SI-TEX MDA-5H 5W SOTDMA Class B+ AIS Transceiver with Built-In Antenna Splitter
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SI-TEX MDA-5H 5W SOTDMA Class B+ AIS Transceiver with Built-In Antenna Splitter
Description
The SI-TEX MDA-5H is the world's most sophisticated fully certified 5-Watt SOTDMA Class B AIS transceiver, designed for mariners who demand maximum visibility on the water. Unlike standard Class B units, its SOTDMA Class A transmission priorities ensure your vessel is always seen - even in the most congested commercial harbors and busy shipping lanes. With a built-in zero-loss VHF antenna splitter, installation is streamlined and no second antenna is required.
Packed with professional-grade features including a 72-channel GPS/GLONASS receiver, galvanic isolated USB connection, and an automatic Voyage Data Recorder function, the MDA-5H delivers true commercial-class performance in a compact, waterproof package. Whether you're outfitting a recreational cruiser or a commercial vessel, the MDA-5H offers the connectivity, reliability, and certified performance to keep your crew safe and your vessel visible at the longest possible range.
Key Features
- 5-Watt SOTDMA Transmitter: Higher output power means your vessel is visible at greater ranges by other ships and via AIS tracking websites.
- SOTDMA Class A Priorities: Your vessel always transmits and remains visible in heavily congested commercial harbors and ports where traditional Class B units lose network priority.
- Built-In Zero-Loss VHF Antenna Splitter: Integrated splitter eliminates the need for a second VHF antenna, simplifying installation significantly.
- 72-Channel GPS & GLONASS Receiver: Hi-resolution built-in satellite navigation receiver for precise positioning at all times.
- Dual Antenna Options: Standard package includes both an internal GPS antenna and an external GPS antenna, suited for commercial vessel installations.
- NMEA-0183 & NMEA-2000 Connectivity: Intelligent connectivity to all bridge systems for seamless integration with existing marine electronics.
- Galvanic Isolated USB Connection: Protects your transponder and any connected PC from electrical faults and ground loops.
- Automatic VDR Function: Voyage Data Recorder automatically saves the previous 30 days of voyage data without any manual action required.
- Dual Receivers: Decodes all DSC and AIS messages including MOB (Man Overboard) and SART distress signals.
- IPX7 Waterproof Certified: Built tough to handle the marine environment.
- Certified & Approved: IEC-62287-2, FCC, USCG certified, and Industry Canada approved. Backed by a 2-year warranty.
Shipping
Ships free! Please email us at service@omahasportsandgames.com for a delivery ETA or to confirm shipping details.
What's Included
- MDA-5H SOTDMA Class B+ AIS Transceiver
- Internal GPS Antenna
- External GPS Antenna (for commercial vessel installations)
Why You'll Love It
The MDA-5H is trusted by commercial and serious recreational mariners who refuse to compromise on safety or visibility. Its 5-watt SOTDMA transmission ensures you're always seen - even in the most crowded waterways where standard Class B units fall short. The integrated antenna splitter, dual GPS/GLONASS receiver, and automatic voyage data recording make it one of the most feature-complete AIS transceivers available at any price point. Built to meet IEC, FCC, USCG, and Industry Canada standards, it's a unit you can count on in real-world conditions. Backed by a 2-year warranty and engineered for years of dependable use, the MDA-5H is a smart, long-term investment in your vessel's safety system.
Product Specifications
View Product Specs
| Transmit Power | 5 Watts |
|---|---|
| AIS Class | Class B+ (SOTDMA) |
| GPS/GLONASS Receiver | Hi-Resolution 72 Channel |
| Antenna Splitter | Built-in, Zero Loss VHF |
| Data Ports | NMEA-0183, NMEA-2000 |
| USB Connection | Galvanic Isolated |
| VDR Function | Automatic - saves previous 30 days of voyage data |
| Receivers | Dual - decodes DSC, AIS, MOB, SART |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX7 |
| Wi-Fi | Not included (w/o Wi-Fi model) |
| Certifications | IEC-62287-2, FCC, USCG, Industry Canada |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
Manuals & Guides
FAQ
What is the difference between SOTDMA Class B and standard Class B AIS?
Standard Class B AIS uses CSTDMA (Carrier Sense Time Division Multiple Access), which means it must wait for a clear slot to transmit and can be bumped off in congested areas. SOTDMA (Self-Organized TDMA) - the same protocol used by Class A commercial units - reserves time slots in advance, guaranteeing your vessel always transmits and remains visible even in the busiest harbors and shipping lanes. The MDA-5H uses SOTDMA, giving it a significant safety advantage over conventional Class B devices.
Do I need a separate VHF antenna for the AIS transceiver?
No. The MDA-5H features a built-in zero-loss VHF antenna splitter, which allows it to share your existing VHF antenna without any signal degradation. This simplifies installation considerably and saves the cost and complexity of running a second antenna cable.
What does the Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) function do?
The automatic VDR function continuously logs and saves your vessel's voyage data for the previous 30 days without any manual input required. This data can be invaluable for reviewing routes, speeds, and positions - or in the event of an incident investigation.
Is this the Wi-Fi version of the MDA-5?
No. The MDA-5H (this model) does not include Wi-Fi. If you require wireless connectivity to a phone or tablet, SI-TEX offers a Wi-Fi enabled variant of the MDA-5 series. Please contact us if you need help selecting the right model.
Is the MDA-5H approved for use in the United States?
Yes. The MDA-5H is fully certified to IEC-62287-2 standards and holds FCC and USCG approvals, making it legal and approved for use on US-flagged vessels. It is also approved by Industry Canada for Canadian waters.
Thank you for trusting us with your order! This product is shipped directly from the manufacturing warehouse to get to customers all over the U.S. as soon as possible!
While many of our products are prepared and shipped out within 48 hours, some of our items are built to order or require custom pieces that could take 2-6 weeks to prepare before shipping! Please contact us at 888-884-2234 for a delivery ETA if you have a strict timeline.
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Omaha Sports & Games Team
We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase. To start a return, you can contact us at service@omahasportsandgames.com.
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Items opened, tested, used, or any other non-new condition may be eligible for return based on the manufacturer's return policy.
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Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, such as custom products, special orders or personalized items. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.
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