Marine Ice Makers Analysts Help You to Master the Sailing Rule Book

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Your Marine Ice Makers Experts Get Rid of All the Confusion

Raritan Engineering Company your marine ice makers specialists would like to share with you these topics we thought would be of interest to you this month regarding how to master the sailing rule book.

Your marine ice makers professionals know that our rulebook contains only six pages of rules that apply when two or more boats meet on the course. Those are the rules in Part 2, âWhen Boats Meet.â It's obvious we need basic right-of-way rules (Rules 10, 11 and 12) and some limitations on the actions of right-of-way boats (Rules 14, 15 and 16.1), but those rules occupy only one of the six pages. 

Rule 24.1 is simple: If you're not racing, don't interfere with boats that are – it's basic courtesy. A reader once asked me, however, why the phrase âif reasonably possibleâ is in the rule. Those words are there to handle fairly the situation shown in the first diagram. Able, Baker and Charlie, sailing closehauled on starboard tack, are nearing the finish line. 

Another rule that seems mysterious to readers is Rule 18.1(b). This rule is far more complicated than Rule 18.1(a), but many readers, after they spend time dissecting these two rules, cannot see what purpose Rule 18.1(b) serves. 

Rule 18.1(a) states simply that if two boats are on opposite tacks beating to windward, Rule 18 doesn't apply between them. That's a well-understood rule that rarely causes problems. 

Go to http://raritaneng.com/raritan-product-line/ice-makers/icerette-automatic-icecube-maker/ and see how you can find more information as well as get assistance on marine ice makers and on how to master the sailing rule book.

To understand why Rule 18.1(b) is needed, we need a bit of background. Rule 18 is intended to apply to boats on opposite tacks only when the boats are sailing on a downwind leg at more than 90 degrees to the true wind. Under the definition Overlap, boats on opposite tacks can't even be overlapped unless both are sailing more than 90 degrees off the wind.

In order to achieve Rule 18's intent in this and similar scenarios, Rule 18.1(b) is a necessary part of Rule 18.1. It switches off Rule 18 between Bart and Rick because they are on opposite tacks when the proper course for Bart, but not for Rick, is to tack to round the mark.

Another puzzling rule for many readers is Rule 18.4. It applies only âwhen an inside overlapped right-of-way boat must jibe at a mark to sail her proper course.â It's purely a safety rule. It's easy to understand how it works by considering the scenario shown in the third diagram. Two boats flying traditional symmetric spinnakers are approaching a jibe mark to be left to port. 

Olga has sailed high so she can jibe while running directly downwind. At Position 2, her foredeck crew is on the foredeck and has detached the spinnaker pole from the mast in preparation for jibing. Olga is anticipating that Izzie will comply with Rule 18.4 by bearing off on her proper course and jibing. 

Especially in strong winds, this could create a dangerous situation for Olga's crew, which would be forced to abort its jibe and turn up onto a broad reach on starboard tack.

Rule 18.4 does not apply at a gate mark because it's not always clear which gate mark a boat is planning to round. Rule 24.2 states, âExcept when sailing her proper course, a boat shall not interfere with a boat ⦠sailing on another leg.â I've been asked why that part of Rule 24.2 is needed.

Suppose that the series scores for Al and Bill are such that, unless Bill places first or second in the last race, Al will win the series no matter where he finishes. The course for the last race is windward/leeward, twice around.

Bill has broken away from the fleet and is leading as he starts up the second windward leg. Al is still on the first leeward leg, buried back in 15th place. If Rule 24.2 were not in the rulebook, Al could simply stop sailing toward the leeward mark and position his boat to slow Bill by closely covering him as he sails upwind.

So don't forget these helpful pointers in mastering the sailing rule book. 1) If you're not racing, don't interfere with boats that are – it's basic courtesy;  2) Rule 18 is intended to apply to boats on opposite tacks only when the boats are sailing on a downwind leg at more than 90 degrees to the true wind;  and 3) safety is always the best choice.

Learn more at Raritan Engineering and see how they always have more information on marine ice makers and how to master the sailing rule book. 

via The Reasons Behind the Rules

Marine Performance Parts Analysts Show How to Make Safe Electrical Connections

Your Marine Performance Parts Specialists Has the Tools You Need to Get the Job Done Right

Stainless Marine your marine performance parts experts would like to share with you these topics we thought would be of interest to you this month regarding how to make safe electrical connections.

Your marine performance parts professionals know that the tools needed to make crimp connections are inexpensive, and the t­echniques used are simple. Still, every connection is a potential source of resistance or corrosion. Use these tips to help ensure better electrical ­connections for your next refit or repair.

