IEC 61996-1:2013

IEC 61996-1 ®
Edition 2.1 2021-05
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR) –
Part 1: Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

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IEC 61996-1 ®
Edition 2.1 2021-05
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –

Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR) –

Part 1: Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 47.020.70 ISBN 978-2-8322-9834-3

IEC 61996-1 ®
Edition 2.1 2021-05
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
REDLINE VERSION
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR) –
Part 1: Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

– 2 – IEC 61996-1:2013+AMD1:2021 CSV
© IEC 2021
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 6
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations . 9
3.1 Terms and definitions . 9
3.2 Abbreviations . 12
4 Performance requirements. 12
4.1 General . 12
4.2 Purpose . 12
4.3 Operational requirements . 12
4.3.1 Design and construction . 12
4.3.2 Maintenance of sequential records . 13
4.3.3 Co-relation in date and time . 13
4.3.4 Final recording medium . 13
4.3.5 Interfaces . 14
4.3.6 Performance test . 15
4.4 Data selection and security . 15
4.4.1 Selection of data items . 15
4.4.2 Configuration data . 15
4.4.3 Resistance to tampering . 16
4.4.4 Recording integrity . 16
4.5 Operation . 17
4.5.1 Recording and saving of data . 17
4.5.2 Power source . 17
4.5.3 Dedicated reserve power source . 17
4.5.4 Recording period and duration . 17
4.6 Data items to be recorded . 17
4.6.1 Date and time . 17
4.6.2 Ship’s position . 18
4.6.3 Speed . 18
4.6.4 Heading . 18
4.6.5 Bridge audio . 18
4.6.6 Communications audio . 18
4.6.7 Radar data – post-display selection . 18
4.6.8 ECDIS . 19
4.6.9 Echo sounder . 19
4.6.10 Main alarms . 19
4.6.11 Rudder order and response . 19
4.6.12 Engine and thruster order and response . 19
4.6.13 Hull openings (doors) status . 19
4.6.14 Watertight and fire door status . 19
4.6.15 Accelerations and hull stresses . 20
4.6.16 Wind speed and direction . 20
4.6.17 AIS . 20
4.6.18 Rolling motion. 20
4.6.19 Configuration data . 20

© IEC 2021
4.6.20 Electronic logbook . 20
5 Technical characteristics . 20
5.1 Co-relation in date and time . 20
5.2 Particular design requirements for the final recording medium . 21
5.2.1 Fixed protective capsule . 21
5.2.2 Float-free capsule . 21
5.2.3 Long-term recording medium . 21
5.3 Location beacons . 21
5.3.1 Fixed protective capsule . 21
5.3.2 Float-free capsule . 22
5.4 Survivability of recorded data . 22
5.4.1 Long-term retention . 22
5.4.2 Physical protection . 22
5.5 Information to be included in the manufacturer’s documentation . 23
5.5.1 Installation guidelines . 23
5.5.2 Operation and maintenance manual . 23
5.5.3 Information for use by an investigation authority . 24
5.6 Bridge audio specifications . 24
5.6.1 Input interface . 24
5.6.2 Reference signal. 24
5.6.3 Audio frequency response . 24
5.6.4 Quality index . 24
5.6.5 Signal noise level – Signal to noise and distortion . 25
5.6.6 Ability to handle complex signals . 25
5.6.7 Suppression of low frequency out band noise . 25
5.6.8 Microphones . 25
5.7 Communications audio . 26
5.7.1 Input interfaces . 26
5.7.2 Reference signal. 26
5.7.3 Audio frequency response . 26
5.7.4 Quality index . 26
5.7.5 Audio noise level – Signal to no signal . 26
5.7.6 Signal noise level – Signal to noise and distortion (SINAD) . 26
5.8 Screen image capture . 27
5.8.1 Input interface . 27
5.8.2 Image outputs . 27
5.9 Radar data – Post-display selection . 28
5.10 ECDIS data . 28
5.11 Configuration data . 28
5.11.1 Distribution of data in final recording media . 28
5.11.2 Protection . 28
5.11.3 Synchronisation of sensor and configuration data . 28
5.12 Operational performance test . 29
5.13 Bridge alert management system . 29
6 Methods of testing and required test results . 29
6.1 General . 29
6.1.1 Test setup . 29
6.1.2 Download and playback equipment . 30
6.1.3 Sequence of tests . 31

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© IEC 2021
6.1.4 Requirements to be checked by inspection only . 31
6.1.5 Environmental test conditions for normal operation . 31
6.1.6 Recording duration . 31
6.1.7 Reserve power source . 32
6.1.8 Recharging of reserve source of power . 32
6.1.9 Brief interruption of electrical power. 33
6.1.10 Recording integrity . 33
6.1.11 Maintenance of sequential records . 33
6.1.12 Co-relation in date and time . 33
6.1.13 Design and construction of the fixed protective capsule . 34
6.1.14 Design and construction of the float-free capsule . 36
6.1.15 Operational performance test. 37
6.1.16 Power source . 38
6.2 Data items to be recorded . 38
6.2.1 Date/time – Ship’s position – Speed – Heading . 38
6.2.2 Bridge audio . 38
6.2.3 Communications audio . 43
6.2.4 Radar data, post-display selection and ECDIS . 46
6.2.5 Other items . 54
6.2.6 Electronic logbook . 55
6.3 Interfaces . 55
Annex A (normative) IEC 61162 sentence formats . 56
Annex B (informative) Mandatory alarms . 57
Annex C (normative) Download and playback equipment for investigating authorities . 60
Annex D (informative) Requirement/test – Cross-references . 64
Annex E (normative) LAN image protocol . 66
Annex F (informative) Network for image transmission . 70
Annex G (normative) ECDIS display source information . 73
Bibliography . 78

Figure 1 – Insertion of Morse letter “V” in homing transmission . 22
Figure 2 – Test set-up block diagram . 48
Figure 3 – Comparison of images . 52
Figure F.1 – Network with a switch . 70
Figure F.2 – Network with direct connections . 71
Figure F.3 – Network for a ship with an extensive bridge . 72

Table 1 – Bridge audio, signal to no signal measurements . 40
Table 2 – Bridge audio, signal to noise and distortion (SINAD) measurements . 41
Table 3 – Complex signals . 42
Table 4 – Communications audio, signal to no-signal measurements . 45
Table 5 – Communications audio, signal to noise and distortion (SINAD)
measurements . 46
Table 6 – Intersection colours of test images 1 and 2 . 50
Table A.1 – References in this standard. 56
Table B.1 – Mandatory alarms on the bridge . 57

© IEC 2021
Table D.1 – Subject list and subclauses (1 of 2). 64
Table E.1 – Default values for transmitting equipment . 69
Table E.2 – Default values for receiving equipment . 69
Table G.1 – Required chart information. 74
Table G.2 – Additional chart information . 74

