CSB200 Class B AIS

Installation GENERAL WARNINGS................................................................ 3

and
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................... 6
AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AIS)................................... 6

Instruction Guide
INFORMATION TRANSMITTED AND RECEIVED ................................. 7
INSTALLING THE CSB200 UNIT................................................. 8
PACKING LIST .............................................................................. 8
ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS ......................................................... 8
GPS ANTENNA ............................................................................ 9
VHF ANTENNA ............................................................................. 9
DATA CONNECTION ................................................................... 11

CSB200 PROGRAMMING THE CSB200.................................................. 13

PROAIS PROGRAM .................................................................... 13
STATIC DATA ............................................................................. 16
Class B AIS Transponder GPS STATUS ............................................................................ 19
DIAGNOSTICS ............................................................................ 20
SERIAL DATA ............................................................................. 23
OTHER VESSELS ....................................................................... 24
SAFETY MESSAGES ................................................................... 25
COMMANDS ............................................................................... 26
USING THE CSB200 .................................................................. 28
SWITCHING ON .......................................................................... 28
WARNING AND FAULT STATES .................................................... 28
LED INDICATORS....................................................................... 29
LED STATUS INDICATORS .......................................................... 31
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE.................................................... 33

SERIAL DATA INTERFACE....................................................... 36

SERIAL PORT INPUT/OUTPUT ..................................................... 36
NMEA MESSAGES .................................................................... 37
PRODUCT SPECIFICATION ...................................................... 42

GLOSSARY................................................................................. 45

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

GENERAL WARNINGS
DISCLAIMER
All marine Automatic Identification System (AIS) units utilise a satellite
THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED BY THE COPYRIGHT HOLDERS AND
based system such as the Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) network or
CONTRIBUTORS "AS IS" AND ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED
the Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) network to determine
WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED
position. The accuracy of these networks is variable and is affected by
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
factors such as the antenna positioning, how many satellites are used to
PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL
determine a position and how long satellite information has been received
THE COPYRIGHT OWNER OR CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR ANY
for. It is desirable wherever possible therefore to verify both your vessels
DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR
AIS derived position data and other vessels AIS derived position data
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO,
with visual or radar based observations.
PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF
USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTION)
The proAIS software is intended for use as an installation and
HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY,
configuration tool. The application is not a navigation tool and should not
WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR TORT (INCLUDING
be used as such.
NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE
USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY
LICENSING
OF SUCH DAMAGE.
IMPORTANT: In most countries the operation of an AIS unit is included
under the vessels marine VHF licence provisions. The vessel on to which
This software uses components and source code developed by other
the AIS unit is to be installed must therefore possess a current VHF
companies or groups.
radiotelephone licence which lists the AIS system and the vessel Call
Sign and MMSI number. Please contact the relevant authority in your
Microsoft .Net Framework V2.0:
country for more information. In accordance with a policy of continual
Copyright © 2005 Microsoft Corporation
development and product improvement the CSB200 hardware and
software may be upgraded from time to time and future versions of the
ZedGraph Graphing component dll (http://zedgraph.org):
CSB200 may therefore not correspond exactly with this manual. When
Provided under the GNU Lesser General Public License
necessary upgrades to the product will be accompanied by updates or
addenda to this manual. Please take time to read this manual carefully
and to understand its contents fully so that you can install and operate
your AIS system correctly.
All trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their
Information contained in this manual is liable to change without notice.
respective owners.
Comar Systems Ltd disclaims any liability for consequences arising from
omissions or inaccuracies in this manual and any other documentation
provided with this product.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

LIMITED WARRANTY
Comar Systems Ltd warrants this product to be free from defects in
INTRODUCTION
materials and manufacture for one year from the date of purchase.
Comar Systems Ltd will, at its sole option, repair or replace any
components that fail in normal use. Such repairs or replacement will be
Automatic Identification System (AIS)
made at no charge to the customer for parts and labour. The customer is,
however, responsible for any transportation costs incurred in returning How AIS Works
the unit to Comar Systems Ltd.
This warranty does not cover failures due to abuse, misuse, accident or The marine Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a location and vessel
unauthorized alteration or repairs. information reporting system. It allows vessels equipped with AIS to
automatically and dynamically share and regularly update their position,
The above does not affect the statutory rights of the customer. speed, course and other information such as vessel identity with similarly
equipped craft. Position is derived from a Global Navigation Satellite
System (GNSS) network and communication between vessels is by Very
High Frequency (VHF) digital transmissions. A sophisticated and
automatic method of time sharing the radio channel is used to ensure that
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY even where a large number of vessels are in one location, blocking of
Hereby, Comar Systems Ltd of Medina Court, Arctic Road, Cowes, Isle of individual transmissions is minimised, any degradation of the expected
Wight, PO31 7XD, United Kingdom, declare that this CSB200 is in position reporting interval is indicated to the user and even if the unit
compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions suffers extreme channel overload conditions it will always recover to
of Directive 1999/5/EC. normal operation.

