Re-Publishing as a REMINDER – Ensure Your GPS-Related Electronics Have Been Updated or Replaced for Navigation Efficiency and Safety at Sea!
In the maritime industry, the accuracy of navigation systems is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficiency of sea voyages. The upcoming GPS rollover events in 2024 and 2025 pose significant risks to the functionality of older GPS-related electronics. It is essential for maritime operators to update or replace their critical communication and navigation bridge electronics to avoid any disruptions. This post provides an in-depth overview of the impact of the GPS rollover, the devices affected, and the necessary actions to maintain reliable navigation operations.
Understanding the GPS Rollover
The GPS rollover is a phenomenon that occurs due to the limitation in the GPS date system. GPS systems use a 10-bit binary counter to keep track of weeks, which can only count up to 1,024 weeks (approximately 19.7 years). When the counter resets to zero, older GPS devices may fail to interpret the new date correctly, leading to erroneous position and time data. The last rollover occurred in April 2019, and the next significant events are expected in September 2024 and August 2025.
Devices Affected by the 2024/25 GPS Rollover
Several JRC (Japan Radio Company) devices are known to be affected by the upcoming GPS rollover events. The impacted devices include:
September 8, 2024 GPS Rollover:
- JRC JUE-500 (Inmarsat Fleet Broadband FB500)
- JRC JLR-7500 (GPS Navigator)
- JRC JLR-7600 (GPS Navigator)
- JRC JLR-4331W (GPS Receiver)
- JRC JLR-4340 (GPS Receiver)
- JRC JLR-20 (GPS Compass)
- JRC JLR-30 (GPS Compass)
August 3, 2025 GPS Rollover:
- JRC JHS-182 (AIS)
- JRC NTE-182 (AIS Transponder)
- JRC NTE-183 (AIS)
- JRC NCM-983 (AIS)
- JRC JLR-7800 (GPS Navigator)
- JRC JLR-7900 (GPS Navigator)
- JRC JLR-4341 (GPS Receiver)
- JRC JLR-21 (GPS Compass)
- JRC JLR-31 (GPS Compass)
Depending on the specific device, either all units or those with specific serial numbers or cores may be affected. It is crucial to check the official notices and technical bulletins from JRC to determine if your equipment is impacted.
Consequences of Not Updating GPS Equipment
If affected GPS devices are not updated or replaced, their internal dates and clocks will either roll back to a previous incorrect date, display the wrong position, or fail entirely. This can lead to significant safety risks, especially when these devices interface with other critical navigation equipment such as ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System), GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System), SSAS (Ship Security Alert System), VDR (Voyage Data Recorder), and ODME (Oil Discharge Monitoring Equipment).
ATEX Marine’s Support for GPS Rollover Compliance
ATEX Marine is prepared to assist maritime operators in navigating the challenges posed by the upcoming GPS rollovers. We offer software upgrade assistance and product replacement services to ensure that your navigation equipment continues to provide accurate and reliable data. Our experienced engineers are ready to support you in maintaining data integrity and operational safety.
FAQs About the GPS Rollover and ATEX Marine’s Services
To help you better understand the implications of the GPS rollover and how to address them, we have compiled answers to some frequently asked questions:
1. What is a GPS rollover?
A GPS rollover is a reset of the GPS date system that occurs every 1,024 weeks due to the 10-bit binary counter used to track weeks. This reset can cause older GPS devices to display incorrect dates and times.
2. Why are certain JRC devices affected by the 2024/25 GPS rollover?
Certain JRC devices are affected by the GPS rollover because their internal systems were designed based on the 10-bit week counter, which resets every 1,024 weeks. Without updates, these devices may not interpret the new date correctly.
3. What are the risks of not updating or replacing affected GPS devices?
Not updating or replacing affected GPS devices can lead to incorrect date and time displays, erroneous position data, and potential device failures. This can compromise navigation safety and the accuracy of interconnected systems.
4. How can I determine if my JRC device is affected by the GPS rollover?
You can determine if your JRC device is affected by checking the official notices and technical bulletins from JRC. These documents provide detailed information on the models and serial numbers impacted by the rollover.
5. What steps should I take to update my GPS devices?
To update your GPS devices, you should contact the manufacturer or a certified service provider for the necessary software upgrades or hardware replacements. ATEX Marine can assist you with these updates to ensure compliance and safety.
6. What services does ATEX Marine offer for GPS rollover compliance?
ATEX Marine offers software upgrade assistance and product replacement services for GPS rollover compliance. Our experienced engineers ensure that your navigation equipment operates reliably and accurately.
7. How do I schedule a service with ATEX Marine?
You can schedule a service with ATEX Marine by contacting our customer support team via phone or email. We will arrange for a convenient time to perform the necessary updates or replacements.
8. Are there any costs associated with the GPS updates?
Costs associated with GPS updates depend on the specific device and the type of service required. ATEX Marine provides detailed quotes upon request to ensure transparency and budget planning.
9. What other equipment might be affected by the GPS rollover?
In addition to GPS devices, other navigation and communication equipment interfaced with GPS systems, such as ECDIS, GMDSS, SSAS, VDR, and ODME, may also be affected by incorrect date and time data resulting from the rollover.
10. How can I stay informed about future GPS rollovers?
To stay informed about future GPS rollovers, regularly check updates from the manufacturers of your navigation equipment, subscribe to industry newsletters, and stay in touch with service providers like ATEX Marine for the latest information and support.
Conclusion
The GPS rollover events in 2024 and 2025 present significant challenges for maritime navigation systems. Ensuring that your GPS-related electronics are updated or replaced is crucial for maintaining navigation efficiency and safety at sea. ATEX Marine is committed to helping you navigate these challenges by providing the necessary support and services to keep your equipment compliant and reliable.
Read the official notice from JRC about their GPS Rollover Here
