VDR (Voyage Data Recorder) is the maritime version of the black box that airlines employ. The system is typically two-part, consisting of the data-collecting unit, which is connected to a protective capsule mounted on deck designed to withstand fire, deep sea pressure shock, and penetration. It is often used to record navigation incidents but also provides useful data to analyze the effects of heavy weather and monitoring of performance, as well as crew training.
Up-grading
Many ships fitted with VDR/SVDR technology meet the bare minimum regulatory requirements, but Members are encouraged to think about using the equipment for incident investigation, preventive maintenance and bridge team training as and for recording near misses. There are other packages which can extend the duration for which VDR data will be available beyond the current minimum of 12 hours. A decision should be taken as to whether or not to upgrade the equipment.
The system is built around an industrial grade computer that performs https://digitaldealdataroom.info/learn-how-much-should-a-data-room-cost-in-reality/ several functions, including processing and encoding data from sensors. The data is stored in a capsule that is built to withstand an incident and provide proof of what transpired on the vessel. The key components of the VDR system include a collection unit that is located on the bridge, a separate power source as well as an interface unit and batteries for backup. The unit collects data from integrated sources, including microphones for recording bridge audio, and then sends it to a Concentrator where a series NMEA 0183 sentence is interpreted and encoded before being sent to the final recorded media.