Gorleston's National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) station can now monitor the exact locations of shipping over 300 tonnes for 20 miles around, thanks to a free computer donated by local firm CSS Computers.
The donation will help the voluntary organisation track shipping, spot problems more quickly, and find the location of ships in trouble instantly – potentially saving extra lives.
CSS Computer's Peter Green said: "We are pleased to support the work of NCI. They rely totally on volunteers and donations. When we heard we could help bring extra safety to the area, we had to help by giving this computer."
Bill Richmond from NCI said: "Our station has already had a hand in saving five lives over the last 10 years. We've not had access to this technology before. This new computer will give us much needed information, which could aid in helping any ship in distress."
The technology behind the new system is simple but highly effective.
All ships over 300 tonnes must carry a VHF transmitter which sends a signal with their location.
The new computer is connected to a VHF receiver and specialist software which displays the ships' location and other information on the screen in real time.
This will give the NCI watch keepers a better understanding of the marine activity in the area and will be especially valuable in bad weather and poor visibility.
If there is an emergency, the computer will also allow NCI to immediately work out the location of the ship in trouble. This can be used for smaller craft as well.
Currently they must work out the location manually using a chart. The new computer will give them the longitude and latitude coordinates at the press of a button.
This means they can pass relevant information to the coastguard much more quickly. That could ultimately save more lives.
The NCI station at Gorleston is one of a number of stations around the UK, that keep a permanent visual watch on the shores. The organisation relies totally on volunteers and donations to operate.
CSS Computers was set up by Peter Green in Great Yarmouth 18 years ago.
The firm installs networks and PCs for local businesses, then maintains them and trains staff to use them. Its technicians advise on which technology businesses should buy and how to use it properly.
