AMEC PASO-350 User manual

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COPYRIGHT
The entire contents of this instruction manual, including any future updates, revisions, and modifications,
shall remain the property of AMEC at all times. Unauthorized copies or reproduction of this manual, either in
part or whole, in any form of print and electronic media, is prohibited. The contents herein can only be used
for the intended purpose of this manual.
DISCLAIMER
AMEC is devoted to publish and maintain this product manual. As we continue to improve our AIS products
to satisfy all customers’ needs, information in this document is subject to change without notice. AMEC
does not make any representations or warranties (implied or otherwise) regarding the accuracy and
completeness of this document and shall in no event be liable for any loss of profit or any commercial
damage, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other damage.
Contact us at:
Technical Support:
Sales & Marketing:
ALLTEK MARINE ELECTRONICS CO., LTD Version 1.02
5F, No. 37, Ji-Hu Road, Neihu District, Taipei, 11492, Taiwan
TEL: [phone]
FAX: [phone]
www.alltekmarine.com
(Your Local Dealer/Agent Warranty Stamp)

II
FOR USERS IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ONLY
WARNING: It is a violation of the rules of the Federal Communications Commission
to input an MMSI that has not been properly assigned to the end user, or to otherwise
input any inaccurate data in this device.
★The entry of static data into this device shall be performed by the vendor of the device or
by an appropriately qualified person in the business of installing marine communications
equipment on board vessels.
★Instructions on how to accurately enter and confirm static data in the device can be found
in Section 4 of this user manual.
The equipment said in this manual must only be used to which it was designed. Improper operation or
installation may cause damage to the equipment or injury to personnel. AMEC will not incur any liability
of equipment damage or personal injury due to improper use or installation of the equipment. It is
strongly recommended to read this manual and the following safety instructions before proceeding to
installation or operation.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK HAZARD.
Do not open the case of the equipment
Only qualified personnel could work on
the interior of the equipment.
WARNING
TURN OFF THE POWER IMMEDIATELY IF
WATER LEAKS INTO THE EQUIPMENT OR
OBJECT DROPS INTO THE EQUIPMENT.
Continue operating the equipment could cause
electrical shock or fire. Contact your nearest
distributor for service.
DO NOT DISASSEMBLE OR MODIFY THE
EQUIPMENT.
Improper disassemble or modification could
cause electrical shocks, fire, or personal injury.
AVOID OPERATING THE EQUIPMENT WITH
WET HANDS.
Electrical shocks could be resulted if operating
with wet hands.
WARNING
DO NOT PLACE ANY LIQUID-FILLED
CONTAINER ON TOP OF THE
EQUIPMENT.
Electrical shocks could be resulted if the
device is contaminated with liquid.
TURN OFF THE POWER IMMEDIATELY
IF THE EQUIPMENT IS EMMITTING
SMOKE OR FIRE.
Continue operating the equipment could
cause electrical shock or fire. Contact your
nearest distributor for service.
EVENTHOUGH THE EQUIPMENT IS
WATERPROOF, PLEASE AVOID DIRECT
CONTACT WITH RAIN OR SPLASHING
WATER.
Electrical shock or fire could be resulted if
water leaks into the equipment.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING!

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Table of Contents
I. COPYRIGHT & DISCLAIMER
II. WARNING & SAFETY INSTRUCTION
1INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................1
1.1 PASO-350 Overview.................................................................................................................1
1.2 PASO-350 Features..................................................................................................................1
1.3 About This Manual...................................................................................................................1
2INSTALLATION..........................................................................................................................2
2.1 General .....................................................................................................................................2
2.2 Installation Requirement Overview.........................................................................................2
2.2.1 Installation Material......................................................................................................2
2.2.1.1 Items in the Package...............................................................................................2
2.2.1.2 Recommended Tools...............................................................................................3
2.3 Installation Procedures ...........................................................................................................4
2.3.1 Step by Step Installation Instructions.........................................................................4
2.3.2 Connector Pin Definition and Wiring ..........................................................................4
2.3.2.1 LCT (local Craft Terminal) Connector......................................................................4
2.3.2.2 NMEA 0183 Connector............................................................................................4
2.3.2.3 ALARM Connector...................................................................................................4
2.3.3 Ground Terminal and Connection...............................................................................5
2.4 VHF Antenna Installation.........................................................................................................5
2.5 GPS Antenna Installation ........................................................................................................5
2.6 Antenna Cabling ......................................................................................................................5
2.7 Lightning Protection................................................................................................................6
2.8 PASO-350 External Connections............................................................................................6
2.9 AMEC AIS Repeater Manager Software Installation ..............................................................7

