Icom IP-M60 Hybrid Handheld Comms

Icom’s IP-M60 combines marine and onshore comms in a user-friendly handheld. Courtesy Icom America

Icom’s IP-M60 harnesses cellular and VHF radio frequencies in a single device. This combination lets mariners tackle line-of-sight VHF radio communications while using cellular frequencies to reach vessels that are over the horizon or obstructed by structures or terrain. The IP-M60 ($1,100) can be used to call crewmembers ashore—or vice versa—over cellular frequencies without violating Federal Communications Commission regulations.

IP-M60s have full-duplex push-to-talk (PTT) functionality, meaning users can simultaneously talk and listen.

While Icom developed hybrid-communications technology for another sector, the IP-M60 is its first marine-facing hybrid offering. “The IP-M60 challenge was to improve the user experience associated with the dual PTT function,” says Mark Behrends, Icom’s senior marketing manager, noting that the IP-M60 has two PTT buttons: one for cellular and another for marine. The PTT functionality automatically switches between cellular and VHF radio based on how calls are received and geography (onshore communications are switched to cellular).

Feature-Filled

IP-M60s have four operating modes: cellular (LTE/3G); marine (VHF radio); combined cellular and marine; and relay. The relay mode allows IP-M60s to act as relay stations between onshore comms and other VHF radios. Icom’s cellular coverage costs $25 per month per handheld. Each IP-M60 has dual SIM card slots, with one reserved for future applications. Icom’s Automatic Firmware Update and Provisioning feature works over LTE connections to keep IP-M60s up to date. IP-M60s also have dual- and tri-watch functionality, plus a Channel 16 button.

Take the next step: icomamerica.com

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