The Standard Horizon GX1800 is a compact VHF marine radio that’s second station capable. It’s a powerful device with a 25W output and a bright backlight. It’s robust with an IPX8 water rating. This VHF radio is a premium application and it’s exceptionally budget-friendly.
To find out more about what the Standard Horizon GX1800 radio can offer you, read this short product review below. You can also check out our full list of the be best marine VHF radios to help ensure your making the right choice for your boat.
What is a VHF Radio?
A VHF (Very High Frequency) radio has a range between 156MHz and 174MHz. It’s the UTI for the range of radiofrequency or waves from 30 to 300 megahertz with wavelengths of 6 to 60 miles.
VHF uses line of sight propagation which is the direct propagation of radio waves between antennas that are visible to each other. The maximum distance of line of sight propagation is approximately 25 miles due to the curvature of the earth. It’s referred to as the radio horizon.
Radio waves bend but the higher the frequency the less the waves bend. You can extend the range of your communications on VHF radios by increasing the height of the application’s antenna.
What are VHF Radios Used for?
A VHF marine radio is a safety device needed for boats. It can be a fixed application but this is typically installed on larger vessels or handheld devices for sailors or fishermen. The VHF radio is a telecommunications device that allows you to call for help during an emergency when you’re out at sea.
The international distress frequency is on channel 16 and it’s monitored by the United States Coast Guard 24/7. The radio is also a way to communicate with harbors, locks, bridges and other mariners.
About Standard Horizon
Standard Horizon is a well-known brand that has been manufacturing marine communication devices for over 50 years. The Standard Horizon company is a leading developer in the industry as they deliver high-quality marine radios for the avid boater.
GX1800G is an Upgrade from GX1600 and GX1700
The Standard Horizon GX1800G is the latest upgrade in the range of VHF marine radios. It’s a fixed mount radio that comes with all the features of the GX1600 and GX1700 devices but with an integrated GPS feature with 66 channels.
GX1800 Features
Standard Horizon’s GX1800 VHF marine radio is easy to mount anywhere on your boat. The device comes with mounting brackets and knobs to secure the application so it doesn’t move or fall.
The GX1800 VHF radio comes with a power cord so you can stay connected at all times. This marine radio comes with a mic clip so you can communicate with anyone hands-free.
Standard Horizon’s GX1800 marine VHF radio has a user-friendly interface that allows you to browse through the menu easily. Here you can find all the features you need such as backlight adjustments and connecting the device to a compatible GPS unit.
Channels
The GX1800 device is connected to all current marine channels and it can be switched to USA or Canadian regions. You can easily connect to the emergency channel number 16 by pressing the 16/s key on your device.
Range
Standard Horizon’s GX1800 VHF radio has a frequency range of 156.025MHz to 161.600MHz (internationally) for the transmitter. The frequency range for the voice and DSC is 156.050MHz to 163.275MHz.
Product Dimensions
The Standard Horizon GX1800 VHF compact radio has dimensions of 5.9" x 3.4" x 2.2".
Connectivity
This VHF radio has NMEA0183 connectivity which is a point to point connection used to interconnect navigation equipment. It also eliminates connection interference and ground loops.
GX1800G vs. GX1800
As mentioned before, the GX1800GPS has an integrated GPS feature with a compass, waypoint, and status information so you know exactly how close you are to your destination.
This application comes with 66 channels that you can connect to. You also have the option to pre-set up to 10 channels so you can connect to them faster. The GX1800G VHF marine radio also has an intercom feature so you can communicate with a second station.
Use the separate receiver for CH70 to receive DSC calls.
GX1800
The GX1800 VHF is slightly different from the GX1800G but with some similarities as well. It doesn’t come with a GPS feature but you can connect a compatible device easily. The GX1800 meets ITU-R M493-13 digital selective calling.
GX1800 vs. GX1850
Standard Horizon’s GX1850 VHF radio has NME2000 connectivity which allows easy plug-and-play to the NMEA bus. You can connect the GX1850 to a compatible GPS and DSC calling devices.
The GX1800 comes with all the features and accessories that the GX1850 devices have, such as the smart antenna & E20 operation capabilities but it has RAM4 Second Station compatibility. This means that the main radio can be controlled on the second station RAM4, including all radio stations, Intercom and DSC functions.
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Final Thoughts
A VHF radio should be a part of your standard boating equipment and it’s not an application you should compromise on. It’s essential that you select the correct device for your boat so that you’re always connected to emergency channels.
But besides the safety aspect of the VHF radio, it’s also a way to communicate with other boaters, mariners and the harbor. Your VHF radio should be charged at all times so you can communicate effectively when you need to.
The GX1800 VHF marine radio is a high-quality device that’s durable and comes with all the accessories you need to perform ship-to-ship & ship-to-shore communications. It’s highly durable and can withstand almost any weather conditions.
So if you’re looking for a quality VHF radio, the GX1800 is a solid choice. It is easy to mount and to operate, making your boating adventures secure & enjoyable.
