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Simrad

000-14491-001

RS20S Marine VHF Radio with DSC

The Simrad RS20S (Link-6S) is a Class D marine VHF radio with ASN and built-in GPS, providing reliable communication and enhanced safety. Waterproof to IPx7 and with 25 W/1 W power output, it integrates via NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000, and supports international channels.

This model is supplied with a flush-mount kit and a mounting bracket.

Retail priceBenefit from the professional rate

£283.25 GBP

£283.25 GBP ~~£361.37 GBP~~

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Prices exclude import taxes (indicative rate: UK import VAT 20%). DAP delivery: import taxes are paid on delivery.

In stock

Free pickup point from €150 in France
Pickup at Skysat possible

Custom installation

Trust Skysat to install the equipment on board

Request a quote

Installers near you

thanks to our network of approved installers

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Support service

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Technical specifications

Max power consumption	72 W
Typical power consumption	5.4 W (standby)
Operating voltage	13.6 V DC
Operating temperature	-20 °C to +55 °C
Recommended fuse rating	8 A
Wired network	NMEA 0183
Audio output power	2 W (internal), 4 W (external)
Product height	89.2 mm
Product width	166.7 mm
Product depth	161.4 mm
Removable handset	No
IP rating	IPX7
Bus compatibility	NMEA 0183
Compass safe distance	50 cm
Mounting type	On bracket, Built-in
Certifications	CE (RED 2014/53/EU), FCC Part 15, ISED Canada, UK 2017
AIS RX	No
AIS TX	No
ATIS	Yes, for EU regions
Antenna connector	SO-239 (50 ohm)
DSC	Yes, Class D (Global)
GPS	Yes, built-in
Intercom function	No
VHF frequency range	156.025 - 163.275 MHz
VHF transmit power	25 W / 1 W selectable
Max wired handsets	0.0
Display type	LCD FSTN
Audio rewind feature	No
GPS antenna connector	SMA (female)
Removable fist mic	No
Available alarms	Low battery, DSC incoming call
Current Drain Receive Standby	450
Current Drain Transmit High Power	6
Current Drain Transmit Low Power	1.5
Fuse type	Glass type 3 AG
Low Battery Alert Voltage	10.5
Protection contre les surtensions	15.8
Poids emballé	2.2
Poids net du produit	1.18

Detailed description

Designed for communication and safety at sea, the Simrad RS20S fixed VHF radio (also designated Link-6S) is a Class D DSC marine communication solution with built-in GPS. It ensures reliable communication and precise location in emergencies.

Performance and technical features

The Simrad RS20S offers selectable transmit power of 25 W or 1 W, with current consumption of ≤ 6 A at 25 W and ≤ 1.5 A at 1 W under 12 V DC. The radio covers international, US, and Canadian channels, as well as country-specific weather channels. Its 42 x 34 mm (1.65" x 1.3") FSTN LCD screen features contrast control and backlighting for optimal visibility in varying light conditions. Frequency stability is ±5 ppm, with 25 kHz channel spacing. Audio output power is 2 W with 10 % distortion for an 8 ohm speaker. An external speaker can be connected for improved audibility.

Connectivity and integration

The RS20S integrates a GPS receiver with an internal antenna and an SMA female connector for an optional external GPS antenna. This feature ensures autonomous position for DSC distress calls, even without connection to other onboard GPS equipment. It features an NMEA 0183 port for input (supporting RMC, GGA, GLL, GNS sentences) and output (DSC for DSC calls, DSE for advanced position information), enabling integration with other compatible navigation systems. The RS20S also supports NMEA 2000 connectivity in addition to NMEA 0183, allowing flexible integration with other compatible navigation systems. The device is CE certified (RED 2014/53/EU) and waterproof to IPx7 standards.

Safety and use

The Class D DSC functionality with dual receiver (individual CH70) ensures priority for distress calls. The radio includes features such as triple watch (Tri Watch), favorite channel scanning (My Channels), and full scanning (All Scan). It also allows tracking up to 5 contacts (Track your Buddy) via automatic position requests. The MMSI and name directory can store 20 numbers and groups, and call logs retain 20 individual calls and 10 distress calls. The unit weighs 1.18 kg and can be mounted on a bracket or flush-mounted, offering installation flexibility. Its dimensions are L=166.7 mm × H=89.2 mm × D=161.4 mm without the bracket, and its safe compass distance is 0.5 m.

Documentation

Type	Nom
	EN - Manuel d'utilisation - RS20S Radio VHF marine avec ASN
	FR - Guide d'utilisation - RS20S Radio VHF marine avec ASN

Expert opinion

Pol CONIN

Digital Manager

« Technical analysis: Simrad RS20S VHF radio with ASN and integrated GPS »

The Simrad RS20S VHF radio (also known as Link-6S) is particularly well-suited to small and medium-sized vessels such as rigid inflatables, day-cruising motorboats, and sailboats, where space and budget may be factors but essential safety and communication capabilities are paramount. Its integrated GPS receiver is a significant advantage, providing autonomous distress capability even if the primary chartplotter or other GPS sources are faulty or absent aboard. This makes it an excellent primary or secondary communication system.

Installation is flexible, with flush-mount or bracket-mount options. NMEA 0183 connectivity simplifies integration with older chartplotters or multifunction displays for position sharing. It also features NMEA 2000 for modern network integration. The dedicated SMA connector for an optional external GPS antenna is useful in installations where the internal antenna might have an obstructed view, for example when mounted deep within a console. Users should carefully consider placement to ensure optimal GPS signal reception.

