HS-MX1201GT: Multi-Function Embedded AIS Transceiver Module

AIS Transceiver Module

The HS-MX1201GT is our next-generation, fully integrated embedded AIS (Automatic Identification System) module solution. Designed for versatility and reliability, it delivers critical navigation assistance and communication capabilities for a wide range of maritime applications. Whether for vessel collision avoidance, smart aids to navigation (AtoN), or port management systems, the HS-MX1201GT provides a robust, low-power, and cost-effective core for your marine electronics.

Figure 1  Physical Diagram

2. Features and Functions                

• Features a dedicated AIS processor SoC chip
• Fully integrated AIS transceiver module
• Supports low and high transmit power of 2W and 5W
• Meets ultra-high sensitivity reception requirements down to -119dBm
• Compatible with the requirements and specifications for AIS AtoN with Types I/II/III
• Supports automatic receiving and processing of AIS message from other vessels or VTS shore stations
• Extracts position, heading, speed, and other information, encapsulating data in standard AIS message format
• Complies with IEC 60945, IEC 62287-1, IEC 62320-2, and ITU-R M1371-5 standards
• Ultra-compact size (70mm x 70mm x 14mm), suitable for embedded and miniaturized AIS applications
• Suitable for general maritime communication and navigation systems, portable shore-based stations, inland and offshore navigation aids, offshore platforms, marine buoys, smart fisheries, offshore wind power equipment, and bridge collision avoidance warning systems.

3. Technical Specifications at a Glance

For developers and system integrators, the HS-MX1201GT offers a superior technical profile:

Parameter	Specification
AIS Channels	161.975 MHz (AIS1), 162.025 MHz (AIS2)
Receiver Sensitivity	≤ -119 dBm
Output Power	2W / 5W (Selectable)
Operating Voltage	9V to 36V DC
Communication Port	TTL & RS232 (NMEA 0183)
Baud Rate	38,400 bps
Operating Temperature	-20°C to +60°C

Versatile Applications

The HS-MX1201GT AIS transceiver module It is engineered to address the demands of modern maritime technology. Its primary applications include:

• Marine Navigation and Communication Equipment
• Smart Aids to Navigation (AtoN) & Integrated Nav-Aid Lights
• Bridge Collision Avoidance Warning Systems
• Maritime Electronic Fences and Portable AIS Base Stations
• Offshore Platforms, Marine Buoys, and Smart Fisheries
• Offshore Wind Farm Equipment Monitoring

4. Dimensions (unit: mm)

5. Interface Definition

Connector ①
Serial Number	Definition	Connection Instructions	Remarks
①	VHF	Connect to AIS Antenna	MCX (female)

Connector ②
Serial Number	Definition	Connection Instructions	Remarks
②	GPS	Connect to GPS/BeiDou Antenna	MCX(Female)

Connector ③
Serial Number	Definition	Connection Instructions	Remarks
③	GND	Power Supply Negative
	VCC	Power Supply Positive,_12V DC

Connector ④
Serial Number	Definition	Connection Instructions	Remarks
④	TXD	RS232 data output	Customization
	RX	External GPS, TTL Serial Input
	1PPS	UTC second pulse input
	RXD	RS232 data input
	GND	Ground

Connector ⑤
Serial Number	Definition	Connection Instructions	Remarks
⑤	TX	TTL Output
	RX	TTL Input
	GND	Ground

Connector ⑥
Serial Number	Definition	Connection Instructions	Remarks
⑥	SILENT	Silent Switch
	GND	Ground

6. Connections

6.1 Power Supply

12VDC(Typical) regulated power supply input. Note polarity.

 Figure 3  Power Supply Connection

6.2 Communication Interface

Use an RS232-to-USB adapter cable to connect to a PC. Configure the correct COM port with a baud rate of 38.4 kbps. A universal serial debugging tool is recommended. The following diagram illustrates an RS232 DB9 male connector.

Figure 4 RS232 Communication Connection

6.3 AIS and GPS Antenna Connection

Figure 5 VHF Antenna Connection

Figure 6 GPS Antenna Connection

7. Status and Indicator Light Description

7.1 POWER Indicator
When the module is connected to a 12V power source, LED1 remains solid yellow after power-up.
7.2 TX Transmission Indicator
LED3 flashes when an AIS message is being transmitted.
7.3 GPS Positioning Indicator
When the module’s GPS has acquired a position, LED2 remains solid red; otherwise, the indicator continues to flash.

Figure 7 Operating and Status Indicators

8. Default Settings

8.1 Manufacturing Default
The module ships in AIS portable base station mode, supporting features like virtual beacons, and defaults to outputting correctly parsed AIS message data via the RS232 serial port.

The module supports two positioning modes. When using an external active GPS antenna input or the module’s built-in GPS signal reception, no hardware modification is required. Simply configure the following software commands:

$PAIS,CMD,C,GPS_SOURCE,BUILT-IN68 $PAIS,CMD,C,GPS_SOURCE,NMEA018309.

By default, the module disables GPS data output. To enable GPS data output, configure it via serial software using AT commands.

8.2 Hardware Configuration and Precautions
To operate the module in AIS Class B mode, configure via software commands over the RS232 serial port. Refer to Figure 4 for RS232 serial communication connections.

To switch to TTL communication, configure the circuit by relocating the two resistors circled in red in Figure 8 to the corresponding positions circled in red below, thereby enabling TTL communication.

Figure 8 TTL Communication Port Configuration

9. Software Configuration

Please refer to the <HS-MX1201GT Configuration Command Guide>.

10. Ordering Model Summary

Product Model	Communication Port	Function	Code	MOQ	Remark
MX1201GTHC	3.3V TTL	AIS Class B	32001-000017-01	10+	None
MX1201GTTA	3.3V TTL	AIS AtoN	32001-000017-02	10+	Yellow
MX1201GTHA	RS232	AIS AtoN	32001-000019-00	1000	Custom