AIS receivers receive the AIS VHF radio signals sent by commercial vessels (Class A) and pleasure boaters (Class B). These signals are converted into an NMEA protocol, which can be interpreted from a chart plotter or PC software. The interpreted data can be displayed on the screen used.
Class B transceivers will also send their own ship’s data via AIS to all other vessels within range.

Between AIS devices, this data is automatically exchanged at short intervals with special VHF transmitters and receivers. The FM transmitter unit transmits the data on one of two internationally designated AIS frequencies. One of the outstanding features of the AIS technology compared to other radio services is the automatic organization of the interplay of several AIS devices on a radio frequency without mutual interference.

The AIS S.A.R.T. „easyRESCUE“ are certified rescue devices. Once activated they transmit the current GPS position of the victim in distress directly to all AIS receivers within range. The “easyRESCUE” devices are all certified by the German BSH, the United States FCC, United States Coast Guard and they are SOLAS ready.

Via AIS emergency message all vessels with AIS receiver aboard in the vicinity of up to 15 nm and more around the victim, including the mother ship, are informed about the distress situation. Updated every minute, this alert message contains current GPS position as well as COG (course over ground) and SOG (speed over ground) of the victim in a drift. These information enable every crew to assist with the rescue.

Via DSC distress call up to 8 different vessels get a first alerting call within seconds after the AIS MOB easyRESCUE-PRO3 was activated in closed loop. The MMSI numbers can be pre-programmed into the beacon. After the GPS fix is given, a second DSC distress call is send out in “closed loop”, containing GPS position of the victim. For the next 10 minutes the “closed loop” crews are able to acknowledge the incoming distress call. If the easyRESCUE-PRO3 receives no acknowledgement, the unit switches automatically into “open loop”, transmitting an “all ships call” to everybody into the GMDSS emergency network. This “all ships call” can be relayed by commercial vessels to forward the distress call to a coastal MRCC (maritime rescue coordination center) which are the sole stations to acknowledge the „open loop“.

Via 121.5MHz a so called “homing signal” is transmitted. With the respective receiving and bearing equipment the right direction to the victim can be found out of 3 nm distance. In situation when there is “no sight” to the victim this technology comes up with a high benefit. The closer the vessel is to the victim, the more precisely the life-saving bearing can be done.

• Only for good swimmers
  
• Use only in sheltered waters where quick help and rescue is guaranteed
  
• Provides only limited protection against drowning
  
• Unsuitable for troubled waters
  
• No lifejacket

• For swimmers
  
• Use only in sheltered waters
  
• Intended for people who have to wait in sheltered waters for rescue
  
• Into the safe position in 10 seconds; safe even if unconscious
  

• For swimmers and non-swimmers
  
• Intended for general use
  
• An unconscious person is turned into safe floating position
  
• Safe even if unconscious
  

• For swimmers and non-swimmers
  
• Primary use on the high seas and in severe conditions
  
• Additional lift for additional weight or for protective clothing with integrated buoyancy
  
• Safe even if unconscious
  

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