SPOT… Sailing Into Ship Security (SATCOM)

[SatNews] Spot LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar Inc. (Nasdaq:GSAT) has said their SPOT HUG, a new satellite-based security device for boats, will be showcased this week at the 2010 Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, booth number 3055, located in the Broward County Convention Center, October 28th through November 1st.

Launched initially for the maritime community, SPOT HUG monitors the boat’s position and detects any Unauthorized Movement automatically alerting a 24/7 Asset Monitoring Center with its GPS coordinates. The Asset Monitoring center will notify the appropriate parties of the event including the registered boat owner and local authorities where available. SPOT HUG also comes equipped with Sensor Alert capabilities and established SPOT messaging features for sending messages via satellite to others including an international rescue coordination center.

SPOT HUG consists of a Tracker with built-in GPS and satellite transmitter, a Wireless Keypad and two Key FOBs. Using a proprietary 2.4 GHz receiver, all three devices communicate wirelessly with each other. The Tracker establishes a virtual security perimeter around the vessel when stationary. If the boat moves outside of this perimeter without the presence of the key FOB, an automatic alert is transmitted every 5 minutes via satellite with an updated GPS location to the Asset Monitoring Center. In addition, SPOT messaging features can be activated using the Keypad or the FOB when in range of the Tracker. Rugged and water-proof to IPX7 standard, SPOT HUG can be line powered to either a 12 or 24 volt external battery or operate solely using AA lithium batteries. Equipped with four external sensor contacts, SPOT HUG also provides Sensor Alert monitoring and notification for events such as high bilge water, low battery, door ajar and smoke detection. A message is sent to the registered boat owner and/or additional listed contacts who receive a text message and/or email with the detailed information. Additionally, SPOT HUG sends a Daily Status Alert message to the boat owner with sensor status updates and the boat’s GPS coordinates.

SPOT HUG uses SPOT simplex technology so users can transmit location-based messages over the Globalstar satellite network. This allows boat owners to message for help in a critical emergency or let others know where they are and that they are okay. Automated Track Progress message mode lets others view a virtual “breadcrumb” trail of their location on the water.