Quark-Elec QK-A027-plus User manual

QK-A027-plus Manual
V 1.0 1 of 19 2022
QK-A027-plus AISnet Receiver Manual
NMEA 2000 AIS+GPS Receiver with Ethernet Output
Multiplexing Seatalk1& NMEA 0183 Input
NMEA 2000/0183/WiFi/USB/Ethernet Output
Built-in NMEA 0183 to NMEA 2000 Converter
Features
•Two independent receivers monitoring AIS channels (161.975MHz & 162.025MHz) and decoding
both channels simultaneously
•Sensitivity up to -112 dBm@30% PER (where A027 is -105dBm)
•Up to 50 nautical miles receiving range
•SeaTalk1to NMEA 0183 protocol converter
•NMEA 0183 message output through Ethernet (RJ45 port), WiFi, USB, and NMEA 0183
•Built-in GPS receiver to provide positional data
•Multiplexes NMEA input with AIS+GPS sentences,and outputs as a seamless stream of data
•Converts the combined NMEA 0183 data into NMEA 2000 PGNs
•WiFi can be set up to work in Ad-hoc/station/standby operating modes
•Up to 4 devices can be connected simultaneously to the internal WiFi access point
•Plug & Play connectivity with chart plotters and PCs
•Compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS (The configuration tool is a Windows
application, therefore a Windows computer is required for the initial configuration)
•The interfaces are compatible with NMEA0183-RS422 devices. For RS232 devices a Protocol Bridge
(QK-AS03) is recommended.

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Contents
1. Introduction ......................................................................................................................................3
2. Mounting ..........................................................................................................................................4
3. Connections.....................................................................................................................................4
3.1. Status LEDs.........................................................................................................................5
3.2. Power...................................................................................................................................6
3.3. VHF/AIS antenna.................................................................................................................6
3.4. GPS antenna.......................................................................................................................7
3.5. NMEA input and output connection.....................................................................................7
NMEA 0183 default baud rates ...............................................................................7
NMEA 0183 wiring - RS422 / RS232? ....................................................................7
3.6. SeaTalk1Input .....................................................................................................................8
3.7. Ethernet Connection (RJ45 port).........................................................................................9
3.8. NMEA 2000 Port..................................................................................................................9
Conversion Lists......................................................................................................9
3.9. WiFi connection.................................................................................................................10
WiFi Ad-hoc mode connection...............................................................................11
3.10. USB connection.............................................................................................................11
Will you need a driver to connect via USB? ..........................................................11
Checking the USB connection (Windows).............................................................12
4. Configuration (via USB).................................................................................................................13
4.1. Configuring Baud Rates ....................................................................................................14
4.2. WiFi - Station mode...........................................................................................................14
4.3. WiFi –Standby/Disable .....................................................................................................15
4.4. Filtering..............................................................................................................................15
Configuring filters...................................................................................................16
Routing data away from chosen outputs...............................................................16
4.5. Ethernet Settings...............................................................................................................16
4.6. USB - Monitoring NMEA Messages ..................................................................................16
5. Upgrading firmware........................................................................................................................17
6. Specification...................................................................................................................................17
7. Limited Warranty and Notices........................................................................................................18
8. Disclaimer ......................................................................................................................................18
9. Document History ..........................................................................................................................18
10. Glossary .................................................................................................................................18
11. For more info… ......................................................................................................................18

