C.N.S. Systems Class A. Affordable A.I.S.

WHEELMARKED CLASS A. A.I.S. Robust inexpensive A.I.S.For All vessel sizes. Comply with the new rules with this affordable Automatic Identification System.

System Overview

The AIS concept is based upon a transponder including a VHF Transceiver, a built-in GNSS receiver and an embedded computer system to implement the unique AIS functionality.

AIS transponders are exchanging information through an advanced VHF data link network providing a reliable and secure communication channel requiring a minimum of manual involvement. Communication is performed both between ships
and between ships and shore stations.

The operation is based on several modes and includes autonomous and continuous, assigned or polled operation.
AIS provide the following main functionality:

• Surveillance - improved situational awareness
  
• Applications for Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
  
• Aids to Navigation - improved accuracy and safety by expedient update and high availability of navigational data
  
• Information distribution services, e.g. broadcast of ARPA targets, weather reports, safety related information and
  
• free text messaging

VDL 6000 is an AIS Class A system intended for ship installation and is compliant with the IMO requirements for SOLAS vessels. In addition to the VDL 6000 Transponder the system includes an external Minimum Keyboard and Display (MKD) unit for presentation of the received AIS target data, message handling and configuration of the system.
Digital radio technology has been utilised in the VDL 6000 Transponder in order to provide outstanding performance and
flexibility.

VDL 6000 interconnects with existing onboard sensor equipment such as GNSS, Gyro and optionally a Rate of Turn
(ROT) gyro via the included Connection Unit (CU). From these sensors information on position, COG, SOG, ROT,
heading etc are sent to the transponder and compiled into a position report message, which is broadcasted regularly on the VHF data link. The system also supports broadcasted or addressed transmission of text messages, and distribution of other types of information serving as a generic data link.

The system also supports connection to other onboard equipment such as radar or an ECS/ECDIS system, in order to
display the received data in a clear way. This requires however that the external equipment support AIS information.
VDL 6000 also provides additional interfaces for configuration and maintenance purposes and connection of a long-range communication device and e.g. a Pilot’s laptop.

A typical ship installation is described in Figure 1-1. The grey parts are included in the delivery of the VDL 6000 system.