Guidelines for installing AIS units have been developed by the International Maritime Organization. Refer to IMO Safety of Navigation Circular 227—Guidelines for the installation of a shipborne automatic identification system [1].
Programming an AIS unit depends on specific manufacturer requirements. Incorrect programming of an AIS unit may prevent the accurate display of information about that vessel.
AIS Class A units are user configurable and may need a password to change programmed information. Static data must be programmed correctly and includes ship name, maritime mobile service identity (MMSI) number, length, breadth, and so on.
AIS Class B units may not be user configurable. You may need to contact the manufacturer or retailer for instructions.
Read more about AIS Class A and B units [2].
All AIS units require a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) number to operate. MMSIs are allocated according to international standards.
Find out how to get an MMSI in Australia [3].AIS units are not ‘registered’ in the same way as emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) or emergency beacons.
Links
[1] https://wwwcdn.imo.org/localresources/en/OurWork/Safety/Documents/AIS/SN.1-Circ.227.pdf
[2] https://www.amsa.gov.au/safety-navigation/navigation-systems/types-automatic-identification-systems
[3] https://www.amsa.gov.au/safety-navigation/distress-beacons/about-maritime-mobile-service-identity-information