Vesper Cortex M1 User manual

1
M1 INSTALLATION GUIDE
M1 HUB - USA & CANADA
M1 HUB - REST OF WORLD

2
Index
Introduction 3
Items you need for installation 4
The Cortex network 5
LED indicator panel 6
M1 port locations 6
M1 positioning 7
M1 mounting 7
Connecting devices to an M1 8
Device connection FAQs 9
To connect power 10
Wiring color codes 10
AIS / VHF Antenna (required) 11
Internal AIS / VHF splitter 11
External GPS Antenna (required) 12
External WiFi Antenna (recommended) 13
To connect to NMEA 2000 14
To connect to NMEA 0183 15
External Cellular Antenna (optional) 16
External Speaker (optional) 17
Connecting devices to an M1 18
To connect a mobile device 18
To connect a handset 19
Device connection FAQs 19
MMSI programming introduction 20
To program an MMSI with the Onboard App 20
To program an MMSI with a handset 21
To confirm AIS operation 21
Monitoring and control 22
Cortex Monitor App introduction 22
To program GPIO sensors with the Cortex
Onboard App 23
To program GPIO sensors with a handset 23
Heading Sensor 24
To update M1 firmware 24
M1 Wiring color codes 25
NMEA PGNs and Monitoring Instruments 26
GPIO sensor wiring - Lighting remote control 27
GPIO sensor wiring - Motion sensor 28
GPIO sensor wiring - High water sensor 29
GPIO sensor wiring - Bilge pump activation sensor 30
GPIO sensor wiring - Hatch / door open sensor 31
GPIO sensor wiring - Smoke / heat sensor 31
Specifications 33
Dimensions - M1, H1, H1P 34
Dimensions - External GPS Antenna 35
Dimensions - External Cellular Antenna 35
LED icon troubleshooting 36
Warnings 38
Warranty 39

3
Introduction
The Vesper Marine Cortex M1 hub is an AIS Class-B SO-TDMA
transponder with integrated on board and remote vessel
monitoring and control.
When paired with a Vesper Marine Cortex H1 or H1P handset, the
M1 hub becomes a fully-featured 25W VHF radio with complete
Class D DSC functionality.
The M1 hub features integrated WiFi providing configuration and
control via a Cortex app or handset.
The M1 hub uses two dedicated AIS channels to transmit and
receive vessel position and other data to and from all other AIS
equipped vessels within range.
The M1 hub uses received AIS data by sharing it with other
devices on board your vessel (e.g. chart plotters, laptops, phones)
over NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183 and WiFi.
For flexibility, the M1 hub includes an integrated AIS/VHF splitter
which allows an existing or secondary VHF radio to share the VHF
Antenna with the M1 hub (the M1 uses a single antenna for VHF
and AIS).
Vesper Marine releases product updates from time to time.
These updates often add new features.
To be notified when an update is available please register your
Cortex at www.vespermarine.com/register.
Register Your Cortex
Visit www.vespermarine.com/faqs for answers to frequently
asked questions, technical support, downloads, local dealer
contacts and more…
Questions and FAQs
The M1 hub also features an integrated GNSS receiver
(supporting GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, Galilleo), fully isolated
NMEA ports and a high-power external speaker driver. Internal
antennas for cellular and WiFi are included with the option to
attach external antennas as required.
Off-boat vessel monitoring and control is supported via a built-in
cellular modem and the Cortex Monitor App on your phone.
Integrated sensors provide vessel position, battery voltage,
heading and barometric pressure, while NMEA 2000 or NMEA
0183 provides information from sensors connected to the NMEA
network.
Optional external sensors can be installed and connected to the
M1 hub to monitor information such as bilge level, shore power
and vessel security. Optional output relays can be installed to
remotely control lighting, air conditioning, refrigeration, bilge
pump, battery charging and more.

