WideLink B600

AIS Class B Transponder

WideLink B600

SOTDMA

( )

USER MANUAL

The entire contents of this instruction manual, including any future updates, revisions,

and modifications, shall remain the property of AMEC at all times. Unauthorized copies

or reproduction of this manual, either in part or whole, in any form of print and

electronic media, is prohibited. The contents herein can only be used for the intended

purpose of this manual.

DISCLAIMER

AMEC is devoted to publish and maintain this product manual. As we continue to

improve our AIS products to satisfy all customers’ needs, information in this document

is subject to change without notice. AMEC does not make any representations or

warranties (implied or otherwise) regarding the accuracy and completeness of this

document and shall in no event be liable for any loss of profit or any commercial

damage, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other

damage.

Manual Revision: Version 2.3

WARNING!

WARNING: The device must be installed and configured in conformity with the

provided instructions in the manual by qualified installer in order to ensure the

device performance.

WARNING: It is the responsibility of the operator to handle the AIS device with

care. The device cannot replace human vigilance. Therefore it is important to keep

a diligent outlook at all times.

WARNING: Please bear in mind that not all vessels are equipped with AIS

transponders and therefore may not be visible to this device. Likewise, certain

conditions, such as device malfunction, the environment, improper use, and

overcrowded port traffic, may exist whereby the vessel equipped with this AIS

device is not visible to other AIS transponders.

WARNING: DO NOT DISASSEMBLE OR MODIFY THE EQUIPMENT. Improper

disassembly or modification could impair its performance and will invalidate the

guarantee.

FOR USERS IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ONLY

WARNING: It is a violation of the rules of the Federal Communications

Commission to input an MMSI that has not been properly assigned to the

end user, or to otherwise input any inaccurate data in this device.

★ The entry of static data into this device shall be performed by the vendor of

the device or by an appropriately qualified person in the business of installing

marine communications equipment on board vessels.

★ Instructions on how to accurately enter and confirm static data in the device

can be found in this user manual.

FOREWORD

We thank you for the purchase of your new WideLink B600, AIS SOTDMA class B

transponder. Wherever you sail now, you can have a better overview of your

surroundings at sea and voyage with more safety.

WideLink B600 is strictly tested to meet the rigorous demands of the marine

environment. With proper installation and use, the equipment will serve loyally and

reliably at its optimum.

For sales, services, and technical supports, please contact your local AMEC

representatives or Alltek Marine Electronics Corp at sales@alltekmarine.com or

[email protected]. You are always welcome to visit our website at

www.alltekmarine.com for new product status and company update.

Thank you again. Be safe.

TABLE OF CONTENT

1 SYSTEM OVERVIEW ........................................................................................................................ 7

1.1 PRODUCT DESCRIPTION ......................................................................................................... 7

1.2 CLASS A VS. SOTDMA CLASS B VS. CSTDMA CLASS B ............................................................. 10

1.3 EQUIPMENT IN THE BOX ....................................................................................................... 11

2 INSTALLATION .................................................................................................................................. 12

2.1 INSTALLATION PROCEDURES .................................................................................................. 12

2.2 MOUNTING DEVICE MAIN UNIT ............................................................................................ 13

2.3 VHF ANTENNA INSTALLATION ............................................................................................... 14

2.4 CONNECTING TO VHF RADIO (B600S ONLY) ............................................................................ 15

2.4.1 FM radio connection (B600S only) .................................................................................. 15

2.5 GPS ANTENNA INSTALLATION................................................................................................ 16

2.6 CONNECTING WITH NMEA 0183 DEVICES .............................................................................. 17

2.7 AIS SILENT MODE CONNECTION ............................................................................................ 18

2.8 CONNECTION TO NMEA 2000 NETWORK ............................................................................... 19

2.9 CONNECTING TO A CHARTING PROGRAM VIA USB ...................................................................... 20

2.10 CONNECTING POWER CABLE ................................................................................................. 21

3 CONFIGURING YOUR WIDELINK B600 .................................................................................... 22

3.1 CONNECTING TO YOUR AIS TRANSPONDER ............................................................................... 22

3.1.1 Required Items ............................................................................................................... 22

3.1.2 Installing “AIS Configuration Tool” .................................................................................. 22

3.1.3 Three steps to connect the AIS transponder ................................................................... 23

3.1.4 Home page of the application ........................................................................................ 24

3.2 PROGRAMMING YOUR VESSEL DATA ......................................................................................... 25

4 GET STARTED .................................................................................................................................... 26

4.1 LED INDICATORS ................................................................................................................ 26

4.2 MICRO SD CARD................................................................................................................ 27

4.2.1 Data Logging ................................................................................................................... 27

4.2.2 Firmware Upgrade via Micro SD Card ............................................................................. 27

4.3 WI-FI CONFIGURATION (WIDELINK B600W ONLY) ................................................................... 28

4.3.1 Access Point Mode ......................................................................................................... 28

4.3.2 Client Mode .................................................................................................................... 30

4.4 BUILT-IN INTEGRITY TEST (BIIT)............................................................................................. 31

5 SPECIFICATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 32

5.1 PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................... 32

5.2 DIMENSIONS ..................................................................................................................... 34

