Vesper Marine VESPVAB125 AIS AtoN (Aids-to-Navigation) User Manual

Vesper Marine Limited AIS AtoN (Aids-to-Navigation)

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Virtual AIS Beacon

Model: VAB1252

Installation & Configuration Guide

Page 2

Important Information ........................................................................................................... 4

Warnings and Cautions .......................................................................................................... 4

Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 4

Regulatory Requirements .................................................................................................. 4

Installation and Wiring ........................................................................................................... 5

Virtual AIS Beacon Connectors and Wiring ........................................................................ 5

VHF Antenna Connection (SO239) ........................................................................................................... 5

GPS Antenna Connection (TNC) ............................................................................................................... 6

Coms Connection (10 Pin) ........................................................................................................................ 6

Power Connection (2 Pin) ......................................................................................................................... 7

Mounting the Virtual AIS Beacon ....................................................................................... 7

LED Status Lights ................................................................................................................ 8

Ethernet Connection .......................................................................................................... 9

Virtual AIS Beacon Configuration Software ......................................................................... 11

Connecting a PC to the beacon ........................................................................................ 11

The Configuration Screen ................................................................................................. 12

Configuration Software Field Descriptions: ..................................................................... 13

Virtual AIS Beacon Firmware Upgrades ............................................................................... 17

NMEA Command Interface .................................................................................................. 19

AtoN Configuration .......................................................................................................... 19

Table 1 – Supported Public NMEA 0183 Sentences ............................................................................... 19

Example Configuration for a Virtual AtoN ........................................................................ 19

Valid AtoN Types .............................................................................................................. 20

Table 2 – Valid AtoN Types ..................................................................................................................... 20

Example Binary Broadcast of an Area Special Message .................................................. 21

Decoded Area Special Message .............................................................................................................. 21

Additional NMEA Output Sentences ................................................................................ 22

Table 3 – Additional NMEA Output Sentences ....................................................................................... 22

Extended AtoN Configuration .......................................................................................... 22

Table 4 – Sentences Used For Extended Configuration ......................................................................... 22

SAT – Enable GSA/GSV Output ............................................................................................................... 22

ATON,CLR – Clear all AtoN Configurations ............................................................................................. 23

ATON,PERSIST – Enable Persistence of a Mark Change ......................................................................... 23

MEB,DEL – Delete an MEB Message ...................................................................................................... 23

NWK – Enable Ethernet on Coms Port ................................................................................................... 23

Extended NMEA Outputs ................................................................................................. 24

Table 5 – Extended NMEA Output Sentences ........................................................................................ 24

ATON,CNT – AtoN Count ........................................................................................................................ 24

ATON,ADDR – Binary Message Address ................................................................................................ 24

ATON,STATS – Transmission Statistics ................................................................................................... 25

SYNC – UTC Synchronisation Details ...................................................................................................... 25

AtoN Queries .................................................................................................................... 25

Page 3

Technical Information .......................................................................................................... 26

System Specifications ....................................................................................................... 26

Technical Accuracy ............................................................................................................... 27

General Warnings ................................................................................................................. 27

Obtaining Warranty Service ................................................................................................. 28

Declaration of Conformity ...................................................................................................................... 29

Electronic Waste Recycling..................................................................................................................... 29

Copyright Notice ..................................................................................................................................... 29

Page 4

Important Information

Before installing the Virtual AIS Beacon, it is important that you read and fully understand

this guide.

Warnings and Cautions

CAUTION: Never operate this device unless it is connected to a suitable VHF antenna.

Transmitting without an antenna may damage this device.

WARNING: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Vesper Marine could void

the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

CAUTION: This device generates and radiates electromagnetic energy. This device must be

installed and operated according to the instructions contained in this manual. Failure to do

so may result in product malfunction and / or exposure to potentially harmful levels of radio

frequency radiation.

CAUTION: The system has a Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) radius of 1m from the

antenna. This has been determined assuming the maximum power of the transmitter and

using a standard half-wave monopole VHF antenna with a maximum gain of 3dBi and

termination impedance of 50 ohms.

When installing the antenna and operating the equipment consider the following:

 The antenna should be mounted as high as possible.

 Higher gain VHF antennas will require a larger MPE radius.

 Do not operate the unit when anyone is within the MPE radius of the antenna.

 The VHF antenna should not be collocated or operated in conjunction with any other

transmitting antenna.

