Vesper Marine VESPWMX850 User Manual

®
AISWatchMate
Class B AIS Transceiver
Model: WMX850
WMX850-504-1110

Trademarks

AISWatchMate is a registered trademark of Vesper Marine Ltd. All

Copyright Notice

Copyright © 2010, Vesper Marine Ltd. All rights are reserved.
Unless otherwise indicated, all documentation and operating software contained within this product or distributed with this product is copyrighted by Vesper Marine Ltd. All rights are reserved.
Except for short quotations in a review, no portions of this document or the software contained within this product may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission of Vesper Marine Ltd.
Portions of this product may use software licensed under the GNU GPL or a modified GPL. Source code for the applicable software is available upon request from Vesper Marine Ltd.

Technical Accuracy

The information contained in this document is to the best of our knowledge correct at the time of publication. However, we reserve the right to change specifications, installation and operating instructions without notice as part of our ongoing product development and improvement programs.
No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in this document, or any other document provided by Vesper Marine Ltd, although every effort has been made to ensure it is as complete and accurate as possible.
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General Warnings

The AISWatchMate works in cooperation with other vessels and systems such as transceivers and GPS. The accuracy of this device and the AIS system can be affected by many factors, including equipment failure or defects, environmental conditions and incorrect installation, handling or use. Vesper Marine does not warrant that this product is error-free. It is the user’s responsibility to exercise common prudence and navigational judgment. This device should not be relied upon as a substitute for such prudence and judgment. Always maintain a permanent watch so that you can respond to situations as they develop.
The prudent mariner will not rely on a single aid to navigation. The user should verify the information obtained from the AISWatchMate is in accordance with expected situations and conditions. The information is not guaranteed to be accurate or reliable and the
AISWatchMate is not a substitute for proper seamanship.
Vesper Marine Limited cannot be held liable for any injury, damage or loss caused by, during, or because of the installation, use or inability to use this device. The AISWatchMate is to be installed and used entirely at your own risk. By installing and/or using the AISWatchMate you fully accept this risk and agree to hold Vesper Marine Limited harmless.

RF Emissions Warning

CAUTION: This device generates and radiates electromagnetic energy. This device must be installed and operated according to the instructions contained in this manual. Failure to do so may result in product malfunction and / or exposure to potentially harmful levels of radio frequency radiation.
CAUTION: Never operate this device unless it is connected to a
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VHF antenna.
The system has a Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) radius of 1m from the antenna. This has been determined assuming the maximum power of the transmitter and using a standard half-wave monopole VHF antenna with a maximum gain of 3dBi and termination impedence of 50 ohms.
When installing the antenna and operating the equipment consider the following:
The antenna should be mounted as high above deck as
possible.
Higher gain VHF antennas will require a larger MPE radius.
Do not operate the unit when anyone is within the MPE
radius of the antenna.
The antenna should not be collocated or operated in
conjunction with any other transmitting antenna.

MMSI Programming Warning

IMPORTANT: In most countries the operation of an AIS unit is included under the vessel's marine VHF license provisions and the vessel on which this device is to be installed may be required to possess a current VHF radiotelephone license which lists the AIS system and the vessel Call Sign and MMSI number.
An MMSI number is required in order for this device to operate as a transmitter.
Please contact the relevant authority in your country for more information.
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For Customers in the USA

This device must be programmed with data corresponding to the vessel on which it will be installed. Programming must be carried out by a Vesper Marine dealer. The included instructions contain information on how to verify the correct programming.
WARNING: It is a violation of the rules of the Federal Communications Commission to input an MMSI that has not been properly assigned to the end user, or to otherwise input any inaccurate data in this device

GPS Antenna

The AISWatchMate Transceiver has a built-in GPS patch antenna. This antenna requires a clear view of the sky. The performance of the internal GPS antenna is also highly dependent on the environment in which the device is mounted. The antenna performance maybe significantly reduced if the AISWatchMate is installed on, under, or near large metal structures. If you are mounting the display in a location which will not provide adequate GPS signal coverage then you must install a dedicated external GPS antenna. You cannot share a GPS or GPS antenna. See the GPS Installation section for more information on installing an external GPS antenna.

