For communications on the water, Marine VHF Radio with access to Channel 16 or DSC is the standard.
Whether it's VHF, PMR (personal mobile radio) Two-Way Radios or Marine Band, there is a range of radio sets, hands-free kits, spare parts and accessories to keep you in touch while at sea.
The VHF radios divide into two main categories, handheld devices and fixed sets.
Handheld VHF radios work in virtually the same way as their fixed-mounted equivalents and share many of the features. Manufacturers often follow the same operating protocols to help users who use both types regularly.
The smaller size and portability of a handheld can be a benefit, especially in an emergency situation such as a fire onboard. A handheld unit also is independent of the vessel's main power source and normal antenna.
Disadvantages relate to the power output and battery life.
So a handheld VHF is most suitable for small vessels without their own main battery source and for use as an emergency back-up or as additional radios for crewmen in tenders or dinghies.
For vessels with battery power, a fixed mounted radio is usually the best choice with some models having waterproof fascias allowing secure installation in open boats such as RIBs.
The controls are normally larger and easier to use with a large LCD display and a fixed mounted radio also offers a much higher maximum power output.
Although the basic radio functions are the same as handheld radios, the use of DSC in fixed mounted radios means only a single SOS distress button needs to be pressed in the event of emergency.
The Icom IC-M87 Handheld VHF Radio is a compact, waterproof VHF PBR/Marine Handheld unit from a company dedicated to producing high-quality and reliable marine communications equipment with an emphasis on maintaining the balance between advanced radio technology and human interaction.
Designed with particular emphasis on commercial use, the Icom IC-M87 is a high-class business marine handheld that meets both marine and simple Private Business Radio (PBR) applications (appropriate licence required).
Compact and with a tough construction, the IC-M87 meets military standard requirements (MIL-STD) and is built to the same waterproof standard employed by the IC-M1EuroV and IC-M21.
The Icom IC-M87 can be used for both marine and basic PBR applications. A simple push of a button changes the operating band between marine and PBR channels. Up to 22 free channels are available for land use (146 V174 MHz). Wide/narrow channel spacing is programmable for each channel and CTCSS and DTCS signalling is built in.
Although aimed at commercial users, the IC-M87 is ideal for leisure boat users who want a premium-quality compact transceiver. The IC-M87 has an abundance of standard features including dual and triple watch, tag and priority scanning, an adjustable button-beep tone level, signal-strength indicator, sub-channel display and battery indicator.
All controls are large and easy to use and have been carefully designed and positioned to provide the simplest of user interfaces at all times on land or sea. Even when wearing gloves, the large buttons are easy to operate. In addition a large, clear backlit LCD and backlit buttons provide instant recognition of data and ensure reliable communication in any lighting conditions.
The IC-M87 comes with the BP-227 Li-ion battery pack as standard. The battery's 1700 mAh capacity allows longer battery life; a maximum of 15 hours’ operation without memory effect of the battery. An optional AA alkaline battery case, BP-226, provides a convenient back-up and great reassurance in an emergency. The IC-M87 has a powerful output power of 5 watts ensuring the reliability of your communication with the standard battery pack, even over long distances. To save on battery consumption, the user can reduce the output power to 3 or 1 W.
Coming with an extended 3-year warranty available, the IC-M87 is supplied with the BC-152 Slow Battery Charger, BC-01 Charger Adapter, BP-227 Li-Ion Battery Pack, FA-S59V antenna, MB-79 Belt Clip and Handbook. The BC-152 desktop charger can also be mounted on a wall and will accept various power sources such an AC adapter, cigarette lighter lead or DC power supply.
The Icom IC-M87 has a wide range of optional accessories available, including the HM-138 waterproof speaker microphone. The optional rapid desktop charger BC-119N and multi-charger BC-121N are also available to charge the IC-M87 in 2.5 hours (AD-100 charger adapter is required).
Features and Specification
The Garmin 300i Black Box VHF Marine Receiver combines radio communications and 1 or 25 watts of transmit power with multi-station support to give you the flexibility and convenience you need to safely navigate and communicate on the open waters.
The VHF 300i comes standard with a two-way hailer system and is also NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 compliant to offer greater onboard functionality.
The VHF 300i is also equipped with a two-way 30-watt hailer system for communication with other boats or deckhands. In addition, the VHF 300i has a patent-pending voicemail feature that lets you pre-record a 15-second message and deliver the message to any Digital Selective Calling radio. You'll also have the ability to replay the last 90 seconds of any incoming voice transmission at the touch of a button.
The VHF 300i is operated via the GHS handset microphone that allows full radio control from a remote location. The GHS 10 features a crisp 2-inch LCD display, dedicated rotary key for frequent tasks and three soft buttons for dynamic controls. The VHF 300i used the supplied 4-inch active speaker with volume knob, the built-in speaker on the GHS 10 or an optional third-party passive speaker.
