[SatNews] Do you know where your boat is? SPOT HUG does...

Spot LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar Inc (GSAT) has announced that SPOT HUG, a revolutionary new and cost-effective satellite-based security device for boats, is now available at 47 West Marine retail locations across the United States and on the retail website at www.westmarine.com. West Marine is the country's largest specialty retailer of boating supplies and accessories, with more than 325 company-operated stores located in 38 states, Puerto Rico and Canada. SPOT HUG monitors the boat's position and detects any Unauthorized Movement, automatically alerting a 24/7 Asset Monitoring Center with its GPS coordinates. The Asset Monitoring center will notify the appropriate parties of the event including the registered boat owner and local authorities where available. SPOT HUG also comes equipped with Sensor Alert capabilities and established SPOT messaging features for sending messages via satellite to others including an international rescue coordination center.

SPOT HUG consists of a Tracker with built-in GPS and satellite transmitter, a Wireless Keypad and key FOB. The Tracker establishes a virtual security perimeter around the vessel when stationary. If the boat moves outside of this perimeter without the presence of the key FOB, an automatic alert is transmitted every 5 minutes via satellite with an updated GPS location to the Asset Monitoring Center. In addition, SPOT messaging features can be activated using the Keypad or the FOB when in range of the Tracker. Rugged and water-proof to IPX7 standard, SPOT HUG can be line powered to either a 12 or 24 volt external battery or operate solely using AA lithium batteries. Equipped with four external sensor contacts, SPOT HUG also provides Sensor Alert monitoring and notification for events such as high bilge water, low battery, door ajar and smoke detection. A message is sent to the registered boat owner and/or additional listed contacts who receive a text message and/or email with the detailed information. Additionally, SPOT HUG sends a Daily Status Alert message to the boat owner with sensor status updates and the boat's GPS coordinates

SPOT HUG uses SPOT simplex technology, so users can transmit location-based messages over the Globalstar satellite network. This allows boat owners to message for help in a critical emergency or let others know where they are and that they are okay. Automated Track Progress message mode lets friends and family view a virtual "breadcrumb" trail of their location on the water.