This product carries the CE mark, notified body number and alert symbol AIS Classes
as required by the R&TTE directive.
There are two classes of AIS unit fitted to vessels, Class A and Class B.
In addition AIS base stations may be employed by the Coastguard, port
This product is intended for sale in the following member states: authorities and other authorised bodies. AIS units acting as aids to
navigation (A to Ns) can also be fitted to fixed and floating navigation
markers such as channel markers and buoys.
Class A units are a mandatory fit under the safety of life at sea (SOLAS)
convention to vessels above 300 gross tons or which carry more than 11
passengers in International waters. Many other commercial vessels and
some leisure craft also fit Class A units.
Class B units are currently not a mandatory fit but authorities in several
parts of the world are considering this. Class B units are designed for
fitting in vessels which do not fall into the mandatory Class A fit category.

The CSB200 is a Class B unit

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

Information Transmitted and Received

INSTALLING THE CSB200 UNIT
A Class A unit will transmit its IMO number (if known), MMSI, Call sign
and Name, length and beam, ship type, time, course over ground (COG),
speed over ground (SOG), heading, navigational status, rate of turn, Packing List
draught, cargo type, destination and safety related messages via a short
message service (SMS) facility. Message lengths are variable with static 1 x CSB200 Transponder unit
and voyage related information being transmitted less often.
1 x Power Cable
1 x PC 9pin D Male to Female Programming cable
Class A ship borne reporting intervals
1 x 9pin D Male Plug with wire ends.
1 x CD
Ships dynamic conditions Rate
1 x Instruction Manual
Ship at anchor or moored 3 min
Ship 0-14 Knots 10 sec
Ship 0-14 Knots and changing course 3.3 sec
Ship 14-23 Knots 6 sec
WARNING: Do not connect the CSB200 unit to a mains (line) AC
Ship 14-23 Knots and changing course 2 sec electrical supply, as an electric shock or fire hazard could result.
Ship > 23 Knots 2 sec CAUTION: Do not connect the CSB200 unit to a DC supply
exceeding 15.6 V or reverse the supply polarity. Damage to the unit
Ship > 23 Knots and changing course 2 sec may result.
Ships Static Information 6 min CAUTION: The CSB200 unit is designed for operation in the
temperature range -25 °C to +55 °C. Do not install (or use) the
CSB200 unit in environments which exceed this range.
CAUTION: The CSB200 unit should be installed in a location where
A Class B unit will transmit its MMSI, Call Sign and Name, length and it is protected from water and spray.
beam, ship type, time, course over ground (COG), speed over ground
(SOG).
Electrical Connections
Class B ship borne reporting intervals
Connect a 12V DC supply (9.6-15.6V) capable of supplying 2A peak to
the DC power lead .
Ships dynamic conditions Rate
Positive = RED Negative = BLACK
Ship with Speed Over the Ground < 2 Knots 3 min
The case of the unit is not isolated from the negative terminal of the
Ship with Speed Over the Ground > 2 Knots 30 sec supply and therefore it is recommended that the unit is not attached
to metal parts of the vessel.
Ships Static Information 6 min

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

Connect a suitable GPS antenna to the TNC connector (inner of • Must be suitable for marine shipboard applications (index of
the two) at the rear of the CSB200 protection, ruggedness, means of mounting, etc.)

Connect a suitable VHF antenna to the BNC connector (outer of • Should be omni-directional and vertically polarised with unity
the two) at the rear of the CSB200 gain (0 dB) with a bandwidth sufficient to maintain VSWR <1.5
over the frequency range 156 – 163 MHz. As a minimum the
3dB bandwidth must cover the two AIS channels and the DSC
GPS Antenna Channel.
The GPS antenna used must be of the active type (i.e. it should • Should be mounted with at least a two metre vertical separation
incorporate an LNA) and must be suitable for marine shipboard distance from any other VHF antenna used for speech or DSC
applications (index of protection, ruggedness, means of mounting, etc.). communication.
An antenna should be selected with a gain (in dB) depending on the
length of cable between the antenna and the AIS unit; after subtraction of VHF Antenna Connection
cable and connector losses, a minimum total gain of 25 dB should be
available at the CSB200 unit GPS antenna connector. Connecting a badly mismatched VHF antenna, leaving the VHF antenna
The GPS antenna to be used for AIS use must be a dedicated antenna, port disconnected, or shorting the VHF antenna port will activate the
i.e. not shared with any other GPS receiver. VSWR alarm, cause the unit to stop sending position reports or cause
damage to the transponder.
Installation of the GPS antenna is critical for the performance of the built
in GPS receiver which is used for timing of the transmitted time slots and Radio Frequency Exposure
for the supply of navigational information should the main navigational
GPS fail. We strongly recommend that: To meet the requirements for Radio Frequency Exposure it is necessary
1. The GPS antenna is mounted in an elevated position and free of to install the VHF antenna correctly and operate the AIS equipment
shadow effect from the ship’s superstructure according to the instructions.

