A brand new compact marine VHF radio with built in Class D DSC controller at a remarkably low price. The Simrad RD68 is a compact all-in-one unit and is exceptionally easy to install as it takes less space and requires minimal wiring.
Additional information
VHF has been the principal form of ship to ship and ship to shore communication for many years with clarity, range and ease of use generally improving as the technology progressed. Now major advances have created the Digital Selective Calling system (DSC), part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) which was devised for the world's Merchant Shipping fleets and will have a considerable impact on the way safety at sea is co-ordinated in the future. The simplicity of the DSC system is intended to make distress calling faster and more accurate and allow the user to call up individual ships and coast stations.
As with most new technology, initial systems were costly and large, with two units needed to handle the VHF and DSC functions. Simrad was one of the world's first marine electronics companies to develop type approved VHF DSC radios and gave an early commitment to drive costs down and make the safety of GMDSS available to everyone. This has now been achieved with the new Simrad RD68, a single unit, purpose built VHF with DSC controller built in. An economical compact package.
Easy to install Easy to use Telephone Handset or Fistmike options Bracket or Flush mount options
Using the RD68
Considerable effort has been made to ensure the new radio is easy to use. Simple menu structures direct the operation in both radio and DSC modes. Using the radio, the channel number is displayed in large digits, while soft keys give quick access to all scan modes. Dedicated keys are provided for the commonly used radio functions. A single key press gives immediate access to the DSC mode. Again soft keys give access to all the calling modes, the call log and other utilities. The clearly marked Distress key is protected from accidental operation by a spring loaded cover.
Full functions
The RD68 is a powerful VHF with 54 international channels, up to 10 private channels plus national channels, where allowed. Dual and tri watch functions are included. The full range of DSC calls can be made including group calls for flotilla or sailing club use. A directory allows storage of up to 16 commonly used call numbers (MMSI's) which can be edited to allow call selection by name.
The benefits of DSC
DSC can be considered in much the same way as dialling a telephone call. It allows the user to contact a specific vessel, coastguard station or all ships. Most importantly, it also transmits other information including the category and voice channel to use for further communications.
When a GPS is connected the distress message will automatically include your position, making it easier for rescuers to find you and eliminating erroneous positions which may be given accidentally in times of stress. VHF stations which are capable of receiving a DSC distress call now cover the majority of Europe. Pressing the distress button will alert ships and coast stations of your position, information about your vessel and your selected channel for return communication. For general use the DSC group call feature allows clubs, sailing flotillas, and other group passage makers to easily contact all other participants.
