Speed Log
A speed log measures the ship's actual speed through the water, which is not the same figure a GPS reports as speed over ground, and it is what feeds squat and manoeuvring calculations that current alone cannot supply.
Read more — Speed Log explained ▾
What sets the speed log apart
A speed log measures the ship's own speed, either through the surrounding water or over the seabed, and feeds that figure to ECDIS, radar vector calculations, the autopilot and engine performance monitoring. It is not interchangeable with GPS-derived speed over ground: GPS tells the ship how fast it is covering distance across the earth, including the effect of current, while a true speed log measures motion relative to the water itself, which is what manoeuvring, squat and set-and-drift calculations actually need.
Main components and types
Electromagnetic log
A sensor probe protrudes slightly through the hull and measures the small voltage induced as water flows past it, giving speed through water on the fore-aft axis and, on dual-axis units, athwartship speed as well, which matters during berthing on larger ships.
Doppler log
An acoustic transducer sends a signal toward the seabed and measures the frequency shift of the return, giving speed over ground while the seabed is within range, typically up to a few hundred metres of water depth; beyond that range it reverts to measuring against a water layer instead, giving speed through water without always making the switch obvious to the user.
Sensor housing
Many logs use a retractable housing so the sensor can be withdrawn for cleaning or inspection without dry-docking the ship, sealed by a valve when retracted.
Selection and sizing
- Single-axis logs cover fore-aft speed only; dual-axis logs add transverse speed, useful for ships that need close manoeuvring data during berthing.
- Doppler bottom-tracking range against the ship's typical operating depths, since deep-water passages rely on water-track mode instead.
- Retractable versus fixed sensor housing, weighed against maintenance access and the hull maintenance schedule.
Regulations and class
SOLAS Chapter V requires ships above a certain size on international voyages to carry a speed and distance measuring device, and IMO performance standards set accuracy requirements for it. Class surveys check the transducer seacock or valve for watertight integrity, since it is a hull penetration below the waterline.
Typical faults
| Fault | Cause | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor fouling | Marine growth on the electromagnetic sensor face | Reading drifts and typically underreads actual speed |
| Bottom-lock loss | Doppler log operating in water too deep for seabed return | Silent switch to water-track mode, speed over ground accuracy lost without a clear warning |
| Retraction mechanism seizure | Corrosion or lack of exercise of the housing | Sensor cannot be withdrawn for maintenance, forcing a dry-dock delay |
| Calibration bias | Hull cleaning or repainting changing flow characteristics at the sensor | Systematic speed error across the whole operating range |
What to look for in a supplier
- Transducer material and coating compatible with the ship's hull coating regime.
- Reliability record of the retractable housing mechanism.
- Calibration support after installation, hull cleaning, or dry-docking.
- Standard data output, typically NMEA, compatible with the existing bridge systems.
GPS speed over ground looking correct on the display is not proof the log is working — through-water speed is what manoeuvring and squat calculations actually rely on, and only the log measures it independently of current.
14 manufacturers · 72 models
Furuno
11- Sensor or transmitter failure caused by electronics, RF, antenna or transducer faults, noticed as missing or degraded navigation data
- External sensor-input failure caused by GNSS, heading, speed or network faults, noticed as alarms, frozen data or misaligned overlays
- Display/processor failure caused by power, cooling, storage or software faults, noticed as blank screen, rebooting or unavailable functions
- Antenna/transducer/cable damage caused by weather, water ingress, fouling or impact, noticed as weak, intermittent or implausible signals
- Incorrect configuration or calibration caused by maintenance or operator error, noticed as persistent disagreement with independent references
- Sensor or transmitter failure caused by electronics, RF, antenna or transducer faults, noticed as missing or degraded navigation data
- External sensor-input failure caused by GNSS, heading, speed or network faults, noticed as alarms, frozen data or misaligned overlays
- Display/processor failure caused by power, cooling, storage or software faults, noticed as blank screen, rebooting or unavailable functions
- Antenna/transducer/cable damage caused by weather, water ingress, fouling or impact, noticed as weak, intermittent or implausible signals
- Incorrect configuration or calibration caused by maintenance or operator error, noticed as persistent disagreement with independent references
- Sensor or transmitter failure caused by electronics, RF, antenna or transducer faults, noticed as missing or degraded navigation data
- External sensor-input failure caused by GNSS, heading, speed or network faults, noticed as alarms, frozen data or misaligned overlays
- Display/processor failure caused by power, cooling, storage or software faults, noticed as blank screen, rebooting or unavailable functions
