Frequently Asked VMS Questions

Where can I purchase a Faria Beede VMS system?

We have agents around the world who are ready to help you once you made the decision to purchase a WD750 MTU system from Faria Beede. For an agent near you can find an agent on our Agents page or click HERE.

If you can not find an agent please call us, toll free 800.473.2742 and a customer service person will be glad to help.

Is there some place that I can get all of the forms I need for my VMS rebate?

Faria Beede Instruments, Inc. has put together a simple procedure for VMS purchase rebates. Your Faria Beede installer/agent has all of the information rebates offered by the local fisheries.

How do I contact Faria Beede if I am having a problem with my VMS unit?

If you are having problems with your Faria Beede VMS unit we recommend that you contact us as soon as possible. Follow this LINK. We have added the VMS products to our On-Line Repair program. Please tell us the cause of your concern and a brief description of the problem. Send us your unit, and once we receive it at the factory, a customer service person will contact you to discuss what we have determined as the problem.

Are there any other contacts that I can get help from?

Yes, Faria Beede has programmed into your address book on the VTERM the e-mail addresses of some of the people at NOAA that will be able to help you. Also, you can contact the OLE help desk toll free at 1.888.219.9228, or e-mail at .

What is Dual Band, and why is it better than Single Band?

The Faria Beede WD750 VMS DB is the only type certified dual-band system that uses an extensive network of Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites as well as GSM cellular networks. This ensures that your connections are not only reliable, but affordable, and that you meet NMFS reporting requirements. Learn More

How do I know if I have any new e-mails?

A window will appear in the center of the VTERM and an audible tone will sound to let you know that you have new mail.

Can I send and receive attachments?

No, attachments will be filtered out of the e-mail in order to protect the integrity of the system.

Can I get on the internet using the VTERM?

No, you cannot use this device to "surf" the web.

How much time does it take to send and/or receive a message?

The size of the message and the location of your vessel will determine the amount of time it takes to deliver either an incoming or outgoing message. If your vessel is within GSM (cellular) coverage it will take less than a minute to send and receive email. If you are outside GSM but in satellite range (Iridium) it will take less than 5 minutes.

How long can my e-mails be?

The Faria Beede VMS MTU can handle any message of reasonable length, typically below 8 kbs.

Why does my User Interface say "COMM"?

This is to let you know that your VMS unit is functioning properly. The message is to let you know that you have communication through either your cellular antenna, your Iridium satellite antenna, or both and your GPS is functioning.

Why does my User Interface say "NO COMM"?

If this message appears it means that you have lost either your GSM/SAT signal or your GPS signal. Recheck all of your connections. If this does not solve the problem, let us know there is a problem, use this LINK and fill out the Contact Us form and tell us about the problem, or call Faria Beede VMS at 800.473.2742.

Why does my VTERM screen go blank?

The Faria® VTERM is set up to go into "sleep" mode after a period of time. Simply touch the screen and the display will turn on. This can be adjusted in the control panel section on your Faria® VTERM or refer to your operators manual for more instructions.

What does my monthly fee cover?

The monthly service fee is determined by the plan that you choose during registration. The fee covers the combination of air time either from GSM (cellular) or satellite (Iridium®) for position reporting, e-mail service and catch reporting forms.

How will I be billed for the monthly service?

The credit card you use to register your VMS unit will be billed monthly and a statement will be e-mailed to you each month. To see what plans are available contact your local Dealer/Agent. They will ask you some questions about where you fish and discuss your needs. They will use this information to customize your plan.

Can I increase my monthly service plan?

Yes, you can make changes to your monthly service plan. You must make the change prior to 15th day of the month. The new plan will be in effect on the first day of the next month.