The world is changing rapidly, and connectivity technology is no exception. Hybrid is the future of connectivity for today’s boats and yachts, and utilizing a “hybrid hub” approach on your power boat or yacht will ensure an enjoyable, seamless experience for you and your guests, allowing you to stream movies, work remotely, enjoy social media, and more – just as you do on land.
We are all accustomed to hybrid connectivity in our daily lives, as cell phones utilize this hybrid approach. Your personal cell can likely connect to other people or devices through a cellular network, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth. It will typically roam and find the best connection for the task at hand. It will automatically connect to your car when you turn the key. It will find a wireless network in the coffee shop so you can browse online. Isn’t it time we brought this convenience out on the water?
KVH Industries, Inc. is proud to offer the groundbreaking KVH ONE™ hybrid network and groundbreaking TracNet™ terminals, a ground-breaking approach to the concept of the “hybrid hub.”. The TracNet H30, H60, and H90 terminals feature satellite, cellular, and Wi-Fi technology under one dome, with intelligent, automatic switching to ensure you are always connected to the best communication option.
TracNet’s hybrid connectivity goes beyond simply integrating satellite, cellular, and Wi-Fi. With TracNet, these connection channels are seamlessly integrated into a single system with the option to connect as many as two other services (like Starlink or Iridium), forming a true “hybrid hub.” And all services connected to the hub benefit from TracNet’s intelligent, automatic switching, utilizing an algorithm that assesses factors such as availability, cost, and quality of data connection to continually deliver the best performance. Boaters have used a variety of connectivity options on one vessel for years but at the cost of separate antennas, multiple installations, complicated switching, higher expenses, and multiple providers. An integrated hybrid system, such as KVH’s TracNet, offers a more elegant, convenient, and cost-effective solution.
Gus Stergis is the proud owner of Jimbo, a 74’ Predator Sport Sunseeker yacht. He recently installed a TracNet H30 on Jimbo and stated, “When I’m out on the water I don’t want to think about connectivity. With TracNet, I don’t have to think about it, because it does the thinking for you. Family and friends on Jimbo check email and talk on the phone – and no one even thinks about how they’re connecting. It just works.”
The award-winning TracNet product line features three terminals: the ultra-compact 37 cm TracNet H30, the compact 60 cm TracNet H60, and the 1-meter TracNet H90. All TracNet terminals feature tuned reflectors, multi-axis stabilization, stabilized skew, digital IMUs, and a commercial-grade rotary joint with continuous azimuth for outstanding reception, improved signal efficiency, and high-performance tracking for fast boats and rough seas. The single-cable design and AC and DC power options make installation easy.
The KVH ONE network includes 276 million sq. km (106+ million sq. miles) of satellite coverage using KVH’s global, layered HTS network powered by Intelsat. The network offers VSAT speeds as fast as 20/3 Mbps (down/up). Subscribers also enjoy integrated support for 5G/LTE cellular service in 150+ countries as well as the flexibility to add user-supplied SIM cards for local service. Plus, TracNet terminals can connect to shore-based Wi-Fi networks using the integrated Wi-Fi bridge for additional speed and cost-saving benefits. Yachters enjoy outstanding connectivity at the dock, underway, and offshore.
KVH TracNet has already been recognized with industry accolades. The leading maritime industry organization SAFETY4SEA recognized the TracNet hybrid solution for its contributions to vessel connectivity in the commercial market with the 2023 SMART4SEA Connectivity Award. And KVH TracNet was awarded Editors’ Choice in the 2023 Best Elex Awards; judges from four leading titles in leisure marine media honored TracNet in the program, which is focused on exceptional electronics and technology in the leisure marine industry.
Chris Watson, KVH’s Vice President of Marketing and Communication, states, “KVH’s TracNet hybrid product line delivers a new standard for connectivity and reliability for all types of power boats worldwide. We’re proud to offer a solution that allows power yachters to be always connected.”
KVH Industries, Inc., is a global leader in mobile connectivity, content, and value-added services with innovative technology designed to enable a mobile world. KVH develops, manufactures, and provides maritime communication hardware and services worldwide. Founded in 1982, the company has more than a dozen offices around the globe with research, development, and manufacturing operations based in Middletown, RI.
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