Voyage Data Recorder (SVDR)
Rutter Technologies Inc.
Refurbished
Manufacturer: Rutter Technologies
Country of Origin: Canada
Model: VDR-100G3 / VDR-100G3S
Product Type: Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) / Simplified Voyage Data Recorder (S-VDR)
Marine Application: Continuous recording of vessel navigation, bridge audio, radar/video and operational data for casualty investigation and statutory compliance.
The RUTTER VDR-100G3 / VDR-100G3S is a modular marine Voyage Data Recorder platform developed as the next generation of Rutter's VDR-100G2/G2S technology.
The G3/G3S was designed as a compact bulkhead-mounted system with solid-state architecture, modular sensor interfaces, extended internal storage and simplified USB data retrieval. Its modular “fit-anywhere” arrangement was particularly useful for VDR retrofits because interface modules could be installed close to existing ship sensors, reducing additional cabling.
The VDR-100G3 is the full VDR configuration, while VDR-100G3S refers to the S-VDR configuration.
The pictured system shows the main VDR equipment together with associated modules and the Operation & Alarm Unit.
The VDR performs a role comparable to an aircraft flight recorder. It continuously collects and preserves information about the ship's position, movement, physical status, navigation and command/control activities.
Depending on vessel configuration, recorded sources may include:
GPS/GNSS • Gyrocompass • Speed Log • Echo Sounder • AIS • Radar Video • Bridge Audio • VHF Audio • Engine/Propulsion Information • Rudder Information • Alarms • Other NMEA/IEC Navigation Data
The protected recording medium is intended to preserve critical information for later recovery following a marine incident.
Key characteristics of the RUTTER VDR-100G3/G3S include:
The platform can record additional video displays beyond the principal required radar video when configured with the relevant option.
The DPU is the central processing and recording section of the system. It collects incoming information from the VDR interface modules and manages recording, storage and data retrieval.
The Data Management Module handles recorded information and internal storage functions. The system's internal hard drive can retain multiple secured data sets in addition to the continuously recorded current data set.
The OAU provides the bridge interface for system status, alarms, testing and data-management functions.
The installation documentation includes dedicated procedures for:
System Test • Securing Data • Muting Audible Alarms • Viewing Recorded Data • USB Data Copying • RSM Functions • Alarm Messages.
NMEA modules receive navigation data from compatible shipboard equipment. Configuration includes module identification, data verification and NMEA error diagnostics.
The Audio Module records signals from bridge microphones and applicable communication audio sources.
The Video Module captures radar and other configured video sources. The service documentation includes video capture, sizing, offset, sharpness, gain and synchronization adjustments.
The protected capsule preserves required recorded information.
The installation manual specifically documents the Rutter RUT-02447 Fixed Capsule, along with compatible fixed SFRM and float-free SFRM configurations.
An optional RSM provides additional storage and retrieval capability for recorded data.
One particularly useful feature of the VDR-100G3 is its flexible data-recovery architecture.
The system maintains a continuous record of the most recent 12 hours as its Current Data Set. It can additionally preserve copies internally as Secured Data Sets.
Recorded information can be recovered through several methods, including:
Client PC / Ethernet • USB Memory Stick • Remote Storage Module • Internal Secured Data • Final Recording Medium
Importantly, copying the Current Data Set does not interrupt or alter the ongoing recording process.
The RUTTER VDR-100G3/G3S was designed for commercial ships requiring VDR or S-VDR capability, including:
Bulk Carriers • Oil/Chemical Tankers • Container Ships • General Cargo Ships • Passenger Ships • Ro-Ro Vessels • Offshore Vessels • Merchant Ships
Recorded information can be extremely important for accident reconstruction, investigation, operational analysis and statutory requirements.
First identify the exact OAU alarm rather than repeatedly muting it. The installation manual contains specific alarm-code descriptions and corrective-maintenance procedures.
If GPS, gyro, speed-log or other navigation information is missing, check:
NMEA source → cabling → NMEA module → module configuration → network communication → recording verification.
The official manual contains dedicated NMEA error-code and configuration procedures.