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© IEC 2021
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
SHIPBORNE VOYAGE DATA RECORDER (VDR) –
Part 1: Performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results
FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
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with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
Committees in that sense. While all reasonable efforts are made to ensure that the technical content of IEC
Publications is accurate, IEC cannot be held responsible for the way in which they are used or for any
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4) In order to promote international uniformity, IEC National Committees undertake to apply IEC Publications
transparently to the maximum extent possible in their national and regional publications. Any divergence
between any IEC Publication and the corresponding national or regional publication shall be clearly indicated in
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5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
members of its technical committees and IEC National Committees for any personal injury, property damage or
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expenses arising out of the publication, use of, or reliance upon, this IEC Publication or any other IEC
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This consolidated version of the official IEC Standard and its amendment has been
prepared for user convenience.
IEC 61996-1 edition 2.1 contains the second edition (2013-05) [documents 80/690/FDIS
and 80/699/RVD], its corrigendum 1 (2014-02) and its amendment 1 (2021-05)
[documents 80/976/CDV and 80/993/RVC].
In this Redline version, a vertical line in the margin shows where the technical content
is modified by amendment 1. Additions are in green text, deletions are in strikethrough
red text. A separate Final version with all changes accepted is available in this
publication.
© IEC 2021
International Standard IEC 61996-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 80:
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems.
This second edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition.
a) The description of the protective capsule in 4.3.4 has been changed in line with the
requirements of the new IMO performance standards given in Resolution MSC.333(90)
which now require a final recording medium comprising three parts; fixed, float-free and
long-term.
b) A new requirement for a performance test has been added in 4.3.6.
c) Further data items to be recorded have been added to 4.6 for ECDIS, AIS, rolling motion
and electronic logbooks.
d) Clause 5 contains new technical requirements for configuration data, operational
performance test and bridge alert management system. In addition, further technical
requirements have been added to 5.6 for bridge audio and to 5.8 for radar and ECDIS
images.
e) References to “alarm” requirements in the previous edition have been substituted by
references to “cautions” in line with current IMO recommendations. The test methods in
Clause 6 have been updated to reflect the new requirements.
f) New Annexes E, F and G concerning protocols for interfacing images using a Local Area
Network have been added.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of the IEC 61996 series, under the general title Maritime navigation and
radiocommunication equipment and systems – Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR), can be
found on the IEC website.
NOTE All text of this standard, whose wording is identical to that of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90), is printed in
italics, and the Resolution and associated performance standard paragraph numbers are indicated in brackets.
The committee has decided that the contents of the base publication and its amendment will
remain unchanged until the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under
"http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the
publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
– 8 – IEC 61996-1:2013+AMD1:2021 CSV
© IEC 2021
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
SHIPBORNE VOYAGE DATA RECORDER (VDR) –

Part 1: Performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

1 Scope
This part of IEC 61996 specifies the minimum performance requirements, technical
characteristics, methods of testing and required test results, for shipborne voyage data
recorder (VDR) installations as required by Chapter V of the International Convention for
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), as amended. It takes account of IMO resolution A.694(17) and
is associated with IEC 60945. When a requirement in this standard is different from
IEC 60945, the requirement in this standard takes precedence.
This standard incorporates the applicable parts of the performance standards included in IMO
Resolution MSC.333(90).
NOTE All text of this standard, whose wording is identical to that of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90), is printed in
italics, and the Resolution and associated performance standard paragraph numbers are indicated in brackets.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60068-2-27:2008, Environmental testing – Part 2-27: Tests – Test Ea and guidance:
Shock
IEC 60268-16, Sound system equipment – Part 16: Objective rating of speech intelligibility
by speech transmission index
IEC 60945, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – General
requirements – Methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61097-2, Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) – Part 2: COSPAS-
SARSAT EPIRB – Satellite emergency position indicating radio beacon operating on 406 MHz
– Operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61097-7:1996, Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) – Part 7:
Shipborne VHF radiotelephone transmitter and receiver – Operational and performance
requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61162 (all parts), Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems
– Digital interfaces
IEC 61162-450:2011, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Digital interfaces – Part 450: Multiple talkers and multiple listeners – Ethernet interconnection

© IEC 2021
IEC 61174, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS) – Operational and performance
requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61260:1995, Electroacoustics – Octave-band and fractional-octave-band filters
Amendment 1:2001
IEC 61672-1:2002, Electroacoustics – Sound level meters – Part 1: Specifications
IEC 62388:2007, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne radar – Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IMO A.658(16), Use and fitting of retro-reflective materials on life-saving appliances
IMO A.662(16), Performance standards for float-free release and activation arrangements for
emergency radio equipment
IMO A.694(17), General requirements for shipborne radio equipment forming part of the
Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) and for electronic navigational aids
IMO A.810(19), Performance standards for float-free satellite emergency position-indicating
radio beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHz
IMO Resolution MSC.471(101), Performance standards for float-free emergency position-
indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHz
IMO A.1021(26), Code on alerts and indicators
IMO MSC.333(90):2012, Performance standards for shipborne Voyage Data Recorders
(VDRs)
EUROCAE ED-112:2003, Minimum operational performance specification (MOPS) for crash
protected airborne recorder systems
VESA:2007, Video electronics standards association – VESA and industry standards and
guidelines for computer display monitor timing (DMT), Version 1.0, Revision 0.11
SAE AS8045A:2011, Engineering Society for advancing mobility land sea air and space –
Minimum performance standard for underwater locating devices – Acoustic, self-powered
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1.1
alert
announcement of abnormal situations and conditions requiring attention. Alerts are divided in
four priorities: emergency alarms, alarms, warnings and cautions
Note 1 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).

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© IEC 2021
3.1.2
alarm
high priority of an alert. A condition requiring immediate attention and action, to maintain the
safe navigation and operation of the ship
Note 1 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).
3.1.3
bridge work station
position at which a person is expected to be when performing one of the normal bridge duties
at, for example, the following work stations:
• centre line conning;
• bridge wing(s);
• main radar;
• chart table;
• helmsman;
• communication
3.1.4
caution
lowest priority of an alert. A condition which does not warrant an alarm or warning condition,
but still requires attention and out of the ordinary consideration of the situation or of given
information
Note 1 to entry: A caution is indicated by a steady visual indication with a message of sufficient detail to enable
the bridge team to identify and address the caution condition. No acknowledgement is required and the caution
should be automatically removed after the condition is rectified.
Note 2 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).
3.1.5
combined EPIRB/VDR capsule
single unit which meets all the requirements of a satellite EPIRB (as required by the carriage
requirements of SOLAS IV) and all the requirements of a VDR (as required by the carriage
requirements of SOLAS V)
Note 1 to entry: Combined EPIRB/VDR capsule was defined by IMO COMSAR 8.
3.1.6
configuration data
describes the vessel's equipment, its installation on the vessel and its relation to the VDR.
The storage and playback software uses this data to store the data record and to convert the
data record into information that assists casualty investigation during playback
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.10).
3.1.7
data
any item of information received by the VDR for recording, including numerical values, text
and audio or radar signals and including all configuration data, except where specifically
stated or where the context dictates otherwise
3.1.8
dedicated reserve power source
a battery, with suitable automatic charging arrangements, dedicated solely to the VDR, of
sufficient capacity to operate it as required by 5.4.2
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.9).

© IEC 2021
3.1.9
final recording medium
the items of hardware on which the data is recorded such that access to any one of them
would enable the data to be recovered and played back by use of suitable equipment. The
combination of a fixed recording medium and float-free recording medium and long-term
recording medium, together, is recognized as the final recording medium
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.3).
3.1.10
fixed recording medium
part of the Final Recording Medium which is protected against fire, shock, penetration and a
prolonged period on the ocean floor. It is expected to be recovered from the deck of the
vessel that has sunk. It has a means of indicating location
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.4).
3.1.11
float-free recording medium
part of the Final Recording Medium which should float-free after a sinking. It has a means of
indicating location
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.5).
3.1.12
long-term recording medium
permanently installed part of the Final Recording Medium. It provides the longest record
duration and has a readily accessible interface for downloading the stored data
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.6).
3.1.13
playback equipment
any data medium with the playback software, the operational instructions and any special
parts required for connecting a commercial-off-the-shelf laptop computer to the VDR
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.7).
3.1.14
playback software
copy of the software program to provide the capability to download the stored data and play
back the information. The software should be compatible with an operating system available
with commercial-off-the-shelf laptop computers and where non-standard or proprietary formats
are used for storing the data in the VDR, the software should convert the stored data into
open industry standard formats
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.8).
3.1.15
playback system
system including the playback equipment that is capable of downloading and playing back the
recorded data
3.1.16
recorder
VDR
complete system, including any items required to interface with the sources of input signals,
their processing and encoding, the final recording medium, the playback equipment, the
power supply and dedicated reserve power source
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.1).

