Icom UK has announced that it will provide a free hardware upgrade for existing owners of the IC-M505/IC-M603 VHF/DSC Transceivers who purchase the MA-500TR Class B AIS Transponder.

The upgrade is free of charge but customers will have to pay for carriage both ways.

One of the major features of the MA-500TR is that it can be integrated with the Icom IC-M505/IC-M603. A key benefit of this integration is that it allows users to transmit DSC individual calls to a selected vessel instantly without manual MMSI entry; a very handy feature to have in an emergency.

Here is how to find out if you need the upgrade:

– IC-M505 – Switch on while pressing [ENT] (Channel change). If
your unit displays REV 1.01/VER 3.14 or Higher then your unit will work
with the MA-500TR
– IC-M603 – Switch on while pressing [ENT]. If your unit displays REV 1.40 or higher then your unit will work with the MA-500TR

If your IC-M505/IC-M603 has a revision/version number earlier than stated, then you will require the update.

To double check, on the packaging the radio came in, it will clearly state if it is MA-500TR compatible.

If you have any questions regarding this free upgrade contact ICOM on 01227 741741.