Overview

The Garmin Cortex Hub is an AIS Class B SOTDMA transponder that also handles onboard and remote vessel monitoring and control through NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, and WiFi.

It accepts 9-33 VDC for 12 V and 24 V systems, transmits AIS at 5 W, and comes in a 168 x 168 x 58.7 mm housing (770 g) rated waterproof to IPX7.

Onboard, it shares AIS and GPS data to chartplotters and other electronics, and you can view system data and supported monitoring screens from a connected mobile device or a Cortex handset. VHF voice and DSC functions are available when paired with a Cortex H1 or H1P handset.

Key features

• Class B SOTDMA AIS transponder with 5 W output and two dedicated AIS receive channels.
• Built-in GNSS receiver supporting GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, and Galileo with a 10 Hz navigation rate.
• NMEA 2000 gateway via an isolated Micro-C port plus an isolated NMEA 0183 port supporting 4800 or 38400 baud.
• WiFi access point for up to 10 devices (2.4 GHz 802.11b/g/n) with WPA2 security.
• Built-in cellular modem for off-boat connectivity (LTE Cat1 with 3G fallback in USA and Canada, 3G in EU and Asia).
• Integrated AIS/VHF splitter supports sharing a single AIS/VHF antenna and provides an auxiliary connection for an existing VHF radio (max input 25 W).
• 9-33 VDC input with about 0.5 A nominal draw at 12 V and up to 6 A max at 12 V.
• Supports 25 W VHF voice and Class D DSC functions when paired with a Cortex H1 or H1P handset.

Variants

This product is offered in multiple Cortex Hub configurations.

The core system centers on AIS Class B SOTDMA plus networking and monitoring features, while the version determines whether VHF functions are included as a complete setup or left ready to expand with a handset.

• 010-02815-20: Version AIS and Monitor. This configuration focuses on AIS and monitoring through the hub, with VHF functions available when a compatible handset is added.
• 010-02814-20: Version VHF, AIS and Monitor. This configuration includes a Cortex H1 tethered handset so VHF voice and DSC functions run through the handset while the hub handles AIS and monitoring.

Installation and setup

Mount the hub in a serviceable interior location and leave about 50 mm (2 in) of clearance at the connectors for cable bend radius and access. The external WiFi antenna works best upright, so allow roughly 200 mm (8 in) of vertical clearance.

The hub uses an internal heading sensor, so avoid mounting on or right next to ferrous metal and keep safe compass distances in mind (about 0.8 m standard, 0.4 m steering). Power is 9-33 VDC; a fuse or circuit breaker is required but not supplied.

Network and system integration

Connect to a NMEA 2000 backbone using the hub’s isolated Micro-C port (a drop cable and tee are typically required). For older equipment, the isolated NMEA 0183 port supports 4800 or 38400 baud and can translate gateway data between NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183.

For setup and onboard use, the hub provides a WiFi access point that can connect with up to 10 devices.

Antenna and radio considerations

The AIS/VHF antenna connection is SO-239, and the built-in splitter allows a single antenna to be shared with an existing VHF radio through the auxiliary splitter connection. The AIS/VHF antenna itself is not included, so confirm connector type and antenna suitability before installation.

Use cases on board

This setup fits boats that need Class B SOTDMA AIS on the network and want the option to monitor onboard conditions through connected sensors and control outputs. It also works well when you want VHF stations away from the helm, since VHF calling and DSC functions can be handled through the handset interface while the hub remains the central AIS and monitoring unit.