Overview

The Simrad 000-13613-001 is an external GPS antenna for the NAIS-500 AIS transceiver, supplied with a 10 m (33 ft) cable and an SMA connector.

It gives the AIS transceiver a dedicated GPS position source, which is especially useful when the NAIS-500 is mounted below deck and needs the antenna placed where it can see the sky. With the cable already attached, you can plan a clean route to the transceiver without adding coax extensions right out of the box.

Key features

• 10 m (33 ft) attached cable helps reach a below deck NAIS-500 installation without splices
• SMA connector matches the NAIS-500 external GPS antenna port
• Mounting flexibility for common boat layouts: surface mount on a flat area or pole mount on a 1 inch 14 TPI threaded pole
• Useful as a replacement GPS antenna for NAIS-500 AIS transceivers that need a new antenna or a re-run to a better location

Installation and setup

Choose a mounting spot with a clear view of the sky, away from large metal obstructions that can block satellites. Avoid placing it in the direct path of a radar transmitter, and avoid mounting it high on a mast where vessel motion can make the antenna swing, which can affect GPS stability.

Route the cable with a drip loop before it enters the cabin, and keep it supported so it does not chafe in vibration. Once routed, connect the SMA plug to the NAIS-500 GPS antenna input and secure the cable so the connector is not taking strain.

Compatibility and fit

This antenna connects directly to the NAIS-500 via the GPS antenna input and uses an SMA connector. It is not a network GPS sensor and does not tie into NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183 on its own, so the receiving device must have an external GPS antenna port that accepts this type of connection.

Use on board

This is a good match for boats where the AIS transceiver is installed below deck for protection, but the GPS antenna needs to be up on a cabin top, deck, rail, or stern pole to keep a clear sky view. It also suits refits where you are cleaning up an older coax run and want the correct cable length on hand for a tidy installation.