2. The GPS antenna has a free view through 360 degrees with a The VHF antenna must be mounted at a minimum distance (vertical
vertical angle of 5 to 90 degrees above the horizon. separation) of 3 metres from the head of any person standing on deck in
order to meet international safety directives on Maximum Permissible
3. As the received GPS signal is very sensitive to noise and Exposure (MPE) / Specific Absorption Rate (SAR).
interference generated by other onboard transmitters, ensure that
the GNSS antenna is placed as far away as possible from radar, Where no suitable structure exists to achieve a 3 metre vertical
Inmarsat and Iridium transmitters and ensure the GPS antenna is separation then the antenna base must be mounted at least 1 metre
free from direct view of the radar and the Inmarsat beam. above the head of any person within range, all persons should stay
outside the 3-metre safety radius and if practical a grounded RF shield
4. It is also important that the MF/HF and other VHF transmitter should be interposed between people and the antenna.
antennas are kept as far away as possible from the GNSS
antenna. It is good practice never to install a GNSS antenna within Failure to adhere to these limits could expose persons within the 3 metre
a radius of 5 meters from these antennas. radius to RF radiation in excess of the MPE / SAR limits.

VHF antenna

The VHF antenna employed for AIS use:

• Must be a dedicated antenna, i.e. not shared with any other VHF
transmitter/receiver.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

Connections to a PC.

Data Connection CSB200 PC 9 Pin Serial Port

If an external display unit is to be used to show other AIS units within
2- Red -TX Data 2- RX Data
range (such as a chart plotter, PC serial terminal or other display device)
connect the user end of the data interface cable to the display device. 3- Orange- RX Data 3- Transmit Data
Note that the software in the display device must be configured for AIS
operation . 5 –Green-Ground 5 -Ground

There is a 9-way D-type female connector mounted at the rear of the

CSB200. The standard wire ended data cable assembly provided mates Connections to a Plotter.
with this connector.

CSB200 Plotter/Radar

9 Pin D Cable Colour Signal Name 1 – Brown- NMEA Output B NMEA Input B- Return
4 – Yellow NMEA Output A NMEA Input A - Positive
1 BROWN -NMEA Output (RS422)

2 RED +RS232 Output

Data
3 ORANGE +RS232 Input
The default baud rate of the data link is 38.4kBaud with 8 data bits, one
stop bit and no parity. No handshaking is used.
4 YELLOW +NMEA Output (RS422)
The data interface conforms to IEC 61162-1.
5 GREEN Ground VDM, VDO, RMC, ACA, ACS, ALR, TXT and ACK messages conform to
NMEA 0183. Please refer to the SERIAL DATA INTERFACE section of
6 BLUE Configurable Switch + this manual for full details of these AIS messages.

7 VIOLET Not Used

8 GREY +NMEA Input (RS422)

9 BLACK -NMEA Input (RS422)

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

PROGRAMMING THE CSB200

5. The application will install and launch automatically
6. A Start Menu folder and shortcut will be created with the name
proAIS Program 'proAIS'. This short cut should be used to re-launch the
application as required
Before the CSB200 can transmit it requires to be programmed with your
own vessels information. This is done via the CSB200 field programmer
proAIS Removal
The proAIS application can be removed at any time via the Windows
Requirements Control Panel 'Add or Remove Programs' tool.

The proAIS application is designed to operate with Microsoft Windows

AIS Connection
200, XP and above. Recommended minimum system requirements are:
1. Launch the proAIS application by navigating to the 'proAIS'
• Microsoft Windows XP SP2 shortcut on the Start Menu.
• Display resolution of at least 1024 x 768 2. The initial application screen will appear as shown below (exact
• At least one RS232 serial port (or USB to serial converter screen display depends on version installed)
already installed*)
*If you are using a USB to serial converter please ensure this is fully
installed before proceeding.

This software uses the Microsoft .Net Framework V2.0. The Framework
will be automatically installed during setup if not already present on the
system.
Setup
1. Insert the installation CD and locate the Setup.exe file.
2. Double click the Setup.exe file to begin the installation.
3. Follow on screen prompts to install the .Net Framework if
required
4. When the security warning below is displayed, select 'Install'

3. The application requires a serial connection to the CSB200.

Connect the CSB200 transponder to an available serial port.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
4. Select the serial port from the drop down menu, then click • Safety messages tab
'Connect': o Displays safety related messages received from other AIS
equipped vessels.

• Commands tab
o Provides access to software controlled features of the
5. Once a connection is established the application is ready to CSB200 AIS transponder.
use. Connection status is indicated at the bottom left of the
application window: • Serial Data tab
o Shows the raw NMEA serial data being generated by the
transponder. Provides a facility to log this data to a file for
later analysis.
6. The functions of proAIS are arranged in a series of tabs. Each o Allows NMEA commands to be sent to the transponder
tab contains information relating to a particular aspect of the
connected AIS transponder. Depending on the version of proAIS
installed not all tabs shown below may be visible. Subsequent sections describe the functions of each tab in more detail.

Menu Bar
• Static data tab The menu bar provides basic program options.
o Displays the 'Static data' for the connected AIS
transponder. This includes the vessel's name, call sign, Under the 'Options' menu item checking 'Beep on AIS Transmission' will
MMSI number and other fixed information cause the PC to emit a sound every time the connected AIS unit
o Allows editing of the static data transmits.