- Antenna/transducer/cable damage caused by weather, water ingress, fouling or impact, noticed as weak, intermittent or implausible signals
- Incorrect configuration or calibration caused by maintenance or operator error, noticed as persistent disagreement with independent references
- Loss of sensor input or damaged cabling causes missing, frozen or implausible navigation data
- Antenna, transducer or scanner faults reduce detection or measurement performance and generate equipment alarms
- Power-supply or cooling faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of function
- Configuration or interface faults cause disagreement between systems or missing data on connected equipment
- Display, control or processing faults cause unstable operation, error messages or inability to select required functions
- Loss of sensor input or damaged cabling causes missing, frozen or implausible navigation data
- Antenna, transducer or scanner faults reduce detection or measurement performance and generate equipment alarms
- Power-supply or cooling faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of function
- Configuration or interface faults cause disagreement between systems or missing data on connected equipment
- Display, control or processing faults cause unstable operation, error messages or inability to select required functions
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to other bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable functions
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Sensor fouling caused by marine growth, paint or debris, resulting in low or unstable speed indication
- Transducer or cabling fault caused by water ingress or electrical damage, resulting in loss of speed data
- Calibration drift caused by sensor aging or installation changes, resulting in persistent disagreement with expected speed
- Processor or display failure caused by power or electronics faults, resulting in blank or frozen indication
- Interface failure caused by network or serial-data faults, resulting in missing speed input at radar, ECDIS or other systems
- Sensor fouling caused by marine growth, paint or debris, resulting in low or unstable speed indication
- Transducer or cabling fault caused by water ingress or electrical damage, resulting in loss of speed data
- Calibration drift caused by sensor aging or installation changes, resulting in persistent disagreement with expected speed
- Processor or display failure caused by power or electronics faults, resulting in blank or frozen indication
- Interface failure caused by network or serial-data faults, resulting in missing speed input at radar, ECDIS or other systems
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
Raytheon Anschütz
9- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- High accuracy with electromagnetic Doppler measurement, no moving parts to wear out
- Seamless integration with Raytheon Anschütz autopilot for instant speed feedback
- Low maintenance requirement compared with mechanical pitot tubes or paddle wheels
- Proven reliability on vessels equipped with the full Raytheon autopilot suite
- Calibration is tied to the autopilot software, limiting independent use
- Sensor performance can degrade over time (aging of EM transducers) requiring periodic recalibration
- Standalone operation is limited; not ideal for ships using a different autopilot brand
- Potential electromagnetic interference in heavily instrumented bridge areas
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
- Sensor or gyro fault caused by wear, fouling, damage or electronics failure, resulting in lost, unstable or inaccurate navigation data
- Power-supply failure caused by breaker, converter or wiring problems, resulting in loss of indication
- Processor or display fault caused by electronics or software problems, resulting in frozen, blank or erroneous output
- Interface or network failure caused by cabling or configuration faults, resulting in missing data at connected bridge equipment
- Calibration, alignment or configuration error caused by incorrect setup or maintenance, resulting in persistent disagreement with independent references
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
SAM Electronics
8
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- No rotating components – virtually zero mechanical wear and low maintenance
- High measurement accuracy (±0.1 kn) across a wide speed range
- Fast response time suitable for dynamic positioning and fuel‑efficiency monitoring
- Compact installation on hull with minimal protrusion
- Integrated data output compatible with common bridge consoles
- Performance degrades in low‑conductivity water (e.g., fresh or brackish water)
- Sensitive to hull fouling and magnetic interference from nearby equipment
- Requires periodic calibration; loss of calibration data has been reported on legacy units
- Limited redundancy – many operators pair it with a mechanical log for safety
- Sensor or antenna fault caused by fouling, damage, wear or water ingress, resulting in loss, weak response or degraded navigation data
- Power-supply failure caused by breaker, converter or wiring problems, resulting in loss of indication
- Processor or display fault caused by electronics or software problems, resulting in frozen, blank or erroneous output
- Interface or network failure caused by cabling or configuration faults, resulting in missing data at connected bridge equipment
