[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 207 (Friday, October 26, 2007)]
[Notices]
[Pages 60826-60828]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-21093]



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DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

RIN 0648-XD04


Vessel Monitoring Systems; Approved Mobile Transmitting Units for 
Use in the Fisheries off the West Coast States and in the Western 
Pacific; Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery, Open Access Sector

AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Commerce.

ACTION: Notice of vessel monitoring systems; type-approval.

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SUMMARY: This document provides notice of vessel monitoring systems 
(VMS) approved by NOAA for use by vessels participating in the Pacific 
Coast Groundfish Fishery, Open Access Sector and sets forth relevant 
features of the VMS.

ADDRESSES: To obtain copies of the list of NOAA-approved VMS mobile 
transmitting units and NOAA-approved VMS communications service 
providers, please contact the VMS Support Center at phone 888-219-9228, 
fax 301-427-0049, or write to NOAA Fisheries Office for Law Enforcement 
(OLE), VMS Support Center, 8484 Georgia Avenue, Suite 415, Silver 
Spring, MD 20910. For more addresses regarding approved VMS, see the 
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section, under the heading VMS Provider 
Address.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The public may acquire this notice, 
installation/activation checklists, and relevant updates by calling the 
VMS support center, phone 888-219-9228, fax 301-427-0049. For questions 
regarding the status of VMS provider evaluations, contact Jonathan 
Pinkerton, National VMS Program Manager, phone 301-427-2300; fax 301-
427-0049. For questions regarding the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery, 
Open Access Sector VMS requirement, contact Joe Albert, Northwest 
Divisional VMS Program Manager, phone 206-526-6135.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. VMS Mobile Transceiver Units

A. BOATRACS - FMTC/G

    The Boatracs satellite communications VMS transmitting units that 
meet the minimum technical requirements for the Pacific Coast 
Groundfish Fishery, Open Access Sector is the BOATRACS - FMTC/G. The 
address for the Boatracs distributor dealer contact is provided under 
the heading ``VMS Provider Address''.
    The FMTC/G is an integrated GPS two-way satellite communications 
system, consisting of two major hardware components, the Mobile 
Communication Transceiver (MCT) and the Enhanced Display Unit (EDU). 
The MCT contains the antenna and integrated GPS which communicates with 
the satellite and contains the operating circuitry and memory. The EDU 
is a shock and splash resistant display and key board unit consisting 
of, a liquid crystal display, keyboard, with adjustable contrast, 
brightness, and audible alerts. A back light illuminates the display 
for night view. The EDU has message waiting, no signal, and audible 
message received indicators.
    The Mobile Communications Transceiver is 6.7 inches high, 11.4 
inches wide and weighs 11 pounds. The base of the unit is 6.595 inches 
in diameter. The MCT draws approximately 2.3 amps of current from the 
power supply while transmitting and 1.2 amps when vessel is idle.
    The Enhanced Display Unit is a hardened and splash proof keyboard 
display unit with a 15-line X 40-character screen that allows for both 
text and graphics. It is 12.72 inches wide, 9.3 inches long, 2.21 
inches in depth, and weighs 3 pounds and is holster mounted in the 
cabin.
    A vessel owner may purchase this system by contacting the entity 
identified in this notice under the heading ``VMS Provider Address''. 
The owner should identify himself or herself as a vessel owner issued a 
permit to operate in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery, Open Access 
Sector, so the transceiver set can be properly configured.

B. Faria WatchDog 750VMS with VTERM

    The Faria WatchDog 750VMS with VTERM Features: The transceiver 
consists of an integrated dual model GPS/GSM/GPRS/Iridium Satellite 
Communicator mounted in the wheelhouse and antennas mounted atop the 
vessel. The Faria VTERM is a touch screen display provides the 
capability to process electronic forms, declarations, and send e-mail. 
A configuration option is available to automatically send daily status 
reports to a private e-mail address and position reports to a secure 
web site where the data is provided on a map and in tabular form. A 2-
inch user interface is also included with this system that displays if 
the MTU is operating properly and can send emergency notification 
messages to up to four e-mail addresses and/or telephone numbers. The 
unit is pre-configured and tested for NMFS VMS (non-GMDSS) operations. 
Authorized dealers who are listed at http://www.vmstracking.com provide 
satellite commissioning services.
    Automatic GPS position reporting starts after transceiver 
installation and power activation onboard the vessel. The unit is a car 
radio sized transceiver powered by any 9 to 16 VDC power supply. It is 
factory configured for automatic reduced position transmissions when 
the vessel is stationary (i.e., in port) which allows for port stays in 
a reduced power state and without the need for unit shut down. The unit 
restarts normal position transmission automatically when the vessel 
goes to sea.
    The Faria WatchDog 750VMS has an omni-directional Iridium, GPS, and 
GSM/GPRS antennas, providing operation from +/- 5 degrees above or 
below the horizon anywhere on earth. The GSM/GPRS capability gives the 
system the additional ability to communicate through the Cingular 
wireless network where available.
    A vessel owner may purchase this system by contacting the entity 
identified in this notice under the heading ``VMS Provider Address''. 
The owner should identify himself or herself as a vessel owner issued a 
permit to operate in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery, Open Access 
Sector, so the transceiver set can be properly configured.

