Si-Tex AIS

teshannon · #1 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007

I'm working on my list of projects/upgrades for the winter (my post on redundant electric bilge pumps was one of them). I plan to install an AIS receiver. I've read the threads on AIS but was wondering if anyone has specific experience with Si-Tex? I like the separate display and have a second GPS antenna so it can be completely independant of my chartplotter. I'm not sure if I can use a splitter or need to install a separate antenna. BTW, Sailnet has the best price on this unit. Thanks.

thekeip · #2 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007

There's a lot of wiggle room in an AIS selection and application. You are probably aware that there are two major distinctions in the definitions of AIS: class A and class B. You can eliminate a lot of consternation over your brand / feature selection by eliminating class B from the beginning...though class B may ultimately prove to be less expensive, it's not a developed product here in the US just yet.
Class A receivers and the more sophisticated transponder based systems used (mandated, actually) by commercial vessels and others with special requirements drive the industry. You, as a small, recreational sailor needn't be concerned with the ability to tell the world who you are, where you are, where you're going and how fast, where your GPS antennas are, etc, etc, etc...a lot of information of no use from a small vessel.
So an AIS stand alone receiver will provide all the benefit you need or want and then some. It will require a VHF antenna, probably mounted high like your radio...and for the same reason, range, although that could prove to be detrimental. Sometimes you can get too many targets vying for your attention. Yes, you can split with your VHF but it's not recommended.
I have no specific experience with Sitex , but I prefer to see AIS data presented on a chartplotter...just my opinion

What ever you do, or with whom, go for it...AIS is an amazing, absolutely amazing technology

Howard Keiper

teshannon · #3 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007

Thanks. I think the Si-Tex is a Class B unit. That's pbobably why it's so affordable.

Mirari · #4 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007

I bought one these Si-tex units this past summer for a solo trip to Bermuda. Great unit! Woke me up several times to let me know of an oncoming ship. I used a seperate VHF antenna mounted on the stern rail. It was recommended that I use a seperate antenna, so I did. In a pinch you could use the AIS antenna for a backup should you loose the mast mounted VHF antenna.

teshannon · #5 (**permalink**) 12-31-2007

Mirari,
Thanks for the input. Good thought on the antenna.

RXBOT · #6 (**permalink**) 01-06-2008

Has some smart radio ais receivers ranging in price from $ 200-$500. Interesting looking gear.

teshannon · #7 (**permalink**) 01-06-2008

RX,
Thanks. I looked at Milltech and they do have some nice prices but I'll have a look again. Right now I'm thinking I want the display separate from the chartplotter just in case it should fail and so the Sitex unit with the small screen fits that bill. So far I've found Sailnet to be the cheapest. I may switch thinking however and go with the Furuno unit. More expensive but my radar and chartplotter are Furuno. Still formulating in my mind which way to go.

Freesail99 · #8 (**permalink**) 01-06-2008

Can you post the model number or a link to the unit on sailnet ?

teshannon · #9 (**permalink**) 01-06-2008

Freesail,
Click on the store link in Sailnet, then click on electronics. Search for AIs and the one I'm looking at is on the top left. The model is "AIS Radar" and the price is $494. let me know what you think.