SIMRAD AIS

[capn_billl]

I just got a SIMrad RS-40B with built in GPS, and AIS transmit & receive.

IT works great, but does NOT have an internal splitter, so you need to connect a separate AIS antenna.

My primary VHF antenna is at the top of the mast. SO where to put the AIS on a 44 Leopard?

Right now I have it on the hand rail on top of the helm, but it touches the boom when sailing downwind, and gives me a PLL error.

I don't have many good places for an antenna. The dinghy lift is in the rear, I have the forward cockpit, no backstay.

I suppose I could clamp it to the cap stay shroud, tie wrap the cable down to the chainplate, and send it through a lifeline post into the deck.

Any other suggestions?

Anyone else have this issue?

Where is yours mounted?

[smac999]

you could just buy an antenna splitter.

https://www2.vespermarine.com/antenna-splitter-sp160

[Don C L]

Do you have an arch for radar or solar panels?

[Paul L]

A separate splitter is certainly an easy solution. A separate antenna can also be used as a backup/emergency VHF antenna if needed.
You can't strap the antenna to metal stays. It needs to be clear of closeby metal like arch rails, etc, so it signal is uniform.

[NevilleCat]

Should be able to get an active AIS VHF antenna splitter which will give you the advantages of having the antenna at the top of the mast for best range.
Not cheap...probably about US$250

[Don C L]

Originally Posted by Paul L

A separate splitter is certainly an easy solution. A separate antenna can also be used as a backup/emergency VHF antenna if needed.
You can't strap the antenna to metal stays. It needs to be clear of closeby metal like arch rails, etc, so it signal is uniform.

Oh that's interesting, I didn't know that. So a big Shakespeare whip high up on an arch should NOT be used for AIS?

[capn_billl]

Simrad recommends a separate antenna. The AIS actually is tuned slightly higher than VHF, and for best results, you don't want simultaneous AIS, and a voice transmission on the same antenna at the same time. If you are a "talker", you could be stepping on your own AIS signal.

I'm thinking a 90 deg elbow will move it far enough from large vertical pieces of metal to avoid reflection, and move it out of the way of the boom.