em-trak I100-X Small Vessel Tracker

The em-trak I100-X Small Vessel Tracker is a Class B AIS transceiver purpose-built for recreational boaters and commercial operators running vessels under 65 feet. Anyone who has spent time on the water knows that safety and situational awareness are non-negotiable—especially in congested waterways, shipping lanes, or during reduced visibility. This compact marine transponder broadcasts your vessel's identity, position, course, and speed to other AIS-equipped vessels and shore-based monitoring stations, while simultaneously receiving AIS data from nearby traffic. Unlike larger Class A systems designed for commercial shipping, the I100-X offers the same life-saving functionality in a lightweight, power-efficient package ideal for center consoles, bay boats, and cruising sailboats where space and electrical budget matter.

The em-trak I100-X operates on 12/24-volt DC power and integrates seamlessly with existing marine electronics via standard NMEA 0183 connections, making retrofit installation straightforward on most modern vessel networks. Weighing just 1 pound, the transceiver uses minimal electrical draw compared to Class A alternatives, preserving onboard power for other critical systems. The Class B transmission protocol is recognized globally by maritime authorities and commercial traffic, ensuring your vessel appears on radar screens and navigation displays throughout U.S. coastal waters and internationally. The unit's robust design withstands the corrosive marine environment, with all connections sealed against salt spray and moisture intrusion. Real-time AIS reception allows your chartplotter or dedicated AIS display to render surrounding vessel tracks, target vectors, and collision risk information in seconds.

Boaters operating in high-traffic areas—coastal passages, approaches to major ports, or busy shipping channels—benefit most from Class B AIS, as the system reduces collision risk and provides advance warning of approaching commercial traffic. The em-trak I100-X works equally well on fresh or saltwater, making it suitable for Great Lakes cruising, Gulf Coast fishing trips, or coastal New England summers. Installation requires a GPS input (from your vessel's existing GPS or chartplotter), a VHF antenna connection, and a 12/24V power source; most modern boats already have these components in place. For skippers who want VHF radio capability plus AIS in one marine radio, confirm your existing VHF model supports AIS integration before purchasing this transponder-only unit. Class B AIS registration with the FCC is mandatory before operation, but the setup process is straightforward and typically completed online in minutes.