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1.Introduction
The A027+ is a commercial level AIS/GPS receiver with multiple routing functions. Data is generated from
the built-in AIS and GPS receivers. The NMEA 0183 and Seatalk1inputs are combined by the multiplexer
and forwarded to the WiFi, Ethernet (RJ45 port), USB, NMEA0183, and N2K outputs. Whether you are
using a tablet, a mobile phone, or an onboard computer, you can easily connect the device to your on-
board navigation system. The A027+ can also be used as an AIS shore station which can receive and
transfer AIS data to a remote server via the internet by government bodies.
The A027+ comes with a standard RS422 NMEA 0183 input. NMEA sentences from another on-board
device, such as a wind sensor, depth transductor or radar, can be combined with other navigation data by
the A027+.
The internal SeaTalk1converter allows the A027+ to convert data received from the SeaTalk1bus to NMEA
messages. These messages can be combined with other NMEA data and sent to the relevant outputs.
The A027+ features an integrated GPS module, which provides GPS data to all outputs. when an external
GPS antenna (with TNC connector) is connected to it.
The A027+’s built-in NMEA 2000 converter offers the option to connect it and send navigation data to the
NMEA2000 network. This is a one-way interface, meaning the combined GPS, AIS, NMEA0183 and
SeaTalk data is converted to NMEA 2000 PGNs and sent to the N2K network. Please be aware of that the
A027+ cannot read data from the NMEA2000 network.
When connected to a chart plotter or on-board PC running compatible software, the AIS data transmitted
from ships within range will be displayed on the screen, enabling the skipper or navigator to visualize the
traffic within VHF range. The A027+ can enhance safety at sea by providing proximity, speed, size,and
directional information of other vessels, improve safety and efficiency in navigation and help protect the
marine environment.
Figure 1: A027+ function diagram
The A027+ is classed as a commercial grade AIS receiver as it offers more enhanced functions such as
the Ethernet and NMEA 2000 outputs, which some entry level AIS receivers do not. It has a greater AIS
range of 45nm, like the commercial grade A026+, however, as it is a one-way interface, the A027+ is
perfect for those wanting the extra AIS range, but do not need the additional features that the A026+
provides. This keeps the A027+ pocket-friendly, while still offering more advanced functions than the entry-
level devices.
The below comparison chart briefly explains the functional differences between these products:
USB
WiFi
Ethernet
N2K
Maximum
AIS range
A027+
One-way
One-way
Yes
One-way
45nm
A026+
Bi-directional
Bi-directional
No
Bi-directional
45nm
A024
One-way
One-way
No
No
22nm
A026
One-way
One-way
No
No
22nm
A027
One-way
One-way
No
No
20nm
A028
One-way
No
No
One-way
20nm

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2.Mounting
Although the A027+ comes with an extruded aluminium enclosure to shield it from external RF interference,
it should not be fitted close to generators or compressors (e.g., refrigerators) as they can generate
substantial RF noise. It is designed to be installed in a protected indoor environment. Generally, a suitable
placement of the A027+ is together with other types of navigation equipment, along with the PC or chart
plotter that will be used to display the output data. The A027+ is designed to be securely mounted to a
suitable bulkhead or shelf in an indoor environment and needs to be placed where it is well protected from
humidity and water. Ensure there is enough space around the multiplexer to connect the wirings.
Figure 2: Dimensions
3.Connections
The A027+ NMEA 2000 AIS+GPS receiver has the following options for connection to other devices:
Figure 3 Typical system connection

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•AIS antenna connector: A SO239 VHF connector for external AIS antenna. An active VHF
antenna splitter is required if one VHF antenna is shared by the A027+ and a VHF voice radio.
•GPS connector: A TNC female bulkhead connector for external GPS antenna. The integrated
GPS module supplies positional data provided a GPS antenna is connected to the A027+.
•WiFi: Connectivity in both Ad-hoc and station modes on 802.11 b/g/n provides WiFi output of all
messages. The WiFi module can also be disabled by changing WiFi mode to standby.
•Ethernet: The multiplexed navigation data can be sent to a computer or remote server (by
connecting the A027+ to a router with internet connection).
•NMEA 0183 input/output connectors: A027+ can be connected to other NMEA0183 compatible
equipment, like wind/depth or heading sensors, via the NMEA input. The NMEA 0183 messages
from these devices can be multiplexed with AIS+GPS messages and then sent out through the
NMEA 0183 output to a chart plotter or other on-board device.
•USB connector: The A027+ comes with a type B USB connector and USB cable. The USB
connection supports data input (for firmware update and changing default settings) and output as
standard (multiplexed information from all input instruments will be sent to this connection).
•NMEA 2000: The A027+ comes with a five-core screened cable for the NMEA 2000 connection,
fitted with a male micro-fit connector. Simply connect the cable to the network backbone using a
T-piece connector. An NMEA 2000 backbone always requires two termination resistors, one at
each end.
Figure 4: Pin NMEA 2000 male micro-fit connector
Figure 5 A027+ bottom side view
Figure 6 A027+ top side view
3.1. Status LEDs
The A027+ features eight LEDs which indicate power, NMEA 2000, and WiFi status respectively. The
status LEDs on the panel show port activity and system status.
•SeaTalk1and IN（NMEA 0183 input): LEDs will flash for each valid message received.

