Furuno FA70 AIS Transceiver

Description

Add higher-power AIS target sharing to a compatible Furuno navigation network with the Furuno FA70 AIS Transceiver. Its 5W SOTDMA Class B transmission, 72-channel GNSS receiver, and wired NMEA connections make it a practical option for cruisers, sailboats, and offshore vessels that need AIS data at a chartplotter without adding wireless networking. Need consistent Class B AIS reporting with a compact protected installation? The FA70 supports NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, USB, and a dedicated DSC watch receiver.

Key Specifications

• Furuno FA70 Class B SOTDMA AIS transceiver.
• 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS transmit-and-receive capability.
• Dual-channel AIS operation across 156.025–162.025 MHz.
• Integrated DSC watch receiver.
• Integrated 72-channel GPS/GNSS receiver.
• NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, and USB connectivity.
• Status LED indicators; no built-in AIS target display.
• 12V/24V DC input with up to approximately 3W maximum power consumption.
• IPX5 protection and operating range of 5°F to 131°F (-15°C to 55°C).
• Approximate dimensions: 7.1 × 5.5 × 3.0 inches; approximate weight: 1.2 lb (0.55 kg).
• Bulkhead or surface mounting.

Integration

The FA70 requires a suitable AIS/VHF antenna or approved splitter, valid MMSI/static vessel-data programming, and a compatible MFD, chartplotter, radar display, or computer to show AIS targets. It is not a VHF voice radio, chartplotter, radar, EPIRB, or collision-avoidance guarantee.

Class B SOTDMA can provide higher AIS output and more structured time-slot access than standard 2W CSTDMA Class B units. AIS reception and transmission still depend on antenna installation, VHF coverage, GNSS reception, proper programming, and other vessels transmitting accurate data. AIS does not show every vessel, buoy, floating object, or hazard.

Installation Notes

Mount the transceiver in a dry, accessible location with protected wiring and clear access to status LEDs. Use an AIS-rated VHF antenna or approved splitter, place any required external GNSS antenna with a clear sky view, and keep RF cabling separate from high-current electrical wiring where practical.

Use properly fused 12V/24V power, configure NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, or USB connections for the intended display, and program the MMSI, vessel name, call sign, dimensions, and antenna offset accurately before transmitting. Verify AIS reception, transmission, GNSS position, and MFD data after installation.

Before Ordering

Confirm Class B SOTDMA suitability, MMSI registration, AIS antenna or splitter needs, GNSS antenna placement, Furuno display compatibility, NMEA/USB requirements, 12V/24V power availability, and protected mounting space before ordering.