Great Marine radio with DSC and built in gps. It is nice to know that with a push of the red emergency button the radio will automatically send a distress call to the coast guard. The system is suppose to repeat that distress call from any boat with similar radio features until the coast guard gets it. DSC calling is nice, you can call another DSC equipped radio without calling on Channel 16. You can even do a position request, or set it up to give out your position to everyone, or just one personally selected person with DSC radio. I had some relatives who went out on a small boat without a radio. 2 of the 4 did not make it back alive. Don't leave the dock without some type of marine radio, even if it is a less expensive model.
Time to replace my trusted HX370S! And, naturally I compared the new HX870 to its predecessor.
The HX870 is noticeably larger and also noticeable lighter, which helps ensure it will float. I like the feel of both in my hand, although the HX370 feels like an old friend.
The screen on the HX870 is larger for obvious reasons. I found the menu system to be straightforward and easy to use, even though the instructions are a little confusing (at least for me). The GPS is relatively quick to acquire a position, typically less than 15 seconds. Interestingly, the compass function seems a little sluggish when changing directions.
Waypoint and route creation are easy to use, although screen size limits usability for serious navigation. Adequate in a pinch and better than nothing, but I won't be relying on the HX870 for navigation purposes.
MMSI was a must and getting it set-up was quick and easy.
Overall I'm pleased with the HX870 and if it is as bullet proof as the HX370S, it will be another 10-years before I have to look for a replacement!
So far it does all that I have tried and I put in channels for scanning and the NOAA WX alert and it worked. Fairly easy to program manually and straightforward programming and it was designed to have major functions easily accessable.
Comments Part 2: The super value of this radio is its DCS emergency capability and for that you need to apply and obtain an MMSI number. I had no problem getting a good, easy to fill out application form from the Power Squadron website.
which does require to register log on with a password:
The Man-Machine-interface is fairly easy to master and programming the radio is straightforward if not a little tedious. Note: the MMSI application works just fine for an unregistered kayak and does not require precise description of the kayak in case one has more than one kayak.
My only fault with the radio is you must enter the MMSI number in without a failure and once it is in you would have to send the unit to the factory for reset.
I have checked the MMSI number operation with a fellow boater and it worked. (there is a non-emergency process to use MMSI numbers to contact other MMSI numbered boats.
If you want to get a better antenna you will need an adapter to connect to standard SO239 antenna cables. I got : https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MFRMLIA/ref=cfb_at_prodpg
and it worked well with my base antenna.
It is hard to imagine how Standard Horizon can keep improving such a mundane item as a VHF, but they do. This is my second SH with GPS and the easiest to program and use-especially with the ability to put my DSC address book on from my PC. If only the mounted units could do the same-I am sure the next iteration will! The only missing option is a scrambler. If you use DSC, this is the unit to have.
There's little question why this radio is consistently rated as the #1 hand-held VHF... quality in every respect! Even the packaging is top notch. I have a Standard Horizon Matrix GX2200 (with AIS/GPS/DSC) onboard my blue water sailboat. This is the perfect companion for crew going ashore and for trips out to the reefs in my dinghy, while cruising in the Bahamas.
The product arrive in a very timely manor as promised, which was critical, since I was about to head out on a long road trip in my RV.
I couldn't be happier!
Feature Product
- Floating 6W Handheld VHF with Internal GPS; Supplied with a 1800 mAh Li-Ion Battery, 110VAC and 12VDC 3-hour quick chargersAlkaline Battery Tray
- Meets ITU-R M493-13 Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
- Separate Receiver for CH70 (Receiving DSC Calls)
- Integrated 66 Channel WAAS GPS receiver.Submersible IPX8 waterproof rating (1.5M or 4.92 feet for 30 minutes)
- Noise-canceling Function for both transmit and receive audio
Description
Handheld VHF, MFG# HX870, 6 Watts transmit power, Integrated GPS, Class D DSC w/ separate receiver, 2.3" display, waypoint navigation, MOB function, submersible, strobe, noise cancelling TX/RX, USB port.
So much in such a small package. Been testing it out before the 10 day Charter on our small Crab Potter (15'). The GPS and NAV is such a great feature. Been using it to mark our Crab Pots, and is very accurate! easy to use, and nice to not have separate gear. Knowing its all in one and waterproof the best. The Compass Mode, also displays SOG so that is great to have on that screen too. Highly Recommend!
I needed the earlier, non-GPS version of this to get in and out of Crowley's, on Lake Michigan--the 92 and 95 Street bridges. This version is unbelievable. If you have a memory for Lat/Long numbers and know your starting point, you are never lost. If you would rather program a waypoint, or multiple waypoints, those are freebees. You have no need for a fancy GPS moving map. This is the best.
Needed a new VHF for off shore kayak fishing. All my ICOM just stop working, people can't hear me or just doesn't float.
This radio was used in a tournament and people could hear me clearly from good distance.
Highly recommend
This is a 'must have' radio for boaters, sailors and anyone on the ocean. The ease of use and set up is great. the screen is easy to see and the menus are very intuitive. Standard Horizon always delivers a quality product. Also - check for a rebate - possible $40 ??
Saved my life. Got lost in the fog in the ocean, was able to get hold of the coast guard.
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