em-trak B952 Class B AIS Transceiver – 5W SOTDMA – WiFi & Bluetooth

Description

Increase Class B AIS transmission capability while keeping mobile-device access available with the em-trak B952. Its 5W SOTDMA transmitter, dual-channel AIS reception, internal GPS/GLONASS receiver, and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity make it well suited to cruisers, sailboats, and workboats that want AIS targets on both installed navigation displays and portable devices. Need higher-output Class B AIS but already have a separate AIS antenna or splitter? The B952 supports NMEA 2000, dual NMEA 0183 ports, USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth in a compact IP67 enclosure.

Key Specifications

• em-trak B952 Class B SOTDMA AIS transceiver with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, model 421-0003.
• 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS transmit-and-receive capability.
• Dual-channel AIS operation across 156.025–162.025 MHz.
• Integrated DSC watch receiver.
• Internal high-performance GPS/GLONASS receiver.
• NMEA 2000, dual NMEA 0183 ports, USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity.
• No built-in VHF antenna splitter; use a dedicated AIS/VHF antenna or separately selected approved splitter.
• Multi-color status LED indicators; no integrated chartplotter display.
• 9.6V–31.2V DC input with approximately 2W average power consumption.
• IP67 protection and operating range of -13°F to 131°F (-25°C to 55°C).
• Approximate dimensions: 5.9 × 4.5 × 1.8 inches; approximate weight: 0.93 lb (0.42 kg).

Integration

The B952 needs a suitable AIS/VHF antenna or approved external splitter, valid MMSI/static vessel-data programming, and a compatible MFD, chartplotter, computer, or mobile app to display AIS targets. It is not a VHF voice radio, radar, chartplotter, EPIRB, or collision-avoidance system.

Class B SOTDMA provides 5W transmission and more structured access to AIS reporting slots than standard 2W CSTDMA Class B units. AIS reception and transmission still depend on antenna quality, VHF coverage, correct GNSS operation, proper programming, and other vessels broadcasting valid data.

Installation Notes

Mount the transceiver in a dry, accessible interior location with strain relief for VHF/AIS coaxial cable, power, GNSS, and network connections. Use a suitable dedicated AIS antenna or approved splitter, keep RF wiring away from high-current conductors, and place any external GPS antenna where it has clear sky view.

Use a properly fused 9.6V–31.2V DC circuit, configure NMEA 2000/NMEA 0183/USB/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth for the selected displays, and secure wireless connections. Program accurate MMSI and vessel data before transmitting, then test AIS reception, transmission, GPS lock, and target display.

Before Ordering

Confirm Class B SOTDMA suitability, MMSI registration, dedicated AIS antenna or external splitter needs, compatible MFD/mobile-device integration, GPS antenna requirements, NMEA/USB/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth configuration, 12V/24V power capacity, and protected mounting space before ordering.