(KIRKLAND, Wash.) — Icom America announces the new M506 Series, a product set of VHF fixed-mount marine radios. The M506 radio is available in five options and includes built-in Automatic Identification System (AIS) and an NMEA 0183/2000 interface (depending on version). All M506 versions feature Class D DSC, advanced audio capabilities and an intuitive soft-key user interface design.
The M506 Series radios have built-in Class D DSC for maximum safety and advanced audio features. "Last Call" voice recording/playback automatically saves the last two minutes of an incoming call. Icom's signature active noise cancelling technology reduces background noise up to 90 percent and improves audio and incoming/outgoing calls.
The M506 AIS versions feature an integrated AIS receiver, plug-and-play NMEA 0183/2000 connectivity and either front or rear microphone capability. Both AIS options (M506 AIS Front and M506 AIS Rear) display vessel traffic information on the radio's large dot-matrix display. Additionally, the AIS feature supports a target call for individual DSC and access to plotter, target and danger lists.
The M506 Series also includes two N2K options and a basic version. The former options — M506 N2K Front and M506 N2K Rear — feature an NMEA 0183/2000 interface and either a front or rear mic. The M506 NMEA basic version has NMEA 0183 installed.
All M506 versions utilize Icom's new intuitive soft-key user interface and a 136×96 pixels display. Other built-in features include a 25W two-way hailer and COMMANDMICIV compatibility. The M506 Series is rated IPX8 and can be submersed in 3.2 feet of water for one hour. Supplied accessories include the fixed mount unit, a hand microphone, DC power cable and mounting bracket kit.
The M506 Series is available now with a suggested retail pricing starting at $675. Interested parties should visit the M506 product page on Icom America's website for additional information.