• GPS Status tab

o Shows the status of the internal GPS receiver, including
position fix data and satellite signal strength graph

• Diagnostics tab The Help -> About menu item displays the program splash screen and
o Shows the status of key system diagnostics. Used to version information.
troubleshoot installation of the transponder and verify
correct operation. Static Data
• Other Vessels tab
o Shows information about other vessels in the area received This tab shows the current configuration of the AIS transponder and
from the AIS transponder allows the configuration to be programmed during installation into a
vessel.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
When an un-configured AIS transponder is connected for the first time • MMSI number - enter the vessel's Maritime Mobile Service
the display will be similar to that shown below: Identity number
• Enter the vessels dimensions as follows
o Dimension A - distance from the bow to GPS antenna
location to the nearest meter
o Dimension B - distance from the stern to GPS antenna
location to the nearest meter
o Dimension C - distance from the port side to the GPS
antenna location to the nearest meter
o Dimension D - distance from the GPS antenna to the
starboard side to the nearest meter
• Select the most appropriate vessel type from the drop down
menu.

L CAUTION:

If no MMSI is entered (MMSI is set to 000000000) then the

AIS transponder will operate in receive only mode. The
To configure the transponder all of the data fields must be completed and vessels own position will not be transmitted. An MMSI must
saved to the AIS. be entered to allow the AIS transponder to transmit its own
position to other vessels.

L CAUTION: • When you have entered all of the vessel's data click the 'Save
static data to AIS' button to programme this configuration into
For security reasons the MMSI of the vessel cannot be
the AIS transponder:
changed once programmed. Do not programme the MMSI
unless you are certain you have the correct information.
Please check the number entered carefully. If the MMSI
programmed is incorrect the AIS transponder will need to
be returned to the supplier for factory reset. • A warning will be displayed asking you to verify the MMSI
number. Please check the number displayed is correct before
Enter the vessels information in the appropriate box: proceeding. If the number is incorrect click the 'No' button to
cancel programming of the MMSI:
• Ship's name - enter the name of the vessel (20 characters
maximum)
• Call Sign - enter the vessel's radio call sign (7 characters
maximum)

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
The information on this tab is intended for use during installation of the
AIS transponder in order to verify connection of the GPS antenna.

Diagnostics

The diagnostics tab shows key status information from the AIS
transponder. This information can be used to quickly verify that the
transponder has been installed correctly and is operational.
• Click the 'Yes' button if the MMSI is correct
• The static data tab will be updated to show the newly
programmed vessel information. The MMSI number will be
displayed with a grey background to indicate that it has been
programmed and cannot be changed.

GPS Status

This tab shows the status of the internal GPS receiver. If the GPS
receiver has position fix then the current position, speed and course are
shown. A bar chart of satellite signal strength is also provided.

AIS Transponder Status

• A tick next to the items in this area indicates correct operation.
• If a red cross is shown then some action may be required:

o Transponder MMSI valid has a red cross - check the

MMSI of the unit is configured by selecting the 'Static
Data' tab and verifying that a valid MMSI has been
Satellite signal strength bars are shown in green for satellites that are
entered. If the MMSI is 000000000 then it has not been
currently being used for navigation. Blue signal strength bars are used to
programmed.
show satellites not currently being used for navigation. It is normal for the
graph to display a combination of green and blue bars.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
o GPS position fix has a red cross - the GPS has not
acquired a position fix. Please allow up to 5 minutes for LED Status
a fix to be acquired. If the red cross is still present This display may not be enabled depending on the software version of
check the GPS antenna is correctly connected and has your AIS transponder.
a clear view of the sky. This section mirrors the LED display on the front of the AIS transponder
and is useful when the unit is installed in a location
o AIS has transmitted a position report has a red cross - where the physical LEDs are not easily visible.
the unit has not yet transmitted its position. Please
allow up to 5 minutes after GPS fix has been acquired Internal Data
for the green tick to appear. If the red cross is still This display may not be enabled depending on the software version of
present after this time please refer to the active alarms your AIS transponder.
section below. The AIS will not transmit unless it has This section provides internal diagnostics data from your AIS
acquired GPS fix and has a valid MMSI programmed transponder. Your dealer may request this information if diagnosing any
problems with your installation.
o AIS has received a position report has a red cross - a
position report from another vessel has been received. Statistics
If there is no other AIS equipped vessel in the area the This display may not be enabled depending on the software version of
red cross will remain against this item. If other AIS your AIS transponder.
equipped vessels are present and the red cross This section shows the number of AIS messages received and
remains please check the VHF antenna connections. transmitted on each of the AIS channels. You can use this information to
verify that the transponder is successfully receiving and transmitting data
AIS Transponder Active Alarms when other AIS equipped vessels are in range
Any active alarm messages generated by the AIS unit are shown here
• Note that alarms may take up to 1 minute to clear from this
display once their source has been corrected
• It is normal for GPS related alarms to be displayed when the AIS
is first switched on. These alarms will clear once GPS position
fix is acquired.
• Please refer to the troubleshooting section for a description of
each alarm message

AIS Transponder Information

This section shows technical information about the connected AIS
transponder including software and firmware version information.
Depending on the AIS software version the ability to display the GPS
firmware version may not be present. If shown, clicking the 'Get version'
button will retrieve the GPS firmware version. Please note that this
operation may result in a temporary loss of GPS fix.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
identification

• NMEA command sentences can be sent to the unit by entering

Serial Data them in the lower text box and clicking the 'Send' button. proAIS
This tab shows the raw NMEA 0183 serial data being output by the AIS. will calculate and append the NMEA checksum to the sentence
A typical display is shown below: if the "Add Checksum" check box is checked. In this case enter
a NMEA sentence without including the asterisk that precedes
the checksum.