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3GET STARTED.........................................................................................................................11
3.1 Turing Power On / Off............................................................................................................11
3.2 Front Panel Indicators ...........................................................................................................11
4AMEC AIS Repeater Manager ................................................................................................13
4.1 General ...................................................................................................................................13
4.2 Tab 1: System Indication.......................................................................................................14
4.2.1 Block 1: ED Indicator & Testing Button....................................................................15
4.2.2 Block 2: Marquee Message........................................................................................15
4.2.3 Block 3: System Time ................................................................................................16
4.3 Tab 2: GPS Information .........................................................................................................16
4.3.1 Block 1: LED Indicator & Testing Button..................................................................16
4.3.2 Block 2: Marquee Message........................................................................................16
4.3.3 Block 3: Satellite Signal Strength..............................................................................16
4.4 Tab 3: Traffic Analysis...........................................................................................................17
4.4.1 Block 1 ........................................................................................................................17
4.4.2 Block 2 ........................................................................................................................17
4.4.3 Block 3 and Block 6....................................................................................................17
4.4.4 Block 4 ........................................................................................................................18
4.4.5 Block 5 ........................................................................................................................18
4.5 Tab 4: System Status.............................................................................................................18
4.5.1 General........................................................................................................................18
4.5.2 Processor Kernel........................................................................................................18
4.5.3 Interface......................................................................................................................18
4.5.4 Device ID.....................................................................................................................19
4.5.5 GPS Functionality.......................................................................................................19
4.5.6 System Status Tester.................................................................................................19
4.6 Tab 5: System Setup..............................................................................................................19
4.6.1 General Settings.........................................................................................................19
4.6.2 Transceiver Setting....................................................................................................20

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4.6.3 Message Filter ............................................................................................................21
4.6.4 About...........................................................................................................................22
5Appendix .................................................................................................................................23
5.1 Product Specification............................................................................................................23
5.2 Dimensions ............................................................................................................................25
5.3 Accessories (Optional)..........................................................................................................26
6AMEC WORLDWIDE WARRANTY..........................................................................................27
7DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY.........................................................................................28
8ABBREVIATIONS....................................................................................................................29

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1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 PASO-350 Overview
AMEC PASO-350 is a Simplex AIS Repeater. It complies with all the requirements and regulations imposed
by the international standard. As a repeater, PASO-350 extends AIS coverage and attempts to overcome
terrain obstacles that block AIS radio propagation. Within the AIS service network, PASO-350 is on the
same layer as AIS base stations. There is direct access to the VHF/RF domain equipments for reception
and transmission of AIS VDL messages.
The PASO-350 AIS Repeater doubles the VDL link load for AIS mobile stations and should only be used in
areas with relatively low AIS traffic density. If the installation site’s AIS traffic loading is very high, some VDL
message dropping could occur due to AIS repeater standards. It is recommended that the installation sites
for PASO-350 have less than 25% of the VDL link load.
1.2 PASO-350 Features
Provides a gap-filler at remote and isolated locations
During retransmission different timeslot is used, however messages are sent out on the same channel
where they were received.
Comply with international standards ensuring AIS system integrity
Synchronize on any AIS station that has direct UTC
Modularized structure
Clear indications for GPS and device status
Additional features for LED test, ACO (Alarm Cut Off) and LCT (Local Craft Terminal) for easy
maintenance operations
Relay contact for external alarm
1.3 About This Manual
The manual contains installation instructions and operating information for PASO-350. While most of the
installation can be performed by user, a final commissioning can be done by your local agent/dealer where
needed or required. AMEC and the local agent/dealer will not bear any responsibilities over any damages
resulted in improper installation by unauthorized agent/dealer.

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2 INSTALLATION
2.1 General
This section describes on-site PASO-350 installation and cable connections. PC or laptop is required for
configuration and future maintenance if necessary.
2.2 Installation Requirement Overview
Ensure that deployment site is well suited:
Ensure the environment is suitable for the installation and operation.
Site has lightning rod installed with proper grounding to avoid lightning strikes.
Site has a basic ventilated environment.
If necessary install cable ladders at the site when needed.
Standard 19-inch rack is installed for the repeater.
Site electrical installation is well completed and inspected.
Power source is installed and tested for +24V DC and/or 100~240 VAC.
The rack and the repeater are both grounded to minimize risks of lighting damages or accidents.
VHF and GPS Antenna systems are installed and tested. Both cables are equipped with gas-tube or
arrestor to avoid lightning strikes.
Cabling and sensors for external alarms are installed.
2.2.1 Installation Material
This section contains lists of hardware, tools and requirements for installation.
2.2.1.1 Items in the Package
PASO-350 package comes with the following items. If any item is missing, notify AMEC or your local dealer
immediately.
PASO-350 main unit
Power cable for 100~240V AC (1.8m)
One LCT Cable (1.2m)
CD-ROM with AMEC AIS Repeater Manager and the digital copy of this user manual
Frame grounding cable (1.5m; AWG#12)
M5 screws x 4

