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How to Enter the MMSI Number and Other Details to a Vesper Marine® Transponder

FCC Compliance Notice : In the USA it is prohibited for any person other than the manufacturer or the installing dealer to input an MMSI number. It is a violation of the rules of the FCC to input an MMSI number that has not been properly assigned to the user, or to otherwise input any inaccurate data in this device.


An MMSI number is required before an AIS Transponder can send messages on the AIS network. 

If a Vesper Marine® transponder wasn't preprogrammed by the dealer, it must have a valid MMSI number. The transponder will work in receive-only mode until the MMSI and vessel details are entered.

Ways to enter the MMSI into the transponder:

  • Cortex® Hub M1-USA models:

    • Must be programmed by an authorized Vesper® representative

    • Remote programming (with software version 1.6 or higher) Cortex® MMSI Programming Form via the Cortex Cloud connection or a Vesper Secure Message (.vsm) file can be sent to the user without a strong cloud connection

  • Cortex® M1 Hub-ROW models:

    • Outside of the U.S. can be programmed directly from the Cortex Handset or Cortex Onboard™ app

    • Alternatively, a dealer may also do this remotely via the Cortex Cloud

  • All AIS WatchMate® and XB 6000/8000  transponders

    • Must be programmed by a certified installer in the U.S. to comply with FCC regulations

    • Outside of the U.S. customers may use vmAIS configuration and status utility software

Never use an unassigned or false MMSI (this is illegal in most countries). Be certain you enter the MMSI carefully. The MMSI cannot be changed once it has been entered without contacting a dealer or Vesper Marine.

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