Navico Class B Transceiver NAIS-300 User manual

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MANUAL
NAVICO NAIS-300
Class B Transceiver
English

2 Contents
The technical data, information and illustrations contained in this publication were to the best of
our knowledge correct at the time of going to print. We reserve the right to change specications,
equipment, installation and maintenance instructions without notice as part of our policy of
continuous development and improvement.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any
form, electronic or otherwise, without prior permission from Navico AS.
No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in the publication, although every
care has been taken to make it as complete and accurate as possible.
© 2007 Navico AS
Iss.1.0 DEC 07 WP

Contents 3
Contents
1 Introduction 5
1.1 General overview 5
1.2 SimNet/NMEA2000 6
2 Installation 7
2.1 General 7
2.2 Mounting 7
2.3 Cabling 8
2.4 SimNet/NMEA2000 cable 9
SimNet (300-N model only) 9
NMEA2000 (300-L model only) 10
2.5 NMEA0183-HS (RS232) 10
2.6 NMEA0183-HS (RS485) 10
2.7 Transmit disable switch 10
2.8 GPS antenna 10
2.9 VHF antenna 11
3 Conguration 15
3.1 General 15
3.2 Connecting to a computer 15
4 Operation 17
4.1 General 17
4.2 Indicators 17
PWR 17
BIIT (Built In Integrity Test) 17
TX 18

4 Contents
RX 18
4.3 Enable/disable switch (Silent Mode) 18
5 Appendix 19
5.1 Maintenance 19
5.2 Troubleshooting 19
5.3 Accessories 19
5.4 Product specications 20
5.5 Dimensions 22
5.6 Service and warranty 22
5.7 Declaration of Conformity (EU) 23

Introduction 5
1 Introduction
1.1 General overview
The NAIS-300 is a Class B Transponder that’s purpose is
to transmit the position and other information about your
vessel, to other AIS equipped vessels. It is housed in a
rugged waterproof enclosure to withstand the rigors of
the marine environment.
The NAIS-300 uses a sophisticated automatic digital time
sharing technology which enables the exchange of static
information like; MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identifier)
Number, Vessel’s Name, Call Sign and Type. Also dynamic
data like; Position, Course, Distance and more, from ship
to ship, and from ship to shore based traffic stations.
When connected to a compatible chart plotter, it will
provide a representation of the position and movements
of all AIS equipped vessels within VHF range
The advantages of the NAIS-300 are:
Increased awareness of the current shipping
situation within your VHF range through the
exchange of data between vessels.
Improving traffic management in busy shipping
lanes through exchanging information between
vessels and shore based traffic stations.
Reporting information automatically in shipping
areas where it is mandatory.
As with all electronic navigational equipment, it is
only an aid to navigation and should not be used as
a substitute for good seamanship.
Remember - Maritime law requires that you keep a
good lookout at all times.
•
•
•

6 Introduction
1.2 SimNet/NMEA2000
SimNet is Navico’s proprietary high speed data bus
network compatible with NMEA2000. It provides
intelligent sharing of data and control information
between a wide range of marine electronics and
instruments.

Installation 7
2 Installation
2.1 General
The NAIS-300 is designed to be mounted on a flat surface
somewhere out of sight, but easily accessible. However,
to determine the best possible location, you need to
consider how and where, you are going to run the cabling
from the sides of the unit.
The NAIS-300 is very simple to install, however, the
performance of the equipment is directly affected by the
quality of the installation. Please read these instructions
carefully before attempting installation. If in any doubt,
consult a qualied marine electronics engineer.
2.2 Mounting
The transceiver requires a at surface with a minimum
area of at least 210mm x 130mm (8.3in x 5.1in) for
mounting, with an overall area of 210mm x 250mm (8.6in
x 9.8in) to allow for cables.
The surface should be rigid and sturdy enough to be able
to support the weight of the unit, taking into account the
shock loads likely to be encountered when the vessel is
under way in heavy seas.
Hold the unit against the surface where it is to be
mounted, and mark the position of the four holes
with a pencil.
Drill a 3.7mm (.145in) hole on each corner mark.
Align the holes on the NAIS-300 with those you
have just drilled, and fasten with the 4 - No.8 x 3/4
self tapping screws supplied.
1
2
3

