How to check if my AIS is transmitting?

This is a very valid question. Especially if you have spent a few hours installing the transponder then knowing that it is working OK is very important. Using the proAIS2 configuration software allows you to see if the GPS position is OK. You can monitor the AIS reception of other vessels. As well as ensure that there are no errors or alarms. However, if you are new to AIS, there is always that nagging doubt as to whether other vessels are seeing you. The best test of a Class B transponder is to ask someone else in your marina, who has AIS, to check that they are receiving you on their system. If your vessel is stationary, then a transponder will only transmit every 3 minutes. This increases to every 30 seconds when your speed over the ground (SOG) is greater than 2 knots. Therefore, do allow some time for them to detect you. Also when they first receive your transmission, the only data they will see is your position, speed, course and MMSI number. It can take up to 6 minutes to receive your “Static Data” (boat name, call sign, vessel type, dimensions, etc.). This is normal and is the way the AIS system regulates the amount of data being transmitted. The other increasingly common method of testing an AIS transponder is to look on one of the online “live” AIS websites and the most popular of the free services is MarineTraffic.com However, it is important for you to be aware of the limitations of these online sites. As a result, do not assume that you will always be picked up by them. Each of the different online services are only as good as their network of AIS receiving stations. In many cases enthusiasts/volunteers operate these. In some areas the coverage is great but there are definitely “holes” in coverage.

How do I program Nomad 2 with boat details?

Nomad 2 has a built in interface for programming – simply connect your mobile device to its wifi and login to its functionality. No apps are required. proAIS 2 programming software can also be used on a PC or MAC via the USB interface

Does Nomad 2 need an internet connection or a GPS enabled tablet?

No internet connection is required for AIS apps to run and non GPS/WiFi only tablets can be utilised with an appropriate app for navigation as Nomad provides a GPS feed.

What range will I get from Nomad?

AIS uses VHF transmissions so range is limited to line of sight. With the compact antenna you should be able to transmit up to 5NM and receive data from other vessels at 10-12NM. Shore stations would typically pick you up at 25NM. Connected to a mast top antenna will give standard Class B ranges of up to 20NM as the power output (2W) is the same as all other Class B AIS.

What happens if I don’t have a MMSI number or haven’t programmed the unit?

If the unit is unprogrammed, it will hence act as a receiver only outputting GPS and AIS data via WiFi and USB

How long will my USB battery pack last?

USB battery packs have different capacities, typically quoted in mA/Hours. The table below, shows the continuous use time for the most common types. USB Power Pack Capacity Continuous Use Time (approx.) 3350mA/H 5.5 Hours 5000mA/H 8 Hours 15000mA/H 24 Hours 22000mA/H 36 Hours

How do I mount Nomad?

Most users will use a 3rd party mount like a mobile phone holder, RokLok, RailBlaza or RAM mount. The fixing holes also allow for a cable tie to be utilised and Nomad ships with two strips of high strength adhesive Velcro for a temporary solution. Nomad can also be permanently mounted using the screw holes provided onto a vertical bulkhead. It is important to mount Nomad vertically so that the internal GPS antenna is facing the sky

How many tablets can connect to the Nomad?

Up to 7 devices can connect wirelessly to Nomad at any time, which supports TCP (single device) and UDP (multiple devices) protocols.

What is the wireless interface range?

The Wi-Fi will typically footprint a boat up to 25m LOA. Contact us if you need a bigger footprint or have a steel or carbon vessel.

Can I use the GV30 antenna with other products?

The GV30 antenna can be used as an emergency VHF antenna. Remember it has a BNC connector so a BNC to PL259 adaptor may be required for a regular VHF

How do I view AIS data?