- Calibration, alignment or configuration error caused by incorrect setup or maintenance, resulting in persistent disagreement with independent navigation references
- Sensor or antenna fault caused by fouling, damage, wear or water ingress, resulting in loss, weak response or degraded navigation data
- Power-supply failure caused by breaker, converter or wiring problems, resulting in loss of indication
- Processor or display fault caused by electronics or software problems, resulting in frozen, blank or erroneous output
- Interface or network failure caused by cabling or configuration faults, resulting in missing data at connected bridge equipment
- Calibration, alignment or configuration error caused by incorrect setup or maintenance, resulting in persistent disagreement with independent navigation references
- Sensor or antenna fault caused by fouling, damage, wear or water ingress, resulting in loss, weak response or degraded navigation data
- Power-supply failure caused by breaker, converter or wiring problems, resulting in loss of indication
- Processor or display fault caused by electronics or software problems, resulting in frozen, blank or erroneous output
- Interface or network failure caused by cabling or configuration faults, resulting in missing data at connected bridge equipment
- Calibration, alignment or configuration error caused by incorrect setup or maintenance, resulting in persistent disagreement with independent navigation references
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Sensor or antenna fault caused by fouling, damage, wear or water ingress, resulting in loss, weak response or degraded navigation data
- Power-supply failure caused by breaker, converter or wiring problems, resulting in loss of indication
- Processor or display fault caused by electronics or software problems, resulting in frozen, blank or erroneous output
- Interface or network failure caused by cabling or configuration faults, resulting in missing data at connected bridge equipment
- Calibration, alignment or configuration error caused by incorrect setup or maintenance, resulting in persistent disagreement with independent navigation references
Sperry Marine
8
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- High accuracy Doppler measurement suitable for performance monitoring
- Full standalone operation when VisionMaster integration is not used
- IMO type‑approved, meeting international navigation standards
- Designed specifically for seamless integration with Sperry Marine bridge consoles
- Robust transducer construction for long‑term marine service
- Optimal functionality relies on VisionMaster integration; limited features on other bridges
- Known gate‑valve wear in the transducer can require periodic maintenance
- Calibration procedures are complex and often need specialist support
- Spare parts and service expertise are primarily tied to Sperry Marine networks
- Higher initial cost compared with basic mechanical logs
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Antenna/sensor or cable fault, typically indicated by loss of position/heading/speed data or sensor alarm
- Power-supply failure, typically indicated by blank display or unavailable output
- Signal interference, blockage or poor sensor environment, typically indicated by unstable data, loss of fix or erratic readings
- Interface/network configuration fault, typically indicated by downstream equipment shows missing or invalid data
- Calibration/alignment drift where applicable, typically indicated by systematic heading/speed error or discrepancy with independent references
- Antenna/sensor or cable fault, typically indicated by loss of position/heading/speed data or sensor alarm
- Power-supply failure, typically indicated by blank display or unavailable output
- Signal interference, blockage or poor sensor environment, typically indicated by unstable data, loss of fix or erratic readings
- Interface/network configuration fault, typically indicated by downstream equipment shows missing or invalid data
- Calibration/alignment drift where applicable, typically indicated by systematic heading/speed error or discrepancy with independent references
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
Consilium Marine
7
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- Very high accuracy and low drift compared with electromagnetic logs
- Real‑time integration with bridge navigation systems (ECDIS, AIS)
- Robust performance in cold North Sea and Baltic conditions
- IMO type approval ensures compliance for international voyages
- Transducer window often requires replacement during dry‑dock periods
- Calibration procedure is complex and demands trained personnel
- Sensitive to power‑supply fluctuations; may need dedicated stabiliser
- Higher initial cost than basic electromagnetic logs
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- Simple EM principle – no rotating parts, reducing mechanical wear
- IMO approved for SOLAS compliance, meeting mandatory reporting requirements
- Relatively inexpensive compared with Doppler or acoustic logs
- Compact installation; fits easily on most bridge consoles
- Quick deployment and retraction via a single rod
- Sensor rod prone to biofouling, especially in warm, nutrient‑rich waters
- Calibration can drift over time, requiring periodic verification
- Retractable mechanism seal may leak or seize if not maintained
- Accuracy degrades at very high speeds (>30 kn) and in turbulent sea states
- Limited redundancy – only one measurement channel
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
