FURUNO FA-170 AIS Transponder – Complete Technical Guide, Features, Installation, Troubleshooting & Maintenance
FURUNO FA-170 AIS Transponder
Complete Technical Overview, Features, Components, Troubleshooting & Maintenance Guide
Manufacturer
FURUNO Electric Co., Ltd.
Country of Origin
Japan
Product Type
Class A AIS (Automatic Identification System) Transponder
Marine Application
Ship Identification, Vessel Tracking, Collision Avoidance, Traffic Monitoring, Maritime Safety Communications
Product Introduction
The FURUNO FA-170 AIS Transponder is a high-performance Class A Automatic Identification System designed to improve navigational safety by automatically exchanging vessel information with nearby ships and shore stations.
AIS technology has become one of the most important safety tools in modern shipping, helping navigators identify surrounding traffic, assess collision risks, and maintain situational awareness in congested waterways.
The FA-170 is widely installed on:
- Cargo Vessels
- Oil Tankers
- Chemical Tankers
- Bulk Carriers
- Container Ships
- Passenger Vessels
- Offshore Support Vessels
FURUNO FA-170 AIS Transponder
(Use Your Original Product Image Here)
The image above shows the FURUNO FA-170 AIS display unit and transponder system currently available through SM MARINE SERVICE™.
What Is an AIS Transponder?
An AIS (Automatic Identification System) is a marine navigation system that automatically broadcasts and receives vessel information using VHF radio communication.
AIS continuously exchanges data such as:
- Vessel Name
- MMSI Number
- Position
- Course Over Ground (COG)
- Speed Over Ground (SOG)
- Heading
- Destination
- ETA
- Navigational Status
This information helps ships identify nearby traffic and avoid collisions.
FURUNO AIS Equipment
Main Features
Class A AIS Compliance
The FA-170 fully complies with international Class A AIS carriage requirements.
Real-Time Vessel Tracking
Provides continuous updates on nearby vessel movements.
GPS Integration
Works together with onboard GPS receivers to transmit accurate vessel positions.
Collision Avoidance Support
Allows navigators to monitor surrounding traffic and evaluate potential collision risks.
AIS Target Monitoring
Displays information from multiple AIS-equipped vessels simultaneously.
Long-Term Reliability
Designed for continuous marine operation under harsh shipboard conditions.
Multi-Sensor Integration
Interfaces with:
- GPS
- Gyro Compass
- ECDIS
- Radar
- VDR/SVDR
- Voyage Monitoring Systems
Typical FA-170 System Components
Main Components
1. Display Unit
Provides AIS information and system status.
Functions include:
- Target Monitoring
- Alarm Display
- System Configuration
- Navigation Information
2. AIS Transponder Unit
Processes transmitted and received AIS information.
3. GPS Interface
Provides accurate vessel positioning data.
4. VHF AIS Antenna
Handles AIS communication between ships and shore stations.
5. Power Supply System
Supports continuous operation under marine conditions.
6. Sensor Interface Connections
Receives data from:
- GPS
- Gyro
- Speed Log
- Navigation Systems
Shipboard AIS Installation
Marine Applications
The FA-170 AIS system is used for:
Collision Avoidance
Provides navigators with critical information about nearby vessels.
Vessel Traffic Services (VTS)
Supports communication with coastal traffic monitoring stations.
Fleet Monitoring
Allows operators to track vessel movements.
Search and Rescue Support
Provides vessel identification and position information during emergencies.
ECDIS Integration
Displays AIS targets directly on electronic navigation charts.
Common Problems & Troubleshooting
No AIS Targets Displayed
Possible Causes:
- Antenna Failure
- Incorrect Configuration
- VHF Communication Problem
Solution:
- Check AIS Antenna
- Verify Cable Connections
- Confirm VHF Operation
GPS Position Not Available
Possible Causes:
- GPS Antenna Failure
- Signal Obstruction
- GPS Receiver Fault
Solution:
- Verify GPS Antenna Condition
- Inspect Cabling
- Confirm Satellite Reception
AIS Transmission Failure
Possible Causes:
- VHF Transmitter Fault
- Antenna Damage
- Power Supply Problem
Solution:
- Check AIS Status Menu
- Inspect RF Connections
- Verify Power Input
Sensor Data Missing
Possible Causes:
- NMEA Communication Error
- Interface Wiring Fault
Solution:
- Verify NMEA Inputs
- Inspect Communication Ports
Display Alarm Active
Possible Causes:
- Sensor Failure
- Communication Loss
- GPS Error
Solution:
- Review Alarm Messages
- Verify Connected Equipment
Maintenance Tips
Routine maintenance should include:
- Inspect AIS Antenna
- Verify GPS Reception
- Check NMEA Communication Inputs
- Confirm MMSI Configuration
- Test AIS Transmission
- Clean Display Unit
- Inspect Power Connections
- Review Alarm History
- Verify Integration with Radar and ECDIS
Regular inspections help ensure compliance and reliable operation.
AIS Communication & Tracking
Why Ships Still Use AIS Systems
AIS remains one of the most important navigation technologies because it:
- Enhances Navigational Safety
- Improves Situational Awareness
- Supports Collision Avoidance
- Assists Traffic Monitoring
- Improves Search and Rescue Operations
- Supports Regulatory Compliance
- Integrates with Modern Bridge Systems
Today, AIS is considered essential equipment for safe maritime navigation worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the FURUNO FA-170?
The FA-170 is a Class A AIS Transponder used for vessel identification and tracking.
What information does AIS transmit?
AIS transmits vessel identity, position, speed, course, heading, destination, and navigational status.
Is AIS mandatory?
AIS carriage is mandatory for many SOLAS vessels under international maritime regulations.
Can AIS work with ECDIS?
Yes. The FA-170 integrates directly with ECDIS systems.
Does AIS replace radar?
No. AIS complements radar but does not replace it.
Short Product Description
The FURUNO FA-170 AIS Transponder is a professional Class A Automatic Identification System designed to improve maritime safety through real-time vessel identification, tracking, and communication. It supports collision avoidance, fleet monitoring, and compliance with international navigation regulations.
SM MARINE SERVICE™
Marine Automation & Navigation Equipment Supplier
Available Condition:
• New Equipment
• Used Equipment
• Refurbished Equipment
• Reconditioned Equipment
Stock Location:
• Bangladesh
• China
Services:
• Worldwide Shipping
• Technical Support
• Spare Parts Supply
• Marine Equipment Sourcing
Contact Information
SM MARINE SERVICE™
Samir Market, DT Road, Pahartali, beside CDA Market, Chattogram, Bangladesh
Mobile / WhatsApp / Viber: +88 01818 929292
Email: info@smmarineservice.com
Website: www.smmarineservice.com
User Manual & Technical Resources
Product Manual
Download PDF Click Here