Q: From the documentation it appears the device can't extract GPS PGNs from a NMEA2000 network and it needs its own GPS antenna? Does the portable GPS antenna use the SIRF-III or better chipset?

Asked by: Craig Illman - 10/12/2015
A: Yes, that is correct. The CAMINO-108, like other Class B AIS transponders, can not use NMEA 2000 AIS PGNs for position but instead needs its own GPS antenna. The GPS module itself is in the CAMINO. The antenna is simply that - a powered GPS antenna with a low noise amplifier. We sell these as options with the CAMINO-108. If the antenna is not available, the CAMINO can get its GPS position from an external device such as a chartplotter connected to the NMEA input on the CAMINO.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (10/12/2015)

Q: Does the WiFi version work with Navionics boating for ipad, and what app software is required to access AIS data on an iPad? is there any iPad software included? Cheers Bernie

Asked by: BernieG - 6/20/2015
A: Update for 2019: The Navionics app now support connecting to WiFi-based NMEA data streams and also now supports AIS. The WiFi version (CAMINO-108W) is now fully supported by Navionics.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (4/4/2020)

Q: I have read over your information concerning the Camino-108 and I an seriously considering a purchase and a "do it yourself" install. This in my current electronics package. I have a Garmin 526 Chart Plotter. I have a Standard Horizon Matrix GX 2150 VHF. Connected together, they provide AIS reception and emergency SAR with coordinates via the Matrix. I did not do the install on this existing system (I paid for it about 3 years ago). I believe the two instruments talk via NMEA 0183. If I get the 108, will I have issues with installation/interference between the Matrix and the Camino? Since the Garmin has an internal GPS and is located on the pedestal in the cockpit, are there concerns with communications between these devices? Your thoughts and suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Asked by: Jeff Peters - 9/14/2015
A: If you make sure the same MMSI is used in the Matrix and the CAMINO, then your own boat will not show up as a target on the Matrix. However the AIS output from the Matrix will show your own AIS transmission as a target on the Garmin display. So I would recommend connecting the NMEA output from the CAMINO to the NMEA input on the Garmin in place of the NMEA connection you have now from the Matrix to the Garmin. You could connect the DSC output from the 2150 to the 2nd NMEA input on the Garmin so that DSC calls show up on the Garmin with location icons.
There should be no interference issues. Just make sure you have some separation (at least 4 feet) between the VHF antenna and the AIS/VHF antenna - or use an antenna splitter.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (9/15/2015)

Q: Does the WiFi version work with Navionics boating for ipad, and what app software is required to access AIS data on an iPad? is there any iPad software included? Cheers Bernie

Asked by: BernieG - 6/20/2015
A: Unfortunately the Navionics app does not support network connectiions or AIS.
Some of the iOS apps that do support WiFi connections and AIS using the CAMINO-108W include iNavX, SeaIQ, iSailor, SeaPilot and Nobeltec Timezero.
AMEC do have a free iOS app that works with this device which provides a basic AIS display.
Let us know if you have other questions.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (6/20/2015)

Q: I have a Camino 101 that I am trying to update the MMSI on and I can't get it to connect. I dont have the original manual or any cabling thats supposed to come with the unit, and I am trying to connect through the Camino 108 software.

Asked by: brendan - 7/18/2016
A: You can download the CAMINO-101 software from our support - AIS downloads area but note that the MMSI can not be changed by the end user. We offer a reprogramming service if you need to change the MMSI. Info is here: http://www.milltechmarine.com/Transponder-and-radio-reprogramming-service_p_196.html
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (9/23/2016)

Q: I give the wrong Call-Sign/MMSI during the setup from the transponder - is it possible to change them ore use a general reset? Many thanks in advance.... (I am based in Germany). Best regards Volker Deßel

Asked by: volker Dessel - 6/8/2015
A: Unfortunately, as with all Class B transponders, the device needs to be reprogrammed by an authorized dealer. We offer a reprogramming service here: http://www.milltechmarine.com/Transponder-reprogramming-service_p_196.html.
Or you might want to contact a local reseller for the product.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (6/8/2015)

Q: I have a Standard Horizon GX2150, GarminGPS700 and NMEA0183. Believe all I need is the Camino-108 Class B AIS Transponder and the Cubo-161 Antenna Splitter don't I, in order to send/receive? I am relatively new to all of this and want to be able to send/receive. Currently can only receive. Thanks for you help.

