Furuno FA-70 Class B AIS with GPA-C01 GPS Antenna

Furuno FA70 Class B AIS Transponder With SOTDMA (IMD031500AA)

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FURUNO

IMD031500AA

AIS FA70 Class B+

The FURUNO FA70 is a Class B+ AIS transponder using SOTDMA technology for enhanced safety and visibility. With a 5W transmit power, it provides a greater range and more reliable position updates than standard Class B AIS devices. Its integrated VHF antenna splitter simplifies installation, while its NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 connectivity ensures seamless integration with your navigation instruments.

Includes: FA-70 transponder, power/NMEA1/silence cable, NMEA2000 cable, mounting screws, software CD.

Retail priceBenefit from the professional rate

1.180,01€

1.180,01€ ~~1.239,00€~~

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In stock

Free pickup point shipping over €150 in France
Pickup at Skysat possible

Custom installation

Trust Skysat to install the equipment on board

Request a quote

Installers near you

thanks to our network of approved installers

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Support service

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Technical specifications

NMEA 2000 Load Equivalency Number (LEN)	1
Operating voltage	12/24
Operating temperature	-15 to +55
Max power consumption	21.6
Typical power consumption	3.6
Recommended fuse rating	5
Product width	177
Product height	158
Product depth	55
IP rating	IP55
Bus compatibility	NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183
Wired network	NMEA 2000,NMEA 0183
Mounting type	Fitting
Certifications	IEC 60945, IEC 62287-1, IEC 62287-2
AIS class	Class B+
AIS RX	Yes
AIS TX	Yes
DSC	Yes
GPS	Yes
Max AIS targets	Not specified
VHF frequency range	156.025 - 162.025
VHF transmit power	5
Antenna connector	Not specified
GPS antenna connector	TNC
Receiver sensitivity	Not specified
Transmit power	5
Time to first fix (cold)	90
External GNSS antenna support	Yes
Package contents	AIS transponder FA-70, Power/NMEA1/Silence cable (61110000000101), NMEA 2000 cable (NPD-MM1MF1000G02M), 4x self-tapping screws (PA4x25), 2x spare fuses (250V 5A), CD-ROM (AIS tuning tool)
Available alarms	Antenna error, power supply voltage error, temperature error, TX error, RX error, GNSS error
AIS transmission scheme	SOTDMA
Antenna IP rating	IP56
Antenna operating temperature	-25 to +70
Backorder allowed	Yes
Channel spacing	25
Compass safe distance	30
Contact closure port count	1
Contact closure port count	1
DSC frequency	156.525
FCC compliance	Yes
Fuse specification	5A 250V
Fuse type	Tube
Supported GNSS systems	GPS, SBAS
GPS channels	12
GPS frequency band	1575.42
First intermediate frequency	46.35 / 58.05
Second intermediate frequency	450
Modulation type	GMSK
NMEA 0183 baud rate	4800/38400
NMEA 0183 sentences	ABK, ACA, ACS, ALR, GGA, GLL, RMC, SSD, TXT, VDM, VDO, VER, VSD, VTG
Operating voltage range	9.6 - 31.2
PC CPU requirement	1 GHz minimum
Required PC display resolution	1280 x 720 or higher
PC RAM requirement	1 GB (32-bit) / 2 GB (64-bit)
Position accuracy	13
RX power consumption (24V)	0.2
TX power consumption (24V)	0.9
Receiver system	Dual-conversion superheterodyne
Silent mode switch	Yes
Supported operating systems	Windows 7 (32/64 bit), Windows 10 (64 bit)
USB connection type	Micro-B
USB version	2.0
VHF splitter frequency range	155 - 164
Integrated VHF splitter	Yes
VHF splitter max power	25
Wired output	RS-422
Wireless connectivity	AIS (VHF)

Detailed description

The FURUNO FA-70 AIS transponder is a Class B+ transceiver that significantly improves safety at sea through the use of SOTDMA (Self-Organising Time Division Multiple Access) technology. Unlike standard Class B transponders that operate in CS-TDMA with a 2W power output, the FA-70 offers selectable output power of 5W or 1W. This higher power, combined with the SOTDMA algorithm, ensures more frequent and reliable transmission of your position, even in high-traffic maritime zones, by reserving a transmission slot to avoid conflicts.

Advanced integration and connectivity

The FA-70 stands out with its integrated VHF antenna splitter, allowing a single VHF antenna to be shared between your radio and the AIS without performance loss. This feature greatly simplifies installation and reduces costs. Its connectivity is comprehensive, featuring an NMEA2000 port, two NMEA0183 input ports, two NMEA0183 output ports, and a micro-USB port for PC configuration. It thus integrates seamlessly with most multifunction displays and navigation software on the market. The internal 12-channel GPS receiver (SBAS-compatible) ensures rapid and precise position acquisition (13 m 2drms).