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© IEC 2021
3.1.17
resolution
smallest detectable increment between two values
3.1.18
signal source
any sensor or device external to the VDR, to which the VDR is connected and from which it
obtains signals and data to be recorded
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.2).
3.2 Abbreviations
EPFS Electronic position-fixing system
EUT Equipment under test
FFT Fast Fourier Transform
GMDSS Global maritime distress and safety system
IMO International Maritime Organization
INS Integrated navigation system
ITU International Telecommunication Union
LAN Local area network
ROV Remotely operated vehicle
SAR Search and rescue
SINAD Signal to noise and distortion
SPL Sound pressure level
STI Speech transmission index
STIPA Speech transmission index for public address systems
UTC Coordinated universal time
VHF Very high frequency
4 Performance requirements
4.1 General
Performance requirements described in this clause are specified by reference to the
numbered paragraphs of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90).
4.2 Purpose
(MSC.333(90)/1) The purpose of a Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) is to maintain a store, in a
secure and retrievable form, of information concerning the position, movement, physical
status, command and control of a vessel over the period leading up to, and following, an
incident having an impact thereon. Information contained in a VDR shall be made available to
both the Administration and the shipowner. This information is for use during any subsequent
safety investigation to identify the cause(s) of the incident.
4.3 Operational requirements
4.3.1 Design and construction
(See 6.1.5)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.4) The design and construction, which shall be in accordance with the
requirements of resolution A.694(17) and international standards acceptable to the

© IEC 2021
International Maritime Organization (IMO), shall take special account of the requirements for
data security and continuity of operation as detailed in 4.4 and 4.5.
4.3.2 Maintenance of sequential records
(See 6.1.11)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.1) The VDR shall continuously maintain sequential records of pre-selected
data items relating to the status and output of the ship's equipment, and command and control
of the ship, referred to in 4.6.
4.3.3 Co-relation in date and time
(See 6.1.12)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.2, 5.5.1) To permit subsequent analysis of factors surrounding an
incident, the method of recording shall ensure that the various data items can be co-related in
date and time during playback on suitable equipment.
The recording method shall be such that the timing of all recorded data items can be derived
on playback with a resolution sufficient to reconstruct the history of an incident in detail
(see 4.6.1).
4.3.4 Final recording medium
4.3.4.1 Items of final recording medium
4.3.4.1.1 General
(MSC.333(90)/5.2) The final recording medium shall consist of the following items:
1) Fixed recording medium;
2) Float-free recording medium; and
3) Long-term recording medium.
4.3.4.1.2 Fixed recording medium
(See 6.1.13)
(MSC.333(90)/5.2.1) The fixed recording medium shall be installed in a fixed protective
capsule which shall meet all of the following requirements:
1) be capable of being accessed following an incident but secure against a physical or
electronically manipulated change or deletion of recorded data;
2) maintain the recorded data for a period of at least 2 years following termination of
recording;
3) maximize the probability of survival against fire, shock, penetration and deep-sea-
pressure and recovery of the final recorded data after any incident;
4) be of a highly visible colour and marked with retro-reflective materials; and
5) be fitted with an appropriate device to aid location under water.
4.3.4.1.3 Float-free recording medium
(See 6.1.14)
(MSC.333(90)/5.2.2) The float-free recording medium shall be installed in a float-free
capsule which shall meet all of the following requirements:
1) be fitted with means to facilitate grappling and recovery;

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© IEC 2021
2) maintain the recorded data for a period of at least 6 months following termination of
recording;
3) be so constructed as to comply with the requirements specified in resolution IMO
A.810(19) IMO MSC.471(101) and to minimize risk of damage during recovery operations;
4) be capable of transmitting an initial locating signal and further locating homing signal for
at least 48 hours over a period of not less than 7 days/168 hours; and
5) be capable of being accessed following an incident but secure against a physical or
electronically manipulated change or deletion of recorded data.
4.3.4.1.4 Long-term recording medium
(See 6.1.4)
(MSC.333(90)/5.2.3) The long-term recording medium shall:
1) be capable of being accessed from an internal, easily accessible area of the vessel; and
2) provide access to the data held on it but be secured against a physical or electronically
manipulated change or deletion of recorded data.
4.3.4.2 Assessment of fixed recording medium
(See 6.1.4)
Where the storage medium cannot be readily and reliably inspected after an incident, means
shall be provided to enable an accident investigator to determine, prior to an attempted
replay, whether the storage medium has been subjected to an excessive level of heat, where
the survival of the stored data may be in doubt.
4.3.4.3 Access to data in capsule
(See 6.1.4)
A capsule is used to enclose the fixed and float-free final recording medium (4.3.4.1.2 and
4.3.4.1.3).
A means shall be provided to retrieve stored information from the capsule via an external
device without opening the capsule.
4.3.4.4 Capsule visibility and marking
(See 6.1.4)
The capsule, together with any outermost shell, shall be of a highly visible fluorescent orange
colour, marked with retro-reflective materials that comply with the relevant requirements of
IMO A.658(16) and marked with the legend:
“VOYAGE DATA RECORDER – DO NOT OPEN –
REPORT TO AUTHORITIES”
4.3.4.5 Capsule location aid
The fixed recording medium capsule shall include an acoustic underwater beacon (see 5.3).
The float-free recording medium capsule shall include a suitable radio transmitter and a light
(see 5.2 and 6.1.4).
4.3.5 Interfaces
(See 6.3)
© IEC 2021
4.3.5.1 Compliance with IEC 61162
(MSC.333(90)/8) Interfacing to the various signal sources required shall be in accordance
with the relevant international interface standard, IEC 61162 series, where possible. Any
connection to any item of the ship's equipment shall be such that the operation of that
equipment suffers no deterioration, even if the VDR system develops faults.
As a minimum, the equipment shall support the sentences given in Annex A.
The interfaces for bridge audio, communications audio and screen image capture are defined
in 5.6.1, 5.7.1 and 5.8.1 respectively.
Any interface units which may be required to convert non-IEC
...

