Icom's IC-M804 is a long range MF/HF Class E DSC radio based on the Class A GMDSS radio, GM800. Designed for for ocean-going sailors and commercial non GMDSS operators, IC-M804 confoms to the latest European and International standards, plus is CE marked for the European Radio Equipment Directive. As of November 2021, it's the only CE-marked Class E DSC marine MF/HF radio available.
Let's take a closer look at the features within this superb transceiver:
4.3" Colour TFT Display:
IC-M804 has a high resolution colour LCD display that provides an almost 180 degree wide viewing angle. The screen displays characters and function icons clearly, plus features a night mode for good readability in the dark.
Built-in DSC Watch Keeping Receiver:
The dedicated DSC watch keeping receiver continuously scans six distress channels in rotation. Up to 100 MMSI numbers (75 individual and 25 group) for DSC calls can be stored with a 10 character ID name.
Class E DSC MF/HF SSB Radio:
Icom's IC-M804 meets ITU-R M.493-15 Class E DSC regulations. The transceiver will provide long-distance communications for non-GMDSS vessels with almost identical features and functions, except for the different DSC class. In an emergency, you're able to send an automatic digital distress signal simply by pressing the large independent distress button. The digital distress signal with GNSS coordinates calls for help from other ships or coastal stations.
HF E-mail Operation:
The transceiver can be set to memorise your HF e-mail access frequency, mode and filter settings into the email channels and then be selected with a simple operation. Up to 160 e-mail frequency channels and connection terminals for a PC and e-mail modern are available.
Intuitive User Interface:
IC-M804 is easy to use thanks to the combination of a directional keypad and soft keys. The most common functions are signed to soft keys at the bottom of the display for quick push function access. Elsewhere, a large ten-key pad enables you to easily enter channel numbers, MMSI numbers with ID names and more.
Meets Strict Environmental Requirements:
Icom's IC-M804 is designed to provide reliable operation and corrosion resistant durability under harsh maritime environments. The transceiver has passed rigorous environmental testing and quality assurance processes.
NMEA2000 and NMEA 0183/-HS Connectivity:
Using NMEA2000 connectivity, the transceiver can exchange GNSS, DSC call information, radio information and PGN list data on the network. Furthermore, NMEA 0183/-HS GNSS position data can also be converted to NMEA2000 data for other equipment.
Two Minutes Voice Recorder Memory:
Voice recorder function automatically records the last two minutes of receiving audio.
Other Key Features:
0.5 - 29.999 MHz continuous receiver coverage.
Advanced RF direct sampling system employed.
Integrated GNSS receiver and supplied with a 5 metre cable GNSS antenna.
Programmable microphone buttons for quick function access.
Technical Specifications:
General:
Frequency Coverage:
- Receive: 500 kHz–29.9999 MHz (continuous).
- Transmit: 1.6–2.9999, 4.0–4.9999, 6.0–6.9999 / 8.0–8.9999, 12.0–13.9999, 16.0–17.9999 / 18.0–19.9999, 22.0–22.9999, 25.0–27.5000 MHz.
DSC: 2.1875, 4.2075, 6.3120, 8.4145, 12.5770, 16.8045 MHz.
Mode:
- TX/RX: J3E (USB), J2B (AFSK), F1B (FSK).
- RX Only: J3E (LSB), A1A (CW), H3E (AM).
- DSC: F1B.
Antenna Impedance: 50 (Unbalanced).
Frequency Stability:
- TX/RX: ±10 Hz (below 29.9999 MHz).
- DSC: ±10 Hz.
Power Supply Requirement: 10.8–15.6 V (12 V DC) / 21.6–31.2 V (24 V DC) (negative ground).
Current Drain:
- Receive: Less than 6 A (12 V)/3 A (24 V) (Max. audio output).
- Transmit: Less than 40 A (12 V)/20 A (24 V) (Max. output power) (with 1.1 kHz and 1.7 kHz AF input).
Usable Temperature Range: -15C to + 55C.
Dimensions:
- Main Unit (W x H x D): 367 x 95 x 260mm.
- Controller (W x H x D): 274 x 114 x 86mm.
Weight:
- Main Unit: 8.6kg.
- Controller: 760g.Â
Transmitter:
Output Power (at tuner output):
- 1.6–3.9999 MHz: 85W pep.
- 4.0–27.5000 MHz: 125W pep.
Spurious Emissions: Less than 50 dB peak output power (at Max. Power).
Carrier Suppression: More than 40 dB peak output power (at Max. Power).
Unwanted Sideband Suppression: More than 55 dB peak output power (at Max power with 1500 Hz AF input).
Sensitivity:
J3E, A1A:Â
- 0.5–1.5999 MHz: 30 dBμV emf (20 dB SINAD).
- 1.6–29.9999 MHz: 8 dBμV emf (20 dB SINAD).
J2B, F1B:
- 1.6–29.9999 MHz: 0 dBμV emf (1% error rate).
H3E:
- 0.5–1.5999 MHz: 44 dBμV emf (20 dB SINAD).
- - 1.6–3.9999 MHz: 24 dBμV emf (20 dB SINAD).
DSC Sensitivity: 0 dBμV emf (1% error rate).
Squelch Sensitivity: (Threshold) / (Tight)
J3E (at 12.230 MHz). Less than dBμV emf / Less than 96 dBμV emf.
H3E (at 1.000 MHz). Less than 36 dBμV emf / Less than 116 dBμV emf.
Spurious Response Rejection:
- J3E: More than 60 dB (1.6 – 29.9999 MHz).
DSC: More than 90 dBμV emf.
Audio Output Power: 4.0 W at 10% distortion with 4 Ω load.
Clarity Variable Range: ±150 Hz.
Applicable IP Rating:
Remote Controller: IPX7 (1m depth water for 30 minutes).
Supplied Accessories:
Hand microphone.
DC power cable.
GNSS antenna.
Remote controller and control cable.
Mounting bracket kit for the remote controller.
Mounting plates for the main unit.
- Margin:
- 10-15