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What is AIS? | V5035 Operator and Installation Manual
What is AIS?
The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a Very High Frequency
(VHF) radio broadcasting system that transfers packets of data
over the VHF data link (VDL) and enables AIS equipped vessels and
shore-based stations to exchange identification information and
navigational data. Ships with AIS transponders continually transmit
their ID, position, course, speed and other data to all nearby ships
and shore stations. Such information can aid greatly in situational
awareness and provide a means to assist in collision avoidance.
AIS equipment is standardized by ITU, IEC, IALA and IMO and is sub-
ject to approval by a certification body. The following AIS devices
have been developed for variant applications.
• AIS Class A:
Mandated by the IMO for vessels of 300 gross tonnages and up-
wards engaged on international voyages, cargo ships of 500 gross
tonnages and upwards, as well as passenger ships. It transmits typi-
cally on 12.5 watt output power.
• AIS Class B:
Provides limited functionality and is intended for non-SOLAS com-
mercial vessels and recreational vessels. It transmits typically on 2
watt output power.
• AIS Receiver:
Only receives AIS signal and does not have transmitter to send out
AIS signal. Suitable for recreational vessels that do not want to send
out its vessel information.
• AIS Base Station:
Is provided by aids-to-navigation authorities to enable the ship to
shore / shore to ship transmission of information. Networked AIS
Base Stations can assist in providing overall maritime domain aware-
ness.
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