." As a boating enthusiast myself, with a vessel in the great Pacific Northwest, I knew that most things in life don't hold up to the marine environment that we keep our boats in. That's precisely why we buy most replacement parts from a marine parts purveyor and not an auto parts dealer, unless we don't care how long they last.
I began my research by asking myself "how can these systems be marine alarms, if they aren't modified in any way to withstand the harsh environment?" After inspection of many units and specifications, the answer was clear. They are not worthy of being called marine security systems!
Without being designed to withstand environmental issues such as salt and/or damp air, constant vibration, temperature extremes, etc. the systems will likely not be functioning soon after the warrantee's expire. To be truly a marine grade security system, you need to design the product from the ground up, just for the purpose they will be functioning in. Marine alarm system controls should be housed in NMEAIII enclosures (rated for water resistance), have all the electronics coated and potted, and have an epoxy seal over all the components that are necessary for function, but not needed for user interface.
The blatant misuse of common household motion detectors is a disaster when used on boats. When using these devices, the bumping of a vessel on a dock, the window treatments swaying as the boat moves in the wakes and winds, the extreme amount of sunlight that lands on the vessel, creatures entering protected areas, etc. will do little more than cause constant false alarms. Instead motion should be detected by hidden pressure sensors placed under decks and ladders, to warn of intruders boarding the vessel. If interior cabin motion detectors are used at all, they need to be dual technology devices that are designed to need two technology violations in order to be used in boats. In addition to the pressure sensors protecting the decks, marine grade contacts should be placed on doors, hatches and lockers, preventing entry into restricted areas.
Additional devices that are made just for boat security systems, which will help you, supervise important boat systems include:
* Bilge sensors (high water detectors in case of bilge pump failure)
* AC detectors (monitors shore power)
* DC detectors (monitors low battery banks)
* Temperature detectors (monitors temperature extremes in cabins and engine rooms)
* Smoke detectors (early interior fire protection)
* GPS tracking antennas (monitors boat movement, speed, coarse and heading)
* Sounder chimes (lets you know of violations when your below, with the system disarmed)
You can use your marine alarm as a standalone system that will warn of violations with a loud siren and flashing lights, or you can add a monitoring device for remote notification.
It's important to make sure that your monitoring device is also designed specifically for the marine environment, just as the alarm control and all its devices should be.
Here are some available marine alarm systems, monitoring options:
Cellular: A cellular communicator is triggered from your alarm system, by a security or supervisory violation. The cellular communicator determines which numbers are to be called, (based on the type of signal) and notifies you via text message of the violation. The cellular communicators use a pre-paid SIM card that you keep a desired amount of minutes on, and recharge over the phone as needed with your credit card. On some marine systems, the cellular communicators will both text message you, and give you a voice message of the exact condition if you answer the phone. These types of units will also allow you to enter commands for arming/disarming the system, turning lights and appliances on/off, and even listen in on the vessel and talk to onboard parties via the alarm control and your cell phone. You can also add a GPS unit to these cellular units for vessel tracking via the internet. Cellular units are best used on inland waters and in places where the boat will not be away from a cell towers reach, or in roaming conditions.
Satellite: These units monitor all conditions as above with the cellular units, but have worldwide communications capability. These units have GPS tracking ability as well. They require a satellite subscription which gives you a personal webpage for your boat. The unit texts you if there are any violations and will allow you completely control tracking and vessel systems through the website. Some systems combine cellular control and reporting with satellite trackers for when the vessel is out of cell range.
Internet Protocol: This type of system texts and emails you of vessel alarm and supervisory conditions. You must have internet access onboard to use these systems. Internet onboard can be accomplished with wireless routers, express cards, EVDO cards (laptop cards), and satellite communications. These systems allow you complete control of system devices, lighting and appliance controls and motion sensing video cameras both inside and outside of your vessel. Imagine the satisfaction of being able to not only know that someone is on your boat but being able to see them as well, through streaming video to your PC or Java enabled cell phone. These units store video of violations, on an off vessel server. Even if the unit itself was stolen, you would still have video of who did it. These units require a monthly server subscription for access to the web page that controls your vessels systems.
