ACR Electronics NAUTICAST 2645 Installation and operating instructions

PRODUCT SUPPORT MANUAL ADDENDUM
NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS (SOLAS and Inland AIS) //
Automatic Identification System
Product No.: 2645 (Inland), 2657 (SOLAS)
Y1-03-0243 Rev.D

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 2 Y1-03-0243D
Please read this first!
Warning:
Although ACR strives for accuracy in all its publications; this material may contain errors or omissions,
and is subject to change without prior notice. ACR shall not be made liable for any specific, indirect,
incidental or consequential damages as a result of its use. ACR components may only be used in
safety of life devices or systems, with the express written approval of ACR, as the failure of such
components could cause the failure of the ACR device or system. If these fail, it is reasonable to
assume that the safety of the user or other persons may be endangered.
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Portable AIS Manual Addendum 3 Y1-03-0243D
1Introduction 5
2Unpacking the Portable AIS .................................................................................................5
2.1 Options................................................................................................................................... 6
2.2 External connections ............................................................................................................... 6
3First steps............................................................................................................................7
3.1 Pre-charging............................................................................................................................ 7
3.2 Initial configuration................................................................................................................. 7
4Power Supply / Charging .....................................................................................................7
4.1 Portable AIS power switch functions........................................................................................ 7
4.2 Charging the Internal Battery................................................................................................... 7
4.3 Operating from Ship’s DC Power (18 – 36V).............................................................................. 8
4.4 Optional External Power Supply............................................................................................... 8
5Installation..........................................................................................................................8
5.1 USB adapter ............................................................................................................................ 8
5.2 Wi-Fi™ remote AIS connection................................................................................................. 8
5.3 STEP 1: Load Wi-Fi™ Module support software......................................................................... 8
5.4 STEP 2: Enable and connect to the wireless device ................................................................... 9
5.5 STEP 3: Identify your new IP address........................................................................................ 9
5.6 STEP 4: Assign a TCP/IP Address............................................................................................. 10
5.7 Step 5: Setting up Wi-Fi™....................................................................................................... 10
5.8 STEP 6: RS232 COM-Port Emulation ....................................................................................... 11
5.9 Antennas .............................................................................................................................. 12
5.9.1 External VHF-Antenna ..........................................................................................................................12
5.9.2 Internal GPS antenna vs. external GPS antenna....................................................................................12
5.9.3 Entering ship’s data ..............................................................................................................................12
6Operation..........................................................................................................................12
6.1 Readying for operation.......................................................................................................... 12
6.2 Mounting strap ..................................................................................................................... 13
6.3 Connector protection brace ................................................................................................... 13
6.4 LED explanation .................................................................................................................... 13
7Support, Warranty, and Notices.........................................................................................14
7.1 Support................................................................................................................................. 14
7.2 Appendix: Drawings .............................................................................................................. 15
NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS Product Support Manual Addendum
Index Page Number

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 4 Y1-03-0243D
History of Changes
Date
Version
Rev.
Status
Comments
Responsible
2009-09-15
1.0.0
A
Draft
Initial Draft
B. Cox
2009-09-16
1.0.1
A
Draft
Working Draft
A. Lesch
2009-10-01
1.0.2
A
Draft
Update
J. Lynam
2009-10-02
1.0.3
A
Draft
Update
A. Lesch
2009-10-02
1.0.4
A
Released
Formatting
A. Lesch
2010-02-09
1.0.5
B
Released
Update battery charging instructions
and Wi-Fi™set up
J. Severson
2010-02-24
1.0.6
C
Released
New AIS start procedure
B.Werner, B.Cox
2011-10-10
1.0.7
D
Released
Update Warranty and Service Info
C. Wahler
History of Software Versions
This revision of the manual is valid for the software version (s) below stated and future versions unless
otherwise noted (ref.: www.acrelectronics.com / www.acr-europe.com).
Date
AIS Software
Version
Status
Comments
Responsible
2010-02-24
2.0.S116.XN04
Released
New GPS Module. New way to store
ship dimensions
A. Lesch
2010-02-24
2.0.S121.XN04
Released
New TX and RX LED (Inland AIS)
A. Lesch

