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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 a mast or another VHF antenna such as on
a mast-head.
GPS Antenna Installation
The
AIS
WatchMate
has an internal GPS patch antenna facing upwards. This antenna
requires an unobstructed view of the sky. However, the performance of the internal GPS
antenna is also highly dependent on where you place your
AIS
WatchMate
. For example, you
may find that it works well under a non-metallic dodger or spray hood but performance may
be reduced if the
AIS
WatchMate
is installed on, under, or near metal structures. If you are
mounting the display in a location which will not provide adequate GPS signal coverage then
you must install a dedicated GPS antenna. You cannot share a GPS or GPS antenna.
When installing an external GPS antenna please take into consideration:
Vesper Marine has available an optional external GPS antenna designed specifically
for use with the
AIS
WatchMate. Performance cannot be assured unless you use a
Vesper Marine GPS antenna.
The GPS antenna must be kept isolated from conductive objects at all times. See the
caution notice below.
If you choose to use another GPS antenna, only use a 3.3VDC active antenna that
contains a low noise amplifier. Any damage caused by using an incompatible GPS
antenna is not covered under your warranty.
The GPS antenna should be situated so it has an unobstructed view of the sky
above.
Do not place the GPS antenna near or in the path of radar or HF antennas.
It is not necessary to change any settings when using the optional Vesper Marine
GPS antenna. Simply connect it to the TNC connector on the back of the unit.
Considerations when using the internal GPS patch antenna:
The
AIS
WatchMate should be situated so it has no metal obstructions over the top.
The antenna is located in the back “bulge” area at the top of the unit facing upwards.
Avoid placing your hand or body over the antenna area as this may reduce satellite
signal strength.
Hint:
Use the
GPS Status
screen to view satellite signal strengths which will assist in
determining the best location for the unit or antenna.
CAUTION:
Do not allow an external GPS antenna or its connectors to come in
contact with any metal objects, such as stanchions, railings, metal hull or deck,
etc. Always ensure the external GPS antenna is kept isolated from all conductive
material. You may use the plastic base or pole mounts for this purpose. Any
damage caused by a non-isolated GPS antenna installation is not covered under
warranty.
