AMEC B650 Class B SOTDMA AIS Transponder
The AMEC B650 delivers 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS performance in a compact, rugged, and highly efficient package.
Designed for cruisers, sailors, and power-conscious vessels, the B650 provides dependable AIS transmission and reception without the added complexity of Wi-Fi or an integrated antenna splitter. It is an excellent choice for vessels with a dedicated AIS antenna or existing splitter installation.
- 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS transponder
- Dedicated AIS antenna installation
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- Low average current draw for continuous operation
Built on SOTDMA (Self-Organized Time Division Multiple Access) technology, the B650 provides faster and more reliable transmission performance compared to traditional Class B CSTDMA systems. This helps improve vessel visibility and tracking accuracy, especially in congested waterways and high-traffic AIS environments. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The B650 supports both NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 connectivity, along with USB-C configuration and data access. With multi-constellation GNSS support, rugged IP68 protection, and flexible onboard integration options, it is well suited for modern recreational and light commercial vessels. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Technology Overview
SOTDMA technology allows the B650 to reserve AIS transmission slots in advance, providing more predictable and dependable AIS broadcasts than legacy Class B systems. This is especially valuable in busy harbors, narrow waterways, and offshore traffic zones where reliable AIS visibility matters. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Key Features
- 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS transponder for enhanced transmission performance
- No Wi-Fi — ideal for wired-only installations
- No integrated splitter — ideal for dedicated AIS antenna installations
- Faster and more reliable reporting than Class B CSTDMA systems
- Improved target tracking in high-traffic AIS environments
- Integrated high-sensitivity GNSS receiver
- Optional external GPS antenna available here
- NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 connectivity
- USB-C interface for configuration and diagnostics
- Compact, low-power design for continuous operation
Applications
- Recreational cruising vessels
- Sailboats and power-conscious offshore cruisers
- Coastal and offshore passagemaking
- Fishing and sailing vessels
- Dedicated AIS antenna installations
- Workboats and light commercial applications
- Fleet tracking and AIS monitoring
Top Specifications – B650
- 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS transponder (37 dBm nominal output)
- Dedicated AIS antenna installation
- Low power consumption: 120 mA average / 1.7 A peak @ 12V DC
- Wide input voltage range: 9.6 – 31.2 V DC (12V / 24V systems)
- Dual AIS receivers with high sensitivity (< -111 dBm)
- Multi-constellation GNSS support: GPS, Galileo, BeiDou, GLONASS
- 72-channel GNSS receiver with approx. 2.5 m horizontal positioning accuracy
- NMEA 2000 Version 3.0, LEN=1
- Dual NMEA 0183 bi-directional ports
- USB-C interface for configuration and data output
- IP68 waterproof and dust-resistant housing
- Compact form factor: 151.22 x 128.57 x 49.87 mm, 400 g