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 5 Y1-03-0243D
1 Introduction
The NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS is the right solution for your fully autonomous AIS needs. This
transponder is compliant for Inland and SOLAS applications. With a fully charged internal battery, the
portable system can operate for 4 to 5 hours or indefinitely when connected to ship’s power. Interfacing
with ship’s sensors and ECDIS displays is made easy with external case mounted ports and optional
cables. Built in Wi-Fi™ allows for communication with PC ECS software.
The NAUTICAST™Portable AIS improves shipboard safety by providing information about AIS traffic that
RADAR alone cannot. AIS target name, vessel type, MMSI, position, COG, SOG, to name a few, are
available to ship’s helmsmen on an innovative 3 in 1 display. Choose from Alphanumeric, RADAR, or
Fairway views to display surrounding traffic and their ships’data. Selectable range zoom functions along
with target sorting provide customizable views of surrounding traffic.
The ACR NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS transponder fully complies with the technical specifications for the
Universal Automatic Identification System (UAIS) transponder issued by the International Maritime
Organization (IMO). The NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS makes a significant contribution to maritime
situational awareness.
The NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS is designed for situations where a fixed installation is not required or
practical. This is the perfect solution for mandatory short term carriage compliance or Bridge and Lock
tenders. The hard case can withstand the rigors of the marine environment as well as multiple
deployments. Corrosion resistant IP67 rated connectors enhance the system reliability and connectivity.
This unit is capable of being set up and running within minutes by installing VHF and Wi-Fi™antennas,
supplying power to the transponder and programming the ship’s static data.
Please read all instructions before placing the NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS into service. This
addendum only addresses the Portable AIS case connections and operation. Programming,
interfacing and operation instructions are contained in the Product Support Manual.
2 Unpacking the Portable AIS
The Portable AIS is shipped complete with
the following items:
Built into the floating waterproof housing are
the NAUTICAST™ AIS transponder, GPS
antenna, 24V NiMH rechargeable battery
pack, 24V DC power supply, and a 110V to
240V battery charger.
Stored inside the lid is an 8 inch VHF
antenna and a 4 inch Wi-Fi™ antenna. Also
stored inside the lid are
the Product Support Manual, documentation
CD ROM and this Addendum to the Product
Support Manual. Included but not in the case
are the external 24V power supply cable and
an external 110V to 240V AC cable for
battery charging.
VHF Antenna
WiFi™ Antenna
Internal/External
GPS Antenna
Connection
Fuse Holder
Figure 1

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 6 Y1-03-0243D
2.1 Options
For complex installation situations, the following additional accessories are available as options:
ACR Part Number
Accessory
2639
Secondary remote GPS antenna with 16.4 ft (5m) cable. For use when built-
in antenna will not acquire GPS data due to location
2647
GPS extension cable, 66.6 ft (20m)
2628
Secondary remote VHF antenna with 16.4 ft (5m) cable. For use when
additional range is required
2649
Secondary VHF adapter cable (TNC male-to-SO 239). Required with P/N
2628
2653
RS232 Serial Port male-to-USB adapter. For use when transponder is to be
interfaced with a PC running compatible Electronic Charting Software and the
PC is not WI-FI capable
2654
RS232 Serial cable extension 16.4 ft (5m)
2655
External AC-to-DC power supply. Dry environment only. For use when the
Transponder will not be used on board vessels
2656
External DC power cable, 32.8 ft (10m)
2.2 External connections

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 7 Y1-03-0243D
3 First steps
3.1 Pre-charging
NOTE: Prior to charging your Portable AIS, place the power mode switch in the OFF position and
remove the fuse from plastic bag that is taped to the top cover inside the portable AIS case.
Remove the fuse cap cover as illustrated in Figure 1, page 5 and insert into the fuse holder and
place the fuse holder cap back in place.
CAUTION: Prior to placing your Portable AIS into service, charge the internal batteries for a minimum
of 5 hours. Ensure that the switch is in the “OFF”position when charging. See charging instructions below.
3.2 Initial configuration
To configure the NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS for the first time, open the unit and follow the steps defined in
the Installation Manual (included with purchase). After initial configuration, you may configure the device
over the Wi-Fi™port (see later section in this manual). To start the power for the AIS see chapter. 6.
Operation.
4 Power Supply / Charging
4.1 Portable AIS power switch functions
The Switch on the Portable AIS enables three different functions:
UP position is to supply power to the transponder from the internal battery. This position is to apply
power to the Start switch to power on the unit. Note the Start switch is momentary switch hold on for 1
second and release.
DOWN position is to supply power to the transponder from an external 24V DC power source
CENTER position is to remove power from the transponder and allow for the charging of the internal
battery.
Although battery can be charged while the transponder is on, optimum charging conditions result when
the transponder is powered off.
4.2 Charging the Internal Battery
To properly charge the 24V NiMH internal battery:
Only charge the battery in a dry environment
Confirm that the power switch is in the center OFF position
Confirm that power source wall socket is 100-240V AC, 50-60Hz
Attach the 110V to 240V AC cable first to the battery charger input socket and then to a wall socket
Allow unit to charge for 4 to 5 hours before putting back into service
Transponder operational life on battery power is 4 to 5 hours.
The transponder is protected by an 8 amp, AGC style fuse, between the battery and the transponder.
To access the fuse for replacement, lift the lid on the waterproof housing and unscrew the fuse holder.
AIS
Power
Supply
Wall
Socket

