The Android APK version of CONNECT-AIS can be downloaded from - https://play.google.com/store/search?q=connect-ais&c=apps&hl=en_GB
The iOS version of CONNECT-AIS can be downloaded from the App Store – https://apps.apple.com/us/app/connect-ais/id1507169676?ign-mpt=uo%3D4en
*If you're having trouble downloading CONNECT-AIS using the above link, please search for it using the Play Store app on your mobile device instead.
Establishing a Connection
iOS – Wi-Fi
Connect your phone to the AIS unit’s Wi-Fi network using Settings > Wi-Fi. CONNECT-AIS uses the default IP address 192.168.2.1 and port 5000. Enter the unit’s Wi-Fi password when prompted.
Android – Bluetooth
Enable Bluetooth and open CONNECT-AIS. Bluetooth pairing is available for 5 minutes after the unit is powered on. If this window has expired, completely remove and reapply power, including USB. Previously paired devices do not need to be paired again.
Open CONNECT-AIS, select your AIS device, and enter the last four digits of the unit’s serial number if prompted.
If you cannot connect, contact support@em-trak.com.
Your Vessel Details
Select Configure your AIS Transceiver and enter the vessel information from your licence.
If you do not have an MMSI number, contact your local authority. If the MMSI has already been programmed and needs changing, use the MMSI change option in the app or contact support@em-trak.com for assistance.
Other vessel details can be edited at any time using CONNECT-AIS.
Your Vessel Dimensions
Enter the GPS antenna position in metres relative to the vessel dimensions. If using the internal GPS antenna, enter the position of the AIS unit itself.
Check the information carefully before confirming.
Home
The icon in the top-right shows the unit status:
- Green: Operating normally
- Red: An issue requires attention
Tap the status icon to open Diagnostics.
COG, SOG and position show your own vessel information. The target plot displays nearby AIS vessels; select a target to view its details.
Settings
Tap the cog icon to access Settings.
My AIS
View and edit your vessel details.
Diagnostics
Check the transceiver status. Green ticks indicate normal operation; a red ! indicates an issue. Tap it for more information.
GPS Performance
Check GPS reception and antenna performance. A good GPS signal is typically 30 dBHz or higher.
Enable GPS Sentences
Enable or disable GPS data output over USB, NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000.
Serial Port Baud Rates
Set the NMEA 0183 baud rate to match connected equipment. Typically:
- Chartplotter/AIS: 38,400 baud
- VHF radio: 4,800 baud
AIS data should use 38,400 baud to avoid dropped messages in high-traffic areas.
Software Versions
Displays the unit’s software versions and serial number.
Diagnostic Log
Generate a diagnostic log for troubleshooting. For best results, allow the unit to operate for approximately 30 minutes before generating the log, then send it with details of the issue to support@em-trak.com.
MY-TRAK
Download and export voyage history in GPX format. Position data is recorded at 6-minute intervals for every 100 m travelled and stored for up to 30 days.
Silent Mode
Enable Silent Mode to stop AIS transmissions. The unit will continue to receive and output AIS data. The blue LED illuminates while Silent Mode is active.
MMSI Number Change
The MMSI number can be changed through the Edit Vessel menu in CONNECT-AIS.
For further assistance with CONNECT-AIS, contact support@em-trak.com.