A number of manufacturers are now offering AIS class B transponders

Seems all have RS 232 interfaces for the PC. Seems strange that all the new gear uses a quasi obsolete interface. Of couse RS232 to USB conversion units abound, but that is one more box, more $$$$, a few wires and something else for a vendor to point the finger at when thngs do not work as advertised.

Comments from sailors with first-hand experience with an AIS Class B woudl be welcome