C. The Thrane & Thrane Sailor (TT-3026D) Gold VMS

    The Thrane & Thrane Sailor Gold VMS(TT-3026D)have been found to 
meet the minimum technical requirements for vessels issued permits to 
operate in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery, Open Access Sector. 
The address for the Thrane & Thrane distributor contact is provided in 
this notice under the heading VMS Provider Addresses.
    The TT-3026D Gold VMS both feature an integrated GPS/Inmarsat-C 
unit. The unit is factory pre-configured for NMFS VMS operations (non-
Global Maritime Distress & Safety System (non-GMDSS). The Thrane and 
Thrane Gold VMS includes a marine grade monitor with keyboard and 
integrated mouse. Satellite commissioning services are provided by 
Thrane & Thrane personnel.
    Automatic GPS position reporting starts after transceiver 
installation and power activation onboard the vessel. The unit is an 
integrated transceiver/antenna/GPS design using a floating 10 to 32 VDC 
power supply. The unit is

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configured for automatic reduced position transmissions when the vessel 
is stationary (i.e., in port). It allows for port stays without power 
drain or power shut down. The unit restarts normal position 
transmission automatically when the vessel goes to sea.
    The TT-3026D provides operation down to +/-15 degree angles. The 
unit has the capability of two-way communications to send electronic 
forms and to receive e-mail and other messages. A configuration option 
is available to automatically send position reports to a private 
address, such as a fleet management company.
    To use the TT-3026D the vessel owner will need to establish an 
Inmarsat-C system use contract with an approved Inmarsat-C 
communications service provider. The owner will be required to complete 
the Inmarsat-C Registration for Service Activation for Maritime Mobile 
Earth Station. The owner should consult with Thrane & Thrane when 
completing this form.
    Thrane & Thrane personnel will perform the following services 
before shipment: (1) configure the transceiver according to OLE 
specifications for vessels issued permits to operate in the Pacific 
Coast Groundfish Fishery, Open Access Sector; (2) download the 
predetermined NMFS position reporting and broadcast command 
identification numbers into the unit; (3) test the unit to ensure 
operation when installation has been completed on the vessel; and (4) 
forward the Inmarsat service provider and the transceiver identifying 
information to OLE.
    A vessel owner may purchase this system by contacting the entity 
identified in this notice under the heading ``VMS Provider Address''. 
The owner should identify himself or herself as a vessel owner issued a 
permit to operate in the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery, Open Access 
Sector, so the transceiver set can be properly configured.

II. Communications Service Providers

    OLE has approved the below-listed communications service providers: 
Faria GSM/Iridium, Stratos Global, and VIZADA satellite communications 
services for the Pacific Coast Groundfish Fishery, Open Access Sector.

A. Qualcomm Satellite Service

    Qualcomm Enterprise Services delivers integrated wireless 
applications and services to businesses around the world. We enable 
enterprises to operate at peak performance and improve the quality of 
life for customers in their value chain. Mobile workforce, enterprise 
management, and machine-to-machine communications are some of the key 
applications being mobilized by enterprises today.
    Vessel owners wishing to use Qualcomm services will need to 
purchase a Boatracs FMTC/G transceiver. Information regarding 
configuration, installation, and service activation procedures for the 
transceiver can be obtained from Boatracs. The contact information for 
Boatracs is located under the heading of VMS provider addresses.

B. Faria GSM/Iridium Service

    The Faria Watchdog GSM/Iridium Service is a dual mode GSM/GPRS and 
Iridium platform to ensure that connections are highly reliable, near 
real time and cost effective. The primary channel is the GSM/GPRS and 
the secondary channel is Iridium.
    The owner must confirm the operation and communications service to 
ensure that position reports are automatically sent to and received by 
OLE before leaving on a fishing trip under VMS. OLE does not regard the 
fishing vessel as being in compliance until position reports are 
automatically received. For confirmation purposes, contact the VMS 
support center, phone 888-219-9228, fax 301-427-0049.

