IEC 62320-1:2015

Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems - Automatic identification system (AIS) - Part 1: AIS Base Stations - Minimum operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results

IEC 62320-1:2015 specifies the minimum operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results for AIS Base Stations, compatible with the performance standards adopted by IMO Resolution MSC.74 (69), Annex 3, Universal AIS. It incorporates the technical characteristics of non-shipborne, fixed station AIS equipment, included in recommendation ITU-R M.1371 and IALA Recommendation A-124. Where applicable, it also takes into account the ITU Radio Regulations. This standard takes into account other associated IEC international standards and existing national standards, as applicable. This standard is applicable for AIS Base Stations. It does not include specifications for the display of AIS data on shore. This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2007 and its Amendment 1:2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision. This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous edition:
- incorporation of the technical characteristics included in Recommendation ITU R M.1371 5;
- the BCE, BCF and CAB sentences replaced with BCG, BCL and RST;
- comment blocks replaced with TAG blocks;
- scheduled broadcast of Message 26 added;
- Message 27 control added;
- transmitter intermodulation attenuation harmonised with ITU;
- 12,5 kHz channel operation removed;
- transmission of Message 24A, Message 25 and Message 26 added;
- 90 % channel load test with VSI and TAG blocks enabled added.

Matériels et systèmes de navigation et de radiocommunication maritimes - Systèmes d'identification automatique (AIS) - Partie 1: Stations de base AIS - Exigences opérationnelles et de fonctionnement minimales, méthodes d'essai et résultats d'essai exigés

L'IEC 62320-1:2015 spécifie les exigences opérationnelles et de fonctionnement minimales, les méthodes d'essai et les résultats d'essai exigés applicables aux stations de base AIS compatibles avec les normes de fonctionnement adoptées par la Résolution MSC.74(69) de l'OMI (Annexe 3, AIS universel). Elle intègre les caractéristiques techniques des systèmes AIS de station fixe non embarquée, incluses dans la Recommandation UIT-R M.1371 et la Recommandation IALA A-124. Le cas échéant, elle tient compte également des réglementations de radiodiffusion de l'UIT. La présente norme s'appuie sur d'autres Normes internationales de l'IEC associées et sur des normes nationales existantes, selon le cas.
La présente norme s'applique aux stations de base AIS. Elle n'inclut pas les spécifications pour l'affichage des données AIS à terre.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 19-Jan-2015
• ICS: 47.020.70 - Navigation and control equipment
• Technical Committee: TC 80 - Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems
• Drafting Committee: WG 15 - TC 80/WG 15
• Current Stage: PPUB - Publication issued
• Start Date: 20-Jan-2015
• Completion Date: 31-Mar-2015

Relations

• Revises: IEC 62320-1:2007 - Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems - Automatic identification system (AIS) - Part 1: AIS Base Stations - Minimum operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023
• Revises: IEC 62320-1:2007/AMD1:2008 - Amendment 1 - Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems - Automatic identification system (AIS) - Part 1: AIS Base Stations - Minimum operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
• Effective Date: 05-Sep-2023

Overview

IEC 62320-1:2015 - "Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems - Automatic identification system (AIS) - Part 1: AIS Base Stations" defines the minimum operational and performance requirements, test methods and required test results for AIS Base Stations. Aligned with IMO Resolution MSC.74(69) Annex 3 (Universal AIS), ITU‑R M.1371 and IALA Recommendation A‑124, this 2015 edition updates the 2007 version to incorporate recent technical characteristics for non‑shipborne, fixed AIS equipment and harmonise radio performance with ITU regulations. Note: the standard applies to AIS Base Stations only and does not specify shore display requirements.

Key Topics and Technical Requirements

• Scope and functional architecture: functional layout, VDL (VHF Data Link) sources, access schemes, and presentation interface definitions for AIS Base Stations.
• Radio interface and TDMA: required physical‑layer parameters and TDMA transmitter/receiver minimums (frequency error, carrier power, modulation spectrum, sensitivity, adjacent/co‑channel performance).
• Testing methods and required results: detailed procedures for physical radio tests, conducted spurious emissions, intermodulation attenuation, blocking/desensitisation and measurement uncertainty.
• Functional tests: pre‑setup, normal operation, addressed/broadcast messaging, interrogations, slot phase and frame synchronisation, position source and alarm message handling.
• Message and protocol updates: incorporation of ITU‑R M.1371‑5 message sets; transmission of Message 24A, 25 and 26 added; scheduled broadcast of Message 26 and Message 27 control introduced.
• Data encapsulation and metadata: replacement of BCE/BCF/CAB sentences with BCG/BCL/RST, comment blocks replaced with TAG blocks, and TAG block encapsulation tests (source/destination identification, grouping, UNIX time, line count).
• Channel/load tests: includes a 90% channel load test with VSI and TAG blocks enabled.
• Operational constraints: removal of 12.5 kHz channel operation and harmonised transmitter intermodulation attenuation with ITU limits.

Practical Applications and Who Uses This Standard

• Manufacturers of fixed AIS Base Station equipment use IEC 62320-1 to design and validate radio performance, TDMA behaviour and interface commands.
• Test laboratories and certification bodies apply the standard’s test methods to verify compliance and produce required test results.
• Maritime authorities and harbour/port operators reference the standard when procuring, installing or integrating shore‑based AIS infrastructure to ensure interoperability with shipborne AIS and compliance with IMO/ITU requirements.
• System integrators and solution providers use the functional and presentation interface definitions when connecting AIS Base Stations to VTS, traffic management or coastal monitoring systems.

Related Standards and References

• IMO Resolution MSC.74(69) Annex 3 (Universal AIS)
• ITU‑R M.1371 (latest edition incorporated)
• IALA Recommendation A‑124
• Relevant ITU Radio Regulations and associated IEC international and national standards

Keywords: IEC 62320-1, AIS Base Stations, Automatic Identification System, AIS testing, IMO, ITU‑R M.1371, IALA A‑124, TDMA, VHF Data Link, TAG blocks, AIS performance requirements.