With a space-saving black box configuration, you'll be able to mount the VHF 300i wherever you choose. And, with multi-station support, you can add the wired GHS 10 handset microphones throughout your vessel without having to add existing receivers. The system can also be used as an on-boat intercom if you have multiple stations abroad your vessels.
The Garmin VHF 300i provides full NOAA weather alerts and class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capability via NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000 connectivity. Should trouble arise, DSC provides distress calls with the push of a button. And if your boat is already interfaced with a compatible GPS chartplotter, you'll get mayday signalling and a digital broadcast of your boat's position. The VHF 300i also features Position Tracking, which allows a mariner to locate and keep tabs on up to three other boats in the area.
Specification
Whether it's VHF, PMR (personal mobile radio) Two-Way Radios or Marine Band, there is a range of radio sets, hands-free kits, spare parts and accessories to keep you in touch while at sea.
The VHF radios divide into two main categories, handheld devices and fixed sets.
Handheld VHF radios work in virtually the same way as their fixed-mounted equivalents and share many of the features. Manufacturers often follow the same operating protocols to help users who use both types regularly.
The smaller size and portability of a handheld can be a benefit, especially in an emergency situation such as a fire onboard. A handheld unit also is independent of the vessel's main power source and normal antenna.
Disadvantages relate to the power output and battery life.
So a handheld VHF is most suitable for small vessels without their own main battery source and for use as an emergency back-up or as additional radios for crewmen in tenders or dinghies.
For vessels with battery power, a fixed mounted radio is usually the best choice with some models having waterproof fascias allowing secure installation in open boats such as RIBs.
The controls are normally larger and easier to use with a large LCD display and a fixed mounted radio also offers a much higher maximum power output.
Although the basic radio functions are the same as handheld radios, the use of DSC in fixed mounted radios means only a single SOS distress button needs to be pressed in the event of emergency.
The Icom IC-M87 Handheld VHF Radio is a compact, waterproof VHF PBR/Marine Handheld unit from a company dedicated to producing high-quality and reliable marine communications equipment with an emphasis on maintaining the balance between advanced radio technology and human interaction.
Designed with particular emphasis on commercial use, the Icom IC-M87 is a high-class business marine handheld that meets both marine and simple Private Business Radio (PBR) applications (appropriate licence required).
Compact and with a tough construction, the IC-M87 meets military standard requirements (MIL-STD) and is built to the same waterproof standard employed by the IC-M1EuroV and IC-M21.
The Icom IC-M87 can be used for both marine and basic PBR applications. A simple push of a button changes the operating band between marine and PBR channels. Up to 22 free channels are available for land use (146 V174 MHz). Wide/narrow channel spacing is programmable for each channel and CTCSS and DTCS signalling is built in.
Although aimed at commercial users, the IC-M87 is ideal for leisure boat users who want a premium-quality compact transceiver. The IC-M87 has an abundance of standard features including dual and triple watch, tag and priority scanning, an adjustable button-beep tone level, signal-strength indicator, sub-channel display and battery indicator.
All controls are large and easy to use and have been carefully designed and positioned to provide the simplest of user interfaces at all times on land or sea. Even when wearing gloves, the large buttons are easy to operate. In addition a large, clear backlit LCD and backlit buttons provide instant recognition of data and ensure reliable communication in any lighting conditions.
The IC-M87 comes with the BP-227 Li-ion battery pack as standard. The battery's 1700 mAh capacity allows longer battery life; a maximum of 15 hours’ operation without memory effect of the battery. An optional AA alkaline battery case, BP-226, provides a convenient back-up and great reassurance in an emergency. The IC-M87 has a powerful output power of 5 watts ensuring the reliability of your communication with the standard battery pack, even over long distances. To save on battery consumption, the user can reduce the output power to 3 or 1 W.
Coming with an extended 3-year warranty available, the IC-M87 is supplied with the BC-152 Slow Battery Charger, BC-01 Charger Adapter, BP-227 Li-Ion Battery Pack, FA-S59V antenna, MB-79 Belt Clip and Handbook. The BC-152 desktop charger can also be mounted on a wall and will accept various power sources such an AC adapter, cigarette lighter lead or DC power supply.
The Icom IC-M87 has a wide range of optional accessories available, including the HM-138 waterproof speaker microphone. The optional rapid desktop charger BC-119N and multi-charger BC-121N are also available to charge the IC-M87 in 2.5 hours (AD-100 charger adapter is required).