8 Installation
2.3 Cabling
Once you have secured your NAIS-300 to a flat surface,
you will need to connect the power, SimNet/NMEA2000
and RS232 cables supplied with the unit. The RS485 cable
and switch are not supplied, but would be fitted in the
same manner.
With reference to the connector wiring, Figure 2.1 and the
assembly diagram, Figure. 2.2, wire your unit as follows:
Figure 2.1 - Connector wiring
+12vdc
0v.
NMEA0183-HS
(RS485)
Out +ve
Out -ve
In -ve
In +ve
NMEA0183-HS
(RS232)
Out -ve
Gnd.
In +ve
Switch +
Switch -
Power









External Switch



SimNet/NMEA2000
Connector
NAIS-300 Case
Power
Connector
NMEA0183-2 & Switch
Connector
Grommet
Nipples
SimNet/NMEA2000
Socket Splash
Cover
Clamp
Retaining Screws
Figure 2.2 - NAIS-300 assembly

Installation 9
Choose the nipples directly above the parts of the
connector you want to wire into and cut off the top
section to the required diameter.
Pass the power and RS232 cables through the cradle
and then through the hole in the respective nipple.
Bare the ends of the cables and wire into the
correct section of the connector.
Once you have wired the two connectors, rmly
push them into their mating part in the main unit.
Slide the grommet down the cable until it is seated
on the main housing. Make sure that there is a little
excess cable beneath it, ensuring that the cable is
not pulled tight.
Place the clamp over the grommet and screw down
with the two screws supplied.
Make a small loop from the cables and cable tie
them down to the tongue of the clamp.
2.4 SimNet/NMEA2000 cable (supplied)
The NAIS-300 is connected to the SimNet/NMEA2000
databus using the cable supplied. Pull the splash cover off
of the SimNet/NMEA2000 socket, ensure the connector on
the end of the cable is in the correct orientation and press
firmly into the socket.
SimNet (300-N model only)
With the supplied cable connected to the NAIS-300,
connect the other end into the vessels SimNet network.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
Figure 2.3 - NAIS-300 showing
finished wiring assembly

10 Installation
NMEA2000 (300-L model only)
With the supplied cable connected to the NAIS-300,
connect the other end into the supplied T-connector, then
connect this into the vessels NMEA2000 network.
2.5 NMEA0183-HS (RS232 supplied)
This data cable is used to connect the NAIS-300 to a PC
or laptop in order to congure it, and for AIS enabled PC
chartplotter applications. For further information regarding
the wiring of this cable please refer to chapter 3.2
2.6 NMEA0183-HS (RS485 not supplied)
This data cable is used for connectivity to AIS enabled
chart plotters and other marine equipment with an
NMEA0183-HS interface. For wiring information, refer to
Figure 2.1.
(NMEA0183-HS is specied at 38.4kbaud and is not
compatible with conventional NMEA0183, which operates
at the lower speed of 4800baud)
2.7 Transmit disable switch (not supplied)
Any momentary action, push to make switch can be used.
Take a wire from each terminal of the switch and wire
them into the connector. Refer to figure 2.1. Because
there is negligible current drawn through this cable, any
suitable two core cable will do, providing it forms a good
seal once inserted in the grommet. Refer to section 4.3.
2.8 GPS antenna
The antenna, ideally needs to be mounted as low
as possible with a clear view of the sky to minimise
errors due to movement over and above the transitory
movement of the vessel.
The GPS antenna is capable of being flush mounted on
a suitable flat area of the cabin roof or deck area. In
this configuration, fit the supplied rubber gasket under
the antenna and use the four threaded studs, nuts and
washers to fix the antenna down.


Installation 11
The cable can be routed in the molding to drop down
directly underneath, or by breaking out the thin traps, the
cable can be routed out of the side of the antenna.
Alternatively, the antenna may be fixed on a standard 1”
threaded mounting pole (Not supplied). Attach the supplied
mounting base to the antenna with the four screws, thread
the cable down the center hole and through the pole.
Thread the pole into the mounting base, before attaching
the pole to the superstructure.
To minimize interference, place the antenna in a position
away from steel constructions, wires, metal masts, sources
of electrical interference, such as radar etc. If installing
the GPS antenna close to other antennas, mount it either
above or below their radiation beams.
The antenna cable is terminated in a screw fit connector
(SMA). Push the antenna plug into the socket on the side
of the unit and screw down the retaining collar.
Figure. 2.3 - Antenna connections
2.9 VHF antenna (not supplied)
North American Users - To meet FCC (Federal
Communications Commission) rules on Radio Frequency
Exposure, it is recommended that the VHF antenna
is mounted at least 3m (10ft) away from any area
accessible to any personnel on board. If this distance is
achieved by vertical separation, the antenna must be at
least 5m (16.5ft) above deck. This guideline applies only
to antennas not exceeding 3dBi gain.
Failure to observe these recommendations may
expose those within the MPE (Maximum Permitted
Exposure) radius of 1m (3ft) to RF absorption levels
that exceed the FCC safe limits.


