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.
Copying of this document, and giving it to others and the use or communication of the contents
thereof, are forbidden without express authority. Offenders are liable to the payment of damages.
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Toute communication ou reproduction de ce document, toute exploitation ou communication de son
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Sin nuestra expresa autorización, queda terminantemente prohibida la reproducción total o parcial de
este documento, así como su uso indebido y/o su exhibición o comunicación a terceros. De los
infractores se exigirá el correspondiente resarcimiento de daños y perjuicios.

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.

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 11 Y1-03-0243D
Power off and on the Portable AIS Unit.
Verify that White LED stays ON upon application of power (This indicates that it has
automatically connected to test PC and is ready to go).
Open Hyper terminal and connect via RS232 to Com 100, Verify ECDIS Data is present in
terminal window.
ECDIS Data example:
!AIVDO,1,1,,A,30T@opwP00JA194>r1000?w600W1,0*69
!AIVDM,1,1,,A,14VAw00000JA?CP>sd1d9UU<0<0g,0*76
!AIVDM,2,1,8,A,54T<DD02<B=10`e:2210iE@v222222222222221?C`U6F4E;0El3lU81EQDQ,0*49
!AIVDM,2,2,8,A,k0A1Dp88880,2*33
!AIVDM,1,1,,B,14hs`00001JABW>>u?CP6F9>0680,0*54
!AIVDM,1,1,,A,1819<UP000J@sOP>sDpP02W40D0>,0*7A
!AIVDO,1,1,,,30T@opwP00JA194>r1000?w80000,0*40
!AIVDM,1,1,,A,15MtS6PP01JA@Vh>s9@@t?w>08Ff,0*54
!AIVDM,1,1,,B,14hru20P00J@tK@>sD=ro?w@2680,0*45
!AIVDO,1,1,,,30T@opwP00JA194>r1000?w:0000,0*42
!AIVDO,1,1,,B,30T@opwP00JA194>r1000?w:00Ti,0*3D
!AIVDM,1,1,,A,403Owm0000Htt<tSF0l4Q@000d1H,0*05
$AIALR,170007,025,A,V,AIS: EXTERNAL EPFS LOST*02
$AIALR,170007,035,A,V,AIS: NO VALID ROT INFORMATION*68
$AIALR,170007,032,A,V,AIS: HEADING LOST INVALID*00
5.8 STEP 6: RS232 COM-Port Emulation
RS232 COM port emulation uses the COM port
redirector program. Ensure steps described in
prior sections have been fulfilled before
beginning the emulation process.
Open the COM Port redirector program. Select
Add New COM Port. Select an available open
COM port in the list and click OK.
Click on Search for devices. You should see the
IP address of your wireless device in the list.
Highlight your new COM port and click on the IP
address of your wireless device. This will link
your device to the emulated COM port. Select
Save.
To verify this you will see the IP addressed to COM 4 in the COM Port list window.
Your COM port is ready for use in your application
software.
If you are not a TCP/IP specialist contact your IT
department for help. The specific manuals for the
Device installer and COM port director programs
are on your CD for reference. This is intended as
a quick guide for novice users to get into the
wireless world.

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 12 Y1-03-0243D
5.9 Antennas
5.9.1 External VHF-Antenna
Always connect your VHF rubber duck antenna to the connector labeled VHF.
If another external VHF antenna is used, connect it to the same port. You will need to ensure your antenna
connection is converted to TNC Male to mate to the VHF antenna port. Ensure antenna is connected
before powering unit on.
5.9.2 Internal GPS antenna vs. external GPS antenna
The internal GPS antenna is connected by default. If an external GPS antenna is needed then the internal
connection needs to be disconnected. This connector is labeled and readily available when you open
the case. Open box and disconnect internal GPS connector from GPS connection tee.
5.9.3 Entering ship’s data
Set up your Portable AIS as described in the Operation section. The transponder is now ready to be
programmed with ship’s data. Place the switch in the ON position. To start the AIS see chapter 6.
Operation.
You must open the case and enter your MMSI and user information before the unit will transmit AIS
messages. Enter data through the internal keyboard and display system. Please refer to the SOLAS AIS
User Manual or Inland AIS User Manual for more information on this topic. Ensure all antennas and
connectors are attached.
CAUTION: Be sure to keep track of user passwords!
6 Operation
6.1 Readying for operation
Open the case and remove the VHF and Wi-Fi™ antennas. Install these antennas in the appropriate
connections on the side of the case.
EXTERNAL DC OPERATION (18-36Volts):
To operate the transponder from ship’s power or any external DC power source, attached DC power cable
to the unit’s power connector and attach leads of cable to a DC power source. Move the power supply
switch to the Ext DC Power position. Push the START SWITCH (momentary toggle switch) to the right for
powering on the unit. The red LED indicates the unit has powered on is ready for operation. The External
DC Operating Range is 18-36 Volts.
INTERNAL BATTERY OPERATION:
To operate transponder on the internal rechargeable battery, move the power supply switch to the Battery
Power position. Push the momentary toggle switch to the right for starting the AIS operation (hold for 1
second). The red LED indicates the unit is powered on. The yellow LED would indicate an empty battery
and switch off the AIS and recharge battery. You can see the yellow LED when you hold the momentary
toggle switch in position START.
NOTE: When red LED is active (steady state), the power is ON.
The yellow LED indicates a low battery. AIS is switched OFF automatically.