Introduction

The Virtual AIS Beacon is a system which transmits information to assist in marking Aids to

Navigation (AtoN) at sea. It works by transmitting data as part of the Universal Ship borne

Automated Identification Systems (AIS).

Regulatory Requirements

MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity):

At least one MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is required for the Virtual AIS Beacon

to begin transmission of an Aid to Navigation (AtoN). MMSI numbers are allocated by the

maritime authority responsible for marine radio spectrum in your region.

Each AtoN you intend to transmit requires a unique MMSI.

VHF radio license:

Various countries have regulations requiring a VHF radio license to operate an AIS

transceiver. Check with your local authorities to determine the requirements for your area.

Page 5

Installation and Wiring

Virtual AIS Beacon Connectors and Wiring

VHF Antenna Connection (SO239)

The Virtual AIS Beacon must be connected to a suitable VHF antenna either sourced from

Vesper Marine or your local marine equipment supplier.

Ensure a VHF antenna is connected to the Virtual AIS Beacon before power is applied to the

beacon.

The performance of the VHF antenna is also highly dependent on the environment in which

the device is mounted. When installing the VHF antenna please take into consideration:

 Place your antenna as high as possible and at least 2-3 metres (6-10 ft) above the

water surface.

 Place your VHF antenna as far as possible from other antennas and metal structures,

especially other VHF, HF and radar antennas. It is not recommended to place the VHF

antenna directly alongside another VHF antenna.

 The type of antenna should be an omnidirectional VHF antenna designed for the

marine band (156-162 MHz).

 Ideally an AIS-frequency adapted antenna should be used however you may also use

a standard marine VHF antenna.

Page 6

GPS Antenna Connection (TNC)

The Virtual AIS Beacon is provided with an external GPS antenna. This

antenna requires an unobstructed view of the sky. You cannot share

this GPS antenna with other equipment.

The performance of the GPS antenna is highly dependent on the

environment in which the antenna is mounted. The antenna

performance may be reduced if the antenna is under or near large

metal structures.

When installing the external GPS antenna please take into

consideration:

 Ensure the antenna connector is isolated from metal at all times.

 Do not place the GPS antenna near or in the path of radar or HF antennas.

 The GPS antenna should be situated so it has an unobstructed view of the sky above.

 Any damage caused by using an incompatible GPS antenna is not covered under your

warranty.

Coms Connection (10 Pin)

A 2m (6.5') data cable with a female DB9 plug is supplied with the Virtual AIS Beacon to

connect to the Coms Port. An additional 2m (6.5’) Ethernet cable with RJ45 plugs is provided

to support network connectivity for Ethernet-enabled devices. You may extend these cables

as necessary. Firmware upgrades can be carried out using this port. The data cable color

code is as follows,

Yellow

Com Port

(RS232)

RS232 Common

Green

RS232 data in

Gray

RS232 data out

Brown

Com Port

(Ethernet)

Ethernet TX+

Blue

Ethernet TX-

Black

Ethernet RX+

Orange

Ethernet RX-

Red

Do Not Connect (recovery)

Pink

Do Not Connect (recovery)

GPIO Connection (16 Pin)

A 2m (6.5') cable with bare wire leads is supplied with the Virtual AIS Beacon to connect to

the GPIO Port. You may extend this cable as necessary. The GPIO cable color code is as

follows,

Blue

GPIO Port

RS232 data in

Brown

RS232 data out

RS232 Common

Page 7

Power Connection (2 Pin)

The Virtual AIS Beacon has a 2 pin plug for 12 VDC,

peak 4.5A, nominal 0.25A.

Depending on shipping destination a short circuit

protected and isolated ground 12VDC 5A AC/DC

power pack with a regional IEC power cable may also

be supplied.

Mounting the Virtual AIS Beacon

The Virtual AIS Beacon has footprint dimensions as detailed below and a height of 90mm.

The device is mounted by using the fixing lugs. Drill holes in the mounting surface using the

lugs as a guide. Fasten with appropriate length screws.

Caution: Do not disassemble the unit or remove the screws which hold the Virtual AIS

Beacon together. The unit is sealed and disassembly will void the warranty. If you require

service or assistance please contact Vesper Marine.

Page 8

LED Status Lights

Once the VHF antenna, GPS antenna and the power is connected the

Virtual AIS Beacon can be turned on. The LED lights on the front panel

have the following states:

POWER

Green: The Virtual AIS Beacon has power.