Compass Safe Distance

Mount your AISWatchMate Transceiver at least 0.6m (2 feet) from any compass. Test your compass to verify that it operates properly when this device is operating.
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Electronic Waste Recycling

Various regional and national regulations exist regarding the recycling of certain electronics. Please consult your local authorities or contact Vesper Marine for recycling information.

Care Notice

To provide protection against the damaging effects of UV light, it is recommended to replace the cover when not in use.
Take care when cleaning to avoid damage:
Be careful when wiping the display screen to avoid
scratching. Use a clean soft damp cloth.
Do not use acid, ammonia, solvents, or any abrasive products.

Standards

This product complies with the following standards under the European R&TTE directive for Article 3.1(a), 3.1(b), 3.2 and 3.3(e):
IEC 62287-1: 2006-3 Maritime navigation and radio-
communication equipment and systems – Class B shipborne equipment of the automatic identification system (AIS) – Part 1 Carrier-sense time division multiple access (CSTDMA) techniques.
IEC 60945: 2002-08 Maritime navigation and radio-
communication equipment and systems – General Requirements – Methods of testing and required test results.
IEC 61108-1 Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) –
Part 1 Global positioning system (GPS) Receiver equipment – Performance standards, methods of testing and required
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results
EN 301 843-1 v1.2.1 (2004-06) Electromagnetic
compatibility and Radio spectrum matters (ERM); Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for marine radio equipment and services; Part 1: Common technical requirements.
EN 50385: 2002 Product standard to demonstrate the
compliance of radio base stations and fixed terminal stations for wireless telecommunication systems with the basic restrictions or the reference levels related to human exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic fields (110MHz – 40GHz) – General Public
EN 50383: 2002 Basic standard for the calculation and
measurement of electromagnetic field strength and SAR related to human exposure from radio base stations and fixed terminal stations for wireless telecommunication systems (110 MHz - 40 GHz).
EN 60950-1: 2001 Information technology equipment –
Safety – Part 1: General Requirements.
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Declaration of Conformity

