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Installation
Requirements
The
AIS
WatchMate
requires a suitable VHF antenna which must be supplied by the user and
a clear view of the sky for the built-in GPS or an external GPS antenna.
The following are required for installation:
Various countries have regulations requiring a VHF radio license to operate an AIS
transponder. Check with your local authorities to determine the requirements for your
area.
You must have an assigned MMSI and Call Sign for your vessel. If you do not have
an assigned MMSI, contact the relevant authority in your country. You must enter a
valid MMSI number into this device.
Once you enter the MMSI number it cannot be changed. If you need to change
the MMSI, please contact an authorized dealer or Vesper Marine.
A suitable VHF antenna or Vesper Marine AIS/VHF Antenna Splitter. Performance
cannot be assured if you use any other antenna splitter. The use of an improper
splitter may damage your
AIS
WatchMate
and void your warranty.
If you are not able to mount the unit with an unobstructed view of the sky or if your
mounting location and / or other equipment interferes with the built-in GPS antenna,
then an optional external GPS antenna is required. You must use a Vesper Marine
dedicated GPS antenna which cannot be shared with any other equipment. However,
the GPS data produced by the
AIS
WatchMate
is available for use by other optional
equipment connected to the NMEA output.
Mounting the Display
Your
AIS
WatchMate
is supplied with a trunnion mounting bracket if you wish to mount it
above or below a shelf or other support. You may also mount the unit by cutting a hole in an
instrument panel and mounting it flush. Included is a template you can use to cut the hole
and drill four additional holes for the required fasteners. A gasket is also included to seal the
unit against your instrument panel.
Do not disassemble the unit or remove the screws which hold it together.
The unit is
sealed and disassembly will void the warranty. If you require service or assistance please
contact your dealer or Vesper Marine.
VHF Antenna Installation
The
AIS
WatchMate
must be connected to a suitable VHF antenna or Vesper Marine AIS/VHF
Antenna Splitter. Performance cannot be assured if you use any other antenna splitter. The
use of an improper splitter may damage your
AIS
WatchMate
and void your warranty.
When installing the VHF antenna please take into consideration:
The type of antenna should be an omnidirectional VHF antenna designed for the
marine band (156-162 MHz).
There are AIS-frequency adapted antennas available. You may also use a standard
marine VHF antenna.
The antenna must be dedicated and not connected to any other equipment.