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2.2.1.2 Recommended Tools
The following tools may be required for the installation.
Tool
Description
Screwdriver
Knife
Plate shears
Cable cutter
Multi-meter

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2.3 Installation Procedures
2.3.1 Step by Step Installation Instructions
Please follow the steps below to install PASO-350.
1. Ensure the standard 19-inch rack is firmly fixed.
2. Position PASO-350 on the rack and aligning the holes on the brackets with the holes on the rack, and
then use the screws to mount PASO-350.
3. Connect 100 ~ 240V AC or +24V DC cable from battery bank to PASO-350’s power terminals.
4. Ensure the power terminals for 100 ~ 240V AC and/or +24V DC are proper fixed.
5. Connect LCT cable (from PASO-350 front panel) to laptop or PC to configure PASO-350.
2.3.2 Connector Pin Definition and Wiring
The wiring details of the LCT/ NMEA 0183/ ALARM connectors are listed below.
2.3.2.1 LCT (local Craft Terminal) Connector
Pin
Name
Function
2
Rx
LCT data receiver
3
Tx
LCT data transmitter
5
GND
Ground
2.3.2.2 NMEA 0183 Connector
Pin
Name
Function
1
RXP
Positive(＋); NMEA0183 Data input
2
RXN
Negative (－); NMEA0183 Data input
3
TXP
Positive(＋); NMEA0183 Data output
4
TXN
Negative (－); NMEA0183 Data output
2.3.2.3 ALARM Connector
Pin
Name
Function
1
ALM A
Alarm contact A
2
ALM B
Alarm contact B

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2.3.3 Ground Terminal and Connection
User the provided 1.4m ground cable and connect the end of lug to the ground terminal on PASO-350 and
other end to one of the protection grounds at rack. If the ground cable is too long, please cut it to a proper
length.
2.4 VHF Antenna Installation
The quality and positioning of the antenna is the most important factor dictating AIS performance. It is
recommended that a VHF antenna with omni directional vertical polarization be specifically tuned for AIS
operation band. Since the range of VHF signals is largely decided by line of sight distance, AIS antenna
should be placed as high as possible and at least 5 meters away from any constructions made of
conductive materials.
To avoid interference, the VHF antenna location should be placed in accordance to the figure below.
We recommend you choose AMEC AIS VHF antenna. To save space, you can also choose VHF/GPS
combo antenna provided by AMEC.
2.5 GPS Antenna Installation
The GPS antenna must be installed where it has a clear view of the sky, so that it accesses the horizon
freely through 360°, with a vertical observation of 5 to 90 degrees above the horizon.
We recommend you choose AMEC AIS GPS antenna. To save space, you can also choose VHF/GPS
combo antenna provided by AMEC.
2.6 Antenna Cabling
When connecting the PASO-350 with cables(s), take note of the following precautions.
Do not bend the cables (s).
Each coaxial cable should be setup separately and can only be setup in a single cable tube.
Each coaxial cable should keep a 10m safe distance with the power cable.
Connecting port of the coaxial cable should be insulated.
Ensure a free 360˚ horizon with a
vertical observation of 5˚.
5˚
VHF
Antenna
.
Other VHF
Antenna
10m
3m
The recommended horizontal
distance between GPS antennas
and other antennas is 3m.
Ensure the GPS antenna is not within
the transmitting beam of other high
power transmitting antenna.
The recommended
vertical distance
between antennas is
2m.
High power transmitting antenna
Other transmitting
antenna
The recommended
horizontal distance
between antennas
is 10m.

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2.7 Lightning Protection
For both VHF and GPS, lightning arrestors are required for both antenna cables. There are a lot of coaxial
arrestors available from various suppliers. It is required to specify applied frequency and the maximum
output when choosing lighting arrestors.
2.8 PASO-350 External Connections
ALARM
24V DC
100-240V AC GND Cable
GND
VHF Antenna
(Connector -M Jack)
ECS
Local Craft
Terminal
GPS Antenna
Fuse (10A)

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2.9 AMEC AIS Repeater Manager Software Installation
The AMEC AIS Repeater Manager provides users with AIS information on computer; users may browse the
relative positions of surrounding vessels and the dynamic and static information regulated by IMO. For
professional users or further details, we suggest connecting AMEC PASO-350 with other marine electronic
products such as ECS or Radar to achieve better performances. Please find the AMEC AIS Repeater
Manager in the CD-ROM we provided; and follow the steps below to install the program.
Please find the AMEC AIS Repeater Manager in the CD-ROM we provided; and follow the steps below to
install the program.
Step 1: Put the CD-ROM into your computer, and double click on .
Step 2: A welcome window will pop up. Please click to continue.