Features and Specification
- Rugged, compact and lightweight body (280 g with battery pack)
- Standard Li-ion battery pack (7.2 V/1700 mAh)
- PBR mode (146-174 MHz) with 22 free programmable channels
- Waterproof construction
- CTCSS/DTCS tone signalling standard in PBR mode
- Optional waterproof speaker microphone, HM-138
- Dual/Triple watch in marine mode
- Ergonomic key layout for simple operation
- Optional battery case (AA (R6) x 5 cell type)
- Extended 3-year warranty available
- Switchable wide/narrow channel spacing for both marine/PBR channels
- Monitor function
- Self-check function checks temperature, battery voltage and water intrusion
- Channel 16 and Channel 9 instant access
- Simple up/down switches for channel selection
- Four-step battery indicator
- Beep sound is selectable for each button
- High-speed cloning (19,200 bps) between PC and transceiver
- Normal, priority and tag scanning with auto-scan start function
- 99930 TRON TR20 GMDSS, complete main unit with lithium battery, wrist strap, antenna and operator's manual
- 99920 RCH-20 Dual slot charger 12-24 V DC including DC cable
- 80080 AC adaptor for RCH-20, 220 V AC Euro style (2 pin)
- 80081 AC adaptor for RCH-20, 220 V AC UK style (3 pin)
- 80059 NiMH battery 7.2 V/1500 mAh
- A compact portable VHF radio transceiver with a strong, high-impact polycarbonate case with 'designed-in' physical characteristics easily seen and felt
- Lightest and smallest known in the market
- Large high-contrast back-lit graphic display, logical operation tactile keyboard, a choice of batteries and two-slot charger
- Born of Jotron’s 35-year development, field and manufacture experience
- Backed by Jotron’s worldwide sales and service network
- 19 simplex channels
- The batteries are reverse-polarity protected and fused
- Lithium battery included
- Complete with all GMDSS channels including channel 16
- Waterproof to IP67
- Digital display and keys are back lit to facilitate ease of operation in all light conditions
- Complies to ETS 300 225 and IMO/SOLAS/GMDSS regulations
- MED approved
- Wrist strap included
The Garmin 300i Black Box VHF Marine Receiver combines radio communications and 1 or 25 watts of transmit power with multi-station support to give you the flexibility and convenience you need to safely navigate and communicate on the open waters.
The VHF 300i comes standard with a two-way hailer system and is also NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 compliant to offer greater onboard functionality.
The VHF 300i is also equipped with a two-way 30-watt hailer system for communication with other boats or deckhands. In addition, the VHF 300i has a patent-pending voicemail feature that lets you pre-record a 15-second message and deliver the message to any Digital Selective Calling radio. You'll also have the ability to replay the last 90 seconds of any incoming voice transmission at the touch of a button.
The VHF 300i is operated via the GHS handset microphone that allows full radio control from a remote location. The GHS 10 features a crisp 2-inch LCD display, dedicated rotary key for frequent tasks and three soft buttons for dynamic controls. The VHF 300i used the supplied 4-inch active speaker with volume knob, the built-in speaker on the GHS 10 or an optional third-party passive speaker.
With a space-saving black box configuration, you'll be able to mount the VHF 300i wherever you choose. And, with multi-station support, you can add the wired GHS 10 handset microphones throughout your vessel without having to add existing receivers. The system can also be used as an on-boat intercom if you have multiple stations abroad your vessels.
The Garmin VHF 300i provides full NOAA weather alerts and class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capability via NMEA 0183 or NMEA 2000 connectivity. Should trouble arise, DSC provides distress calls with the push of a button. And if your boat is already interfaced with a compatible GPS chartplotter, you'll get mayday signalling and a digital broadcast of your boat's position. The VHF 300i also features Position Tracking, which allows a mariner to locate and keep tabs on up to three other boats in the area.
Specification
- Extra-large 3.2-inch full dot matrix display
- Class D DSC capable
- Position tracking
- Position request
- Up to 25 watts of transmit power
- Dedicated Channel 16 button
- Fog horn capabilities
- ATIS capable
- NMEA 0183 interface
- NMEA 2000 interface
- Speaker/microphone relocation capability
- Supports GHS 10i wired microphone
- 20W hailer function
- Intercom capabilities
- Display: 1 x 1.8 (2.6 x 4.6 cm) LCD channel/function display with backlighting
- 25 watts transmit power, 1 watt low power mode
- Full DSC Class D/SC-101 automatic distress operation with high-resolution position polling and group calling via NMEA 0183 output to chartplotters
- Immediate GPS boat position and time when connected to a compatible GPS chartplotter
- Channel naming
- Weather alert
- Six tactile microphone keys with WX key, powerful speaker and easy left- or right-handed control
- Rotary channel control with press to enter
- Super-large 16/9 calling channel key
- Three favourites channel mode with scan
- Local/distant feature eliminates interference
- Selectable dual and tri-watch modes
- 3W external speaker and GPS interface jacks
- Case and microphone fully waterproof (JIS 7 submersible)
- All available USA, Canadian, international and 10 weather marine channels with channel naming
- Flush-mount kit and dust cover included
- 12 V DC operation
- Solid reliability