AIS vessel tracking and monitoring service, BigOceanData Online, has compiled a comprehensive handbook on AIS which covers a wide range of topics from specific AIS units to getting the most out of the data gathered. The guide also includes some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the topic.
The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a worldwide automatic positioning system based on fitting small transponders to vessels that continuously transmits a signal. This alerts other vessels and shore stations with AIS receivers to the presence of that vessel. The position information is supplemented with additional information about the vessel.