5.4.1
Date and Time
Date and time referenced to UTC, should be obtained from a source
external to the ship or from an internal clock. The recording should
indicate which source is in use. The recording method should be such
that the timing of all other recorded data items can be derived on
playback; with a resolution sufficient to reconstruct the history
of the incident in detail.
5.4.2
Ship's Position
Latitude and longitude, and the datum used, should be derived
from an electronic position-fixing system (EPFS). The recording should
ensure that the identity and status of the EPFS can always be determined
on playback.
5.4.3
Speed
Speed through the water or speed over the ground, including
an indication of which it is. derived from the ship's speed and distance
measuring equipment.
5.4.4
Heading
As indicated by the ship's compass.
5.4.5
Bridge Audio
One or more microphones positioned on the bridge should be placed
such that conversation at or near the conning stations, radar displays,
chart tables, etc., are adequately recorded. As far as practicable,
the positioning of microphones should also capture intercom, public
address systems and audible alarms on the bridge.
5.4.6
Communications Audio
VHF communications relating to ship operations should be recorded.
5.4.7
Radar Data, Post-display Selection
This should include electronic signal information from within
one of the ship's radar installations which records all the information
which was actually being presented on the master display of that radar
at the time of recording. This should include any range rings or markers,
bearing markers, electronic plotting symbols, radar maps, whatever
parts of the SENC or other electronic chart or map that were selected,
the voyage plan, navigational data, navigational alarms and the radar
status data that were visible on the display. The recording method
should be such that, on playback, it is possible to present a faithful
replica of the entire radar display that was on view at the time of
recording, albeit within the limitations of any bandwidth compression
techniques that are essential to the working of the VDR.
5.4.8
Echo Sounder
This should include depth under keel, the depth scale currently
being displayed and other status information where available.
5.4.9
Main Alarms
This should include the status of all mandatory alarms on the
bridge.
5.4.10
Rudder Order and Response
This should include status and settings of auto-pilot if fitted.
5.4.11
Engine Order and Response
This should include the positions of any engine telegraphs or
direct engine/propeller controls and feedback indicators, if fitted,
including ahead/astern indicators. This should also include status
of bow thrusters if fitted.
5.4.12
Hull Opening Status
This should include all mandator status information required
to be displayed on the bridge.
5.4.13
Watertight and Fire Door Status
This should include all mandatory status information required
to be displayed on the bridge.
5.4.14
Accelerations and Hull Stresses
Where a ship is fitted with hull stress and response monitoring
equipment, all the data items that have been pre-selected within that
equipment should be recorded.
5.4.15
Wind Speed and Direction
This should be applicable where a ship is fitted with a suitable
sensor. Either relative or true wind speed and direction may be recorded,
but an indication of which it is should be recorded.