The Navtex service operates through a series of transmitting stations at a frequency of 518 and 490 kHz, the device receives the signal and can show the received data on a display or print it directly.
Installation requires the placement of a small antenna and a central unit with a printer or display.
The service is free and the stations that cover the Italian seas from 01/01/2012 are all managed by the Harbour Offices.
Some say there have been users who have complained about an inadequate service prior to this date, when the old stations were operated by Telecom. In any case, today the Harbour Master's Offices have taken over the management completely by setting up 3 new stations (La Maddalena, Mondolfo and Sellia Marina), which in addition to maintaining efficient service on the 518 KHz, have also activated the service on the 490 KHz.