Electronics Review

SI-TEX INTRODUCES NEW LINE OF ADVANCED METADATA AIS PRODUCTS FOR 2012

 Compact, Waterproof Design, Next Generation Rmax™ Technology and Plug-N-Play Connectivity Make These AIS Modules An Intelligent Choice For Any Vessel

SI-TEX Marine Electronics has added three new AIS Modules to its growing product line-up for 2012, bringing next-generation AIS technology, easy installation and reliable performance to any vessel looking to enhance safety on the water.

SI-TEX’s new Metadata AIS Module line includes three products to meet the needs of a range of boaters — a Dual Channel AIS Receiver, Class B AIS Transceiver, and AIS Antenna Splitter.   Each one utilizes a compact (5.5”X3.9”X1.9”) module that is IPx7 Waterproof rated, for flexible location and rugged performance in any marine environment.

Si-Tex AIS Dual Channel Receiver (left), Antenna Splitter (right), and Class B Transceiver (center).

The new Metadata Dual Channel AIS Receiver module features the next generation Rmax™ AIS technology, with lightning-fast processing to maximize reception range and ensure that all incoming AIS messages are received and fully decoded in real time.   This overcomes performance issues with yesterday’s first generation AIS systems in real-world marine situations — and the advantages of Rmax technology will become even more important as the number of AIS-equipped vessels increases in the future.  Designed for plug-and-play integration with chartplotters, radars, onboard PCs and other marine electronics, the Metadata Dual Channel AIS Receiver has built-in NMEA0183 and NMEA2000^® interfaces, as well as a USB interface that can be used to power the device.

The new Metadata AIS family also includes a Class B AIS Transceiver featuring an Rmax Class B engine that provides maximum range and efficient real-time AIS message processing for all message types.   Despite its compact size, the Metadata Class B Transceiver features an internal 50-channel GPS smart antenna, eliminating the need for an external GPS antenna in many installations.   It also features NMEA0183, NMEA2000 and USB connectivity for easy plug-and-play installations on recreational or commercial vessels wanting to send and receive AIS data.

Completing this new AIS product family from SI-TEX is the Metadata AIS Zero Loss Antenna Splitter, allowing for the full use of VHF communications and AIS send/receive with a single antenna.   This sophisticated antenna splitter was developed specifically for use with Class B AIS transceivers, providing optimum AIS and VHF radio performance in all situations.  Sophisticated electronics packed into this rugged, waterproof splitter ensure no loss to the received signal, maintaining existing VHF reception range and performance.   Built-in safety features such as Clear Call Routing (CCR) ensure VHF radio emergency call priority — and continued full-performance operation, even if the vessel’s power should fail.

The Metadata AIS Zero Loss Antenna Splitter is designed for easy integration with marine electronics, and can also be utilized for clear FM broadcast reception — providing onboard entertainment on the water or in port.

Metadata Class B AIS Transceiver                   MSRP $699
Metadata Dual Channel AIS Receiver              MSRP $329
Metadata AIS Antenna Splitter                          MSRP $279

For more information on SI-TEX’s new Metadata AIS Modules — or the company’s entire line of professional-grade marine electronics for recreational and commercial vessels — visit an authorized SI-TEX dealer or contact SI-TEX at 25 Enterprise Zone Drive, Suite 2, Riverhead, NY 11901.  Telephone: (631) 996-2690.  Website: www.si-tex.com