Automatic Identification System (AIS) using GNU Radio

Here is a block which contains algorithms to decode AIS signals used by ships to navigate.

You can download the code here: ais-tools-gnuradio-1.0.2.tar.gz. (For a standalone application you can also check out: GNU AIS).

Currently it only decodes "type 1, 4 and 5" messages. But there should be little problem adding other message types. Message type 1 is for position data from ships and type 4 is for position data and correct UTC time from base stations along the coast. Message type 5 is for ship info and destination. For info on the AIS-protocol look at: http://www.uais.org/DownloadLibrary.htm

The block also contains a simple server which provides Google Earth with position data. So that you can see the ships' position there.

To let Google Earth be aware of it, you will have to choose Add--Network Link and write http://localhost:12350 in the "Link"-field, and change 12350 to the port number you specify when using the block. You should also under the Refresh-tag choose a refresh-interval of a couple of seconds.