5.3 SUPPORTED NMEA 2000 PGN AND TRANSLATION LIST ............................................................ 36

5.4 SUPPORTED NMEA 0183 SENTENCES .................................................................................... 38

6 TROUBLESHOOTING ...................................................................................................................... 39

7 ABBREVIATIONS .............................................................................................................................. 41

8 FCC INTERFERENCE STATEMENT .............................................................................................. 42

9 RF EXPOSURE WARNING .............................................................................................................. 43

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY ........................................................................................................ 43

INDUSTRY CANADA NOTICE ................................................................................................................. 43

AMEC WORLDWIDE WARRANTY ........................................................................................................ 44

APPENDIX: HOW TO DETERMINE SERIAL PORT .......................................................................... 45

1 System Overview

1.1 Product Description

WideLink B600 is an SOTDMA AIS class B, the next evolution of AIS technology. Its 5W

transmit power, higher reporting rate and professional grade time division management

make B600 an overall more advanced product compared to AIS class B based on

CSTDMA scheme.

Its enhanced housing with IPx7 waterproof and shock and temperature robustness is

ideal to survive harsh marine environments. Chart plotter and PC can be easily

integrated over its NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183 and waterproof USB port. Its integrated

micro SD card can record AIS data and make firmware upgrade in the most intuitive

way.

The WideLink B600 converts NMEA 2000 instrument data into NMEA 0183 sentences,

such as heading, speed, depth, temperature, wind, pressure and so on. With the

multiplexing function, sensor data along with AIS and GPS information can be displayed

on chart plotters and PC programs. Its internal GNSS receiver with 72 channels

supporting GPS and GLONASS by default and optional BeiDou and Galileo.

The integrated high-performance Wi-Fi (WideLink B600W only) together with AMEC AIS

App makes your favorite smartphone or tablet a real-time AIS position plotter.

The built-in splitter (WideLink B600S only) featuring zero insertion loss on reception

path and low insertion loss on transmission path ensures optimized range of your VHF

radio and AIS transponder. Its self-test function gives a simple diagnosis in the event of

antenna problem and system failure. It supports transparent mode to ensure priority to

VHF radio operation even if the splitter has power failure.

WideLink B600/B600W

Front Back

WideLink B600S

Front Back

B600 exchanges the following navigational data with other AIS equipped vessels within

VHF range to increase the safety of your journey at sea:

 Static data:

 Ship´s name

 Call sign

 MMSI

 Ship type

 Location of GPS antenna on the ship

 Dynamic data:

 Position of the vessel

 Course over ground (COG)

 Speed over ground (SOG)

 True heading

The transponder receives also safety related messages (SRM) from other vessels or

persons who are in distress.

SOTDMA Class B AIS broadcasts ship´s static data every 6 minutes. Ship dynamic data

will be transmitted per following reporting interval:

Ship Speed

Nominal Reporting Interval

Increased reporting interval

>23 knots

Every 5 seconds

Every 15 seconds

between 14-23 knots

Every 15 seconds

Every 30 seconds

between 2-14 knots

Every 30 seconds

≤ 2 knots or at anchored

or moored

Every 3 minutes

The Class B “SO” AIS follows the rules set by ITU-R M.1371-5, and increases the

reporting interval to “Increased Reporting Interval” in accordance with Table above

when less than 50 % of the slots of each of the last four consecutive frames are free.

When more than 65 % of the slots of each of the last four consecutive frames are free,

the Class B “SO” AIS reports at the “Nominal Reporting Interval”.

1.2 Class A vs. SOTDMA Class B vs. CSTDMA Class B

A brief comparison between class A and class B AIS is illustrated in the following table.

WideLink B600 is an SOTDMA class B AIS transponder.

Type of AIS

Class A AIS

Class B SOTDMA

Class B CSTDMA

Primary Access

Scheme

SOTDMA (Self-

organizing)

SOTDMA (Self-

organizing)

CSTDMA (Carrier-

Sense)

Standard

IEC 61993-2

IEC 62287-2

IEC 62287-1

Transmit Power

and range

12.5W

IMO Mandate

Mandatory for all

SOLAS vessels

No mandate

Reporting rate

dynamic data

Highest (transmission

up to every 2 sec)

Higher

(transmission up to

every 5 sec)

Low (transmission up

to every 30 sec)

AIS data

presented

Static, Dynamic,

Voyage

Static and Dynamic

data

Static and Dynamic

data

Applications

Commercial vessels,

fishing boats,

working boats,

passenger boats with

more than 12

passengers

Smaller commercial,

fishing and work

boats, recreational

vessels

Recreational vessels

and small fishing

boats

1.3 Equipment in the Box

Upon receiving the product please verify items in the box. If any is missing, please

contact your local AMEC representative immediately.

2 Installation

2.1 Installation Procedures

Please familiarize the manual content before installation. Depending on your hardware

configuration, use the following recommended steps to install the device.

1) Mount the device unit to an appropriate location

2) Install VHF antenna

3) Connect to VHF radio (B600S only)

4) Connect to FM radio (B600S only)

5) Install GPS antenna

6) Connect to a chart plotter and/or other instruments via NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000

or USB

7) Connect to a Tx switch box and/or external alarm system (optional)

8) Connect to an appropriate power source (12V / 24V DC, 2A)

Figure 1 External Connections

2.2 Mounting Device Main Unit

The following guidelines should be noticed when selecting the environment to install

your AMEC WideLink B600:

 Do not install the device in a flammable or hazardous atmosphere such as in an

engine or generator room or close to fuel tanks.

