Dual channel AIS monitors class A and B transmissions over standard VHF frequencies
03 March 2007 ~ Raymarine has launched its first dedicated AIS receiver. Raymarine’s AIS250 is a compact unit that provides Automatic Identification System (AIS) reception of data over VHF. This technology enables the voiceless exchange of navigation information between any vessel or shore station equipped with AIS receivers.
The Raymarine AIS250 is a dual channel receiver with a VHF splitter. This means it is capable of monitoring AIS Class A and Class B transmissions over standard VHF transmissions, and links to the existing VHF on board through the same antenna and cabling.
The benefit of AIS, which is obligatory for ships operating under IMO requirements, is that it provides constantly updated position information and identification of vessels in the vicinity. Using the Raymarine AIS250, this information is compatible with Raymarine’s E and C series, enabling AIS data to be fully shown on Raymarine multifunction displays and radar screens.
AIS has the great advantage of being able to 'see' around and over hills and other obstructions thereby eliminating the blind spots that sometimes appear on radar returns where a vessel can be 'hidden' behind a headland. Dynamic information such as speed, rate of turn, course and heading is updated every 2-10 seconds, while additional static information, such as vessel name, MMSI number, radio call sign, type of ship and cargo, and even destination is updated every 6 minutes. This allows smaller vessels the chance
to see and understand what a larger ship is doing, enabling them to alter their intended track well in advance so as to avoid potential conflict, especially in confined waters.
Raymarine’s AIS250 is quick and easy to install. The built-in multiplexer alleviates any connectivity issues by allowing the AIS250 to convert AIS information and other NMEA data at multiple baud rates, and the NMEA 0183 makes it compatible with all Raymarine equipment as well as other manufacturers’ AIS products. The AIS250 is compact, rugged and reliable and comes with Raymarine’s standard 2 year parts and labour warranty, and is backed up with the company’s extensive worldwide service and support network.
For further information contact Chloe Bartle UK Marketing Coordinator, +44 (0)23 9269 3611 Ext. 1395 or chloe.bartle@raymarine.com or Alice Driscoll at ADPR, Tel +44 (0)1935 826451 or Fax +44 (0)1935 826551 or by email at alice.driscoll@adpr.co.uk.
This text can be downloaded from www.adpr.co.uk.
March 2007 (RM403)
