New GX1800GPS/E and GX1850GPS/E Explorer series fixed mount DSC VHF from Standard Horizon

Building on the success of the GX1700E, leading VHF manufacturer Standard Horizon are proud to announce two new models; the GX1800GPS/E and the GX1850GPS/E. The GX1800GPS/E and GX1850GPS/E carry all the popular features of the GX1700E as well as an intuitive re-designed front panel for ease of use and updated high resolution display.

The GX1800GPS/E supports the NMEA 0183 protocol, which continues to be widely used, the GX1850GPS/E additionally carries the new and faster NMEA 2000 protocol. Both of these NMEA interfaces allow full connectivity with GPS and DSC data between compatible devices.

To aid with use in the dark, both models feature a new selectable night- mode display on the 66mm x 36mm backlit dot matrix screen. The level of illumination can be changed to a soft muted white with the text in easy-to-read large black letters.

Both sets are second-station capable, allowing them to use Standard Horizon’s latest RAM4 microphone, the SSM-70H model. This unit is able to control all the functions of the main radio from any location on-board (requires supplied connecting cable), so is usually found on an upper helm or flybridge. The RAM4 also doubles as an intercom between the handset and main set.

The GX1800GPS/E and the upgraded GX1850GPS/E share a similar chassis and typical of the Explorer series, feature an ultra-thin and compact rear case, making it just half the depth of comparable marine VHF radios. This slim profile makes the set very easy to flush fit into a dashboard, with a bracket mount available for more options.

The Explorer series has also been designed for ease of operation, so the E20 (Easy-To-Operate) menu system is now even more intuitive than ever.  A few simple steps give access to a wide range of DSC functions, which include features such as a pre-set key to store your 10 favourite channels and automatic DSC polling of the positions of up to 6 other vessels.

When using its built-in GPS, the Explorer series becomes a versatile navigation station, providing position information (latitude & longitude) and an electronic compass display. There is also a waypoint and GPS status page, allowing the skipper to enter, save and navigate to a waypoint, steering via the electronic compass. Should the set be used in a position with weak GPS reception, then there is a socket to connect the optional SCU-38 external GPS antenna. When used in an exposed environment, the set is waterproof to the IPX8 standard (immersion to 1 metre).

Both sets have also been enabled for ATIS (Automatic Transmitter Identification System) which is used on the inland waterways of Europe and mandatory for some types of pleasure vessel.

With a large, backlit screen, a selectable night mode display and a noise cancelling microphone with channel selector, this is a fully waterproof DSC VHF radio that offers a great deal of versatility from its slim yet rugged body. As with all Standard Horizon products, both models carry a 3-year no-quibble guarantee.

Recommended Retail Prices:

GX1800GPS/E with NMEA 0183: £239.95 including VAT

GX1850GPS/E with NMEA 0183/2000: £269.95 including VAT

RAM4 (SSM-70H) Second Station Mic: £169.95 including VAT

Key Features:

DSC Class D international VHF transceiver

NMEA 0183 compatible (GX1800GPS/E)

NMEA 0183 & 2000 compatible (GX1850GPS/E)

Selectable night mode display

Easy to operate menu system

Second station (RAM4 microphone) capable

Intercom feature between set and second station

Programmable Scan, Priority Scan and Multi Watch

Pre-set keys to store 10 favourite channels

Automatic DSC polling of up to 6 other vessels

Man overboard (MOB) function

GPS compass, waypoint and GPS status page (via NMEA)

Save and navigate to waypoint function

IPX8 waterproofing

3-year warranty

Technical Specifications:

Model: GX1800GPS/E. GX1850GPS/E

Type: DSC transceiver to ITU-R M.493-14 (EU) Class D standard

Size: 5.9 x 3.4 x 3.3in (150 x 85 x 82mm)

Weight: 2.1lbs (940g)

Operating voltage: 11V to 16.5V

Current drain: 0.45A (standby) 0.8A (RX) 5.0A (TX Hi)

Display: Dot matrix 222 x 122 pixels

Display size: 2.6 x 1.4in (66 x 36mm)

Frequency range (TX): 156.025 MHz to 161.600MHz (Int)

GPS: 66 channels

Time to first fix (cold): 1 minute

Time to first fix (hot): 5 seconds

Datum: WGS84