 Installation of the device should be undertaken in a safe environment without being

exposed to any splashing water or rain.

 There should be adequate space around the device for routing of cables. See figure

below for details of the device dimensions.

 The safe distance of the device to any magnetic compass is at least 0.3m.

 The operating temperature is between -15°C and +55°C.

 The device can be installed and mounted on a flat surface, or it can be mounted on

the wall with the four self-tapping screws supplied.

 The device should be mounted in a location where the indicators can readily be

observed as these indicators deliver relevant information on the status of the device.

 For safety reasons, it’s recommended to mount the device not higher than 2m

(78.74”) above floor-level.

Figure 2 Mounting the Device

2.3 VHF Antenna Installation

The quality and positioning of the antenna are the most important factors dictating AIS

performance. It is recommended that a VHF antenna with omnidirectional vertical

polarization be specifically tuned for marine band. Since the range of VHF signals is

largely decided by line of sight distance, the VHF antenna should be placed as high as

possible and at least 5 meters away from any constructions made of conductive

materials.

Figure 3 VHF Antenna Locations

The VHF antenna connector type on WideLink B600 is SO239 which is designed to work

with a PL259 connector.

Figure 4 VHF Antenna Connector

The recommended

horizontal distance

between antennas is 10m.

Other transmitting

antenna

VHF Antenna

10m

Other VHF Antenna

The recommended

vertical distance between

antennas is 2m.

2.4 Connecting to VHF Radio (B600S only)

Figure 5 VHF Antenna Connector

It is important for users to make sure that the VHF radio is always connected to the VHF

radio input port (left SO-239 connector) – and never connected to antenna input port.

When VHF radio is connected to antenna input port, the AIS receiver of WideLink B600S

might be severely damaged.

The internal path for VHF radio stays transparent also when WideLink B600S is switched

off or has power failure. WideLink B600S is designed to give priority to VHF radio in the

event of simultaneous transmission of VHF radio and AIS.

In case VHF radio is not connected to WideLink B600S, the VHF radio connector should

stay floating or be connected with a 50ohm dummy load.

2.4.1 FM radio connection (B600S only)

Use the Motorola jack of the attached FM radio cable to connect to radio´s female

receptacle. For best FM radio reception, make sure the VHF antenna is extended to the

highest achievable position.

Figure 6 FM Radio Connector

2.5 GPS Antenna Installation

Install the GPS antenna where it has a clear view to the sky, so that it may access the

horizon freely with 360° degrees.

Figure 7 GPS Antenna Locations

It is recommended to keep the GPS antenna out of the transmitting beam of high-

power transmitters such as Inmarsat devices and radar.

When connecting the cables, take note of the following precautions.

 Bending cables may cause damages to the inner wires and impair overall the

performances.

 Each coaxial cable should be set up separately and can only be set up in a

single cable tube.

 Insulation on connector port of the coaxial cable should be considered.

WideLink B600 is tested and certified with the GPS antenna GA-22. It’s recommended

to use GA-22 with B600 series to ensure optimal reliability of your AIS system.

Ensure a free 360˚

horizon with a vertical

observation of 5˚.

The recommended

horizontal distance between

GPS antennas and other

antennas is 3m.

5˚

2.6 Connecting with NMEA 0183 Devices

WideLink B600 supports two NMEA 0183 ports and external silent mode switch with its

12-pin data cable. The default NMEA 0183 baud rates are 38400-bps (high speed) and

4800-bps (low speed). The baud rates can be changed with the provided configuration

tool. Typically the high-speed setting is primarily for chart plotter connection, while the

low-speed setting can be used for NMEA 0183 compatible instruments.

WideLink B600 NMEA 0183 supports multiplexer function. Received NMEA 0183 data

from both ports will be multiplexed and forwarded to all output ports as well as USB

and Wi-Fi (B600W only).

Figure 8 NMEA 0183 Connection

Warning: During installation, you may have to peel off some wires to

make the appropriate connections. After completing the installation,

please cover all exposed wires with a rubber-vulcanized tape to prevent

the devices from malfunctioning or short-circuited.

2.7 AIS Silent Mode Connection

When Silent Mode is required, it is possible to connect an external toggle switch to

WideLink B600. Connect the toggle switch between the purple and brown wires to

enable Silent Mode function, as depicted in Figure below. An optional Tx Switch Box

(part number SB-181) is available from AMEC for Silent Mode activation.

Figure 9 Silent Switch Connection

2.8 Connection to NMEA 2000 Network

The WideLink B600 is equipped with NMEA 2000 interface with LEN=1. The device is

able to send AIS data and forward received GPS data (from NMEA 0183) via NMEA 2000

network to other NMEA 2000 devices. For further applications e.g. heading sensor

connection, please refer to supported PGN in 5.3. An updated PGN list is available at

AMEC website under Support/FAQ.

