The FinScan product range is market leading technology and such there are always many questions to ask when considering it's suitability for your particular vessel and installation. With that in mind we have put together a list of frequently asked questions that may help with your deliberations, but always remember the team at FinScan are only a telepone call or email from answering your questions direct.
FAQ:
Q. How does the scanner work when your fingers are wet or salty?
A. Having wet and salty fingers will not damage the unit, however, excessively wet salty fingers will most likely leave salt on the sensor area when the water evaporates. A wipe with a tissue occasionally if a build up of salt is observed will be ok. With respect to operation, an excessively dripping wet finger will have a higher rejection rate. Damp fingers are ok. Simply flicking of excess from the finger prior to use or a quick wipe on shirt or shorts to remove excess water and all will work normally.
Q. Can the owners program others to accept their friends fingerprints?
A. Yes, the Bio eStart can store up to 1000 fingerprints for each engine. This means that the owner can program multipe hands and fingers, partners, regular crew etc. The programmed finger will allow the ignition to be enabled. Once the engines are running, anyone who is present can shutdown the engines via the stop button.
Q. I hire out my vessel so will I need to reprogram the Bio eStart each time?
A. No, the Bio eStart is supplied with two remotes. A 'Master remote' allows new operator fingers to be added and a 'Valet remote' that does not allow programming but will bypass the fingerprint requirement. Your customers can be provided with the 'Valet remote' that allows full control but not allow programming. The same goes when it comes time to sell your vessel as the 'Valet remote' is used by the sales agent and their team.
Q. Is this another thing to go wrong electrically?
A. The Bio eStart needs to be as reliable as the engines to which it is connected. Extensive R&D, modification of manufacturing processes and exhaustive through life testing been conducted to ensuring absolute reliability. The units are manufactured to the highest standards, with all electronics encased in an RTV catalyst based silicon, that is poured after the electronics are commissioned. This means no moisture from air or water can enter the electronics to affect the device over time. It is a sealed unit. Remember most boats are crammed full of electronic components such as engine management systems, joystick controls, helm control units, the list just goes on. The reality is that these components are designed for the environment in which they work and modern electronic equipment is much more reliable than it's predecessors.
Q.Where is FinScan located?
A. FinScan is an Australian company who are part of AIMEX - Australian International Marine Export group, located in Sydney Australia.
Q. What happens if I have a problem with my FinScan unit?
A. In the unlikely event of a problem you have several options.
Firstly, FinScan has a nation wide distribution and support network, and international distributors who are there to support you. FinScan are also committed to holding stock within Australia so replacement parts are never far away.
Secondly, the FinScan unit is designed as a unit of two sealed parts; the Head unit and the Engine start controller. It is 'plug and play' which enables either part to be unplugged and replaced with minimal fuss. So say the head unit is damaged, you could just order a new one and once it arrives simply unplug the damaged unit and remove, plug the new one in and refit. No special tooling, no experience needed, no fuss.
