Advanced AIS Technology for Small Boats

The Digital Yacht AIT1500 Class B AIS Transponder is a cutting-edge marine navigation device designed for small boats, offering advanced AIS technology to enhance safety and situational awareness on the water. Engineered with the same technology found in Digital Yacht’s AIT2000 and AIT3000 models, this transponder ensures reliable AIS data transmission and reception.

With its ultra-compact black box design, the AIT1500 is easy to install and integrates seamlessly with existing navigation systems. It is equipped with an internal GPS antenna, making it ideal for fiberglass (GRP) hulled vessels where external antennas may not be necessary. This transponder is a practical and efficient solution for boaters looking to upgrade their navigation systems with a high-performance AIS transponder.

High-Performance GPS and Connectivity

The AIT1500 features a built-in high-performance 50-channel GPS receiver, providing accurate positioning and serving as an excellent backup GPS. It includes a USB interface for direct connection to a PC or Mac, allowing for easy plug-and-play installation and seamless integration with navigation software.

With high-speed NMEA 0183 output (38,400 baud), this AIS transponder is fully compatible with industry-standard chart plotters, including models from Garmin, Raymarine, Navico, Standard Horizon, and Furuno. Additionally, a low-speed NMEA input (4,800 baud) is available for multiplexing additional NMEA 0183 data, enhancing the unit’s versatility.

Flexible Installation and Compatibility

Designed for ease of installation, the AIT1500 comes in a rugged ABS plastic enclosure that protects it from harsh marine conditions. It supports a remote silence switch option for added convenience and requires either a dedicated AIS antenna or a VHF antenna (via an optional splitter) to function effectively.

For optimal AIS performance, particularly on sailing yachts, Digital Yacht recommends the SPL1500 Splitter, which features “Zero Loss” technology. This allows boaters to use their existing VHF antenna at the mast’s top, maximizing AIS reception range. When properly installed, the AIT1500 can receive AIS targets up to 30 nautical miles away, improving navigational awareness and safety at sea.

Key Features

• Compact Class B AIS transponder for small boats
• Internal GPS antenna for simple installation on fiberglass hulls
• High-performance 50-channel GPS receiver for accurate positioning
• USB interface for easy PC and Mac connectivity
• High-speed NMEA 0183 output (38,400 baud) for seamless chart plotter integration
• Low-speed NMEA input (4,800 baud) for multiplexing additional data
• Supports remote silence switch for enhanced user control
• Compatible with major navigation brands, including Garmin, Raymarine, and Furuno
• Requires a VHF or dedicated AIS antenna for operation (splitter available separately)

Additional Considerations

AIS target range, like VHF communication range, is influenced by factors such as antenna gain, height, and ground plane size. When installed under optimal conditions, the AIT1500 can achieve reception distances exceeding 20 nautical miles, ensuring reliable performance for maritime navigation.