A compatible T-connector and drop cable/spur available by your local service partner

are needed to connect the device to your chart plotter with NMEA 2000 interface:

Figure 10 NMEA 2000 Network

B600 converts several practical NMEA 2000 PGN into NMEA 0183 sentences and

outputs them on NMEA 0183, USB and Wi-Fi (B600W only). Please refer to the

Supported NMEA 2000 PGN and Translation List in 5.3 or on AMEC website at

www.alltekmarine.com/support under B600.

The conversion function is off by default. To enable the function, users must check the

box in AMEC AIS Configuration Tool under the tab Configuration/Advanced

Configuration.

2.9 Connecting to a charting program via USB

Your transponder can be used as a source of AIS for electronic charting and navigation

program (PC/Mac) such as NaviPro, TimeZero, Coastal Explorer or OpenCPN etc. Follow

the steps below to connect the transponder to the software:

 Connect the transponder to your PC or Mac using the USB cable that comes with

the package. In most cases, the USB driver will be installed automatically. When

it’s not the case, you can find the driver from our website

www.alltekmarine.com/support/download and install it manually.

 Make sure the baud rate is set at 115200. The data port can be confirmed by

running the Device Manager on your computer or be detected automatically

depending on the software.

2.10 Connecting Power Cable

Connect the WideLink B600 to vessel´s power source as illustrated below.

The device requires a 12V or 24V DC power supply (9.6 to 31.2V) capable of supplying

2A peak current @12V DC. Always use a minimum 3A fuse panel before connecting

directly to battery or power supply. Power on the power source will turn on the device

unit automatically.

B600´s power cables are marked with bullet connectors.

Figure 11 Power and Alarm Connection

3 Configuring Your WideLink B600

Your WideLink B600 is delivered with a power “AIS Configuration Tool” allowing users to

set up the transponder and make a real-time diagnosis. A more detailed user guide of

configuration tool can be found in the “Help” of the software.

3.1 Connecting to your AIS Transponder

3.1.1 Required Items

Before preceding the configuration procedure, make sure the following items are

available:

 AIS Configuration Tool (PC/Mac) and USB driver which are available for download

from www.alltekmarine.com/support/download

 USB cable (included in the box)

 Mac OS X 10.6 and later or Microsoft® Windows® (including both 32 and 64-bit

versions)

 One available USB port on PC/Mac

Note: For configuration and firmware upgrade purpose, B600 series

can be powered only by USB. When USB power is in use, the device

will not transmit any data. To configure the Wi-Fi of B600W, a

regular 12/24V DC power supply is required.

3.1.2 Installing “AIS Configuration Tool”

The “AIS Configuration Tool” must be installed before connecting your transponder to

your PC or Mac.

The AIS Configuration Tool (PC/Mac) is available for download from

www.alltekmarine.com/support/download. Unzip the downloaded file and navigate to

the folder for

Windows: Double-click the ‘setup.exe’ item to start the installer and follow the on-

screen instructions.

Mac: Double-click the ‘AISConfigurationTool.dmg’ file. A new Finder window will

open and drag the “AIS Configuration Tool” to the Applications folder to complete

the installation process.

You can now launch the application from the Windows® Start menu or the Mac

Applications folder.

3.1.3 Three steps to connect the AIS transponder

Step 1:

Connect your Class B AIS transponder to your PC or Mac using a USB cable. In most

cases the USB driver will be installed automatically by Windows system. When USB

driver installation is not done automatically, you can find the driver from our website

www.alltekmarine.com/support/download and install it manually. Follow the on-screen

instructions and assign the correct file path of the USB driver to complete the

installation. You can also install the USB driver via the Device Manager in the Control

Panel.

Step 2:

Select the “Com Port” corresponding to your AIS transponder from the drop down menu

at the top left of the application window, the Com Port will normally be listed as “AIS

Virtual Com”.

Step 3:

Click the ‘Connect’ button. In a short moment, the button will be displayed as

“Disconnect” when the connection is established.

3.1.4 Home page of the application

The application is now communicating with your AIS transponder and will display any

pre-configured vessel data on the ‘Home’ page depicted as follows.

Wi-Fi setting is only available when Wi-Fi module on the AIS device is

detected.

3.2 Programming your vessel data

After the device is successfully connected with the Configuration Tool, click on the

“Configuration” tab. You will require the following information in order to configure the

device:

• Vessel´s name: limited to 20 characters

• Call sign: limited to 7 characters

• MMSI: Enter your MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) number

• Vessel type: choose your ship type from the drop down list

• Ship dimensions: Enter the vessel dimensions by appointing the position of your

GPS antenna

• Configure NMEA 0183 Baud Rate: Baud rate of NMEA 0183 # 1 and NMEA 0183 # 2

can be configured here to 38400, 9600 or 4800.

WARNING: The MMSI number can only be entered once. Be sure to

enter the correct MMSI number, as it cannot be corrected if entered

incorrectly.

Figure 12 Static Data Setting

4 GET STARTED

The device starts up whenever the connected power source is ON. It will operate

automatically when the device has been properly configured and GPS/VHF antennas are

properly installed. The device transmits its own ship positions depending on vessel´s

moving speed and should receive information of other vessels in the vicinity.

The operation status of the device can be observed with the LED lights on the unit.

Description of the LED indications is provided in the following section.

4.1 LED Indicators

Indicator

Light

Description

Power

Green, steady

The device has been powered up correctly.

