Automatic

Identification System
Class A
 Course Guide

In this topic, we will determine the operations

of an Class A AIS, explain the procedures of
using an Class A AIS, detailed identification of
the parts of an Class A AIS, distinguish the main
purpose of an Class A AIS to all vessels.
 What is an AIS and how

does it operates?
AIS works by taking your position and movements via the vessels’
GPS system or an internal sensor built into an AIS unit. That
information is then collated along with programmable information
from the AIS unit (e.g. Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI)
number, vessel name, destination, cargo type) and is transmitted in
the background at regular intervals whilst also receiving other
vessels AIS information. The AIS unit can have its own separate
antenna or an antenna splitter can be used from the antenna the
VHF radio transmits from. If an antenna splitter is used, it must be
an active splitter suitable for a VHF radio and AIS transponder.
This class A AIS is used by commercial ships and they operate
on 12 watts while transmitting their information typically
every 2 to 12 seconds (depending on speed or if at anchor)
with a range of 20 miles or more if the right antenna is fitted
high enough.
 Class-A AIS

AIS is included in the International Convention for the

Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention for: vessels
are: vessels of 300 gross tonnage and upwards
engaged on international voyages. vessels of 500
gross tonnage and upwards not engaged on
international voyages. passenger ships irrespective of
size.
How to use the Class-A

AIS?

LET'S WATCH THE

VIDEO
 The needs of Class-A AIS
DSC VHF - the VHF-DSC radio enables vessels to quickly transmit a
DISTRESS alert and message, digitally alerting other vessels that an
URGENCY or SAFETY message is about to be sent, and establish
contact with other vessels and coast stations discretely without hav-
ing to use Channel 16.
 The needs of Class-A AIS
GPS - provides the fastest and most accurate method for
mariners to navigate, measure speed, and determine
location.
 The needs of Class-A AIS
Rate of turn indicator - This navigational tool indicates how fast the ship is
turning at a steady rate (useful during pilotage and manoeuvring), normally
shown as a number of degrees turned. The rate a ship is turning is
measured in degrees per minute. This essential tool assists a coxswain in
steering a course safely.
 The needs of Class-A AIS
NAVTEX - is for navigational telex (navigational text messages) is a device used on
board the vessels to provide short-range Maritime Safety Information in coastal
waters automatically. It can be used in ships of all types and sizes. It was developed
to provide a low-cost, simple, and automated means of receiving informations
aboard ships at sea within approximately 200 nautical miles of shore.