IEC 61996-1 ®
Edition 2.0 2013-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR) –
Part 1: Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

Matériels et systèmes de navigation et de radiocommunication maritimes –
Enregistreur de données de navigation embarqué (VDR) –
Partie 1: Exigences de fonctionnement, méthodes d'essai et résultats d'essai
exigés
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IEC 61996-1 ®
Edition 2.0 2013-05
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –

Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR) –

Part 1: Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

Matériels et systèmes de navigation et de radiocommunication maritimes –

Enregistreur de données de navigation embarqué (VDR) –

Partie 1: Exigences de fonctionnement, méthodes d'essai et résultats d'essai

exigés
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 47.020.70 ISBN 978-2-8322-4484-5

– 2 – IEC 61996-1:2013 © IEC 2013
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 6
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations . 9
3.1 Terms and definitions . 9
3.2 Abbreviations . 12
4 Performance requirements . 12
4.1 General . 12
4.2 Purpose . 12
4.3 Operational requirements . 12
4.3.1 Design and construction . 12
4.3.2 Maintenance of sequential records . 13
4.3.3 Co-relation in date and time . 13
4.3.4 Final recording medium . 13
4.3.5 Interfaces . 14
4.3.6 Performance test . 15
4.4 Data selection and security . 15
4.4.1 Selection of data items . 15
4.4.2 Configuration data. 15
4.4.3 Resistance to tampering. 16
4.4.4 Recording integrity . 16
4.5 Operation . 17
4.5.1 Recording and saving of data . 17
4.5.2 Power source . 17
4.5.3 Dedicated reserve power source . 17
4.5.4 Recording period and duration . 17
4.6 Data items to be recorded . 17
4.6.1 Date and time . 17
4.6.2 Ship’s position . 18
4.6.3 Speed . 18
4.6.4 Heading . 18
4.6.5 Bridge audio . 18
4.6.6 Communications audio . 18
4.6.7 Radar data – post-display selection . 18
4.6.8 ECDIS . 19
4.6.9 Echo sounder . 19
4.6.10 Main alarms . 19
4.6.11 Rudder order and response . 19
4.6.12 Engine and thruster order and response . 19
4.6.13 Hull openings (doors) status . 19
4.6.14 Watertight and fire door status . 20
4.6.15 Accelerations and hull stresses . 20
4.6.16 Wind speed and direction . 20
4.6.17 AIS . 20
4.6.18 Rolling motion . 20
4.6.19 Configuration data. 20

4.6.20 Electronic logbook . 20
5 Technical characteristics . 21
5.1 Co-relation in date and time. 21
5.2 Particular design requirements for the final recording medium . 21
5.2.1 Fixed protective capsule . 21
5.2.2 Float-free capsule . 21
5.2.3 Long-term recording medium . 21
5.3 Location beacons . 22
5.3.1 Fixed protective capsule . 22
5.3.2 Float-free capsule . 22
5.4 Survivability of recorded data . 22
5.4.1 Long-term retention . 22
5.4.2 Physical protection . 22
5.5 Information to be included in the manufacturer’s documentation . 23
5.5.1 Installation guidelines . 23
5.5.2 Operation and maintenance manual . 23
5.5.3 Information for use by an investigation authority . 24
5.6 Bridge audio specifications . 24
5.6.1 Input interface . 24
5.6.2 Reference signal . 24
5.6.3 Audio frequency response . 24
5.6.4 Quality index . 25
5.6.5 Signal noise level – Signal to noise and distortion . 25
5.6.6 Ability to handle complex signals . 25
5.6.7 Suppression of low frequency out band noise . 25
5.6.8 Microphones . 26
5.7 Communications audio . 26
5.7.1 Input interfaces . 26
5.7.2 Reference signal . 26
5.7.3 Audio frequency response . 26
5.7.4 Quality index . 26
5.7.5 Audio noise level – Signal to no signal . 27
5.7.6 Signal noise level – Signal to noise and distortion (SINAD) . 27
5.8 Screen image capture . 27
5.8.1 Input interface . 27
5.8.2 Image outputs . 28
5.9 Radar data – Post-display selection . 28
5.10 ECDIS data . 28
5.11 Configuration data . 29
5.11.1 Distribution of data in final recording media . 29
5.11.2 Protection . 29
5.11.3 Synchronisation of sensor and configuration data . 29
5.12 Operational performance test . 29
5.13 Bridge alert management system . 29
6 Methods of testing and required test results . 29
6.1 General . 29
6.1.1 Test setup. 29
6.1.2 Download and playback equipment. 30
6.1.3 Sequence of tests . 31

– 4 – IEC 61996-1:2013 © IEC 2013
6.1.4 Requirements to be checked by inspection only . 31
6.1.5 Environmental test conditions for normal operation . 31
6.1.6 Recording duration . 32
6.1.7 Reserve power source . 32
6.1.8 Recharging of reserve source of power . 33
6.1.9 Brief interruption of electrical power . 33
6.1.10 Recording integrity . 33
6.1.11 Maintenance of sequential records . 34
6.1.12 Co-relation in date and time . 34
6.1.13 Design and construction of the fixed protective capsule . 34
6.1.14 Design and construction of the float-free capsule . 36
6.1.15 Operational performance test . 37
6.1.16 Power source . 38
6.2 Data items to be recorded . 38
6.2.1 Date/time – Ship’s position – Speed – Heading . 38
6.2.2 Bridge audio . 38
6.2.3 Communications audio . 44
6.2.4 Radar data, post-display selection and ECDIS . 47
6.2.5 Other items . 55
6.2.6 Electronic logbook . 56
6.3 Interfaces . 56
Annex A (normative) IEC 61162 sentence formats . 57
Annex B (informative) Mandatory alarms . 58
Annex C (normative) Download and playback equipment for investigating authorities . 61
Annex D (informative) Requirement/test – Cross-references . 65
Annex E (normative) LAN image protocol . 67
Annex F (informative) Network for image transmission . 71
Annex G (normative) ECDIS display source information . 74
Bibliography . 79

Figure 1 – Insertion of Morse letter “V” in homing transmission . 22
Figure 2 – Test set-up block diagram . 49
Figure 3 – Comparison of images . 53
Figure F.1 – Network with a switch . 71
Figure F.2 – Network with direct connections . 72
Figure F.3 – Network for a ship with an extensive bridge. 73

Table 1 – Bridge audio, signal to no signal measurements . 41
Table 2 – Bridge audio, signal to noise and distortion (SINAD) measurements . 42
Table 3 – Complex signals . 43
Table 4 – Communications audio, signal to no-signal measurements . 46
Table 5 – Communications audio, signal to noise and distortion (SINAD) measurements . 47
Table 6 – Intersection colours of test images 1 and 2 . 51
Table A.1 – References in this standard . 57
Table B.1 – Mandatory alarms on the bridge . 58
Table D.1 – Subject list and subclauses (1 of 2) . 65

Table E.1 – Default values for transmitting equipment . 70
Table E.2 – Default values for receiving equipment . 70
Table G.1 – Required chart information . 75
Table G.2 – Additional chart information . 75

– 6 – IEC 61996-1:2013 © IEC 2013
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
SHIPBORNE VOYAGE DATA RECORDER (VDR) –

Part 1: Performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
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with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in accordance with conditions determined by
agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
consensus of opinion on the relevant subjects since each technical committee has representation from all
interested IEC National Committees.
3) IEC Publications have the form of recommendations for international use and are accepted by IEC National
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5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
7) No liability shall attach to IEC or its directors, employees, servants or agents including individual experts and
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 61996-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 80:
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2007 and constitutes a
technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition.
a) The description of the protective capsule in 4.3.4 has been changed in line with the
requirements of the new IMO performance standards given in Resolution MSC.333(90)
which now require a final recording medium comprising three parts; fixed, float-free and
long-term.
b) A new requirement for a performance test has been added in 4.3.6.
c) Further data items to be recorded have been added to 4.6 for ECDIS, AIS, rolling motion
and electronic logbooks.
d) Clause 5 contains new technical requirements for configuration data, operational
performance test and bridge alert management system. In addition, further technical
requirements have been added to 5.6 for bridge audio and to 5.8 for radar and ECDIS
images.
e) References to “alarm” requirements in the previous edition have been substituted by
references to “cautions” in line with current IMO recommendations. The test methods in
Clause 6 have been updated to reflect the new requirements.
f) New Annexes E, F and G concerning protocols for interfacing images using a Local Area
Network have been added.
This bilingual version (2017-06) corresponds to the English version, published in 2013-05.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
FDIS Report on voting
80/690/FDIS 80/699/RVD
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
The French version of this standard has not been voted upon.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of the IEC 61996 series, under the general title Maritime navigation and
radiocommunication equipment and systems – Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR), can be
found on the IEC website.
NOTE All text of this standard, whose wording is identical to that of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90), is printed in
italics, and the Resolution and associated performance standard paragraph numbers are indicated in brackets.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until the
stability date indicated on the IEC web site under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to
the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
– 8 – IEC 61996-1:2013 © IEC 2013
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
SHIPBORNE VOYAGE DATA RECORDER (VDR) –