Other Vessels

• Serial data can be logged to a file by clicking the 'Log to file'

button and entering a file name and location in the dialog box.
o Logging to file will continue if other tabs are selected
after logging has been started
o Logging to file will cease when the 'Stop logging' button
This tab shows information received from other AIS equipped vessels in
is clicked
the area.
• The serial data display can be paused by clicking the pause • The MMSI of each vessel is shown.
o Vessels equipped with Class A AIS have the MMSI
button at the bottom right hand side of the data window. Clicking
the button a second time will resume output of the live serial displayed in black text.
o Vessels equipped with Class B AIS have the MMSI
data.
diplayed in blue text
• Transmitted AIVDO messages are indented for easy
• The name and call sign of each vessel is shown

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
o Due to the way AIS operates this information may take This tab displays safety related messages received from other AIS
some time to appear equipped vessels in the area. The tab displays two message types:

• The speed in knots, course in degrees, decimal latitude and • Addressed Safety Related Message (VDL Message #12)
longitude are shown for each vessel • Broadcast Safety Related Message (VDL Message #14)

• The approximate distance to each vessel is shown when the The UTC time the message was received, along with the MMSI of the
connected unit has a GPS fix. Please note that this is an sender will be displayed along with the text contents of each message.
approximate distance for indication only.
Commands
• The class of the AIS equipment on each vessel is displayed as
A or B

• Columns can be sorted into ascending or descending order by

clicking on the column heading.

Safety Messages

The commands tab provides access to software controlled features of the

CSB200 transponder. Depending on the AIS software version the
following commands may be available:

• Configure baud rates

o Baud rates for the RS232 and RS422 (NMEA 0183)
communications ports can be set here. The default
value is 38400 & should be used where possible. The

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
'Update' button should be clicked to send new settings to
the AIS transponder. USING THE CSB200
• Alarm output options
Switching on
By default the AIS transponder will output the status of all alarms every
minute using AIALR sentences. The unit can be optionally configured to
only output active alarms using the radio buttons. The 'Update' button
should be clicked to send new settings to the AIS transponder.

When the 12VDC supply is switched on the green ON LED will light and
the other six LED’s visible on the front panel of the unit will illuminate
twice for a period of one second on each illumination. The Status, TX Off
and TX LEDs will then go out. The green RX LED will flash when it is
receiving data from other AIS units.
When the internal GPS is locked the yellow LED will go out and the
green Status Led will light; note that this process may take several
minutes depending on the switch-on state of the GPS receiver. The red
TX LED will flash momentarily every time the unit transmits.
NOTE If the unit has not been programmed with an MMSI number the
green RX, yellow Timeout and red Error LED will remain on.

Warning and Fault States

If the unit has not been able to transmit a position report during the last
expected two reporting intervals (i.e. the nominal reporting interval cannot
be maintained for operational reasons such as a Message 23 quiet
period, high channel load conditions, etc) the yellow LED will illuminate.
This is a warning condition only and indicates that your vessels
position is not currently being reported to other vessels. Reception of
other vessel AIS information by the CSB200 is not affected. When the
unit is able to commence reporting the yellow LED goes out.
If a fault occurs the red Error LED will illuminate. This may illuminate
briefly if the power supply is interrupted or if the VHF antenna
characteristics are briefly affected.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
If the Red Error LED illuminates continuously the unit should be assumed • The transponder was unable to transmit an AIS message due to
to be faulty and should either be switched off (power removed) or if this is the channel being already occupied, e.g. by transmissions from
not practical any other vessel position information derived from the unit other AIS transponders, or the TX Off function is in operation.
should not be used and it should also be assumed that the unit is not
transmitting valid position information for your vessel. Error
This is a red LED which indicates, when lit, one of the following status
The unit should be examined by an authorised service agent at the conditions is possible:
earliest opportunity.
• Transmitter lockout timer (1 second maximum) has operated
LED Indicators • GPS is unable to gain lock after 30 minutes
• VHF antenna VSWR is out of range
ON • Power Supply is out of range
This is a green LED which indicates, when lit, that power has been • Background noise level is above the threshold level (-77dBm)
connected correctly to the transponder.

Status
Transmit Off Facility.
This is a green LED which indicates, when lit, that the transponder
hardware has been configured, that the operating software is present, The Blue LED can be configured to operate in 3 modes by the proAIS
that the CPU has booted up, the application software is running and program:
everything is correct.
• Switch has no function, default mode as supplied.
RX • Silent mode facility is provided in the event that you do not wish
to disclose your position to other users or to conserve power
This is a green LED which indicates when flashing that the CSB200 is when it is not necessary to transmit your position. The
receiving data from other AIS transponders and is outputting this data as transmitter can be turned off by connecting a simple ON/OFF
VDM NMEA sentences on the output data ports. If the Green LED is on switch between the Blue cable on pin 6 and the Green cable on
continuously the unit has not been programmed with its personalised pin 5. Closing this switch will cause the Blue-TX off LED and
data. It will still send received data to the output port, but will not transmit. the Yellow Timeout LED to light, the Green Status LED will
extinguish. Opening the switch will resume transmissions.
TX Reception of AIS data during this operation will not be affected.
• Send Safety Related Message will send a Type 14 message
This is a red LED which flashes momentarily when the CSB200 transmits with your MMSI number and the words MAYDAY MAYDAY. The
its own AIS data. message can be turned on by connecting a momentary push on
button between the Blue cable on pin 6 and the Green cable on
Timeout pin 5. Holding the switch down for 3 seconds will activate the
function and cause the blue LED to light, it will stay illuminated
This is a yellow LED which indicates when lit that the transmitter is for 1 minute, further pushes of the switch, after the Blue LED
prevented from transmitting. Reasons for this include the following: extinguishes, will repeat the message.
• The transponder’s internal GPS receiver is not operating or is
not yet ready.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

