Voyage Data Recorder
FURUNO
Refurbished
FURUNO VR-7000 Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) | Marine Black Box System | IMO VDR, Capsule, Data Acquisition Unit, Spare Parts, Repair & Supply | SM MARINE SERVICE™
The FURUNO VR-7000 Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) is one of the most reliable IMO-compliant Voyage Data Recorder systems developed by Furuno Electric Co., Ltd., Japan. Often referred to as the "Black Box of a Ship," the VR-7000 continuously records essential operational data from the vessel's bridge and navigation systems.
Similar to the flight recorder used in aircraft, the VR-7000 stores critical information such as radar images, ECDIS data, GPS position, AIS information, gyro heading, bridge audio, VHF communications, engine commands, alarms, speed, rudder angle, and other navigational parameters. This information becomes invaluable during accident investigations, safety audits, incident analysis, and crew training.
The system is installed on thousands of merchant ships, tankers, offshore vessels, passenger ships, and government vessels worldwide because of its proven reliability, rugged marine construction, and compliance with international SOLAS regulations.
SM MARINE SERVICE™ supplies new, used, and professionally reconditioned FURUNO VR-7000 Voyage Data Recorder systems, including recording units, data acquisition units, float-free capsules, fixed recording capsules, remote alarm panels, interface modules, spare parts, repair services, and worldwide technical support.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Furuno Electric Co., Ltd. |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Product Model | VR-7000 |
| Product Type | Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) |
| System Category | IMO / SOLAS Marine Safety Equipment |
| Primary Function | Continuous Recording of Navigation & Bridge Data |
| Installation | Ship Bridge, Mast & Equipment Rooms |
| Compliance | IMO Performance Standards & SOLAS Requirements |
The FURUNO VR-7000 is a sophisticated marine recording system that continuously collects, synchronizes, and stores operational data from multiple onboard systems. It automatically records bridge conversations, VHF communications, radar images, ECDIS information, GPS position, AIS targets, gyro heading, echo sounder data, engine telegraph commands, alarms, and many other critical signals.
The recorded information is securely stored inside a crash-protected recording capsule, designed to survive severe marine accidents, fire, shock, and prolonged underwater immersion.
Following an incident, investigators can retrieve the recorded data to reconstruct the vessel's movements, bridge operations, communications, and equipment status leading up to the event. This makes the VR-7000 one of the most important safety systems installed on modern commercial ships.
The FURUNO VR-7000 continuously receives information from multiple shipboard systems through dedicated interfaces.
The operating sequence is as follows:
The FURUNO VR-7000 Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) consists of multiple intelligent hardware modules that work together to continuously collect, synchronize, store, and protect critical navigation and operational data. Every component is designed to meet the demanding environmental requirements of the maritime industry.
The Data Acquisition Unit (DAU) serves as the central interface of the VR-7000 system. It receives data from bridge equipment including:
The DAU converts and synchronizes all incoming signals before forwarding them to the recording system.
The Recording Control Unit manages system operation, synchronizes all recorded information with UTC time, monitors equipment status, and controls communication between the DAU and recording capsule.
The Fixed Protective Capsule is the ship's primary data recorder.
It is specially engineered to survive:
This capsule preserves critical voyage information for accident investigation.
Many VR-7000 configurations include a Float-Free Capsule that automatically releases if the vessel sinks.
The capsule:
Installed on the bridge, the Remote Alarm Panel continuously monitors VDR system health and immediately alerts bridge personnel if a fault occurs.
Multiple bridge microphones continuously record:
These recordings become valuable during accident analysis.
The system automatically records:
This ensures complete reconstruction of communications during an incident.
A marine-grade power supply provides uninterrupted operation during both normal navigation and emergency power conditions while protecting the system from voltage fluctuations.
Specialized interface modules enable communication with various bridge systems using standard marine protocols, ensuring reliable integration with existing navigation equipment.