Part 1: Performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

1 Scope
This part of IEC 61996 specifies the minimum performance requirements, technical
characteristics, methods of testing and required test results, for shipborne voyage data
recorder (VDR) installations as required by Chapter V of the International Convention for Safety
of Life at Sea (SOLAS), as amended. It takes account of IMO resolution A.694(17) and is
associated with IEC 60945. When a requirement in this standard is different from IEC 60945,
the requirement in this standard takes precedence.
This standard incorporates the applicable parts of the performance standards included in IMO
Resolution MSC.333(90).
NOTE All text of this standard, whose wording is identical to that of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90), is printed in
italics, and the Resolution and associated performance standard paragraph numbers are indicated in brackets.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments)
applies.
IEC 60068-2-27:2008, Environmental testing – Part 2-27: Tests – Test Ea and guidance:
Shock
IEC 60268-16, Sound system equipment – Part 16: Objective rating of speech intelligibility by
speech transmission index
IEC 60945, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – General
requirements – Methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61097-2, Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) – Part 2: COSPAS-
SARSAT EPIRB – Satellite emergency position indicating radio beacon operating on 406 MHz –
Operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61097-7:1996, Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) – Part 7: Shipborne
VHF radiotelephone transmitter and receiver – Operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61162 (all parts), Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Digital interfaces
IEC 61162-450:2011, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Digital interfaces – Part 450: Multiple talkers and multiple listeners – Ethernet interconnection

IEC 61174, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – Electronic
chart display and information system (ECDIS) – Operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61260:1995, Electroacoustics – Octave-band and fractional-octave-band filters
Amendment 1:2001
IEC 61672-1:2002, Electroacoustics – Sound level meters – Part 1: Specifications
IEC 62388:2007, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne radar – Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IMO A.658(16), Use and fitting of retro-reflective materials on life-saving appliances
IMO A.662(16), Performance standards for float-free release and activation arrangements for
emergency radio equipment
IMO A.694(17), General requirements for shipborne radio equipment forming part of the
Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) and for electronic navigational aids
IMO A.810(19), Performance standards for float-free satellite emergency position-indicating
radio beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHz
IMO A.1021(26), Code on alerts and indicators
IMO MSC.333(90):2012, Performance standards for shipborne Voyage Data Recorders
(VDRs)
EUROCAE ED-112:2003, Minimum operational performance specification (MOPS) for crash
protected airborne recorder systems
VESA:2007, Video electronics standards association – VESA and industry standards and
guidelines for computer display monitor timing (DMT), Version 1.0, Revision 0.11
SAE AS8045A:2011, Engineering Society for advancing mobility land sea air and space –
Minimum performance standard for underwater locating devices – Acoustic, self-powered
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1.1
alert
announcement of abnormal situations and conditions requiring attention. Alerts are divided in
four priorities: emergency alarms, alarms, warnings and cautions
Note 1 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).

– 10 – IEC 61996-1:2013 © IEC 2013
3.1.2
alarm
high priority of an alert. A condition requiring immediate attention and action, to maintain the
safe navigation and operation of the ship
Note 1 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).
3.1.3
bridge work station
position at which a person is expected to be when performing one of the normal bridge duties
at, for example, the following work stations:
• centre line conning;
• bridge wing(s);
• main radar;
• chart table;
• helmsman;
• communication
3.1.4
caution
lowest priority of an alert. A condition which does not warrant an alarm or warning condition,
but still requires attention and out of the ordinary consideration of the situation or of given
information
Note 1 to entry: A caution is indicated by a steady visual indication with a message of sufficient detail to enable
the bridge team to identify and address the caution condition. No acknowledgement is required and the caution
should be automatically removed after the condition is rectified.
Note 2 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).
3.1.5
combined EPIRB/VDR capsule
single unit which meets all the requirements of a satellite EPIRB (as required by the carriage
requirements of SOLAS IV) and all the requirements of a VDR (as required by the carriage
requirements of SOLAS V)
Note 1 to entry: Combined EPIRB/VDR capsule was defined by IMO COMSAR 8.
3.1.6
configuration data
describes the vessel's equipment, its installation on the vessel and its relation to the VDR. The
storage and playback software uses this data to store the data record and to convert the data
record into information that assists casualty investigation during playback
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.10).
3.1.7
data
any item of information received by the VDR for recording, including numerical values, text and
audio or radar signals and including all configuration data, except where specifically stated or
where the context dictates otherwise
3.1.8
dedicated reserve power source
a battery, with suitable automatic charging arrangements, dedicated solely to the VDR, of
sufficient capacity to operate it as required by 5.4.2
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.9).

3.1.9
final recording medium
the items of hardware on which the data is recorded such that access to any one of them would
enable the data to be recovered and played back by use of suitable equipment. The
combination of a fixed recording medium and float-free recording medium and long-term
recording medium, together, is recognized as the final recording medium
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.3).
3.1.10
fixed recording medium
part of the Final Recording Medium which is protected against fire, shock, penetration and a
prolonged period on the ocean floor. It is expected to be recovered from the deck of the vessel
that has sunk. It has a means of indicating location
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.4).
3.1.11
float-free recording medium
part of the Final Recording Medium which should float-free after a sinking. It has a means of
indicating location
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.5).
3.1.12
long-term recording medium
permanently installed part of the Final Recording Medium. It provides the longest record
duration and has a readily accessible interface for downloading the stored data
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.6).
3.1.13
playback equipment
any data medium with the playback software, the operational instructions and any special parts
required for connecting a commercial-off-the-shelf laptop computer to the VDR
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.7).
3.1.14
playback software
copy of the software program to provide the capability to download the stored data and play
back the information. The software should be compatible with an operating system available
with commercial-off-the-shelf laptop computers and where non-standard or proprietary formats
are used for storing the data in the VDR, the software should convert the stored data into open
industry standard formats
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.8).
3.1.15
playback system
system including the playback equipment that is capable of downloading and playing back the
recorded data
3.1.16
recorder
VDR
complete system, including any items required to interface with the sources of input signals,
their processing and encoding, the final recording medium, the playback equipment, the power
supply and dedicated reserve power source
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.1).

