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

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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

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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™.

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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.

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FURUNO AIS Equipment

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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

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Typical FA-170 System Components

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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

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Shipboard AIS Installation

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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.

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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

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GPS Position Not Available

Possible Causes:

• GPS Antenna Failure
• Signal Obstruction
• GPS Receiver Fault

Solution:

• Verify GPS Antenna Condition
• Inspect Cabling
• Confirm Satellite Reception

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AIS Transmission Failure

Possible Causes:

• VHF Transmitter Fault
• Antenna Damage
• Power Supply Problem

Solution:

• Check AIS Status Menu
• Inspect RF Connections
• Verify Power Input

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Sensor Data Missing

Possible Causes:

• NMEA Communication Error
• Interface Wiring Fault

Solution:

• Verify NMEA Inputs
• Inspect Communication Ports

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Display Alarm Active

Possible Causes:

• Sensor Failure
• Communication Loss
• GPS Error

Solution:

• Review Alarm Messages
• Verify Connected Equipment

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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.

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AIS Communication & Tracking

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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.

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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.

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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

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