Icom IC-M400BB Black Box VHF/DSC Marine Radio - available now!
by Ian Lockyer, BMEA 23 Apr 2013 13:40 BST
IC-M400BB Black Box VHF/DSC Marine Transceiver © ICOM
Icom UK is pleased to launch a new 'black box' marine transceiver called the IC-M400BB. This fully functional transceiver can be installed out of sight, which is important, when space is at a premium.
This space saving configuration from Icom gives the benefits of a full fixed VHF/DSC to boat owners who might not normally have the space to use one. There are some boat owners who may only have very little space for instruments and rely on handheld VHF for their comms. The ability to utilise 25 Watt output power, as well as the vessel's VHF antenna will give greater range to these users and a lot more flexibility.
The concept is to control the IC-M400BB 'black box' marine VHF/DSC radio by the Icom HM-195 Commandmic. The HM-195 allows operation of all radio functions including DSC, radio, foghorn, hailer horn from the cockpit or fly bridge. The HM-195 utilises the same user soft key interface used on Icom's latest range of marine radios making control of the radio very straightforward.
Because a Commandmic controls the unit, you get more intuitive control. In rough weather conditions, when the sea is extremely choppy and when you are trying to keep your balance, a Commandmic is probably easier to use than trying to retain your balance and operate the functions of VHF mounted to the bulkhead or console.
Icom believe there are many users who could benefit from this new product range:
- Powerboat owners, who may have very little cockpit space for a fixed unit.
- Sailing boats where space is at a premium
- Anywhere there is a chart table. With the evolution of marine electronic equipment more instrumentation is now housed on a chart table, where space is at a premium. Simply moving the main comms unit out of sight optimises space and allows you to use your Commandmic conveniently at the chart table.
- The chances of theft of the VHF are minimised. The Commandmic can be simply unplugged at the end of the day and taken home until the next time you use your boat.
Ian Lockyer, Marketing Manager of Icom UK Ltd said, 'Icom's product development policy is to put the needs of the consumer at the forefront of product development. Together with the IC-M423 and IC-M323 we have an innovative range of quality VHF/DSC's available for all mariners.'
The IC-M400BB is now available with a suggested retail price of £325.00 (ex.VAT). This price includes the Icom HM-195 Commandmic.
www.icomuk.co.uk