GPS STATUS

Blue Flashing: GPS acquiring a fix and/or sync to UTC time (can take up to

12mins to get a sync)

Blue: GPS fixed and synchronized to UTC time

TRANSMIT

Green Flash: On an AIS transmission.

Red: Built in integrity check error. Typically this would indicate a bad

antenna connection.

NETWORK

Orange: Link established.

Green Flashing: Network connection active.

(optional – only applies to Ethernet enabled devices)

Page 9

Ethernet Connection

An Ethernet enabled (optional) Virtual AIS Beacon is configured to both automatically

connect to a Vesper Marine secure server and to accept an incoming TCP connection on port

39150. It will use DHCP by default, so once connected to your network it will be

automatically assigned an IP address. Once the IP address is found (by a network query or by

checking your router address table) its status can be queried on port 80 using an internet

browser. On a successful connection you will see the following web page,

Page 10

To change the port and protocol used by the accept mode, navigate to the Tunnel Accept

Mode page,

Telnet and TCP are the only protocols supported in accept mode. The TCP accept mode IP

address and port combination can be used to connect to the Virtual AIS Beacon using the

configuration software as described in the following section. You must ensure the Virtual AIS

Beacon is configured to use the Ethernet port (default) instead of the serial port. To toggle

between the two modes of operation use the NWK command as described in the NMEA

Command Interface section.

Page 11

Virtual AIS Beacon Configuration Software

To use the Virtual AIS Beacon configuration software you will need a connection between

the PC and the Virtual AIS Beacon device. Once you are connected the configuration

software will allow you to view existing AtoN’s that are configured (if any). Configuring and

uploading AtoN’s is carried out by entering information into each of the fields for each

individual Virtual or Synthetic AtoN. AtoN’s are added, edited or deleted and then uploaded

to the Virtual AIS Beacon by using the Upload button.

Connecting a PC to the beacon

Before connecting the Virtual AIS Beacon to a PC install the vmBeacon software. Once this

process is completed open the vmBeacon program and follow the steps below to connect

the PC to the Virtual AIS Beacon.

1. Connect the beacon to your PC using the DB9 plug, connected to a Serial to USB adaptor

(not included). If you are using an Ethernet-enabled device to connect to your network,

connect the RJ45 plug to your PC.

2. With the vmBeacon program running select the appropriate com and then click the

Connect Button. Once connected all currently defined AtoN’s (if any) are displayed.

Or, if connecting via Ethernet enter the IP address and Port in these two fields.

Page 12

The Configuration Screen

Adding a new AtoN is done by clicking the Add Button.

Deleting a single AtoN is done by selecting an individual AtoN then

clicking the Delete Button.

Deleting All AtoN’s is done by clicking the Delete All button and

confirming this action.

Uploading AtoN’s to the beacon is done by clicking the Upload Button.

The Help Button can be used to access this documentation.

Backing Up the beacon can be carried out by using the Backup Button

and saving the configuration to file.

Restoring a beacon’s configuration is carried out by clicking the Restore

Button and selecting the backup file that you wish to restore the beacon

with. The Upload button must be used to load AtoN’s into the beacon

once the restore procedure has been completed.

Page 13

Configuration Software Field Descriptions:

Beacon Information Fields (Read only)

Beacon information is shown for reference in the following fields; Model, H/W Rev, Serial

Number, Version, etc.

Max Mark Field (Read only)

This field shows the maximum number of AtoN’s the beacon can have. The Virtual AIS

Beacon requires AtoN Mark Licenses to be purchased, the Max Marks field will show the

number of licenses each beacon currently has. Additional AtoN Mark Licenses can be

purchased in blocks. It is possible to have up to 65 AtoN marks however this is dependent on

the reporting interval and the mode selected for each AtoN.

Marks In Use Field (Read only)

The number in this field indicates the number of AtoN marks currently configured on the

beacon. This field will be updated once the Upload Button is clicked.

VDL Load Field (Read only)

This is an indication of the VHF Data Link load. This number cannot exceed 0.5%. If you

configure AtoN marks and the VDL Load exceeds 0.5% you must change the Mode, increase

the Transmission Interval or remove AtoN’s before you are able to Upload to the beacon.

MMSI Field

An MMSI is a Maritime Mobile Service Identity, used to identify each AtoN. All Virtual AIS

Beacon AtoN marks require a unique MMSI. An AtoN will not be updated to the beacon until

a valid MMSI is set.

Note: MMSI numbers may be allocated by the maritime authority responsible for marine

radio spectrum in your region.