Standards Content (Sample)

IEC 62320-1 ®
Edition 2.0 2015-01
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – Automatic
identification system (AIS) –
Part 1: AIS Base Stations – Minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

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IEC 62320-1 ®
Edition 2.0 2015-01
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – Automatic

identification system (AIS) –
Part 1: AIS Base Stations – Minimum operational and performance requirements,

methods of testing and required test results

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
ICS 47.020.70 ISBN 978-2-8322-2205-8

– 2 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 7
INTRODUCTION . 9
1 Scope . 10
2 Normative references . 10
3 Abbreviations . 11
4 Functional layout of an AIS Base Station . 12
4.1 General . 12
4.2 Functional block diagram of an AIS Base Station . 12
4.3 General VDL requirements . 13
4.3.1 Sources of VDL messages for transmission . 13
4.3.2 Use of access schemes . 14
4.4 Functional diagram for operation of a Base Station . 14
4.5 Base Station input/output sentence formatters . 15
5 Functional definition of the radio interface of the AIS Base Station . 17
5.1 General requirements of the physical layer . 17
5.2 Required parameter settings for the physical layer of the AIS Base Station . 18
5.3 Minimum requirements for the TDMA transmitter of the AIS Base Station . 19
5.4 Minimum requirements for the TDMA receivers of the AIS Base Station . 21
5.5 Shutdown procedure for an AIS Base Station . 21
6 Requirements for AIS Base Station . 21
6.1 General . 21
6.2 Dependent Base Station requirements . 22
6.2.1 General rules . 22
6.2.2 General processing diagram . 22
6.2.3 AIS Base Station response to PI input . 23
6.2.4 AIS Base Station response to VDL input . 23
6.3 Independent Base Station requirements . 23
6.3.1 General rules . 23
6.3.2 General processing diagram . 24
6.3.3 AIS Base Station response to PI input . 24
6.3.4 AIS Base Station interaction on the VDL . 25
6.3.5 Autonomous channel management . 29
6.4 BIIT conditions . 30
6.5 Default settings after reset . 30
6.6 Further requirements for optional features . 31
6.6.1 General . 31
6.6.2 External synchronisation source option . 31
6.6.3 DGNSS dedicated port option . 32
7 Functional definition of the presentation interface of the AIS Base Station . 32
7.1 Physical requirements for the presentation interface . 32
7.2 Presentation interface data exchange . 32
7.2.1 General . 32
7.2.2 Base Station presentation interface output . 32
7.2.3 Base Station presentation interface input . 32
7.2.4 TAG blocks on presentation interface . 32

8 Tests of AIS Base Stations – Method of measurement and required results . 33
8.1 General . 33
8.2 Test conditions . 33
8.2.1 Normal test conditions . 33
8.2.2 Extreme test conditions . 33
8.2.3 Standard test environment . 33
8.2.4 Test signals . 34
8.2.5 Arrangements for test signals applied to the receiver input . 35
8.2.6 Encoder for receiver measurements . 35
8.2.7 Waiver for receivers . 35
8.2.8 Impedance . 35
8.2.9 Artificial antenna (dummy load) . 35
8.2.10 Facilities for access . 35
8.2.11 Operation of the transmitter . 35
8.2.12 Measurement uncertainties . 36
9 Physical radio tests . 36
9.1 Remark . 36
9.2 General transceiver tests . 36
9.2.1 Transceiver protection test . 36
9.2.2 Transmitter shutdown procedure . 37
9.3 TDMA transmitter . 37
9.3.1 General . 37
9.3.2 Frequency error . 37
9.3.3 Carrier power . 38
9.3.4 Modulation spectrum slotted transmission . 38
9.3.5 Transmitter test sequence and modulation accuracy verification . 39
9.3.6 Transmitter output power versus time function . 40
9.3.7 Intermodulation attenuation . 40
9.4 TDMA receivers . 42
9.4.1 Sensitivity . 42
9.4.2 Error behaviour at high input levels. 42
9.4.3 Co-channel rejection . 43
9.4.4 Adjacent channel selectivity . 44
9.4.5 Spurious response rejection . 44
9.4.6 Intermodulation response rejection . 47
9.4.7 Blocking or desensitisation . 48
9.5 Conducted spurious emissions at the antenna . 49
9.5.1 Spurious emissions from the receiver . 49
9.5.2 Spurious emissions from the transmitter . 49
10 Functional tests for Base Station . 49
10.1 Pre-set-up . 49
10.1.1 Basic initialisation . 49
10.1.2 Pre-setup of dependent base station . 50
10.1.3 Pre-setup for independent mode . 50
10.2 Normal operation . 51
10.2.1 Base Station configuration and services . 51
10.2.2 Addressed and broadcast messaging . 66
10.2.3 Interrogations and interrogation response . 69
10.2.4 Addressed operation . 70