4
Items you need for installation and configuring
Required components (included)
M1 hub
GPS Antenna
Power cable
WiFi antenna
Audio cable
Input / Output cable
Required components (not included)
AIS/VHF antenna
Fuse or circuit breaker
Fastenings of your choice
Mobile device running the Cortex Onboard App or a Cortex
H1 or H1P handset for configuring.
Optional accessories
Cortex H1 or H1P handset(s)
External speaker
External cellular antenna
NMEA 2000 cable
NMEA 2000 T connector
NMEA 2000 network extension cable
External sensors for Monitoring and Control
External cellular antenna
(optional)
M1 hub GPS antenna (included)
External WiFi
antenna
(included)
Cortex H1 or H1P handset
(optional)
External speaker (optional)

5
Onboard App Introduction
Cortex Onboard is a free Android and Apple
iOS app that connects your phone or tablet
to the WiFi of the M1.
Use the Cortex Onboard App to configure,
manage and display M1 data. The
Configuration Menu is used for initial
configuration, AIS programming, network
settings, firmware updates and input /
output sensor setup.
Once the M1 is configured, the Cortex
Onboard App provides access to all M1
status and smartAIS display screens in a
similar layout to a Cortex handset.
See To update M1 firmware (pg24).
Cortex Onboard App Main Menu options
Select the Main Menu icon ( )
Plotter Plotter view of AIS targets
Directory AIS targets and manual DSC contacts
Instruments GPS, integrated sensors and NMEA data
Anchor watch Monitor the vessel at anchor
Collision avoidance Manage a potential collision scenario
MOB Man Overboard monitoring
Settings Configure and manage the M1
Collision avoidanceAnchor watchInstruments MOBDirectoryPlotter

6
NMEA 2000
MFD
Secondary VHF
Wind
DepthHeading Others
GPS (10 Hz)
Antenna
(included)
WiFi data
AIS / VHF
Antenna
External
Speaker
Cortex
Handsets
WiFi Antenna
(included)
Cellular
Antenna
NMEA 0183
Remote monitoring Input and Output examples
Power
12/24V
High water Hatch sensor Lighting Motion sensor Bilge pump
Chart plotter
The Cortex network

7
LED indicator panel
The M1 indicator panel provides system status via orange, green
and red illumination in various stages of solid or flashing.
eg. The GPS icon flashes green momentarily when a fix is
acquired and returns to solid green after a few seconds.
The VHF icon indicates VHF, AIS and DSC as these functions are
all connected to the same AIS/VHF antenna.
Power ON is indicated with white light.
See M1 LED icon troubleshooting (pg36).
1 WiFi Antenna port
2 GPS Antenna port
3 Cellular Antenna port
7 NMEA 2000 port
8 Input / Output port
(NMEA 0183 and GPIO
sensors)
2
4 DC Power Supply
(12V or 24V DC)
5 Auxiliary VHF port
6 VHF Antenna
1 3
4 5 6
9 Audio port
(External Speaker)
987
M1 port locations
GPS VHF WiFi NMEA
2000
PowerCloud

8
M1 positioning
1. Use the M1 as a template for mounting holes.
2. Mark the holes on the mounting surface and drill them
3. Align the M1 to the mounting holes and secure with
fastenings of your choice. (not included)
Recommended screws: 316 Stainless Self Tapping
8G/1" (4.2/25.4mm) or 10G/1" (4.8/25.4mm) Pan/Round Head.
M1 mounting
Cables Allow
2"/50mm
WiFi Antenna
Allow
8"/200mm
Cables Allow
2"/50mm
Allow at least 2"/ 50mm at each connector
row to give sufficient room for cable
clearance and connection.
Allow at least 8" / 200mm for the external
WiFi antenna to be positioned in a vertical
position to increase WiFi range.
For optimal Heading Sensor performance,
do not mount on or near ferrous materials.
See Heading Sensor introduction (pg24)
CAUTION - Ensure that the minimum safe
compass distance is maintained.
Standard: 0.8 m, Steering: 0.4 m.

