For more than 25 years, Italy’s Videoworks has been a go-to company for yacht owners worldwide who want the latest onboard technology. The firm is known for installing audiovisual setups that rival those inside mansions ashore, as well as satellite communications, cybersecurity systems and, most recently, home automation packages that incorporate artificial intelligence. The custom interfaces that Videoworks offers let yacht guests control everything from streaming movies to lights and air conditioning aboard yachts, while the company’s Active Noise Control Systems help keep the din down wherever yacht owners want peace and quiet.

Now, the company is offering Health Remote Monitoring, an area of medicine that’s been around for decades but that really started to accelerate along with the internet’s evolution in the 1990s. During the pandemic the past few years, telemedicine systems got another technological boost, when all kinds of medical experts, including doctors and veterinarians, began offering patient consultations via video calls and online data transfers.

Today, numerous types of telemedicine systems are available, many of them in collaboration with service centers where on-call medical professionals are at the ready for incoming information and requests for help. Videoworks says it’s taking a slightly different approach, though, with more of a focus on patient privacy—what with overall privacy being a key concern aboard most superyachts worldwide.

“What makes this service truly original is the direct connection with the patient’s personal physician, rather than with a service center, as is commonly the case with telemedicine, in which the patient’s data is analyzed by whichever doctor is on duty,” the company said when announcing the service. “This preserves the patient’s privacy and, above all, ensures direct communication with his or her own doctor, who is familiar with the patient’s pathologies and state of health.”

Experts in the telemedicine field say one of the top trends to watch is the increasing use of AI in remote-monitoring systems, for everything from diagnosis and diagnostics to patient follow-up. Expectations also include an increased use of wearables in these systems, with watches and other technology now able to track people’s heart rates, blood pressure and other important vital signs.

All of these system integrations happening aboard a yacht, while still maintaining personal privacy for owners and guests, will require expertise in cybersecurity protocols, satellite communications and more. That’s what makes Videoworks so well positioned to become a major player in the telemedicine marketplace on the world’s oceans.

In September at the Monaco Yacht Show, Videoworks gave showgoers a glimpse of the future, allowing them to test the Health Remote Monitoring system. Visitors to the company’s booth could measure their blood oxygen level and heart rate using a classic pulse oximeter, reproducing what the system does on board a yacht.  

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The software-defined wide-area network from Videoworks is a way of combining various technologies to link yachts to the internet with a signal similar to the one at home or in an office. SD-WAN uses several third-party-built connections—including 4G/5G cellular, Starlink or OneWeb, VSAT-GEO and shore-based Wi-Fi—to yield fast, stable, reliable and cost-effective data transmissions.

SD-WAN uses two software-based virtual machines (one is yacht-based; the other is cloud-based) to create a two-way communications tunnel with the internet. SD-WAN also can bond discrete protocols to yield a georeferenced connection with increased bandwidth and stability.

Alessio Musetti, Videoworks’ yachting sales manager, says the company faced numerous challenges while creating SD-WAN. These include combining different connectivity technologies that have different bandwidths in different regions, optimizing cloud services, guaranteeing 24/7/365 service and creating an at-home-like internet experience aboard yachts at sea.

While these hurdles were high, Musetti says Videoworks cleared them by creating a platform that harnesses the best connectivity technologies afloat, including virtual machines, the Linux OS and various web interfaces.

Behind the Connection

SD-WAN can channel-bond discrete communicators’ protocols with similar latencies (such as 5G and Starlink) by splitting internet packages across all connections and then reaggregating them on the opposite end. On the back end, Videoworks maintains a network-operations center that allows it to monitor and improve the network. The SD-WAN is flexible, and, because it’s software, it’s easily upgradable by Videoworks.

Take the next step: videoworksgroup.com

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Videoworks is revealing details about how it outfitted the Sanlorenzo SP110 Almax for communications, entertainment and home automation.

The project focused around a single, centralized, 30-unit rack for all AV and IT systems, eliminating the need for smaller units throughout the yacht. Videoworks says this setup took up 40 percent less space and generates 30 percent less heat, along with reducing cable needs by 20 percent.

Videoworks also installed its MyInfo 3.0 app to manage the multimedia and infotainment channels on the yacht’s smart TVs. The interface for controlling individual areas from iOS or Android devices can be downloaded by scanning the QR code in each room.

Almax also has a 5G modem and four active SIMs, and is LEO-satellite-system-ready, which means antennas can be connected at any time to receive Starlink or OneWeb satellite connectivity services. The Wi-Fi system is equipped with Kerio technology for managing internet connections and VLANs, and for firewall, antivirus and web-filter functions.

Outside, there are four pop-up speakers integrated into the deckhouse design. A karaoke system is in the lounge, and a presentation system is in the main salon, lounge and cockpit. Lights, blinds and climate control are all integrated as well.

What if something breaks? Videoworks includes a remote assistance server in all its systems, so the company’s help desk can intervene remotely 24/7/365.

