Selection of the VHF antenna is critical to achieving the optimum receive and transmit range. We would recommend choosing an antenna that is tuned to cover the AIS channels at 162MHz.
AIS optimised ‘broadband’ antennas are suitable for use; these antennas typically have a wider bandwidth to give improved performance at the top end of the VHF band where AIS usually operates.
Siting of an antenna is crucial as even a well suited antenna may not radiate a good signal if installed in a poor location. Put simply, keep the antenna upright, clear of anything that could touch it (rigging/other antennas etc), keep a reasonable distance from any other devices/antenna arrays like Radar/HF/VHF radio that may be operating at high power and also keep clear of any other metallic obstructions.
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