Vesper Marine declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements and other provisions of the R&TTE directive 1995/5/EC.
This product is for use worldwide, including the following European countries:
AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK
EE ES FI FR GR HU IE IS
IT LI LT LU LV MT NO NL
PL PT RO SE SI SK UK
This device is also approved for use in the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
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Table of Contents
Trademarks.....................................................................................2
Copyright Notice............................................................................2
Technical Accuracy........................................................................2
General Warnings...........................................................................3
RF Emissions Warning..............................................................3
MMSI Programming Warning...................................................4
For Customers in the USA....................................................5
GPS Antenna..............................................................................5
Compass Safe Distance..............................................................5
Electronic Waste Recycling.......................................................6
Care Notice................................................................................6
Standards.........................................................................................6
Declaration of Conformity..............................................................8
Glossary........................................................................................15
Introduction...................................................................................17
Range.......................................................................................18
Bearing.....................................................................................19
Closest point of approach (CPA).............................................19
Time until CPA (TCPA)..........................................................19
Important Information..................................................................20
Specifications................................................................................21
Installation....................................................................................25
Requirements...........................................................................25
Mounting the Display..............................................................26
VHF Antenna Installation........................................................26
GPS Antenna Installation.........................................................27
Connectors...............................................................................28
Power/Data Cable Wiring........................................................29
Minimum Connections.............................................................30
Connecting an Optional Heading Sensor or Chart Plotter.......31
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Connecting an Optional External Alarm..................................31
Using a Relay to Control a High Current External Device......32
GPS Backup Power..................................................................33
Using the USB Connection......................................................33
Using your AIS WatchMate when powered by USB..............34
Configuration...........................................................................34
Important Notice.................................................................37
Power Button................................................................................38
One Minute Startup Time........................................................38
Initial Profile Setting................................................................38
Buttons..........................................................................................38
Display Screens............................................................................39
Home Page – Situation Display...............................................39
Range Rings........................................................................40
Plotting Range.....................................................................40
Target count.........................................................................40
Selecting a Target................................................................40
Icon Meanings.....................................................................41
Main Menu...............................................................................43
Target List...........................................................................43
Plotting Range.....................................................................43
Profile..................................................................................43
Clear Selection....................................................................43
Weather Reports..................................................................43
Fleet List..............................................................................44
Message List........................................................................44
GPS Position.......................................................................44
GPS Status...........................................................................44
AIS Status............................................................................44
Send MAYDAY..................................................................44
Anchor Watch.....................................................................45
Setup....................................................................................45
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Target List................................................................................46
Target Display..........................................................................48
CPA Graphical Display............................................................51
Safety Message List.................................................................53
Safety Message Display...........................................................55
Fleet List .................................................................................57
Weather Reports ......................................................................57
GPS Position Display...............................................................57
GPS Status Display..................................................................57
AIS Status Display...................................................................58
MMSI Configured...............................................................59
Silent Mode is Off...............................................................59
Startup Complete.................................................................59
GPS Position Fix.................................................................59
Position Report Sent............................................................60
Frequency............................................................................60
Mode....................................................................................60
RSSI....................................................................................60
Rx Msg Count.....................................................................60
Tx Msg Count......................................................................60
CS Thres..............................................................................60
Using the Anchor Watch..........................................................61
Use of Heading Data...........................................................63
Effect of GPS Antenna Reference Location.......................63
Auto Clear...........................................................................64
Icon Meanings Within Anchor Watch................................64
Displaying Information About your AIS WatchMate.............65
Target Filters.................................................................................66
Range Filter..............................................................................66
Speed Filter..............................................................................66
CPA Filter................................................................................67
TCPA Filter..............................................................................67
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Target Alarms...............................................................................68
Guard Alarm............................................................................69
CPA Alarm...............................................................................70
CPA.....................................................................................70
Time (TCPA).......................................................................70
Target Speed........................................................................71
Your Speed..........................................................................71
Profiles..........................................................................................72
Harbor......................................................................................72
Coastal......................................................................................72
Offshore...................................................................................72
Anchor......................................................................................72
Setup Mode...................................................................................73
Target List Settings..................................................................73
Data display in target list.....................................................73
Sort targets by priority.........................................................74
Inactive target display time.................................................74
Alarm Settings.........................................................................74
Lost position alert................................................................74
Safety message handling.....................................................75
NMEA device alerts............................................................75
Alarm mode.........................................................................75
Test the alarm......................................................................76
Navigation Settings..................................................................76
Course and heading mode...................................................76
Bearing to target mode........................................................76
Default display orientation..................................................77
GPS Smoothing...................................................................77
GPS SBAS (WAAS, EGNOS)............................................77
Simulation mode.................................................................77
Display Settings.......................................................................78
Brightness............................................................................78
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Contrast...............................................................................78
Turn display off when idle..................................................78
About your AIS WatchMate...............................................78
Preference Settings...................................................................79
Language.............................................................................79
Date format..........................................................................79
Metric or imperial................................................................79
AIS Transceiver.......................................................................79
Silent Mode.........................................................................79
Your vessel AIS details.......................................................79
I/O Port Settings.......................................................................79
NMEA input........................................................................79
NMEA output......................................................................79
Additional Settings...................................................................79
Reset all settings..................................................................79
Settings Associated with Each Profile.....................................80
Display orientation..............................................................80
Target speed filter................................................................81
Target range filter................................................................81
Target CPA filter.................................................................82
Target TCPA filter..............................................................83
Guard alarm range...............................................................83
CPA alarm...........................................................................84
CPA alarm - Time...............................................................84
CPA alarm - Target Speed..................................................85
CPA alarm - Your speed.....................................................86
Built-in Integrity Test (BIIT)........................................................87
Device Alerts................................................................................88
Troubleshooting............................................................................89
Display shuts off......................................................................89
Won't shut off when I press the power button.........................89
CPA alarm doesn't sound.........................................................89
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Alarms sounds for every target................................................89
Warranty – North America...........................................................90
Warranty - Australia and New Zealand........................................91
Warranty - European Union..........................................................92
Obtaining Warranty Service.........................................................93
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Glossary

