Both AIS devices and VHF radios use VHF antennas to transmit and receive data. Most smaller vessels either do not have the capacity, or owners the need, for a second VHF antenna. This means that an antenna splitter needs to be used to ensure there is no loss of data, and the antenna is managed in the correct way.

Antenna splitters offer a cost effective way to ensure the antenna is managed efficiently.

The antenna splitter monitors which device is using the VHF antenna and ensures it has access to transmit or receive. Most antenna splitters on the market ensure there is no signal loss when power fails on the vessel, and gives priority to the VHF radio over the AIS device.