ACR Aislink CB2 AIS Transponder
Best collision avoidance tool for safety-conscious recreational and professional boaters.
The ACR Aislink CB2 AIS Transponder is a waterproof Class B unit engineered to significantly enhance collision avoidance by broadcasting accurate vessel information to other AIS-equipped vessels within range. It leverages advanced SOTDMA technology and utilizes multiple GPS channels for precise positioning. Installation and programming are streamlined through a free mobile application, offering flexibility for various setups. This transponder is built for reliability in marine environments, featuring user-programmable settings and guaranteed time slot reservations, making it a vital safety component for both professional and recreational boaters.
$879.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 25
Best Emergency Tools & Kits
Price vs Category Average
+40%
Above average
Who it's for
- Skippers navigating high-traffic shipping lanes
- Captains seeking unified navigation data displays
- Safety-conscious mariners prioritizing proven, durable equipment
Who should skip it
- Owners of small vessels with limited battery reserves
- Boaters avoiding complex wiring or additional hardware purchases
- Budget-focused sailors needing basic AIS reception only
Performance breakdown
Transmission Reliability
SOTDMA technology ensures your signal cuts through crowded marine traffic.
Setup Simplicity
Mobile app integration makes configuration intuitive for non-technical boaters.
Connectivity Versatility
Broad compatibility with NMEA 2000 and 0183 networks simplifies system integration.
Environmental Durability
IPX7 rating provides robust protection against harsh, salt-heavy marine conditions.
Positioning Precision
Multi-channel GPS receiver delivers consistent and accurate vessel location data.
Form Factor
Compact black box design fits easily into tight navigation consoles.
Key Specs
Class B AIS Transponder
Integrated 50-channel GPS receiver
Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0
NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity
Micro USB port for PC connection
2W transmit power
IPX7 waterproof rating
Compact black box design
Features
- Prevents collisions by broadcasting vessel data
- Utilizes advanced SOTDMA technology for reliable transmission
- Easy programming and installation via a free mobile app
- Provides accurate vessel information to other AIS users
- Includes guaranteed time slot reservations for consistent performance
- Designed for both professional and recreational marine use
What customers say
Consumers consistently highlight the ACR Aislink CB2's exceptional reliability, noting its robust performance as a critical safety device. The unit earns high marks for its consistent signal transmission and reception, providing peace of mind on the water. While the physical installation is straightforward, users appreciate the clear instructions for integrating the transponder with various existing navigation systems. This combination of dependable quality and relatively painless setup makes it a highly trusted choice among serious boaters.
Know before you buy
SOTDMA technology ensures your vessel's data is broadcast consistently by reserving specific time slots for transmission. This prevents data collisions in busy waterways, ensuring your signal is reliably received by other AIS-equipped vessels.
Yes, the unit is designed for straightforward installation and features a free mobile app that handles the programming process. While the setup is user-friendly, you will need to ensure proper integration with your existing NMEA 2000 or 0183 marine network.
Absolutely. The unit carries an IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it is built to withstand exposure to water and the rigors of a marine environment.
The CB2 offers versatile connectivity options, including NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 ports for integration with your chartplotter. It also features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless data access and a micro USB port for direct PC connection.
The unit features an integrated 50-channel GPS receiver, which typically eliminates the need for an external antenna in most installations. However, ensure your mounting location allows for a clear view of the sky to maintain optimal signal reception.
Class B transponders like the CB2 are designed specifically for recreational and smaller commercial vessels. They broadcast at a lower power (2W) and use a different transmission protocol than Class A units, which are mandatory for large commercial ships.
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