NAIS-300
Rx Tx BIIT PWR
210mm (8.27in) 167.5mm (6.6in)
73.5mm 2.9in
VHF Antenna
GPS Antenna

12 Installation
The most important factor in the performance of any
AIS transceiver will be the quality and positioning of the
antenna.
As the range of VHF signals are governed by line of sight,
the antenna should be placed as high as possible, while
remaining clear of any metallic objects.
Long whip antennas are generally recommended for
larger boats, although the most popular antennas for
marine use is 1m (3ft 3in) long. On sailboats these are
usually mounted on the masthead, where the length of
the antenna keeps it clear from the navigation lights and
wind vanes. This type of antenna can also be mounted on
the cockpit roof or powerboat garages.
For maximum range, it is recommended that a VHF antenna
specifically tuned for use with an AIS is used, and mounted
away from the standard VHF antenna. Vertical separation is
preferred, but where this is not practical, at least 5 metre
horizontal spacing is recommended
The antenna coaxial cable and any connectors used
must be rated at 50Ω. Under no circumstances
should standard domestic TV cable and connectors
be used. Incorrectly rated cabling and connectors
could result in power not reaching the antenna, but
also power could be reected back into the NAIS-
300 unit, reducing its performance.
The quality of any connections and integrity of the
cable will directly affect the performance of the radio.
Poor soldering or corrosion of the terminals can impair
performance. We recommend that screw or crimp
terminal type connectors are not used for any through
deck fittings - a good quality waterproof solder terminal
connector will be less susceptible to poor connection due
to corrosion of the contacts.
To ensure the best performance of the radio, the antenna
cable should be routed where it is least likely to interfere
with, or receive interference from other electronic
equipment, such as echo sounder transducer cables and
high current carrying cables.

Installation 13
The antenna cable should terminate in a standard marine
PL259 plug fitting. Connect the antenna plug to the
socket on the side of the unit and screw the retaining
collar down. Figure 2.3.
To avoid possible water damage to the transceiver, it is
recommended that all cables are looped to provide a drip
path.


14 Installation

Configuration 15
3 Conguration
3.1 General
Before the NAIS-300 can become fully functional, it will
be necessary to load the following information about your
vessel into the unit:
Vessels Name
Call Sign
MMSI Number
Vessels Dimensions
Vessel Type
In order to enter this information, you will need to
connect your NAIS-300 to your PC or laptop through the
supplied RS232 cable. This can be done in the comfort of
your living room at home.
3.2 Connecting to a computer
Wire one end of the supplied RS232 cable into the connector
block on the main unit, refer to Fig 2.1, then plug the 9 pin
RS232 connector into the serial port on your PC or laptop.
If your PC or laptop does not have a serial port, and you
are using a USB to serial converter, please ensure this is
fully installed before proceeding.
Insert the Installation CD into your computer and
locate the “Setup.exe” le.
Double click the “Setup.exe” le to begin installation.
Follow the on screen prompts to install the .Net
framework, if required.
When a security warning is displayed, Press “Install”.
A Start Menu folder and shortcut will be created with
the name “proAIS“. This shortcut should be used to
re-launch the application as required.
•
•
•
•
•
1
2
3
4
5


16 Configuration
For security reasons the MMSI of the vessel cannot
be changed once programmed. Do not programme
the MMSI unless you are certain you have the
correct information. Please check the number
entered carefully. If the MMSI programmed is
incorrect the AIS transponder will need to be
returned to the supplier for factory reset.
Should it become necessary to change your MMSI, for
example, if you wish to re-install your NAIS-300 into a
new vessel; you will need to contact your local Navico
dealer about reprogramming a new number.
If no MMSI is entered the AIS transponder will operate in
receive only mode. The vessels own position will not be
transmitted. An MMSI must be entered to allow the AIS
transponder to transmit its own position to other vessels.
For a more detailed description of how to configure your
NAIS-300, please refer to the application user guide on the
CD supplied with the unit.


Operation 17
4 Operation
4.1 General
The NAIS-300 has a limited user interface, consisting of
a transmit enable/disable switch, (not supplied), and four
indicators on the top of the unit, they are:
PWR [Green] - Power/GPS Lock Status/Silent Mode
BIIT [Red] - Built In Integrity Test
TX [Yellow] - Transmit
RX [Blue] -AIS Message Received
4.2 Indicators
At power up, all four LED’s will light continuously for five
seconds to show that they are working, then they will go
into the following routines:
PWR
After the initial five seconds the LED will do two short
flashes and a longer pause before repeating itself. This
will continue until a GPS position fix is acquired. Once a
fix has been obtained, the LED will stay on continuously.
If, after a GPS fix, the transmitter has been disabled,
(Silent Mode), the LED will flash at a rate of one second
on and one second off.
BIIT (Built In Integrity Test)
The NAIS-300 is constantly monitoring and testing the
integrity of the AIS transceiver.
After the initial five seconds the LED will go out. Should a
fault be detected within the unit, the “BIIT” LED will start
to flash. The flash sequences listed below indicate the
specific faults:
1 flash - transponder not reponding
2 flashes - transmitter fault
3 flashes - receiver fault
4 flashes - VHF antenna VSWR fault
5 flashes - no GPS sensor
•
•
•
•

18 Operation
6 flashes - noise threshold exceeded
7 flashes - voltage supply fault
The “BIIT” message will remain there until the fault is
cleared by the NAIS-300 circuitry, or the unit has been
repaired.
TX
After the initial five seconds the LED will then go out. It
will light for one second every time the unit transmits its
AIS data.
The LED will also light continuously if a transmitter time-out
fault occurs.
RX
After the initial five seconds the LED will flash every time
an AIS message is received.
4.3 Enable/disable switch (Silent Mode)
This switch allows you to turn the NAIS-300’s VHF
transmitter “on” or “off”, rendering you either visible or
invisible to other AIS equipped vessels in your VHF range.
The default mode is with the transmitter active, “on“.
To turn your transmitter off push the switch once.
The “PWR” LED on the top of the unit will start to flash at
a rate of one second on and one second off. The “TX” LED
will remain off.
To turn your transmitter back on simply push the switch
again.
This mode will be stored in the NAIS memory, therefore
whatever mode you are in when power is turned off, will
be the same when power is restored.

Appendix 19
5 Appendix
5.1 Maintenance
Periodically check that the cables are secure and that the
connectors have not worked their way loose.
5.2 Troubleshooting
These simple checks should be carried out before seeking
technical assistance and may save time and expense.
General Symptom Possible Cause Remedy
Unit will not switch on Faulty connector to power
Fuse has blown
•
•
Check power
connection
Replace fuse and check
power supply
•
•
No GPS Position x Antenna or cable problem•Check antenna cable
and connections
•
No AIS transmission MMSI not entered
Transmit disabled
•
•
Enter MMSI number
(see chapter 3)
Enable Transmit (see
section 4.3)
•
•
No reception of
NMEA0183-HS
RS232 cable problem
RS485 cable problem
•
•
Check cables•
No reception of
SimNet/NMEA2000
data
SimNet/NMEA cable
problem
•Check SimNet/NMEA
cables
Check power cables
•
•
5.3 Accessories
The following accessories are available from local Navico
agents:
VA14* VHF AIS antenna - S/S whip with 20 metres
Cable, terminated in a PL259 plug.
* One off required for operation

20 Appendix
5.4 Product specications
AIS Type
Class B for use on non-SOLAS craft
VHF Receiver
Receiver type Dual TDMA (shared DSC)
Sensitivity < -107dBm for 20% PER
Transmit power 2Watt
Type Approval Meets IEC62287-1
GPS Receiver
Receiver type Integral 16 channel receiver
EMC
IEC60945
Power
Voltage 10.8 – 15.6VDC
Current <0.5A
SimNet/NMEA2000 Network load 1
Connectors
VHF Antenna PL259
GPS Antenna SMA
Compass mounting
Safe distance 0.3m
Environmental
Waterproofing IP67
Temperature range
Operational -15°C to +55°C
Storage -40°C to +85°C
Physical
Size 210mm x 130mm x 73.5mm
Weight 650g
Interfaces
NMEA0183-HS
Out 38kbaud VDM, VDO, RMC, ALR
In 38kbaud for configuration & testing only
SimNet/NMEA2000 PGN’s
NMEA2000 Mandatory PGNs
59392 ISO Acknowledgment
59904 ISO Request
60928 ISO Address Claim
126996 NMEA2000 Product Information
NMEA2000 Data PGNs
126992 System Time
129025 Position, “Rapid Update”
129026 COG & SOG, “Rapid Update”