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 8 Y1-03-0243D
4.3 Operating from Ship’s DC Power (18 –36V)
To properly power the transponder from ships power:
Confirm that the power switch is in the center OFF position
Confirm that power source is active
Attach the DC Power Cable to ships DC power supply and then to the External DC Input socket
Move the power switch to the Down position for External DC Power
Red LED should light
NOTE: When the battery is low the AIS switches off automatically. By holding the momentary toggle switch
in position START, you will see the yellow LED as an indication for a low battery. Battery must be charged
now! AIS cannot be used!
4.4 Optional External Power Supply
To properly power the transponder from an AC/DC power supply:
Only use an AC/DC power supply in a dry environment
Confirm that the power switch is in the center OFF position
Confirm that power source wall socket is 100-240V AC, 50-60Hz
Confirm that the power supply is 100-240V AC input and 24V DC and at least 8.3 amps output
Attach the DC Power Cable to 24v power supply and then to the External DC Input socket
Plug the power supply in to a wall socket
Move the power switch to the Down position for External DC Power
Red LED should light
5 Installation
The data from the transponder can be displayed on a shipboard ECDIS or a PC running AIS-capable ECS
software. The optional RS232 serial port-to-USB adapter and serial port extension cable are linked to the
ECDIS port to transfer data. Follow the instructions and download the software included with the adapter
for connectivity.
PCs with Wi-Fi™ capability can load the software included on the CD-ROM and communicate wirelessly
with the transponder. Follow the directions below.
5.1 USB adapter
Your Portable AIS comes with an RS232-to-USB data converter. Load the drivers from the included CD for
your USB adapter prior to plugging in your adapter to your PC. After installing your device, plug in your
adapter to your PC and connect the serial connector to the USB adapter. Find which COM port your PC
(Control Panel/Hardware/device manager/COM ports) assigned to your USB adapter and choose this
COM port.
5.2 Wi-Fi™ remote AIS connection
Wi-Fi™ remote AIS application connection instructions:
Lantronix Matchport bg
Direct connect to your laptop/PC.
5.3 STEP 1: Load Wi-Fi™ Module support software
NOTE: You need to have administrative privileges for your PC to configure this wireless device.
Load Wi-Fi™ Module support software (CDs included in purchase). Software programs are available from
the web as well.
For reference, the versions are:
Device Installer version 4.2.0.3
COM Port redirector version 4.2.0.1

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 9 Y1-03-0243D
Software type
Location on web
Device Installer
http://www.lantronix.com/device-networking/utilities-tools/device-installer.html
COM Port redirector
http://www.lantronix.com/device-networking/utilities-tools/com-port-
redirector.html
5.4 STEP 2: Enable and connect to the wireless device
Power on your wireless device.
Then re-boot your PC.
Ensure your wireless port is enabled. Most laptops
will default to OFF when under battery power or if
not in use for long periods of time.
Go to Network Connection: Select LTRX_IBSS
network from your wireless connection list and
click connect.
When you click on connectivity it may take a few
minutes for the device to timeout from trying to
acquire a new default IP address. Please wait until
it is connected.
If this device is not present in your wireless
connectivity list verify wireless radio is enabled on
your PC and verify wireless device is powered on
(LEDs on).
NOTE: When you do this, your PC will reassign a new IP address/gateway to your computer.
5.5 STEP 3: Identify your new IP address
Using Windows® program
Command Prompt® (DOS window),
type in “IPCONFIG”.
Press ENTER. This will show you
the newly assigned IP address.
Record this information.
WARNING: Your Wi-Fi™ module serial port comes configured and ready to use after you make the
connection and assign a COM port to use with the software tools,

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 10 Y1-03-0243D
5.6 STEP 4: Assign a TCP/IP Address
Assign TCP/IP Address to your Wi-Fi™ device to match your PC.
Open device installer program. Search for device. Software will automatically find Matchport wireless
device and display it in the directory tree.
NOTE: If the Matchport Wi-Fi™ device is not found, please open and close the program and try again. If
you opened the program before the link was established, it will not find the module during the search
routine.
Highlight the Mac address of the
device and click on ASSIGN IP. Select
Assign Specific Address. This will
keep the connection the same every
time you power the unit OFF and ON.
Assign a number that matches your
PC’s new IP address.
EXAMPLE: (From IPCONFIG data)
Auto configuration IP address
169.254.192.95
Set IP address to 169.254.192.035
Assign and verify change in device
installer window. If the first nine
numbers do not match, the device will
not connect. This depends on the
subnet mask settings and nine numbers is not always needed. Verify subnet mask if you want to lower the
key to six numbers.
NOTE: If you do not assign a specific address to the device the IP address of the wireless device will
change every time you power the unit OFF and ON. Setting the IP address with Device installer-
SPECIFIC software will prevent the IP address from changing. If needed you can always go back and
repeat this procedure to re-link your PC to the device.
5.7 Step 5: Setting up Wi-Fi™
Channel 1 serial settings of the Wi-Fi™ device for RS232 communications to the AIS unit.
Using the Web Configuration Tab verify the Channel is set as below and press Ok.
This will store the variables into the module.