The Simrad AI70 has a remote mounting transponder and uses a compact control unit (MKD). The new Simrad AI71 has the display and controls integrated into the Class A Mobile Station. The Simrad MKD is a compact control unit that can be installed within reach of the mariner, in accordance with the IMO installation guidelines. It provides you with the vessel ́s position, speed and course over ground as well as static and voyage related information. AI70/71 features • Ship name/Call sign/MMSI/IMO number • Date and time in UTC time of composition of message • Position WGS84; Latitude/Longitude degrees & minutes • Course over ground (COG) in degrees • Speed over ground (SOG) in knots and 1/10 knots • Destination/ETA • Actual maximum draught in 1/10 of meters • Ship/Cargo (Static and voyage realated data) • Length/Beams • Number of persons on board • SMS (Free) • Graphical display of AIS targets (AI70 only) GPS Positioning The vessel ́s primary GPS receiver is used as the main positioning source. However, the AI70/71 also incorporates an ”all-in-view” GPS receiver used for both time synchro- nisation and also as back up for the primary GPS receiver. Easy installation The remotely installed transponder with separate display provides a simple installation solution, saving time and money. Simrad AIS MKD The Simrad AIS MKD functionality has been extended and can now provide a graphical display of received AIS targets. The Simrad AI71 can also be upgraded to use the Simrad MKD as an option, providing the same functions as the AI70. ECDIS / ECS interfacing Interfacing to ECDIS & ECS chart systems can be provided. The Simrad AI70/71 can also interface to Radar, Gyro and THD. VHF data communication VHF data communication is used for all communication purposes. The Simrad AI70/71 uses the IMO defined transmission protocol with three VHF transceivers operating on the international AIS frequencies. (VHF channel 70 is used for channel switching in areas where non standard AIS frequencies are used.)