Skipper Electronics
7- Sensor contamination, mechanical damage, ageing, or environmental exposure causes drifting, unstable, or missing measurements
- Power-supply, fuse, or internal electronic faults cause loss of indication, rebooting, or sensor-offline alarms
- Cable, connector, network, or interface faults produce intermittent data or loss of information at repeaters and connected systems
- Incorrect alignment, calibration, configuration, or reference input causes a consistent offset or implausible readings
- Display, repeater, processor, or software faults can cause frozen values, failed alarms, or disagreement between indications
- Sensor contamination, mechanical damage, ageing, or environmental exposure causes drifting, unstable, or missing measurements
- Power-supply, fuse, or internal electronic faults cause loss of indication, rebooting, or sensor-offline alarms
- Cable, connector, network, or interface faults produce intermittent data or loss of information at repeaters and connected systems
- Incorrect alignment, calibration, configuration, or reference input causes a consistent offset or implausible readings
- Display, repeater, processor, or software faults can cause frozen values, failed alarms, or disagreement between indications
- Sensor contamination, mechanical damage, ageing, or environmental exposure causes drifting, unstable, or missing measurements
- Power-supply, fuse, or internal electronic faults cause loss of indication, rebooting, or sensor-offline alarms
- Cable, connector, network, or interface faults produce intermittent data or loss of information at repeaters and connected systems
- Incorrect alignment, calibration, configuration, or reference input causes a consistent offset or implausible readings
- Display, repeater, processor, or software faults can cause frozen values, failed alarms, or disagreement between indications
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
Tokyo Keiki
7- Sensor fouling, marine growth or damage causes low, erratic or missing speed readings
- Cabling or transducer faults cause intermittent data or complete loss of speed indication
- Incorrect calibration or setup causes a persistent difference from expected vessel speed
- Processor or display faults cause frozen values, alarms or loss of output to other bridge systems
- Air bubbles, aeration or disturbed water flow around the sensor cause unstable readings under certain operating conditions
- Sensor fouling, marine growth or damage causes low, erratic or missing speed readings
- Cabling or transducer faults cause intermittent data or complete loss of speed indication
- Incorrect calibration or setup causes a persistent difference from expected vessel speed
- Processor or display faults cause frozen values, alarms or loss of output to other bridge systems
- Air bubbles, aeration or disturbed water flow around the sensor cause unstable readings under certain operating conditions
- Sensor fouling, marine growth or damage causes low, erratic or missing speed readings
- Cabling or transducer faults cause intermittent data or complete loss of speed indication
- Incorrect calibration or setup causes a persistent difference from expected vessel speed
- Processor or display faults cause frozen values, alarms or loss of output to other bridge systems
- Air bubbles, aeration or disturbed water flow around the sensor cause unstable readings under certain operating conditions
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to other bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable functions
- Sensor or antenna fault caused by fouling, damage, wear or water ingress, resulting in loss, weak response or degraded navigation data
- Power-supply failure caused by breaker, converter or wiring problems, resulting in loss of indication
- Processor or display fault caused by electronics or software problems, resulting in frozen, blank or erroneous output
- Interface or network failure caused by cabling or configuration faults, resulting in missing data at connected bridge equipment
- Calibration, alignment or configuration error caused by incorrect setup or maintenance, resulting in persistent disagreement with independent navigation references
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Sensor fouling, marine growth or damage causes low, erratic or missing speed readings
- Cabling or transducer faults cause intermittent data or complete loss of speed indication
- Incorrect calibration or setup causes a persistent difference from expected vessel speed
- Processor or display faults cause frozen values, alarms or loss of output to other bridge systems
- Air bubbles, aeration or disturbed water flow around the sensor cause unstable readings under certain operating conditions
JRC (Japan Radio Co)
6- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Loss of electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other service supply caused by a tripped protection device, leakage, blockage, or upstream fault results in failed starting or loss of function
- Mechanical wear, corrosion, fouling, or contamination of moving and wetted parts causes increased noise, leakage, sticking, vibration, or reduced performance
- Seal, gasket, hose, cable, or connection deterioration from age, heat, vibration, or environmental exposure produces visible leakage, intermittent signals, or loss of pressure
- Sensor, switch, actuator, relay, or control-system faults can cause incorrect indication, nuisance alarms, failed automatic sequences, or loss of remote control
