This guide will help you install an AIS station. It applies to hardware that is provided to you as well as to stations that you build yourself. An AIS station always consists of an antenna, an AIS receiver, and the appropriate cables.

Your station receives radio signals from ships in your area. It does not transmit anything actively, and it does not generate any harmful radiation. You contribute to making ships visible to improve safety at sea and support research and innovation. With your station, you are part of a global community.

This guide describes the ideal way to install your station. This may not always be fully possible, for example, if obstacles are in the way or if the antenna cannot be mounted in the best position. The more you follow the recommendations given here, the better your station will receive vessels in your area. Always make sure that the setup is safe and that you do not take unnecessary risks during installation.

The location of the antenna is one of the most important factors. The antenna should always be installed outdoors, because reception inside a building is reduced. The higher the antenna is placed, the better. Vessels and stations rely on a clear line of sight, so a high mounting position allows the antenna to receive signals from a much larger distance. Trees, buildings, or hills can block or weaken the signal. Make sure there are as few obstacles as possible in the area around the antenna.

In most situations, antennas can be mounted on a mast, a handrail, or directly on a wall. If this is not possible, there are side-mounted brackets that allow installation even when there is no suitable mounting point. For very thick masts, there are adapters that make the installation possible. Before you order the station or receive the equipment, it is a good idea to decide exactly where the antenna will be installed. This has a direct impact on the coax cable length between the antenna and the receiver. The cable should be as short as needed but long enough for the installation. Cables that are too long weaken the signal.

The antenna should not be placed at the highest point in the entire area. This reduces the risk during thunderstorms. Make sure there are no high-voltage power lines nearby and that the antenna is securely fixed so that wind cannot loosen it. If there are transmitting antennas in the area, keep a minimum distance of one meter. This helps to ensure clean and stable AIS reception.

1. Mounting Bracket

It is easier to install the mounting bracket first and then attach the antenna to it.

Before drilling or fixing the mount, verify that there are no obstructions. Perform a "test run" to ensure the bracket and antenna fit in the intended location without issues. For the JDS antennas, we provide specific information for the installation process.

CX4 antenna and mounting bracket

2. Connecting the Cable

Connect the coaxial cable to the antenna and route it to the receiver.

Use self-amalgamating tape or similar protection to seal the connection.

This is crucial to prevent water ingress, which can damage the equipment over time.

Tape is shipped with every JDS station. Remove the protective film from the unrolled tape and wrap it around the antenna connector, starting from the plug and moving downward toward the cable. As soon as the tape touches itself, you will notice it beginning to bond. Ensure that the tape overlaps to prevent water ingress. You can pull the tape slightly while wrapping it around the connection. This allows the tape to follow the contours perfectly.

Make sure that the cable does not hang loosely against the wall or mast. Wind can cause the cable to swing and chafe against sharp edges, leading to insulation damage. Use cable ties to secure the cable along its path to prevent movement.

The receiver sent by JDS is pre-configured and programmed to receive and forward AIS data, meaning it only needs to be connected. To ensure long-term and reliable operation, the receiver should be installed indoors in a dry and, if possible, cool location. Typically, the receiver is equipped with mounting brackets for secure wall installation, providing additional protection against dirt and moisture.

When planning the installation site, please note that longer distances should be covered using a network cable rather than an antenna cable (coax). Signal loss is significantly lower with network cables, making them much better suited for bridging long distances.

If possible, secure the receiver at a suitable location using screws and the mounting brackets.

First, connect the network cable to the port labeled "Network" and the coax cable with the BNC connector to the port labeled "Antenna." Ensure that the network connector has clicked securely into place and that the coax cable is firmly attached via the bayonet mount.

Next, plug the power supply unit into the device first, and then into the wall outlet. The LEDs on the device should now begin to light up.

Further details regarding the device you received can be found here:

Comar R450-D

Congratulations, it is done, and you should now receive AIS data. Check the receiving LEDs to be sure that you receive data. Otherwise, contact the support.