9
To connect power
M1 DC power requirements:
Note - Each handset requires 12W of power (1A@12V)
HINT - To provide sufficient power, consider the total system
requirements in terms of adequate cable gauge and fuse rating
with capacity for future expansion (ie, adding an H1 or H1P
handset to the same circuit).
The 2M (6.5ft) power cable (supplied) is terminated with a 2 pin
socket. This cable may be extended or shortened as necessary.
> Check that the VHF antenna is connected before
connecting to live DC power.
> Connect the positive (+ve red) and negative (-ve
black) leads of the power cable to the vessel.
> Connect a fuse or circuit breaker to the positive cable
of the appropriate rating for the system. (ie 10A for the M1,
2A for each handset)
> Connect the power cable to the M1. Tighten the power
cable lock ring clockwise to ensure a secure connection
and watertight seal.
> Turn the vessel's batteries (and/or switch or circuit breaker)
on to apply power to the M1.
> Confirm the M1 is powered on with a visual check on the
M1 indicator lights.
M1 wiring diagram
Power +ve
FUSE
Negative -ve
HINT - Connect the M1 to a power supply that will remain on even
when the vessel’s batteries may be turned off. (eg, connected to
the 24hr circuit)
This is important for monitoring to ensure the M1 remains on even
when the main DC power of the vessel is switched off.
Wiring color codes
Red
Black
Nominal 0.5A @ 12V
VHF High Power Transmit (Max) 6.0A @ 12V
Red DC positive (+ve) (12/24 volts).
Black DC negative (-ve)
Always use a fuse or circuit breaker installed near the battery
end or bus bar end.
Do not connect directly to a battery.
If you must extend the power connections use quality tinned
marine grade wire at least 16 AWG (1.5mm²).

10
Internal AIS / VHF splitter
The M1 incorporates an AIS/VHF splitter to share one AIS/VHF
antenna and to allow connection to an external VHF radio via the
auxiliary port.
The auxiliary port protects the transponder while an external VHF
is transmitting (up to 25W) and also isolates the external VHF
radio when the M1 is transmitting.
The auxiliary port will still provide a path to the antenna for the
external VHF radio in the event of an M1 power failure.
AIS / VHF Antenna (required)
The M1 shares one antenna for both AIS and VHF functions.
A dedicated VHF antenna is required.
Choose a high quality omni-directional VHF antenna designed for
the marine band (156-162MHz) and ensure it is well tuned at the
AIS end of the band (VSWR 2:1 or less at 162MHz).
See Part Number VA159 (AIS/VHF Antenna).
Mount the antenna vertically, as high as possible (at least 2-3
meters (6-10 ft) above the waterline). It is not recommended to
place the VHF antenna near a mast or other metal structures
CAUTION - Install the antenna a minimum of 3m (10ft) from any
other VHF or HF antennas and not within the beam path of a
radar. Inadequate separation may damage the Cortex transponder
and void your warranty.
CAUTION - Never operate the M1 unless it is connected directly
to a suitable VHF antenna.
HINT - The VHF indicator light will display red when a problem
is detected with the antenna system (ie, the VSWR is above the
acceptable level).
> Connect the AIS/VHF Antenna plug (PL259) to the M1 port
labeled ANTENNA.
> Tighten clockwise.
> (If applicable) Connect the auxiliary VHF antenna cable
(BNC) to the auxiliary VHF port labeled SPLITTER.
AIS / VHF Antenna connection
Auxiliary VHF
VHF Antenna
VSWR stands for Voltage Standing Wave Ratio and is a measure
of the how well matched a transmission line (e.g. the antenna
cable connected to the VHF output of your the M1) is to its
termination impedance (e.g. your antenna).
VSWR can be thought of as a comparative measure of how much
power, generated from your M1 AIS transponder, is delivered to
the antenna and how much of it is reflected back and lost in the
poorly matched transmission line.
A high VSWR will reduce your effective transmission range and
may also lead to other problems.
What does VSWR mean ?

11
External GPS Antenna (required)
Consider the following location and connection requirements:
- The GPS antenna should be positioned with an unobstructed
view of the sky.
- The GPS antenna is rated IP67 and UV stable for external
installation.
- Do not place the GPS antenna near or in the path of radar, HF
and/or high power satellite communication (such as Iridium Go)
antennas.
- You cannot use another GPS or any other NMEA device
to provide a GPS position to the M1. Class B AIS SO-TDMA
transponders are required by international regulations to use
their own GPS.
- You may use the M1 to share GPS position data to other
devices over NMEA 2000, 0183 or WiFi.
- The antenna cable is terminated with an SMA connector to
facilitate easy routing through holes and openings. Do not cut
the cable without the correct tools to crimp on a new connector.
HINT - Use the GPS Status screen in the Onboard App or handset
to view the satellite signal strengths and determine the best
location for mounting the external GPS antenna.
CAUTION - The Vesper Marine GPS antenna is specifically
designed for use with Vesper Marine devices. Use of a different
GPS antenna may damage the M1 hub and void the warranty.
External GPS Antenna mounting
Pole mount
Deck mount on base
Vertical surface mount
> After installing the GPS Antenna,
connect the SMA connector of
the GPS Antenna cable to the
M1 port labeled GPS.
> Tighten clockwise.
Do not over torque.
1” 14 UNS threaded mast
Deck mount flush
GPS Antenna