– 4 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
10.2.5 Slot phase and frame synchronisation – Base Station operation . 71
10.2.6 Position source . 75
10.2.7 Alarm messages . 76
10.3 Selection of transmission slots . 77
10.3.1 RATDMA Transmission . 77
10.3.2 Intentional slot reuse (link congestion) . 77
10.4 Legacy support . 78
10.4.1 Purpose . 78
10.4.2 Method of measurement . 78
10.4.3 Required results . 79
10.5 TAG Block encapsulation . 79
10.5.1 Application . 79
10.5.2 TAG Block capabilities . 80
10.5.3 Activation of Source identification for output . 80
10.5.4 Activation of Destination identification . 81
10.5.5 Activation of Source identification for input . 82
10.5.6 Use of multiple Source identifications for input . 82
10.5.7 Test of grouping by TAG blocks for output . 83
10.5.8 Test of UNIX time output . 85
10.5.9 Test of Line-count output . 85
10.6 Test of optional functions . 86
10.6.1 Test of external synchronization source . 86
10.6.2 Test of Message 17 based on RTCM 10402 input . 87
Annex A (normative) AIS Base Station sentences . 88
A.1 General . 88
A.2 ACM – AIS Base Station addressed channel management command . 88
A.3 ADS – Automatic device status . 89
A.4 AGA – AIS Base Station broadcast of a group assignment command . 90
A.5 ASN – AIS Base Station broadcast of assignment command . 92
A.6 BCG – Base Station configuration, general command . 93
A.7 BCL – Base Station configuration, location command . 94
A.8 DLM – Data link management slot allocations for Base Station command . 95
A.9 ECB – Configure broadcast schedules for Base Station messages, command. 97
A.10 FSR – Frame summary of AIS reception . 98
A.11 RST – Equipment Reset Command . 99
A.12 SID – Set an equipment’s identification and command . 100
A.13 SPO – Select AIS device’s processing and output command . 101
A.14 TFR – Transmit feed-back report . 102
A.15 TPC – Transmit slot prohibit command . 103
A.16 TSA – Transmit slot assignment . 104
A.17 TSR – Transmit slot prohibit status report . 105
A.18 VSI – VDL signal information . 106
Annex B (normative) Legacy AIS Base Station sentences . 107
B.1 Legacy sentences . 107
B.1.1 BCE – Extended general Base Station configuration . 107
B.1.2 BCF – General Base Station configuration . 107
B.1.3 CAB – Control AIS Base Station . 109
B.1.4 TSP – Transmit slot prohibit. 109
B.2 Comment block . 110

B.3 Comment block parameters for AIS . 111
B.3.1 General . 111
B.3.2 Comment block parameter format . 111
B.3.3 Comment block “hexadecimal checksum” (*hh) . 111
B.3.4 Line (either a comment block, or comment block and sentence) . 111
B.3.5 Group (associated lines) . 112
B.3.6 Parameter-code dictionary . 112
B.3.7 Line linking (sentence linking) . 112
B.3.8 Comment block used with query sentences. 113
Annex C (normative) IEC 61162-1 sentences modified for use with AIS Base Station . 115
C.1 General . 115
C.2 CBR – Configure broadcast rates for AIS AtoN Station message command . 115
C.3 MEB – Message Input for broadcast command . 116
C.4 NAK – Negative acknowledgement. 118
Annex D (normative) AIS Base Station TAG block sentences . 120
D.1 General . 120
D.2 CPC – Configure parameter-code for UNIX time parameter (c) . 120
D.3 CPD – Configure parameter-code for Destination identification parameter
(d) . 121
D.4 CPG – Configure parameter-code for the sentence-grouping parameter (g) . 121
D.5 CPN – Configure parameter-code for the line-count parameter (n) . 123
D.6 CPS – Configure parameter-code for the Source identification parameter(s) . 125
D.7 TBR – TAG block report request . 125
D.8 TBS – TAG block listener Source identification configuration command . 126
Bibliography . 128

Figure 1 – Functional block diagram of an AIS Base Station . 13
Figure 2 – Functional block diagram dependent and independent operation . 15
Figure 3 – Modulation spectrum for slotted transmission . 20
Figure 4 – Power versus time mask . 20
Figure 5 – General processing diagram. 23
Figure 6 – General processing diagram. 24
Figure 7 – Flow diagram for AIS Base Station response to VDM input . 28
Figure 8 – Format for repeating four-packet cluster . 34
Figure 9 – Measurement arrangement for frequency error . 37
Figure 10 – Measurement arrangement for carrier power . 38
Figure 11 – Measurement arrangement for modulation accuracy . 39
Figure 12 – Measurement arrangement for intermodulation attenuation . 41
Figure 13 – Measurement arrangement for sensitivity . 42
Figure 14 – Measurement arrangement for error behaviour . 42
Figure 15 – Measurement arrangement for co-channel rejection . 43
Figure 16 – Measurement arrangement for adjacent channel selectivity . 44
Figure 17 – PER/BER or SINAD measuring equipment . 45
Figure 18 – Measurement arrangement for inter-modulation . 47
Figure 19 – Measurement arrangement for blocking or de-sensitisation . 48
Figure A.1 – Frame summary timing . 98

– 6 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015

Table 1 – Base Station input/output sentence formatters . 16
Table 2 – Required parameter settings for an AIS Base Station . 18
Table 3 – Required settings of physical layer constants . 18
Table 4 – Bandwidth related parameters of the physical layer of the AIS Base Station . 18
Table 5 – Minimum required TDMA transmitter characteristics . 19
Table 6 – Definition of timings for Figure 4 . 20
Table 7 – Minimum TDMA receiver characteristics . 21
Table 8 – Base Station response to input messages from the VDL . 23
Table 9 – Base Station response to input messages from the VDL . 25
Table 10 – Required content of FSR and VSI output . 26
Table 11 – Base Station response to ABM, BBM and AIR input on the PI . 27
Table 12 – BIIT alarm conditions monitored by an AIS Base Station . 30
Table 13 – Settings after reset command . 30
Table 14 – Required TAG block functions . 32
Table 15 – Content of first two packets . 34
Table 16 – Fixed PRS data derived from ITU-T O.153. 35
Table 17 – Maximum values of absolute measurement uncertainties . 36
Table 18 – Frequencies for inter-modulation tests . 48
Table 19 – Calculation of parameters in Message 16 . 63

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AIS) –

Part 1: AIS Base Stations –
Minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

FOREWORD
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International Standard IEC 62320-1 has been prepared by IEC technical Committee 80:
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2007 and its
Amendment 1:2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
• incorporation of the technical characteristics included in Recommendation
ITU-R M.1371-5;
• the BCE, BCF and CAB sentences replaced with BCG, BCL and RST;

– 8 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
• comment blocks replaced with TAG blocks;
• scheduled broadcast of Message 26 added;
• Message 27 control added;
• transmitter intermodulation attenuation harmonised with ITU;
• 12,5 kHz channel operation removed;
• transmission of Message 24A, Message 25 and Message 26 added;
• 90 % channel load test with VSI and TAG blocks enabled added.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
CDV Report on voting
80/736/CDV 80/746/RVC
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
A bilingual version of this publication may be issued at a later date.

IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
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INTRODUCTION
Chapter V of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea 1974 (SOLAS) requires
mandatory carriage of Automatic Identification System (AIS) equipment on all vessels
constructed on or after 01 July 2002. Carriage for other types and sizes of SOLAS Convention
vessels was required to be completed not later than 31 December 2004.
SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 19, states that AIS shall:
a) provide automatically to appropriate equipped shore stations, other ships and aircraft
information, including ship's identity, type, position, course, speed, navigational status and
other safety-related information;
b) receive automatically such information from similarly fitted ships;
c) monitor and track ships; and
d) exchange data with shore-based facilities.
In addition, the IMO performance standards for AIS state that:
– The AIS should improve the safety of navigation by assisting in the efficient navigation of
ships, protection of the environment, and operation of Vessel Traffic Services (VTS), by
satisfying the following functional requirements:
1) in a ship-to-ship mode for collision avoidance;
2) as a means for littoral States to obtain information about a ship and its cargo; and
3) as a VTS tool, i.e. ship-to-shore (traffic management).
– The AIS should be capable of providing to ships and to competent authorities, information
from the ship, automatically and with the required accuracy and frequency, to facilitate
accurate tracking. Transmission of the data should be with the minimum involvement of
ship's personnel and with a high level of availability.
The provision of Shore Based AIS is necessary to attain the full benefit of the SOLAS
Convention requirements.
This part of IEC 62320 provides the minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of test and the required test results for AIS Base Stations. The testing is divided into
three sections, the transceiver tests, the logical tests and the Presentation Interface tests.
These are captured in Clauses 8, 9 and 10 respectively. The method used for testing is that
the EUT should meet all the tests requirements of Clause 8 before proceeding to Clause 9.
Likewise, the unit should meet all of the test requirements before proceeding to Clause 10.
Clause 10 has also been prioritised so that the tests are progressive.
Clauses 5 to 7 provide functional requirement information and Clause 8 provides the general
test environment for the EUT.
– 10 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AIS) –

Part 1: AIS Base Stations –
Minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

1 Scope
This part of IEC 62320 specifies the minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results for AIS Base Stations, compatible with the
performance standards adopted by IMO Resolution MSC.74 (69), Annex 3, Universal AIS. It
incorporates the technical characteristics of non-shipborne, fixed station AIS equipment,
included in recommendation ITU-R M.1371 and IALA Recommendation A-124. Where
applicable, it also takes into account the ITU Radio Regulations. This standard takes into
account other associated IEC international standards and existing national standards, as
applicable.
This standard is applicable for AIS Base Stations. It does not include specifications for the
display of AIS data on shore.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 61108-1, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – Global
navigation satellite systems (GNSS) – Part 1: Global positioning system (GPS) – Receiver
equipment – Performance standards, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61162-1:2010, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Digital interfaces – Part 1: Single talker and multiple listeners
IEC 61993-2, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Automatic identification systems (AIS) – Part 2: Class A shipborne equipment of the automatic
identification system (AIS) – Operational and performance requirements, methods of test and
required test results
IEC 62287-1:2010, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Class B shipborne equipment of the automatic identification system (AIS) – Part 1: Carrier-
sense time division multiple access (CSTDMA) techniques
IEC 62287-1:2010/AMD1:2013
IEC 62320-2, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Automatic identification system (AIS) – Part 2: AIS AtoN Stations – Operational and
performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IMO Resolution MSC.74 (69), Annex 3, Recommendation on performance standards for an
universal shipborne automatic identification system (AIS)

ITU-R Recommendation M.1084-4, Interim solutions for improved efficiency in the use of the
band 156-174 MHz by stations in the maritime mobile service
ITU-R Recommendation M.1371, Technical characteristics for an automatic identification
system using time division multiple access in the VHF maritime mobile band
RTCM 10402 – RTCM Recommended Standards for Differential GNSS (Global Navigation
Satellite Systems) Service
IALA Recommendation A-124 on Automatic Identification System (AIS). Shore Station and
networking aspects relating to the AIS Service
3 Abbreviations
AIS Automatic Identification System
AtoN Aids to Navigation
BER Bit Error Rate
BIIT Built-In Integrity Tests
BT Bandwidth Time product
CommState Communication State
NOTE Communication state is defined in Recommendation ITU-R M.1371-4. It is used to indicate whether the AIS
is using the message structure for SOTDMA or ITDMA.
DGNSS Differential Global Navigation Satellite System
EPFS Electronic position fixing system
EUT Equipment under test
FATDMA Fixed Access Time Division Multiple Access
GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System
IALA International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse
Authorities
IMO International Maritime Organization
ITU International Telecommunication Union
LFR Limited Frequency Range
MAC Medium Access Control
MMSI Maritime Mobile Service Identity
NM Nautical Mile
NRZI Non-Return to Zero Inverted
PER Packet Error Rate
Pc Carrier Power
PI Presentation Interface
PPS Pulse Per Second
PSS Physical Shore Station
RAIM Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring
RATDMA Random Access Time Division Multiple Access
RSSI Received signal strength indicator
Rx Receive
SFI Specific Frequency of Interest

– 12 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
TDMA Time Division Multiple Access
Tx Transmit
UI Unique Identifier
UTC Universal Time Co-ordinated
VDL VHF Data Link
VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio
VTS Vessel Traffic Services
4 Functional layout of an AIS Base Station
4.1 General
The Base Station may be designed for dependent only operation or independent operation.
Both are under some control of the Physical Shore Station (PSS) as defined in the IALA
Recommendation A-124.
– dependent Base Station accesses the VHF data link (VDL) using only the combination of
linked TSA+VDM sentences (see Table 1), as provided by the PSS.
– An independent Base Station accesses the VDL using either the combination of linked
TSA+VDM sentences as provided by the PSS or by using internal control. When operated
as an independent Base Station the unit may be delegated certain autonomous
functionality under the supervisory control of the PSS.
The PSS, or external controlling entity, is responsible for Base Station configuration,
transmission scheduling, and processing of received information. Presentation Interface (PI)
text sentences are used to configure the Base Station, schedule message transmissions, and
output information.
When TSA and VDM sentences are used, the PSS is responsible for ensuring the integrity of
the VDL.
The tests in this standard are for all Base Stations. Additional tests for independent Base
Stations are indicated by a note located at the beginning of each appropriate test section.
4.2 Functional block diagram of an AIS Base Station
Figure 1 shows the principal components of the AIS Base Station.