- Incorrect adjustment, assembly, or maintenance can lead to unstable operation, recurrent alarms, or performance that differs from the vessel's normal baseline
- Sensor contamination, mechanical damage, ageing, or environmental exposure causes drifting, unstable, or missing measurements
- Power-supply, fuse, or internal electronic faults cause loss of indication, rebooting, or sensor-offline alarms
- Cable, connector, network, or interface faults produce intermittent data or loss of information at repeaters and connected systems
- Incorrect alignment, calibration, configuration, or reference input causes a consistent offset or implausible readings
- Display, repeater, processor, or software faults can cause frozen values, failed alarms, or disagreement between indications
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
- Sensor or antenna degradation caused by contamination, damage, ageing or poor exposure can produce missing, unstable or implausible data
- Connector, cable or network faults caused by vibration, corrosion or disturbed terminations can cause intermittent data loss or interface alarms
- Power-supply or internal electronics failure caused by ageing, heat or poor ventilation can result in resets, blank indications or complete loss of function
- Configuration or software errors after service or replacement can cause incorrect data, rejected inputs or loss of communication with other bridge equipment
- Mechanical damage or water ingress at exposed components can lead to erratic readings, repeated alarms or loss of the affected channel
SAL Navigation
3JRC
2
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- Accurate speed measurement in deep water (up to 400 m)
- IMO type approval for compliance with international regulations
- Robust performance on long ocean voyages and offshore operations
- Integrated display processor simplifies bridge integration
- Annual transducer inspection schedule supports preventive maintenance
- Transducer susceptible to cavitation damage at high vessel speeds
- Bottom‑track lock can be lost in very deep or turbulent water conditions
- Reported occasional failures of the display/processor unit
- Requires regular inspection and possible replacement of transducer elements
- Higher initial cost compared with basic paddlewheel logs
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- No moving parts in the water, reducing mechanical wear and maintenance
- IMO Type Approval ensures compliance with SOLAS navigation requirements
- Retractable sensor rod can be safely stowed for dry‑dock or when not in use
- Annual calibration procedure maintains measurement accuracy
- Sensor rod is susceptible to fouling in heavy biofouling environments
- Seal on the retractable rod may develop leaks, requiring periodic inspection
- Calibration drift can occur if annual recalibration is missed
- Requires compatible bridge integration; not a plug‑and‑play solution for all vessels
Kongsberg Maritime
1
- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- Non‑contact measurement – no rotating paddles, resulting in very low mechanical wear
- High accuracy over a wide range of speeds and sea states
- Integrated directly with K‑Bridge for seamless data display and logging
- Effective in shallow draft vessels where paddle wheels are impractical
- Low routine maintenance compared with mechanical logs
- Probe surface can suffer biofouling, degrading accuracy if not regularly cleaned
- Calibration may drift when hull fouling changes the flow profile around the sensor
- Requires a clean‑hull installation area; retrofits on heavily fouled ships can be difficult
- Electromagnetic interference from nearby high‑power equipment can affect readings
- Higher upfront cost than basic paddlewheel speed logs
Skipper
1- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- High accuracy in low‑temperature sea water conditions
- IMO approved, meeting international navigation standards
- Compact bridge‑mounted unit with built‑in display
- Robust housing suited to Arctic and sub‑Arctic environments
- Limited service and spare‑parts network outside Scandinavia
- Transducer compatibility restricted to Skipper‑specified models
- Occasional display firmware glitches reported by users
- Less flexible integration with non‑Skipper bridge systems
Tokimec
1- Sensor, antenna or transducer fouling, damage or misalignment causes unstable, missing or inaccurate data
- Power-supply or processor faults cause resets, blank displays or complete loss of indication
- Cable, connector or network faults cause intermittent data or loss of outputs to dependent bridge systems
- Incorrect configuration or calibration causes persistent disagreement with independent references
- Display, storage or software faults cause frozen values, alarms or unavailable navigation functions
- No moving parts – low mechanical wear and maintenance
- Accurate at low to moderate speeds on steel hulls
- IMO type approval satisfies SOLAS speed‑log requirements
- Proven field service record on many commercial vessels
- Compatible with standard bridge integration packages
- Sensor rod can age, leading to drift if not recalibrated
- Spare‑parts availability reduced after brand transition to Tokyo Keiki
- Legacy Tokimec branding may cause procurement confusion
- Performance degrades on non‑magnetic (composite or aluminum) hulls
- Limited depth range compared with Doppler‑based logs
YDK Technologies Co., Ltd., Morioka Branch
1