Many ports and maritime offices want the benefit of a local AIS feed to see shipping activity, ETAs and movements. Digital Yacht’s AISNet+ AIS base station is a low cost AIS receiver designed for just this application. Complete with a network port for connecting to local computer networks. Or alternatively for connecting to the internet for relaying of local signals to services. This could include Marine Traffic and other internet based AIS monitoring solutions. It also has a USB connection for a simple plug ‘n play connection to a local computer and ships with viewing software for Windows. The system also integrates well with popular coastal surveillance software such as MaxSea/Time Zero. It will overlay AIS information onto their charting and radar overlays.
There are now a large number of internet based web sites, which offer a view of AIS equipped vessels on a background chart. This will allow users to check the position and identity of ships and yachts. If your home/office is close to the coast you can also contribute your data to one of these sites, simply register with the company and they will give you an IP address and port number.
AISNet+ has a built in patented ZeroLoss VHF-AIS antenna splitter allowing an existing VHF antenna that may be installed on the building to be used for the AIS as well as VHF. Therefore greatly easing installation without the need to fit a 2nd antenna. Most ports and harbours will already have a VHF radio installation so this greatly simplifies the addition of AIS.