• Rx channel 1 malfunction (synthesiser not locked)

• Rx channel 2 malfunction (synthesiser not locked)
LED Status Indicators
• Internal GNSS not in use
• No valid SOG information
Power Status Timeout Error TX TX RX Indicates
Off • No valid COG information
• Background noise > -77dBm
• GPS failure
• VSWR exceeding the maximum allowed level
9 9 Blinking Blinking Normal
• The input voltage is out of the specified range
9 9 9 Fixed No MMSI

9 9 Blinking No GPS

9 9 9 Blinking Tx off Switch

9 9 9 Blinking SRM switch

MAINTENANCE
WARNING: Unauthorized opening of the CSB200 unit will invalidate the
warranty.
CAUTION: Avoid using chemical solvents to clean the CBS200, solvents
The table above is a quick reference check on the operational status of may damage the case material.
the CSB200, for more detailed information it is recommended to view the
NOTE: The CSB200 contains no serviceable parts. Contact your local
Diagnostics page in the proAIS program.
Dealer if the unit fails to function correctly.

Built in Integrity Test

The CSB200 is equipped with Built In Integrity Testing (BIIT). BIIT tests
run continuously or at appropriate intervals simultaneously with the
standard functions of the equipment. The BIIT detects any failure or
malfunction that will significantly reduce integrity or stop operation of the
CSB200 unit.
The tests include:
• AIS TX malfunction (synthesiser not locked and TX time-out not
exceeded)
• Antenna VSWR exceeds limit

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

Problem Possible cause Solution

TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE The GPS antenna is Check the GPS
not correctly antenna location and
connected make sure it's view of
Problem Possible cause Solution the sky is not
The GPS antenna obstructed
General
does not have a clear
The AIS is not Check the number of
view of the sky
connected to the the serial port the AIS is
Check the AIS
serial port selected connected to and retry.
GPS antenna is installation manual
from the drop down
unsuitable for use with against the specification
CSB200 is not menu.
AIS of your GPS antenna
detected on proAIS Check that the power
Diagnostics tab
The AIS is not supply is connected
Red cross against a Unit configuration or See Diagnostics tab
powered. and switched on.
status item antenna connections section of this user
guide for advice on
The serial cable is Try an alternative serial
each item
damaged or faulty. cable.
Static Data tab Active alarm shown: The unit has not Wait at least five
acquired GPS fix minutes for the unit to
No static data is The unit has not yet Follow instructions in
Position sensor fault acquire GPS position fix
displayed been configured the Static data section
OR
to configure the unit
SOG data fault Follow troubleshooting
The MMSI can not The MMSI has The MMSI can only be
OR guide for GPS tab
be changed already been programmed once. If it
COG data fault
programmed is incorrect please
Active alarm shown: The VHF antenna is Check the VHF antenna
contact your dealer.
not connected or is connections.
The static data is Data was entered Re-enter the static data
VHF Antenna VSWR not suitable for use
incorrect incorrectly and save to the AIS.
fault with the AIS Check the AIS
The MMSI cannot be
installation manual
updated.
against the specification
GPS tab
of your VHF antenna
Active alarm shown: The power supply to Check the power supply
No GPS position The unit has not Check the GPS
the AIS is outside the voltage to the AIS
information is acquired GPS fix antenna connections
12V Power supply specified range. against that specified in
displayed and power cycle the
fault the installation manual.
(or graph shows only AIS unit.
blue bars)

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

Problem Possible cause Solution

SERIAL DATA INTERFACE
Active alarm shown: The AIS cannot Check the VHF antenna
transmit because the connections.
Serial Port Input/Output
Channel A Noise background noise
fault OR level is too high Check the AIS There are two serial ports, one presenting NMEA (RS422) format and the
Channel B Noise installation manual other RS232 format. Data can be input from either or both ports.
fault against the specification
The serial port interface(s) output:
of your VHF antenna.
• At power-up boot-loader and main application splash text
In very busy shipping screens including version numbers and memory status.
channels this alarm • As a VHF Data Link Message (VDM) all incoming VHF Data
may appear Link (VDL) data received by the CSB200.
temporarily. This is • The VHF data link own vessel (VDO) messages sent by the
normal operation for CSB200 over the VHF Data Link.
Class B AIS.
• AIS regional channel assignment messages (ACA) received.
Active alarm shown The VHF antenna is Check the VHF antenna These are derived from an incoming VHF Data Link message
with message not not connected or is connections. (message 22) or a DSC message.
listed here not suitable for use
• AIS channel management information source (ACS) messages.
with the AIS. Check the AIS
installation manual • Alarm messages (ALR, TXT).
against the specification The data interface will accept
of your VHF antenna.
• Personality programming messages

AIS is faulty. Please contact your • Alarm acknowledgement messages (ACK)

dealer.
On power up the unit will report details of the firmware versions residing
in the unit.

