MARETEK MASTER CALL ALARM UNIT MCA-M01 AUTO PILOT MASTER CALL STATION

The MARETEK MCA-M01 is a dedicated, robust marine control unit designed to provide immediate and unambiguous override control of the vessel’s autopilot system from a remote station. Its primary function is safety and collision avoidance, allowing the helmsman or watch officer to instantly silence alarms and take manual steering control in critical situations.

In the event of an autopilot system failure, off-course alarm, or any emergency requiring immediate manual intervention, the MCA-M01 provides a single, centralized point of action. Instead of searching for controls, the operator hits the large, prominent button to:

1. Acknowledge and silence the audible autopilot alarm.

2. Automatically disengage the autopilot system.

3. Seamlessly transfer steering control to the manual (non-follow-up) or emergency steering mode at that station.

This ensures swift human response to potential danger, making it a vital component for bridge resource management and safety compliance.

• Large, Illuminated Call Button: A prominent mushroom-headed or large push button, typically red. It is often backlit with a legend like “MASTER CALL” or “AUTO PILOT OFF” for clear visibility in all lighting conditions.

• Integrated Alarm Buzzer/Silencer: The unit contains its own audible alarm (buzzer) that activates on autopilot fault. Pressing the button immediately silences this local alarm.

• Relay Output Contacts: It provides heavy-duty, changeover relay contacts that interface directly with the autopilot control unit. These contacts send the definitive “autopilot disengage” command.

• Rugged Marine Construction: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment:

  • Housing: Durable, corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., polyester powder-coated aluminum or stainless steel).

  • Ingress Protection: High IP Rating (e.g., IP56 or higher), making it dust-tight and protected against powerful water jets.

  • Front Panel: Robust, waterproof design (min. IP66).

• Simple & Reliable Operation: The design philosophy is intentional simplicity for crisis situations—one button, one clear action.

• Multiple Station Configuration: Typically, multiple MCA-M01 units can be installed at various critical locations on the bridge (e.g., main console, bridge wings, aft control station). All are wired in parallel, allowing alarm silencing and autopilot disengagement from any station.

• Main Steering Console (Primary)

• Port and Starboard Bridge Wing Control Stations

• Aft Control Stations (on certain vessels)

• Near radar/ECDIS consoles for quick access by the Officer of the Watch.

• Supply Voltage: 24VDC (standard marine DC) or 110/220VAC.

• Relay Contact Rating: Usually 5A-10A at 250VAC, suitable for switching autopilot control circuits.

• Audible Alarm: Integrated buzzer, ~85 dB.

• Mounting: Surface or flush mount on console.

• Compliance: Designed to meet relevant marine standards (IEC 60945, SOLAS, Class Society rules where applicable).