Asked by: John Stolz - 10/9/2015
A: Yes you are correct. You can interface the CAMINO-108 to the Garmin chart plotter using NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000 (assuming your model has NMEA 2000). If using NMEA 0183 connect the GRAY and YELLOW NMEA wires on the CAMINO to a NMEA input wire pair on the Garmin, set the baud to 38400, turn on AIS display and it will all work.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (10/9/2015)

Q: Looking for ais out & in, new vhf.? Have raymarine A78 chart plotter with nmea 2 port. 28' cruiser?

Asked by: John - 2/1/2016
A: The CAMINO-108 will interface with the A78 using the NMEA 0183 interface on both devices. It will require its own VHF antenna or you can split your existing VHF antenna using the AMEC CUBO-161 Antenna Splitter.
If you are also looking for a new VHF radio, we would recommend the Standard Horizon GX2000 which can connect to the CAMINO-108 and display AIS targets on the radio as well as the A78.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (2/1/2016)

Q: I have a GPS antenna that was connected to an older Garmin GPS that I no longer use. Can I use this GPS antenna with this device?

Asked by: jkowalke - 7/1/2016
A: Some of the older Garmin GPS antennas and sensors are not compatible with current AIS transponders such as the CAMINO-108. We'd recommend using one of our recommended GPS antennas to be safe.
NOTE: AIS transponders use an active GPS antenna with a built-in low noise amplifier that carries 3-5vDC upstream and the GPS signal downstream. Using any AIS transponder with an incompatible GPS antenna can damage your equipment.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (7/1/2016)

Q: Will this unit match up with the Garmin 4210 chart plotter? If so, will it use the 4210 GPS hook up or will a separate GPS antenna be required?

Asked by: Bill - 9/5/2016
A: Yes, the CAMINO-108 works great with the Garmin 4210 either using the NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000 interface.
It is possible to send GPS data to the CAMINO from the the chartplotter and have the CAMINO use that for GPS positioning although we still recommend using a dedicated GPS antenna with the CAMINO 108.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (9/5/2016)

Q: I have a GX 2150 and a Standard Horizon CP390i chartplotter located on the flybridge. They are currently connected via NMEA 0183 and work well. I see AIS targets on both the radio and the plotter. What would the the correct way to insert a Camino 108 into this system? Also what would be the best way to replicate the display to my lower helm station which is not used very often

Asked by: Ed Thornton - 9/16/2016
A: You could use the CAMINO and send NMEA 0183 data from it to the CP390i or just use it as a transmitter and leave the existing setup in place. The one downside of using your current setup with a new transponder is that your own boat will show as a target on the chartplotter. You could hook a second chartplotter display to the CAMINO as well using the NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000 interface. Or consider using a computer with nav software such as Coastal Explorer on the lower helm and connect it to the USB port on the CAMINO.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (9/18/2016)

Q: Could this be set up using a raspberry pi? Could I use the transponder to give my ships location to the raspberry pi as well as received data regarding other ships' positions?

Asked by: Ali - 2/2/2017
A: I have no idea. The device outputs standard NMEA sentences via the USB and NMEA ports. If those could be interfaced with the pi then I suppose it is possible.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (2/7/2017)

Q: Is your AMEC Camino-108 and Cubo-162 compatible with the Humminbird Helix 9. Humminbird says it is NMEA 2000 compatible, but will I need any special cables or ? Thanks, Ralph Aeschliman

Asked by: Ralph Aeschliman - 3/31/2017
A: If your chartplotter support NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183 and supports display of AIS targets, then it will work with the AMEC CAMINO-108. We also sell NMEA 2000 cables of various lengths as well as T connectors if you want to use NMEA 2000 - which is definitely the easiest way to go.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (3/31/2017)

Q: I have a Raymarine 120 gps receiver tied to my Raymarine chartplotter. Is it possible to split the signal from the gps to serve both the chartplotter and the AIS transponder? I use the usb incoming AIS feed into my pc-based chartware to identify and track AIS-enabled vessels. (opencpn with a separate portable usb gps. Thanks, A current SR161 user

Asked by: Otter - 5/23/2017
A: You need to use the GPS system that is part of the CAMINO-108 which requires an external GPS antenna. We include a portable GPS antenna which can often be used inside the cabin or you have the option to purchase and install an external marine-grade GPS antenna since as the AMEC GA-22 GPS Antenna. Both AIS and GPS NMEA data will be output on the USB connection and both can be used with your nav software.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (5/24/2017)

Q: Does your unit come with a short VHF cable to connect to the Radio from the splitter?