By USB power, the Power LED does not light

showing that the device is in low power mode.

Tx / Silent

Green, flashing

The device is transmitting AIS data. The flashing

interval varies depending on vessel speed.

Green, steady

(B600S only)

The VHF radio is transmitting

Orange, steady

The device is in silent mode, no AIS transmission at

all.

Green, flashing

The device is receiving AIS data.

Green, flashing

SD card is being accessed.

Green, steady

SD card is inaccessible due to malfunction.

Wi-Fi (B600W)

Green, flashing

The green LED indicates an active Wi-Fi traffic

Error

Red, steady

MMSI is not properly programmed

Red, flashing

A BIIT system error is detected referring to chapter

4.4, or by USB power

Warning

(B600S)

Orange, steady

The orange LED illuminates when antenna VSWR is

over 3:1 by VHF transmission at 25W.

4.2 Micro SD Card

4.2.1 Data Logging

The WideLink B600 records voyage data onto a micro SD card in the .txt format. The

compatible micro SD card types are listed as follows:

 Standard “SD” with maximum 2GB size

 Standard “SDHC” with maximum 32GB size

 Supported data format: FAT12/16 by SD, FAT32 by SDHC

Insert the Micro SD card into the slot as shown below and data logging will start

immediately. When the device begins recording, the green SD LED indicator blinks.

When recorded data gets full, it overwrites new data as deleting from the oldest data.

Removing Micro SD card from the device stops data logging immediately, and the SD

LED will turn off.

The log files have a naming convention of AIS_XXXXXX.txt with increment from 000001

to 999999. Entry in the log file is vessel’s GPS sentence in IEC61162 format. The log file

can be read by chart plotting PC software like AMEC AIS Viewer or NaviPro ECS.

It’s recommended to format your SD card regularly, e.g. every 1~3 month for optimal

data integrity. Please save any data you wish to keep prior to formatting your memory

card.

Figure 13 Inserting SD Memory Card

4.2.2 Firmware Upgrade via Micro SD Card

Unzip the B600 SD_Firmware.zip upgrade package in the root folder of a Micro SD card

and make sure the both files APPS600.BIN & Firmware.csv are included.

Disconnect B600 from power supply and insert the Micro SD card into B600

Power on the B600 and the firmware upgrade will start automatically when the

transponder detects the presence of the required files. All the LED will stay ON during

the upgrade process which will be completed in 20 seconds.

Please notice that firmware upgrade will only take place when the Micro SD card is

inserted into the B600 while it is powered off.

4.3 Wi-Fi Configuration (WideLink B600W only)

WideLink B600W is featured with high-performance Wi-Fi module and built-in Wi-Fi

antenna. It can work in Access Point Mode or Client Mode. The information below

details the information required for connecting the WideLink B600W to mobile devices

using Wi-Fi.

4.3.1 Access Point Mode

WideLink B600W supports wireless connection with up to 32 mobile devices in AP

mode. After the configuration is done, press “Program Wi-Fi Module” to save the

settings to the device.

Figure 14 Access Point Mode

Figure 15 Connect to Mobile Devices

 SSID (Service Set Identifier):

The SSID for the WideLink B600W is AIS-WiFi. When another SSID is preferred,

just input it in the SSID field and then press “Program Wi-Fi Module”.

 Password:

By default the Wi-Fi network has no password. Users are allowed to create their

own key with an alpha-numeric password between 8 and 63 characters long. The

password can include symbols (!?*&_) and spaces.

 Channel:

The default setting is Auto Select to let the device select the best channel. When

needed, choose a channel that's free from other sources of interference.

 IP Address:

Default system IP is 192.168.2.1

User can create IP by inputting value in individual field.

 Port:

The default port is 3333. The available port range is between 3000-65535.

Note: By default, AMEC WideLink B600W uses WPA2-Personal wireless

security protocol.

4.3.2 Client Mode

WideLink B600W is able to join an existing Wi-Fi network. When clicking on „Client”, it

can take about 45 seconds until the device scans all available Wi-Fi networks.

Pick the network you want to join and enter the password and click on “Connect”.

Figure 16 Client Mode

Figure 17 Join an Existing Wi-Fi Network

4.4 Built-in Integrity Test (BIIT)

With BIIT (Built in Integrity Test) function, the WideLink B600 is constantly monitoring

and testing the integrity of the AIS device. Should an abnormal condition as listed

below be detected, the Error LED will alert:

 MMSI not set (Error LED steady on)

 Antenna VSWR exceeding the maximum allowed level (Error LED

flashing)Background noise level exceeds allowable threshold (-77dBm) (Error LED

flashing)

 GPS is unable to gain lock (3D fixed) after 30 minutes of losing GPS signal (Error LED

flashing)

 Unusual power input (9V or >36V DC) or by USB power (Error LED flashing)

5 SPECIFICATIONS

5.1 Product Specifications

APPLICABLE STANDARDS

ISO MSC. 74(69) Annex

IEC 60945 Ed. 4.0:2002

ITU-R M. 825-3:1998

IEC 61108-1 Ed. 2.0:2003

ITU-R M. 1084-5:2012

IEC 61162-1 Ed. 5.0:2016

ITU-R M. 1371-5:2014

IEC 61162-2 Ed. 1.0:1998

EN 300 440 V2.1.1

IEC 62287-2 Ed. 2.0:2017

EN 303 413 V1.1.1 (B600S)