AIS Base Station
AIS TX
I/O
Controller
Options
Internal
Ext UTC
synchronisation
sync
source
DGNSS
AIS RX
RTCM 10402
BIIT
AIS RX
Power supply
IEC
Figure 1 – Functional block diagram of an AIS Base Station
As a minimum, the following functional elements are required for the AIS Base Station:
• two multi-channel receivers;
• one multi-channel TDMA transmitter;
NOTE Since the minimum configuration of the AIS Base Station has only one transmitter, the AIS Base Station
cannot transmit on both AIS Channels (AIS A and AIS B) simultaneously.
• a controlling unit;
• an internal synchronisation source, which may also be used as a position sensor for
independent Base Stations. If used as a position source, the internal GNSS receiver shall
meet the appropriate requirements of IEC 61108-1;
• a Built-In-Integrity-Test unit (BIIT), which shall provide alarms;
• a power supply;
• a Presentation Interface (PI), which allows the AIS Base Station to exchange sentences
with the PSS;
• optional features, for example: DGNSS (RTCM 10402); external synchronisation; DSC
functionality.
4.3 General VDL requirements
4.3.1 Sources of VDL messages for transmission
The AIS Base Station interacts with the VDL by receiving and transmitting VDL messages.
In order to transmit VDL messages, the Base Station may derive the messages to be
transmitted from three sources:
a) generate and transmit VDL messages autonomously as per the configuration received via
sentences;
b) generate and transmit VDL messages automatically based on data input received via the
PI, using different sentences from that of the VDM;
Presentation interface
– 14 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
c) transmit predefined VDL messages input via the PI. The VDM sentence shall be used to
input the content of the VDL messages via the PI to the AIS Base Station. The VDL
message shall then be transmitted by the Base Station on the VDL.
When operating the Base Station independently, these three VDL message sources shall be
supported in parallel.
When operating the Base Station dependently, only VDM messages received via the PI shall
be transmitted as noted in item c) above.
4.3.2 Use of access schemes
4.3.2.1 Dependent operation
When operating as a dependent Base Station the FATDMA access scheme shall be used. The
Base Station shall use the slot(s) provided by the combination of linked TSA+VDM sentences.
The TSA sentence provides the channel and start slot information. The actual number of slots
used is based on the number of bits conveyed by the VDM sentence(s).
Dependent op
...

IEC 62320-1 ®
Edition 2.0 2015-01
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Automatic identification system (AIS) –
Part 1: AIS Base Stations – Minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

Matériels et systèmes de navigation et de radiocommunication maritimes –
Systèmes d'identification automatique (AIS) –
Partie 1: Stations de base AIS – Exigences opérationnelles et de fonctionnement
minimales, méthodes d'essai et résultats d'essai exigés

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IEC 62320-1 ®
Edition 2.0 2015-01
INTERNATIONAL
STANDARD
NORME
INTERNATIONALE
colour
inside
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –

Automatic identification system (AIS) –

Part 1: AIS Base Stations – Minimum operational and performance requirements,

methods of testing and required test results

Matériels et systèmes de navigation et de radiocommunication maritimes –

Systèmes d'identification automatique (AIS) –

Partie 1: Stations de base AIS – Exigences opérationnelles et de fonctionnement

minimales, méthodes d'essai et résultats d'essai exigés

INTERNATIONAL
ELECTROTECHNICAL
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
ELECTROTECHNIQUE
INTERNATIONALE
ICS 47.020.70 ISBN 978-2-8322-1100-9

– 2 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
CONTENTS
FOREWORD . 7
INTRODUCTION . 9
1 Scope . 10
2 Normative references . 10
3 Abbreviations . 11
4 Functional layout of an AIS Base Station . 12
4.1 General . 12
4.2 Functional block diagram of an AIS Base Station . 12
4.3 General VDL requirements . 13
4.3.1 Sources of VDL messages for transmission . 13
4.3.2 Use of access schemes . 14
4.4 Functional diagram for operation of a Base Station . 14
4.5 Base Station input/output sentence formatters . 15
5 Functional definition of the radio interface of the AIS Base Station . 17
5.1 General requirements of the physical layer . 17
5.2 Required parameter settings for the physical layer of the AIS Base Station . 18
5.3 Minimum requirements for the TDMA transmitter of the AIS Base Station . 19
5.4 Minimum requirements for the TDMA receivers of the AIS Base Station . 21
5.5 Shutdown procedure for an AIS Base Station . 21
6 Requirements for AIS Base Station . 21
6.1 General . 21
6.2 Dependent Base Station requirements . 22
6.2.1 General rules . 22
6.2.2 General processing diagram . 22
6.2.3 AIS Base Station response to PI input . 23
6.2.4 AIS Base Station response to VDL input . 23
6.3 Independent Base Station requirements . 23
6.3.1 General rules . 23
6.3.2 General processing diagram . 24
6.3.3 AIS Base Station response to PI input . 24
6.3.4 AIS Base Station interaction on the VDL . 25
6.3.5 Autonomous channel management . 29
6.4 BIIT conditions . 30
6.5 Default settings after reset . 30
6.6 Further requirements for optional features . 31
6.6.1 General . 31
6.6.2 External synchronisation source option . 31
6.6.3 DGNSS dedicated port option . 32
7 Functional definition of the presentation interface of the AIS Base Station . 32
7.1 Physical requirements for the presentation interface . 32
7.2 Presentation interface data exchange . 32
7.2.1 General . 32
7.2.2 Base Station presentation interface output . 32
7.2.3 Base Station presentation interface input . 32
7.2.4 TAG blocks on presentation interface . 32

