AIS base stations are shore side monitoring stations that pick up AIS data from devices within it's range. Although they are situated on dry land, they behave just like any normal AIS device, both transmitting and receiving data. Base stations play a major role in national security, forming a chain of AIS receivers along the coastline. This chain is able to monitor vessels that are sailing through the waterways and alert authorities if any potential threats approach the coast before they reach dry land.

Base stations also offer a central hub for any aids to navigation that maybe within range. AtoNs using FATDMA have their transmission timing controlled by AIS base stations. Base stations also offer a link from command centres further inland to the vessels themselves, allowing authorities to monitor traffic, carry out metrological and hydrological testing and also react to emergencies.

When purchasing a base station, you need to consider:

• Interfaces
• Inputs and outputs
• The ability to manage AtoNs
• It's range