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Updated on 4/25/2024
By Abigail Scott
I'm Abigail Scott, an author, adventurer, and mother of three. When I'm not navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood, you can find me tackling the turbulent waters as a professional whitewater kayaker or scaling impressive rock faces as a climbing guide. The rush of adrenaline, whether from kayaking or climbing, is a feeling I cherish deeply. But the thrill doesn't stop there; I capture the breathtaking allure of nature through my lens as a professional photographer. And when I'm not submerged in the wild, my software engineering skills amplify my outdoor pursuits, allowing me to harness technology in unique ways. Through my writings, whether articles or blog posts, I share not just my adventures but my heart, hoping to spark a flame of inspiration in others to break boundaries and experience the world's wonders.
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ICOM IC-M506 21 Fixed Mount VHF with Hailer, N2K
The ICOM IC-M506 VHF/airs radio is a fixed mount VHF with a built-in airs receiver. It offers 25/1 watts of power and comes with a built-in 2-way 25 Watt loudhailer/foghorn. With its -iv capability, class-d DSc, NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000, and optional voice Scrambler, this radio is packed with features.
Some key features of the ICOM IC-M506 21 include:
- Built-in loudhailer/foghorn, NMEA 2000, and remote capability
- Show airs vessel traffic information on the display; weather & alert channels
- Plug-and-play functionality of NMEA 2000
- Large 3.4 inch LCD, reading GPS, airs, DSC and Radio menus
- Foghorn and RX speaker functions. 80dB (typical) IMD and channel selectivity
Now let's address some frequently asked questions:
Is there a part number for the external receiver?
The AIS Receiver is built into the unit as it is sold. That's why it's classified as a commercial unit. It has robust construction, large knobs, large display, and is easy to read. There are similar units available in the market that include a GPS at half the price but are not considered commercial units. It's interesting to see that these same companies also offer similar units that do not include a GPS receiver. It's likely a marketing strategy. If the previous unit lasted 15 years, you can expect this one to be just as good.
Does the ICOM IC-M506 have NOAA weather channels?
Yes, the weather channels are available. Just fiddle around with the controls, and you'll find them.
Can you select which source of AIS inputs it uses from the N2K network, in case of more than one source you don't see double targets?
Yes, you can select the source of AIS inputs from the N2K network to avoid seeing double targets.
Buenas noches necesito saber si rstr radio tirnr ais y si tengo que conectatlo a un gps?
Si, necesitas una entrada de GPS para la radio. Esta puede provenir de un chartplotter, antena GPS o cualquier dispositivo con GPS a través de NMEA 0183 o NMEA 2000.
Things we like
- Waterproof: The IC-M506 21 is rated as waterproof, with an IPX7 waterproof rating. This means it can withstand being submerged in water for short periods of time.
- DSC (Digital Selective Calling): The IC-M506 21 is equipped with DSC, which allows for the transmission of digital data over the radio waves. This can allow for the transmission of emergency alerts, as well as the exchange of information between vessels.
- GPS: The IC-M506 21 includes a built-in GPS receiver, which allows for the transmission of your position information to other vessels or coastal stations.
- Noise-cancelling microphone: The IC-M506 21 includes a noise-cancelling microphone, which helps to reduce background noise and improve the clarity of transmitted audio.
- Large LCD display: The IC-M506 21 has a large, easy-to-read LCD display that shows important information such as the channel, battery level, and GPS status.
- Long battery life: The IC-M506 21 has a long battery life, with up to 18 hours of use on a single charge.
- Memory function: The IC-M506 21 has a memory function that allows you to store up to 10 of your most frequently used channels for easy access.
- Hail and distress call: The IC-M506 21 has a dedicated hail and distress call button, which allows you to quickly transmit a call for help in an emergency situation.
Things we don't like
- Cost: The IC-M506 21 may be more expensive than other portable VHF marine radios on the market.
- Dependence on technology: The IC-M506 21 relies on technology to function, which means it can be affected by issues such as interference or equipment failure. It's important to have backup communication methods in case the IC-M506 21 is not available.
- Limited range: The IC-M506 21 has a limited range, and may not be reliable for communication over long distances or in remote areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a part number for the external receiver?
The AIS Receiver is built into the unit as it is sold. Thats why it’s classified as a commercial unit i think, as it has robust construction, large knobs, large display, Easy to read. I find it interesting that several manufactures market similar units thats Include a GPS at half the price that are not considered commercial units. These same companies market similar units similar size, construction, and are so-called commercial units also do not include a GPS receiver. So go figureI believe this is marketing. If it is good as the last unit That lasted 15 years I’m sure you’ll be happy. It’s still works but it’s display is getting hard to read
Does the icomic m506 have noaa weather channel?
Yes, they are there, just fiddle around with the controls, you'll find the weather channels..
Can you select which source of ais inputs it uses from the n2k network, in case of more than one source you don't see double targets?
Yes you can
Buenas noches necesito saber si rstr radio tirnr ais y si tengo que conectatlo a un gps?
Yes, you need GPS input to the radio. This can come from chartplotter, gos antenna or any device with gos via nmea 0183 or nmea 200.Si, GPS necesito.