Note: Technical specifications may vary depending on vessel configuration and optional equipment.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Furuno Electric Co., Ltd. |
| Model | VR-7000 |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Product Type | Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) |
| Compliance | IMO Performance Standards & SOLAS |
| Recording Function | Continuous Automatic Recording |
| Recorded Data | Radar, ECDIS, GPS, AIS, Gyro, Audio, VHF, Alarms, Engine Data |
| Recording Capsule | Fixed Protective Capsule / Float-Free Capsule (configuration dependent) |
| Audio Recording | Bridge Microphones & VHF |
| Installation | Bridge, Mast & Equipment Room |
| Operation | Continuous 24/7 Monitoring |
The FURUNO VR-7000 is installed on a wide range of commercial and government vessels where continuous voyage recording is required.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|---|
| VDR alarm active | Communication loss | Inspect interface cables and DAU |
| No GPS data | GPS input failure | Verify GPS interface and wiring |
| Audio recording failure | Microphone or audio interface fault | Test microphones and audio module |
| Radar image not recorded | Video interface issue | Inspect radar interface board |
| Recording capsule communication error | Cable or capsule fault | Check capsule connection and perform diagnostics |
| Power failure alarm | PSU or backup power issue | Inspect power supply and emergency source |
| Memory fault | Storage hardware issue | Run system diagnostics and service as required |
| Interface failure | Loose connector or damaged PCB | Inspect connectors and interface boards |
Preventive inspections and periodic servicing help maintain continuous compliance and reliable operation.
Routine maintenance is essential for keeping the VR-7000 fully operational and compliant.
Annual testing by qualified service personnel helps ensure compliance with IMO and flag state requirements.
The FURUNO VR-7000 is one of the most important safety systems onboard because it:
For these reasons, Voyage Data Recorders are often referred to as the "Black Box" of a ship.
The VR-7000 continuously records navigation, communication, radar, ECDIS, bridge audio, engine commands, alarms, and other voyage data for safety monitoring and accident investigation.
Yes. Many SOLAS-class commercial vessels are required to carry an IMO-compliant Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) or Simplified Voyage Data Recorder (S-VDR), depending on vessel type and applicable regulations.
Frequently requested spare parts include:
Yes. Many electronic modules, including DAUs, power supplies, interface boards, remote alarm panels, processor units, and communication interfaces, can often be repaired depending on their condition.
Yes. We supply complete FURUNO VR-7000 Voyage Data Recorder systems, professionally reconditioned equipment, replacement spare parts, repair services, Annual Performance Test support coordination, and worldwide technical sourcing.
The FURUNO VR-7000 Voyage Data Recorder is a professional IMO-compliant marine "Black Box" designed to continuously record navigation data, bridge communications, radar images, ECDIS information, engine commands, alarms, and vessel operational data. Built with Furuno's proven Japanese engineering, the VR-7000 enhances navigational safety, supports regulatory compliance, and provides essential evidence for accident investigation and fleet safety management.
For proper installation, commissioning, maintenance, troubleshooting, and annual performance verification, always use the official FURUNO VR-7000 Operator's Manual, Installation Manual, Service Manual, Annual Performance Test (APT) Manual, and Parts Catalogue for the exact system configuration installed onboard.
The FURUNO VR-7000 Voyage Data Recorder remains one of the most trusted VDR systems in the global maritime industry. Its ability to continuously capture and securely preserve critical voyage information makes it an indispensable safety device for commercial vessels operating worldwide.
Whether your vessel requires a complete VR-7000 system, Data Acquisition Unit, Recording Capsule, Remote Alarm Panel, Interface Module, electronic PCB repair, spare parts, or technical support, SM MARINE SERVICE™ provides reliable marine solutions backed by worldwide sourcing and professional service.
SM MARINE SERVICE™ is a trusted global supplier of marine automation, navigation, communication, VDR/S-VDR, engine room, hydraulic, fire & safety, and control system equipment.
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