Article by Pat Schrawder
Every now and then a product comes along that makes you go “Hey, that’s pretty clever. I haven’t seen that before.” And so it is with this next item called the “Autotether”. Simply put, it is a man overboard wireless motor shut off.
If you can imagine the worst of all incidents, which happen all too often on a boat, especially when you are alone and you slip or reach over for something, a wave hits and you lose your balance falling overboard. There you are swimming and trying to get back to the boat but its engines are running and it’s still moving so you can’t catch up. What do you do? Well, the Autotether might just save the day.
Consisting of two pieces- the main unit and the remote that are both operated by AAA batteries, the Autotether is a wireless lanyard that connects directly to the engine kill switch. There are up to 3 extra remote “passenger” keys and one “operator” key available. You wear these on your person. If the operator falls overboard, the motor will shut off and an alarm will sound. If a passenger falls overboard, just the alarm will sound.
This is a pretty simple system actually. Run by batteries, when turned on the two units “talk” to each other by radio frequency. If one of the keys (sensors) falls in the water, that radio signal is interrupted and that triggers the alarm and/or kill switch.
Installation couldn’t be easier. Mount the main unit (receiver) to the boat near the ignition by simply peeling the adhesive strips and then attach the clip to the kill switch. Put the key (sensor) in your pocket and turn on the main unit. The batteries are estimated to last for 100 hours. This unit normally retails for around $235.00.
The manufacturer, aptly named “Autotether, Inc.”, also makes a similar unit called “The Screamer”. It is a wireless alarm system that is based on the same principle as the Autotether. Consisting of a main unit and up to 4 sensors, when the system is turned on, an alarm squeals if any of the remote sensors goes under water or strays more than 100 feet from the main unit. This can certainly be used on your boat, but I imagine all sorts of other uses. For moms and dads looking after small children at home where there is a pool or nearby stream, while shopping in the supermarket or any store, even on your dog. What if someone tries to kidnap your child or pet? You will know within seconds that something is awry.
I say, “Hats off” to the Autotether folks for coming up with a really good idea.
Pat and her husband, Larry are owners of L&L Marine Electronics in West Ocean City, MD.
