Voyage data recorder

VDR DR-100

This image shows the AMI Marine ltd Float Free Capsule used on ships to store a minimum of 48 hours of recorded data. if the vessel sinks the capsule case (white) will open and release the Yellow capsule from inside, this capsule will then float to the surface and emit a distress signal to alert shore side authorities.

A fixed Data Capsule of VDR mounted on a container ship

Ocean Voyager is a Turkey-based manufacturer of maritime electronics, best known for producing Voyage Data Recorders (VDR) and Simplified Voyage Data Recorders (S-VDR) that comply with international maritime standards. The company develops integrated solutions that combine advanced hardware with user-friendly software interfaces, focusing on safety, compliance, and operational efficiency in the maritime industry.

History and Scope of Operations

Ocean Voyager was established to meet the growing demand for secure and standardized data recording in the shipping industry. Since its foundation, the company has focused on the design and manufacturing of VDR systems in compliance with SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) and IMO (International Maritime Organization) regulations. Its solutions serve a variety of vessel types, including commercial cargo ships and passenger vessels, across global markets.

Product Range

Ocean Voyager’s product line is designed to accommodate different operational needs and vessel types:

• DR-100: A full-featured VDR system that meets SOLAS requirements and is available with fixed and float-free capsule options.
• DR-100S: A compact variant of the DR-100, retaining core functionalities while offering a simplified design.
• DR-100L: An optional, non-mandatory extension module that enhances the overall system capability.

All models support up to 48 hours of protected capsule data recording and 30 days of internal system storage in accordance with IMO MSC.333(90). The systems are capable of recording radar and ECDIS screens, audio from bridge and VHF sources, and a wide range of serial, digital, and analog signals.

Technical Specifications

Key specifications of the DR-100 model include:

• Capsule types: Fixed Protective Capsule (FPC) and Float Free Capsule (FFC)
• Capsule recording: Up to 48 hours
• Internal system recording: Up to 30 days
• Video inputs: 4 channels (Radar/ECDIS, via VGA or UDP)
• Audio: 10 channels (bridge microphones), 2 channels (VHF)
• Data inputs: 16 serial, 64 digital, 8 analog channels
• Network: EN 61162-450 LAN interface
• Power supply: AC 100–240V input for DAU; DC 24V for all other modules

Compliance and Certifications

Ocean Voyager VDR systems meet a wide range of international maritime standards and regulatory requirements, including:

• SOLAS 74 Reg. V/18 and V/20
• IMO MSC.333(90) – Data recording performance requirements
• IMO Resolutions: A.694(17), MSC.191(79), MSC.302(87)
• IEC and EN standards: EN 60945:2002, EN 61162 series, EN 61996-1, EN IEC 62288, EN IEC 62923-1

These certifications ensure that Ocean Voyager systems are suitable for use on various ship classes, including cargo vessels, high-speed craft, and passenger ships.

Application Areas

Ocean Voyager systems are used in multiple aspects of maritime operations, such as:

• Post-incident investigation and data recovery
• Heavy weather damage analysis
• Playback for crew training and simulation
• Preventive maintenance and performance monitoring
• Regulatory compliance and audit documentation

Software Capabilities

The included “Live Player” software allows for real-time monitoring and historical data playback, enabling users to view synchronized radar images, audio recordings, and sensor data. This supports training, accident analysis, and operational optimization efforts.

Market Presence

Ocean Voyager products are used across multiple regions, including Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, and are increasingly adopted by commercial fleets. The systems are suitable for both newbuild installations and retrofit projects, offering flexible solutions for various maritime sectors. Their combination of affordability, high technical standards, and easy integration makes them a notable choice among VDR manufacturers.

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References

• Ocean Voyager Official Website
• SOLAS and IMO regulations: imo.org

See also

• Event data recorder
• Emergency position-indicating radiobeacon station (EPIRB)
• Emergency locator beacon
• Flight recorder
• Train event recorder

External links

• IMO Voyage data recorders