The Vesper Marine XB-6000 and XB-8000 are Class B AIS Transponders designed to enhance situational awareness and assist in avoiding collisions at sea. These devices integrate NMEA 2000 and WiFi connectivity, allowing them to communicate with various other devices on board a vessel, such as chart plotters, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. The XB transponders receive AIS messages from other vessels and transmit the vessel's own position, course, speed, and other data to them.
Function Description:
The core function of the XB-6000 and XB-8000 is to provide Automatic Identification System (AIS) capabilities. They receive AIS messages from two dedicated VHF channels, processing this information to display other vessels on a chart plotter or other connected device. Simultaneously, they transmit the vessel's own AIS data, including position, vessel plot, and other details, to other AIS-equipped vessels within range. The XB-8000 model further extends functionality with integrated WiFi, enabling wireless connectivity to up to five devices in Access Point mode (default) or allowing it to join an existing network in Client Mode.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Size: 200mm wide x 130mm high x 60mm depth (7 7/8" x 5 1/8" x 2 3/8")
- Power Supply: 10-32 VDC, 2A max, 3W nominal. Requires a 2A fuse or circuit breaker.
- Environmental: Waterproof (IPx7)
- Operating Temperature: -25°C to +55°C (-13°F to 131°F)
- Storage Temperature: -25°C to +80°C (-13°F to 176°F)
- Serial Data: 1 USB port (isolated), 1 NMEA input (isolated RS422), 1 NMEA output (non-isolated RS422).
- Data Port Impedance: NMEA input: 96k ohm, NMEA output: 28 ohm.
- NMEA 0183 Output: RMC, GSV, GSA, GGA, GLL, VTG, VDO, VDM, TXT, DSC, HDG, VHW, DPT, VLW, MWD, MWV, MTW, APB, BOD, BWC, BWR, BWW, XTE, WPL, HDG, HDM, HDT (These are processed, but are not required. Other sentences are not processed but all valid NMEA sentences are output on NMEA 0183, WiFi* and USB).
- Number of Receivers: 2 AIS, 1 DSC (timeshared).
- Number of Transmitters: 1 AIS.
- Receive Frequency Range: 156.025 – 162.025 MHz.
- Transmit Frequency Range: 161.500 – 162.025 MHz.
- AIS Sensitivity: -113 dBm < 20% PER.
- Power Output: 33 dBm (2W).
- GPS Sensitivity: -159dBm tracking & navigation, -142dBm acquisition.
- GPS SBAS Support: WAAS, EGNOS, MSAS, GAGAN.
- External Alarm Maximum: 150 mA @ VDC.
- Power/Data Connector: 10 pin circular.
- USB Connector: Mini USB (USB 2.0).
- GPS Antenna Connector: SMA.
- VHF Antenna Connector: SO-239.
- VHF Antenna Required: 50 ohm, max 2:1 VSWR @ 162MHz, PL-259 connector.
- NMEA 2000 Connector: NMEA 2000 Micro-C male.
- Firmware Version: 5.16.
- Wireless (XB-8000 only): 802.11 b/g in Access Point or Client Mode, 10mW.
- Access Point Security (XB-8000 only): WPA2 Personal.
- Client Mode Security (XB-8000 only): None, WPA & WPA2 Personal.
Usage Features:
- Connectivity: The device offers a wide range of connectivity options including NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, USB, and (for XB-8000) WiFi. This allows integration with various marine electronics and personal devices.
- GPS: The XB-6000 has a built-in GPS antenna, while the XB-8000 requires an external GPS antenna for optimal performance. Both models require a GPS fix to transmit position data. It's crucial not to share an external GPS antenna with other devices.
- VHF Antenna: A dedicated VHF antenna or a Vesper Marine AIS/VHF Antenna Splitter is required. The antenna should be omnidirectional, well-tuned, and mounted at least 2-3 meters (6-10 feet) above the water surface, away from other VHF antennas or metal structures to avoid interference.
- Power and Data Cable: A 2m (6.5ft) cable with a 10-pin plug is supplied for power, NMEA 0183 connections, and an external switch/alarm. Power connections require a 2A fuse or circuit breaker and 16 AWG (1.5mm²) wire for extensions.
- Silent Mode: The device can be put into silent mode, which can be controlled via USB, WiFi (XB-8000), or an optional external switch. In silent mode, the transponder will not transmit its position.
- External Alarm: An optional external alarm can be connected, which can also be silenced via the WatchMate mobile apps.
- Configuration: The XB transponder can be configured using the WatchMate App* or the vmAIS PC/Mac software. This includes programming the vessel's MMSI number, which is essential for transmitting position.
- Status LED: A multi-color LED provides visual feedback on the device's operational status:
- Green (OK): Solid for normal operation, flashing for high antenna VSWR or high background noise on the AIS receiver.
- Orange (No Transmit): Solid for device initializing, silent mode, or waiting to transmit. Flashing indicates acquiring a GPS fix.
- Red (Error): Solid for built-in integrity test error or firmware update in progress.
- Data Output: Received data is output on WiFi (XB-8000), USB, and NMEA 0183.
- Firmware Updates: Vesper Marine releases downloadable updates to add new features and improve performance. Registration of the XB is recommended to receive notifications.
Maintenance Features:
- Troubleshooting: The status LED provides immediate visual cues for troubleshooting common issues such as initialization, MMSI not programmed, silent mode, lost position reports, GPS fix acquisition, high antenna VSWR, and background noise.
- Technical Support: In case of persistent errors or issues, users are advised to contact Vesper Marine's technical support team or visit their website for assistance.
- Software Tools: The vmAIS PC/Mac Configuration and Status software and the WatchMate mobile apps are crucial for monitoring the device's status, configuring settings, and checking GPS signal strength and VSWR levels.
- Physical Installation: Proper installation of the VHF and GPS antennas, along with secure power and data connections, is critical for reliable operation. The locking ring on the power/data cable should be fully engaged to ensure a watertight seal.
- Warranty: The device comes with a two-year warranty from the date of purchase, covering defects in materials or workmanship. The warranty is void if the unit is sealed and disassembled.
- Disposal: The device should not be disposed of with general waste but recycled according to local regulations for electronic waste.
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