Electronic logbook

An electronic logbook is a computer based software for recording (logging) states, events or simply conditions used for complex machines like aircraft, nuclear plants, particle accelerators, various areas on board ships replacing paper based logbooks, etc.

This version of a logbook was derived from the old-fashioned paper based logbooks which have been used in the maritime sector (see also logbook). Today a wide spectrum of different implementations of these electronic logbooks is available, even if most versions are based on the classical client-server approach. Here the electronic logbook serves a client which is in most cases a simple web browser.

Marine Electronic Logbooks

An electronic alternative to record key navigation, engine watch, port calls and other operational activities on board vessels of all sizes. Marine Electronic logbooks must meet the specific reporting requirements of IMO, SOLAS and flag states. Manually inserted information is normally combined with data recorded from the vessel's instruments such as time and position. Typical marine electronic logbooks are:

• Deck Logbook – Records navigational events related to the voyage and operations on board
• Dynamic Positioning Logbook – Manual recording of operations related to Dynamic Positioning (DP) operations
• Engine Logbook – Records engine events related to the engine and machinery operation
• Oil Record Book – Records events related to oil and dirty water as required by IMO's MARPOL convention
• Operational Log – Records events related to vessel operation, i.e. performance, cargo handling and maritime operations. The Operational Log will typically need some customisation to owner's requirement and trade.
• Radio Logbook – Records events relevant to radio traffic as required by IMO and the flag states
• vCatch Electronic Logbook – Complete electronic logbook system for fishing vessel and authorities.
• Dynamic Data Logger – Records all marine and vessel related activity.
• Elog Electronic Logbook - Enter logbook entries manually through a simple Web interface.

Other electronic notebooks

For laboratory notes, see Electronic lab notebook.

External links

• Free, personal pilot logbook software
• European electronic logbook for fisheries
• European electronic logbook research group
• Swift-E-Logbook JAA logbook software for pilots
• European electronic JAA logbook for pilots
• Free online nautical logbook
• NOAA fisheries logbook guide
• Electronic Diary (OpenSourceFreeware,all platforms)
• free web-based logbook for pilots
• OLFISH - A complete eLog Software Solution for Marine Environment