Crimpers

Typical hardware-store crimpers cut and tear into heat-shrink sheathing on crimps and also deflect when you squeeze them – usually deep in the bilge at the far end of your one-arm reach.

Stripping

Strip just enough insulation so the wire just fits the length of the terminal's barrel; removing excess insulation compromises the crimp mechanically and corrosion-wise. 

Crimping

Strive to make a double crimp. Do not crimp at the ends of the connector. Make sure you are crimping the interior metal barrel; the plastic insulated covering overhangs this at the wire end of the connector.

Shrink Connectors

Crimps with heat-shrink collars are a great way to stave off corrosion. After crimping, heat the connector's insulated barrel with a small torch or heat gun. Use indirect heat – don't roast it! You can use a lighter, but the torch affords better control – and can be used for line splicing as a bonus. 

Liquid Electrical Tape

Your marine performance parts analysts understand that this product seals out moisture as well as heat-shrink, in my experience. It can be messy to use, but it doesn't require a source of heat, and on windy days doing field repairs, heat-shrinking can be problematic even with a good torch, so I always carry some in my kit.

Go to http://www.stainlessmarine.com/product-category/diesel-exhaust-risers-elbows/ and see how you can find more information on marine performance parts and on how to make safe electrical connections at Stainless Marine.

Terminals

Butt splices join wire of the same diameter. To connect wire of different diameter, strip twice as much insulation from the thinner wire and double it back on itself to make the correct diameter.

Terminal Blocks

Sometimes, a terminal block makes more sense than a bunch of butt splices, especially if different wire sizes need to be connected together. They are especially handy for marine electronics and audio installations. 

The Clear Choice

Better terminals use tinned copper, not aluminum. Scratch the surface of one to see; aluminum is silver all the way through. Also, only select terminals having nylon sleeves; vinyl sleeves crack all too easily. Nylon is easy to ID; you can see through it.

Here's How To Do It Right

Several styles and types of electrical connectors are available to the marine consumer. Only one type though has all the right ingredients to hold fast and keep corrosion at baya crimp connector with integral heat shrink tubing.

Anchor Marine makes a variety of heat shrink connectors for marine use. If you become familiar with only a few types and use them to make the right connections the gremlins that inhabit boat wiring will steer clear of your vessel.

Butt Connectors

One type of connector used often on a boat to do repairs or replace a piece of electrical gear is a butt connector. These are specifically designed to connect one wire to another. 

Ancor Heat Shrink Butt Connector

In our photo to the left example, we used a blue butt connector with AWG #14 wire. Following the application of heat the tubing shrunk to fit the wire and oozed out a little glue.

Ring-Eye Connectors

When making connections to a bus bar or electrical appliance that has lugs or screws you should terminate the wire with a ring-eye style connector. Again, Marine Electronics Reviews recommends using connectors with integral adhesive-lined heat shrink tubing.

Tidy Up

The last thing to remember when making connections on any boat wiring is to properly bundle and secure it. Start by forming tight bundles with your hand then secure them with plastic tie wraps.

If you use the right wire, make watertight connections, and securely fasten all wires in place your boat wiring system will provide years of trouble-free service.

So don't forget these helpful tips on how to make safe electrical connections. 1) Make sure that you have the right tools first;  2) use shrink connectors and liquid electrical tape;  and 3) don't forget to tidy up after you have finished the job.

Learn more at Stainless Marine and see how they have more information on marine performance parts and on how to make safe electrical connections.

via How to Make Marine Electrical Connections

via Boat Wiring, Making the Right Connection

Boat Parts and Accessories Professionals Share the Secrets to Keeping Your Crew Happy

Your Boat Parts and Accessories Experts Never Underestimate Crew Safety and Comfort

Stainless Marine your boat parts and accessories analysts would like to share with you these topics we thought would be of interest to you this month regarding the secrets to keep your crew happy.

Your boat parts and accessories professoinals know that putting the safety of your crew and vessel first is the essence of good seamanship. The good seaman embraces practice, review and the willingness to learn in order to maintain a high safety standard. Safety is paramount. 

Capt. âSpeedalongâ Smith: This skipper grabs the wheel, grabs the control, assumes a widespread stance and never makes a move without looking first. He knows every navigation aid and every light pattern and can even visualize the ocean in his vicinity with an imaginary overlay of latitude/longitude lines. Capt. Speedalong's flaw? He goes too fast.

It's not that he rushes into head seas at full throttle. Capt. Speedalong simply forgets that he is standing, and well-braced, with his hands on that wheel. Meanwhile, his crew is getting jostled as beverages splash out of cans.

Rule to Remember: Your fun boat accessories specialists know that the skipper and the boat can always take more punishment than the crew.