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Step 3: Please read and accept the license agreement before clicking on to continue.
Step 4: Please fill in the required user information and click on to continue.

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Step 5: Please choose a folder to install the application; and then click on to continue.
Step 6: Please click on to continue the installation.

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Step 7: The AMEC AIS Repeater Manager starts to install, please wait for it to finish.
Step 8: When the installation is completed, please click on to complete the
setting. And run the AMEC AIS Repeater Manager program.

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3 GET STARTED
3.1 Turing Power On / Off
TURNING POWER ON:
Step 1: Check the input voltage. PASO-350 input voltage is 100 ~ 240V AC or 24V DC.
Step 2: Connect the PASO-350 with power input(s).
Step 3: Press the circuit-break at rear panel to “ON”.
Then switch the power at front panel to “ON”.
Step 4: The green power status indicator (DC IN /AC IN) will turn to solid from flashing.
Step 5: When the power status indicator turns solid green, the unit functions normally and automatically.
The “Rx” channel indicator flashes once when receiving AIS message and the “Tx” channel
indicator flashes once when transmitting AIS message.
TURNING POWER OFF:
Step 1: Switch the power to “OFF”.
Step 2: The unit shuts down and the power status indicator turns off.
*NOTE1: PASO-350 uses 10A fuses. If a fuse was ever blown, unscrew the fuse cover at the rear side
of the repeater and replace the bad fuse.
3.2 Front Panel Indicators
Please see the table from below for the indicators description.

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LED
Indicators
Indications
Status
Description
Shape
Color
POWER
DC IN
Rectangle
Green
DC will turn active when the 24
DC voltage is higher than the
output voltage of AC adapter
(built in PASO-350)
AC IN
Rectangle
Green
AC will turn active when the
voltage from AC adapter (built in
PASO-350) is large or equal to
24 DC voltage
Power Switch
Rectangle
Orange
Main power switch for PASO-350
TESTING
BIIT (Built-In
Integration Test)
Rectangle
Red
LED will turn on when BIIT fails
UTCSync
Rectangle
Blue
LED will turn on when GPS fix
ACO (Alarm Cut Off)
Round
Red
LED will turn on when ACO
(switch) activates
ACO (switch)
Switch to cut off alarm signal
LED Test
Round
Green
LED will turn on when LED Test
(switch) activates
LED Test (switch)
All the LEDs at front panel will
turn on
CHANNEL
CHA_TX
Rectangle
Yellow
LED will flash when Channel A
transmits AIS signal
CHA_RX
Green
LED will flash when Channel A
receives AIS signal
CHB_TX
Yellow
LED will flash when Channel B
transmits AIS signal
CHB_RX
Green
LED will flash when Channel B
receives AIS signal

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4 AMEC AIS Repeater Manager
4.1 General
AMEC AIS Repeater Manager enables user to view system status and allows configuring PASO-350.
When you start AMEC AIS Repeater Manager, the Device Wizard window pops up and prompt for
connection setting. User can choose Auto or Manual Mode to connect AMEC AIS Repeater Manager and
the device.
*NOTE1: The PASO-350 can be connected later on by clicking the quick connect button at the
lower left corner on the main view.
*NOTE2: If the system is disconnected, functions in AMEC Repeater Manager are disabled.
When the Connect button is clicked, the “Config AIS Serial Port” window pops up and enables user to reset
the connection of the device. When the serial port cannot be identified in Auto Mode, click the Device
Wizard to set a proper system connection.
After entering the AMEC AIS Repeater Manager, user can access the five system tabs: System Indication,
GPS Information, Traffic Analysis, System Status, and System Setup.

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System Indication: User can check the operation status of the repeater. A marquee message will also
notify system status and channel loading messages.
GPS Information: GPS satellite messages will be shown in this tab.
Traffic Analysis: Data including channel loading and repeater performance will be shown in this tab.
User can also check the operating status of the channels in the dynamic slot map.
System Status: system status and operating status are listed in this tab.
System Setup: Functions for logging, message filtering and disabling the repeater can be found in this
tab.
4.2 Tab 1: System Indication
The System Indication Panel is divided to 3 blocks: LED Indicator, Testing Button, Marquee Message, and
System Time.
Block 2
Block 3Block 1