EN 300 328 V2.1.1 (B600W)

EN 301 489-1 V2.2.0 / EN 301 489-3

V2.1.1

EN 62311:2008

EN 301 489-1 V2.2.0 / EN 301 489-17 V3.2.0 (B600W)

EN 62368-1:2014 + A11:2017

VHF TRANSPONDER

Frequency Range

156.025 MHz ~ 162.025 MHz

Access Scheme

SOTDMA

Channel Bandwidth

25 KHz

Modulation

GMSK / FM

Data Rate

9,600 bps

Number of AIS Transmitter

Number of AIS Receiver

2 (one time-shared between AIS and DSC)

Number of DSC Receiver

1 (time-shared between AIS and DSC)

AIS Channel 1

CH 87B (161.975 MHz)

AIS Channel 2

CH 88B (162.025 MHz)

Tx Power Output

5 Watt (37 dBm ± 1.5 dB)

1 Watt (30 dBm ± 1.5 dB)

Rx Sensitivity

< -107 dBm @ 20% PER

Rx Message Format

AIS Class A & B messages

DSC RECEIVER

Modulation

1,300 Hz / 2,100 Hz FSK

Data Rate

1,200 bps ± 30 ppm

Spurious Response Rejection

≧ 70 dB for signal @ -104 dBm; BER ≦ 1 %

Blocking

≧ 84 dB for signal @ -104 dBm; BER ≦ 1 %

GNSS RECEIVER (INTEGRATED)

Receiving Channels

72 channels

Accuracy

IEC 61108-1 compliant

GNSS support: GPS & GLONASS (factory default)

POWER SUPPLY

Supply Voltage

12V / 24V DC, 2A

Power Consumption

Typically less than 3W average @ 12V DC

CONNECTION INTERFACE

GPS Antenna Connector

TNC (Female)

VHF Antenna Connector

SO-239 (Female)

VHF Radio Connector (B600S only)

SO-239 (Female)

FM Radio (B600S only)

SMA (Female) & dedicated cable with Motorola

jack

NMEA 2000

Standard connector

NMEA 0183 (RS-422)

Support two NMEA 0183 interfaces

Default baud rate 38,400 & 4,800bps

Configurable and separate Tx/Rx baud rate

Standard IEC 61162-1 / IEC 61162-2 sentences

Silent Mode Setting

Set by dedicated pins in the 12-pin cable

Internal Alarm Relay Setting

Set by dedicated pins in the 8-pin cable

USB

Mini-B type, waterproof

RF PERFORMANCE (B600S SPLITTER)

Insertion loss, VHF Radio Receive path

Typical 0dB

Insertion loss, VHF Radio Transmit path

Typical 1dB

ENVIRONMENTAL

Operating Conditions

IEC 60945 “protected” category

Operating Temperature

-15°C ~ +55°C (+5°F ~ +130°F)

Waterproof

IP67

PHYSICAL

Width

177 mm (6.97 inches)

Height

60 mm (2.36 inches)

Depth

132 mm (5.20 inches) (exclude connector)

Weight

510 g

AMEC AIS CLASS B CONFIGURATION (PC/Mac)

AMEC AIS Configuration Tool

www.alltekmarine.com/support/download

COMPASS SAFETY DISTANCE

Standard Magnetic Compass

0.30m

Steering Magnetic Compass

0.30m

GA-22 GPS ANTENNA (OPTIONAL)

Cable

Integral 10m RG-174 cable plus mounting

bracket

Supply Voltage

3.3V

Wi-Fi POWER (B600W ONLY)

Tx Transmit Power

19.53 dBm (EIRP)

Frequency Range

2412 MHz ~ 2462 MHz

5.2 Dimensions

(GPS antenna is an optional item)

(PA-02 GPS antenna is an optional item)