Page 14

Type Field

This is a list of AtoN types as defined in IALA Recommendation A-126 – the use of the

Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) in Marine Aids to Navigation Services. Options are:

Type of AtoN is not specified

Reference point

RACON

Fixed structure off shore,

Reserved for future use

Light, without sectors

Light, with sectors

Leading Light Front

Leading Light Rear

Beacon, Cardinal N

Beacon, Cardinal E

Beacon, Cardinal S

Beacon, Cardinal W

Beacon, Port hand

Beacon, Starboard hand

Beacon, Preferred Channel port hand

Beacon, Preferred Channel starboard hand

Beacon, Isolated danger

Beacon, Safe water

Beacon, Special mark

Cardinal Mark N

Cardinal Mark E

Cardinal Mark S

Cardinal Mark W

Port hand Mark

Starboard hand Mark

Preferred Channel Port hand

Preferred Channel Starboard hand

Isolated danger

Safe Water

Special Mark

Light Vessel / LANBY/Rigs

Name Field

You must name each AtoN to facilitate easier identification. This name will be visible to any

vessel with AIS receiving equipment in range of the Virtual AIS Beacon.

Latitude and Longitude Fields

The exact location of the AtoN should be entered in these fields.

Mode Field

This field allows each AtoN to be configured to use transmission Mode A, B or C.

Mode A allows an AtoN message to be sent on both channels with each AtoN message

alternating channels. Mode B sends the message on both channels during each interval. It

is important to note that although using Mode A allows more AtoN marks to be transmitted

from a Virtual AIS Beacon each AtoN message is only transmitted over one channel in each

reporting interval not two channels as they are in Mode B. Because Mode B uses both

channels for the same message it provides the best probability of reception (see diagram

below).

Mode C provides an option to send the messages on one channel only. When configuring

this mode options are; C1 (channel 1) or C2 (channel 2). This mode is the least likely of the

three modes to be used.

Page 15

Reporting Interval 1

Reporting Interval 2

Reporting Interval 3

Mode A

Ch 1

▌

Ch 2

▌

Mode B

Ch 1

▌

Ch 2

▌

Mode C

Ch 1

▌

Ch 2

TDMA Field

This field specifies how the slots will be allocated for transmission of AtoN messages. The

two allowed Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) schemes are Fixed Access TDMA

(FATDMA) and Random Access TDMA (RATDMA).

In RATDMA the slots are not pre-announced. The beacon will choose a random slot based on

perceived free slots.

In FATDMA slots are fixed and pre-announced by a base station. These slots must be

retrieved from a Competent Authority for VDL slot management.

Note: FATDMA is disabled by default. Contact Vesper Marine if FATDMA is required for your

application.

TX Interval Field

This field is entered as seconds (30sec to 720sec) and sets the time intervals for each AtoN

signal (Message 21) to be transmitted. The recommended and default interval is 180

seconds.

The reporting interval should be chosen so that vessels receive an appropriate number of

signals (Messages 21) before coming into close proximity of the AtoN.

Factors to take into account are:

 Vessels likely speed of approach to the AtoN

 Topology, for examples vessels approaching from around a headland

 Importance or critical nature of AtoN

 Nominal transmission range

Page 16

UTC Field

This field allows configuration of the time schedule the AtoN messages keep.

RATDMA does not require UTC time or the start slots to be defined, since they are

automatically allocated. For FATDMA, the UTC hour, minute and start slot index must be

provided. The valid start slot range is 0 to 2249.

The Channel TX Interval can be provided in slot units (2250 slots per minute). It corresponds

to the reporting interval for modes B and C. For mode A, the Channel Transmission Interval is

double of the Reporting Interval, as depicted in the figure below.

Channel Transmission Interval 1

Channel Transmission Interval 2

Reporting Interval 1

Reporting Interval 2

Reporting Interval 3

Reporting Interval 4

Mode A

Ch 1

▌

Ch 2

▌

Information provided in these fields must be consistent to the configured transmission

mode. For this reason, some fields for each channel on modes A and B must match. This is

enforced automatically.

The following figure shows a typical FATDMA configuration for operation on mode A with a 5

minute reporting interval. Each channel is configured with a Channel TX Interval of 10

minutes. A UTC minute offset of 5 minutes is automatically added to allow the alternated

transmissions to be spaced 5 minutes apart.

