In a major boost to cruising safety, Simrad Yachting and B&G have just announced new VHF radios that both transmit and receive AIS data. The companies say these are the first radios with this capability. The radios will start shipping in June, with a retail price of $1,099.
Both Simrad and B&S are part of Navico, and the new radios look the same and have the same features. The Simrad is called the RS40-B, while the B&G version is the V60-B. They have wireless handset capability, removeable mic, Class D DSC functionality, built-in GPS and a Class B AIS transceiver. The units have a large screen with an intuitive interface; they also have a front-mountable deign for easy installation.
Earlier versions of these new VHFs were able to receive position data from other vessels, but the breakthrough here is the ability to transmit AIS date to other vessels. This capability should help improve collision avoidance in crowded waterways.
The position of other vessels is clearly visible on the new screens, and it can be overlaid on a chart or radar through compatible multifunction display over NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000.
