Disclaimer:This article was originally published on 14 January 2020. Prices and product details may have changed since then. For the most current information, please refer to our News section.
This upgrade provides full AIS reception capability, an important safety enhancement, especially for cross‑Channel passages, where navigating without AIS can feel like trying to run across a busy motorway.
All components are included, and every VMH tablet chartplotter is pre‑configured to work seamlessly with this kit. Once installed on your vessel, simply power on the tablet and AIS targets will appear automatically whenever they are within range.
Kit contents
Quark A24 multi‑channel AIS receiver
Low‑noise 12/24V power supply, designed to eliminate electrical interference from alternators and onboard systems
Flat‑base VHF whip aerial with 2m cable (can be bonded to any flat surface)
5m coaxial aerial extension lead
Wi‑Fi output from the Quark A24 to the tablet, no data wiring required
Mount the VHF aerial Select a suitable location, typically on the pushpit or a gantry. This position also allows the aerial to serve as an emergency backup for your main VHF radio. Height is not critical for AIS reception.
Route the aerial cable Run the cable to the intended mounting point for the Quark A24.
Install the Quark A24 Position the unit near your existing instruments in a dry, accessible area close to the wiring panel. Attach the supplied Wi‑Fi antenna.
Connect the power supply Wire the low‑noise PSU into the boat’s 12/24V system via a suitable switch and fuse or breaker. Connect the PSU to the Quark using the supplied micro‑USB cable.
Power on and verify Switch on the system and confirm that the Quark’s indicator LEDs illuminate.
Once installed, simply turn on your pre‑paired VMH tablet chartplotter and AIS targets will begin to display whenever vessels are within reception range.
Collision alerts
AIS data received by the Quark A24 is transmitted via Wi‑Fi to the VMH tablet, enabling collision‑avoidance alerts and enhanced situational awareness.
Compatible VMH tablet chartplotter packages*
Use the drop‑down menu on the product page to add the AIS kit to your chosen package.
Samsung SM‑T395 Rugged Chartplotter Tablet £199.33. With AIS kit: £339.33
Samsung 10" Chartplotter Tablet £189.33. With AIS kit: £329.33
All prices include UK postage.
Guarantees
All AIS‑equipped chartplotter packages are covered by:
VMH 30‑day no‑quibble money‑back guarantee
London Chartplotter 6‑month parts and labour warranty (Standard terms & conditions apply)