Page 17

Synthetic Field

This field provides an option to set the AtoN as a Synthetic or a Virtual Aid to Navigation. A

Synthetic Aid to Navigation indicates the position of a physical marker, i.e. channel markers,

lateral marker etc. A Virtual Aid to Navigation indicates the position of a location where no

physical marker exists such as a submerged rock or virtual shipping lanes.

TX Count and Seconds Field

These fields are for information purposes and

are not editable. The transmission count for

each AtoN is displayed for each channel. In

addition, the number of seconds that has

elapsed since the last transmission is

displayed.

Virtual AIS Beacon Firmware Upgrades

To upgrade the VAB1252 firmware use Vesper Marine’s ‘Status & Firmware Update’ tool. The

connection process is the same as described above for the Beacon Configuration software.

Connect the device to a PC using the DB9 plug or Ethernet, and select the appropriate com

port (or IP address and com port for Ethernet enabled devices) and press connect. The

model, serial no., AIS version etc. fields will populate once the device has successfully

connected.

Page 18

Once connected, click on the ‘Firmware Upgrade’ tab. From this tab you can browse for the

new version of Firmware you wish to upload to the device and load it.

Once the new firmware has been loaded your device will automatically reboot.

Page 19

NMEA Command Interface

The Virtual AIS Beacon supports the NMEA-0183 (v4.10) command interface. All commands

start with a formatter such as $XXAID or !XXABM. The first two XX characters indicate the

talker ID and are ignored by the Virtual AIS Beacon, so can be set to the caller’s preference.

AtoN Configuration

The Virtual AIS Beacon supports the programming of its virtual AtoN marks using the

standard NMEA-0183 (v4.10) sentences. The corresponding legacy sentences as defined in

IEC 62320 Appendix A are also supported as indicated in Table 1.

Full sentence details can be obtained from the NMEA-0183 v4.10 standard. Note not all the

sentences will respond to a query as indicated by the queryable column.

Table 1 – Supported Public NMEA 0183 Sentences

Formatter

Description

Queryable

IEC

62320

AID

AtoN Identification Configuration

Yes

ACF

General AtoN Station Configuration

Yes

ACG

Extended General AtoN Station Configuration

Yes

ACE

CBR

Configure Broadcast Rates for AtoN Station

Messages

Yes

AAR

MEB1

Message Input for Broadcast

VER

Version details

Yes

BBM

Binary Broadcast Message

ABM

Addressed Binary Broadcast Message

Note 1: MEB is used to set the message contents. Five MEB payloads may be stored. The

corresponding CBR is used to determine the broadcast rates for the stored message.

After a command has been issued the Virtual AIS Beacon will respond with an OK or ERR

sentence to indicate a success or failure.

Examples: $PVSP,OK*2D

$PVSP,ERR,NOT FOUND*63

Example Configuration for a Virtual AtoN

A Beacon Cardinal N mark named VIRT ATON with an MMSI of 995121006 at position 36°

50.9866 S, 174° 45.1895 E on a mode A reporting interval of 3 minutes would be set on a

Virtual AIS Beacon with a serial number of GZ12345 using:

$ABAID,GZ12345,1,995121007,V,C*5B

$ABACG,995121006,00,,,,0,VIRT ATON,0000000000,C*05

$ABACF,995121006,7,3650.9866,S,17445.1895,E,1,,,,,,09,1,C*06

$ABCBR,995121006,21,0,0,0,1682,13500,1,0,3,1682,13500,C*0F

Page 20

To configure the same AtoN with mode B timing at an interval of 3 minutes:

$ABCBR,995121006,21,0,0,0,1832,6750,1,0,0,1982,6750,C*07

To configure the same AtoN with mode C timing at an interval of 3 minutes:

$ABCBR,995121006,21,0,0,0,2132,6750,1,0,0,-1,0,C*27

Valid AtoN Types

The AtoN Type is defined in the ACF sentence and can be set to any one of the types shown

in Table 2. See ITU-R M.1371.4 Table 71 for additional details.

Table 2 – Valid AtoN Types

Type of AtoN not specified (default)

Reference point

RACON

Fixed structure (eg. oil platforms, wind farms)

Reserved for future use

Light, without sectors

Light, with sectors

Leading light front

Leading light rear

Beacon, Cardinal N

Beacon, Cardinal E

Beacon, Cardinal S

Beacon, Cardinal W

Beacon, Port hand

Beacon, Starboard hand

Beacon, Preferred channel port hand

Beacon, Preferred channel starboard hand

Beacon, Isolated danger

Beacon, Safe water

Beacon, Special mark

Cardinal mark N

Cardinal mark E

Cardinal mark S

Cardinal mark N

Port hand mark

Starboard hand mark

Preferred channel port hand

Preferred channel starboard hand

Isolated danger

Safe Water

Special mark

Light vessel / LANBY/ Rigs

Page 21

Note the AtoN must be added to the Virtual AIS Beacon using AID before any of the other

configuration sentences can be used. The AtoN must have a valid and unique MMSI and

must be set as a virtual AtoN.

