Ais

[Auzzee]

I'm in danger of repetitive strain injury from overuse of the keyboard on CL, but I appreciate the input from seasoned cruisers.

I am seriously considering adding an AIS unit to my nav station. They come from the apparently simple receivers which link to a remote monitor, to RX/TX models which stand alone.

Obviously, I want to limit my expenses as much as possible. I will be doing a degree of singlehanding so I think the purchase of an AIS would be prudent.

What did you buy, or what are you contemplating buying, what are its functions (RX only, or both RX/TX, stand alone or modular) or indeed have you decided on the traditional watch only system with or without the addition of radar.

If you are on a voyage do you run it 24/7 and, if so, what are the power requirements?

I currently have digital, low current draw, radar.

[mico]

Hey Auzzee,

I don't know what you have aboard re VHF but Mico had an old GME VHF without the DCS which we always said we'd eventually update. We were over the moon to then discover that Standard Horizon sold a DSC VHF with AIS included for around $300!

We then purchased a multiplex mixer from NZ ($90) and we now have AIS integrated from the VHF into our Raymarine Radar plotter. It works a treat and far less than having to buy an independent AIS receiver .

We've rarely come across a bargain when it comes to retailers and yacht equipment but this certainly was!


Fair winds,


Mico

[Auzzee]

Wow, sounds good! This looks like the Standard Horizon Matrix AIS+ GX2150. That looks to be a good thing. The whole unit is less than the cheapest TX only AIS. Thanks for the info, I'll check further.
Thanks,
David

[edsailing]

I have a NASA AIS Receive engine which connects to my notepad with world charts. AIS plus aerial cost about GB£130. I run it continuously.

[svReboot]

After about 8,000 NM of open ocean cruising in the last 4 years the one thing I would not give up is my TX/RX AIS. Traveling in high density zones - New York Harbor, crossing the North South ship traffic approaching the European Coast, traveling along high speed ferry routes in Nova Scotia/Newfoundland it is great to see them take independent action to avoid you. It is also much more efficient than trying to give a Lat/Long over the radio to some guy who can't see you anyway because you are such a poor radar target.

That said, I have been almost run down once - recently - and had to take last minute evasive action - while I was talking to the bridge watch on the radio.

[Auzzee]

That's a good recommendation Roger. I'm convinced! Also, excellent blog. I hope the maintenance goes well. If you are heading further south after your lay-up, watch out for Blackbeard.
Cheers,
David