Collection: AIS only

AIS: see and be seen, safety first

AIS (Automatic Identification System) has become an essential tool for safety at sea. At Skysat, with our offshore racing experience, we know that the reliability and accuracy of AIS data are crucial. Here you will find a rigorous selection of AIS transceivers, receivers, and transponders, along with advice for optimal integration into your navigation system.

Choosing your AIS transceiver or receiver

The choice between a simple receiver, a transceiver, or an AIS transponder depends on your needs and sailing program. A receiver lets you monitor surrounding maritime traffic, while a transceiver makes your vessel visible to other equipped ships. A transponder combines both functions.

• AIS receiver: Ideal for small vessels wanting to monitor maritime traffic.
• AIS transceiver (Class B): Makes your vessel visible to others, with limited transmit power.
• AIS transponder (Class A): Mandatory for commercial vessels, offers superior range and transmission priority.
• AIS antenna splitter: Allows sharing an existing VHF antenna between VHF radio and AIS.

AIS integration and compatibility

Integrating AIS into your navigation system is essential to fully exploit its capabilities. It is important to verify compatibility with your chartplotter, radar, and navigation software. The NMEA 2000 protocol facilitates integration, but proper configuration is often required.

• NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000: Communication protocols for AIS data exchange.
• Chartplotter compatibility: Check if your display supports AIS data.
• Dedicated GPS antennas: Recommended for optimal AIS position accuracy.
• MMSI configuration: Essential for vessel identification.

💡 Skysat tip

AIS is a valuable safety tool, but it does not replace visual and radar watch. Ensure you understand AIS technology limitations and always navigate cautiously.