Capt. Gale Force: This skipper forgets to inform her crew of what is occurring or, rather, what is about to happen. And she also forgets she is at least twice as secure physically as her crew. 

Had she let the crew know she'd be throttling back in a moment to transit a bridge, maybe Uncle Henry wouldn't have chosen that moment to head for the head – before stumbling forward and bruising his thigh. 

Rule to Remember: Let the crew know what you know.

Capt. Noah Chance: This skipper believes in making a plan and sticking to it. Though Capt. Noah has more salt running through his veins than the contestants at a pretzel-eating contest, he often makes his crew uncomfortable because he never has a plan B.

Like the time he scheduled a little fun fishing for his old college buddies. The day dawned bright as 4-foot swells rolled relentlessly across the sea. It was nothing to Noah, but his crew proved one needn't always buy chum.

Rule to Remember: Always have, and be prepared to execute, a plan B.

Quick Tip: Your cheap boat motor parts analysts say to keep a spare sweatshirt, sun hat, jacket and sunglasses stowed aboard for crew who show up dressed for land.

You just can't see it. There's something wrong with your boat, but you can't put your finger on what it is. She runs great. She's seaworthy and safe. And there's nowhere you'd rather be than your perch at the helm.

But at anchor or in a slip, it's another story for you and your crew. Where the family feels refreshed and rejuvenated underway, you all seem to get tired and worn out the longer you stay on board. But don't give up the ship! Some subtle fixes can make extended cruising more enjoyable. 

Breathing Room

Ever put on a sweater on a sunny, hot July day? That means you know the difference between air conditioning and ventilation. There's a reason the system, and indeed an entire industry, is nicknamed HVAC, and if you skip the V for ventilation you may be missing the whole point. âYour boat engine parts experts understand that ventilation is the paramount part of that HVAC equation,â says Dave Gerr, naval architect and professor at Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology.

Your Boat Parts and Accessories Specialists Will Give You All the Help You Need

You can find more information as well as get assistance on boat engine parts and on the secrets to keeping your crew happy at Stainless Marine.

Back to that cardigan you just buttoned up, you've got your air conditioning blasting because, well, it's hot out. But you're not  always more comfortable because of the temperature, it's often actually because the plenums are moving the air.

Your boating supplies experts know that some boats, of course, need a little help moving air through, particularly if you're anchored out of the wind. In that instance a fan may be just the ticket.We look at the CFM (or cubic feet per minute) which is the air

Keeping the air moving when you're not on your boat lets you start from a better place each time you step aboard. 

Lighten Up

Toning down the light that streams into the saloon through the windows is one thing, but you also may enjoy having more hands-on control of onboard lighting after the sun goes down. There's never been a better time for this with the advent of LEDs suitable for refit.

âThe simplest thing would be to add dimmers,â says Kinder Woodcock, project manager for IMTRA. âUnlike the early days of LEDs for illumination, most LED lights available today can be controlled by dimmers, and that adds a whole new dimension.â

But dimming ain't what it used to be. It's better. âIt was an interesting selling point in the past for us that our LED lights could dim up and down without changing the color,â Woodcock says. 

âWith an incandescent or halogen, you don't just lower the light level when you are dimming,â he continued. âYou're changing the color (or the Kelvin temperature) of the light. The filament is actually turning a different color as the light level decreases, similar to what happens when the sun goes down. So whether you're aware of it or not, we are accustomed to our lights turning more yellow as they were dimmed.â 

The Fabric of Life

You may have been on boats where the furniture is designed to fit a certain space or meet some requirement other than user relaxation and enjoyment. The comfort of onboard furniture starts with the cloth used to cover seating surfaces, armrests, and pillows.

An interior designer can help source furniture and soft goods, but just considering the way you think about your boat's outfitting is a good step towards improving the situation on board.

But welcoming guests aboard is more than just offering them soft cushions and comfortable chairs, it's also about setting a mood, a tone that relaxes everyone-and it has to come from the host, the boat's owner.

Take these factors into account when you consider refitting your interior and everyone onboard will feel safe and comfortable. And there will be nowhere else they'd rather be.

So don't forget these helpful pointers when keeping your crew happy and safe. 1) The skipper and the boat can always take more punishment than the crew;  2) let the crew know what you know;  and 3) always have, and be ready to execute, a Plan B.

Stainless Marine always has more information on boat parts and accessories, boat engine parts, performance marine parts, and on the secrets to keeping your crew happy.

via How to Keep Your Crew Comfortable and Safe

via How to Enhance the Comfort On Your Boat

Making Sense of Google's Changes that Just Blew Up Online Ads for Local Businesses

Yup, Google did it again. Last week, the company dropped a bomb on small businesses who rely on the Adwords Pay-Per-Click program, by announcing that they will no longer show ads along the righthand side of the search engine results pages (SERP). Ad spots 5-9 that used to show on the right rail will now show at the bottom of the SERP, underneath the final organic results.

