Electronic Monitoring, as seen in the October issue of Marlin Magazine, written by Capt. Karl Anderson
In the past six or so years, several very progressive and forward-thinking companies started developing integral onboard vessel monitoring systems. These systems have been the beneficiary of a controller area network, or CANbus, technology, where sensors, actuators or micro-controllers communicate with each other without the use of a host computer. The information gathered from these processors or sensors is able to flow back and forth, where previously this kind of data flowed one way from the sensor to the host and perhaps the end-user’s display.
The gplink surface vessel management system, previously only accessible by large fleets, military and commercial vessels, is now available to provide all Caterpillar-powered boats with a real-time vessel monitoring and support system. gplink protects a boat while away from or at the dock by monitoring engines and onboard critical systems, including bilge levels, fire alarms, low batteries, power interruption and engine diagnostic codes — all while tracking the precise location of a boat anywhere in the world. gplink utilizes dual-band technology with GSM communications, as well as the Iridium satellite system for location tracking, monitoring, emergency notification and communication. gplink uses both of these extensive networks to provide worldwide coverage and ensure that connections are not only reliable, but affordable as well. Through the gplink secure Internet interface at gplink.com, the location and status of a vessel are accessible anytime from any location. Certified CAT technicians monitor routine, as well as unexpected, maintenance needs and provide immediate technical assistance in the event of a problem.