Where can I purchase a Faria WatchDog® VMS system?
You can find a local dealer near you here. If you need more information you can contact us at:
Call Us Toll Free - 1.877.888.5569
860.848.9271 ext. 1218
e-mail - information@fariawatchdog.com
Is there some place that I can get all of the forms I need for my Southeast region VMS rebate?
Faria WatchDog Inc. has put together a simple procedure for VMS purchase rebates for the Southeast region. Many of the required forms can be filled out on-line. Your Faria WatchDog™ Dealer has all of the information you need to receive this rebate.
We have also put together a VMS Rebate Information Packet which has all of the forms you need to complete your Southeast region rebate. You can find this packet here.
How do I contact Faria if I am having a problem with my VMS unit?
You can contact us here , send us an e-mail or you can call us at 1.877.888.5569.
Are there any other contacts that I can get help from?
Yes, Faria has programmed into your address book the e-mail addresses of some of the people at NOAA that will be able to help you. Also, you can contact the OLE help desk toll free at 1.888.219.9228, or e-mail at ole.helpdesk@noaa.gov.
What is Dual Band, and why is it better than Single Band?
The Faria WatchDog™ 750VMS DB is the only type certified dual-band system that uses an extensive network of low-Earth orbit satellites as well as GSM cellular networks. This ensures that your connections are not only reliable, but affordable, and that you meet NMFS reporting requirements.
How do I know if I have any new e-mails?
A window will appear in the center of the Faria VTERM™ and an audible tone will sound to let you know that you have new mail.
Can I send and receive attachments?
No, attachments will be filtered out of the e-mail in order to protect the integrity of the system.
Can I get on the internet using the Faria VTERM™?
No, you cannot use this device to "surf" the web.
How much time does it take to send and/or receive a message?
The size of the message and the location of your vessel will determine the amount of time it takes to deliver either an incoming or outgoing message. If your vessel is within GSM (cellular) coverage it will take less than a minute to send and receive email. If you are outside GSM but in satellite range (Iridium) it will take less than 5 minutes.
How long can my e-mails be?
The Faria WatchDog® VMS will handle any message of reasonable length, typically below 8 kbs.
Why does my 2" interface say "COMM"?
This is to let you know that your VMS unit is functioning properly. The message is to let you know that you have communication through either your cellular antenna, your Iridium satellite antenna, or both and your GPS is functioning.
Why does my 2" interface say "NO Comm"?
If this message appears it means that you have lost either your GSM/SAT signal or your GPS signal. Recheck all of your connections. If this does not solve the problem, contact Faria WatchDog® VMS at 1-877-888-5569.
Why does my Faria VTERM™ screen go blank?
The Faria VTERM™ is set up to go into "sleep" mode after a period of time. Simply touch the screen and the display will turn on. This can be adjusted in the control panel section on your Faria VTERM™ or refer to your operators manual for more instructions.
What does my monthly fee cover?
The monthly service fee is determined by the plan that you choose during registration. The fee covers the combination of air time either from GSM (Cingular®, now AT&T ) or satellite (Iridium®) for position reporting, e-mail service and catch reporting forms.
How will I be billed for the monthly service?
The credit card you use to register your VMS unit will be billed monthly and a statement will be e-mailed to you each month. To see what plans are available go here.
Can I increase my monthly service plan?
Yes, you can make changes to your monthly service plan. You must make the change prior to 15th day of the month. The new plan will be in effect on the first day of the next month.