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•GPS: LED flashes every second while receiving a valid message.
•AIS: LED flashes for each valid AIS message received.
•N2K: LED will flash for each valid NMEA 2000 PGN sent out on NMEA 2000 port.
•OUT (NMEA 0183 output): LED will flash for each valid message send out.
•WiFi: LED will flash for each valid NMEA message sent to WiFi output.
•PWR (Power): LED light is constantly lit in red when device is powered on.
3.2. Power
The A027+ operates from 12V DC. Power and GND are clearly indicated. Ensure these are connected
correctly. The A027+ is equipped with reverse polarity protection to protect the device in case of faulty
installation.
Ensure you use a reliable 12V power supply. A poorly designed power supply or battery, if connected
directly to the engine or other noisy devices, could result in significantly degraded receiver performance.
3.3. VHF/AIS antenna
The A027+ is not supplied with a VHF antenna, as the antenna and cable requirements differ from vessel
to vessel. A suitable VHF antenna must be connected before the receiver will operate fully.
AIS communication systems use frequencies in the maritime VHF band, which is considered to be ‘line of
sight’ radio. This means that if an AIS receiver’s antenna cannot ‘see’ the antennas of other vessels, the
AIS signals from those vessels will not reach that receiver. In practice, this is not a strict requirement. In
case the A027+ is used as a shore station, a few buildings and trees between a vessel and the station
may be fine. Large obstacles such as hills and mountains, on the other hand, will significantly degrade the
AIS signal.
To achieve the best possible receiving range, the AIS antenna should be placed as high as possible with
a relatively clear view of the horizon. Large obstructions might shade the AIS radio communication from
certain directions, giving uneven coverage.
VHF antennas can be used for AIS messages or radio communications. One antenna cannot be connected
to both AIS and VHF radio equipment unless an active VHF/AIS splitter is used. There are important
considerations when deciding whether to use two separate antennas or one combined antenna:
•2 VHF antennas: The best reception is achieved by using two separate antennas, one for AIS and
one for VHF radio. The antennas must be separated as much space as possible (ideally at least
3.0 meters). A good distance between the AIS/VHF antenna and the radio communication VHF
antenna is required to avoid interference.
•1 shared VHF antenna: If using only one antenna, e.g. Using an existing VHF radio antenna to
receive AIS signals, proper separation equipment (an active VHF Splitter) must be installed
between the antenna and the connected equipment.

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Figure 7: GPS (TNC), AIS (SO239), WiFi (SMA) antenna connections
3.4. GPS antenna
A TNC female bulkhead 50 Ohm connector is for the external GPS antenna (not included).
For best results, the GPS antenna should be in ‘line of sight’ of the sky. Once connected to a GPS antenna,
the integrated GPS module supplies positional data to the NMEA 0183 output, WiFi, USB Ethernet and
NMEA 2000 backbone. GPS output can be disabled when an external GPS signal is used.
3.5. NMEA input and output connection
NMEA 0183 input/output ports allow for connection to NMEA 0183 instruments and a chart plotter. The
built-in multiplexer combines the input NMEA 0183 data (e.g., wind/depth/radar) with the AIS and GPS
data and sends the combined data stream to all outputs, including the NMEA 0183 output port.
NMEA 0183 default baud rates
‘Baud rates’ refer to the data transfer speed. When connecting two NMEA 0183 devices, both devices’
baud rates must be set to the same speed.
•The A027+ input port’s default baud rate is 4800bps as it is usually connected to low speed NMEA
format data instruments such as heading, sounder, or wind/depth sensors.
•The A027+ output port’s default baud rate is 38400bps. The connected chart plotter should be
configured to this rate to receive data as AIS data transfer requires this higher speed.
These are the default baud rate settings and are most likely to be the baud rates required, however, both
baud rates are configurable if needed. Baud rates can be adjusted using the configuration software. (See
configuration section)
NMEA 0183 wiring - RS422 / RS232?
The A027+ uses the NMEA 0183-RS422 protocol (differential signal), however some chart plotters or
devices may use the older NMEA 0183-RS232 protocol (single-ended signal).
Based on the following tables, the A027+ can be connected to most NMEA 0183 devices, no matter if
these are using RS422 or the RS232 protocol. Occasionally, the connection methods shown below might
not work with older 0183 devices. In this case, a protocol bridge like our QK-AS03 is required (please
follow link for more details: QK-AS03 protocol bridge). The QK-AS03 connects and converts RS422 to the
older RS232 and vice-versa. It is easy to install, no configuration required.
Devices using the NMEA0183-RS232 protocol usually have one NMEA signal wire and GND is used as a
reference signal. Occasionally the signal wire (Tx or Rx) and GND must be swapped if the following wiring
does not work.
QK-A027+ wires
Connection needed on RS232 device
NMEA IN+
NMEA IN-
GND *
NMEA TX

