The latest VHF handheld transceiver from Icom is a real whiz. Fits the hand nicely, and feels heavy enough to let you know it's a serious piece of kit. So serious that it is predicted that the commercial boys will be using it as well as Search and Rescue organisations. If the RNLI adopt them you can be sure that the performance is equal to the looks. It is claimed to have advanced waterproof protection. Although we've not put it to the test, it does conform to the International Standard IEC 60529. Equal to IPX8 rating which is a first in this market. Severe weather conditions should be no problem for this handheld. The sound is said to be improved and the latest high capacity battery will keep going and going… up to 16 hours operating time. Plus the battery can be recharged with no risk of the 'memory effect'.
We checked out the sound performance, and it is good in a noisy environment, the output (600mW) easily beat our artificially induced howling wind, actually not a bad simulation of a spot of rough weather at sea. An excellent power output, of 6 watts, provides extended communication range when you need it.
One thing we particularly liked about this new VHF is its simplicity. The illuminated keypads are clearly marked and their position can be easily located even wearing gloves. If for some reason privacy is an issue for you, there is a built-in scrambler if you need conversations to be kept private.
There is an accessory socket incorporated onto the top of the radio, much like the IC-M90/M1EuroV and allows for a wide range of accessories such as VOX headsets for safe, hands free, communications - alternatively a waterproof speaker microphone may be used.
Even though this VHF is rugged enough to be used in emergency situations, the leisure boat owner will appreciate its simplicity and stylish design.
The product will be shown on the Icom UK stand at the Southampton Boat Show 2006. An extended 3-year warranty is available. The price around £229.95.
