BMEA

Standard Horizon has just launched one of the smallest fixed VHF DSC radios on the market.  The ultra-compact GX1100E measures just 115mm x 60mm x 170mm (4.4in x 2.3in x 6.6in) but despite the small size, there has been no compromise on features. The front panel is fully waterproof (IPX7, one meter for 30 minutes) making it ideal for use on all types of craft, especially when space is at a premium.

The GX1100E is the first fixed DSC from Standard Horizon on which ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service) can be fully programmed and switched on and off via the front panel. ATIS is an identification system used on inland waterways in many areas of mainland Europe.

Transmit power is switchable (via the front panel) between Low (1W) and High (25W), and there is a time-out facility which limits transmission time to 5 minutes, thus preventing unintentional (prolonged) transmissions.

The DSC side of the GX1100E is also packed with useful features, and is accessed via an up/down arrow menu.  When the set is connected to a GPS receiver via an NMEA cable, your current position is clearly shown on the bright LCD screen (this display is accessed by pressing and holding the H/L key). The set can then be programmed to poll for the positions of up to 48 other DSC-equipped vessels and can automatically (or manually) volunteer your own position when asked. Your position is also automatically transmitted when the distress button is used, but can also be entered manually if a GPS is not connected.

Standard Horizon has taken this function one step further by allowing the positions of the polled vessels to be displayed on any Standard Horizon plotter connected to the GX1100E.

Current draw from a 12-volt supply is just 0.3A in stand-by mode, rising to 1.0A when receiving and 5.5A when transmitting at 25W. All the usual VHF functions such as low and high power settings, dual watch and one-button Channel 16 selection are easily accessed via the buttons on the fascia.

The set is supplied with a power cable, an attachment bracket, a warranty card and a comprehensive handbook. An external loudspeaker and flush mount bracket are also available as optional extras.