I have developed a comprehensive website where you can learn all about the finest available systems that have been designed just for the marine environment. You will also find pricing and availability of your perfect system, while enjoying the detailed specifications of the various systems.
Use the link below for a visit and get all your questions answered there!
Matthew is a 23 year veteran of the alarm industry. He has served as an installer, salesman, licensed alarm company owner, monitoring station designer and a promotions and marketing director with one of the worlds largest security dealers. He now works as a consumer advocate, teaching consumers how to buy systems. He also specializes in the marine security alarm business. He is committed to educating consumers while remaining unbiased.
His web site is http://www.MarineGuardSecurity.com
Friday, February 27, 2009
Friday, February 20, 2009
The Boat Hull and Its Effect on Water Travel
While many people have leisurely floated out to sea on a strapping sailboat, endured a family fishing expedition, or vacationed on a luxurious cruise ship, it is the same scientific principle that makes all watercrafts stay afloat. The ability to travel by water is based on the rule of displacement.
In simple terms, displacement occurs when an object is set in fluid, forcing the fluid out of its way. In the case of boats, the object's mass is considered its displacement. The basic concept is the same, however, because it refers to the amount of water forced out of the way. Any object that floats is displacing a measurement of fluid equaling that of its mass. Interestingly, the type of water remains a factor, since a ship traveling in fresh water needs to displace a larger volume of fluid than one of the same size moving through salt water.
Small boats usually have a flat bottom, making it easier to glide on top of water when traveling at fast speeds. Rough waters should be avoided in these types of vessels, as they are intended for much calmer settings, such as ponds and still lakes. Flat-bottomed boats, or "jon (or john) boats", as they are typically called, are primarily constructed of aluminum or wood.
Vessels with round bottoms are designed to slide through water and are designed for low speeds. Found on many canoes and sailboats, round bottoms often require some type of stabilization, since wave movement will cause the vessel to rock. Round-bottomed boats are often the cause of seasickness in many passengers.
The most common type of hull is the "V", or Deep-V. This type of bottom allows a vessel to travel at higher speeds and cut through the waves, producing a gentler ride. Although V bottoms move easier through active waters, a large engine is required to propel the vehicle. The V bottom comes in a variety of designs, with various modifications made over time to improve its purpose.
Boats with dual hulls, or cathedral hulls, are very stable because of the way they sit in the water. They may even possess more than two hulls, called a multi-hull, giving even greater stability. Catamarans are designed using a tunnel hull, which feature two Deep Vs on either side, joined together by a raised section.
When choosing a boat, it is important to consider the type of water in which the watercraft will be used. Although they are less expensive than most and require little maintenance, flat-bottomed watercrafts are never recommended for ocean use. Likewise, for relaxing fishing trips in tranquil waters, a Deep-V vessel would be an excessive purchase.
Victor Epand is an expert consultant about model boats, boat parts, and model submarines. You will find the best shopping at these sites for model boats, used boat hulls for sale.
In simple terms, displacement occurs when an object is set in fluid, forcing the fluid out of its way. In the case of boats, the object's mass is considered its displacement. The basic concept is the same, however, because it refers to the amount of water forced out of the way. Any object that floats is displacing a measurement of fluid equaling that of its mass. Interestingly, the type of water remains a factor, since a ship traveling in fresh water needs to displace a larger volume of fluid than one of the same size moving through salt water.
Small boats usually have a flat bottom, making it easier to glide on top of water when traveling at fast speeds. Rough waters should be avoided in these types of vessels, as they are intended for much calmer settings, such as ponds and still lakes. Flat-bottomed boats, or "jon (or john) boats", as they are typically called, are primarily constructed of aluminum or wood.
Vessels with round bottoms are designed to slide through water and are designed for low speeds. Found on many canoes and sailboats, round bottoms often require some type of stabilization, since wave movement will cause the vessel to rock. Round-bottomed boats are often the cause of seasickness in many passengers.
