Insights on Using Comar Systems’ R500Ni AIS Receiver

What is the R500Ni AIS Receiver?

The R500Ni is an AIS receiver coupled with a Raspberry Pi 3B+ mini computer. It is known for its long-term reliability and has been the receiver of choice for MarineTraffic. However, it is typically supplied as a “bare-bones” solution, allowing users to develop custom software to meet their specific needs.

Can the R500Ni log AIS data?

Yes, the R500Ni can log AIS data to internal memory or an external USB stick. However, users will need to write or use existing software to enable this functionality. Comar Systems can provide technical details about data acquisition but does not offer logging software as a service.

What is the internal storage capacity of the R500Ni?

The internal memory depends on the size of the microSD card used. For example, a 16GB microSD card provides approximately 10GB of usable storage after accounting for the operating system and software. For larger storage needs, external USB sticks can be used.

What is the expected file size for AIS data logs?

• Busy port scenario: Approximately 1.6MB per hour of raw AIS data for 80 vessels within a 20-mile radius.
• Maximum theoretical load: Up to 13MB per hour under 100% AIS timeslot utilisation (unlikely in real-world scenarios).

Can AIS data be filtered by range?

Yes, filtering by range is possible but requires additional software that can decode the AIS data. Decoding involves extracting vessel details (e.g., position, MMSI) from the AIS NMEA 0183 “AIVDM” data strings to calculate the range.

Can the R500Ni be powered by a USB power bank?

Yes, the R500Ni can run on a USB power bank via its micro-USB port. With a normal power consumption of ~0.3A, a 10,000mAh power bank could provide up to 30 hours of operation. However, powering the device from a reliable ship’s supply (e.g., mains or 24V) is recommended for long-term use.

What is an alternative solution for AIS data logging?

If you need a quicker evaluation, consider using the R220U AIS receiver. This device connects to a laptop via USB, allowing for data logging with your choice of software. This setup is straightforward and ideal for temporary use.

What are the options for software to log AIS data?

Since the R500Ni is built on an open-source platform (Raspberry Pi), you can find or develop software locally to handle data logging. Many existing packages can log AIS data from the serial port to a USB stick or other storage devices.

Why choose the R500Ni for AIS monitoring?

The R500Ni is a reliable and versatile AIS receiver, ideal for applications such as vessel tracking, coastal monitoring, or data collection campaigns. Its modular design and open-source platform make it highly adaptable to custom requirements.