Smart Chart AIS

[shemandr]

I have put his app on my droid and while some features work others don't. I do get my phone's position on the chart and can see nearby AIS. But, if I try to use the Enhanced Reality feature, all I get is a red box in mid screen. On the left of the box there is lettering saying "Click here for details". Nothing happens when I press there with my fingertip - no click that I know of on a smart phone. What gives?

 

[Joe]

You need to register your boat with MMSI account. Go to BoatUS website for free registration. The AIS apps are internet based, not vhf transmitters. Your boat's information must be in the mmsi database for you to be recognized by others.

 

[shemandr]

I think I am registered as per the process of setting up an account. I can see my phone's position - I don't know if others can see me because I don't know anyone who has the Smart Chart or even AIS.
The feature which doesn't work is the "AR" which stands for Augmented Reality. I'm thinking that feature requires WIFI or more 4G bars than I usually have while on board. I don't know.

 

[Joe]

I think I am registered as per the process of setting up an account. I can see my phone's position - I don't know if others can see me because I don't know anyone who has the Smart Chart or even AIS.
The feature which doesn't work is the "AR" which stands for Augmented Reality. I'm thinking that feature requires WIFI or more 4G bars than I usually have while on board. I don't know.

Have you checked out this group? www.smartchartAIS.com/Forums

I also noticed in the smart chart tutorial that there are a few restrictions for using the AR feature.

Your boat data should be visible to all internet based AIS apps. On my "boat beacon" app, there is an on/off icon that disables data transmission, but allows you to see others. It's a battery saving and privacy feature.

When your app is turn on and transmitting you can be seen by anyone in the world with an internet based AIS device. Tell us your boat name and type, and where to look, and we can see you.

 

[Doc_holiday]

I also use boat beacon. I think a recent change allows you to register without getting an mmsi number but I did get the free one from boat us and no you don't have to be a member to get this.

I have had mixed luck with it but that may be due in part to me running a lot of stuff. I have music connected to a Bluetooth speaker, I run a chart program (iSailor) and boat beacon. You definitely want to have your phone plugged in or it will get hot and battery life will plummet.

Don't forget to update your status to either under sail or motor, number of occupants etc. you can send your link to a landlubber too.