Compared to more advanced Simrad models such as the RS40 or RS100, which offer NMEA 2000 and often support external handsets or AIS receivers, the RS20S focuses on essential VHF and ASN functions with an added layer of GPS safety. It is a pragmatic choice for recreational boaters who need a reliable Class D ASN VHF with NMEA 2000 network integration, or for those upgrading from an older VHF without GPS. Its simplicity and IPx7 waterproof rating ensure reliable operation in typical marine conditions. The "Track your Buddy" function, while basic, adds practical value for flotillas or cruises between friends.

For vessels already equipped with a full NMEA 2000 network and requiring advanced features such as direct AIS integration in the VHF or multiple remote stations, a different model with greater expandability would be more appropriate.

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RS20S Marine VHF Radio with DSC

£283.25 GBP

£283.25 GBP ~~£361.37 GBP~~

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is ASN and is it integrated into this VHF radio?

ASN (Automatic Selective Numbering, or DSC in English) is a safety feature built into the Simrad RS20S VHF radio. It allows you to send digital distress calls with your GPS position coordinates, as well as make individual or group calls to other vessels equipped with ASN. This radio is Class D with a dual receiver (individual Channel 70).

Does the Simrad RS20S VHF radio have an integrated GPS?

Yes, the Simrad RS20S VHF radio integrates a GPS receiver with an internal antenna. It also features an SMA female connector for an optional external GPS antenna, ensuring autonomous position for DSC distress calls even without connection to other onboard GPS equipment.

What is the transmit power of this VHF radio?

The Simrad RS20S radio provides selectable transmit power of 25 W (high) or 1 W (low), allowing you to adjust communication range to your needs.

Is the Simrad RS20S radio waterproof?

Yes, the Simrad RS20S VHF radio is waterproof and submersible, compliant with IPx7 waterproofing standards. This means it is protected against temporary immersion in water.

Which marine channels are available on the RS20S?

The Simrad RS20S radio supports international, US (USA), and Canadian marine channels. It also includes country-specific weather channels when selected.

Can I connect the radio to other navigation devices?

Yes, the Simrad RS20S radio has an NMEA 0183 port. It can receive GPS data (RMC, GGA, GLL, GNS sentences) and send DSC (DSC calls) and DSE (advanced position information) to other compatible navigation systems.

What are the dimensions of the Simrad RS20S radio?

The dimensions of the Simrad RS20S radio are 166.7 mm (width) x 89.2 mm (height) x 161.4 mm (depth), excluding the mounting bracket.

What type of power supply does the radio require?

The Simrad RS20S radio operates on a 12 V DC battery system. The nominal operating voltage is +13.6 V DC. It features a low-battery alert at 10.5 V DC +/- 0.5 V and overvoltage protection beyond 15.8 V DC +/- 0.5 V.

Can the RS20S radio be used on European inland waterways?

Yes, for models intended for the EU, the ATIS (Automatic Transmitter Identification System) function must be enabled when using the radio on European inland waterways, in accordance with applicable regulations.

What are the mounting options available for this VHF radio?

There are two mounting options for the Simrad RS20S radio:

Bracket mounting: Allows installation on a flat surface. Flush mounting: Requires a flush-mount kit (sold separately or included depending on the package) for a more discreet integration into the dashboard.

What is the weight of the Simrad RS20S radio?

The Simrad RS20S radio weighs 1.18 kg.

What is the safe compass distance for the RS20S radio?

The safe compass distance for the Simrad RS20S radio is 0.5 meters (1.5 feet) to prevent any magnetic deviation of the compass.

What is the operating temperature range of the radio?

The Simrad RS20S radio is designed to operate within a temperature range of -20 °C to +55 °C (-4 °F to 131 °F).

What types of calls can the RS20S radio handle?

The Simrad RS20S radio supports various call types, including:

ASN distress calls.Individual calls.Group calls.All ships calls.Position requests (Position Polling).It also features call logs for 20 individual calls and 10 distress calls.

Does the radio have channel scanning functions?

Yes, the Simrad RS20S radio integrates several channel scanning functions:

Favourite Channel Scan, which allows you to create a custom list of channels.

All Scan (full channel scan).

Tri Watch, which monitors channel 16 and another priority channel (or channels 9 and 16 for US models).

How can I program the MMSI number on the radio?

The Simrad RS20S radio allows the user to program its MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) number. This operation is typically performed during the radio's first power-up and is essential for using ASN functions.

What are the characteristics of the LCD screen on the radio?

The Simrad RS20S radio’s LCD screen measures 42 mm x 34 mm (1.65" x 1.3") and is FSTN type. It features contrast and backlight controls for optimal visibility in varying light conditions.

What is the replacement fuse type for the radio?

The recommended replacement fuse for the Simrad RS20S radio is an 8 A, 3 AG glass fuse, measuring 32 mm (1.25").

What VHF antenna connector does the radio use?

The Simrad RS20S radio uses a VHF antenna connector of type SO-239 (50 ohm).

Is the Simrad RS20S radio compatible with an external speaker?

Yes, the Simrad RS20S radio is equipped with an output for an external speaker. This allows connecting an additional speaker for improved audibility, with an audio output power of 2 W (at 8 ohms with 10% distortion).