Choosing the Right AIS System

The first decision point in choosing the right AIS system is determining whether you need a Class A or Class B transceiver. 

Class A AIS is mandatory for all commercial vessels over a certain size and for all passenger ships irrespective of size. Class A devices broadcast more frequently and offer a higher power output, ensuring that the vessel’s signals are transmitted over larger distances. Class A transceivers provide dynamic data, such as position, course, and speed, at a rate that enables accurate tracking of the vessel’s movements.

Class B AIS is designed for smaller and non-commercial vessels, such as pleasure crafts and small fishing boats, Class B systems transmit data at regular intervals but less frequently than Class A systems. Although the coverage may be more limited, Class B is often adequate for vessels that operate in less congested waters and do not require the more robust capabilities of Class A AIS.

Compatibility with existing navigation and communication systems on your vessel is vital. Ensuring that your AIS can integrate seamlessly with equipment like radar, chart plotters, and electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS) will maximize its utility and enhance overall maritime situational awareness.

The marine environment can be harsh with extreme weather conditions and rough seas that can put a strain on electronic devices. It is necessary to select a system that is robust, weather-resistant, and known for a strong track record of reliability.

An AIS system should be user-friendly. A simple and intuitive interface allows for quick understanding and easy operation, which is especially important during stressful or emergencies at sea.

A good AIS system comes with strong after-sales support and warranty. This means access to technical assistance for installation or troubleshooting, as well as a warranty to cover any malfunctions or defects that may arise.

 

Purchasing the AIS Equipment

It is important to choose a vendor with a solid industry reputation, as they are more likely to provide reliable equipment and comprehensive customer support. Consider vendors who specialize in maritime navigation and communication systems, as they can often provide more detailed advice and a wider range of options.

Pay close attention to the technical details, including the transmission power, frequency, and data types supported. Ensure that the equipment has the necessary certification from recognized maritime authorities, which demonstrates that the system meets international standards for performance and safety.

Verify that the interfaces are suitable for integrating with your vessel’s existing communication and navigation systems. If you’re uncertain about compatibility, consult with the supplier or seek advice from a maritime electronics expert.

Your AIS system will comprise several components, and it is vital to ensure that you have all the necessary parts for a complete setup. These include:

AIS Transceiver. The core unit that transmits and receives AIS signals.

GPS Antenna. Required to provide accurate position data to the AIS transceiver.

VHF Antenna. Facilitates the transfer of AIS data over VHF radio frequencies.

Cabling and Connectors. Required for all electrical connections between the components.

Display system. Such as a chart plotter or dedicated AIS display, which visualizes the AIS data for easy reference.

Consider equipment that has the potential for future upgrades and expansions. As AIS technology evolves, it may offer new features that can enhance safety and efficiency. Choosing equipment with upgradeable firmware or software can be beneficial in the long run.

Evaluate the total cost of ownership, which includes purchase price, installation costs, operational reliability, and maintenance expenses. Investing in higher-quality equipment may lead to fewer issues and lower costs over time.

 

The Installation Process

Determine the most suitable locations for the AIS transceiver and antennas, taking into consideration the manufacturer’s recommendations, ease of accessibility for maintenance, and protection from environmental elements.

The transceiver should be placed in a location where it is dry and secure and where power supply and data cabling can be easily routed.

The VHF and GPS antennas must be mounted in positions that offer the clearest view of the sky and sea, free from obstructions that could impede signal transmission and reception.

GPS Antenna usually has a built-in magnet for mounting on a metal surface. It should be positioned where it will have an unobstructed 360-degree view of the sky.

VHF Antenna needs to be installed as high as possible to ensure maximum range. It must be kept at a distance from other antennas to avoid interference.

You should connect the AIS transceiver directly to the vessel’s power distribution system, ensuring it is adequately fused and grounded according to the electrical standards for marine equipment.

Power Source should be dedicated to the AIS system to prevent fluctuations caused by other equipment.

Proper grounding is important to prevent electrical interference and ensure the safety of the system.

AIS systems communicate with display systems and other navigational equipment through data connections. Ensure that the data cables are correctly routed and connected, following standards such as NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000, depending on the system’s requirements.

Make sure connections are firm and correctly matched, and the cabling is shielded where necessary.

Organize cables to prevent damage and electromagnetic interference from other devices.

After installation, the AIS system must be thoroughly tested to ensure it is operational and configured with the correct settings.

Initial testing includes powering up the system, checking for the proper functioning of LEDs, and verifying that the device is transmitting and receiving AIS data.

Configure the AIS with your vessel’s specific details, such as the Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number, vessel name, call sign, and dimensions.

Perform a final inspection to ensure that all components are securely mounted and protected from potential damage. Consult the installation manual to validate that all steps have been followed correctly.

It is prudent to document the installation process, noting the positions of all components, cabling routes, and any unique configurations. This can be invaluable for future maintenance, troubleshooting, or if the system needs to be reconfigured.

 

Getting Connected and Sharing Your Data

Your AIS device will need to be activated and configured with your vessel’s specific information before it can begin transmitting data effectively. This includes:

Every AIS unit must be programmed with a unique Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number, which serves as your vessel’s digital identification.

Accurately input your vessel’s name, type, call sign, dimensions, and location of the GPS antenna relative to the vessel’s structure.

Depending on whether you have a Class A or Class B system, certain default settings will differ, and they should be set following the requirements of your vessel’s operations.

It’s important to confirm that the data being sent is correct and being received without issues by others in the vicinity:

Modern AIS devices often have self-diagnostic features that can confirm if the system is functioning as designed.

Use an external AIS display, such as those on a nearby vessel or at a local marina, to confirm that your information is correctly appearing on their systems.

Regularly review and update the information transmitted by your AIS system:

Routinely verify that the vessel details, navigational status, and other dynamic information are accurate and updated as necessary.

Ensure your GPS reception is unobstructed and delivers precise data for accurate positioning.

Your AIS is part of a global network that enhances marine traffic safety:

Your AIS data can be accessed through various online platforms that aggregate AIS information, increasing visibility beyond local waters.

Register with MSI service providers to contribute to and access a wealth of navigational and safety information useful for your voyages.

To operate effectively within the global maritime community, your active participation in the AIS system must be consistent with international and local regulations:

Ensure that your AIS transmits data according to the standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and local maritime authorities.

Keep abreast of updates to AIS regulations that may affect the way you need to share data.

Continuous monitoring is required to validate ongoing performance and to keep abreast of technological advancements that may necessitate system updates.

Incorporate AIS system checks into routine equipment inspections on your vessel.

Be aware of firmware updates issued by the AIS equipment manufacturer that could improve system performance or provide new features.