Take the next step: click over to videoworksgroup.com

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Videoworks has released details about systems that it installed aboard the 203-foot CRN Rio, including audiovisual equipment, communications systems and home-automation systems.

For internet connectivity, Riohas a 5G modem with four active SIM cards and a LEO satellite-ready system. Topology flat antennas can be added for satellite connectivity via Starlink or the forthcoming system called OneWeb.

The network infrastructure is based on Cisco Catalyst products, with guest control via iPad or Android tablets that use an app. Guests also can request help from the crew with this system by pressing radio buttons in their staterooms.

For audio needs, there’s a Sonos system that’s compatible with Airplay2 technology. It has a connection interface for a DJ console and plugs for removable speakers. When it’s movie time, the pool area on the wheelhouse deck has an outdoor cinema with a video projector and dedicated audio system.

Videoworks worked with Lutron to create the controls for lighting and window blinds.

What if the yacht owner or crew need help at sea? Videoworks installs a remote-assistance server on board, so its help desk can intervene remotely, 24/7.

Where to learn more: go to videoworksgroup.com

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Videoworks has released details about multiple systems installations that it performed aboard the 213-foot ISA Classic Resilience.

For starters, Sonance speakers are used for indoor and outdoor audio systems. Every area of the yacht has a standalone Sonos player for music that loops into Airplay 2, so guests can customize their music selections.

On the upper deck, the exterior includes a 4K video projection system that is concealed in the ceiling when not in use. An iPad controls it, while the integrated audiovisual system is managed through a Crestron central processing unit.

The IT infrastructure is built with Cisco hardware, and internet connectivity is via a Peplink modem that interfaces with the yacht’s VSAT system—which means the yacht can have connectivity via cellular networks along the coast and via VSAT at sea. Network security and profiling are via a Kerio setup that includes a firewall, antivirus protection and filters. Satellite reception includes a SeaTel ku-band universal antenna.

There’s also a home automation system on board, with intelligent control of lights, blinds and air conditioning. The system is based on Lutron hardware, and users interface with it via an iPad.

What about closed-circuit television? Yes, Resilience has that, too, in a system built with Panasonic products. The network includes five high-resolution cameras.

Where to learn more: go to videoworksgroup.com

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Videoworks is involved in a project that will let people’s emotions dictate the lighting and music aboard yachts.

The Miracle-MOHMI project, co-funded by the Marche Region ERDF program, is intended to create a system equipped with “emotional intelligence.” That means the tech will monitor a person’s emotions and then use a home automation system to adapt the living environment and improve comfort.

Videoworks made a prototype that’s testing the interface model aboard yachts and that could also be used in hotels and homes.

According to the company, the system’s computer vision and machine-learning algorithms, in combination with a network of cameras and sensors, recognize emotions through clues such as body posture and the person’s activity. The system then modifies things like lights and music to increase the person’s well-being.

“Thanks to the collaboration with UNIVPM, the Polytechnic University of the Marche Region, the company has had access to a series of resources, knowledge and advanced technologies, with the aim of creating a prototype that, in the future, can become an adapted and enriched product to meet different needs,” Maurizio Minossi, chief technology officer of Videoworks, stated in a press release.

Follow news about this system on social media: Use the hashtag #miraclemohmi to find the latest updates.

Take the next step: go to videoworksgroup.com

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In March 2020, the world learned how to become (Microsoft) Teams players and Zoom stars. Videoconferencing might have seemed cutting-edge during the pandemic’s opening salvo, but for Videoworks SpA, work with remote meetings began in 1981. That’s when the Ancona, Italy-based audio-video and IT-systems integrator for mega-yachts began innovating land-based virtual meeting rooms that leveraged professional video and production systems.

Today, Videoworks remains ahead of the curve on other modern technologies that make life on board more colorful, comfortable, information-rich and quieter. And that’s to say nothing of Videoworks’ forays into lighting controls, intelligent glass and secure, professional-grade networking.

Many of today’s yacht owners think nothing of stepping aboard to find their favorite music playing, optimal temperatures set, and preferred lighting choices activated. And they expect access to voice calls and high-speed data via cellular- and satellite-communications systems, plus navigational information at their fingertips.

Acquiring these individual pieces of equipment is straightforward; getting them all to play nicely is complex.

While other companies focus on integrating third-party technologies aboard high-end yachts, few accomplish the goal with the same level of innovation across hardware and software as Videoworks.

“Videoworks is a pure system integrator,” says Maurizio Minossi, Videoworks’ CEO and chief technology officer, adding that the company is actively engaged in projects from about 100 to 400 feet length overall across five countries. “We pick products from the best manufacturers to build a specific marine experience, and we work on engineering and software solutions to create a specific system with off-the-shelf products.”

In some cases, Videoworks also collaborates with third-party manufacturers to innovate its own hardware. Examples include the boards for digital signal processing that the Leaff Engineering Co. developed to allow Videoworks’ acoustic installations to sound better with SSP6 Multiducer “hull speakers” from Revolution Acoustics, as well as active noise control, which Videoworks developed with the University of Ancona to use miniaturized speakers and microphones to cancel out ambient noise in staterooms.

