Article

TRENZ SIRIUS: Improved Pilot Unit (PPU) from Germany


by Marine-Pilots.com - published on 18 February 2025 -  9324 -

Press release from TRENZ, Germany - Picture of TRENZ SIRIUS
The SIRIUS Portable Pilot Unit is a new development from TRENZ. The electronics and software were completely redesigned over a development period of around two years. The proven compact form factor of the TRENZ device enclosures has been retained and you will recognise the SIRIUS Pilot Unit by its contrasting blue colour.

Increased accuracy

In practice, the TRENZ SIRIUS Pilot Unit achieves more accurate values in terms of position data (GNSS) and rotation rate (ROT) than its predecessor TRENZ +IP65, even if the technical specifications (theoretical values) of the integrated sensors are similar according to the respective manufacturers datasheets. This is achieved through more advanced hardware and intelligent sensor fusion algorithms.

Faster operational readiness

After switching on the TRENZ SIRIUS Pilot Unit, the device is ready for use within 25 to 30 seconds.
More than 1000 TRENZ PPU devices have been sold in more than 40 countries since 2018
More than 1000 TRENZ PPU devices have been sold in more than 40 countries since 2018
More than 1000 TRENZ PPU devices have been sold in more than 40 countries since 2018
More than 1000 TRENZ PPU devices have been sold in more than 40 countries since 2018

USB Power Delivery and shorter charging times

With the predecessor (TRENZ +IP65), fast charging of the battery was generally only possible with the enclosed TRENZ power supply unit due to various USB charging standards in the past.
The SIRIUS Pilot Unit not only charges its batteries faster than the preceding model, but can also be charged quickly with all power supply units that comply with the USB Power Delivery standard. These include, for example, various phone and laptop chargers or the 20W USB-C power adapter from Apple.
Of course, like its predecessor the SIRIUS Pilot Unit can be charged simultaneously during operation onboard a vessel.

Longer battery runtimes

When developing the SIRIUS Pilot Unit, it was important to focus on energy-saving components and more efficient energy management. As a result, the device can be operated for longer with the same battery capacity compared to its predecessor. Depending on the respective configuration of the SIRIUS Pilot Unit, a running time of up to 24 hours can be achieved; the average running time is approx. 17 hours.

Reverse polarity protected AIS connection to the ship

In rare cases, it can happen that the so-called pilot plug on board a ship is not wired according to the standard or is wired incorrectly. This can result in pilot units from other manufacturers being unable to receive data. The TRENZ SIRIUS Pilot Unit is able to recognise problems with the wiring of the pilot plug and ensure that data can still be received.

Size and weight

With exactly the same dimensions of 130mm x 75mm x 28mm, the SIRIUS pilot unit weighs slightly less than its predecessor +IP65 (216 g).

IP65 protection class

Like its predecessor +IP65, which also bears the protection class in its name, the Pilot Unit SIRIUS is also dustproof to IP65 and protected against light water spray.
TRENZ GmbH | Maritime IT Solutions made in Germany
What's your opinion on this?
Login or register to write comments and join the discussion!
Read more...

Article Operational notes & recommendations on Portable Pilot Units (PPU)

by United Kingdom Maritime Pilots Association - published on 2 December 2021

OPERATIONAL NOTES AND RECOMMENDATIONS by UKMPA, February 2017
The introduction of modern lightweight Portable Pilot Units (PPU) for use during pilotage has proved to be another major advance for pilotage operations worldwide.

1

Article P&O Maritime Logistics Equipping Pilots In Jebel Ali With Updated Pilot Portable Units (PPUs)

published on 2 November 2022

P&O Maritime Logistics has equipped all pilots in Jebel Ali with new Pilot Portable Units (PPUs). The PPUs are made by TRENZ and supported by Wärtsilä software.

3

Article What is a Portable Pilot Unit (PPU)?

by TRENZ GmbH - published on 1 April 2024

A portable pilot unit (PPU) is a portable navigation aid system designed specifically for ship pilots, such as the SIRIUS series from TRENZ in Germany (www.trenz-ppu.com).

2

Opinion AIMPA has published "Providing Peek into Marine Pilots' World" - Issue II

published on 21 September 2020

The PDF of the second issue is available for download here

0

Article Human Error in Pilotage Operations

published on 3 December 2024

This article was first published back in September 2021: Pilotage operations require close interaction between human and machines. This complex sociotechnical system is necessary to safely and efficiently maneuver a vessel in constrained waters.

0

Article Tanker and general cargo ship collided in Kiel Canal on July 27

published on 28 July 2021

Tanker went out of control after engine failure and collided with general cargo ship in Kiel Canal near Kiel locks, at around 0120 LT Jul 27.

1

Article 2022: A large vessel is to cross an ocean autonomously

published on 10 January 2022

For the first time, a large vessel is to cross an ocean autonomously. The giant, developed by Hyundai, could usher in a new era of seafaringt: 300 metres long, 50 metres wide, with space for 180,000 cubic metres of liquid gas.

1

Article Swimmer killed by Pilot Boat: The ports of Auckland are fined $424,000

by Marine-Pilots.com - published on 4 August 2020

The Auckland District Court has fined the Ports of Auckland NZD424,000 (USD300,500) for exempting its pilot boats from speed limits in Waitemata Harbour after a swimmer was struck and killed (April 2017).

0

Article Premiere of KARCO new release - Pilot Ladder - A Persisting Challenge

published on 18 June 2021

A unique 3D video endeavoring to raise the awareness of the seafarers about a very important, critical, and essential piece of equipment on board. Basic in design, but high on purpose, the mistakes incorrect handling of this equipment continue to result in Near Miss, Incidents and accidents.

0

Video Losingsforsøk Rekefjord / Maritime pilotage 02 07 2016

published on 26 September 2020

Spektakulært forsøk. Vanskelig losoppdrag. Svært fartøy. Trang fjordpassasje. #Kystverket #lostjenesten #sikkerseilas/ Spectacular attempt. Demanding maritime pilotage. Huge vessel. Narrow passage. #norwegaincoastaladministration #safeseaways

0