To delete the AtoN use the AID sentence with the delete flag set:

$ABAID,GZ12345,0,995121007,V,C*5A

Example Binary Broadcast of an Area Special Message

To initiate an addressed or broadcast binary message a base MMSI must be loaded into the

Virtual AIS Beacon. This MMSI will support the transmission of BBM, ABM, and MEB

sentence encapsulated data. There can only be one base MMSI and it cannot be used to

transmit a position report.

A transmission will return an ABK to acknowledge the message has been sent and a VDO

with contents of the transmitted message.

For example to add a base MMSI 995121000 to send an ASM BBM (Message 8):

$ABAID,GZ12345,1,995121000,R,C*58

!ABBBM,2,1,0,0,8,05H0180iqwwv77t6JAC`e000000pwPHR:O7p0000077ugDAD<g000000pw,0*0C

!ABBBM,2,2,0,0,8,irR:OQH0000077v5pACt;000000,4*05

Decoded Area Special Message

DAC

Msg Link ID

Notice Desc

Month, Day

Hour

Minute

Duration

262143

Scale factor

Precision

-122.4670

37.8073

-122.4688

37.8160

-122.4110

37.8265

-122.3940

37.8177

-122.3990

37.8045

Page 22

Additional NMEA Output Sentences

In addition to the sentences in Table 1 the following standard NMEA 0183 outputs are

supported by the Virtual AIS Beacon. These may be output automatically or in response to a

query or command.

Table 3 – Additional NMEA Output Sentences

Formatter

Description

GGA

Global Positioning System Fix Data

RMC

Recommended Minimum Specific GNSS Data

GLL

Geographic Position – Latitude/Longitude

GSA

GNSS DOP and Active Satellites

GSV

GNSS Satellites In View

VTG

Course Over Ground & Ground Speed

TXT

Text Transmission

VDO

AIS VHF Data-Link Own Report

VDM

AIS VHF Data-link Message

ABK

AIS Addressed and Binary Broadcast Acknowledgement

MEB

Message Input for a Broadcast Command

Full sentence details can be obtained from the NMEA-0183 v4.10 standard.

Extended AtoN Configuration

In addition to the standard configuration sentences the Virtual AIS Beacon also supports an

extended set of commands that start with $PVSP formatter. The supported sentences are

summarized in Table 4.

Table 4 – Sentences Used For Extended Configuration

Formatter

Description

Queryable

SAT

Enable/Disable GPS Satellite Output

ATON,CLR

Clear all AtoN Configurations

ATON,PERSIST

Enable/Disable Persistence of a Mark Change

Yes

MEB,DEL

Delete a Stored MEB

NWK

Enable/Disable Ethernet on Coms Port

SAT – Enable GSA/GSV Output

Enable or disable (default) the output of GSA & GSV sentences to reduce the serial data

stream.

Returns: $PVSP,OK*2D

Example: $PVSP,SAT,1*72

Format: $PVSP,SAT,x

x 0=disable GSA/GSV output, 1=enable

Page 23

ATON,CLR – Clear all AtoN Configurations

Delete all AtoN’s. No further transmissions will occur until new AtoN’s are created.

Returns: $PVSP,OK*2D

Example: $PVSP,ATON,CLR*4C

ATON,PERSIST – Enable Persistence of a Mark Change

Enable (default) or disable the persistence of changes that are made to marks through an

ACF. Disabling will prevent the changes from being written to the EEPROM memory. This is

useful to avoid wear on the EEPROM memory in cases where changes to the position of a

mark are frequent and changes are not required to be preserved over a power cycle.

Returns: $PVSP,OK*2D

Example: $PVSP,ATON,PERSIST,1*56

Format: $PVSP,ATON,PERSIST,x

x 0=disable EEPROM writes, 1=enable

MEB,DEL – Delete an MEB Message

Delete a stored MEB payload. To delete all stored MEBs omit an optional parameter.

