Straumsnarpur OPC-891A

The Icom OPC-891A power cable is designed to provide direct current (DC) power to various compatible Icom marine VHF radios. It allows the radio to be connected directly to a 12 V power source on the boat.

The OPC-891A cable is designed for a 12-volt direct current (DC) power supply. It must not be used with a higher voltage, such as 24 V DC, as this could damage the radio.

Installation is straightforward:

The cable has a specific connector that plugs into the power socket on the rear of your Icom VHF radio.The other end of the cable has stripped wires (usually red for positive and black for negative). These wires must be connected to your boat’s 12 V DC power source, strictly respecting polarity.It is recommended to disconnect power before making any connections and to consult your radio’s user manual for detailed instructions.

No, the OPC-891A cable is specifically designed with a connector and electrical specifications tailored for Icom VHF radios. It is not compatible with equipment from other brands due to differences in connectors and configuration.

The OPC-891A cable is typically supplied as a standard accessory with many Icom VHF radio models at initial purchase. However, it is also available for separate purchase as a spare part. It is always advisable to check the contents of your radio’s box or the product sheet for confirmation.

The OPC-891A power cable is designed to be used with a direct 12 V DC power source. Since its use is strictly limited to operational testing and technical diagnostics of the Icom GM600 marine VHF, it is typically connected to a stable laboratory power supply or a dedicated 12 V test battery. It is important to note that this cable bypasses the PS-310 voltage converter and must not be used as the primary power system for a permanent installation aboard the vessel.

The OPC-891A cable is a direct power cable. It is designed to connect the VHF radio directly to the boat's 12 V DC power source, not to extend another power cable.

Yes, using the OPC-891A power cable to supply the Icom GM600 VHF in operational mode would affect its GMDSS Class A compliance.

The OPC-891A cable is designed to provide a direct 12 V DC power supply to the GM600 VHF, specifically for functional testing and technical diagnostics. It bypasses the Icom PS-310 voltage converter.

To ensure GMDSS Class A compliance of the GM600, a regulated 12.6 V supply is mandatory. This supply is normally provided by the PS-310 voltage converter (used with the OPC-2352 cable). Therefore, the OPC-891A cable must not be used as the main power system for an onboard installation where GMDSS Class A compliance is required, as it does not provide the necessary regulated voltage.

As an Icom original accessory designed for marine equipment, the OPC-891A cable is manufactured using materials suitable for nautical environments. However, to ensure maximum durability and reliable installation, connections of stripped wires to the power source must be made securely, with watertight sealing and protection against moisture and corrosion.

Yes, several precautions are important:

Ensure the boat's 12 V DC power is switched off before making any connections.Make sure to respect the wire polarity: red wire to positive (+) and black wire to negative (-).Use watertight and secure electrical connections (e.g., crimped and insulated terminals) to prevent short circuits, corrosion, and fire hazards.Always consult your radio's user manual for specific installation instructions.

No, the OPC-891A cable is a unidirectional power cable designed solely to supply current to a compatible Icom VHF radio. It cannot under any circumstances be used to charge a battery or for any other purpose than powering the Icom equipment.

The OPC-891A power cable is designed to provide technicians with direct access to a 12 V DC power supply for the Icom GM600 marine VHF. Its main advantage is that it allows bypassing the PS-310 voltage converter, which is normally required to deliver a regulated 12.6 V DC supply (essential for the GM600’s GMDSS Class A compliance).

By using the OPC-891A, technicians can perform bench testing or maintenance interventions without relying on the vessel’s external PS-310 power supply. This simplifies technical diagnostics and testing procedures by providing a direct, dedicated power connection for these specific uses.

It is technically possible to cut and extend the cable, but this must be done with great care by someone with marine electrical skills. Any modification to the cable could affect its performance, safety, or void the product warranty. It is best to use a cable of the appropriate length or consult a professional for any adaptation.

Yes, the OPC-891A is an original Icom power cable. Using original accessories ensures perfect compatibility, optimal reliability, and compliance with Icom equipment specifications.

The OPC-891A cable and the PS-310 converter (with the OPC-2352 cable) serve distinct and complementary functions for the Icom GM600 marine VHF.

The PS-310 converter, paired with the OPC-2352 cable, is the main power supply system. It is essential to provide a regulated 12.6 V DC supply, critical for the GM600’s compliance with GMDSS Class A when installed and used aboard the vessel.

The OPC-891A cable, in contrast, is a DC cable designed specifically for testing and technical diagnostics. It allows direct power supply to the transceiver at 12 V DC exclusively for operational verification procedures on a test bench or during maintenance interventions. It provides technicians with direct access to the power supply without requiring the vessel’s external PS-310 power block.

In summary, the OPC-891A is a tool dedicated to technicians for maintenance and testing and does not replace the main power supply system required for permanent operational installation aboard the vessel.

The OPC-891A cable itself generally does not include an integrated fuse. The fuse protection must be provided at the boat's power source, in accordance with the user manual recommendations for your Icom VHF radio. It is critical to install a fuse with the correct amperage to protect your equipment and the boat's electrical system.

No, the OPC-891A cable is designed specifically for 12V DC power. Using it with a 24V DC system will irreparably damage the Icom VHF radio. If your boat uses a 24V system, a suitable voltage converter (24V to 12V step-down) will be required to power your radio.