To cushion the blow, the SERP will now feature a fourth ad at the top of the page, above organic results.

There's really no way to overstate what a massive change this is for everyone in the SEM industry. But it's going to have a more profound – and even devastating – effect on locally-oriented businesses who had relied on Adwords as a key marketing tool.

Why Google made this change is certainly a subject for debate. However, there's no denying that there will be a barrelful of losers who directly suffer from this change. Here are just a few:

Small Businesses Who Advertise Locally
Thousands of small businesses currently use Adwords to drive leads, generate phone calls, promote downloads, or achieve any of a dozen common marketing goals. Targeted, relevant, and cost-effective, Adwords were the most obvious place to compete with larger players. Even tiny companies who ran smart campaigns could drive value out of Adwords at lower positions. That's not going to be the case anymore.

Local SEM Providers
Big local SEM providers (you know their names), are already struggling with harsh churn problems, and are going to see their campaigns suffer tremendously. With thousands of locally-targeted clients, they could afford to bring on campaigns at scale, knowing that there were 9-10 relevant positions on a SERP for their campaigns to appear on. Now, however, these campaigns are going to be forced to increase their campaign budgets and lower their ROI expectations. It's move to the top, or move out altogether. That's not a message that most local SEM providers want to deliver to their clients.

Car Dealerships
With dozens of franchises in any specific DMA, there will only be 4 spots at the top of the page⦠and some will most likely be taken up by the national efforts of the Hondas, Fords and Mercedes of the world. That doesn't leave a lot of room for dealerships to compete for active, in-market car-buying prospects. It's a severe blow to these big local businesses.

Local Insurance Companies
It doesn't take many searches to know that Geico, Nationwide, Liberty and the other national insurance companies are going to dominate the paid listings. This leaves local agents and agencies out in the cold. Those clicks are simply too expensive, and the margin of error too small for local insurance types to compete.

Media Providers
Dozens of companies competed to sell consumers Dish TV and similar services to local prospects. That number will soon plummet in a winner-take-all type of environment, as many of these providers relied on Adwords to drive large quantities of leads and traffic. Not anymore.

Assisted Living and Elder Care
In an inherently local business, many large networks of assisted living and elder care facilities are operating on a national or semi-national basis. They will actively crowd out smaller local operators who won't have the budget or management systems to advertise alongside public behemoths.

And while this appears to be a sudden change, Google has been moving in this direction for some time. Over the last 36 months, they have added a number of elements for that have clearly been skewed for advertisers at the top of the SERPs. With the additions of Shopping ads, Adwords, Site Links, Call Extensions, Seller Ratings and a host of other top-friendly options, Google has given advertisers at the top of its SERPs more visual space, more clicks, and ultimately more customers.

Of course, that increase has come at the expense of its organic listings which were pushed lower on the page, and advertisers who appeared lower in the Adwords auctions.

Now, Google and Adwords have moved 100% in that direction. With only four meaningful positions at the top of the page, advertisers have to make a stark choice: effectively drop out of the paid search engine listings, or load up and compete for the top â even at costs that are sure to increase.

In some local categories, this will simply narrow the field on search results pages. The local plumber who has a strong Adwords campaign is in no danger of having a big national plumbing company entering the market and pushing them out of the SERP. There are no such big plumbing companies.

Instead, each vertical market will take the next 1-3 months to re-organize around Google's new 4-ad dynamic. Many, many, many local advertisers will simply abandon Adwords altogether. In this way, Google will be thinning its own massive herd.

The local plumber mentioned above is going to have to worry about his competitors choosing to instead compete at the top of the page alongside him. This will force the price of clicks at the top of the pages upwards â which one suspects could be the rationale for Google's change to begin with.

Recovering and Moving Forward
This change was an unusually well-kept secret inside Google. That this didn't leak earlier is pretty amazing by itself. Many Google account reps and managers were completely stunned by this change late last week, and expressed varying levels of disbelief because it had such an immediate impact on the work they do directly with advertisers.

That said, there is only moving forward. Those local advertisers who were already competing at the top of Google's pay-per-click auction are in good shape, and won't see much immediate difference. If anything, they will see gains in clicks, conversions and revenue.

But over the next quarter, advertisers across verticals are going to re-examine their budgets and their opportunities. Being at the top of the page may well be more expensive â but it could also still be profitable.

Via: http://streetfightmag.com/2016/02/29/making-sense-of-googles-changes-that-just-blew-up-online-ads-for-local-businesses/#respond