Nomad 2 has a USB interface (for power and data) that can connect to a PC or MAC. Any AIS compatible navigation software can be used and the PC will create a virtual com port. Digital Yacht offer free SmarterTrack Lite viewing software as well as premium SmarterTrack software for use with Navionics charts for detailed charting and navigation. It’s also compatible with popular programs like TimeZero, Nobeltec, Expedition, SeaPro and Open CPN. Most modern programs also accept a TCP/IP or UDP feed via the wireless link, but do double check before purchasing. Apps on iPads, tablets and smartphones will use the wireless link to connect to Nomad. Check www.digitalyacht.net for iOS and Android apps as there are a huge number of popular charting and navigation programs

Nomad 2 – Portable AIS Transponder

£834.00

“Nomad 2 is a portable AIS navigation solution from Digital Yacht. It is a class B+ 5W AIS transponder with wireless interface built in for tablets and PCs. It ships with a compact combination VHF and GPS antenna“

SKU: ZDIGNMD2 Categories: AIS Systems, AIS Transponders Tags: nomad, portable AIS

Description

KEY FEATURES

Nomad 2 is a portable AIS transponder from Digital Yacht. Designed for recreational boaters and professional mariners, it offers a full function, Class B+ 5W SOTDMA AIS transponder with a wireless interface built in for tablets and PCs – all in a portable, compact package.

It incorporates an innovative Cigarette Lighter Plug solution therefore allowing the Nomad to be powered from any standard cigarette lighter socket on board. It ships with a compact combination AIS and GPS antenna which allows the main unit to be used below decks on all types of vessel – leisure and commercial.

It addresses the needs of so many boaters who want a portable yet sophisticated navigation solution with AIS and GPS and the ability to interface with tablets, PCs and smart phones. It appeals to charter skippers, professional mariners like delivery skippers and pilots as well as boat owners who don’t want the hassle or cost of installing a dedicated transponder and like the concept of easy iPad and tablet navigation using their favourite charting apps with a detailed AIS overlay and real time GPS positioning. As a full function Class B+ 5W transponder, it also sends you boat position to other AIS users.

Nomad 2 has a built in wireless interface outputting GPS position data and AIS. It’s designed for use with an iPad, tablet, phone or PC in conjunction with any compatible charting app or program – Navionics, NavLINK, Weather 4D, AquaMap, Imray, SailGrib and 100’s more.

The unit can also act as an AIS/GPS receiver only if MMSI and specific boat data is not available.

CONFIGURATION

Nomad 2 has a built-in web interface. The configuration of the transponder can be done through a computer, a tablet or even a smartphone and most importantly, no software is required.

You can configure the Nomad 2 through its own simple web interface, just open your web browser, enter the Nomad 2’s IP address and you can configure the vessel details (MMSI number, Boat name, etc.), network name, password and even merge the AIS’s WiFi to an existing WiFi network on board. So no complicated programming software or app required.

You can even view the received NMEA data in the web browser, for easy fault finding of issues. Finally, the Nomad 2 supports TCP and UDP network protocols for maximum compatibility with apps.

SPECIFICATIONS

The perfect AIS solution for charter users, rental boats, delivery skippers, pilots, commercial users etc
Full function Class B+ 5W transponder (send and receive AIS)
Supplied with combination GPS-VHF antenna which has industry standard 1” threaded mount – suitable for many 3rd party deck, rail and pole mounts
Integrated wireless interface – compatible all major AIS charting apps
Powered via its integrated Cigarette Lighter Plug interface – can also be connected directly to the boat’s 12/24V or to external batteries
Easy programming and control through wireless web interface – no apps required
Silence transmissions via the web interface
Supports up to 7 connected devices
Creates its own WiFi access point and also has ability to join an existing wireless network if required

Additional information

Weight	1200 g
Dimensions	245 × 165 × 100 mm

Manual and Downloads

Nomad 2 Product Manual V2_01

1.21 MB

This product manual is for the latest Nomad 2 (since January 2025) which is a Class B+ (5W SOTDMA) AIS Transponder and must be powered via the integral 12v power lead that is designed to plug in to a standard “cigarette lighter” socket.

Download

Nomad 2 User Manual V1_11

1.79 MB

Nomad 2 Portable AIS Transponder Latest User Manual

Download

what inside box

Nomad Class B+ SOTDMA Transponder

3db Wifi Antenna

Integrated Cigarette Lighter Plug

GV30 Combination Ais/Gps Antenna With 10m Cable And Connectors

Instructions

Product Video

How to configure an AIS tranponder with web interface

FAQs