– 12 – IEC 61996-1:2013 © IEC 2013
3.1.17
resolution
smallest detectable increment between two values
3.1.18
signal source
any sensor or device external to the VDR, to which the VDR is connected and from which it
obtains signals and data to be recorded
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.2).
3.2 Abbreviations
EPFS Electronic position-fixing system
EUT Equipment under test
FFT Fast Fourier Transform
GMDSS Global maritime distress and safety system
IMO International Maritime Organization
INS Integrated navigation system
ITU International Telecommunication Union
LAN Local area network
ROV Remotely operated vehicle
SAR Search and rescue
SINAD Signal to noise and distortion
SPL Sound pressure level
STI Speech transmission index
STIPA Speech transmission index for public address systems
UTC Coordinated universal time
VHF Very high frequency
4 Performance requirements
4.1 General
Performance requirements described in this clause are specified by reference to the numbered
paragraphs of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90).
4.2 Purpose
(MSC.333(90)/1) The purpose of a Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) is to maintain a store, in a
secure and retrievable form, of information concerning the position, movement, physical status,
command and control of a vessel over the period leading up to, and following, an incident
having an impact thereon. Information contained in a VDR shall be made available to both the
Administration and the shipowner. This information is for use during any subsequent safety
investigation to identify the cause(s) of the incident.
4.3 Operational requirements
4.3.1 Design and construction
(See 6.1.5)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.4) The design and construction, which shall be in accordance with the
requirements of resolution A.694(17) and international standards acceptable to the

International Maritime Organization (IMO), shall take special account of the requirements for
data security and continuity of operation as detailed in 4.4 and 4.5.
4.3.2 Maintenance of sequential records
(See 6.1.11)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.1) The VDR shall continuously maintain sequential records of pre-selected
data items relating to the status and output of the ship's equipment, and command and control
of the ship, referred to in 4.6.
4.3.3 Co-relation in date and time
(See 6.1.12)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.2, 5.5.1) To permit subsequent analysis of factors surrounding an incident,
the method of recording shall ensure that the various data items can be co-related in date and
time during playback on suitable equipment.
The recording method shall be such that the timing of all recorded data items can be derived on
playback with a resolution sufficient to reconstruct the history of an incident in detail
(see 4.6.1).
4.3.4 Final recording medium
4.3.4.1 Items of final recording medium
4.3.4.1.1 General
(MSC.333(90)/5.2) The final recording medium shall consist of the following items:
1) Fixed recording medium;
2) Float-free recording medium; and
3) Long-term recording medium.
4.3.4.1.2 Fixed recording medium
(See 6.1.13)
(MSC.333(90)/5.2.1) The fixed recording medium shall be installed in a fixed protective
capsule which shall meet all of the following requirements:
1) be capable of being accessed following an incident but secure against a physical or
electronically manipulated change or deletion of recorded data;
2) maintain the recorded data for a period of at least 2 years following termination of
recording;
3) maximize the probability of survival against fire, shock, penetration and deep-sea-pressure
and recovery of the final recorded data after any incident;
4) be of a highly visible colour and marked with retro-reflective materials; and
5) be fitted with an appropriate device to aid location under water.
4.3.4.1.3 Float-free recording medium
(See 6.1.14)
(MSC.333(90)/5.2.2) The float-free recording medium shall be installed in a float-free capsule
which shall meet all of the following requirements:
1) be fitted with means to facilitate grappling and recovery;

– 14 – IEC 61996-1:2013 © IEC 2013
2) maintain the recorded data for a period of at least 6 months following termination of
recording;
3) be so constructed as to comply with the requirements specified in resolution IMO A.810(19)
and to minimize risk of damage during recovery operations;
4) be capable of transmitting an initial locating signal and further locating homing signal for at
least 48 hours over a period of not less than 7 days/168 hours; and
5) be capable of being accessed following an incident but secure against a physical or
el
...

IEC 61996-1 ®
Edition 2.1 2021-05
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR) –
Part 1: Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

Matériels et systèmes de navigation et de radiocommunication maritimes –
Enregistreur de données de navigation embarqué (VDR) –
Partie 1: Exigences de fonctionnement, méthodes d'essai et résultats d'essai
exigés
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IEC 61996-1 ®
Edition 2.1 2021-05
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR) –
Part 1: Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
Matériels et systèmes de navigation et de radiocommunication maritimes –
Enregistreur de données de navigation embarqué (VDR) –
Partie 1: Exigences de fonctionnement, méthodes d'essai et résultats d'essai
exigés
INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 47.020.70 ISBN 978-2-8322-5078-5

IEC 61996-1 ®
Edition 2.1 2021-05
CONSOLIDATED VERSION
REDLINE VERSION
VERSION REDLINE
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR) –
Part 1: Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

Matériels et systèmes de navigation et de radiocommunication maritimes –
Enregistreur de données de navigation embarqué (VDR) –
Partie 1: Exigences de fonctionnement, méthodes d'essai et résultats d'essai
exigés
– 2 – IEC 61996-1:2013+AMD1:2021 CSV
© IEC 2021
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 6
1 Scope . 8
2 Normative references . 8
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations . 9
3.1 Terms and definitions . 9
3.2 Abbreviations . 12
4 Performance requirements. 12
4.1 General . 12
4.2 Purpose . 12
4.3 Operational requirements . 12
4.3.1 Design and construction . 12
4.3.2 Maintenance of sequential records . 13
4.3.3 Co-relation in date and time . 13
4.3.4 Final recording medium . 13
4.3.5 Interfaces . 14
4.3.6 Performance test . 15
4.4 Data selection and security . 15
4.4.1 Selection of data items . 15
4.4.2 Configuration data . 15
4.4.3 Resistance to tampering . 16
4.4.4 Recording integrity . 16
4.5 Operation . 17
4.5.1 Recording and saving of data . 17
4.5.2 Power source . 17
4.5.3 Dedicated reserve power source . 17
4.5.4 Recording period and duration . 17
4.6 Data items to be recorded . 17
4.6.1 Date and time . 17
4.6.2 Ship’s position . 18
4.6.3 Speed . 18
4.6.4 Heading . 18
4.6.5 Bridge audio . 18
4.6.6 Communications audio . 18
4.6.7 Radar data – post-display selection . 18
4.6.8 ECDIS . 19
4.6.9 Echo sounder . 19
4.6.10 Main alarms . 19
4.6.11 Rudder order and response . 19
4.6.12 Engine and thruster order and response . 19
4.6.13 Hull openings (doors) status . 19
4.6.14 Watertight and fire door status . 19
4.6.15 Accelerations and hull stresses . 20
4.6.16 Wind speed and direction . 20
4.6.17 AIS . 20
4.6.18 Rolling motion. 20
4.6.19 Configuration data . 20

© IEC 2021
4.6.20 Electronic logbook . 20
5 Technical characteristics . 20
5.1 Co-relation in date and time . 20
5.2 Particular design requirements for the final recording medium . 21
5.2.1 Fixed protective capsule . 21
5.2.2 Float-free capsule . 21
5.2.3 Long-term recording medium . 21
5.3 Location beacons . 21
5.3.1 Fixed protective capsule . 21
5.3.2 Float-free capsule . 22
5.4 Survivability of recorded data . 22
5.4.1 Long-term retention . 22
5.4.2 Physical protection . 22
5.5 Information to be included in the manufacturer’s documentation . 23
5.5.1 Installation guidelines . 23
5.5.2 Operation and maintenance manual . 23
5.5.3 Information for use by an investigation authority . 24
5.6 Bridge audio specifications . 24
5.6.1 Input interface . 24
5.6.2 Reference signal. 24
5.6.3 Audio frequency response . 24
5.6.4 Quality index . 24
5.6.5 Signal noise level – Signal to noise and distortion . 25
5.6.6 Ability to handle complex signals . 25
5.6.7 Suppression of low frequency out band noise . 25
5.6.8 Microphones . 25
5.7 Communications audio . 26
5.7.1 Input interfaces . 26
5.7.2 Reference signal. 26
5.7.3 Audio frequency response . 26
5.7.4 Quality index . 26
5.7.5 Audio noise level – Signal to no signal . 26
5.7.6 Signal noise level – Signal to noise and distortion (SINAD) . 26
5.8 Screen image capture . 27
5.8.1 Input interface . 27
5.8.2 Image outputs . 27
5.9 Radar data – Post-display selection . 28
5.10 ECDIS data . 28
5.11 Configuration data . 28
5.11.1 Distribution of data in final recording media . 28
5.11.2 Protection . 28
5.11.3 Synchronisation of sensor and configuration data . 28
5.12 Operational performance test . 29
5.13 Bridge alert management system . 29
6 Methods of testing and required test results . 29
6.1 General . 29
6.1.1 Test setup . 29
6.1.2 Download and playback equipment . 30
6.1.3 Sequence of tests . 31

