Electronics: The Em-Trak X100 turns your smartphone into a VHF radio, including AIS transponder

We've all been there: the radio is installed in the corner of the sat nav, but a microphone directly at the helm would be much more practical for communicating with the lock. The X100 from Em-Trak solves this problem by using an app to turn any smartphone or smartwatch into a radio microphone. An AIS transponder is also on board.

Smartphone as a wireless microphone

The Connect-X app for iOS and Android turns smartphones and smartwatches into wireless steering microphones for the X100. This allows users to send and receive radio calls from anywhere on board, monitor VHF/DSC communication, keep an eye on AIS traffic and receive navigation warnings. The system can be seamlessly integrated into the on-board WLAN.

At the same time, the X100 enables private crew intercom for all connected Connect-X devices. The function runs independently of the VHF radio and ensures interference-free internal tuning without occupying the radio channels. In the event of MOB alarms or AIS-PLB signals, all paired mobile devices receive immediate warning messages - including clear rescue instructions.

AIS Class B with SOTDMA method

The X100 contains a class B AIS transceiver with five watts of transmission power that operates using the modern SOTDMA method. A mute mode with automatic timer allows the AIS transmission to be switched off temporarily, for example during anchor manoeuvres in crowded bays. The system has a lossless VHF antenna splitter so that one antenna can be used for both AIS and VHF.
The DSC functionality includes safety, urgency and distress calls as well as direct dialling communication with AIS targets. A standardised phone book combines DSC, AIS and intercom contacts. The X100 streams AIS data to navigation apps and supports NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 for connection to chart plotters and other on-board systems.

Clear wave audio for good communication

The X100 uses a clear-wave digital audio system for voice transmission, which, according to the manufacturer, ensures clear communication even in noisy environments. The internal loudspeaker delivers five watts of output power; external loudspeakers or a megaphone system with 15 watts can be connected as an option. The full-colour display should be readable in sunlight and the controls should also be operable with gloves or in wet conditions. The Em-Trak X100 is available in Germany from Ferropilot and costs around 1,900 euros.

Technical data

• Dimensions (LxWxH): 249 x 162 x 84 mm
• VHF channels: INT, USA, CAN, ATIS
• FM power: 25 W (high), 1 W (low)
• AIS power: 5 W
• AIS procedure: Class B, SOTDMA
• Power supply: 9.6-31.2 volts
• Two or three-channel monitoring
• Direct dialling for AIS destinations
• Lossless VHF antenna splitter
• Silent mode with timer (AIS)
• Integrated GPS (external antenna optional)

Interfaces

• WLAN: IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
• Bluetooth: 4.2 (Classic and BLE)
• NMEA 0183: IEC 61162-1
• NMEA 2000: Ed 3.101, IEC 61162-3

App functions (Connect-X):

• Wireless radio microphone (iOS/Android/Smartwatch)
• Private crew intercom
• MOB and AIS PLB alarms with rescue instructions
• AIS traffic monitoring
• Remote control VHF/DSC

More articles on this topic

• AIS, VHF and monitoring system in one device
• Market overview of AIS transponders - See and be seen
• Marine radio for sailors: The 10 best tips for radio beginners
• Keeping an overview thanks to AIS - what is important when operating devices