Navigation: AIS transponder with Wi-Fi brings real-time data to the tablet
Hauke Schmidt
· 08.03.2020
If you are navigating with a tablet and want to use AIS data, you can use internet-based systems such as Marine traffic to fall back on. However, their data is not transmitted in real time, which means that the fast ferry you have just located may already be somewhere completely different from where it is shown on the map. In addition, the online data cannot usually be integrated directly into the sat nav apps. The iAISTX from Digital Yacht is designed to solve this problem. It is a fully-fledged Class B AIS transponder with its own GPS receiver. In the basic version, it provides the received ship data via Wi-Fi and is compatible with common navigation apps such as Navionics, iNavX, NavLink, Time Zero, Weather 4G, SailGrib, Open CPN and iRegatta.
The iAISTX works either in client mode in an existing Wi-Fi network or as a hotspot if no other devices are on board. Configuration is carried out via the integrated web interface using a browser. No special apps are required.
The Plus version also has an NMEA2000 interface so that plotters that cannot process AIS data via WLAN can also be connected.
The iAISTX will cost 630 euros, the Plus version is available for 780 euros. Both devices require their own FM aerial or a suitable splitter.
Further information can be found at: www.digital-yacht.de
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Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