12
> Connect the WiFi Antenna to the M1
port labeled WiFi.
> Tighten clockwise. Do not over torque.
> Adjust the angle of the WiFi antenna to
be as close to vertical as practical.
HINT - Install the WiFi Antenna last to allow
sufficient room for fingers to first access and
install the other SMA size connectors attached
to the External GPS and optional cellular
antenna for cloud connectivity.
External WiFi Antenna (recommended)
Consider these WiFi requirements when choosing a position:
- Allow enough clearance space when installing the M1 for the
External WiFi Antenna to be positioned in a vertical position to
increase WiFi range.
- Do not place the External WiFi Antenna near or in the path
of radar, HF and/or high power satellite communication (such as
Iridium Go) antennas.
- Consider the distance between the handset and M1 onboard.
Some objects and materials such as steel, aluminum and carbon
composites may provide interference to degrade the WiFi signal
strength.
External Wifi Antenna Configuration
Cortex Onboard App:
> Menu ( ) > Settings
> Device Settings > Networks > WiFi...
> Use external antenna (select on/off)
Cortex handset:
> Main Menu ( ). Touch on the wrench icon ( ) to open
the Configuration Menu.
> Networks > WiFi...
> External Antenna (select on/off)
WiFi signal strength is checked via the WiFi icon on the handset
status bar or the WiFi signal on your device.
Note - The M1 includes an internal WiFi antenna for installations
where the external antenna is not required.
External WiFi Antenna installation
WiFi Antenna
HINT - Installations where an M1
is mounted in close proximity
to an H1 (with little or no
interference to the WiFi
signal) may not require
fitment of the External
WiFi Antenna.

13
NMEA 2000 Gateway
The M1 incorporates an NMEA Gateway to allow different brands
and generations of electronics on NMEA 0183 or 2000 networks
to talk to each other automatically and transfer data without extra
multiplexing devices or configuring.
The Gateway translates selected NMEA 2000 sensor data for
compatibility with mobile apps. Monitor navigation data on your
Cortex Onboard App on your phone or tablet or use it with third
party apps of your choice.
Data is made available to NMEA 0183 and 2000 plotters. The
Gateway supports a range of wind, depth, speed, heading,
temperature, barometric pressure and autopilot PGNs.
See PGNs sent and received by the gateway (pg26).
Example Case #1:
Sailing and navigation apps cannot talk directly to an NMEA 2000
network as the apps use the 0183 protocol. We need to translate
data from NMEA 2000 to 0183.
Gateway: The M1 receives NMEA 2000 PGNs and automatically
converts these to 0183 sentences and sends to devices running
the sailing and navigation apps via WiFi.
Example Case #2:
A vessel has an older chart plotter (NMEA 0183 only) with new
NMEA 2000 sailing instruments.
Gateway: The M1 receives the new instrument data from the
vessel’s NMEA 2000 network and automatically converts the data
to 0183 sentences for the chart plotter. The chart plotter 0183
wires are connected to the 0183 wires on the M1's input/output
cable.
DepthHeading Wind
NMEA 2000
MFD
WiFi data
NMEA 0183
Depth
Wind
Chart plotter
NMEA 2000 Gateway example

14
Chart plotter
Terminating
Resistor
T Connection
Network
extension cable
Network
power
Drop cable
To connect to NMEA 2000
The M1 can be connected to an NMEA 2000 network to enable
AIS and Navigation data, including GPS to be sent to other NMEA
2000 devices.
- The NMEA sentences (PGNs) supported are listed on page 26.
- A NMEA 2000 drop cable and T connector are required to
connect the M1 to a vessel’s NMEA 2000 network.
- Modifying the Instance or System Identification can be done via
the Cortex Onboard App or from the H1 handset.
Cortex Onboard App:
> Menu ( ) > Settings > Device Settings > Networks
> NMEA 2000...
> Device Instance (0-255) (select to enter value)
> System Instance (0-255) (select to enter value)
Cortex handset:
> Main Menu ( ). Touch on the wrench icon ( ) to open
the Configuration Menu.
> Networks
> N2000 (NMEA 2000)
> Device Instance
> System Instance
To change the Device or System instance select the field and use
the touchscreen menu to key a number between 0-255
NMEA 2000 network connection example
NMEA 2000 port

