The UKHO's ENC service is being improved to allow users to update their charts with the latest data remotely. This means they will have access to the latest chart information over the internet at any time and will no longer need to wait for a CD-ROM update.

Alongside this, the UKHO will be demonstrating a new web service that gives shore based personnel operating within the Merchant Marine and defence environments the ability to view the latest charts online.

Improvements to the UKHO's digital licensing and ordering services mean their worldwide network of some 140 distributors can now receive a permit for ENCs in less than ten minutes. The improved service makes it easier for customers to order new and renewed licenses for ENC and ECDIS services through a single interface and have them filed automatically.

The catalogue, which is available to distributors and customers as a free download at http://www.ukho.gov.uk/amd/admirDigCat.asp, provides a comprehensive reference in graphical and textual form of the complete range of Admiralty products and services. It includes comprehensive search functionality by product type, scale or user defined route, together with weekly updates available online.

UKHO product manager Hugh Phillips said, 'This latest development delivers fast permit processing and hassle free product ordering for our flagship ENC and ECDIS services. We can now offer a catalogue based selection service linked to online ordering, licensing and permit production, enabling fast, effective and flexible delivery of the very latest ENC data.'

Further enhancements will follow in November.

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