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Warning: Your NMEA 0183-RS232 device might have two GND connections. One is for the NMEA
connection, and one is for the power.
Ensure you check the above table and your device’s documentation carefully before connection.
For RS422 interface devices, data wires need to be connected as shown below:
3.6. SeaTalk1Input
The built-in SeaTalk1to NMEA converter translates SeaTalk1data into NMEA sentences. The SeaTalk1
port has 3 terminals for connection to the SeaTalk1bus. Ensure the connection is correct before powering
up your device. An incorrect connection can damage the A027+ and the other devices on the SeaTalk1
bus.
The SeaTalk1converter converts the SeaTalk1messages as outlined in the conversion table below. When
a SeaTalk1message is received,the A027+ checks if the message is supported. When the message is
recognized as being supported, the message is extracted, stored,and converted to an NMEA sentence.
Any unsupported datagrams will be ignored. These converted NMEA messages are filtered and then
combined with NMEA data received on the other inputs.
This function allows the NMEA multiplexer to listen on the SeaTalk1bus. Only one SeaTalk1input is
needed as the SeaTalk1bus is a single-cable system that connects all instruments. The SeaTalk1to NMEA
converter works in one direction only on the A027+. NMEA sentences are not converted to SeaTalk1.
Supported SeaTalk1Datagrams
SeaTalk
NMEA
Description
00
DBT
Depth below transducer
10
MWV
Wind angle, (10 and 11 combined)
11
MWV
Wind speed, (10 and 11 combined)
20
VHW
Speed through water, includes heading when present
21
VLW
Trip mileage (21 and 22 combined)
22
VLW
Total mileage (21 and 22 combined)
23
MTW
Water temperature
25
VLW
Total and Trip mileage
26
VHW
Speed through water, includes heading when present
27
MTW
Water temperature
50
---
GPS latitude, value stored
51
---
GPS longitude, value stored
52
---
GPS speed over ground, value stored
53
RMC
Course over ground. RMC sentence is generated from stored
values from other GPS related datagrams.
54
---
GPS time, value stored
56
---
GPS date, value stored
58
---
GPS lat/long, values stored
89
HDG
Magnetic heading, including variation (99)
99
---
Magnetic variation, value stored
NMEA OUT+
NMEA OUT-
GND *
NMEA RX
* Swap two wires if the connection does not work.
QK-A027+ wires
Connection needed on RS422 device
NMEA IN+
NMEA IN-
NMEA OUT+ *
NMEA OUT-
NMEA OUT+
NMEA OUT-
NMEA IN+ *
NMEA IN-
* Swap two wires if the connection does not work.