5.3 Supported NMEA 2000 PGN and Translation List

PGN

Description

NMEA0183

TX output

NMEA0183

TX input

59392

ISO Acknowledgment

59904

ISO Request

60928

ISO Address Claim

126464

PGN List - PGNs group function

126993

Heartbeat

126996

Product Information

126998

Configuration Information

127250

Vessel Heading

HDG

HDT, HDG

127258

Magnetic Variation

HDG

128259

Speed, Water Referenced

VHW

128267

Water Depth

DPT

128275

Distance Log

VLW

129025

Position, Rapid Update

129026

COG &SOG, Rapid Update

129029

GNSS Position Data

129038

AIS Class A Position Report

129039

AIS Class B Position Report

129040

AIS Class B Extended Position Report

129041

AIS Aids to Navigation (AtoN) Report

129283

Cross Track Error

XTE

APB, RMB,

XTE

129284

Navigation Data

APB, BOD,

RMB

APB, BOD,

BWW, RMB

129285

Navigation - Route/WP information

WPL

RMB

129539

GNSS DOPs

129540

GNSS Sats in View

129792

AIS DGNSS Broadcast Binary Message

129793

AIS UTC and Date Report

129794

AIS Class A Static and Voyage Related

Data

129795

AIS Addressed Binary Message

129796

AIS Acknowledge

129797

AIS Binary Broadcast Message

129798

AIS SAR Aircraft Position Report

129800

AIS UTC/Date Inquiry

129801

AIS Addressed Safety Related

Message

129802

AIS Saftety Related Broadcast

Message

129803

AIS Interrogation

129804

AIS Assignment Mode Command

129805

AIS Data Link Management Message

129806

AIS Channel Management

129807

AIS Group Assignment

129809

AIS Class B "CS" Static Data Report,

Part A

129810

AIS Class B "CS" Static Data Report,

Part B

129811

AIS Single Slot Binary Message

129812

AIS Multi Slot Biknary Message

129813

AIS Long-Range Broadcast Message

130306

Wind Data

MWD, MWV

130310

Environmental Parameters

MTW

130311

Environmental Parameters

MTW

130312

Temperature

MTW

130314

Actual Pressure

XDR, MDA

130316

Temperature, Extended Range

MTW

5.4 Supported NMEA 0183 Sentences

Output Sentences

Sentence

Description

ABK

AIS addressed and binary broadcast acknowledgement

ACA

AIS channel assignment message

ALR

Set alarm state

GGA

Global positioning system (GPS) fix data

GSA

GNSS DOP and active satellites

GSV

GNSS satellites in view

RMC

Recommended minimum specific GNSS data

TXT

Text transmission

VDM

AIS VHF data-link message

VDO

AIS VHF data-link own-vessel report

Input Sentences

Sentence

Description

ABM

AIS addressed binary and safety related message

ACK

Acknowledge alarm

AIQ

Query Sentence

BBM

AIS broadcast binary message

EPV

Command or report equipment property value

HDT

Heading true

SSD

AIS ship static data

THS

True heading and status

VSD

AIS voyage static data

6 TROUBLESHOOTING

The transmitting LED (Green color) is not illuminated, why?

 The Class B device requires GPS information from GPS antenna before making AIS

transmission. Please check if your GPS antenna is connected correctly. The Tx LED

will flash orange every 5 seconds meaning that the device is still acquiring a GPS fix

and therefore not ready yet to make transmission.

 For each transmission, the Tx LED indicator will flash once quickly. The green light

from the Tx LED could be missed if not observed carefully.

WideLink B600 receives AIS signals normally, but no one in the surrounding can see

me, why?

 VHF antennas interference: if you are using a dedicated AIS/VHF antenna for your

transponder, be sure that it is placed following the instructions in chapter 2.3. In

several tests, mounting two VHF antennas next to another typically reduces the

transmitting range to both antennas by 50-70%.

 GPS is not fixed: If your GPS antenna is not connected or setup correctly, your

transponder will see other vessels fine, but you will not be sending out your vessel

position. The Tx LED will flash orange every 5 seconds meaning that the

transponder is still acquiring a GPS fix and therefore not ready yet to make

transmission.

 The location of VHF antenna is directly related to AIS transmitting range. The VHF

antenna should be installed at mast as high as possible.

No data is being received by chart plotter, why?

 Please check that the power supply is connected correctly at WideLink B600.

 Please check that the power supply is 12V or 24V with sufficient current capacity

(no less than 2A).

 Please make sure that the connections between WideLink B600 to the chart

plotter are correct.

My MMSI is being received by other vessels but my vessel name is not shown on their

chart plotter or PC, why?

 Older software and AIS displays may not be fully compatible with Class B

transponders. In some of these cases, older equipment might only have Class B

vessel show up on their displays with just MMSI number without the vessel name.

This is usually due to the receiving device not knowing how to process the

Message 24 static data from Class B transponders. Please contact the chart plotter

maker and ask for software upgrades (for these older chart plotters) to resolve this

issue.

The Red Error LED indication at WideLink B600 is illuminated, why?

 The unit may not have a valid MMSI. Please check if the AIS transponder is

correctly entered with a valid MMSI.

 Please make sure that both VHF and GPS antennas and their cables are working

properly and not damaged.

 Return the unit to your dealer/service partner for technical check.

Why is the Wi-Fi signal weak and how can I improve it?

 The router is too far from the client devices. To improve the Wi-Fi signal strength

reallocated the device to a more central location.

 There might be intervening barriers (e.g. a large expanse of metal) that are

blocking the Wi-Fi signals. Relocated the device to the center of the area where

the client devices are placed, or to a position where the router and the devices ae

are within a visible distance without interfering barrier.

 Nearby devices (e.g. microwaves/wireless phones) using the same frequency band

may interfere with the router’s 2.4GHz Wi-Fi transmission. To improve the Wi-Fi

signal strength, try to avoid channel overlapping by reassigning their operation

channels to channels 1, 6 or 11.

If you still encounter difficulties to set up or operate WideLink B600 correctly, please

email to service@alltekmarine.com for further instructions.

7 ABBREVIATIONS

AIS

Automatic Identification System

COG

Course Over Ground

CPA

Distance to Closest Point of Approach

CSTDMA

SOTDMA

Carrier-Sense Time Division Multiple Access

Self-Organized Time Division Multiple Access

DSC

Digital Selective Calling

ECS

Electronic Chart System

ETA

Estimated Time of Arrival

GPS

Global Positioning System

IMO

International Maritime Organization

MMSI

Maritime Mobile Service Identity

SOG

Speed Over Ground

TCPA

Time to Closest Point of Approach

TDMA

Time Division Multiple Access

UTC

Coordinated Universal Time

VHF

Very High Frequency

VTS

Vessel Traffic Services

8 FCC INTERFERENCE STATEMENT

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A

digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide

reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in

a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio

frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction

manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this

equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the

user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following

two conditions:

1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and

2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may

cause undesired operation.

Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by AMEC for compliance could

void of the user's authority to operate the equipment.

9 RF Exposure Warning

WARNING: This device generates and radiates RF electromagnetic energy and must be

installed and operated according to the instructions contained in this manual. Failure to

do so may result in product malfunction and/or exposure to potentially harmful levels

of radio frequency radiation.

WARNING: Never operate this device unless it is properly connected to a VHF antenna.

To maximize performance and minimize human exposure to RF energy, always mount

the antenna at least 3m from the device.

The system has a Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) radius of 1.2m from the

antenna, and 20cm from Wi-Fi antenna (B600W only). This has been determined

assuming the maximum power of the transmitter and using a standard half-wave

monopole VHF antenna with a maximum gain of 3dBi and termination impedance of 50

ohms.

When installing the antenna and operating the equipment consider the following:

 The antenna should be mounted at a minimum vertical distance of 5m above the

deck in order to meet international safety directives on Maximum Permissible

Exposure (MPE). Failure to adhere to these limits could expose persons within

the radius to RF radiation in excess of the recommended MPE limits.

 Higher gain VHF antennas will require a larger MPE radius.

 Do not operate the unit when anyone is within the MPE radius of the antenna.

 The antenna should not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other

transmitting antenna.

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

Hereby, Alltek Marine Electronics Corp. (AMEC) declares that this WideLink

B600/B600W is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant

provisions of Directive 2014/53/EU RED.

A copy of the Declaration of Conformity can be obtained on-line from under “Download”:

http://www.alltekmarine.com/products_detail.php?bgid=3&gid=53

INDUSTRY CANADA NOTICE

This AIS class B digital device complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet dispositif numérique de la AIS classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du

Canada.

AMEC WORLDWIDE WARRANTY

Limited warranty

Subject to the terms, conditions and limitations set forth in this Worldwide Limited

Warranty (hereinafter the “Warranty”), AMEC warrants that its products, when properly

installed and used, will be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of

twelve (12) months, from the date of first purchase (the ‘Warranty Period’)

For the purposes of this warranty, ‘date of first purchase’ means the date that the product

was purchased by the first retail customer, or by the institutional customer, or in the case

of a product installed on a new vessel or any other marine related platform by a certified

AMEC original equipment manufacturer (a ‘AMEC OEM’), the date that such vessel was

purchased by the first retail customer.

AMEC will, at its sole option, repair or replace any defective products or components

returned during the Warranty Period in accordance with the terms, conditions and

limitations set forth below. Such repairs or replacement will be the sole remedy of the

customer under this Warranty.

Standard Warranty Service

To qualify for standard warranty service the product must be returned to a AMEC-

certified service agent (i) within the Warranty Period, and (ii) within thirty (30) days of

the alleged product failure. Any products returned must be securely packaged and sent

pre-paid and insured to AMEC or to a AMEC-certified service agent. All products returned

must be accompanied by a copy of the original sales receipt to be eligible for standard

warranty service.

Other conditions

This Warranty is fully transferable provided that you furnish the original proof of purchase

to the AMEC -certified service agent. This Warranty is void if the seal label is removed or

defaced.

THE LIABILITY OF AMEC TO A CUSTOMER UNDER THIS WARRANTY, WHETHER FOR

BREACH OF CONTRACT, TORT, BREACH OF STATUTORY DUTY OR OTHERWISE SHALL IN NO

EVENT EXCEED AN AMOUNT EQUAL TO THE TOTAL PURCHAE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT

GIVING RISE TO SUCH LIABILITY AND IN NO EVENT SHALL AMEC BE LIABLE FOR SPECIAL,

INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR INDIRECT DAMAGES OR LOST OF GOODWILL,

REPUTATION, LOSS OF OPPORTUNITY OR INFORMATION, DATA, SOFTWARE OR

APPLICATIONS.

In the event that any term or provision contained in this Warranty is found to be invalid,

illegal or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, then such provision shall be

deemed modified to the extent necessary to make such provision enforceable by such

court, taking into account the intent of the parties. All AMEC products sold or provided

hereunder are merely aids to navigation. It is the responsibility of the user to exercise

discretion and proper navigational skill independent of any AMEC product.

Appendix: How to Determine Serial Port

If you PC/laptop does not have available serial port, you may use a RS232-to-USB

adapter. To find out the proper serial port for connection use the following instructions.

Windows 10 & Windows 11

Windows button + S and type Device Manager in the search box, then select Device

Manager from the list of results. Expand the Ports (COM & LPT) and port number are

presented with numerical number within a parenthesis in the following format

(COMXX).

Serial port

number

Alltek Marine Electronics Corporation

14F-2, No. 237, Sec. 1, Datong Rd.,

Xizhi Dist., New Taipei City, 22161, Taiwan

Tel: +886 2 8691 8568

Fax: +886 2 8691 9569

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.alltekmarine.com