15
NMEA 0183 devices can receive AIS data when connected to the
M1 I/O (Sensors GPIO / NMEA 0183) expansion port.
- The NMEA sentences supported are included on page 26.
The NMEA Baud rate can be changed via the Cortex Onboard App
or from the H1 handset.
Cortex Onboard App:
> Menu ( ) > Settings > Device Settings
> Networks > NMEA 0183... > Baud rate (select)
Cortex handset:
> Main Menu ( ). Touch on the wrench icon ( ) to open
the Configuration Menu.
> Networks
> 0183 (NMEA 0183)
> Baud In >
> Baud out >
HINT - AIS output requires a minimum of 38400 Baud rate.
Note - When connecting the M1 to NMEA 0183 devices, connect
0183 Common (Black) to the vessel's negative bus.
This is to ensure a satisfactory grounding as the NMEA
0183 network of the M1 is isolated.
SENSOR
INPUT 1
GPIO
10 PIN GPIO
+12V
I/O 1
GPIO GND
10 PIN GPIO
- 12V
+ve 12/24V
I/O 2
GPIO
10 PIN GPIO
ORANGE
WHITE
DARK GREEN
YELLOW
ORANGE
BLACK
RED
BROWN
LIGHT GREEN INPUT / OUTPUT 2
BROWN INPUT / OUTPUT 1
GRAY INPUT 3
VIOLET INPUT 2
BLUE INPUT 1
RED PULLUP VOLTAGE
NMEA TX (+) A
NMEA TX (-) B
NMEA RX (+) A
NMEA RX (-) B
AUDIO +VE
AUDIO -VE
Reserved - Do not connect
Reserved - Do not connect
BLACK
RED POWER +VE
POWER -VE
POWER +VE
POWER -VEBLACK
RED
FUSE
SPEAKER +VE
SPEAKER -VE
ORANGE
BLACK
LIGHT
GREEN
BROWN
GRAY
VIOLET
BLUE
BLACK
RED
I/O 2
I/O 1
INPUT 3
INPUT 2
INPUT 1
GPIO GND
EXTERNAL V IN
EXTERNAL SENSOR
-ve
-ve
OUTPUT RELAY
LIGHT
ORANGE
WHITE
DARK GREEN
YELLOW
-ve
-ve
+ve 12/24V
+ve 12/24V
+ve 12/24V
87
85
30
86
93.5mm (3 11/16”)
86mm (3 3/8”)
86mm (3 3/8”)
93.5mm (3 11/16”)
55.6mm (2 3/16”)
ø 4mm (5/32”)
DRILL / CUT DRILL X 4
ø 74.5mm (2 15/16”)
74.5mm (2 15/16”)
NMEA TX (+) A
NMEA TX (-) B
NMEA RX (+) A
NMEA RX (-) B
BLACK
BLACKNMEA 0183 COMMON
and GPIO GROUND
NMEA 0183 COMMON
(Shared with GPIO Ground)
To connect to NMEA 0183
NMEA 0183 network connection diagram
NMEA 0183 port

16
External Cellular Antenna (optional)
> After installing the Cellular
Antenna, connect the SMA
connector of the Cellular
Antenna cable to the M1 port
labeled Cloud.
> Tighten clockwise.
Do not over torque.
Cellular Antenna
The Vesper Marine External Cellular Antenna may be connected
for enhanced cellular coverage. Consider the following location
and connection requirements:
- The external cellular antenna is rated IP67 and UV stable
for external installation.
- Do not place the external cellular antenna near or in the path
of radar, HF and/or high power satellite communication (such
as Iridium Go) antennas.
- The antenna cable is terminated with an SMA connector to
facilitate easy routing through holes and openings. Do not cut
the cable without the correct tools to crimp on a new connector.
- Do not extend the antenna cable beyond the supplied
length of 5M (16').
HINT - A solid orange light on the LED indicator panel indicates
an attempt to connect to a cell tower, green indicates connection.
See LED icon troubleshooting (pg36) for further information.
External Antenna Configuration
Cortex Onboard App:
> Menu ( ) > Settings
> Device Settings > Networks > Cloud...
> Use external antenna (select on/off)
Cortex handset:
> Main Menu ( ). Touch the wrench icon ( ) to open
the Configuration Menu.
> Networks > Cloud
> Use external antenna (select on/off)
Note - The M1 includes an internal Cellular antenna for
installations where the external antenna is not required.
External Cellular Antenna mounting
Pole mount
Deck mount
on base
Vertical
surface
mount
1” 14 UNS
threaded
mast
Deck mount
flush