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As the table shows, not all datagrams result in an NMEA 0183 sentence. Some datagrams are only used
to retrieve data, which is combined with other datagrams to create one NMEA 0183 sentence.
3.7. Ethernet Connection (RJ45 port)
The A027+ can be connected to a standard PC, network router or switch. Ethernet cables, also known as
RJ-45, CAT5, or CAT6 cables, have a square plug with a clip on each end. You'll use an ethernet cable
(not included) to connect the A027+ to other devices.
Please note: if connecting directly to a PC you will need a crossover cable.
3.8. NMEA 2000 Port
The A027+ converter provides an NMEA 2000 network connection. The A027+ combines all the NMEA
0183 data inputs and then converts them to NMEA 2000 PGNs. With the A027+,NMEA 0183 input and
SeaTalk1input data can be forwarded to more modern NMEA 2000 capable instruments, such as NMEA
2000 chart plotters.
NMEA 2000 networks must at least consist of a powered backbone with two terminators (termination
resistors), to which the multiplexer and any other NMEA 2000 devices must be connected. Each NMEA
2000 device connects to the backbone. It is not possible to simply connect two NMEA 2000 devices directly
together.
The A027+ is supplied with a spurred five-core screened cable for the NMEA 2000 connection, fitted with
a male micro-fit connector. Simply connect the cable to the network backbone.
Conversion Lists
The following conversion table lists the supported NMEA 2000 PGN’s (parameter group numbers) and
NMEA 0183 sentences. It is important to check the table to confirm that the A027+ will convert the required
NMEA 0183 sentences to PGNs:
NMEA 0183
sentence
Function
Converted to NMEA 2000 PGN/s
AAM
Waypoint Arrival Alarm
129284
ABM
AIS Addressed Binary and Safety Related Messages
129795, 129801
APB
Heading/Track Controller (Autopilot) Sentence “B”
129283, 129284
DBT
Depth Below Transducer
128267
DPT
Depth
128267
DSC
Digital Selective Calling Information
129808
DSE
Expanded Digital Selective Calling
129808
GGA
Global Positioning System Fix Data
126992, 129025, 129029
GLL
Geographic Position Latitude/Longitude
126992, 129025
GSA
GNSS DOP and Active Satellites
129539
GSV
GNSS Satellites in View
129540
HDG
Heading, Deviation & Variation
127250
HDM
Heading, Magnetic
127250
HDT
Heading, True
127250
HSC
Heading Steering Command
127237
MTW
Water Temperature
130311
MWD
Wind Direction & Speed
130306
MWV
Wind Speed and Angle (True or relative)
130306
RMB
Recommended Minimum Navigation Information
129283,129284
RMC*
Recommended Minimum Specific GNSS Data
126992, 127258, 129025, 12902
ROT
Rate Of Turn
127251

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RPM
Revolutions
127488
RSA
Rudder Sensor Angle
127245
THS
True Heading and Status
127250
VDR
Set and Drift
129291, 130577
VHW
Water Speed and Heading
127250, 128259
VLW
Dual Ground/Water Distance
128275
VTG*
Course Over Ground and Ground Speed
129026
VWR
Relative (Apparent) Wind Speed and Angle
130306
XDR
Battery information (voltage, current, from A016)
127508, 127506
XTE
Cross Track Error, Measured
129283
ZDA
Time & Date, Local Time Offset
126992,129033
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 1,2,3
129038
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 4
129793
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 5
129794
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 9
129798
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 14
129802
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 18
129039
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 19
129040
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 21
129041
VDM/VDO
AIS Message 24
129809. 129810
Please note: some PGN sentences that are received require additional data before being sent.
3.9. WiFi connection
The A027+ allows the data send through WiFi to a PC, tablet, smartphone, or other WiFi enabled device.
Users can access marine network data including vessel course, vessel speed, position, wind speed,
direction, water depth, AIS etc. on their computer or mobile device using a suitable chart software.
The IEEE 802.11b/g/n wireless standard has two basic modes of operation: Ad-hoc mode (peer to peer)
and Station mode (also called infrastructure mode). The A027+ supports 3 WiFi modes: Ad-hoc, Station
and Standby (disabled).
Figure 8 WiFi supports mode
•In Ad-hoc mode, wireless devices connect directly (peer to peer) without a router or access point. For
example, your smartphone can connect directly to the A027+ to receive marine data.
•In Station mode, wireless devices communicate through an access point (AP) such as a router that
serves as a bridge to other networks (such as the internet or LAN). This allows your router to handle
the data and traffic from your device. This data can then be picked up through your router anywhere
on your local area network. Similar to plugging the device directly into the router but using wireless
technology. This way, the mobile devices receive both your marine data and other AP connections such
as internet.