Furuno FA170 Class A AIS Transponder with 4.3" Color LCD Display
Professional Grade Class A AIS Transponder for Commercial Maritime Operations
The Furuno FA170 represents the pinnacle of professional marine navigation technology, delivering IMO-compliant Class A AIS transponder functionality with an intuitive 4.3-inch color LCD display. Engineered specifically for commercial vessels, this transponder system provides comprehensive collision avoidance support through seamless integration with ECDIS, radar, and other critical navigation equipment.
Advanced Navigation Safety and Collision Avoidance
IMO-Compliant Professional Operation
Meets all IMO Class A AIS requirements with BAM (Bridge Alert Management) capability per MSC.302 (87) specifications, ensuring regulatory compliance for commercial vessels operating in international waters.
Comprehensive Target Management
Store and track up to 2,048 AIS targets and AIS-SART signals simultaneously, with intelligent dangerous target detection and automated alert generation for enhanced situational awareness.
Multi-System Integration
Six input/output ports plus three dedicated input ports enable seamless dual configuration with ECDIS and radar systems, while LAN connectivity simplifies network integration on modern vessels.
Technical Specifications & Features
Display & Interface
- Display Size: 4.3-inch color LCD with high-resolution target visualization
- User Interface: Intuitive menu system with pop-up target detail windows
- Target Symbols: Clear differentiation for vessels, coastal stations, and navigation aids
- Data Output: Compatible with ECDIS, radar, and chartplotter systems
Connectivity & Ports
- I/O Ports: 6 bidirectional input/output connections
- Input Ports: 3 dedicated input-only connections
- Network: 1 LAN port for Ethernet integration
- Alarm Output: Contact closure port for external alarm systems
- Power Requirements: 12-24 VDC operation
Operational Capabilities
- Target Storage: Up to 2,048 AIS targets and AIS-SART signals
- Message Capacity: 20 transmitted and 20 received safety messages
- Communication: VHF digital selective calling with MMSI targeting
- Range: Full VHF coverage area for AIS signal reception
- BAM Ready: Bridge Alert Management per IMO MSC.302 (87)
Complete System Components
- FA1701 Transponder Unit: Main processing and transmission hardware
- FA1702 Display Unit: 4.3-inch color LCD interface panel
- GPA017S/S GPS Antenna: High-precision positioning receiver
- 15m GPS Cable: Weather-resistant connection cable
- 001-426-390-00 Cable Assembly: 5-meter system interconnection
- Documentation Package: Operator's manual, installation guide, and quick reference
Enhanced Maritime Safety Features
AIS-SART Integration
Automatically receives and processes Search and Rescue Transponder (AIS-SART) signals to assist in emergency response and SAR coordination activities.
Dangerous Target Alerts
Intelligent collision risk assessment with automatic dangerous target list generation and visual/audio warnings for vessels on potential collision courses.
Safety Message Exchange
Transmit and receive critical safety-related communications with specific vessels or broadcast to all AIS-equipped traffic within VHF range.
Installation & Compatibility
System Requirements
- UAIS-rated VHF antenna (CX4-3 recommended or equivalent)
- Stable 12-24 VDC power supply with adequate amperage capacity
- Weather-protected mounting location for display unit
- Clear GPS antenna positioning for optimal satellite reception
Integration Options
- Direct NMEA 0183 output to chartplotters and navigation systems
- Ethernet connectivity for modern integrated bridge systems
- Dual radar and ECDIS system configuration support
- Optional pilot plug for specialized bridge configurations
Certifications & Regulatory Compliance
- IMO Class A AIS: Fully compliant with International Maritime Organization standards
- MSC.302 (87): Bridge Alert Management system compatibility
- ITU-R M.1371-5: Technical characteristics for universal shipborne AIS
- IEC 61993-2: Class A shipborne equipment operational and performance requirements
- USCG Type Approval: Certified for U.S. commercial vessel operations
Frequently Asked Questions
What vessels require Class A AIS transponders?
Class A AIS transponders are mandatory for commercial vessels over 300 gross tonnage on international voyages, cargo vessels over 500 GT on domestic voyages, and all passenger vessels regardless of size. The Furuno FA170 meets all IMO requirements for these applications.
Can the FA170 integrate with existing radar and chartplotter systems?
Yes, the FA170 features multiple output ports specifically designed for dual configuration with ECDIS and radar systems. It provides NMEA 0183 data output and Ethernet connectivity for seamless integration with modern navigation equipment.
What is BAM readiness and why is it important?
BAM (Bridge Alert Management) readiness ensures the transponder meets IMO MSC.302 (87) requirements for integrated alarm management systems. This allows the FA170 to properly interface with modern bridge alert management systems for comprehensive safety monitoring.
How many AIS targets can the system track simultaneously?
The FA170 can store and display up to 2,048 AIS targets and AIS-SART signals simultaneously. The system automatically manages target lists and provides detailed information for each tracked vessel within VHF range.
Does the system include GPS positioning capability?
Yes, the FA170 includes an integrated GPS receiver with the GPA017S/S antenna and 15-meter cable. This provides the precise positioning data required for accurate AIS transponder operation and target tracking.
Ideal Applications
Commercial Cargo Vessels
Essential for international and domestic cargo operations requiring IMO Class A AIS compliance
Passenger Ship Operations
Mandatory safety equipment for all passenger vessels with comprehensive collision avoidance
Offshore Support Vessels
Critical navigation aid for complex offshore operations and platform support activities
Fishing Fleet Operations
Enhanced safety and fleet coordination for commercial fishing operations in congested areas