8 Tests of AIS Base Stations – Method of measurement and required results . 33
8.1 General . 33
8.2 Test conditions . 33
8.2.1 Normal test conditions . 33
8.2.2 Extreme test conditions . 33
8.2.3 Standard test environment . 33
8.2.4 Test signals . 34
8.2.5 Arrangements for test signals applied to the receiver input . 35
8.2.6 Encoder for receiver measurements . 35
8.2.7 Waiver for receivers . 35
8.2.8 Impedance . 35
8.2.9 Artificial antenna (dummy load) . 35
8.2.10 Facilities for access . 35
8.2.11 Operation of the transmitter . 35
8.2.12 Measurement uncertainties . 36
9 Physical radio tests . 36
9.1 Remark . 36
9.2 General transceiver tests . 36
9.2.1 Transceiver protection test . 36
9.2.2 Transmitter shutdown procedure . 37
9.3 TDMA transmitter . 37
9.3.1 General . 37
9.3.2 Frequency error . 37
9.3.3 Carrier power . 38
9.3.4 Modulation spectrum slotted transmission . 38
9.3.5 Transmitter test sequence and modulation accuracy verification . 39
9.3.6 Transmitter output power versus time function . 40
9.3.7 Intermodulation attenuation . 40
9.4 TDMA receivers . 42
9.4.1 Sensitivity . 42
9.4.2 Error behaviour at high input levels. 42
9.4.3 Co-channel rejection . 43
9.4.4 Adjacent channel selectivity . 44
9.4.5 Spurious response rejection . 44
9.4.6 Intermodulation response rejection . 47
9.4.7 Blocking or desensitisation . 48
9.5 Conducted spurious emissions at the antenna . 49
9.5.1 Spurious emissions from the receiver . 49
9.5.2 Spurious emissions from the transmitter . 49
10 Functional tests for Base Station . 49
10.1 Pre-set-up . 49
10.1.1 Basic initialisation . 49
10.1.2 Pre-setup of dependent base station . 50
10.1.3 Pre-setup for independent mode . 50
10.2 Normal operation . 51
10.2.1 Base Station configuration and services . 51
10.2.2 Addressed and broadcast messaging . 66
10.2.3 Interrogations and interrogation response . 69
10.2.4 Addressed operation . 70

– 4 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
10.2.5 Slot phase and frame synchronisation – Base Station operation . 71
10.2.6 Position source . 75
10.2.7 Alarm messages . 76
10.3 Selection of transmission slots . 77
10.3.1 RATDMA Transmission . 77
10.3.2 Intentional slot reuse (link congestion) . 77
10.4 Legacy support . 78
10.4.1 Purpose . 78
10.4.2 Method of measurement . 78
10.4.3 Required results . 79
10.5 TAG Block encapsulation . 79
10.5.1 Application . 79
10.5.2 TAG Block capabilities . 80
10.5.3 Activation of Source identification for output . 80
10.5.4 Activation of Destination identification . 81
10.5.5 Activation of Source identification for input . 82
10.5.6 Use of multiple Source identifications for input . 82
10.5.7 Test of grouping by TAG blocks for output . 83
10.5.8 Test of UNIX time output . 85
10.5.9 Test of Line-count output . 85
10.6 Test of optional functions . 86
10.6.1 Test of external synchronization source . 86
10.6.2 Test of Message 17 based on RTCM 10402 input . 87
Annex A (normative) AIS Base Station sentences . 88
A.1 General . 88
A.2 ACM – AIS Base Station addressed channel management command . 88
A.3 ADS – Automatic device status . 89
A.4 AGA – AIS Base Station broadcast of a group assignment command . 90
A.5 ASN – AIS Base Station broadcast of assignment command . 92
A.6 BCG – Base Station configuration, general command . 93
A.7 BCL – Base Station configuration, location command . 94
A.8 DLM – Data link management slot allocations for Base Station command . 95
A.9 ECB – Configure broadcast schedules for Base Station messages, command. 97
A.10 FSR – Frame summary of AIS reception . 98
A.11 RST – Equipment Reset Command . 99
A.12 SID – Set an equipment’s identification and command . 100
A.13 SPO – Select AIS device’s processing and output command . 101
A.14 TFR – Transmit feed-back report . 102
A.15 TPC – Transmit slot prohibit command . 103
A.16 TSA – Transmit slot assignment . 104
A.17 TSR – Transmit slot prohibit status report . 105
A.18 VSI – VDL signal information . 106
Annex B (normative) Legacy AIS Base Station sentences . 107
B.1 Legacy sentences . 107
B.1.1 BCE – Extended general Base Station configuration . 107
B.1.2 BCF – General Base Station configuration . 107
B.1.3 CAB – Control AIS Base Station . 109
B.1.4 TSP – Transmit slot prohibit. 109
B.2 Comment block . 110

B.3 Comment block parameters for AIS . 111
B.3.1 General . 111
B.3.2 Comment block parameter format . 111
B.3.3 Comment block “hexadecimal checksum” (*hh) . 111
B.3.4 Line (either a comment block, or comment block and sentence) . 111
B.3.5 Group (associated lines) . 112
B.3.6 Parameter-code dictionary . 112
B.3.7 Line linking (sentence linking) . 112
B.3.8 Comment block used with query sentences. 113
Annex C (normative) IEC 61162-1 sentences modified for use with AIS Base Station . 115
C.1 General . 115
C.2 CBR – Configure broadcast rates for AIS AtoN Station message command . 115
C.3 MEB – Message Input for broadcast command . 116
C.4 NAK – Negative acknowledgement. 118
Annex D (normative) AIS Base Station TAG block sentences . 120
D.1 General . 120
D.2 CPC – Configure parameter-code for UNIX time parameter (c) . 120
D.3 CPD – Configure parameter-code for Destination identification parameter
(d) . 121
D.4 CPG – Configure parameter-code for the sentence-grouping parameter (g) . 121
D.5 CPN – Configure parameter-code for the line-count parameter (n) . 123
D.6 CPS – Configure parameter-code for the Source identification parameter(s) . 125
D.7 TBR – TAG block report request . 125
D.8 TBS – TAG block listener Source identification configuration command . 126
Bibliography . 128