AIS Universal Shipborne Automatic Identification
System. A system of transceivers installed on vessels which send continuously updated navigation information. An AIS receiver or transceiver is used to monitor these transmissions and the AISWatchMate is used to display this information and trigger alarms when there is a risk of collision.
BRG / Bearing
Class A/B There are two classes of AIS transceivers. Class A are
COG Course over ground. The course a vessel is making
CPA Closest point of approach. The nearest distance in
Filter A set of criteria used to determine if a target should
GPS Global Positioning System. Used to provide your
IMO International Maritime Organization. A unique IMO
The location of another vessel typically expressed as true or magnetic degrees. May also be expressed as relative degrees from your vessel's heading.
used on vessels which have mandatory requirements to carry AIS transceivers. Class B are used on vessels for which AIS transceivers are optional.
which is not necessarily the same as the vessel's heading.
nautical miles two vessels will come to one another if they both maintain their current course and speed.
be included in the target list, such as its range or speed.
vessel's current position, course, and speed.
number is permanently assigned to each ship and may
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be used to find additional registration information for a particular vessel.
HDG / Heading
MMSI Maritime Mobile Service Identity. Used as a radio
Profile A group of settings. Profiles allow you to organize
RNG / Range
ROT Rate of turn. The number of degrees a vessel is
SOG Speed over ground. The actual speed in knots a vessel
The course a vessel is steering.
identifier for each vessel with digital radios such as an AIS transceiver. Vessels may also transmit their name to facilitate easier identification. These transmissions occur at a different interval than position information and as a result the name may not be immediately available. All AIS transceivers require a unique MMSI. The AISWatchMate will not transmit until you configure your MMSI.
filter and alarm settings and activate them together when your navigation situation changes.
The distance in nautical miles between two vessels.
turning over a specified amount of time. Usually per minute but may also be per 30 seconds.
is making over the ground.
Target Another vessel for which AIS information has been
received.
Target List The set of all targets which meet the filter
requirements.
TCPA The time until the closest point of approach.
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Introduction

The AISWatchMate is a device which provides information to assist in avoiding collisions at sea. It works by receiving and transmitting data as part of the Universal Shipborne Automated Identification Systems (AIS). The AIS system uses two dedicated VHF channels designated for this purpose and with the installation of the
AISWatchMate to receive signals from other AIS-equipped vessels
you can view this information. In addition, your vessel data is transmitted to other AIS-equipped vessels within range.
The AIS system provides several types of messages from other vessels and base stations. Each type of message is sent at a different interval based on the navigation status of the vessel. Vessels moving or turning faster send out navigation information more frequently than vessels at anchor. Data received from other vessels is split between two types: navigation information and voyage information. Vessel navigation and position information is generated by an on­board GPS or similar navigation device and is sent frequently. Voyage information contains the ship's name, its destination, size, type, cargo, etc. This data is typically only sent once every few minutes.
The AISWatchMate provides a means to view how recently information has been received from each vessel and this data is designed to help you determine how accurate and dependable the information may be at any given time.
The AISWatchMate refers to each vessel other than your own as a target. Associated with each target are the most recently received position, navigation, and voyage information. Also associated with each target are computed data to help determine the risk of a collision.
The targets are contained within a target list. The AISWatchMate
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allows you to view the target list and also examine each target in detail. By default, the target list is ordered by priority. You can disable priority ordering if you wish. However, by viewing targets in a prioritized fashion you can focus your interest on the targets most likely to pose a collision risk first. Similarly, whenever a target triggers an alarm you don't have to scroll to find it. The target is displayed immediately with an indication of the cause of the alarm.
The AISWatchMate utilizes data from its built-in GPS receiver to assist you in determining the risk of a collision with each target. Multiple targets are automatically and continuously tracked simultaneously. Alarms are associated with each individual target and when an alarm is muted for one target it does not affect any other targets which might also trigger alarms.
The computed data for each target includes the following items. Note that in order to compute this data your vessel's current position, course, and speed are required. The AISWatchMate receives this information continuously from its built-in GPS.
If the built-in GPS does not have a valid “fix” then this information will not be computed and displayed. In addition, your own information will not be transmitted to other vessels.
Range The AISWatchMate computes the range
(distance in nautical miles) to each target and displays it along with the target information.
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Bearing The bearing to each target is also
displayed. The bearing may be shown as magnetic to facilitate quick visual identification using a compass or binoculars. However, if you wish you can change a setting to display bearings in degrees true or relative to your vessel's current heading.
Closest point of approach (CPA)
Time until CPA (TCPA)
The AISWatchMate automatically updates these computed values whenever new information is received from a target and also whenever your vessel's position, speed, or course changes. The information displayed is always the most up-to-date available but because the AIS and GPS systems do not guarantee the frequency of updates from each vessel it can be inaccurate and can become further inaccurate as time progresses without continuous updates from both
The CPA is the closest a target will come to your vessel if both your vessel and the target maintain their existing course and speed. It is displayed in nautical miles to the nearest tenth or hundredth. As either your vessel or the target changes its course or speed, the CPA (along with all other computed data) is automatically recomputed and redisplayed.
This is the amount of time until the CPA will occur. It indicates how much time is available before the two vessels will reach their nearest distance to each other. It is displayed in minutes and seconds or just minutes if the time exceeds one hour.
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vessels.
Always check to see how long it has been since an update was received from a vessel when relying on this information, particularly in close situations. You do this by examining the “age”
of the target. See the target display section for more details.
The AIS system also includes messages broadcast from other vessels and shore stations which may be used to send navigation warnings, weather information, etc. The AISWatchMate displays this information on the messages page and by default is configured to sound an alert when a message is received.
We are always interested in your suggestions, comments, ideas, and criticisms. We continuously strive to improve our products and would greatly enjoy hearing from you.
Please contact us through our website www.vespermarine.com or via e-mail to support@vespermarine.com.

