ICOM Australia has released some new electronic goodies onto the marine market, one of which is the IC- M412 Marine VHF Transceiver. Icom says the IC-M412 offers superb features at an affordable price.
The new transceiver supersedes the IC-M411. In addition to the feature set of the previous model, the IC-M412 can also integrate with Icom’s MA-500TR AIS Transponder, and has improved audio output. The IC-M412, like all Icom radios, is made in Japan, adhering to strict quality standards.
The transceiver boasts a strong IPX7 design, meaning the unit is waterproof to a depth of one metre for 30 minutes. Powerful class-D DSC is also featured in the transceiver, meaning the unit has a dedicated DSC receiver. With many Australian Marine Rescue organisations now using DSC to monitor coastal activity, a DSC-enabled VHF radio is a must when considering safety on the water. A total of 100 MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) numbers can also be programmed into the transceiver.
Icom’s MA-500TR Class B AIS transponder offers a cost effective entry option into chartplotting, with the reliability and functionality that Icom marine equipment is known for.
AIS (Automatic Identification System) is an automated tracking system used by ships, marine emergency services organisations (e.g. Coastguards) and other maritime bodies. It allows vessel positions and courses to be displayed graphically on screen, and also provides important information such as vessel names, MMSI numbers and speeds. This provides the user with valuable information, allowing them to avoid collisions and place DSC calls to individual ships should the need arise.
The Icom MA-500TR is the perfect choice those wanting a feature packed and reliable AIS transponder. It features IPX7 (1m depth for 30 minutes) water ingress protection, and like all Icom products, is made in Japan to strict quality standards. Being a transponder, not a receiver, the MA-500TR will also send out the user’s information, allowing them to be visible to other vessels.
A GPS receiver is included in the box, and the MA-500TR features a full dot-matrix display, so there is no need to worry about 3rd party items (an external chartplotter can be connected, but is not required). The MA-500TR is available now for $1507 RRP.
More info at: www.icom.net.au
