GMDSS fixed VHF GM600

The GMDSS fixed VHF GM600 from Icom is a high-end marine communication station strictly compliant with Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) requirements. Certified to MED (Marine Equipment Directive), SOLAS, and meeting ITU-R M.493-13 DSC and IMO A.694(17) standards, this radio is specifically designed for commercial and passenger vessels operating in regulated maritime zones.

Transmit and receive performance

Engineered to ensure clear communications in all conditions, the GM600 offers adjustable RF output power of 25 W or 1 W. It covers transmit frequencies from 156.025 to 161.600 MHz and receive frequencies from 156.025 to 162.000 MHz, with a dedicated receiver permanently monitoring channel 70 (156.525 MHz) for Digital Selective Calling (DSC). Its high-performance audio system delivers 10 W via an external 4-ohm speaker and 2 W via its internal speaker, ensuring maximum intelligibility even in noisy bridge environments.

Integration and robustness for professional marine use

Installation of the GM600 VHF is simplified by its dual DC power compatibility: 12 V DC (10.8–15.6 V) and 24 V DC (21.6–31.2 V). Equipped with an IEC 61162-1 data interface (supporting input frames RMC, GGA, GNS, GLL, VTG and output DSC, DSE) and a Centronics IEEE1284 port, it easily interfaces with onboard navigation equipment. The front panel features IPX7 ingress protection, ensuring resistance to heavy water spray. With dimensions of 274 × 114 × 121.5 mm and a weight of 1.6 kg, it fits perfectly into navigation consoles.

Position in the Icom GMDSS range

Within the Icom GMDSS ecosystem, the GM600 serves as the primary VHF station, ideally complementing the GM800 MF/HF transceiver (150 W) for long-distance communications. Unlike the portable survival radio IC-GM1600E (limited to 2 W and designed specifically for liferafts), the GM600 is the core of the vessel’s daily and distress communications. It is supplied as standard with the HM-214V hand microphone and DC power cable.