AIS technology for more boats than ever with new product

by Des Ryan on 8 Oct 2013 It's good news that AIS technology might be accessible to more vessels than ever before with the launch of the Smartfind M10 AIS Class B Transponder - it's compact, it's high performing, and, most important, it's a comparatively low cost safety product.

McMurdo, high-technology group specialised in precise positioning, navigation and timing, has announced that the new Smartfind M10 AIS Class B Transponder is now available, following its preview at METS 2012 in Amsterdam.

This simple to use Class B Transponder represents the next generation of AIS Class B the compact, high performance safety product is designed to benefit both the leisure and commercial market.

The device is perfect for smaller non SOLAS vessels, where the complexity of a Class A Transponder is not necessary. It transmits vessel position information as well as receiving all AIS targets within 20 miles of the boat, typical.

Using the built-in GPS receiver, the Smartfind M10 determines position, speed and course, and once this is combined with other navigational information, it is automatically transmitted without any user interaction. When received by other vessels and coast stations, the data built up to provide a live graphical display of traffic in the area.

Engineered for easy integration with navigation systems, the Smartfind M10 supports NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 output, meets IEC 62287 and related standards, and features an optional WiFi interface as well as USB connectivity.

Benefitting from an SD card slot, the Smartfind M10, can be quickly and easily used as a data recorder, enabling the capture of all messages - to assist in system and safety monitoring, including incident investigation. Recorded data is logged and stored. The ‘Silent’ option, allows the user to temporarily stop the broadcast of identifying information on occasions where either privacy or security is required.

Key features include :
High performance AIS Class B transponder
Dual-channel AIS receiver with DSC
NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 connectivity
Mini USB-B socket
SD data logger card slot
Built in high-sensitivity GPS receiver with GPS antenna included
Optional silent mode (suspend AIS transmission)
Compact and stylish design
Low power consumption, 12 to 24V DC power supply
Supplied with AIS Viewer and Configuration software for PC

The Smartfind M10 AIS Class B Transponder is available worldwide through McMurdo’s network of internationally based distributors. McMurdo also provides AIS installation and training courses through its service and support division.

More information:

For Australians, if your local marine supplier is unable to answer your questions please refer to the distributor:

AMI Marine, 107 Forsyth Street Perth
www.amisales.com.au wa@amisales.com.au 00 61 8 9331 0000

For New Zealanders, your distributor is:

Bright Ideas Ltd., Unit 1, 17 - 23 Sweetcorn Place Pukekohe Papakura
www.brightideas.co.nz alan@brightideas.co.nz 0800 713 656