New AIS400 from Digital Yacht

For Immediate Release

NEWBURYPORT, Mass. - Digital Yacht has launched a new high performance dual channel AIS receiver called the AIS400. AIS receivers pick up signals from any vessel equipped with an AIS Class A or B transponder (mandatory on vessels over 300GRT) and send the vessel’s identity, position, course and speed over VHF frequencies.

Hook up an AIS receiver to a compatible plotter and you’ll see an overlay of nearby targets typically up to 20-30NM. It’s like adding radar to your chart plotter with the added bonus of positive identification. The AIS400 has connections for both a regular chart plotter via NMEA and also a USB connection for a PC based plotter system such as Maxsea, Seapro, Maptech and Nobeltec.

The AIS400 also incorporates its own GPS receiver which means it can act as a GPS sensor and position information can be combined with the AIS target data onto the USB and NMEA outputs. This allows it to act as a position sensor for navigation systems as well as an AIS receiver.

AIS target data is transmitted on two frequencies. Most AIS receivers in the market place today are single channel units which multiplex or fast switch between the two frequencies. This can lead to target drop out with a worst case scenario of a Class B target dropping out for up to one minute before being re-acquired. The AIS400 is a true dual channel unit with two individual, highly sensitive receivers to ensure constant monitoring of targets.

Digital Yacht has also offered an upgrade route for the receiver to a full function Class B transponder – sending data too! Users can send back their AIS400 receiver and for a relatively small  upgrade fee turn their AIS receiver into a full type approved, Class B AIS transponder. Credit crunch, upgradable AIS!

The unit measures 255 x 120 x 35mm and is priced at $699