JRC high speed Solid State S-band delivered to ferry Lake Express
JRC says the world’s first, smallest and IMO compliant Solid State S-band radar with 8-ft antenna and high speed rotation has been installed on the high speed car/passenger ferry Lake Express. The 192-ft USCG-inspected Subchapter catamaran travels at a service speed of 34-knots between Milwaukee (Wisconsin state) and Muskegon (Michigan state) for the service started in 2004.
Lake Express selected JRC for the dual X- and S-band radar installation due to the features, design, and integration of the new Multi Function Display as well as the ability to utilize a high speed S-band radar. With the world’s first 8-ft antenna, fully meeting the IMO performance standards, the magnetron free Solid State technology also adds the advantage of greatly reduced “in life” service costs. With over 700 successful Solid State S-band radar installations to date, used on a variety of vessels sailing in different parts of globe, this magnetron free technology clearly brings an additional benefit to owners and operators alike.
Speaking on the choice of JRC’s Multi Function Display for this retrofit, senior captain John Rogers said “In researching the options for this project, JRC’s offerings stood out and the finished install has exceeded our expectations. We are very happy with the ease of use and performance of the new equipment and we look forward to the advanced features of this navigation suite serving us for years to come.”
The Lake Express bridge upgrade included the 8-ft high speed Solid State chart radar (JMR-9282) interswitched with a 6-ft high speed X-band chart radar (JMR-9210) and a new ECDIS (JAN-9201), all equipped with 26-inch monitors. Also installed as part of this navigation electronics suite upgrade; a GPS navigator (JLR-7800), Class-A universal AIS (JHS-183), GPS compass (JLR-31) and the AlphaLine repeater for use as a heading and Rate-of-Turn indicator. All components were purchased from and installed over the offseason lay-up period by Finn Marine.
JRC is a world leading marine electronics producer specializing in the design and manufacture of industry compliant products. Alphatron Marine is a world renowned supplier of integrated bridge solutions, represent major industry brands and manufacturer of unique complementary products to the JRC portfolio. With the full support of Centers of Excellence in Tokyo, Rotterdam, Singapore and Houston, the combined synergies bring quality and innovation to owners, operators and shipyards, redefining the future of ocean, offshore and river navigation.
The Lake Express
The Milwaukee-based Lake Express ferry began service in 2004, and it is the Midwest’s only high-speed auto/passenger ferry. The modern ferry accommodates 250 passengers, and holds up to 46 vehicles and 12 motorcycles. With terminals in both Milwaukee. and Muskegon, Mich., Lake Express makes multiple daily trips across Lake Michigan, with each voyage totaling two and one-half hours. Ample parking and easy interstate access are available at both terminals, as well as car rental and taxi services. As a fun, fast and easy transportation service, Lake Express has become the premier travel option to avoid lengthy, congested drives through Chicago. Travelers from all 50 states and more than dozen foreign countries use the Lake Express Lake Michigan shortcut each sailing season.