📡 Enhanced Connectivity with Wireless AIS Receiver: QK-A026 with GPS and NMEA Support Review

I have two of them now - they work 99.99% without any complaints; Sometimes the data string is garbled, but it can be 1 in 5000, and it's easy to spot when this happens - most applications won't notice.

Now I have two of these - they work 99.99% of the time; Sometimes the data string is garbled, but it can be 1 in 5000, and it's easy to spot when this happens - most applications won't notice.

When I first connected the NMEA 0183 antenna there was no GPS signal so I tried two other active GPS antennas; still no signal. Then I discovered that there are two (2) different versions of the tweak tool. The latter allows the user to activate the GPS function. Problem solved.

This is a great little product. Does exactly as described. It receives the AIS channels A and B as well as GPS. Sends NMEA output over both RS422 and Wi-Fi. Integrates perfectly with Open Plotter, OpenCPN, Boating HD and most other plotting applications. If I had any complaints, I wish it had a built-in 12 volt input instead of having to add an extra accessory.

As a *simple* WiFi AIS receiver this is a great device and great value. But the real magic of this device is that it's also a NEMA A0183 multiplexer. With the right settings, not only can you receive AIS targets and external GPS on your tablet, you can also receive NEMA 0183 data, just like you would from a fish finder. No tools other than a tablet with this device are required for my use. No need for an expensive and quickly obsolete MFD. No need for proprietary adapters and cables. I think…