Returns: $PVSP,OK*2D

Example: $PVSP,MEB,DEL,990000123,14,4*2F (Delete msg 14 index 4)

Example: $PVSP,MEB,DEL,990000123*1E (Delete all 990000123 msgs)

Example: $PVSP,MEB,DEL*02 (Delete all)

Format: $PVSP,SAT,xxxxxxxxx,x,x

xxxxxxxxx MMSI (optional)

x Msg ID (optional)

x Msg Index (optional)

NWK – Enable Ethernet on Coms Port

Enable (default with Ethernet option) or disable Ethernet on the Coms port. This command

cannot be sent when using the Ethernet connection, but can always be sent over a serial

RS232 connection on either the Coms or the GPIO port.

Returns: $PVSP,OK*2D

Example: $PVSP,NWK,1*66

Format: $PVSP,NWK,x

x 0=disable Ethernet (use RS232), 1=enable Ethernet

Page 24

Extended NMEA Outputs

In addition to the sentences in Table 4 the following extended NMEA 0183 outputs are

supported by the Virtual AIS Beacon. These all begin with the $PVSP formatter and may be

output automatically or in response to a query or command.

Table 5 – Extended NMEA Output Sentences

Formatter

Description

Queryable

ATON,CNT

AtoN Count

ATON,ADDR

Binary Message Address

ATON,STATS

Transmission Statistics

Yes

SYNC

UTC Synchronization Details

Yes

ATON,CNT – AtoN Count

Reports the active and maximum number of AtoN’s currently configured.

Example: $PVSP,ATON,CNT,6,10*7F

Format: $PVSP,ATON,CNT,x,x

x Count of currently configured AtoN’s

x Maximum number of licensed AtoN’s

ATON,ADDR – Binary Message Address

Reports the the address that will be used by the Virtual AIS Beacon when a base MMSI is

configured for broadcasting an addressed binary message.

Example: $PVSP,ATON,ADDR,0*1E

Format: $PVSP,ATON,ADDR,xxxxxxxxx

xxxxxxxxx MMSI to use as the address

Page 25

ATON,STATS – Transmission Statistics

Returns the total transmission count for a given AtoN and the slot count at the last

successful transmission.

Example: $PVSP,ATON,STATS,512996001,0,0,0,0*4D

Format: $PVSP,ATON,STATS,xxxxxxxxx,x,x,x,x

xxxxxxxxx MMSI

x Channel 1 TX count

x Channel 1 last TX slot

x Channel 2 TX count

x Channel 2 last TX slot

Note: This information together with the SYNC output can be used to determine the exact

UTC time of the last transmission on each channel.

This sentence may be queried with $--ANQ,ATON,STATS for all MMSI’s or $--

ANQ,ATON,STATS,xxxxxxxxx for a single MMSI.

SYNC – UTC Synchronisation Details

Reports the slot frame to UTC synchronization details for the Virtual AIS Beacon.

Example: $PVSP,SYNC,0,0,NONE*08

Format: $PVSP,SYNC,x,x,x

x UTC Hour of frame sync

x UTC Minute of frame sync

x The slot count at the frame sync. NONE is reported if it is

not currently synchronized.

AtoN Queries

A query is initiated using the formatter $XXANQ followed by the sentence to be queried.

Note XX is ignored by the Virtual AIS Beacon so can be set to the callers preference.

For example to query all the configured marks MMSI details:

$VMANQ,AID*25

For a complete summary of the AtoN details query ATON:

$VMANQ,ATON*7D

This returns the following sentences: ATON,CNT ATON,ADDR SYNC followed by the following

for each AtoN: AID ACF ACG CBR ATON,STATS

Page 26

Technical Information

System Specifications

Access mode

RATDMA or FATDMA

Transmission mode

Type 3 AtoN operates in mode A, B or C

Radio frequency

156.025 to 162.025 MHz

AtoN marks

Maximum of 65 (dependent on purchased configuration)

Message formats

ITU-R M.1371 - Message 6, 8, 12, 14, 21

Number of transmitters

1 x AIS

Number of receivers

2 AIS / 1 GPS (50 channel with SBAS)

AIS receive Sensitivity

-113dBm

GPS receiver sensitivity

-142 dBm acquisition. -159 dBm tracking

Power supply

10-16 VDC. AC/DC isolated power pack 12V, 5A

Transmission power output

41 dbm (12.5W)

GPS antenna connector

TNC connector

VHF antenna connector

S0239 connector. 50 ohm, max 2:1 VSWR

Power connector

2 pin circular

Coms connector

10 pin circular

GPIO connector

16 pin circular

Serial data

2 x RS232

Operating temperature

-25°C to +55°C (-13°F to 131°F)

Water tightness

IP67

Size

162mm by 122mm by 90mm high - excluding mounting lugs

(6.32” x 4.8” x 3.54” high)

Power consumption

Standard model: 3W nominal, 52W peak (12VDC)

Ethernet model: 4W nominal, 52W peak (12VDC)

GPS antenna

Construction: IPx7 sealed enclosure with 10m (32.8 ft) RG58U cable and

preinstalled TNC connector. Includes pole (standard 1”x14 marine) and

base mount.

