How to Equip Your Boat to Receive AIS Signals

The Automatic Identification System (AIS), helps identify other boats and sea vehicles that aren't visible to the naked eye. Here's what you need to know to choose a unit for your vessel.

Instructions

1. Purchase a device that is able to receive and process incoming AIS messages.

2. If you are equipping a recreational boat that is not required to have AIS, purchase a Class B transponder.

3. If you want the AIS only to receive messages and not transmit them, purchase a transponder that receives only AIS.

4. Purchase a standard VHF antenna for the AIS receiver.

5. You must buy special computer software for displaying AIS.

6. Install each component for AIS according to the manufacturer's directions.

Tips & Warnings

• If your boat is 300 gross tons or more, the IMO SOLAS requires you to have an AIS for international voyages.

• If you are operating a new passenger vessel, it must be equipped with AIS.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish