Ocean Signal ATA100 User manual

Installation Manual
English
Class A AIS
Transceiver
www.oceansignal.com
ATA100

© 2020 Ocean Signal Ltd
The technical data, information and illustrations contained in this manual were believed to
be correct at the time of print. Ocean Signal Ltd reserve the right to change specifi cations
and other information contained in this manual as part of our continual improvement
process.
No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in
any form, electronic or otherwise, without the prior permission of Ocean Signal Ltd.
No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in this manual.
Ocean Signal® is a registered trademark of Ocean Signal Ltd.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
ATA100 USER MANUAL 912S-02691
ATA100 QUICK START MANUAL 912S-03496
ATA100 INLAND WATERWAYS SUPPLEMENT 912S-03334

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1. GENERAL 4
1.1 Exposure to RF Electromagnetic Energy 4
1.2 ATA100 Overview 4
1.3 Warnings 5
1.4 ATA100 Box Contents 6
1.5 Example Systems 7
2. INSTALLATION 8
2.1 Unit Dimensions 8
2.2 Power Requirements 8
2.3 Making the Connections 13
2.4 Antenna Installation 18
2.5 Mounting Templates 21
3. BASIC OPERATION 22
3.1 Front Panel 22
3.2 Front Panel Controls Explained 22
3.3 User Interface Overview 30
3.4 Menu Structure 31
4. COMMISSIONING 32
4.1 Advanced Settings 32
4.2 Input / Output Set-up 35
4.3 Ships Static Data Set-up 37
4.4 Default Voyage Settings 38
5. INPUT / OUTPUT SENTENCES 39
5.1 IEC-61162 (NMEA0183) Sentences Supported 39
5.2 Sentence Priority and input fi ltering 41
5.3 Signature Requests supported for AIS Query ($AIAIQ,xxx) 41
5.4 Property Values supported by the EPV sentence 42
5.5 IEC-61162-1 (NMEA0183) Sentences Output 43
5.6 Sentence output fi ltering 44
6. GLOSSARY AND ABBREVIATIONS 45
7. FAULT FINDING 46
8. SPECIFICATIONS 47
9. SPARES AND ACCESSORIES 47
10. MAINTENANCE 48
10.1 Product Cleaning 48
10.2 Service and Maintenance 48
10.3 Firmware Updates 48
10.4 Routine equipment checks 49
11. APPROVALS 49
11.1 EU Marine Equipment Directive 49
11.2 United States of America 49
11.3 Canada 49
12. INSTALLATION RECORD 50

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1. GENERAL
1.1 Exposure to RF Electromagnetic Energy
This product complies with EN62311 and RSS-102 (Canada).
This product has been evaluated for compliance with the FCC RF exposure limits given in
CFR 47 part 1.307(b) at a distance greater than 50cm from the antenna.
1.2 ATA100 Overview
1.2.1 AIS Explained
The Automatic Identifi cation System (AIS) was designed as an aid to collision-avoidance
in the marine industry and is a signifi cant development in navigational safety. It is now
widely used at sea to provide vessels with a live accurate picture of marine traffi c in the
surrounding area.
The ATA100 from Ocean Signal is a fully compliant AIS Class A Transceiver. It has both fl ush
panel and free standing mounting options for easy installation into almost any position and
location ensuring optimal use of bridge space.
The ATA100 automatically sends continuous transmissions of your vessels information
using a common VHF frequency which can be received by all other AIS equipped vessels
and shore-based stations within its range. Vital information such as MMSI, GNSS location,
position, speed, course, etc. is shared and displayed on the rapid response, full colour LCD
display. This information helps to provide situational awareness and can signifi cantly assist
in collision avoidance.
The ATA100 from Ocean Signal is a universal Class A transceiver capable of exchanging
dynamic and static ship data with other AIS systems. The dynamic data such as location,
speed over ground, course over ground, heading, rate of turn is calculated automatically
using the internal GNSS receiver. The static data such as MMSI, call sign and name, type
of ship, length and beam is programmed into the AIS receiver after installation. Voyage-
related data such as destination, ETA, hazardous cargo and ship’s draught can also be
programmed into the ATA100 when appropriate.

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1.3 Warnings
This product is designed to assist navigation and should not be used in the place of
appropriate navigational judgement. AIS should be used as a complement to navigation and
should not be used to replace installed equipment such as RADAR or ECDIS.
! It is highly recommended that the operator of the ATA100 read and follow the
operation instructions within this manual to ensure accurate operation. Failure to
do so may impair proper functionality.
! The coastal mapping on this device is provided for guidance purposes only.
It has not been verifi ed or approved for navigational use by any marine or
waterway authority and therefore must only be used for reference purposes or in
conjunction with other approved navigational mapping sources.
! This product is designed to assist navigation and should not be used in the place
of appropriate navigational judgement. AIS should be used as a complement to
navigation and is not a replacement for installed RADAR or ECDIS equipment.
! AIS devices such as the ATA100 from Ocean Signal can only monitor other AIS
equipped vessels and the Offi cer of the Watch (OOW) should always be aware that
other surrounding vessels may not fi tted with AIS equipment.
! The ATA100 should be installed by a qualifi ed installer or technician and the
installation instructions included in this manual must be followed succinctly and
carefully without deviation.
! The AIS antenna emits low levels of electromagnetic radio frequency radiation
which can be hazardous to health. All persons must maintain safe distance of 3m
horizontally and 1m vertical from the AIS antenna whilst transmitting.
! It is recommended that the Ocean Signal ATA100 is used in conjunction with the
supplied GNSS antenna. Use of an alternative GNSS antenna may impair the
functionality of the Ocean Signal ATA100.
! All maintenance and/or repair work should be carried out by trained persons
authorized by Ocean Signal. Do not attempt to disassemble this equipment
as doing so may cause fi re, electrical shock, serious injury or malfunction of
equipment. This product contains no user-serviceable parts.
! Do not install the ATA100 in a fl ammable atmosphere such as an engine room or
near to fuel tanks.
! Do not install the ATA100 in a location subject to excessive solar heat such as in
direct sunlight or underneath a windshield.
! The ATA100 is a maritime radio transmitter and is subject to radio licensing laws.
Please contact the relevant authority in your country for further information
regarding radio license requirements.
! False information transmitted by the ATA100 can result in risk to other vessels as
well as your own. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that vessel sensors are
confi gured and calibrated correctly and that all AIS transmission information from
your vessel is accurate and up to date.

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1.4 ATA100 Box Contents
No. Item No. Item
1ATA100 8Cable Ties (10)
2GNSS Antenna (inc. 10m cable &
mount) 9Terminal Connectors (18, 9, 5 and 2 way)
3Documentation 10 Wiring Card
4Cable Support 11 Mounting Screws
5Coax Cable Boots and seals 12 USB On-the-Go Cable
6Mounting Gasket (2) 13 USB Cable
7Mounting Bracket Assembly

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1.5 Example Systems

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2. INSTALLATION
2.1 Unit Dimensions
Installation templates are on the centre pages of this manual.
2.2 Power Requirements
! Connection to an emergency power source is an IMO requirement for SOLAS
vessels.
The power supply current ratings and recommended fusing or circuit breaker currents are
as follows:
• A 12VDC supply should be able to provide 4.0A and be fused at 8.0A.
• A 24VDC supply should be able to provide 2.0A and should be fused at 4.0A.

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2.2.1 Cable protection and retaining
The rear case of the ATA100 unit has been created to allow for simple and effective
installation of the connecting cables to allow for maximum protection and robustness.
It is advisable to insert the required cables into the rear cover BEFORE installation.
The two coaxial cables (VHF antenna and GNSS antenna) are secured through rubber boots
and the interface cables are passed through rubber grommets and secured to the cable
support. Select the appropriate boot ends for the cable being used and feed the cables
through the boots
Plan what interface cables are required and use a pair of long nosed pliers to remove
the required water seal plugs from the retaining grommets. Pass the cables through the
grommets and secure with cable ties leaving appropriate length for the connections.
VHF Antenna Connector
The rubber boot caps supplied are suitable for up to 10mm diameter coaxial cable, select
the appropriate cap and pass it over the cable followed by the boot before connecting the
cable to a suitable PL259 plug. Pass the plug and cable through the hole in the rear cable
cover and insert the boot and boot cap ready for fi nal installation.
GNSS Antenna Connector
The rubber boot caps supplied are suitable for 3mm or 6mm diameter coaxial cable. If the
supplied cable is long enough to connect directly then cut the boot cap and slot it around
the cable. If a cable extension has been used select the appropriate cap and pass it over
the cable followed by the boot before connecting the cable to a suitable TNC plug. Pass the
plug and cable through the hole in the rear cable cover and insert the boot and boot cap
ready for fi nal installation. If the boot cap has been cut secure it around the cable with a
cable tie.
Data Cables
Cut and remove the plastic plugs from the appropriate access grommets on the rear cable
cover.
NOTE: Only remove the plastic plugs required leaving the others in place to prevent
water access to the rear of the main unit.
The grommets are suitable for cable diameters between 4mm and 6mm. Pass the required
cables through the grommets and secure with the cable ties provided.

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Cable Restraint Bracket
Attach the restraint bracket to the rear case using the two self tapping screws supplied.
Once all the antenna and data connectors have been routed to the ATA100 and cut to length
use the supplied cable ties to secure all cables to the restraint bracket.
2.2.2 Surface Mounting the Transceiver
The transceiver unit can be mounted directly to a suitable fl at mounting surface where
access to the rear for cable connection is possible.
! Before mounting to an existing surface check the viewing angle details. If
uncertain apply power to the unit and test for view-ability before installation.
Create a cut-out using the template in the centre of this manual and drill 8x mounting
screw holes suitable to take No.6 (3.5mm) self tapping screws(supplied).
NOTE: If the mounting surface is too thin or of unsuitable material for self tapping
screws it is advisable to use M4 stainless steel bolts with nuts and shake proof
washers.
Attach the 4 gasket strips to the rear of the rear cable cover ensuring the tabs locate
correctly to provide a seal.
Feed the required cables through the cable management system and secure leaving
appropriate length to complete the connections. Secure the cables to the cable restraint
and then secure the rear cable cover to the mounting surface using the appropriate screws
or bolts.
! Take care not to over-tighten the fi xing screws to prevent damage to the plastic.
See section 2.2 Making the Connections on page 13 of this manual.

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2.2.3 Bracket Mounting the Transceiver
The Transceiver can be mounted to a fl at surface using the supplied mounting bracket.
Secure part A of the bracket to the rear case using one set of four attachment points
depending on whether the unit is to be mounted above of below the mounting surface,
Using the supplied template in the centre of this manual ensure there is appropriate space
around the mounting position before drilling 4x mounting screw holes suitable to take No.6
(3.5mm) self tapping screws(supplied).
NOTE: If the mounting surface is too thin or of unsuitable material for self tapping
screws it is advisable to use M4 stainless steel bolts with nuts and shake proof
washers.
Secure part B of the mounting bracket to the mounting surface using the appropriate
screws or bolts.
Use the supplied bolt and adjustment knob to attach the rear case and mounting assembly
to the mounting base and secure in a suitable position (see diagrams over page).
Feed the required cables through the cable management system leaving appropriate length
to complete the connections and secure the cables to the cable restraint.
See section 2.2 Making the Connections on page 13 of this manual.

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2.3 Making the Connections
2.3.1 VHF Antenna Connection
PL259 Plug (Not Supplied)
2.3.2 GNSS Antenna Connections
TNC Male supplied pre-connected to the GNSS Antenna. Suitable TNC Male connector
required if the cable is to be extended.
NOTE: It may be necessary to cut the rubber grommet if the cable is not being
extended. In this case secure the grommet with a cable tie following
installation.

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2.3.3 Data Ports
There are multiple data Input and Output ports available for connection via the rear
connector panel. The ports use IEC-61162-1/2 (NMEA0183) and can be confi gured for 4800,
9600 or 38400 baud.
Port Output Input
Sensor 1
ABK, ACA, ACS, ALC, ALF, ALR,
ARC, EPV, GBS, GGA, GSA, GSV,
HBT, LR1, LR2, LR3, LRF, RMC,
SSD, TRL, TXT, VDM, VDO, VER,
VSD
ABM, ACA, ACK, ACN, AIQ, AIR, BBM,
DTM, EPV, GBS, GGA, GNS, GSA, GSV,
HBT, HDG, HDT, LRF, LRI, RMC, ROT,
SSA, SSD, SPW, THS, VBW, VSD, VTG
Sensor 2
Sensor 3*
DGPS
ECDIS
LR
Talkers: GP,GN,GA Incoming DGNSS sentences
LC,IN Incoming EPFS sentences
AI Outgoing AIS Sentences
GP Outgoing Internal GPS Sentences
All other sentences may be presented from any talker.
All of the ports may be used concurrently, however in the case that the same TALKER/
SIGNATURE combination is received though two or more ports, the port that fi rst received
the sentence takes precedence until such time as the sentence has not been received on
that port for 5 seconds at which point precedence will revert to the next port the sentence
is received on.
* Sensor 3 can also be used for RTCM SC104 V2.3 data from a differential GNSS receiver.
NOTE: All Inputs and Outputs can be confi gured in the Settings - System - Input/
Output section covered on page 30 of this manual.
2.3.4 Relay Connections
To enable the operation of an external system or device the ATA100 is equipped with relay
contacts that activate when an alarm is activated. There is a common connection with one
normally open contact and one normally closed contact.
The contacts operate simultaneously and are rated at 2 Amps continuous.
Max. switching voltage:125VAC, 60VDC
Max. switching current: 1A

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2.3.5 Data Connections
With the cables secured to the cable restraint system and passed through the grommet
seals ensure the supplied wiring card is fi tted correctly to the lower section of the rear
cable cover. Insert the 4 green multi connectors into the appropriate slots in the cover.
NOTE: The connectors will only fi t in the correct orientation. DO NOT force them.
The cables can now be cut, stripped and connected to the appropriate terminals on the
connectors using the template. By wiring to the connectors in this position the cable
lengths are all cut to a length suitable for fi nal connection to the AIS main unit.
! Use a 2mm or 2.5mm screwdriver to tighten the connectors. Using a larger screw-
driver will damage the connector.
When all the required cables are secure pull the connectors from the rear case and remove
the Cable Template.
2.3.6 Blue Sign Switch
When operated in the Inland Waterways mode an external Blue Sign switch can be
connected to allow for easy selection of the Blue Sign Mode.
Switch above is shown with Blue sign active.
See the separate Inland Waterways Manual for further information.

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2.3.7 Data Termination Switches
DIP switches select a 120Ohm termination to the serial ports. If a port requires termination
push the appropriate switch to the ON position.
2.3.8 Pilot Plug Connector
On the front panel (under a rubber cover) there is a standard “Pilot Plug” connection.
The connector is suitable for an AMP/Receptacle, shell size 11, 9-pin plug.
2.3.9 USB Socket
The front panel Micro USB socket can be used for:
• Data logging (insert a USB stick using the supplied USB On-the-Go cable
(see section 1.4 item12 in ATA100 Box Content)
• Data input / output
• Firmware updates (see section 8.3 on page 46 of this manual)
! ENSURE any equipment connected to this port is isolated from any external earth
connections
2.3.10 Cable Sizes and Specifi cations
Data cables should be suitable for the vessel on which the AIS Transceiver is being installed
taking note of any restricted areas that may have specifi c cable requirements. Each port
has a +ve, -ve and ground connection which should all be connected to ensure there is no
interference cause by external infl uence.
! Do not connect the shield of both the external equipment and the junction box.
Connect at one end only.

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2.3.11 Final Assembly
Connect the prepared VHF (PL259) and GNSS (TNC Type) plugs to the sockets on the rear of
the main unit
Turn over the green data connectors and carefully plug to the sockets on the rear of the
main unit before placing the main unit into the rear cable cover and securing with the 4x
supplied M5 stainless steel bolts
The ATA100 Class A AIS Transceiver is now ready for power up and initial set-up.

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2.4 Antenna Installation
2.4.1 GNSS (GPS) Antenna
The GNSS Antenna should be installed with a clear and unobstructed view of the sky, it
should NOT be positioned or mounted on a mast that can cause the antenna to swing and
potentially reduce the accuracy of the GNSS position and it should NOT be positioned in the
direct path of a radar transmitter.
The GNSS antenna can be mounted either on a fl at horizontal surface or on a suitable pole
mount (not supplied).
• If you intend to surface mount the antenna, ensure you have access to the
underside of the mounting surface.
• If you intend to pole-mount the antenna, the mount requires a 1 inch 14 TPI
thread.

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After fi xing the GNSS antenna to an appropriate location, route the 10m cable to your AIS
transceiver unit, adding extension cable as necessary.
! DO NOT cut the GNSS Antenna cable to shorten. Neatly coil and tie excess cable
! The cable may be extended using any suitable low loss RF co-axial cable up to a
maximum total length of 20m. Ensure all connections are made correctly using
connectors suitable for the RG174 cable and tested for continuity.
! Extension cables must be terminated with a TNC connector suitable for
connection to the ATA100
Connect the cable to the GNSS connector on the ATA100

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2.4.2 VHF Antenna
Connection of a suitable VHF antenna will be required for the AIS transceiver to operate.
A standard wide band marine VHF antenna such as that used with VHF voice radios is
suffi cient. The antenna cable should be terminated with a PL-259 (UHF) connector.
• It is recommended that VHF antennas are mounted as high as possible on a
vessel to maximise range.
• It is recommended that VHF antennas are mounted a minimum of 3m from
other VHF antennas that may be in use on a vessel.
! For SOLAS and Inland waterways registered vessels there may be regional
requirements for dedicated AIS antennas
! Always follow the manufacturers’ instructions to ensure the correct installation of
the antenna.