AMEC B650WS Class B SOTDMA AIS Transponder with Wi-Fi & Integrated Splitter
The AMEC B650WS is the most fully featured model in the B650 series, combining 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS performance, built-in Wi-Fi, and an integrated VHF antenna splitter in one compact unit.
Designed for cruisers, sailors, and power-conscious vessels, the B650WS simplifies installation by allowing the AIS transponder and VHF radio to share a single VHF antenna while also providing wireless AIS data streaming to compatible mobile devices and navigation apps.
- 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS transponder
- Integrated VHF antenna splitter
- Built-in Wi-Fi for wireless AIS data streaming
- Single antenna solution for AIS and VHF
- Low average current draw for continuous operation
Built on SOTDMA (Self-Organized Time Division Multiple Access) technology, the B650WS 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.
The B650WS 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.
Technology Overview
SOTDMA technology allows the B650WS 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.
Key Features
- 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS transponder for enhanced transmission performance
- Integrated VHF antenna splitter for sharing one antenna between AIS and VHF radio
- Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless AIS data streaming
- 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
- Workboats and light commercial applications
- Fleet tracking and AIS monitoring
Top Specifications – B650WS
- 5W Class B SOTDMA AIS transponder (37 dBm nominal output)
- Integrated VHF antenna splitter (single antenna for AIS and VHF)
- Built-in Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n, up to 2 devices in access point mode)
- Low power consumption: 160 mA average / 1.8 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