The VDR (Voyage Data Recorder), is the maritime version of the black box that is used by airlines. It is typically made up of two parts that include a data collection unit as well as a deck-mounted protection pod that is designed to withstand shock or fire, deep-sea pressurized and penetration. It is used primarily to record incidents during navigation, but it can also provide valuable data for analysis of heavy weather damage and performance monitoring as well as training for crew members.
Up-grading
Many ships equipped with VDR/SVDR satisfy the minimum requirements of http://www.digitaldealdataroom.info/database-access-control-best-practices regulatory compliance. However, members are encouraged to use the equipment to record near missed events, conduct investigations into incidents, and for preventative maintenance. Additionally, there are applications that can increase the amount of time during which VDR information is available, starting from the current minimum of 12 hours and a decision should be made on whether or not to upgrade to this.
The system is built around an industrial-grade computer that can perform various functions, including processing and encoding data received from sensors. The capsule is designed to survive any accident and store the data. The VDR system is made up of a data collection device located on the bridge as well as a dedicated power supply as well as an interface unit and backup batteries. The unit gathers all data from integrated sources such as microphones to record bridge audio and transmits it to a Concentrator, which is where a string of NMEA 0183 sentence is read and then coded to be sent to the final recorded media.