Each receiver ships with antennas for both AIS and ADS-B reception. The AIS antenna is a stainless-steel whip with a BNC connector, while the ADS-B/UAT antennas are green fiberglass rods with SMA connectors. Connect each to the matching labeled port on the receiver.

The BNC port handles AIS signals (marine VHF). SMA-1 is typically ADS-B, and SMA-2 is UAT (978 MHz). Ensure each antenna cable matches the connector type and is firmly hand-tightened—no tools required.

Cables and antennas are shipped with your hosting unit, but you may use your own, provided they match the connector types and frequency range. Cables should be low-loss 50 Ω coax rated for the appropriate frequency band. Improper or overly long cables can cause signal loss or prevent the system from transmitting.

Keep the receiver indoors or in a weatherproof enclosure with ventilation. Mount antennas vertically and clear of nearby metal objects. If using outdoor mounts, ensure brackets are secure and cabling has a drip loop to prevent water intrusion.

Hosts provide a standard indoor power outlet and an active internet connection through a router or switch. MotionInfo supplies the power adapter and Ethernet cable needed for connection. The unit draws very little power and should remain plugged in at all times.

Most receivers send data to our network every few minutes.  You can enter your 4 digit box number in the Check Your Status form on this page or use the "Help" chat accessed from the icon on any of our webpages. If your site shows as “Down” in our system or the indicator light on the receiver is off, it means the unit isn’t communicating.

A steady green or blue light inside the unit (see through holes in sides) indicates power and active communication. A blinking or dark light usually means a power or network issue. If no lights appear at all, verify the power adapter is connected and the outlet is live.

Start with the basics: confirm power to the outlet, check that the small LED on the box is lit, and make sure both ends of the Ethernet cable are firmly connected. If possible, plug the cable directly into a router or switch instead of a wall jack.

Unplug the power adapter from the wall for about ten seconds, then plug it back in. Wait three to five minutes for the system to re-establish its network link. You should see the indicator light return to normal.

Try disconnecting the suspect coax cable and attach the small backup or “test” antenna directly to the port on the box. If data returns after that, the coax is likely defective. Make sure all connectors are snug, dry, and corrosion-free before replacing anything.

Standard outbound web access is sufficient. If your network uses a firewall, allow normal outbound connections on ports 80 and 443. No special configuration is usually required.

The small receiver box is part of the national AIS and ADS-B monitoring network operated by MotionInfo. It provides vessel and aircraft signal coverage for nearby waters or airspace. You can use the form to confirm whether you wish to continue hosting or return the unit.

Include the current and correct address in the form comment field, along with any contact changes. Accurate location data ensures your station is mapped correctly in our system.

When a replacement is authorized, MotionInfo ships a pre-tested receiver with a prepaid return label. Simply plug in the new unit using your existing cables, place the old one in the same box, and drop it off with the return carrier. MotionInfo covers all shipping costs.

Enter your preferred shipping address in the same form or mention it when speaking with support. We verify all addresses before sending any new equipment.

Please return any unused or duplicate receivers using a prepaid label provided by MotionInfo. Returned units are re-tested and redeployed to other locations to strengthen network coverage.