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

NMEA Messages 8 binary broadcast

System control
Receipt of a VHF transmission on either AIS radio channel causes a
VDM message to be output via the data port. 7 binary acknowledge (INFO)

VDM Message Format 10 UTC and data inquiry (INFO)

11 UTC and data response (INFO)
!--VDM,x1,x2,x3,a,s--s,x*hh<CR><LF>
13 safety related ack (INFO)
• x1 = Total number of sentences needed to transfer the message
, 1 to 9 15 interrogation (INFO)
16 assignment mode command (INFO)
• x2 = Sentence number, 1 to 9
17 DGNSS corrections (INFO)
• x3 = Sequential message identifier, 0 to 9
20 data link management (INFO)
• a = AIS Channel, "A" or "B"
22 channel management (INFO)
• s - - s = Encapsulated ITU-R M.1371 radio message
• x = Number of fill-bits, 0 to 5
VDO Message Format
VDM Message Types This sentence sends the own vessels details.
For example, the information contained in the s - - s portion of the VDM =
Encapsulated ITU-R M.1371 radio message. Note that messages 5 and Message Format
19 may be sent as multi part messages using the x1, x2 and x3
parameters for message sequence control !--VDO,x1,x2,x3,a,s--s,x*hh<CR><LF>
• x1 = Total number of sentences needed to transfer the message
, 1 to 9
VDL Message Number VDM Message Description
• x2 = Sentence number, 1 to 9
AIS Target Display Information
• x3 = Sequential message identifier, 0 to 9
1, 2, 3, 9,18, 21 position report
• a = AIS Channel, "A" or "B"
4 base station report
5 voyage related data
• s - - s = Encapsulated ITU-R M.1371 radio message 4

19 Class B – extended data • x = Number of fill-bits , 0 to 5

Safety message handling

12 addressed safety related
14 broadcast safety related
External Application handling
6 binary addressed

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

VDO Message VDO Message Description • x7 = Power level control

Number • a3 = Information source
AIS Target Display Information • x8 = In-Use Flag
13 Safety Related Acknowledgement
• hhmmss.ss = Time of "in-use" change
18 Standard Class B position report (Includes MMSI, SOG,
position accuracy, lat, long, COG, true heading,) ACS Message Format
24a Class B “CS” Static data Part A (Includes MMSI and vessel This sentence is used in conjunction with the ACA sentence and
name) identifies the originator of an ACA message.
24b Class B “CS” Static data Part B (Includes MMSI, ship type, $--ACS,x,xxxxxxxxx, hhmmss.ss,xx,xx,xxxx*hh <CR><LF>
cargo type, call sign, ship dimensions)
• x = Sequence Number , 0 to 9
• xxxxxxxxx = MMSI of originator
ACA Message Format • hhmmss.ss = UTC of receipt of channel management
The CSB200 unit can receive regional channel management information information
(ACA) in two ways: ITU-R M.1371 message 22 or a DSC telecommand
received on channel 70,
• xx = UTC Day, 01 -31
Message Format • xx = UTC Month, 01 -12
$--ACA,x,llll.ll,a,yyyyy.yy,a,llll.ll,a1,y1y1y1y1y.y1y1,a2,x1,x2x2x2x2, • xxxx = UTC Year
x3,x4x4x4x4, x5,x6,x7,a3,x8,hhmmss.ss*hh <CR><LF>
• x = Sequence Number , 0 to 9 ALR Message Format
• IIII, II, a = Region Northeast corner latitude – N/S Alarm message
• yyyyy.yy,a1 = Region Northeast corner longitude – E/W $--ALR,hhmmss.ss,xxx,A,A,c--c*hh<CR><LF>
• llll.ll,a = Region Southwest corner latitude – N/S • hhmmss.ss = Time of alarm (UTC)
• y1y1y1y1y1.y1y1,a2 = Region Southwest corner longitude – • xxx = Unique alarm number
E/W
• A = Alarm condition
• x1 = Transition Zone Size
• A = Alarm acknowledge state
• x2x2x2x2 = Channel A • c--c = Alarm description, text
• x3 = Channel A bandwidth Alarms descriptions presented are:
• x4x4x4x4 = Channel B • AIS: TX malfunction

• x5 = Channel B bandwidth • AIS: Antenna VSWR exceeds limit

• x6 = Tx/Rx mode control • AIS: Rx channel 1 malfunction

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS
• AIS: Rx channel 2 malfunction
• AIS: general failure PRODUCT SPECIFICATION
• AIS: no sensor position in use
• AIS: no valid SOG information Physical: Dimensions 190 x 128 x 50 mm (L x W x H)
• AIS: no valid COG information Weight 600g
• AIS: 12V alarm
• AIS: 5V alarm
Power: DC (9.6-15.6V)

