Digital Yacht has unveiled a fresh lineup of Class B+ AIS transponders. This new standard, Class B+, employs SOTDMA format transmissions that boast a 5W power output (2.5 times more potent than a typical Class B), a secured time slot for transmission in congested traffic zones, and quicker update rates contingent on the vessel's speed. It is perfect for oceanic sailors seeking top-notch performance and satellite tracking applications that are future-proof. Additionally, it suits fast powerboats and smaller non-mandated commercial vessels. Furthermore, it remains compatible with current Class B and Class A systems.
The patented ZeroLoss VHF-AIS antenna splitter integrated within the AIT5000 allows for the sharing of the main VHF antenna with the VHF, AIS, and FM radio. Additionally, it features a wireless interface that enables connectivity with iPads, smartphones, and tablets.
The AIT5000 establishes a secure Wi-Fi network that is password protected, enabling the transmission of AIS and GPS data to widely used iOS and Android applications like Navionics, iSailor, Weather4D, SailGrib, iNavX, TimeZero, and others. These applications provide a comprehensive display of local AIS targets, continuously updated in real-time. Depending on the specific app, users can select a target and access information regarding its identity and collision avoidance data. This includes details such as CPA (closest point of approach) and TCPA (time to closest point of approach).
The tablet’s browser (Safari, Chrome, etc.) provides a simple, embedded web interface for one time programming of the boat’s identity and physical dimensions, required of all AIS transponders. Silencing the transmission and setting up wireless parameters such as passwords can also be done via this web interface.
Moreover, if you want the wireless interface to also transmit your NMEA 2000 data, please add our iKonvert which is an NMEA 2000 to NMEA 0183 converter. The wireless interface can connect up to 7 devices.
The AIT5000 has the option of an AIS SART alarm which is great for use with personal AIS MOB devices. Now works with the popular Navionics Boating App for Apple iOS and Android to display GPS and AIS data on your Navionics charts.
Configuration
In order to facilitate the use and configuration of our AIS transponders, our AIT5000 now has a built-in web interface. The configuration of the transponder can be done through a computer, a tablet or even a smartphone and most importantly, no software is require
You can configure the AIT5000 through its own simple web interface, just open your web browser, enter the AIT5000’s IP address and you can configure the vessel details (MMSI number, Boat name, etc.), network name, password and even merge the AIS’s WiFi to an existing WiFi network on board. So no complicated programming software or app required. You can even view the received NMEA data in the web browser, for easy fault finding of issues.
Finally, the AIT5000 supports TCP and UDP network protocols for maximum compatibility with apps. If you want to have full bi-directional control of an autopilot, with guaranteed data integrity or you want to be the only person receiving the data, then select TCP. If however, you want to receive the same data on multiple devices, for instance a PC at the chart table and an iPad on deck, then select the UDP broadcast protocol.