What is AIS?
AIS (Automatic Identification System) is the name given to a system that allows ships to identify other ships and ship movements at sea. The AIS system provides more information than traditional radar such as name, call sign, IMO number and MMSI.
Why was it introduced?
AIS was introduced to enhance safety at sea, improve efficiency in navigation and protect marine environments. The AIS data is transmitted in three strands, static, dynamic and voyage-related. Static data is the information programmed into the ship’s transponder at installation, this only needs to be changed if the ship undergoes a change in name, flag or ship size after a major reconstruction. Dynamic data is information updated both automatically and manually by the ship’s sensors and crew and pertains to gyro, position and speed data. Voyage-related data can be altered manually when required and can relate to information such as navigational status.
What range does an antenna typically cover?
Under normal atmospheric conditions and without obstructions such as hills, buildings, etc about 25 nautical miles.
What data is transmitted?
Vessel registration, dimension, position and voyage-related data. How is data collected and displayed? By terrestrial and satellite receivers and sent via internet to our servers, which allow us to display in our Maritime Portal – AISLive.
Check if your area or business location is suitable for becoming a station host:
Location criteria:
- A coastal location with a clear line of sight to the port/sea area to be monitored
- Antenna height should be as high as possible to ensure maximum detection range, a minimum of 10m above sea-level is recommended
- Continuous 24/7 power supply
- Reliable 24/7 broadband connection
- A 24/7 AIS contact that can attend to the hardware in the event of loss of connection or data-flow
Please contact one of the team to talk to an AIS specialist for more information on specific locations we are looking to further enhance coverage.
Contact us
Yannick Cambridge-Reid, AIS Network Manager +44 (0)20 3253 2489
S&P Global AIS Equipment and Installation
AIS Equipment:
- Cardioid Dipole Array Antenna, surge protector and co-axial cable
- Comar SLR-350N receiver and power supply
- Network cable
Installation steps:
- Erect antenna ideally at least 30m above sea-level with surge protector and co-axial cable
- Connect co-axial cable to Comar receiver
- Connect network cable to receiver and router/switch
- Connect power cable to Comar and to power source
- If required, configure receiver in your network
Installation Guide
Our Station Monitor System shows connection, data flow and throughput from our station partners and allows both hosts and our AIS support team to check and monitor network connectivity.
Station Connectivity Requirements:
- Connected to internet 24/7
- Reliable power source
- Uninterrupted view of line of sight
For more information please contact our Strategic Sourcing Team.
