MF NAVTEX stations are expensive - in the vicinity of 200-300,000 dollars US.

This is mainly due to the large antenna systems required - which are expensive to purchase and erect - they also require lots of space.

NAVTEX operates on two channels in the MF band - 518 and 490 kHz.  Antenna size is a function of wavelength - the wavelength of the NAVTEX frequencies is around 600m.  Accordingly, antennas need to be large (tall) to provide an effective radiated signal. 

However, there is a much lower-cost alternative for those stations without the space or budget for an MF NAVTEX system.

There is a NAVTEX channel at the low end of the HF band - 4209.5 kHz.  This is intended to be used in tropical areas where high static levels render the MF channels ineffective.

Antennas for 4 MHz are significantly smaller, more efficient and cheaper than those for MF.  This efficiency also means that a lower power transmitter can be used. 

A 500w 4 MHz transmitter, combined with an efficient antenna, will provide equivalent coverage to an large high power MF system.

Because NAVTEX broadcasts are not transmitted continuously, the 4 MHz transmitter can be shared with other services, like radiotelephone.

We can design and install a cost effective 4 MHz NAVTEX service - either as part of an existing GMDSS station, or as a value-add to a new GMDSS network.

A typical HF NAVTEX system is less than a quarter the cost of an MF system.

Note that 4 MHz NAVTEX can only be used for national broadcasts at this time.

For more information, please contact us. 

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