The most common type of hull is the "V", or Deep-V. This type of bottom allows a vessel to travel at higher speeds and cut through the waves, producing a gentler ride. Although V bottoms move easier through active waters, a large engine is required to propel the vehicle. The V bottom comes in a variety of designs, with various modifications made over time to improve its purpose.
Boats with dual hulls, or cathedral hulls, are very stable because of the way they sit in the water. They may even possess more than two hulls, called a multi-hull, giving even greater stability. Catamarans are designed using a tunnel hull, which feature two Deep Vs on either side, joined together by a raised section.
When choosing a boat, it is important to consider the type of water in which the watercraft will be used. Although they are less expensive than most and require little maintenance, flat-bottomed watercrafts are never recommended for ocean use. Likewise, for relaxing fishing trips in tranquil waters, a Deep-V vessel would be an excessive purchase.
Victor Epand is an expert consultant about model boats, boat parts, and model submarines. You will find the best shopping at these sites for model boats, used boat hulls for sale.
Friday, February 13, 2009
All About the Turkish Gulet For Crewed Charter in Turkey
Turkey's indigenous sea-going vessel, the Gulet, is offered for crewed charter in Turkey at three different levels, which are the Traditional Gulet, Luxury Gulet, and a Gulet-Style Sailing Yacht. Each has unique characteristics, and it is those characteristics which define each level and that will determine which Turkish Gulet you might charter for a crewed Gulet charter in Turkey.
Traditional and Luxury Gulets share many features, including a blending of practicality and tradition in a relaxed style. Historically, Gulets evolved from fishing and cargo vessels into their present profile of a sturdy yacht with a broad beam and wide deck. Constructed in the shipyards of Bodrum, Marmaris, and Istanbul, and along the Black Sea Coast, these vessels are equipped with motors as well as fully functional rigging. However, do not expect to always sail as the beamy nature of the Gulet usually requires engine assistance to move from anchorage to anchorage. The number of passengers a Gulet can be chartered for depends on the boat's size, although most accommodate between eight and twelve people. These vessels have double occupancy staterooms for passengers generally each with ensuite bath and shower and are comfortably equipped. One of the resounding features of the Turkish Gulet is the expansive aft deck. Covered with a sun awning, the aft deck has a wide cushioned area for lounging and a table with chairs for al fresco dining. Gulets offer plenty of room for sunbathing and are equipped with sun mattresses, snorkeling gear, a shoreside tender and usually water skis, a sea kayak or a windsurfer which will be outlined in the Gulet equipment list.
There are some differences between traditional and luxury Gulets. The Traditional Gulet is the best price value and cost includes the yacht, crew and fuel. Additional costs are beverages and food. Meal plans are offered of fresh local Turkish cuisine on a Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) or Half Board (breakfast and lunch) basis. Generally it is possible to include both Full Board and Half Board days in your charter in order to enjoy some dinners on board under the starlight and others ashore in one of the many local Tavernas.
In addition there is usually an 18% Turkish VAT. Crew will be Turkish citizens and at least one should speak English. Finally, you may or may not be able to use the air conditioner at night as the soundproofing of generators and engines were not a building specification of these traditional vessels. The Traditional Gulet is offered at two price levels, which is moderate level and economy level. The quality of the Gulets is reflective of the level of pricing.
Luxury Gulets have been built within the past three to four years. They are constructed of mahogany rather than the pine of Traditional Gulets, creating an interior with refined workmanship. These vessels also offer imported linens, towels and bath products. In addition, the Luxury Gulet engines and generators are fully soundproofed allowing the use of air conditioning at all times. The price of these yachts is reflective of their upgraded features. Menus include fresh Turkish cuisine and international cuisine.
