Garmin Cortex smartAIS Transponder & Vessel Monitoring Hub, Class B SOTDMA, 5W, NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183, WiFi, Cellular, 9-33V, IPX7

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.

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We ship throughout the United States and to most international destinations for products eligible for international shipping. International orders may be subject to customs duties, taxes, brokerage charges, or other import fees, which are the customer's responsibility and are not included in the product or shipping price. PO Boxes are accepted only when shipping through USPS, and not all packages qualify for this option. If your order does not arrive within the estimated delivery window, please contact us at info@apollolighting.com or +1 (954) 375-0100 so we can assist with locating your package.

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Returns may be requested within 30 days of receiving your order. Items must be unused, uninstalled, unaltered, and returned in their original packaging with all tags, packing materials, blank warranty cards, manuals, instructions, accessories, and included items. Certain products, including installed or used electronics, electrical components, lighting, consumables, custom or special-order items, cut-to-length products, safety equipment, and merchandise exposed to water or marine conditions, may not be eligible for return.

To request a return, sign in to your account and select the applicable order and items, and submit your request for review. Eligible unfulfilled items may also be submitted for cancellation within 1 hour of placing the order. Returns or cancellations are not considered approved until you receive confirmation from Apollo Lighting. Please do not ship or drop off merchandise before receiving return approval and instructions.

Customers are responsible for arranging and paying for return shipping unless the return is due to an error by Apollo Lighting or the item is verified as defective, damaged, or incorrect. Missing, damaged, defective, or incorrect items must be reported within 2 business days of delivery, and photos or other documentation may be required for review. If the issue is verified, Apollo Lighting may provide or reimburse return shipping and issue a replacement or refund depending on the circumstances. International customers are responsible for return shipping, duties, taxes, customs charges, brokerage fees, and other costs associated with an international return.

After your return is received and inspected, approved refunds are issued to the original payment method and may take 5-7 business days to appear after processing. Original shipping and handling charges are nonrefundable, and the value of any included free items that are not returned may be deducted from the refund. Apollo Lighting does not charge a standard restocking fee on eligible returns. Returns that are incomplete, damaged, installed, used, altered, improperly packaged, or otherwise do not meet the eligibility requirements may be refused. We recommend using a trackable and appropriately insured shipping service for all customer-arranged returns.

For assistance, contact info@apollolighting.com or call +1 (954) 375-0100.

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Many products sold by Apollo Lighting include a manufacturer's warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship. Warranty terms vary by brand, product category, and model, so eligibility, coverage duration, exclusions, and available remedies are determined by the applicable manufacturer. We recommend reviewing the warranty information provided with your product before installation or use, especially for marine electronics, navigation equipment, lighting, electrical systems, pumps, safety equipment, and other specialized marine products.

If you need warranty service, the claim must follow the process established by the manufacturer, authorized service center, or designated warranty provider. You may be asked for proof of purchase, a serial number, product registration, photos, maintenance or installation records, or other documentation. Apollo Lighting does not determine or modify a manufacturer's warranty coverage or final claim decision, but we are happy to help provide purchase information and direct you to the appropriate manufacturer or warranty resource.

Keep your receipt, product documentation, serial number information, and original packaging when practical. Damage caused by normal wear, misuse, improper installation, insufficient maintenance, corrosion, impact, unauthorized modifications, electrical issues, or operation outside the manufacturer's specifications may not be covered. Warranty claims are separate from standard returns, so a product that has been installed, used, or exposed to marine conditions may no longer qualify for return while still remaining eligible for evaluation under the manufacturer's applicable warranty.

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