17
External Speaker (optional)
An optional external speaker can be connected to the M1 for
audio alarms or voice alarms using the Audio cable.
In addition, the speaker also broadcasts VHF voice when the M1
is connected to an H1 or H1P handset.
Make sure the external speaker is installed at least 1M (3ft) from
any magnetic compass or flux gate sensor and at least 1M (3ft)
from the M1 hub itself.
External Speaker wiring color codes
Orange Audio positive (+ve)
Black Audio negative (-ve)
HINT - For best audio performance, choose a speaker with a
minimum 10W audio power rating and 4 ohm impedance.
External Speaker Wiring Diagram
Audio positive (+ve)Orange
Black
Vesper Marine External Speaker
The Vesper Marine External Speaker (Part Number 111210) is
purpose designed for the marine environment.
Featuring IP66 ingress protection this speaker is suitable for
installing almost anywhere on board.
- 3” 70 Watt Speaker
- Frequency response of 80Hz-18kHz
- 4 ohm impedance
- IP66 water resistant for marine applications
- UV resistant polymer housing / Polypropylene cone
- Heavy duty molded ABS plastic basket and grill
- Pre-wired with 2m (6.5ft) of cable
SENSOR
INPUT 1
GPIO
10 PIN GPIO
+12V
I/O 1
GPIO GND
10 PIN GPIO
- 12V
+ve 12/24V
I/O 2
GPIO
10 PIN GPIO
ORANGE
WHITE
DARK GREEN
YELLOW
ORANGE
BLACK
RED
BROWN
LIGHT GREEN INPUT / OUTPUT 2
BROWN INPUT / OUTPUT 1
GRAY INPUT 3
VIOLET INPUT 2
BLUE INPUT 1
RED PULLUP VOLTAGE
NMEA TX (+) A
NMEA TX (-) B
NMEA RX (+) A
NMEA RX (-) B
AUDIO +VE
AUDIO -VE
Reserved - Do not connect
Reserved - Do not connect
BLACK
RED POWER +VE
POWER -VE
POWER +VE
POWER -VEBLACK
RED
FUSE
SPEAKER +VE
SPEAKER -VE
ORANGE
BLACK
LIGHT
GREEN
BROWN
GRAY
VIOLET
BLUE
BLACK
RED
I/O 2
I/O 1
INPUT 3
INPUT 2
INPUT 1
GPIO GND
EXTERNAL V IN
EXTERNAL SENSOR
-ve
-ve
OUTPUT RELAY
LIGHT
ORANGE
WHITE
DARK GREEN
YELLOW
-ve
-ve
+ve 12/24V
+ve 12/24V
+ve 12/24V
87
85
30
86
93.5mm (3 11/16”)
86mm (3 3/8”)
86mm (3 3/8”)
93.5mm (3 11/16”)
55.6mm (2 3/16”)
ø 4mm (5/32”)
DRILL / CUT DRILL X 4
ø 74.5mm (2 15/16”)
74.5mm (2 15/16”)
NMEA TX (+) A
NMEA TX (-) B
NMEA RX (+) A
NMEA RX (-) B
BLACK
BLACKNMEA 0183 COMMON
and GPIO GROUND
NMEA 0183 COMMON
(Shared with GPIO Ground)
External Speaker Dimensions
Side Front
Audio negative (-ve)