Important Information

Before using the AISWatchMate, it is important that you read and fully understand this owner's manual and installation instructions.
Although more vessels continue to install AIS transceivers it is important to remember that not all vessels carry AIS transceivers. The AISWatchMate can only display information received from properly equipped and operated vessels. In addition, the
AISWatchMate relies on the accuracy of the GPS system. A failure or
compromised operation of either of these systems will reflect on the accuracy of the data displayed and alarms triggered by the
AISWatchMate.
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Specifications

Size (not including cables or mounting bracket)
Flush mount thickness 17mm (11/16”)
Mounting template Included
Power supply 12-24 VDC 1A max, 3W nominal
Environmental Watertight (USCG CFR-46, IPx7)
Operating temperature -25°C to +55°C (-13°F to 131°F)
Storage temperature -25°C to +80°C (-13°F to 176°F)
LCD panel 125mm (5”) FSTN 320x240 backlit
LCD light level Off and multiple levels of
Serial data 1 USB port, 1 NMEA input
Baud rates 4800 and 38400
NMEA output RMC, GSV, GSA, GGA, GLL,
208mm wide x 135mm high x 76mm depth (8 3/16” x 5 5/16” x 3”)
brightness
(RS422), 1 NMEA output (RS422)
VTG, VDO, VDM, TXT
NMEA input (optional) ALR, HDG, HDM, HDT
AIS messages displayed All Class A and Class B position
reports, voyage data, static data, aids to navigation, search and rescue, SART, meteorological / hydrographic and broadcast safety messages (1,2,3,5,8,9,14,18,19,21,24A,24B)
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Number of receivers 2 AIS, 1 DSC (timeshared)
Number of transmitters 1 AIS
Frequency range 156.025 – 162.025 MHz
Channel bandwidth 25 kHz
Sensitivity -107 dBm < 20% PER
Power output 33 dBm (2W)
GPS 50 channel
GPS sensitivity -159dBm tracking & navigation
-142dBm acquisition
GPS SBAS support WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN
Maximum number of simultaneous targets displayed
Maximum number of simultaneous broadcast safety messages displayed
Maximum number of simultaneous meteorological stations displayed
Maximum fleet size 50 vessels
External alarm Maximum current 150mA. Use an
Power/data connector 10 pin circular. 2m cable included.
USB connector Mini USB. Optional waterproof
150 (if more, then the lowest priority target is replaced)
30 (if more, then the oldest message is replaced)
30 (if more, then the oldest received meteorological information is replaced)
external relay if more is required.
cable available.
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GPS antenna connector TNC. Optional GPS antenna
available.
VHF antenna connector SO-239
VHF antenna required PL-259 connector. 50 ohm, max 2:1
VSWR
Vesper Marine is committed to continuously improving our products. As a result, specifications may change and there may also be differences between the product and this manual.
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Installation