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 13 Y1-03-0243D
WARNING: Do not remove the waterproof caps without attaching cables or antennas. This will leave
the unit vulnerable and will potentially damage it if exposed to water. If the NAUTICAST™ Portable AIS is
not in use, leave waterproof caps on at all times.
6.2 Mounting strap
There is a strap to tie the unit down. Attach strap to secure unit in
its operating position.
6.3 Connector protection brace
The connector protection brace is intended to protect the
connection side of the unit.
CAUTION: The connector protection brace is not to be used as a handle.
6.4 LED explanation
Name
Color
Description
PWR
Red
Indicates that power has been applied to the device.
TX
Green
Indicates that a unit has transmitted an AIS message.
CHG
Yellow
Indicates that the battery needs to be charged or external DC voltage is too low.
RX
Blue
Indicates that the unit has received an AIS message.
WiFi
White
Indicates that the Wi-Fi™ is active and connected to your wireless PC.

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 14 Y1-03-0243D
7 Support, Warranty, and Notices
7.1 Support
Contact your local dealer for NAUTICAST™support. Please see our ACR Website for Service Listing.
ACR Electronics Europe GmbH
Technical Support
Handelskai 388 / Top 632
A-1020 Vienna, Austria
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.acr-europe.com
ACR Electronics, Inc.
Technical Service
5757 Ravenswood Road
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312, USA
Tel.: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web: www.acrelectronics.com
Limited Warranty
This product is warranted against factory defects in material and workmanship for a period of 1 (one) year* from
date of purchase or receipt as a gift. During the warranty period ACR Electronics, Inc. will repair or, at its option,
replace the unit at no cost to you for labor, materials and return transportation from ACR. For further assistance,
please contact our Technical Service Department at ACR Electronics, Inc., 5757 Ravenswood Road, Fort
Lauderdale, FL 33312-6645. Email: [e-mail], Fax: [phone], Telephone: +1 (954)
981- 3333.
This warranty does not apply if the product has been damaged by accident or misuse, or as a result of service or
modification performed by an unauthorized factory. Except as otherwise expressly stated in the previous
paragraph, THE COMPANY MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, AS TO MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY OTHER MATTER
WITH RESPECT TO THIS PRODUCT. The Company shall not be liable for consequential or special damages.
To place the warranty in effect, register online at www.acrelectronics.com or return the attached card within 10
days.
*Five years for the following products: EPIRB, PLB, S-VDR, SSAS
Other Notices
ACR Electronics diligently works to provide a high quality Product Support Manual, however, despite best
efforts, information is subject to change without notice, and omissions and inaccuracies are possible. ACR
cannot accept liability for manual contents. To ensure that you have the most recent version of the Product
Support Manual, please visit the ACR website at www.acrelectronics.com.
In accordance with a policy of continual development and product improvement the NAUTICAST™ hardware
and software may be upgraded from time to time and future versions of the NAUTICAST™ may therefore not
correspond exactly with this manual. When necessary, upgrades to the product will be accompanied by updates
or addendums to this manual.
©2009 by ACR Electronics, Inc., part of Cobham plc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is
permitted only with permission of ACR Electronics, Inc. Ongoing product improvements may change product
specifications without notice.
This software may use components and source code developed by other companies or groups.
Copyrights, trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Portable AIS Manual Addendum 15 Y1-03-0243D
7.2 Appendix: Drawings