ICOM IC-M803 Marine HF/VHF Pack

The ICOM IC-M803 Marine HF/VHF Pack is an HF/VHF transceiver designed for long-range communications beyond the horizon. This SSB (Single Sideband) radio system with Class E DSC (Digital Selective Calling) integrates advanced safety and maritime communication features, positioning it as essential equipment for offshore navigation.

Safety and Advanced DSC Features

The IC-M803 features an independent, spring-loaded distress button protected by a cover, enabling automated digital distress signal transmission with GPS coordinates in emergencies. The dedicated DSC watch receiver continuously scans all six distress channels in rotation. It can store up to 100 MMSI numbers (75 individual, 25 group) with a 10-character identification name. The "Multiple Task Mode" handles multiple DSC call procedures simultaneously, allowing seamless switching between them.

Intuitive User Interface and High-Resolution Display

The IC-M803 user interface is optimized with a large main dial, soft keys, and an alphanumeric keypad for smooth entry of channel numbers, MMSI, and ship names. A programmable key on the HM-214H microphone provides quick access to common functions. The 4.3-inch TFT color screen offers a nearly 180-degree viewing angle, displaying high-resolution characters and icons. The night mode ensures optimal readability in low-light conditions, facilitating installation in various locations.

Communication Performance and Integrated Positioning

The IC-M803 integrates a GPS receiver compatible with GPS, GLONASS, and SBAS, providing position, heading, speed, and UTC data via the supplied GPS antenna. These data can be exported via the NMEA 0183 port (version 4.10, 4800–38400 bps) to other navigation devices. The "Advanced RF Direct Sampling System" significantly improves receiver sensitivity and audio clarity. The "Instant Replay Memory" function records the last two minutes of received audio, preventing missed communications.

Technical Specifications and Comparison

With an RF output power of 150 W (PEP), selectable at 100 W, 60 W, or 20 W, the IC-M803 offers extended range. Its continuous receive frequency coverage spans from 500 kHz to 29.9999 MHz. Transmit frequencies cover maritime bands from 1.6 MHz to 27.5 MHz, with dedicated DSC channels. The remote controller is IPX7-rated (immersion to 1 m for 30 minutes), ensuring robustness in marine environments. The unit supports J3E (USB, LSB), J2B (AFSK), F1B (FSK), A1A (CW), and H3E (AM receive) modes.

Compared to Icom’s IC-M605 VHF transceiver, the IC-M803 serves as the long-range SSB communication solution, complementing the M605’s VHF capabilities. Both units share a similar user interface and color TFT screen, ensuring consistent operation for navigators equipped with both systems. The IC-M803 is also compatible with HF e-mail operations, storing up to 160 frequency access channels for e-mail and featuring PC and e-mail modem connection terminals.

The main unit measures 240 × 94 × 238 mm (W × H × D) and weighs approximately 4.41 kg. The remote controller measures 274 × 114 × 86 mm and weighs approximately 760 g. Power requirement is 13.6 V DC ±15% (negative ground), with a maximum consumption of 3.0 A in receive mode and 30 A in transmit mode. The pack includes the remote controller, DC power cable, mounting bracket kits, a 5 m remote control cable, a 5 m GPS antenna with cable, ACC plugs, the HM-214H microphone with stand, and spare fuses. An optional AT-140 automatic antenna tuner is available for performance optimization.