AIS Server

SiiTech AIS Server is a software solution that collects AIS and ARPA (Automatic Radar Plotting Aid) messages, redistributes them, and decodes and stores AIS and ARPA data in the database.

AIS Server supports radars with Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) capability.

AIS Server may be used as a single program or as a component of a scalable AIS network system.

AIS Server is a foundation of SiiTech's web-based marine traffic monitoring solution. Used in combination with Web VTS, AIS Server allows the information from one or more AIS base station, transponder and/or receiver to be analyzed, logged, filtered, and represented to users.

AIS Server connects AIS network nodes (AIS transponders/receivers, users, databases, and/or networks) and allows AIS messages to easily and efficiently flow from one node to another. It connects at least two nodes and send each AIS message based on the current configuration of the nodes. You configure AIS Server to pass along certain messages to certain nodes on a network. AIS Server can also store all received AIS messages in the database.

SiiTech has developed a modular and scalable AIS Server solution that meets the needs of shore-based and ship-based AIS users. For shore-based networks, AIS Server enables the flow of information from one or more isolated base stations to a Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) centre. With AIS Server all VTS centers may be joined in a regional or national AIS network. The distribution of AIS data (standard and proprietary messages) from one central location to shared locations, makes AIS Server essential in many diverse environments.

AIS Server performs a number of functions when data is passed into it; unlike hardware routers found on the internet that simply pass information from one network to another. AIS Server can filter data as it is received, and does not necessarily forward all received information. Nodes are allowed to forward and/or accept messages on a case by case basis. Proprietary message handling capability allows SiiTech to offer complete customization of AIS Server to meet your specific needs.

The future of your network is dependant on the flow of information from all nodes (AIS transponders/receivers, users, databases, and/or networks). AIS Server provides a reliable flow of AIS data to your environment that is flexible and highly configurable.

AIS Server designed to perform the following functions:

• Receiving AIS and ARPA messages from AIS transponders/receivers through serial ports
• Receiving AIS and ARPA messages from AIS transponders/receivers using TCP/IP protocol (e.g. through the Internet)
• Sending AIS messages to AIS transponders through serial ports
• Sending AIS messages to AIS transponders using TCP/IP protocol (e.g. through the Internet)
• Sending AIS and ARPA messages to other AIS servers or clients using TCP/IP protocol (e.g. through the Internet)
• Supporting multiple TCP server/client connections;
• Supporting multiple serial port connections
• Filtering AIS messages by MMSI numbers
• Filtering AIS and ARPA messages by geographical coordinates (latitude/longitude)
• Saving AIS and ARPA messages into the database without any time or size limits
• Sending and receiving addressed and broadcasted safety messages
• Sending virtual Aids to Navigation (AtoN) messages (only if connected to Base Stations)
• Ability to work as a service (e.g. when a computer is rebooted AIS Server starts automatically)

AIS Server is available in three versions:

1. AIS Server Lite, entry level version, free for noncommercial usage. This version does not store historical data. You may use this version to exchange your AIS data with other people or to send your AIS data to SiiTech and watch your vessels with SiiTech Web VTS service.
2. AIS Server Mate, restricted version. This version does not store historical data.
3. AIS Server Professional, full functional product.

See AIS Server Comparison Sheet and Product Price List for more information.