Argonaut Laptop Receives ABS and IMO Certification

Argonaut Computer announced the first marine laptop computer certified by the American Bureau of Shipping and compliant with International Marine Organization standards. The new Ranger model1500T/TXL is a rugged, sunlight readable, high performance PentiumM laptop computer certified for use aboard naval and commercial vessels worldwide. The Ranger has been designed for durability, compatibility and safety for marine, military and industrial environments. On January 24, the Argonaut Ranger 1500T/TXL received the Product Design Assessment (PDA) certification from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). A series of tests were employed for the PDA, including vibration, rolling inclines and temperature extremes, mimicking potential shipboard conditions from engineroom or stormy seas, to the most extreme climates.

The Ranger laptop was also tested and certified to meet the stringent requirements of the International Marine Organization, rating IEC/EN60945. This standard relates to electromagnetic emission and immunity standards for equipment used on the bridge of commercial and naval vessels. Ordinary computers emit radio waves that can potentially interfere and cause dangerous malfunctions when placed close to navigational and communication electronics, typically found on the bridge of commercial and naval vessels. The Ranger was specifically engineered to reduce harmful emissions and passed the IEC/EN60945 standard without malfunction. Magnetic interference is also a concern, addressed by the 60945 test procedures to establish that the device is immune from ship borne magnetic energy. The Ranger was determined to be immune and performed without malfunction when exposed to high levels of magnetism.