NAVTEX (navigational telex) is an automated, direct-printing telex capable of receiving navigational warnings and weather information. Though NAVTEX is used worldwide, messages are emitted and printed in English.
NAVTEX is used to diffuse navigational and meteorological forecasts and warnings, as well as other urgent information to shipping. It was designed to offer a simple, inexpensive method of distributing maritime safety information (MSI).
NAVTEX is composed of an antenna, a receiver and a display/printer unit. International NAVTEX transmissions use the single frequency of 518 kHz worldwide. Three levels of messages are sent via NAVTEX vital, important and routine. New versions are able to display messages on-screen and print them if necessary.
Users might consider a NAVTEX fitted with a display screen rather than a printer-only model. SOLAS convention ships (cargo ships of 300 grt and over and passenger ships making international voyages) navigating in all zones must carry a NAVTEX receiver.
