The LRIT Data Centres (DC) collect, store and provide LRIT information (ship position reports) to users worldwide through an Internet based network.

The main function of the IDE is the routing of messages between DCs and therefore it can be seen as the communication hub of the LRIT network. The IDE is also responsible for broadcasting messages and monitoring the health of the LRIT network components.

The IDE routes the messages to the proper destination by using address information contained in the Data Distribution Plan (DDP), a document maintained by the Contracting Governments and made available by the DDP Server, hosted at IMO.

The IDE archives the header information of all exchanged messages for audit and statistical analysis purposes. The IDE does not read or store any LRIT information (for example, ship positions) contained within the messages.

The IDE has a web-based Administrative Interface accessible to the IDE operators, the LRIT Coordinator and DC operators to perform administrative tasks.

The connection between the IDE and other components is established and made secure.

System performance and availability

• The IDE should process and handle any input within 30 seconds of the receipt of the input and give the appropriate output.
• The IDE should be capable of receiving and processing at least 100 reports per second.
• The IDE should operate 24/7 with an availability of:
  • 99% over the year
  • 95% over any day

• The IDE should have:
  • seamless switch-over to local backup servers
  • close to seamless switch-over to remote disaster recovery site server