– 4 – IEC 61996-1:2013+AMD1:2021 CSV
© IEC 2021
6.1.4 Requirements to be checked by inspection only . 31
6.1.5 Environmental test conditions for normal operation . 31
6.1.6 Recording duration . 31
6.1.7 Reserve power source . 32
6.1.8 Recharging of reserve source of power . 32
6.1.9 Brief interruption of electrical power. 33
6.1.10 Recording integrity . 33
6.1.11 Maintenance of sequential records . 33
6.1.12 Co-relation in date and time . 33
6.1.13 Design and construction of the fixed protective capsule . 34
6.1.14 Design and construction of the float-free capsule . 36
6.1.15 Operational performance test. 37
6.1.16 Power source . 38
6.2 Data items to be recorded . 38
6.2.1 Date/time – Ship’s position – Speed – Heading . 38
6.2.2 Bridge audio . 38
6.2.3 Communications audio . 43
6.2.4 Radar data, post-display selection and ECDIS . 46
6.2.5 Other items . 54
6.2.6 Electronic logbook . 55
6.3 Interfaces . 55
Annex A (normative) IEC 61162 sentence formats . 56
Annex B (informative) Mandatory alarms . 57
Annex C (normative) Download and playback equipment for investigating authorities . 60
Annex D (informative) Requirement/test – Cross-references . 64
Annex E (normative) LAN image protocol . 66
Annex F (informative) Network for image transmission . 70
Annex G (normative) ECDIS display source information . 73
Bibliography . 78

Figure 1 – Insertion of Morse letter “V” in homing transmission . 22
Figure 2 – Test set-up block diagram . 48
Figure 3 – Comparison of images . 52
Figure F.1 – Network with a switch . 70
Figure F.2 – Network with direct connections . 71
Figure F.3 – Network for a ship with an extensive bridge . 72

Table 1 – Bridge audio, signal to no signal measurements . 40
Table 2 – Bridge audio, signal to noise and distortion (SINAD) measurements . 41
Table 3 – Complex signals . 42
Table 4 – Communications audio, signal to no-signal measurements . 45
Table 5 – Communications audio, signal to noise and distortion (SINAD)
measurements . 46
Table 6 – Intersection colours of test images 1 and 2 . 50
Table A.1 – References in this standard. 56
Table B.1 – Mandatory alarms on the bridge . 57

© IEC 2021
Table D.1 – Subject list and subclauses (1 of 2). 64
Table E.1 – Default values for transmitting equipment . 69
Table E.2 – Default values for receiving equipment . 69
Table G.1 – Required chart information. 74
Table G.2 – Additional chart information . 74

– 6 – IEC 61996-1:2013+AMD1:2021 CSV
© IEC 2021
INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
SHIPBORNE VOYAGE DATA RECORDER (VDR) –

Part 1: Performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
all national electrotechnical committees (IEC National Committees). The object of IEC is to promote
international co-operation on all questions concerning standardization in the electrical and electronic fields. To
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agreement between the two organizations.
2) The formal decisions or agreements of IEC on technical matters express, as nearly as possible, an international
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This consolidated version of the official IEC Standard and its amendment has been
prepared for user convenience.
IEC 61996-1 edition 2.1 contains the second edition (2013-05) [documents 80/690/FDIS
and 80/699/RVD], its corrigendum 1 (2014-02) and its amendment 1 (2021-05)
[documents 80/976/CDV and 80/993/RVC].
In this Redline version, a vertical line in the margin shows where the technical content
is modified by amendment 1. Additions are in green text, deletions are in strikethrough
red text. A separate Final version with all changes accepted is available in this
publication.
© IEC 2021
International Standard IEC 61996-1 has been prepared by IEC technical committee 80:
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems.
This second edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition.
a) The description of the protective capsule in 4.3.4 has been changed in line with the
requirements of the new IMO performance standards given in Resolution MSC.333(90)
which now require a final recording medium comprising three parts; fixed, float-free and
long-term.
b) A new requirement for a performance test has been added in 4.3.6.
c) Further data items to be recorded have been added to 4.6 for ECDIS, AIS, rolling motion
and electronic logbooks.
d) Clause 5 contains new technical requirements for configuration data, operational
performance test and bridge alert management system. In addition, further technical
requirements have been added to 5.6 for bridge audio and to 5.8 for radar and ECDIS
images.
e) References to “alarm” requirements in the previous edition have been substituted by
references to “cautions” in line with current IMO recommendations. The test methods in
Clause 6 have been updated to reflect the new requirements.
f) New Annexes E, F and G concerning protocols for interfacing images using a Local Area
Network have been added.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
A list of all parts of the IEC 61996 series, under the general title Maritime navigation and
radiocommunication equipment and systems – Shipborne voyage data recorder (VDR), can be
found on the IEC website.
NOTE All text of this standard, whose wording is identical to that of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90), is printed in
italics, and the Resolution and associated performance standard paragraph numbers are indicated in brackets.
The committee has decided that the contents of the base publication and its amendment will
remain unchanged until the stability date indicated on the IEC web site under
"http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data related to the specific publication. At this date, the
publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
– 8 – IEC 61996-1:2013+AMD1:2021 CSV
© IEC 2021
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
SHIPBORNE VOYAGE DATA RECORDER (VDR) –

Part 1: Performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

1 Scope
This part of IEC 61996 specifies the minimum performance requirements, technical
characteristics, methods of testing and required test results, for shipborne voyage data
recorder (VDR) installations as required by Chapter V of the International Convention for
Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), as amended. It takes account of IMO resolution A.694(17) and
is associated with IEC 60945. When a requirement in this standard is different from
IEC 60945, the requirement in this standard takes precedence.
This standard incorporates the applicable parts of the performance standards included in IMO
Resolution MSC.333(90).
NOTE All text of this standard, whose wording is identical to that of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90), is printed in
italics, and the Resolution and associated performance standard paragraph numbers are indicated in brackets.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 60068-2-27:2008, Environmental testing – Part 2-27: Tests – Test Ea and guidance:
Shock
IEC 60268-16, Sound system equipment – Part 16: Objective rating of speech intelligibility
by speech transmission index
IEC 60945, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – General
requirements – Methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61097-2, Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) – Part 2: COSPAS-
SARSAT EPIRB – Satellite emergency position indicating radio beacon operating on 406 MHz
– Operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61097-7:1996, Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) – Part 7:
Shipborne VHF radiotelephone transmitter and receiver – Operational and performance
requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61162 (all parts), Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems
– Digital interfaces
IEC 61162-450:2011, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Digital interfaces – Part 450: Multiple talkers and multiple listeners – Ethernet interconnection

© IEC 2021
IEC 61174, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS) – Operational and performance
requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61260:1995, Electroacoustics – Octave-band and fractional-octave-band filters
Amendment 1:2001
IEC 61672-1:2002, Electroacoustics – Sound level meters – Part 1: Specifications
IEC 62388:2007, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Shipborne radar – Performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IMO A.658(16), Use and fitting of retro-reflective materials on life-saving appliances
IMO A.662(16), Performance standards for float-free release and activation arrangements for
emergency radio equipment
IMO A.694(17), General requirements for shipborne radio equipment forming part of the
Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) and for electronic navigational aids
IMO A.810(19), Performance standards for float-free satellite emergency position-indicating
radio beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHz
IMO Resolution MSC.471(101), Performance standards for float-free emergency position-
indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHz
IMO A.1021(26), Code on alerts and indicators
IMO MSC.333(90):2012, Performance standards for shipborne Voyage Data Recorders
(VDRs)
EUROCAE ED-112:2003, Minimum operational performance specification (MOPS) for crash
protected airborne recorder systems
VESA:2007, Video electronics standards association – VESA and industry standards and
guidelines for computer display monitor timing (DMT), Version 1.0, Revision 0.11
SAE AS8045A:2011, Engineering Society for advancing mobility land sea air and space –
Minimum performance standard for underwater locating devices – Acoustic, self-powered
3 Terms, definitions and abbreviations
3.1 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1.1
alert
announcement of abnormal situations and conditions requiring attention. Alerts are divided in
four priorities: emergency alarms, alarms, warnings and cautions
Note 1 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).

