1. GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The AM43 Multiplexer combines up to four NMEA 0183 instruments (talkers) into multiple NMEA 0183 outputs. It
supports both standard and high speed baud rates, 4800-38,400 for full AIS compatibility. Three outputs are provided, a lo-
speed output (OUT) at 4800 baud, a hi-speed output (OUTh) at 38,400 baud, and a TLK output for PC generated data. The
outputs normally go to NMEA listeners such as a radar, chartplotter, or repeater. A multicolor status LED shows data flow
and error conditions.
A USB computer interface is also included. This interface receives all of the combined data from the instruments but can
also send data back to the instruments, which will appear at the TLK port of the AM43. This can be used for downloading
waypoints, sending steering commands, error monitoring and more.
Installation of the AM43 is simple. All connections to instruments are made via a terminal strip. The unit begins operating
as soon as power is applied. No initialization or setup is required. The USB connector provides 2-way data communication
to/from a computer. The AM43 may be operated either with or without the USB connection. Some configuration options are
user programmable (see Appendix A).
To assist in installation and troubleshooting, a multicolor LED is located the top left rear of the AM43. The LED will flicker
green when valid NMEA sentences are being received on any of the four inputs. The LED glows red when valid NMEA
sentences are received from the USB interface. It will flashes yellow for a half-second if an error is detected, and
simultaneously send an error identification sentence to the PC output (USB).
2. INSTALLATION
Installation of the AM43 requires connection to a power source and to NMEA talkers and listeners. All connections are
made via a fifteen position terminal strip (see Figure 1). A description of the connections is given in Table 1. Any unused
connections open may be left disconnected. A USB connector is provided on the rear for connection to a computer, if
desired.
Power/Ground Connection. The power (PWR) and ground (GND) connections are located at one end of the terminal strip.
The power source can be anywhere in the 8-30 Vdc range. There is no ON/OFF switch on the AM43 due to its low power
consumption.
Figure1 AM43 Connections
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