Figure 1 – Functional block diagram of an AIS Base Station . 13
Figure 2 – Functional block diagram dependent and independent operation . 15
Figure 3 – Modulation spectrum for slotted transmission . 20
Figure 4 – Power versus time mask . 20
Figure 5 – General processing diagram. 23
Figure 6 – General processing diagram. 24
Figure 7 – Flow diagram for AIS Base Station response to VDM input . 28
Figure 8 – Format for repeating four-packet cluster . 34
Figure 9 – Measurement arrangement for frequency error . 37
Figure 10 – Measurement arrangement for carrier power . 38
Figure 11 – Measurement arrangement for modulation accuracy . 39
Figure 12 – Measurement arrangement for intermodulation attenuation . 41
Figure 13 – Measurement arrangement for sensitivity . 42
Figure 14 – Measurement arrangement for error behaviour . 42
Figure 15 – Measurement arrangement for co-channel rejection . 43
Figure 16 – Measurement arrangement for adjacent channel selectivity . 44
Figure 17 – PER/BER or SINAD measuring equipment . 45
Figure 18 – Measurement arrangement for inter-modulation . 47
Figure 19 – Measurement arrangement for blocking or de-sensitisation . 48
Figure A.1 – Frame summary timing . 98

– 6 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015

Table 1 – Base Station input/output sentence formatters . 16
Table 2 – Required parameter settings for an AIS Base Station . 18
Table 3 – Required settings of physical layer constants . 18
Table 4 – Bandwidth related parameters of the physical layer of the AIS Base Station . 18
Table 5 – Minimum required TDMA transmitter characteristics . 19
Table 6 – Definition of timings for Figure 4 . 20
Table 7 – Minimum TDMA receiver characteristics . 21
Table 8 – Base Station response to input messages from the VDL . 23
Table 9 – Base Station response to input messages from the VDL . 25
Table 10 – Required content of FSR and VSI output . 26
Table 11 – Base Station response to ABM, BBM and AIR input on the PI . 27
Table 12 – BIIT alarm conditions monitored by an AIS Base Station . 30
Table 13 – Settings after reset command . 30
Table 14 – Required TAG block functions . 32
Table 15 – Content of first two packets . 34
Table 16 – Fixed PRS data derived from ITU-T O.153. 35
Table 17 – Maximum values of absolute measurement uncertainties . 36
Table 18 – Frequencies for inter-modulation tests . 48
Table 19 – Calculation of parameters in Message 16 . 63

INTERNATIONAL ELECTROTECHNICAL COMMISSION
____________
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AIS) –

Part 1: AIS Base Stations –
Minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

FOREWORD
1) The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is a worldwide organization for standardization comprising
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5) IEC itself does not provide any attestation of conformity. Independent certification bodies provide conformity
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6) All users should ensure that they have the latest edition of this publication.
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8) Attention is drawn to the Normative references cited in this publication. Use of the referenced publications is
indispensable for the correct application of this publication.
9) Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this IEC Publication may be the subject of
patent rights. IEC shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
International Standard IEC 62320-1 has been prepared by IEC technical Committee 80:
Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems.
This second edition cancels and replaces the first edition published in 2007 and its
Amendment 1:2008. This edition constitutes a technical revision.
This edition includes the following significant technical changes with respect to the previous
edition:
• incorporation of the technical characteristics included in Recommendation
ITU-R M.1371-5;
• the BCE, BCF and CAB sentences replaced with BCG, BCL and RST;

– 8 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
• comment blocks replaced with TAG blocks;
• scheduled broadcast of Message 26 added;
• Message 27 control added;
• transmitter intermodulation attenuation harmonised with ITU;
• 12,5 kHz channel operation removed;
• transmission of Message 24A, Message 25 and Message 26 added;
• 90 % channel load test with VSI and TAG blocks enabled added.
The text of this standard is based on the following documents:
CDV Report on voting
80/736/CDV 80/746/RVC
Full information on the voting for the approval of this standard can be found in the report on
voting indicated in the above table.
This publication has been drafted in accordance with the ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2.
The committee has decided that the contents of this publication will remain unchanged until
the stability date indicated on the IEC website under "http://webstore.iec.ch" in the data
related to the specific publication. At this date, the publication will be
• reconfirmed,
• withdrawn,
• replaced by a revised edition, or
• amended.
IMPORTANT – The 'colour inside' logo on the cover page of this publication indicates
that it contains colours which are considered to be useful for the correct
understanding of its contents. Users should therefore print this document using a
colour printer.
INTRODUCTION
Chapter V of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea 1974 (SOLAS) requires
mandatory carriage of Automatic Identification System (AIS) equipment on all vessels
constructed on or after 01 July 2002. Carriage for other types and sizes of SOLAS Convention
vessels was required to be completed not later than 31 December 2004.
SOLAS Chapter V, Regulation 19, states that AIS shall:
a) provide automatically to appropriate equipped shore stations, other ships and aircraft
information, including ship's identity, type, position, course, speed, navigational status and
other safety-related information;
b) receive automatically such information from similarly fitted ships;
c) monitor and track ships; and
d) exchange data with shore-based facilities.
In addition, the IMO performance standards for AIS state that:
– The AIS should improve the safety of navigation by assisting in the efficient navigation of
ships, protection of the environment, and operation of Vessel Traffic Services (VTS), by
satisfying the following functional requirements:
1) in a ship-to-ship mode for collision avoidance;
2) as a means for littoral States to obtain information about a ship and its cargo; and
3) as a VTS tool, i.e. ship-to-shore (traffic management).
– The AIS should be capable of providing to ships and to competent authorities, information
from the ship, automatically and with the required accuracy and frequency, to facilitate
accurate tracking. Transmission of the data should be with the minimum involvement of
ship's personnel and with a high level of availability.
The provision of Shore Based AIS is necessary to attain the full benefit of the SOLAS
Convention requirements.
This part of IEC 62320 provides the minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of test and the required test results for AIS Base Stations. The testing is divided into
three sections, the transceiver tests, the logical tests and the Presentation Interface tests.
These are captured in Clauses 8, 9 and 10 respectively. The method used for testing is that
the EUT should meet all the tests requirements of Clause 8 before proceeding to Clause 9.
Likewise, the unit should meet all of the test requirements before proceeding to Clause 10.
Clause 10 has also been prioritised so that the tests are progressive.
Clauses 5 to 7 provide functional requirement information and Clause 8 provides the general
test environment for the EUT.
– 10 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
MARITIME NAVIGATION AND RADIOCOMMUNICATION
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS –
AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM (AIS) –

