em-trak B953 Class B AIS Transceiver – 5W SOTDMA w/VHF Antenna Splitter

Description

Combine Class B SOTDMA AIS transmission and a shared VHF antenna in one compact unit with the em-trak B953. Its integrated zero-loss splitter, 5W SOTDMA transmitter, dedicated DSC watch receiver, and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity help simplify installations where adding a second antenna is impractical. Need stronger AIS transmission while retaining the existing VHF antenna? The B953 supports NMEA 2000, dual NMEA 0183 ports, USB, and mobile-device connectivity for compatible navigation systems.

Key Specifications

• em-trak B953 Class B AIS transceiver with integrated VHF antenna splitter, model 421-0004.
• 5W SOTDMA Class B AIS transmit-and-receive capability.
• Integrated zero-loss VHF antenna splitter for compatible shared VHF radio and AIS antenna installations.
• Dual-channel AIS operation across 156.025–162.025 MHz.
• Dedicated DSC watch receiver.
• High-performance internal GPS/GLONASS receiver with optional external antenna support.
• NMEA 2000, dual NMEA 0183, USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity.
• Multi-color LED status indicators; no built-in chartplotter display.
• 9.6V–31.2V DC input with approximately 2W average power consumption.
• IP67 protection, operating range of -13°F to 131°F (-25°C to 55°C), and approximately 1.0 lb (0.45 kg) weight.

Integration

The B953 requires a compatible marine VHF radio, suitable shared VHF antenna, correct MMSI/static vessel programming, and a compatible MFD, computer, or mobile device to view AIS targets. It is not a VHF voice radio itself, chartplotter, radar, EPIRB, or collision-avoidance guarantee.

The integrated splitter can reduce installation complexity, but it must be connected exactly as specified and used only with approved antenna and radio configurations. AIS and DSC reception depend on properly installed antennas, radio coverage, vessel electrical condition, and accurate data from other AIS-equipped vessels.

Installation Notes

Install the B953 in a dry, accessible location. Connect the shared VHF antenna, VHF radio, and AIS transceiver ports according to the manufacturer wiring diagram, and keep RF cables short, secure, and separated from high-current wiring. Position an external GPS antenna with clear sky view if required.

Use properly fused 9.6V–31.2V DC power, configure NMEA 2000/NMEA 0183/USB/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth as needed, and program the correct MMSI, vessel dimensions, call sign, and GNSS antenna offset. Verify VHF radio operation, AIS reception, AIS transmission, and display data after installation.

Before Ordering

Confirm shared-antenna compatibility, VHF radio and antenna connection requirements, MMSI registration, GPS antenna needs, NMEA/USB/Wi-Fi/Bluetooth integration, 12V/24V power capacity, and protected installation space before ordering.