MAGIC BOX FOR SHIPS

Evening Star, Issue 19774, 26 January 1928, Page 1

MAGIC BOX FOR SHIPS

POSITION OF OTHER VESSELS. A wireless compass and signal beacon which, it is claimed, will largely eliminate the dangers of log by indicating the bearings of ships ior a distance ol over 100 miles, has been perfected by Dr F. A. Kolster, chief research engineer to the Federal Telegraph Company ol California. _ . According to ‘ The Magazine,’ the instrument is being fitted to ocean liners as well as vessels on the Great Lakes, and may eventually be introduced to this country. The invention is contained in a little box measuring 24in by 15in by 12in. “Once It is switched on when log settles on the sea,” .says ‘The Nautical Magazine,’ “ it automatically sends out signals of one second’s duration every half-minute. “There is no misunderstanding as to the directions from which the signals emanate, for in connection with the new wireless compass a streak ol colored light flashing over the compass card on the bridge of a vessel within signalling distance gives the precise bearing, and, according to the brilliancy or dullness of the light received, the navigator will he able to estimate the distance, from the approaching or receding ship.” These new illuminated bearing indicators automatically light up on receiving a message from a vessel within ten miles. “The instrument is so accurate in this respect that it is guaranteed to he correct within one degree over a distance of fifty miles, and within two degrees over 100 miles; for the distances over ten miles head ’phones are provided.