IC-M31 - Finding a great value hand-held VHF radio

The editor finds a hand-held VHF on the deck

We took the radio out to the boat and by using our own VHF from varying distances from different locations we were able to test the performance. As you can see our boat is quite small.

Entry level VHF

The manufacturer describes the Icom IC M31 as an 'entry level' VHF and has pitched the price to match. We tested one against some important criteria and this is what we found.

Waterproof

Not all hand-held VHFs like water. The standard test is to remain waterproof at a depth of 1 metre for 30 minutes. The M31 passes that test although they modestly describe it as 'water resistant'. The M31 is the cheapest hand-held to meet this standard.

Batteries

It is generally accepted that Li-Ion (Lithium Ion) batteries as used in mobile phones are superior to the more commonly used NiMH and NiCads used in marine products. The last two can suffer from what is called 'memory loss' This means that when you recharge a battery that has reached a discharged level of say 80%. The NiMH and NiCads will assume that 80% is the level required, thus lowering the batteries true potential. The unit we tested had a Li-Ion battery pack included.

Performance

There are 9 good sized keypad buttons, arranged in three columns with three pads in each. They are identified in a logical manner and unlike many electronic devices the manual is almost superfluous. Channels are changed with the up and down arrows with channel 16 having its own dedicated pad. You can also scan or use dual watch. Squelch is abbreviated to SQL which is easy enough. Volume is controlled by + or -. 'Dial' returns you to your favoured channel after using channel 16. There is also a self diagnostic facility to check for faults. Transmit power output has its own key pad and works at the usual 1 watt (low) or 5 watts (high). Remember that with your in-built aerial being close to the deck, you are more likely to drain the battery than improve your range if you set transmission at 5 watts. This same key pad can lock the device against accidental channel changes.

The screen

We found this to be clear and bright with large easy to read numbers. The only negative aspect, was the rather small size of the function display graphics. There is a back lighting facility which can be activated in the SET mode.

Summary

This hand held VHF is a budget led product that succeeds in being great value for money. It is simple to operate, comes with a battery charger and various optional accessories. It is waterproof to JIS grade 7 standards. All in all, everything you would hope for, at below £170, a price that is very competitive, and as we are giving one away as a prize, someone is getting a very lucky break.