Part 1: AIS Base Stations –
Minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results

1 Scope
This part of IEC 62320 specifies the minimum operational and performance requirements,
methods of testing and required test results for AIS Base Stations, compatible with the
performance standards adopted by IMO Resolution MSC.74 (69), Annex 3, Universal AIS. It
incorporates the technical characteristics of non-shipborne, fixed station AIS equipment,
included in recommendation ITU-R M.1371 and IALA Recommendation A-124. Where
applicable, it also takes into account the ITU Radio Regulations. This standard takes into
account other associated IEC international standards and existing national standards, as
applicable.
This standard is applicable for AIS Base Stations. It does not include specifications for the
display of AIS data on shore.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and
are indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any
amendments) applies.
IEC 61108-1, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems – Global
navigation satellite systems (GNSS) – Part 1: Global positioning system (GPS) – Receiver
equipment – Performance standards, methods of testing and required test results
IEC 61162-1:2010, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Digital interfaces – Part 1: Single talker and multiple listeners
IEC 61993-2, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Automatic identification systems (AIS) – Part 2: Class A shipborne equipment of the automatic
identification system (AIS) – Operational and performance requirements, methods of test and
required test results
IEC 62287-1:2010, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Class B shipborne equipment of the automatic identification system (AIS) – Part 1: Carrier-
sense time division multiple access (CSTDMA) techniques
IEC 62287-1:2010/AMD1:2013
IEC 62320-2, Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems –
Automatic identification system (AIS) – Part 2: AIS AtoN Stations – Operational and
performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results
IMO Resolution MSC.74 (69), Annex 3, Recommendation on performance standards for an
universal shipborne automatic identification system (AIS)

ITU-R Recommendation M.1084-4, Interim solutions for improved efficiency in the use of the
band 156-174 MHz by stations in the maritime mobile service
ITU-R Recommendation M.1371, Technical characteristics for an automatic identification
system using time division multiple access in the VHF maritime mobile band
RTCM 10402 – RTCM Recommended Standards for Differential GNSS (Global Navigation
Satellite Systems) Service
IALA Recommendation A-124 on Automatic Identification System (AIS). Shore Station and
networking aspects relating to the AIS Service
3 Abbreviations
AIS Automatic Identification System
AtoN Aids to Navigation
BER Bit Error Rate
BIIT Built-In Integrity Tests
BT Bandwidth Time product
CommState Communication State
NOTE Communication state is defined in Recommendation ITU-R M.1371-4. It is used to indicate whether the AIS
is using the message structure for SOTDMA or ITDMA.
DGNSS Differential Global Navigation Satellite System
EPFS Electronic position fixing system
EUT Equipment under test
FATDMA Fixed Access Time Division Multiple Access
GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System
IALA International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse
Authorities
IMO International Maritime Organization
ITU International Telecommunication Union
LFR Limited Frequency Range
MAC Medium Access Control
MMSI Maritime Mobile Service Identity
NM Nautical Mile
NRZI Non-Return to Zero Inverted
PER Packet Error Rate
Pc Carrier Power
PI Presentation Interface
PPS Pulse Per Second
PSS Physical Shore Station
RAIM Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring
RATDMA Random Access Time Division Multiple Access
RSSI Received signal strength indicator
Rx Receive
SFI Specific Frequency of Interest

– 12 – IEC 62320-1:2015  IEC 2015
TDMA Time Division Multiple Access
Tx Transmit
UI Unique Identifier
UTC Universal Time Co-ordinated
VDL VHF Data Link
VSWR Voltage Standing Wave Ratio
VTS Vessel Traffic Services
4 Functional layout of an AIS Base Station
4.1 General
The Base Station may be designed for dependent only operation or independent operation.
Both are under some control of the Physical Shore Station (PSS) as defined in the IALA
Recommendation A-124.
– dependent Base Station accesses the VHF data link (VDL) using only the combination of
linked TSA+VDM sentences (see Table 1), as provided by the PSS.
– An independent Base Station accesses the VDL using either the combination of linked
TSA+VDM sentences as provided by the PSS or by using internal control. When operated
as an independent Base Station the unit may be delegated certain autonomous
functionality under the supervisory control of the PSS.
The PSS, or external controlling entity, is responsible for Base Station configuration,
transmission scheduling, and processing of received information. Presentation Interface (PI)
text sentences are used to configure the Base Station, schedule message transmissions, and
output information.
When TSA and VDM sentences are used, the PSS is responsible for ensuring the integrity of
the VDL.
The tests in this standard are for all Base Stations. Additional tests for independent Base
Stations are indicated by a note located at the beginning of each appropriate test section.
4.2 Functional block diagram of an AIS Base Station
Figure 1 shows the principal components of the AIS Base Station.

AIS Base Stat
...