AIS Transponders from Digital Yacht
Boating Industry Canada
Digital Yacht’s comprehensive range of AIS products aims to integrate safe, easy boating with low cost consumer devices, such as iPhones, tablets, PCs and Macs. They have introduced a range of affordable AIS Class B transponders intended specifically for easy installation and use at a fraction of the cost of traditional systems.
First up, the AIT1500 is an easy to install Class B AIS transponder with plug ‘n play NMEA 2000 interface and built in GPS antenna. As a transponder, it sends vessel data to other AIS users. Class B units require their own GPS in order to ensure accurate data transmission. The AIT1500N2K has a built in, highly sensitive GPS so it can be installed below decks on GRP boats eliminating the need for an external antenna. All that is required to complete operation is connection to a VHF antenna or suitable AIS-VHF antenna splitter such as the Digital Yacht SPL2000.
The AIT1500 comes with a USB interface for programming and for use with PC or Mac based charting applications. Digital Yacht also have an optional WiFi adaptor for the NMEA 2000 backbone to allow data transfer to a tablet, smart phone or iPad. “Many boaters see the huge benefits of AIS and want to embrace the technology but are put off by a difficult and costly installation. The AIT1500N2K could not be easier to fit – it even takes power from the boat’s NMEA 2000 network.” commented Paul Sumpner, CTO of Digital Yacht.
Next in line is the AIT2000 Class B AIS transponder which has multiple outputs to suit every installation and optional wireless solution. Three sets of cables are supplied with the device for quick plug ‘n play installation. There is also a second NMEA 0183 output with GPS data at 4800 baud which can be used to feed a DSC VHF. Additionally, with the built-in multiplexer and NMEA input, the instrument and AIS data can be aggregated into one output.
“We ordered 60 plus of the Digital Yacht AIS Transponders to equip our entire fleet of recreational fishing boats” said John Sedo, SVP of Operations at Queen Charlotte Lodge in Richmond, BC Canada “we think it is vitally important for our captains and crew to “see” and be “seen” when out on the water, and were very impressed with the quality of the AIS devices from Digital Yacht as well as the timely delivery and support from the Fugawi team”.
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