BLU marine GMDSS GM800
In stock
Technical specifications
Technical specifications
| Activation delay | N/A |
| Activation requirement | Electrical installation and wiring |
| Antenna type | Long wire antenna |
| Balance check method | N/A |
| Bi-directional communication | Yes |
| Compatible network | GMDSS MF/HF network |
| Compatible systems | NMEA 0183 |
| Coverage area | GMDSS sea areas A3 and A4 |
| Data service included | Yes (integrated ASN/DSC, compatible with Pactor modems for email) |
| Data transfer speed | N/A |
| Dedicated phone number | No |
| Delivery format | Physical product |
| Geographic applicability | GMDSS sea areas A3 and A4 |
| GPS | Non-integrated, requires an external GNSS receiver |
| Intended use | Maritime communications GMDSS (safety, distress, routine) |
| IP rating | IPX7 (front face) |
| Iridium frequency band | N/A |
| Rechargeable | No (powered from the vessel) |
| Payment model | N/A |
| Satellite constellation type | N/A |
| Satellite network | N/A |
| Shock and vibration resistance | Compliant with Marine Equipment Directive (MED) |
| SMS capability | Short messages via DSC |
| SOS button | Yes, DSC distress button |
| Integrated SOS button | Yes |
| Standalone operation | Standalone unit |
| Supported services | Voice (SSB), Digital Selective Calling (DSC) for distress, urgency, safety and routine, and data transmission (including Radiotelex, with additional equipment) |
| Voice capability | Yes |
| Voicemail support | No |
| Weight | Not specified |
| Wired input | NMEA 0183, DC power, RF antenna, external speaker |
| Wireless connectivity | None |
Detailed description
Detailed description
The BLU marine GMDSS GM800 from Icom is an MF/HF transceiver designed for compliance with the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). Certified SOLAS and compliant with the EU Marine Equipment Directive (MED), bearing the "wheel mark", it is specifically intended for regulated commercial vessels operating on international voyages. This model is essential for maritime zones A2, A3, and A4, providing a robust and reliable solution for distress and safety communications at sea.
Technical Performance and GMDSS Compliance
The BLU marine GMDSS GM800 operates across extended frequency ranges: transmit from 1.6 to 27.5 MHz (ITU marine channels) and receive from 0.5 to 29.9999 MHz (continuous). Dedicated DSC frequencies include 2.1875, 4.2075, 6.3120, 8.4145, 12.5770, and 16.8045 MHz. It supports multiple transmission types: J3E (USB/LSB), H3E (AM), J2B (AFSK), F1B (FSK), and A1A (CW) for transmit/receive, and F1B for DSC. Its RF output power is 150 W PEP on 50 Ω at the radio terminal, with output powers of 125 W (4.0–27.5 MHz) and 85 W (1.6–3.999 MHz) at the coupler output. The required power supply is 24 V DC (21.6–31.2 V) with floating ground, integrating a 24 V DC-DC converter.
Advanced DSC Features and User Interface
The BLU marine GMDSS GM800 features a dedicated DSC watch receiver that rotates through the six distress channels. It can store up to 100 MMSI members with a 10-character identifier and offers a DSC multi-tasking function displaying up to seven DSC procedures. It can also send distress relay calls. The user interface is unified with that of the GM600 (VHF), simplifying operation. The 4.3-inch TFT LCD color screen offers a nearly 180-degree viewing angle, displaying high-resolution characters and function icons, with a night mode for optimal readability in low-light conditions. Its control panel is IPX7 certified for immersion to 1 meter for 30 minutes, ensuring durability in demanding maritime environments.
Connectivity, Audio, and Essential Accessories
The BLU marine GMDSS GM800 delivers 4 W audio power with an internal speaker (8 Ω) and 2 W with an external speaker (4 Ω), unlike the GM600 which delivers 10 W with an external speaker. It includes a remote distress alarm, a printer connector (Centronics IEEE1284), and an IEC 61162-1 interface for GNSS receivers, accepting input formats GGA, GNS, GLL, RMC, FSI and providing FSI, DSC, DSE outputs. For MED compliance, the AT-141 automatic antenna coupler is a mandatory accessory. Other accessories such as the HS-98 handset, HM-214H hand microphone (IPX7), SP-24E external speaker, and OPC-1465 shielded control cable are also available. The main unit measures 367 × 95 × 260 mm and weighs 8.6 kg, while the controller measures 274 × 114 × 86 mm and weighs 760 g.
Expert opinion
Expert opinion
Pol CONIN
Digital Manager
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