18
Once installation of the M1, cables and antennas are complete,
the M1 is configured using the Cortex On board App on a mobile
device (iOS or Android) or via a Cortex H1 or H1P handset.
Prior to the configuration steps, a WiFi connection must be made
between the M1 and the device used for configuration.
The M1 WiFi network will connect with up to 10 devices.
Note - The Cortex V1 package (M1+H1) ships with the handset
pre-configured to the M1.
Connecting devices to an M1
1 Turn Cortex M1 and device ON
Switch the vessel's batteries ON to power the M1.
2 Select WiFi in the settings of the device
> From the list of available WiFi, identify and select
the M1 WiFi SSID.
Note - The WiFi SSID is identified by the
M1 serial number eg: CORTEX-95211616
> Key the WiFi password found on the label
supplied with the M1.
Alternatively scan the QR code of the M1 (found
on the WiFi label) to be automatically connected.
> Join and save to connect.
> Close the WiFi setting on the device.
Note - If the supplied label is lost, the WiFi password is
found underneath the M1 on the serial label.
For further assistance please contact Vesper
Marine via [email protected].
To connect a mobile device
Place supplied
WiFi label here
Caution - The WiFi
SSID or password
cannot be changed,
please ensure the
labels do not get lost.

19
1 Turn M1 ON
Switch the vessel's batteries ON to power the M1.
2 Turn the handset ON
Press and hold the Power button for 2 seconds.
3 Select WiFi from the Status Bar
> From the list of available WiFi, identify and select
the M1 WiFi SSID.
Note - The WiFi SSID is identified by the
M1 serial number eg: CORTEX-95211616
Note - The Cortex V1 package (M1+H1) ships with
the handset pre-configured to the M1.
> Key the WiFi Password found on the label
supplied with the M1.
> Select CONNECT to save.
Text ‘connected’ will confirm the connection.
> Select the Back key to close the WiFi status
Note - To connect additional handsets to a configured M1 network
follow the To connect a handset steps above.
To connect a handset Device connection FAQs
If the device (handset or mobile device) displays 'Trying to
connect...’ for a long period, it has not made a WiFi connection to
the M1.
> Confirm the M1 is ON
> Check the WiFi signal strength on the mobile device or in
the Status Bar of the handset.
> Check the M1 WiFi External Antenna is attached.
> Consider the distance between the device and M1 on
board. Some objects and materials may provide
interference to degrade the WiFi signal strength.
> See 'Connecting to an M1' (pg18).
Follow the steps to identify and connect to the WiFi.
Note - The WiFi status icon on the M1 will illuminate
green when a handset or app makes a connection.
If the device displays 'No GPS connection!' while beeping an
alarm, touch the screen (or any key) to silence the alarm and
close this notification.
The device will then display 'Waiting for GPS...’ , the M1 has not
acquired GPS position.
> Check GPS Status in the Status Bar of the
handset (select GPS icon in the On board App).
> Check the M1 external GPS installation.
> Check the GPS icon on the M1 indicator panel.
WiFi status

20
1 Download the Cortex Onboard App
Free download from the Apple or Google Play stores
2 Turn Cortex M1 and device ON
Switch the vessel's batteries ON to power the M1
2 Connect the device to the M1 via WiFi
See Connecting to an M1 section
4 Open the app and program as follows;
> Select the Main Menu icon ( ) to open the Settings
Menu.
> Device Settings...
> Vessel...
> Identification...
> MMSI (Enter MMSI number)
> Name (Enter the vessel’s name)
> Callsign (Enter the vessel’s callsign)
> ATIS ID* (Enter the vessel's ATIS ID)
*A vessel ID for inland waterways in some European countries.
> Vessel Type (Select from the list)
To program your vessel dimensions with the Onboard App
> Select the Menu icon ( ) to open the Settings Menu.
> Device Settings...
> Vessel...
> Dimensions
> Length (Enter length overall)
> Beam (Enter beam overall)
> GPS from stern (Enter measurement)
> GPS from starboard (Enter measurement)
To program an MMSI with the Onboard App
Before an M1 can transmit your position over AIS you must
configure your vessel details and enter a valid MMSI number.
You can configure your MMSI using the Cortex Onboard App or a
Cortex handset.
Your MMSI may have been entered by your dealer. You must have
an assigned MMSI for your vessel.
If you do not have an assigned MMSI, contact the relevant
authority in your country.
Once you save the MMSI number you cannot change it. If you
need to change the MMSI, please contact an authorized dealer or
Vesper Marine.
MMSI Programming Warning
For Customers in the USA: This device must be programmed with
data corresponding to the vessel on which it will be installed.
Programming must be carried out by a Vesper Marine dealer.
The included instructions contain information on how to verify the
correct programming.
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.
MMSI programming Introduction