ELECTRONICS BY GLENN HAYES
Onboard Security Systems
F
rom simple tracking devices to elaborate security systems that can stop would-be thieves in their tracks, there are many options on the market to protect your floating investment. From the budgetminded boater to those requiring top tier security, there are systems that are not just reconfigured home or auto security systems, but are specifically designed to work in tough marine environments.
Simrad’s BoatConnect and SPOT’s Trace security devices.
GOST Watch.
GLENN HAYES is a marine writer and photographer whose background in the marine industry and in marine electronics spans almost three decades and many thousands of miles at sea traveling the world. He can be reached at HAYESSTUDIOS.COM .
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SEPTEMBER 2020
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SPOT Trace: Small yet mighty A simple yet effective budget-minded security option that works as well on a skiff as it does on larger craft is the SPOT Trace. This tiny waterproof device measuring just 2.69 inches by 2.02 inches can be easily mounted anywhere. The technology within allows for advanced tracking virtually anywhere in the world via a subscription. This technology is composed of the tracking device, an app on your smartphone and a subscription through SPOT services utilizing the Globalstar satellite system. Should your boat move from its current location, you are instantly notified via email or text, and the vessel’s movements can be followed almost in real time utilizing SPOT Mapping on your phone or computer. With its built-in vibration sensor, the Trace can notify you as soon as it detects movement. Other features of the system include a dock mode that can detect movement for a boat stored on the water, it sends alerts if the boat is powered down, and there’s a low-battery warning. Annual subscriptions are available for as little as $9.95 a month or flex plans with a one-month minimum for $12.50 a month. With the Trace costing under $100 and sometimes less than $50 with rebates, it’s a great budget option. Simrad BoatConnect: No strings attached Simrad offers a vessel-tracking device called BoatConnect. Made up of a Hub unit, optional sensors, an app and a subscription, this system offers more than just tracking and movement alerts. Standard features also include trip history reports, live weather at the boat’s location and battery status. Optional sensors include water sensors, entry sensors and temperature
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sensors. All of these are capable of sending information to the owner’s smartphone via the free app. A “no strings attached” subscription runs $19.99 a month. With the hub selling for $99, simple set-up and installation, and reasonable subscription rates, BoatConnect is a good option for those looking for an inexpensive security system with some added features. GOST: Top tier tech For those looking for a top tier sophisticated system that can be as simple or as comprehensive as necessary, check out offerings from Global Ocean Security Technologies (GOST). This company’s products include systems that work as well for multi-engine center consoles as they do in their expanded format for superyachts. The GOST Apparition system is controlled through interactive touch screens (up to 16 throughout the vessel). These screens can be uploaded with actual photos of the vessel’s interior and exterior with sensor locations marked directly on them. The displays can control up to 192 sensors, as well as 32 interior and exterior doors and hatches. Zones can be set up within the alarm system to control areas such as crew quarters or even liquor cabinets, restricting access and control to only those approved in the system. With both wired and wireless sensors and wireless expanders available, yachts of any size can be equipped. In addition to security sensors controlling and alerting access, entry and intrusion, there are many other sensors available, such as high water, low voltage, motion, shore power loss, infrared beam sensors, GPS tracking, and smoke and heat detection. GOST even offers the Cloak system; if unauthorized access occurs, the system activates a thick fog that eliminates viability, an ear piercing alarm and disorienting strobes to repel an intruder before any theft or damage can occur. GOST President and CEO Jay Keenan explained to me that his security systems also utilize the Inmarsat satellite system, allowing true instant, global satellite access and monitoring no matter where in the world the vessel is located. He demonstrated to me that remote access and control is available through an updated and refined website that offers a comprehensive suite of controls and tracking capabilities. From simple worldwide satellite tracking to the ultimate yacht security, GOST has a system that fits any vessel’s needs. ★
TOP PHOTO BY GLENN HAYES
Tools to help you protect your prized possession.