Robust design and performance

Designed for the marine environment, the FA-70 transponder housing is IP55-certified, protecting it from water spray. It operates on a 12/24 VDC power supply with optimized consumption (1.8–0.9 A in transmission and 0.3–0.2 A in reception). Within the FURUNO range, it represents the logical evolution of the FA-40 receiver alone, offering full transmission capabilities. It also features a switchable silent mode, allowing you to stop transmission of your own position while continuing to receive surrounding targets.

Expert opinion

Pol CONIN

Digital Manager

« The superiority of 5W SOTDMA for uncompromising safety »

The FURUNO FA-70 transponder is a top-tier AIS solution for demanding navigators. Switching to Class B+ SOTDMA technology is not just a technical detail; it is a fundamental safety guarantee. By ensuring a transmission slot, it guarantees that your position is always broadcast, even in high-traffic areas such as harbor approaches or regattas, where standard Class B systems can be "silent." The 5W power significantly increases detection range. The integration of a high-quality VHF splitter is a major advantage, eliminating a potential failure point and simplifying installation. Its dual NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 compatibility makes it a future-proof choice, capable of interfacing with both modern and older navigation systems. This is an investment in active safety, backed by FURUNO’s recognized reliability.

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AIS FA70 Class B+

1.180,01€

1.180,01€ ~~1.239,00€~~

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the difference between this AIS Class B+ and a standard AIS Class B?

The main difference lies in the technology and power output. The FA70 uses SOTDMA (Self-Organising Time Division Multiple Access) technology and has a transmit power of 5W. A standard AIS Class B uses CS-TDMA technology with a power output of 2W.

Thanks to SOTDMA technology and its higher power output, the FA70 transmits your position more frequently and more reliably, even in high-traffic areas, by reserving transmission slots to avoid conflicts.

Do I need to install a second VHF antenna for this AIS?

No, it is not necessary. The FA70 AIS transponder is equipped with an integrated VHF antenna splitter (splitter). This allows it to share the same antenna as your VHF radio without performance loss, which greatly simplifies installation.

Can I connect the FA70 to my NMEA 2000 network?

Yes, absolutely. The FA70 is equipped with an NMEA 2000 port, allowing simple and direct integration with multifunction displays and other compatible devices on your NMEA 2000 network.

What is the required supply voltage for the FA70?

The device is designed to operate on a 12V or 24V DC electrical system. The accepted voltage range is 9.6V to 31.2V DC.

Is this AIS compatible with older NMEA 0183 equipment?

Yes, the FA70 offers excellent compatibility with NMEA 0183 systems. It features:

2 NMEA 0183 input ports2 NMEA 0183 output ports

What is the transmit power of this AIS transponder?

Output power is selectable depending on the technology used:

5W or 1W in SOTDMA mode (Class B+) 2W in CSTDMA mode (standard Class B)

Can I program the MMSI number myself in the device?

Warning: the MMSI number can only be entered once. Once registered, it cannot be modified by the user. If a change is required, you must contact your dealer or a qualified technician.

What is the waterproof rating of the FA70 housing?

The FA70 transponder housing has an IP55 protection rating. This means it is protected against low-pressure water jets from all directions.

What is the power consumption of the AIS FA70?

Power consumption varies depending on your system voltage and operating mode:

In TX mode: 1.8 A at 12V, or 0.9 A at 24V. In RX mode: 0.3 A at 12V, or 0.2 A at 24V.

Does the FA70 have a silent mode?

Yes, it is equipped with a silent mode. This mode allows you to stop transmitting your vessel's position while still receiving AIS data from other boats. It can be activated either via an external switch (optional) or through a software command.

What are the dimensions and weight of the device?

The FA70 transponder has the following dimensions: 177 mm x 158 mm x 55 mm. Its weight is 0.52 kg, excluding cables.

Can the device be configured from a computer?

Yes, the FA70 can be configured via a PC. The device features a micro-USB port for this purpose and comes with a CD-ROM containing the "AIS Setting Tool" configuration software.

Is the device supplied with a GPS antenna?

Yes, the GPS antenna is included in the standard supply. Supplied models are the GPA-017S or GPA-C01.

What is included in the box?

The FA70 standard package includes:

FA-70 AIS transponderA power / NMEA 1 / Silent Mode cableNMEA 2000 cable4 mounting screws2 spare fusesA CD-ROM with configuration software and driversA GPS antenna (GPA-017S or GPA-C01)

Does the FA70 have its own built-in GPS receiver?

Yes, the FA70 includes an internal GPS receiver. It is a 12-channel receiver, SBAS-compatible, providing fast and accurate position acquisition.

What is the accuracy of the integrated GPS?

The internal GPS receiver provides a position accuracy of 13 meters (2 drms, HDOP less than or equal to 4).

Where is it recommended to install the main unit of the transponder?

The unit should be installed in a dry location, protected from direct water spray and rain. The location must be away from heat sources such as exhaust pipes and should have stable, moderate temperature and humidity levels.

Does the FA70’s NMEA2000 port power the network?

No, it’s the opposite. The NMEA2000 network to which you connect the FA70 must have its own external power supply (12–24 V DC). The FA70 does not supply power to the network.