Asked by: rich - 6/25/2017
A: Since the CAMINO-108S has an integrated splitter, it includes a VHF cable to go back to a VHF radio.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (6/27/2017)

Q: If I connect this unit vi NMEA 2000 to a Garmin chartplotter, do I need to have a GPS antenna connected to the transponder or can it just use the GPS data from the Garmin over the network?

Asked by: Rich - 6/25/2017
A: Yes, you will still need to use the integrated GPS and antenna even though GPS PGNs exist on the NMEA 2000 network. This is required by the AIS regs.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (6/27/2017)

Q: I want to use this with openCPN running on an android pad. Do you know if this configuration will work? How sensitive is the included GSP antenna? If I mount it below deck in a fiberglass sailboat is it likely to work? How big is the Antenna?

Asked by: mark - 7/7/2017
A: Yes, this products works with OpenCPN on Android. We worked with the OpenCPN team and they got it working fine.
The GPS antenna that is included works well below deck in most non-metal boats. The antenna is about 1 x 1.5 inches and includes 12 feet of cable. We also sell external GPS antennas if needed.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (7/8/2017)

Q: Can you quote me the following product? - (01) AMEC CAMINO-108 Class A AIS Transmitter

Asked by: marlene fajardo linares - 7/25/2017
A: Add the item(s) you wish to order to your shopping cart, enter your destination address and options and prices will be displayed for shipping.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (8/17/2017)

Q: I currently have dual 2005 version Raymarine with e120 MFD's linked with Seatalk. currently I have an AIS Receiver connected directly to one of the MFD's and looking to upgrade to a Transceiver. The current AIS only has two wires connected, would I need to change the pigtail to connect a transceiver into the MFD's? I did find an unconnected wire which is connected into the same pigtail which has six wires in it, is this mabe the wire I'd use for a AMEC Transponder?

Asked by: Mike - 10/16/2017
A: To upgrade this sort of setup you would normally disconnect the two NMEA data output wires currently coming from the AIS receiver and instead connect the two NMEA output wires from the AIS transponder. Make sure all device use the same baud rate - normally 38400 baud. That is usually all that is involved.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (10/16/2017)

Q: What is the cost for the recommended GPS antenna for the Camino-108?

Asked by: Mike - 10/21/2017
A: All of the CAMINO-108 models come with a free portable GPS antenna that typically works well inside a wood or fiberglass boat. If you want to purchase an external GPS antenna we recommend the AMEC GA-22 which is $49. Information on this antenna can be found here: https://www.milltechmarine.com/AMEC-GPS-Antenna_p_390.html.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (10/21/2017)

Q: will this unit work through nmea2000 to work with a Garmin 4210 chart plotter?

Asked by: bill - 5/20/2020
A: Yes, the CAMINO models will send AIS and GPS PGNs when connected to a NMEA 2000 network allowing a NMEA 2000 capable chartplotter, such as the Garmin 4210, to use the PGN data to display AIS targets on the chartplotter.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (5/20/2020)

Q: Where is this made?

Asked by: Dave - 7/4/2020
A: The AMEC products are made in Taiwan by Alltek Marine Electronics. More information on the company can be found here: http://www.alltekmarine.com/
Milltech Marine has been a distributor for AMEC for over 10 years.
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Answer provided by: Doug Miller (7/5/2020)

Q: I have a AMEC AIS class B unit. How often does the unit transmit my position. Is the frequency of transmission based on vessel speed? Sometime I don’t see my boat for lengthy periods of time.

Asked by: Lyn - 6/27/2024
No Answers have been submitted yet.