User's Manual

Configuration using proAtoN
Page 37
The transceiver is now configured to report message #21 on channel 1 every 6th minute, and on channel 2
every 6th minute, but offset by three minutes from channel 1. This results in a transmission of message #21
every three minutes on alternating channels. The exact timings of the transmissions within the selected minute
will vary as the transceiver selects available slots using RATDMA.
7.3.5 Virtual AtoN configuration
The transceiver can be configured to transmit position reports for up to five virtual or synthetic Aids to
Navigation. This configuration is carried out using the Virtual AtoN(s) tab in proAtoN. Within this tab there are
sub-tabs relating to each of the five virtual or synthetic AtoNs. The sub-tabs are visible at the left hand edge of
the window. The layout of the virtual AtoN configuration tab is provided in Figure 21.
Figure 21 Virtual AtoN configuration tab layout
The following parameters are required to configure a virtual or synthetic AtoN. Note that the ‘real’ AtoN must
be properly configured in order to make use of the virtual AtoN feature.
Virtual / Synthetic AtoN
Each virtual AtoN required must be separately enabled by checking the ‘Enable’ checkbox. The type of virtual
AtoN can then be selected.
● Virtual AtoN
A virtual AtoN is transmission of message #21 for an Aid to Navigation that does not physically exist.
A virtual AtoN may be used to mark a temporary hazard to navigation, e.g., a wreck. For further
information on the use of virtual AtoNs please refer to IALA A-126, IALA O-143 and IALA guideline
1081.
● Synthetic AtoN
A synthetic AtoN is transmission of message #21 from an AIS station located remotely from the
physical Aid to Navigation. An example of use is to provide an AIS AtoN target for a buoy or mark that
is not capable of supporting AIS AtoN hardware.
Virtual AtoN Details
The basic configuration of a virtual or synthetic AtoN is comparable to that required for a ‘real’ AIS AtoN. Note
that the MMSI number format is different:
● A virtual AtoN MMSI has the format 99MID6XXX, where MID is the appropriate national MID and XXX
is a number unique to this station.
Enable virtual AtoN
and select type
Virtual AtoN subtabs
Virtual AtoN details
Virtual AtoN schedule