Lowrance, a world-leading brand in marine electronics since 1957 and GPS navigational systems since 1992 — have today announced its new fixed-mount, 25-watt Digital Selective Calling (DSC) VHF radio, the Lowrance Link-8. Equipped to receive Automatic Identification System (AIS) vessel data, the new VHF has an NMEA 2000® interface and is Class D compliant for worldwide use. The Lowrance Link-8 combines reliable performance, a best-in-class LCD display and an unparalleled feature set — all at an exceptional price.
Designed to enhance safety on the water, the Link-8 includes a built-in, dual-channel AIS receiver that displays critical collision avoidance data from AIS-equipped vessels in range. