A software-defined radio implementation of maritime AIS
Date
2007-12
Authors
Mathapo, Kgabo Frans
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
SumbandilaSat is the second South African satellite, and is scheduled to be launched in
April/May 2007. A software defined radio (SDR) automatic identification system (AIS)
receiver is proposed as a possible experimental payload for this satellite. The AIS receiver can
be used to track and store movement of ships at sea, and then forward this information to the
ground station upon request. This thesis demonstrates the design of a SDR AIS receiver for
Sumbandila satellite. The design of a GMSK/FMmodem as used in AIS is presented. Models
are developed and simulated in Matlab. Digital signal processing algorithms developed for
the AIS receiver are highlighted. Algorithms are developed to decode and translate the AIS
encapsulated binary messages. The models are transferred to C++ and the AIS receiver is
implemented on the SDR architecture. Finally the real time performance of the AIS receiver
is presented along with some test results and performance analysis.
Description
Thesis (MScEng (Electrical and Electronic Engineering))--University of Stellenbosch, 2007.
Keywords
Ships -- Automatic identification systems, Software radio, Dissertations -- Electronic engineering, Theses -- Electronic engineering