Icom UK launched the world's first VHF/DSCs with integrated AIS (Automatic Identification System) receiver at the Collins Stewart London Boat Show.
Both the IC-M603 and IC-M505 VHF/DSCs offer integrated AIS receivers - an innovation providing a way for boat owners to receive AIS information from just a single unit.
This new integrated solution provides a range of essential features, VHF, DSC, hailer and foghorn capability and now AIS receiver - all in one unit. In addition, both units can be controlled by a Commandmic for extra flexibility.
Each radio comes, as standard, with a cable which simply connects to your PC or compatible chart plotter and then you will be able to display AIS equipped vessels over your cartography and work out their speed and trajectory, says the company.
You will also be able to gain other information such as MMSI number, name of vessel and destination, useful to know in case you need to use the DSC to call the ship. The AIS receiver also benefits from the excellent performance of the IC-M505 and IC-M603 receiver, says Icom.
The company claims the IC-M505 is the most waterproof VHF/DSC in the market place with advanced IPX8 grade waterproofing (equivalent of submersion to 1.5 metres for 30 minutes) which makes it ideal for the most extreme environments. It has an intuitive and well laid out display.
Icom says the IC-M603 is the ideal VHF/DSC for boat owners who want a stylish, well laid out and easy to use transceiver. The IC-M603 features a large front facing speaker to produce very loud and clear audio even over engine or other background noise. It has a large, backlit, high resolution LCD display and control panel.
Either model may be remotely controlled by one HM-162 Commandmic up to a maximum distance of 18.3 metres (60ft). In addition, the IC-M603 has the option of being controlled by a second Commandmic, and allowing intercom between two Commandmic's.
Ian Lockyer, marketing manager of Icom UK, said: “These are the world's first VHF/DSC transceivers with integrated AIS receiver. They simply interface with your chart plotter or PC with one standard cable and will allow you to receive position and other vital information of other AIS equipped vessels. This solution will give seafarers the information to make safe passage through busy waters.'
The retail price of the IC-M505 (with AIS receiver) is £570 (inc.VAT). The retail price of the IC-M603 (with AIS receiver) is £750 (inc.VAT).
Also on display on Icom's stand at the show is the IC-M411, a compact, waterproof VHF/DSC “at an unbeatable price.”
It has been designed for small boats where space is at a premium, and to be “easy to use and easy to see.” The large speaker grille also features Icom's Aquaquake draining function. The set has a recommended retail price of £145 (inc VAT).
And Icom also gave a glimpse into the future, with two concept “black box” VHF/DSC models on display.
Called the IC-M505 Controller and IC M603 Controller, the radios are designed for the black box to be installed out of sight. They are controlled by an Icom Commandmic, which can be used remotely.
“This innovation gives the benefits of a full fixed VHF/DSC to boat owners who might not normally have the space to use one,” says the company.
“There are some boat owners who may only have very little space for instruments and rely on a handheld for their comms.
“The ability to utilise 25 watt output power from either fixed units, as well as the vessel's VHF antenna, will give greater range to these users and a lot more flexibility.
“Because these are Icom's higher tier models you have a range of facilities to operate from the controlling Commandmic, including VHF, DSC, hailer and foghorn functions.”
With the evolution of marine electronic equipment, more instrumentation is now housed on a chart table, where space is at a premium. Simply moving the main comms unit out of sight optimises space and allows you to use your Commandmic conveniently at the chart table, says Icom.
Another advantage of the concept is that it reduces the possibility of theft, as the Commandmic can be unplugged from the hidden main unit and taken away when leaving the boat!
“Icom's product development policy is to put the needs of the consumer at the forefront of product development,” said Mr Lockyer.
This was the first time the concept models had been shown anywhere in the world. As yet there is no indication of when they will come on to the market, or what their price will be.
