Description
em-trak B954 Class B AIS Transceiver | Boat Supply Store
Achieve superior maritime situational awareness with the em-trak B954, engineered for critical offshore operations. This Class B AIS transceiver features 5W SOTDMA, providing significantly enhanced transmission priority and extended detection range compared to standard Class B units, ensuring your vessel's critical data is broadcast with maximum reliability. Its compact, IPx7-rated enclosure houses integrated WiFi and Bluetooth modules for seamless wireless data integration with mobile devices and chartplotters, and includes an integrated VHF antenna splitter for simplified installation. Operating on 12/24V DC, its robust SRT-AIS™ Transceiver Engine is designed for demanding environments from the Gulf Coast to the open Atlantic.
Key Features
- Unrivaled Transmission Priority with 5W SOTDMA for critical offshore visibility.
- Seamless Wireless Integration via integrated WiFi and Bluetooth for mobile and chartplotter connectivity.
- Simplified Installation with an integrated VHF antenna splitter and FLEXI-FIT™ bracket.
- Global Certification ensures compliance across USCG, FCC, Canadian, and European maritime regulations.
- Enhanced Detection Range powered by the advanced SRT-AIS™ Transceiver Engine.
- Robust Weatherproofing with IPx6 and IPx7 ratings for water, pressure spray, and damp environments.
- Comprehensive Connectivity supporting both NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 networks.
- Silent Mode Operation allows transmission deactivation for stealth when necessary.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Class | Class B AIS Transceiver |
| Transmit Power | 5W SOTDMA |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Bluetooth |
| VHF Antenna Splitter | Integrated |
| GPS | Integrated GPS |
| Data Interfaces | NMEA 0183/2000 |
| Ingress Protection | IPx6/IPx7 |
| Power Input | 12/24V DC |
| VHF Connectors | SO-239 |
| GNSS Connector | TNCP |
| NMEA 2000 Connector | Micro-C |
| USB Connector | Micro-B |
| Dimensions | 150 x 115 x 45mm |
| Weight | 425g |
Who This Is For
Serious recreational boaters and offshore sailors demanding the highest transmission priority and extended range will benefit from the 5W SOTDMA. Commercial vessels requiring reliable collision avoidance and seamless data integration with onboard systems will find this transceiver indispensable.
How It Compares
| Feature | em-trak B954 Class B AIS Transceiver | Vesper Marine XB |
|---|---|---|
| AIS Class | Class B | Class B |
| Transmit Power | 5W SOTDMA | 2W, 2W |
| VHF Antenna Splitter | Integrated | External required, External required |
| WiFi Connectivity | Integrated | Integrated, None |
| Bluetooth Connectivity | Integrated | None, None |
| GPS Receiver | Internal | Internal, External required |
| NMEA 2000 | Yes | Yes, Yes |
Common Concerns Answered
What are the programming requirements for US customers?
In the United States, AIS transceivers require programming with your vessel's unique MMSI number and static data (name, call sign, vessel type) before operation, which may necessitate the assistance of a qualified marine electronics technician.
Does this unit require a separate display?
The em-trak B954 is designed to integrate with existing mobile devices via WiFi/Bluetooth or dedicated chartplotters, eliminating the need for a standalone display and streamlining your onboard electronics.
Why is the initial cost higher than basic Class B units?
The premium price reflects the advanced 5W SOTDMA technology, offering superior transmission priority and range, integrated WiFi/Bluetooth, and a built-in VHF antenna splitter, features not typically found on lower-cost, standard Class B transceivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SOTDMA and why is it important for an AIS transceiver?
SOTDMA (Self-Organizing Time Division Multiple Access) is an advanced transmission protocol that allows Class B transceivers to reserve time slots for broadcasting, significantly reducing the chance of transmission collisions and ensuring your vessel's data is sent reliably, especially in crowded waterways or high-traffic areas, which is crucial for collision avoidance.
Does the em-trak B954 require a separate VHF antenna?
No, the em-trak B954 features an integrated VHF antenna splitter, allowing it to share your existing marine VHF antenna with your VHF radio without the need for additional antennas or complex wiring.
Can I connect the em-trak B954 to my smartphone or tablet?
Yes, the integrated WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities allow the em-trak B954 to wirelessly stream AIS data directly to compatible smartphones and tablets running dedicated AIS viewing or navigation applications.
What is the advantage of having WiFi and Bluetooth on an AIS transceiver?
WiFi and Bluetooth provide seamless, wireless data connectivity to mobile devices and compatible chartplotters, eliminating the need for extensive NMEA cabling and offering flexible integration for navigation and situational awareness.
Is the em-trak B954 compatible with NMEA 2000 networks?
Yes, the em-trak B954 is fully compatible with NMEA 2000 networks, allowing for easy integration into existing marine electronic systems for data sharing with compatible displays and instruments.