Gulet-Style Sailing Yachts are built with an adjusted design to be able to sail with aluminum rigging and quality sails, so you can enjoy cruising without an engine. However, as with any sailing vessel, the ability to sail is enhanced by a smaller beam measurement, so Gulet-Style Sailing Yachts are not as roomy as the Traditional or Luxury Gulets. However, generally all other amenities are similar to what is offered with Luxury Gulets.
Missy Johnston is a crewed Yacht Charter Broker, who has been offering charter on Turkish Gulets for over 20 years. Missy travels frequently to Turkey to inspect the Gulets and crews available for Gulet charter, and has cruised the southern coast of Turkey in a Gulet doing the famous Blue Voyage a number of times. For more information on Turkey as a yacht and Gulet charter destination, please see: http://www.njcharters.com/destinations/turkey.asp
Traditional and Luxury Gulets share many features, including a blending of practicality and tradition in a relaxed style. Historically, Gulets evolved from fishing and cargo vessels into their present profile of a sturdy yacht with a broad beam and wide deck. Constructed in the shipyards of Bodrum, Marmaris, and Istanbul, and along the Black Sea Coast, these vessels are equipped with motors as well as fully functional rigging. However, do not expect to always sail as the beamy nature of the Gulet usually requires engine assistance to move from anchorage to anchorage. The number of passengers a Gulet can be chartered for depends on the boat's size, although most accommodate between eight and twelve people. These vessels have double occupancy staterooms for passengers generally each with ensuite bath and shower and are comfortably equipped. One of the resounding features of the Turkish Gulet is the expansive aft deck. Covered with a sun awning, the aft deck has a wide cushioned area for lounging and a table with chairs for al fresco dining. Gulets offer plenty of room for sunbathing and are equipped with sun mattresses, snorkeling gear, a shoreside tender and usually water skis, a sea kayak or a windsurfer which will be outlined in the Gulet equipment list.
There are some differences between traditional and luxury Gulets. The Traditional Gulet is the best price value and cost includes the yacht, crew and fuel. Additional costs are beverages and food. Meal plans are offered of fresh local Turkish cuisine on a Full Board (breakfast, lunch and dinner) or Half Board (breakfast and lunch) basis. Generally it is possible to include both Full Board and Half Board days in your charter in order to enjoy some dinners on board under the starlight and others ashore in one of the many local Tavernas.
In addition there is usually an 18% Turkish VAT. Crew will be Turkish citizens and at least one should speak English. Finally, you may or may not be able to use the air conditioner at night as the soundproofing of generators and engines were not a building specification of these traditional vessels. The Traditional Gulet is offered at two price levels, which is moderate level and economy level. The quality of the Gulets is reflective of the level of pricing.
Luxury Gulets have been built within the past three to four years. They are constructed of mahogany rather than the pine of Traditional Gulets, creating an interior with refined workmanship. These vessels also offer imported linens, towels and bath products. In addition, the Luxury Gulet engines and generators are fully soundproofed allowing the use of air conditioning at all times. The price of these yachts is reflective of their upgraded features. Menus include fresh Turkish cuisine and international cuisine.
Gulet-Style Sailing Yachts are built with an adjusted design to be able to sail with aluminum rigging and quality sails, so you can enjoy cruising without an engine. However, as with any sailing vessel, the ability to sail is enhanced by a smaller beam measurement, so Gulet-Style Sailing Yachts are not as roomy as the Traditional or Luxury Gulets. However, generally all other amenities are similar to what is offered with Luxury Gulets.
Missy Johnston is a crewed Yacht Charter Broker, who has been offering charter on Turkish Gulets for over 20 years. Missy travels frequently to Turkey to inspect the Gulets and crews available for Gulet charter, and has cruised the southern coast of Turkey in a Gulet doing the famous Blue Voyage a number of times. For more information on Turkey as a yacht and Gulet charter destination, please see: http://www.njcharters.com/destinations/turkey.asp
Friday, February 6, 2009
Five Simple Steps to Uninstall and Install a Boat Propeller
Sometimes things go wrong with boats. You can't explain how it happened... it just did. You could be using it one day and it suddenly breaks down. You may be getting ready to use it and it just doesn't crank. Anything can happen to the boat. This is true for your boat's propeller as well. However, replacing the propeller doesn't have to be a difficult task as long as you know what you are doing or learn how to do it properly.
