Product Overview: FURUNO IC-306 Inmarsat-C MES
The FURUNO IC-306 is a classic, compact, and highly reliable Inmarsat-C satellite communications terminal. It was a workhorse for maritime safety and data communications, designed to meet the requirements of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) for vessels operating in Sea Area A3 (approximately beyond 20-50 nautical miles from shore, covered by geostationary satellites).
Key Features & Description:
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Core Functionality:
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Store-and-Forward Data Messaging: Sends and receives text/data messages, emails, and reports via the Inmarsat satellite network. It does not support voice calls.
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Two-Way Packet Data: Ideal for sending position reports, engine data, or e-commerce applications.
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GMDSS Compliance (Key Feature):
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Distress Alerting: The primary purpose is for initiating digital Distress Alerts by pressing the dedicated red button. This sends a distress message with the vessel’s identity and position (if connected to a GPS) to a Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC).
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Safety & Urgency Communications: Sends and receives Maritime Safety Information (MSI) via SafetyNET (broadcast) and FleetNET (group calls).
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Inmarsat C is the designated satellite system for Sea Area A3 under GMDSS.
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Typical Hardware Components:
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Below Deck Unit (BDU): The main electronics unit.
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Data Terminal/Control Unit: Often a dedicated display/keyboard or connected to a PC with FURUNO software.
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Antenna: A small, omnidirectional (non-pointing) antenna housed in a radome, typically mounted on the ship’s mast.
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Common Applications:
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Mandatory GMDSS equipment on A3 vessels.
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Position reporting for fleet management.
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Receiving weather charts and navigational warnings via SafetyNET.
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Sending and receiving emails and standard data reports.
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