Weather FAX
Weather faxes are high frequency receivers that provide printed weather maps as published by NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association). These maps contain a wealth of information assisting crews in assessing dangerous weather patterns. There are several alternative offerings to Weather Fax that make use of a sub carrier frequency on the Inmarsat system. In this system weather maps can be downloaded for a subscription fee on demand.
Other possibilities include downloading weather maps from the Internet if the vessel is equipped with a high-speed data connection through the Inmarsat. Some telex services such as WLO Radio will broadcast weather maps on demand but there is a charge involved for this service, however, the NOAA broadcasts are always free of charge.