AIS

[CampDavid]

Where would is the best location to install the AIS antenna and GPS ( for transceiver) on a sailboat?

Would want to have the best transmission and reception however preferably not way up the mast?

Thanks

Fletch

[wrwakefield]

Fletch,

I chose to install a Vesper AIS splitter to share the masthead VHF Radio antenna with the AIS transceiver. [I also replaced the VHF antenna with one of Vesper's dual VHF/AIS antennas, but it will work fine with a VHF only antenna- just not as optimized.]

A GPS receiver mushroom just needs a clear view of the sky, so height is not as important as with a line-of-sight VHF/AIS antenna.

In case this is helpful.

Cheers! Bill

[Tillsbury]

On a single-masted boat you are best to use the vhf aerial with a good quality splitter designed for AIS. The vesper one is recommended for their ais equipment. Maximum range from maximum height.

GPS is completely different as it needs to see upwards not across. Anywhere on the pushpit is the usual place.

[smac999]

the gps's don't need to be outside. under the deck at the chart table is likly just fine. (likly near where the ais is going.) they go through fiber glass. don't just put it directly under a cleat / rail etc.

[hlev00]

I installed a Vesper with their VHF splitter on my masthead antenna. The AIS has an external GPS antenna. The GPS is inside on a shelf near my nav station. The setup has worked great for me.

[chuckr]

We do not believe in splitters - I want my vhf to work with the radio only and the AIS to work with it's own antenna - we put our antenna above our bimini between the solar panels -- worked well for the past 12 years

[NYSail]

I’m going the vesper route...... antenna and splitter

Good luck!