Check the source video signal, Video Module power and communication, synchronization and configured video-channel settings.
Video parameters should not be changed without recording existing configuration values.
Inspect the microphone assembly, wiring, Audio Module, network connection and associated power supply.
A bridge microphone failure can result in incomplete statutory recording even when other VDR functions appear normal.
Inspect the FRM/SFRM power and communication link. Confirm that the capsule is actually recording rather than assuming correct operation because the main DPU is functioning.
Check the approved USB memory device and OAU procedure. The G3/G3S specifically provides integrated USB functionality for convenient retrieval of recently recorded information.
If archived or secured data cannot be accessed, investigate internal storage condition, available disk space and recording software status.
Because the G3/G3S uses a distributed architecture, Ethernet cable, connector, network address or module-power failures can interrupt communication even when individual modules appear powered.
Regular maintenance should include inspection of:
DPU • DMM • OAU • NMEA Modules • Audio Module • Video Module • FRM/SFRM Capsule • Microphones • Power System • Backup Batteries • Ethernet Cables • Connectors • Internal Storage
The official installation manual specifically includes procedures for general inspection, airflow checks, FRM maintenance, corrective maintenance, alarm codes and NMEA error codes.
Periodic playback checks are particularly important. A VDR should not merely indicate that it is recording—the recorded data should be verified as usable.
Annual Performance Testing and statutory VDR work should be completed by appropriately qualified personnel.
Typical requirements for existing RUTTER VDR-100G3/G3S installations may include:
Complete VDR-100G3 System • VDR-100G3S System • Data Processing Unit • Data Management Module • Data Acquisition Unit • Operation & Alarm Unit • NMEA Module • Audio Module • Video Module • Power Control Centre • Power Supply • Backup Battery • Bridge Microphone • Outdoor Microphone • RUT-02447 Fixed Capsule • FRM • SFRM • Float-Free Capsule • Remote Storage Module • Internal Storage Components • Ethernet Interface • PCB Assemblies • Cables • Connectors
For replacement parts, the vessel should provide the exact model, part number, serial number and photographs of the existing module whenever possible.
The G3/G3S was designed around a practical modular architecture. This is particularly useful on existing vessels because an individual acquisition module, OAU, storage component or interface may sometimes be replaced without rebuilding the complete VDR installation.
The system also offers straightforward data retrieval and multiple storage methods, including internal secured data, USB, optional RSM and the protected recording capsule.
For ships that already have the system installed, maintaining a compatible legacy unit can therefore be operationally and economically practical when appropriate serviceable spare parts remain available.
What is RUTTER VDR-100G3?
It is a marine Voyage Data Recorder designed to collect and securely record information relating to a vessel's navigation, movement, physical status and command/control activities.
What is RUTTER VDR-100G3S?
The G3S is the S-VDR version of the VDR-100G3 platform.
Can I buy a complete RUTTER VDR-100G3 system?
SM MARINE SERVICE™ can assist with complete systems and individual legacy replacement components subject to stock availability.
Are used VDR-100G3 spare parts available?
Used, tested, refurbished and reconditioned legacy components may be available depending on the required part number and configuration.
Can the OAU be remotely installed?
Yes. The documentation describes both integrated and remote OAU installation.
Can data be downloaded by USB?
Yes. USB retrieval is one of the important G3/G3S functions, allowing recorded data to be copied without interrupting primary recording.
Which capsule is used with the RUTTER VDR-100G3?
The installation documentation includes the Rutter RUT-02447 Fixed Capsule and also covers other fixed and float-free FRM/SFRM arrangements.
Where can I find a VDR-100G3 installation or service manual?
Technical resources are provided below.
The RUTTER VDR-100G3 / VDR-100G3S is a modular marine Voyage Data Recorder and Simplified Voyage Data Recorder designed for continuous recording of navigation data, bridge audio, radar/video and other operational information. The system incorporates a DPU/DMM, OAU, modular data interfaces and protected FRM/SFRM recording media. SM MARINE SERVICE™ supports sourcing of complete systems and compatible legacy spare parts for worldwide marine applications.
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