Antenna Splitters

AIS VHF Antenna Splitters allow you to automatically share your existing VHF antenna with your AIS receiver or transponder and your VHF radio.

Antenna splitters simplify installation and reduce cable runs. Signal loss is minimal on modern AIS/VHF antenna splitter and is far outweighed by the advantages of an antenna optimally located at the highest point available (sailboat masthead, power yacht cabin top or arch).

Modern antenna splitters have an amplifier on the receive path so reception for both AIS and VHF radios can be improved with a splitter. When the radio or AIS transponder transmits, it has a temporary exclusive path to the antenna while transmitting so loss is minimal. Once installed, a VHF/AIS antenna splitter operates in a fully automated mode handling seamless reception and transmission of both AIS transponders and your VHF radio.

NOTE: Splitters designed for use with AIS receivers (e.g. Comar ASR 100 and the Smart Radio splitter) will not work with AIS transponders. All of the antenna splitters listed in this section can be used with both AIS receivers and AIS transponder.

Want more info on the pros and cons of using an antenna splitter? Check out our blog article here.

QUICK TIP: Have a single-masted sailboat? Consider a splitter (especially if you're a racer). Splitter signal loss is minimal and is typically not enough to cause a noticeable reduction in VHF radio range while the AIS range gained from the masthead position can be excellent. Cost will be about equal to a second antenna mounted on a rail plus there will be savings in weight (and no cable-running headaches!)

Quick Tip

QUICK TIP: Have a power boat without space for an additional VHF antenna on cabin top or arch? A splitter will help reduce antenna clutter. Placing your AIS antenna too close to another antenna (even if the other antenna is not active) can greatly reduce AIS reception. This makes a splitter a good choice when space is at a premium.