C. INMARSAT-C Communications Providers

    It is recommended, for vendor warranty and customer service 
purposes, that the vessel owner keep for his or her records and that 
Stratos Global or VIZADA have on record the following identifying 
information: (a) Signed and dated receipts and contracts; (b) 
transceiver serial number; (c) VIZADA or Stratos Global customer 
number, user name and password; (d) e-mail address of transceiver; (e) 
Inmarsat identification number; (f) owner name; (g) vessel name; (h) 
vessel documentation or registration number; and (i) mobile earth 
station license (FCC license).
    OLE will provide an installation and activation checklist which the 
vessel owner must follow. The vessel owner must sign a statement on the 
checklist certifying compliance with the installation procedures and 
return the checklist to OLE. Installation can be performed by an 
electronics specialist, and the installation cost is paid by the owner.
    The owner must confirm the operation and communications service to 
ensure that position reports are automatically sent to and received by 
OLE before leaving on a fishing trip under VMS. OLE does not regard the 
fishing vessel as being in compliance until position reports are 
automatically received. For confirmation purposes, contact the VMS 
support center, phone 888-219-9228, fax 301-427-0049.

C1. Stratos Global

    Stratos Global is a provider Vessel Monitoring Services to the 
fishing industry. By installing an approved OLE Imarsat-C transceiver 
on the vessel, fishermen can send and receive E-mail, to and from land, 
transceiver automatically sends vessel position reports to OLE, and is 
fully compliant with the International Coast Guard Search and Rescue 
Centers. Stratos Global Vessel Monitoring System Services are being 
sold through Thrane and Thrane Inc. For the Thrane and Thrane and 
Stratos Global addresses, look under the heading ``VMS Provider 
Address''.

C2. VIZADA Satellite Services

    Inmarsat-C is a store-and-forward data messaging service. Inmarsat 
C allows users to send and receive information virtually anywhere in 
the world, on land, at sea, and in the air. Inmarsat-C supports a wide 
variety of applications including Internet e-mail, position and weather 
reporting, a free daily news service, and remote equipment monitoring 
and control. Mariners can use Inmarsat-C free of charge to send 
critical safety at sea messages as part of the U.S. Coast Guard's 
Automated Mutual-Assistance Vessel Rescue system and of the NOAA 
Shipboard Environmental Acquisition System programs. VIZADA Vessel 
Monitoring System Services is being sold through Thrane & Thrane, Inc. 
For the Thrane & Thrane and VIZADA addresses, look under the heading 
``VMS Provider Address''.
    VIZADA and Stratos Global Features offered through Thrane & Thrane: 
Customer Service supports the security and privacy of vessel accounts 
and messages with the following: (a) password authentication for vessel 
owners or agents and for OLE to prevent unauthorized changes or 
inquiries; and (b) separation of private messages from OLE messages. 
(OLE requires VMS-related position reports, only.) Billing is separated 
between accounts for the vessel owner and the OLE. VMS position reports 
and vessel-initiated messaging are paid for by the vessel owner. 
Messaging initiated from OLE operations center is paid for by NOAA.
    Thrane & Thrane provides customer service for VIZADA and Stratos 
Global users to support and establish two-way transmission of 
transceiver unit configuration commands between the transceiver and 
land-based control

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centers. This supports OLE's message needs and, optionally, fishermen's 
private message needs.
    The vessel owner can configure automatic position reports to be 
sent to a private address, such as to a fleet management company. The 
vessel can send and receive private e-mail and other messages when the 
transceiver has such an input device as a laptop or personal computer 
attached.
    Vessel owners wishing to use Stratos Global or VIZADA services will 
need to purchase an Inmarsat-C transceiver approved for the fishery. 
The owner will need to complete an Inmarsat-C system use contract with 
Stratos Global or VIZADA, including a mobile earth station license (FCC 
requirement). The transceiver will need to be commissioned with 
Inmarsat according to Stratos Global's or VIZADA instructions. The 
owner should refer to and follow the configuration, installation, and 
service activation procedures for the specific transceiver purchased.

III. VMS Provider Addresses

    Boatracs corporate offices address is 9155 Brown Deer Rd, Suite 8, 
San Diego, CA 92121. Telephone numbers are toll free (877) 468-8722 and 
direct dialed (858) 458-8100. The primary point of contact is Debbie 
Foste, Manager of Fisheries, e-mail [email protected], direct 
telephone number (877) 468-8722 ext. 105, and Winston Richardson, e-
mail [email protected], direct telephone number (858) 458-8106.
    Faria Watchdog Inc., authorized reseller. Reseller information can 
be found on the internet website at www.vmstracking.com. Alternatively 
vessel owners may contact, Faria WatchDog Inc., 385 Norwich-New London 
Turnpike, Uncasville, CT 06382, 1-877-888-5569, 860-848-2704 fax, 
[email protected] e-mail.
    For Thrane & Thrane Sailor 3026D Gold VMS, Stratos Global or VIZADA 
information contact Lauri Paul, Marine Products, Thrane & Thrane, Inc., 
509 Viking Drive, Suite K, L & M, Virginia Beach, VA 23452; voice: 757-
753-9450 or 757-463-9557; fax: 757-463-9581, e-mail: [email protected]; 
website: http://www.us.thrane.com/.

    Dated: October 22, 2007.
William T. Hogarth,
Assistant Administrator for Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries 
Service.
[FR Doc. E7-21093 Filed 10-25-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3510-22-S