Requirements

The AISWatchMate requires a suitable VHF antenna which must be supplied by the user and a clear view of the sky for the built-in GPS or an external GPS antenna.
The following are required for installation:
Various countries have regulations requiring a VHF radio
license to operate an AIS transceiver. Check with your local authorities to determine the requirements for your area.
You must have an assigned MMSI and Call Sign for your
vessel. If you do not have an assigned MMSI, contact the relevant authority in your country. You must enter a valid MMSI number into this device.
Once you enter the MMSI number it cannot be changed. If you need to change the MMSI, please contact an authorized dealer or Vesper Marine.
A suitable VHF antenna or Vesper Marine AIS/VHF Antenna
Splitter. Performance cannot be assured if you use any other antenna splitter. The use of an improper splitter may damage your AISWatchMate and void your warranty.
If you are not able to mount the unit with a clear view of the
sky or if your mounting location and / or other equipment interferes with the built-in GPS antenna, then an optional external GPS antenna is required. You must use a dedicated GPS antenna which cannot be shared with any other
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equipment. However, the GPS data produced by the
AISWatchMate is available for use by other optional
equipment connected to the NMEA output.

Mounting the Display

Your AISWatchMate is supplied with a trunnion mounting bracket if you wish to mount it above or below a shelf or other support. You may also mount the unit by cutting a hole in an instrument panel and mounting it flush. Included is a template you can use to cut the hole and drill four additional holes for the required fasteners. A gasket is also included to seal the unit against your instrument panel.
Do not disassemble the unit or remove the screws which hold it together. The unit is sealed and disassembly will void the warranty.
If you require service or assistance please contact your dealer or Vesper Marine.

VHF Antenna Installation

The AISWatchMate must be connected to a suitable VHF antenna or Vesper Marine AIS/VHF Antenna Splitter. Performance cannot be assured if you use any other antenna splitter. The use of an improper splitter may damage your AISWatchMate and void your warranty.
When installing the VHF antenna please take into consideration:
The type of antenna should be an omnidirectional VHF
antenna designed for the marine band (156-162 MHz).
There are AIS-frequency adapted antennas available. You
may also use a standard marine VHF antenna.
The antenna must be dedicated and not connected to any
other equipment.
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Place your antenna as high as possible and at least 2-3 metres
(6-10 ft) above the water surface.
Place your VHF antenna as far as possible from other
antennas and metal structures, especially other VHF, HF and radar antennas. It is not recommended to place the VHF antenna directly alongside a mast or another VHF antenna such as on a mast-head.

GPS Antenna Installation

The AISWatchMate has an internal GPS patch antenna facing upwards. This antenna requires a clear view of the sky. However, the performance of the internal GPS antenna is also highly dependent on where you place your AISWatchMate. For example, you may find that it works well under a non-metallic dodger or spray hood but performance may be reduced if the AISWatchMate is installed on, under, or near metal structures. If you are mounting the display in a location which will not provide adequate GPS signal coverage then you must install a dedicated GPS antenna. You cannot share a GPS or GPS antenna.
When installing an external GPS antenna please take into consideration:
Only use a 3.3VDC active antenna that contains a low noise
amplifier. Vesper Marine has available an optional external GPS antenna designed specifically for use with the
AISWatchMate.
The GPS antenna should be situated so it has an unobstructed
view of the sky above.
Do not place the GPS antenna near or in the path of radar or
HF antennas.
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It is not necessary to change any settings when using the
optional Vesper Marine GPS antenna. Simply connect it to the TNC connector on the back of the unit.
Considerations when using the internal GPS patch antenna:
The AISWatchMate should be situated so it has no metal
obstructions over the top. The antenna is located in the back “bulge” area at the top of the unit facing upwards.
Avoid placing your hand or body over the antenna area as this
may reduce satellite signal strength.
Hint: Use the GPS Status screen to view satellite signal strengths which will assist in determining the best location for the unit or antenna.

Connectors

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