“I’d say 60 percent of the time, the innovation is driven by listening to our clients and accepting their challenges,” Minossi says, “while 40 percent involves scouting the market.”

Videoworks also builds proprietary software that lets its technicians create vesselwide synergy among networked systems and devices. The effort often involves working with Windows, iOS, Android, Simpl+ and HTML5 operating systems and architecture.

“Videoworks aims to have full control of software development,” Minossi says. “The core software platforms that are developed by our in-house software company, ItWorks, are the base for almost all the projects. On top of these platforms, according to a project’s size and budget, we create bespoke layers.”

Hardware and software let Videoworks give owners next-level vessel control from a smartphone, tablet or smart TV, using the company’s MyInfo, MyConcierge and MyCrew apps. But the company’s hardest missions, Minossi says, often involve eyes and ears, not screwdrivers or code.

“I think the harder job is to understand the real needs of the client and real soul of the ship, and to create a solution within the project’s budget and in the time and physical spaces allowed by the builder,” he says.

Most Videoworks customers want to build secure, professional-grade networks; high-quality audio and audiovisual installations; and the best-quality onboard lighting. Smaller installations typically involve 5G cellular connections, robust wireless local area networks (think Wi-Fi), TVs, consumer-grade audiovisual libraries and services, and smart-device control over systems and equipment. Projects of medium size typically step up to a VSAT satellite-communications system, multiple 5G cellular connections, Wi-Fi, TVs, consumer- or professional-grade audiovisual libraries and services, and smart-device control. The biggest projects have these same elements, plus what the company calls “Pentagon-grade” IT structures.

“I’d say the biggest effort is on achieving high-speed connectivity, or speed-for-the-money connections,” Minossi says. “We think every implementation must be security-validated at the highest level, otherwise it will not be included in a Videoworks solution.”

For example, Videoworks regularly specs Kerio Control Wi-Fi routers, which have built-in firewalls, content filtering, virtual private networks and a service to protect against intrusion. That service monitors network traffic for threats and provides antivirus protection.

“The IT part of a superyacht project is becoming more important each year,” Minossi says, explaining that Videoworks tries to be involved with all phases of a new build or refit, from project engineering to maintenance and airtime service. Sometimes, this effort means becoming involved with a project before any contracts are signed; while at other times, Videoworks gets involved 24 to 30 months before completion, when big-picture decisions have already been made.

Project complexity, Minossi says, typically arises from one of three common scenarios when working with yachts. “On the largest, 100-meter-plus yachts with highest-level specs, there’s a lot of pressure from the owner’s team and the shipyard on top quality,” he says. Videoworks is also regularly asked to fit a lot of equipment aboard smaller yachts, or receives owner requests to make everything “10 times simpler than usual.”

Videoworks installations often use rack-mounted equipment, which the company assembles. It then craftily hides the equipment in unobtrusive onboard spots—say, inside furniture—and works with a yacht’s available space.

Minossi says this part of the job is poised to get easier. “In five years, hardware on board will be drastically reduced in terms of space and weight,” he says, adding that he also suspects all data will funnel on, off and across yachts via high-speed connections.

So, if you’re interested in creating a high level of integration among networked devices and systems with next-level amenities and technologies, consider Videoworks’ expertise. Or if you’re ready to fast-track the conversation, request a videoconference. You may still be a relatively new Teams player or a still-rising Zoom star, but Videoworks has been an expert for years. 

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Music hull is a technology developed by the Ferretti Group and Videoworks for the Pershing 8X to play music—above deck and below the waterline. Unlike regular stereos that use magnet-driven speaker cones, Music Hull uses six “shakers,” which vibrate and are fitted to the inside surface of the yacht’s carbon-fiber hull. The technology “transforms a part of the hull into a massive high-fidelity, planar, radiating speaker using bending-wave-acoustics physics,” says Randy Coleman, Ferretti Group’s vice president of North American sales. Coleman adds that the system delivers even sound pressure and frequency response, sans through-hull apertures.

According to Maurizio Minossi, Videoworks’ chief technical officer, the project’s highest hurdle involved “finding the right positions on the hull [for the shakers] and the right power for amplifiers.”

How It Works

Other core technologies include digital-signal processing and a calibration algorithm in the Videoworks-built infotainment system. The algorithm drives the shakers, as well as a hull-mounted hydrophone, enabling the system to calibrate—automatically, in real time—its audio source and volume levels.

Users can stream music off their mobile devices, which can be wirelessly networked to the system.

Take the next step: pershing-yacht.com

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Videoworks is promoting Cisco ASA 5506 network security, which offers superyachts multiple defenses against an IT attack in one device.

The system provides real-time identification and prevention of viruses and other threats, and allows for system management before, during and after security violations. It allows control over all activities on the network and the ability to find information about users, apps, devices, threats, files and more.

An automated feature assesses the potential impact of threats and generates a list of priorities that require action.

What else can Videoworks do? The company can integrate all onboard systems through Crestron, iPads, iPhones and other smartphones.

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