• AIS: Loss of serial interface integrity Average power consumption 4W

• AIS: Background noise above -77dBm Peak current rating 2A

GPS Receiver:
ACK Message Format
Can be generated by a minimum keypad and display (MKD) unit, chart IEC 61108-1 compliant
plotter or other display device connected to the CSB200 to acknowledge
an alarm condition reported by the CSB200.
Electrical Interfaces:
$--ACK,xxx*hh <CR><LF>
• xxx = Unique alarm number RS232 38.4kBaud bi-directional

RS422 NMEA 38.4kBaud bi-directional

RMC Message Format
Connectors:
Own vessels GPS information
$GPRMC,hhmmss.ss,A,llll.lllll,a,yyyyy.yyyyy,a,x.x,x.x,xxxxxx,x.x,a,a*hh< Power
CR><LF>
VHF Antenna connector BNC
• hhmmss.ss = UTC of position fix
• A = Data Valid V = Navigation receiver warning
GPS Antenna connector TNC

• llll.lllll,a = Latitude, N/S Interface RS232/RS422

• yyyyy.yyyyy,a = Longitude, E/W

VHF Transceiver:
• x.x = Speed over ground, knots
Transmitter x 1
• x.x = Course over ground, degrees True
Receiver x 2
• xxxxxx = Date, ddmmyy
(One receiver time shared between AIS and DSC)
• A = Mode indicator Autonomous
Frequency: 156.025 to 162.025 MHz in 25 kHz steps

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

Output Power:

33dBm ± 1.5 dB

Channel Bandwidth: Standards

25kHz This product complies with all the necessary standards under the
European R&TTE directive for Article 3.1(a), 3.1(b), 3.2 and 3.3(e). The
following standards have been followed in pursuance of this:
Modulation Modes:
IEC62287-1: 2006-03 Maritime navigation and radio communication
equipment and systems – Class B ship borne equipment of the automatic
25kHz GMSK (AIS, TX and RX) identification system (AIS) – Part 1: Carrier-sense time division multiple
access (CSTDMA) techniques
25kHz AFSK (DSC, RX only)
IEC60945: 2002-08 Maritime navigation and radio communication
equipment and systems – General requirements – Methods of testing and
Bit rate: 9600 b/s ± 50 ppm (GMSK)
required test results
1200 b/s ± 30 ppm (FSK) IEC61162-1: Maritime navigation and radio communication equipment
and systems – Digital interfaces – Part 1: Single talker and multiple
VHF Receiver: listeners
IEC61108-1: GLOBAL NAVIGATION SATELLITE SYSTEMS (GNSS) –
Sensitivity - 107dBm 25kHz (Message Error Rate 20%)
Part 1: Global positioning system (GPS) -Receiver equipment -
Co-Channel 10dB Performance standards, methods of testing and required test results
Adjacent Channel 70dB EN 301 843-1 v2.1: Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum
Matters (ERM); Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) standard for marine
IMD 65dB radio equipment and services; Part 1: Common technical requirements
Blocking 84dB EN 50383: 2002 Basic standard for calculation and measurement of
electromagnetic field strength and SAR related to human exposure from
Environmental radio base stations and fixed terminal stations for wireless
telecommunications system (110MHz – 40GHz)
IEC 60945
EN60950-1:2002 Information technology equipment – Safety – Part 1:
Operating Temperature: -25ºC to +55ºC General requirements

Indicators
On, TX, RX, Status, TX timeout, Error, TX Off

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

GLOSSARY MMSI Maritime Mobile Service Identity

MPE Maximum Permissible Exposure
ACA (AIS) Regional Assignment Channel Assignment Message
NMEA National Marine Electronics Association
ACK Acknowledgement
PC Personal Computer
ACS (AIS) Channel management information source messages
PI Presentation Interface
AFSK Audio frequency-shift keying
RF Radio Frequency
ALR (AIS) Alarm Message
RTCM Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services
A to N Aid to Navigation Commission
AIS Automatic Identification System RX Receive or Receiver
BIIT Built In Integrity Testing RFI Radio Frequency Interference
BNC Bayonet fitting type RF connector SAR Specific Absorption Rate
COG Course over Ground SELV Separated Extra Low Voltage
CR Carriage Return SMS Short Message System
CS Carrier Sense SOG Speed over Ground
CSTDMA Carrier Sense Time Division Multiple Access SRM Safety Related Message
DC Direct Current TDMA Time-division Multiple Access
DGNSS Differential Global Navigation Satellite System TNC Threaded type RF connector
DSC Digital Selective Calling TX Transmit or Transmitter
GLONASS Global Navigation Satellite System UTC Universal Time Co-ordinated
GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System VDM (AIS) VHF Data Link Messages
GMSK Gaussian Minimum Shift Keying VDO (AIS) VHF data link own vessel messages
GPS Global Positioning Satellite / System VHF Very High Frequency
HF High Frequency VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio
IMO International Maritime Organization
IEC International Electro technical Commission
LED Light Emitting Diode
LF Line Feed
LNA Low-noise Amplifier
MF Medium Frequency
MKD Minimum Keypad and Display

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CSB200 Class B AIS CSB200 Class B AIS

COMAR SYSTEMS LTD

Medina Court
Arctic Road
Cowes
Isle of Wight
PO31 7XD
United Kingdom

Telephone: +44 (0)1983 282400

Fax: +44 (0)1983 280402
E-Mail: techsupport@comarsystems.com
Internet: www.comarsystems.com

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