IEC 61097-14:2010

Overview

IEC 61097-14:2010 specifies minimum operational and performance requirements, technical characteristics, methods of testing, and required test results for AIS search and rescue transmitters (AIS‑SARTs). It applies to AIS‑SART equipment carried by ships as required by Chapters III and IV of the SOLAS Convention and takes account of IMO resolution A.694(17). The standard is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) family and is associated with IEC 60945.

Key topics and technical requirements

IEC 61097-14:2010 covers both functional design and rigorous type‑approval tests. Major technical topics include:

• Performance requirements
  • Operational behaviour in active and test modes
  • Range performance and environment-specific criteria
  • Transmission scheduling and message content (e.g., Message 1 and Message 14)
• Technical/functional blocks
  • TDMA transmitter (AIS Tx), controller, timing/synchronisation device
  • Battery system (capacity, expiry date, reverse‑polarity protection)
  • Electronic position fixing system (EPFS), activator and user indicator
• Physical and link layer requirements
  • Transmitter characteristics, modulation and slotted transmission parameters
  • Medium access control (MAC), data link service and link management entities
• Testing methods and required results
  • Physical radio tests: frequency error, conducted/radiated power, spurious emissions, modulation accuracy, power vs time
  • Link layer tests: synchronisation accuracy, active/test mode message timing and content
  • Preparation, normal and extreme test conditions, standard test signals, artificial antenna (dummy load)
• Documentation and marking
  • Labelling, manuals and user information required for safe operation and maintenance

Practical applications and users

IEC 61097-14:2010 is used for ensuring AIS‑SARTs reliably support maritime search and rescue operations. Typical users include:

• Equipment manufacturers - design and validate AIS‑SART hardware and firmware to meet type‑approval criteria
• Type‑approval and test laboratories - perform specified physical and link layer tests and certify compliance
• Flag state administrations and classification societies - evaluate equipment for SOLAS compliance and approval
• Shipowners and procurement teams - select compliant AIS‑SART devices and verify documentation, battery lifecycle and labelling
• Search and rescue agencies and maritime safety officers - understand operational behaviour and limitations for SAR planning

Related standards

• IEC 60945 (general maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment requirements) - associated environmental and EMC guidance
• IMO resolution A.694(17) - operational context for AIS‑SART use under SOLAS

Keywords: IEC 61097-14:2010, AIS‑SART, GMDSS, SOLAS, AIS search and rescue transmitter, performance requirements, type‑approval testing, maritime safety.