A new AIS search-and-rescue transponder (SART) has been developed in response to a change in the GMDSS rules that allows alternatives to radar SARTs from next January. Norwegian GMDSS equipment specialist Jotron said that the unique feature of its AIS-SART is the combination of compact size and technical capability - the device is only 251 mm high and weighs just 450g.rnThe unit is programmed with a unique identity code and receives its position via an internal GPS antenna. Data are combined and transmitted using the international AIS channels (AIS A and AIS B) in the maritime VHF band. Therntransmission signal from an AIS-SART is a nine-digit MMSI-like ID code: the first three digits are '970', followed by a manufacturer code (two digits) and the unit's unique four-digit serial number.rnAs well as the ID code that appears on the AIS and connected equipment, an AIS-SART is shown as a circle enclosing a cross on an electronic chart, connected to the AIS transponder on board.
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