Ocean Signal is introducing the ATA100 Class A AIS Transponder, a combined SOLAS and Inland approved solution capable of exchanging dynamic and static ship data with other AIS systems to aid collision-avoidance and improve safety for both recreational and commercial vessels.

Developed to meet the latest IMO carriage requirements and IEC standards, the new device incorporates Ocean Signal’s trusted technology within a compact design which is easy to use and simple to install.

The ATA100 is the only Class A AIS transponder available rated to the IPX7 waterproofing standard and features a 7-inch high-intensity, full-colour, rapid-response LCD to clearly display real-time marine traffic information. The coastline map and radar views have various orientation display options, whilst a standard target list display can be customised according to preference to provide immediate detailed information about nearby vessels.

The Ocean Signal Class A AIS is user intuitive, featuring large illuminated keys and easy-to-grip jog stick. The simple-to-use AIS message-sending functionality ensures safety related messages can be quickly delivered or received by the user, while an instant message and alarm function provides immediate notification of any potential problems or hazards.

Occupying a minimal amount of bridge space, the ATA100 is supplied with pilot plug and is suitable for either flush panel or free standing mounting for easy installation into almost any position or location.

Data such as location, speed over ground and course over ground is calculated automatically using the integrated 99-channel GPS receiver, while the static and voyage related data such as MMSI, call sign and identity, type of ship, destination and ETA is effortlessly programmed into the AIS transponder via a user-friendly intuitive menu interface.

Neil Jordan, Managing Director, Ocean Signal, said: “The ATA100 combines our proven technical know-how with the fluid product design Ocean Signal’s customers have come to expect to create a fully compliant, single unit solution which is easy to use and install on a wide range of vessels. It has been meticulously designed to allow operators to access and interpret the information provided by AIS to simplify navigation and improve safety, with intuitive operation and features such as the large clear display, versatile mounting options and easy-to-grip jog stick.”

As expected, this new Class A unit is compatible with Ocean Signal’s award-winning rescueME MOB1 man overboard AIS/DSC device and is programmable to accommodate up to 30 MOB units, providing immediate notification in the event that a MOB1 should be activated.

The ATA100 Class A AIS Transponder is the latest product offering in Ocean Signal’s comprehensive portfolio of essential sea-safety equipment developed and manufactured in the UK for the recreational and commercial maritime market. It adds to the rescueME range of devices, including the rescueME MOB1, PLB1 and EDF1, and the SafeSea range of GMDSS products, including the E100 and E100G EPIRB, S100 SART and V100 handheld VHF radio, as well as the M100 and M100X professional MSLD and E101V float-free EPIRB with integrated voyage data record memory capsule.

The ATA100 Class A AIS Transponder is priced at £1999 excluding VAT.