Digital Yacht’s Nomad 2 is a new, portable AIS transponder designed for maritime users who move from boat to boat – charter skippers, delivery crew, pilots or boat owners looking for a zero install AIS system. It’s a full function Class B unit so AIS data is transmitted with current vessel identity and position information as well as receiving other local AIS traffic. It has a wireless interface so is designed to be used in conjunction with an iPad, tablet, PC or MAC and is compatible with 100s apps including Navionics, NavLINK, AquaMap, TimeZero etc. Both AIS and GPS positioning data are available so there’s no need for a device with internal GPS.Portability is key so it uses a USB power interface allowing it to take power from portable battery packs, USB outlets or even a simple cigarette lighter-USB adaptor. It’s also supplied with a compact combination GPS-VHF antenna so can be used on larger vessels where an internal GPS signal may be shielded. The USB connection also can provide AIS data for a PC or MAC setup. Configuration and programming is simple thanks to its wireless interface – simply connect via a phone or tablet, open the browser and the unit can be programmed with vessel identity information. The same interface can be used for diagnostics and to silence the transmissions if required. No specialist software or apps are required.Nomad 2 is priced at 1074€ inc VAT and is available now. There’s also a free app (iAIS) available for simple target displays. Further information at digitalyacht.eu.com