Icom is pleased to announce details of two forthcoming Marine HF transceivers, the IC-M801E and IC-M801GMDSS. The IC-M801GMDSS has been designed for Class A DSC operation and meets GMDSS requirements and MED 96/98/EC, “wheel mark” requirements for Commercial SOLAS regulated vessels. The IC-M801E will meet Class E standards for non-SOLAS vessels. These models are based on the award winning IC-M801, which has won the NMEA best SSB Radio Telephone Award for the past three years.

The IC-M801E/GMDSS both feature a remote head that can be neatly installed on a chart table or fly bridge whilst the ‘black box’ controller discretely mounts out of the way and out of sight. The controller can be interfaced into a GPS, laptop computer or e-mail modem to make a complete communication system. This controller is capable of operating from a 12-volt or 24-volt supply. Connections are also available for external loud speaker and the Icom automatic antenna coupler.

The IC-M801E/GMDSS front panel features a full keypad, allowing direct frequency entry. The large dot-matrix display offers 10 levels of backlighting to suit operating conditions. Large dials and buttons allow for easy operation in rough seas. Icom have included a headphone socket on the front panel, allowing the operator to use the radio during night watches.

The IC-M801E/GMDSS provides 125W of output power, enough to provide reliable long distance communication. The large cooling fan ensures stable internal temperature even during high duty operation. The IC-M801E/GMDSS is pre-programmed with 1035 international and domestic channels, plus 160 user-programmable “favourite frequency” channels that can be programmed into the radio by an authorised Icom dealer.

Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom (UK) Ltd said, ‘Icom has 20 years experience of producing high quality HF Marine Transceivers which has included the IC-M710 which was standard installation on most ocean going yachts. The introduction of the IC-M801 gives customers the opportunity to re-equip vessels with a comprehensive set, which provides effective communication, DSC facilities, and email.’

Preview products will be shown on the Icom UK stand (S2415) at the London Boat Show 2006. Type-approval is in progress and the radio should be available by the start of the season.