Be sure you find the propeller you get will fit your boat. Certain propellers will fit certain boats. You don't want to spend money only to find out that it is the wrong propeller. Use your boat's handbook to help you identify which propeller is right for you. You may find out that you are not limited to a certain propeller type.
Check the propeller's pitch and diameter so that they match the boat's engine. When you have the right propeller, your boat will have the power it needs to get going.
Now that you have the propeller you need, here are some steps to help you remove your old one and replace it with a new one. Don't forget to have tools on hand to help you out.
Five Steps To Replace Your Boat Propeller
Don't remove the prop shaft nut completely just loosen it. You don't want the propeller to go back into the rudder when you get it separated from the shaft. Once you have it loose, then take the nut and washer off.
If it seems you are having some trouble, put some oil onto it and wait to the next day to try messing with it again. If that doesn't seem to do the trick, use some sort of heating device to help loosen it. Try not to scorch anything else while you are doing this trick.
You don't want to use hammers on a boat to make something fit or come off. Hammer vibrations can be sent into the boat's transmissions.
Now that you have the propeller off, be sure to inspect the area for fishing line or anything else that could have gotten caught in it. Inspect all the parts of the boat propeller as well including the nuts and washers.
It's time to replace it with a new one. Be sure you slide it up onto the shaft. When it's on there correctly, you should get a solid smacking sound. Don't use the nut to get it back into place. Use a wrench to tighten it. Above all else, that nut needs to be tight to avoid losing your propeller when it is in use.
Be sure you check your propeller each year for signs of wear and tear. Nothing is worse than being stuck in the middle of the ocean with no propeller.
Some boats may have slightly different parts that hold up a propeller. Should you have any further problems, ask a professional or take a look at your boat's instructional manual for guidance.
Victor Epand is an expert consultant about model boats, boat parts, and model submarines. You will find the best shopping at these sites for model boats, used boat propeller.
Be sure you find the propeller you get will fit your boat. Certain propellers will fit certain boats. You don't want to spend money only to find out that it is the wrong propeller. Use your boat's handbook to help you identify which propeller is right for you. You may find out that you are not limited to a certain propeller type.
Check the propeller's pitch and diameter so that they match the boat's engine. When you have the right propeller, your boat will have the power it needs to get going.
Now that you have the propeller you need, here are some steps to help you remove your old one and replace it with a new one. Don't forget to have tools on hand to help you out.
Five Steps To Replace Your Boat Propeller
Don't remove the prop shaft nut completely just loosen it. You don't want the propeller to go back into the rudder when you get it separated from the shaft. Once you have it loose, then take the nut and washer off.
If it seems you are having some trouble, put some oil onto it and wait to the next day to try messing with it again. If that doesn't seem to do the trick, use some sort of heating device to help loosen it. Try not to scorch anything else while you are doing this trick.
You don't want to use hammers on a boat to make something fit or come off. Hammer vibrations can be sent into the boat's transmissions.
Now that you have the propeller off, be sure to inspect the area for fishing line or anything else that could have gotten caught in it. Inspect all the parts of the boat propeller as well including the nuts and washers.
It's time to replace it with a new one. Be sure you slide it up onto the shaft. When it's on there correctly, you should get a solid smacking sound. Don't use the nut to get it back into place. Use a wrench to tighten it. Above all else, that nut needs to be tight to avoid losing your propeller when it is in use.
Be sure you check your propeller each year for signs of wear and tear. Nothing is worse than being stuck in the middle of the ocean with no propeller.
Some boats may have slightly different parts that hold up a propeller. Should you have any further problems, ask a professional or take a look at your boat's instructional manual for guidance.
Victor Epand is an expert consultant about model boats, boat parts, and model submarines. You will find the best shopping at these sites for model boats, used boat propeller.
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