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 and to improving safety at sea. At the same time, you 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. Too long cables 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.

Before drilling or fixing the mount, verify that there are no obstructions. Perform a "dry 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.

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.

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.

Der von JDS versendete Empfänger muss nur angeschlossen werden, denn er ist bereits vorbereitet und programmiert, um AIS-Daten zu empfangen und weiterzuleiten. Der Empfänger wird im Gebäude verbaut an einem trockenen und kühlen Ort, damit wird sichergestellt, dass das Gerät lange und zuverlässig funktioniert. In der Regel hat der Empfänger Befestigungen, um ihn sicher an eine Wand zu schrauben, damit ist es zusätzlich vor Schmutz und Feuchtigkeit geschützt.

Bei der Planung des Standortes sollte darauf geachtet werden, dass man Entfernungen eher mit einem Netzwerkkabel überbrückt und nicht mit dem Antennenkabel (Coax). Der Signalverlust ist beim Netzwerkkabel viel geringer als beim Antennenkabel, daher lassen sich damit besser längere Strecken überbrücken.

Wenn möglich, befestige den Empfänger mit Schrauben und den Haltelaschen an einem geeigneten Ort. Schließe als Erstes das Netzwerkkabel an dem mit Network und das Coax Kabel mit dem BNC Stecker an dem mit Antenna gekennzeichneten Anschluss an. Stelle sicher, dass der Netzwerkanschluss sicher eingerastet ist und das Coax Cable mit dem Bajonetanschluss fest ist.

Nun stecke das Netzteil erst am Gerät und dann in die Steckdose ein. Nun sollten die LEDs am Gerät anfangen zu leuchten.