– 10 – IEC 61996-1:2013+AMD1:2021 CSV
© IEC 2021
3.1.2
alarm
high priority of an alert. A condition requiring immediate attention and action, to maintain the
safe navigation and operation of the ship
Note 1 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).
3.1.3
bridge work station
position at which a person is expected to be when performing one of the normal bridge duties
at, for example, the following work stations:
• centre line conning;
• bridge wing(s);
• main radar;
• chart table;
• helmsman;
• communication
3.1.4
caution
lowest priority of an alert. A condition which does not warrant an alarm or warning condition,
but still requires attention and out of the ordinary consideration of the situation or of given
information
Note 1 to entry: A caution is indicated by a steady visual indication with a message of sufficient detail to enable
the bridge team to identify and address the caution condition. No acknowledgement is required and the caution
should be automatically removed after the condition is rectified.
Note 2 to entry: See (A.1021(26)/3).
3.1.5
combined EPIRB/VDR capsule
single unit which meets all the requirements of a satellite EPIRB (as required by the carriage
requirements of SOLAS IV) and all the requirements of a VDR (as required by the carriage
requirements of SOLAS V)
Note 1 to entry: Combined EPIRB/VDR capsule was defined by IMO COMSAR 8.
3.1.6
configuration data
describes the vessel's equipment, its installation on the vessel and its relation to the VDR.
The storage and playback software uses this data to store the data record and to convert the
data record into information that assists casualty investigation during playback
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.10).
3.1.7
data
any item of information received by the VDR for recording, including numerical values, text
and audio or radar signals and including all configuration data, except where specifically
stated or where the context dictates otherwise
3.1.8
dedicated reserve power source
a battery, with suitable automatic charging arrangements, dedicated solely to the VDR, of
sufficient capacity to operate it as required by 5.4.2
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.9).

© IEC 2021
3.1.9
final recording medium
the items of hardware on which the data is recorded such that access to any one of them
would enable the data to be recovered and played back by use of suitable equipment. The
combination of a fixed recording medium and float-free recording medium and long-term
recording medium, together, is recognized as the final recording medium
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.3).
3.1.10
fixed recording medium
part of the Final Recording Medium which is protected against fire, shock, penetration and a
prolonged period on the ocean floor. It is expected to be recovered from the deck of the
vessel that has sunk. It has a means of indicating location
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.4).
3.1.11
float-free recording medium
part of the Final Recording Medium which should float-free after a sinking. It has a means of
indicating location
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.5).
3.1.12
long-term recording medium
permanently installed part of the Final Recording Medium. It provides the longest record
duration and has a readily accessible interface for downloading the stored data
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.6).
3.1.13
playback equipment
any data medium with the playback software, the operational instructions and any special
parts required for connecting a commercial-off-the-shelf laptop computer to the VDR
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.7).
3.1.14
playback software
copy of the software program to provide the capability to download the stored data and play
back the information. The software should be compatible with an operating system available
with commercial-off-the-shelf laptop computers and where non-standard or proprietary formats
are used for storing the data in the VDR, the software should convert the stored data into
open industry standard formats
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.8).
3.1.15
playback system
system including the playback equipment that is capable of downloading and playing back the
recorded data
3.1.16
recorder
VDR
complete system, including any items required to interface with the sources of input signals,
their processing and encoding, the final recording medium, the playback equipment, the
power supply and dedicated reserve power source
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.1).

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3.1.17
resolution
smallest detectable increment between two values
3.1.18
signal source
any sensor or device external to the VDR, to which the VDR is connected and from which it
obtains signals and data to be recorded
Note 1 to entry: See (MSC.333(90)/4.2).
3.2 Abbreviations
EPFS Electronic position-fixing system
EUT Equipment under test
FFT Fast Fourier Transform
GMDSS Global maritime distress and safety system
IMO International Maritime Organization
INS Integrated navigation system
ITU International Telecommunication Union
LAN Local area network
ROV Remotely operated vehicle
SAR Search and rescue
SINAD Signal to noise and distortion
SPL Sound pressure level
STI Speech transmission index
STIPA Speech transmission index for public address systems
UTC Coordinated universal time
VHF Very high frequency
4 Performance requirements
4.1 General
Performance requirements described in this clause are specified by reference to the
numbered paragraphs of IMO Resolution MSC.333(90).
4.2 Purpose
(MSC.333(90)/1) The purpose of a Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) is to maintain a store, in a
secure and retrievable form, of information concerning the position, movement, physical
status, command and control of a vessel over the period leading up to, and following, an
incident having an impact thereon. Information contained in a VDR shall be made available to
both the Administration and the shipowner. This information is for use during any subsequent
safety investigation to identify the cause(s) of the incident.
4.3 Operational requirements
4.3.1 Design and construction
(See 6.1.5)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.4) The design and construction, which shall be in accordance with the
requirements of resolution A.694(17) and international standards acceptable to the

© IEC 2021
International Maritime Organization (IMO), shall take special account of the requirements for
data security and continuity of operation as detailed in 4.4 and 4.5.
4.3.2 Maintenance of sequential records
(See 6.1.11)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.1) The VDR shall continuously maintain sequential records of pre-selected
data items relating to the status and output of the ship's equipment, and command and control
of the ship, referred to in 4.6.
4.3.3 Co-relation in date and time
(See 6.1.12)
(MSC.333(90)/5.1.2, 5.5.1) To permit subsequent analysis of factors surrounding an
incident, the method of recording shall ensure that the various data items can be co-related in
date and time during playback on suitable equipment.
The recording method shall be such that the timing of all recorded data items can be derived
on playback with a resolution sufficient to reconstruct the history of an incident in detail
(see 4.6.1).
4.3.4 Final recording medium
4.3.4.1 Items of final recording medium
4.3.4.1.1 General
(MSC.333(90)/5.2) The final recording medium shall consist of the following items:
1) Fixed recording medium;
2) Float-free recording medium; and
3) Long-term recording medium.
4.3.4.1.2 Fixed recording medium
(See 6.1.13)
(MSC.333(90)/5.2.1) The fixed recording medium shall be installed in a fixed protective
capsule which shall meet all of the following requirements:
1) be capable of being accessed following an incident but secure against a physical or
electronically manipulated change or deletion of recorded data;
2) maintain the recorded data for a period of at least 2 years following termination of
recording;
3) maximize the probability of survival against fire, shock, penetration and deep-sea-
pressure and recovery of the final recorded data after any incident;
4) be of a highly visible colour and marked with retro-reflective materials; and
5) be fitted with an appropriate device to aid location under water.
4.3.4.1.3 Float-free recording medium
(See 6.1.14)
(MSC.333(90)/5.2.2) The float-free recording medium shall be installed in a float-free
capsule which shall meet all of the following requirements:
1) be fitted with mea
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