Dimensions: 90mm (3 1/2") diameter x 118mm (4 2/3") height when used

with base mount

Compliance

* ITU-R M.1371, Technical characteristics for an automatic identification system

using time-division multiple access in the VHF maritime mobile band

* IEC 62320-5, Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) – Part 2, AIS AtoN Stations –

Operational and performance requirements, method of testing and required test

results

* IEC 61108 - "Maritime navigation and radio communication equipment and

systems - Global positioning system performance standards"

* IEC 61162 - "Maritime navigation and radio communication equipment and

systems - Digital interfaces"

*EN 60945 - "Maritime navigation and radio communication equipment and

systems - Durability and resistance to environmental conditions“

* IALA Recommendation O – 143: On Virtual Aids to Navigation

* IALA Recommendation A-126: On The Use of the Automatic Identification System

(AIS) in Marine Aids to Navigation Services

* NMEA 0183, Standard For Interfacing Marine Electronic Devices

Vesper Marine is committed to continuously improving our products. As a result, specifications may change and there may

also be differences between the product and this manual.

Page 27

Technical Accuracy

The information contained in this document is to the best of our knowledge correct at the

time of publication. However, we reserve the right to change specifications, installation and

operating instructions without notice as part of our ongoing product development and

improvement programs.

No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in this document, or any other

document provided by Vesper Marine Ltd, although every effort has been made to ensure it

is as complete and accurate as possible.

General Warnings

The Virtual AIS Beacon works in cooperation with other vessels and systems such as AIS

transceivers, VHF and GPS. The accuracy of this device and the AIS system can be affected by

many factors, including equipment failure or defects, environmental conditions and incorrect

installation. Vesper Marine does not warrant that this product is error-free. It is the user’s

responsibility to exercise common prudence and care when configuring and using the Virtual

AIS Beacon.

Vesper Marine Limited cannot be held liable for any injury, damage or loss caused by,

during, or because of the installation, use or inability to use this Virtual AIS Beacon. The

Virtual AIS Beacon is to be installed and used entirely at your own risk. By installing and/or

using the Virtual AIS Beacon you fully accept this risk and agree to hold Vesper Marine

Limited harmless.

Page 28

Obtaining Warranty Service

To obtain warranty service, please contact us. If you are unable to contact Vesper Marine

directly, then contact the dealer where you purchased the unit. You must have the original

sales receipt.

Vesper Marine Ltd.

45 Sale Street, Freemans Bay

PO Box 91164, Victoria Street West

Auckland 1142

New Zealand

Phone: +64 (0)9 950 4848

Fax: +64 (0)9 950 4085

www.vespermarine.com

support@vespermarine.com

You must contact Vesper Marine and obtain a return authorization before returning

equipment for repair.

Page 29

Declaration of Conformity

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two

conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must

accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired

operation.

Vesper Marine declares that this product is in compliance with the essential requirements

and other provisions of the R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC.

For details and a copy of the Declaration of Conformity see

www.vespermarine.com/compliance.

This product is for use worldwide, including the following countries:

Electronic Waste Recycling

Various regional and national regulations exist regarding the recycling of certain

electronics. Please consult your local authorities or contact Vesper Marine for

recycling information.

Unless otherwise indicated, all documentation and operating software contained within this

product or distributed with this product is copyrighted by Vesper Marine Ltd. All rights are

reserved.

Except for short quotations in a review, no portions of this document or the software

contained within this product may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any

means without prior written permission of Vesper Marine Ltd.

Portions of this product may use software licensed under the GNU GPL or a modified GPL.

Source code for the applicable software is available upon request from Vesper Marine Ltd.

VAB1252-150922

Vesper Marine VESPVAB125 AIS AtoN (Aids-to-Navigation) User Manual

Vesper Marine Limited AIS AtoN (Aids-to-Navigation)

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