Do VHF radios have AIS?

Do VHF radios have AIS?

Basic AIS functionality is built into some modern VHF radios, like this Icom M506. Safety, once again, is the main attraction. With AIS aboard, you’ll know which commercial vessels are around the next bend of the river.

What is AIS on a VHF radio?

The Automatic Identification System is a digital VHF radio-based transponder system that can prevent collisions, and can protect your boat from being run down by a huge, fast moving ship. It’s like digital radar with precise position information.

Can I use VHF antenna for AIS?

VHF antennas can work on AIS, yet the frequency of 162 MHz they will be operating at, is at the high end of the operable bandwidth of the antenna, where performance is not ideal. Many of the AIS transmit/receive units are also coming with splitters now, to utilize the same antenna as your VHF radio.

What VHF channels does AIS use?

AIS transponders and receivers use two VHF radio frequencies: 161.975 MHz (AIS1, or channel 87B) and 162.025 MHz (AIS2, or channel 88B).

What antenna do I need for AIS?

Antenna type: The type of VHF antenna you use with your AIS system can also have a big impact on AIS range. Most VHF antennas are optimally tuned around 155-156 MHz but AIS uses frequencies around 162 MHz. In some cases, a good VHF antenna might be substantially less tuned at even close adjacent frequencies.

What vessels must have AIS?

(1) A vessel of 300 gross tonnage or more, on an international voyage. (2) A vessel of 150 gross tonnage or more, when carrying more than 12 passengers on an international voyage.

What is the purpose of AIS?

The purpose of AIS is to help identify vessels, assist in target tracking, simplify information, exchange and provide additional information to boost situational awareness.

Why do boats have 2 antennas?

The advantages of the dual antenna Not only does the installation of a second antenna give better readability to the AIS signal, but it can also serve as an emergency antenna for VHF. Just allow enough length behind the unit to disconnect the antenna from the AIS and connect it to the VHF.

What is the difference between Class A and Class B AIS?

Per FCC Regulations (47 CFR 80.231), U.S. sold AIS Class B devices are not user configurable. AIS Class A are, but their static data is password protected. Class B owners, and users who have forgotten their password, should contact their AIS installer, manufacturer, or retailer for instructions on how to reprogram it.

Which ship must carry a Class A AIS?

Regulations for carriage of AIS The regulation requires AIS to be fitted aboard all ships of 300 gross tonnage and upwards engaged on international voyages, cargo ships of 500 gross tonnage and upwards not engaged on international voyages and all passenger ships irrespective of size.

What size VHF antenna do I need for my boat?

A 3- to 4-foot antenna that’s 3 dB is generally recommended for boats under 24 feet. Larger vessels can opt for 12- to 18-foot, 7 to 8 dB antennas. “As a general rule, antenna height should be less than half the length of the boat,” Catoe says.

Is AIS mandatory for fishing vessels?

If your fishing vessel is 15m or more in length, the law requires you to fit and maintain an AIS… What this means for owners – If you’re an owner of a vessel that requires AIS, you’re committing an offence if you don’t comply with the regulation and install AIS on your vessel.