Computing Afloat

There's generally no problem with using a computer on a boat but there are a number of issues which it's worth considering, especially if you're buying something new.

Since there are a huge range of possibilities, some common combinations are outlined here which should give you and idea of the possibilities.

Computers and their peripherals

If you have a mains hook-up (and enough space) you'll have no problem running a standard desktop PC. When you're away from your hookup if you still want to use your PC you'll need an inverter and/or generator depending on how much you want to use it and the size of your battery bank. Like some other domestic appliances (e.g. microwaves, washing machines), computers can be somewhat picky about the quality of the mains supply. A true sine wave supply will work best for a desktop PC but generally a laptop (and some desktops) will be OK with a less smooth modified sine wave supply.

If you're using a normal desktop PC you really should consider getting at least a small uninterruptable power supply (UPS). Even one which just gives you a few minutes to shut the computer down cleanly will save much crying and nashing of teeth when the mains supply fails at the worst possible moment.

Space is obviously a major issue, especially on a narrow boat (narrowboat or narrow beam cruiser). The ever falling price of flat panel monitors mean they're worth looking at - you could get a much bigger screen than you could physically manage if it was a standard monitor.

Printers

You should be able to use any printer that you can attach to your computer however there are a few points to watch, especially with laser printers and paper. Many printers will start to have problems if the paper you are using has been kept in an even slightly damp environment. The actual extent of the problem will depend on the printer, paper and humidity but if you find the printer is having problems feeding, paper damp is a possible cause.

Laser printers can have particular requirements in terms of power, especially if you have a UPS.

Internet Access

There are many options for Internet access when on a boat. The main criteria will be how quickly you want things to download (bandwidth) and your cruising pattern. And especially how deep your pockets are!

For comparison as you go through the options below, a standard phone line and modem will allow you to download information at up to 56000 bits per second, expressed as 56 kbps. This works out to about 5600 bytes (characters) per second so this page should take less than three seconds to download (even including the logo).

Static boat

If your boat doesn't move (or at least not often) or you're sure you really won't want Internet access when you're away from your home mooring then you have most if not all the same options as you would in a house.

If your needs aren't great, a standard modem will probably be fine. This will give you a connection at up to 56 kbps and there are a huge number of ISPs around to cater for you. There are various charging tarrifs, from "pay as you go" arrangements which will typically charge 1p per minute that you are online to fixed fee services which allow you unlimited access at some or all times of the day. Consider what you think you want to do and read the small print carefully!

Those with greater need or less patience may be able to have ADSL installed. This will give a high speed (typcially at least 256 kbps download) permanent connection but depends on who near you are to your local BT exchange.

If you have cable TV, you might also be able to get Internet access over the same cable - call your cable company to see if this is possible.

Mobile access

There are three main options plus a fourth for the really keen.

If you have a mobile phone with a built-in data modem then you have the possibility of obtaining 9.6 kbps or even 14.4 kbps. You'll need a dial-up to an ISP (just as if you have a normal modem and phone line) and you'll be charged for the time you are online. This can get somewhat expensive, obviously depending on your tarrif.

For more bandwidth, Orange have their HSCD service which provides up to 28.8 kbps but in effect uses two mobile connections at once and thus two charges. This services is accessed in the form of a Nokia data card which plugs directly in to a laptop and you put your SIM card in, rather than using a normal phone.

The greatest bandwidth (33.6 kbps) using a mobile phone is currently provided by the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) which is available on most networks. This provides a permanent connection - you're not charged for the time you're connected to the Internet. Instead you're charged for the amount of data you transfer.

The final option (at the moment at least) is Internet access via. satellite. This can provide similar levels of bandwidth to ADSL but at potentially eye watering cost! There is also the problem that you'll need to set up the dish every time you wish to go online, making sure it's pointing in exactly the right direction.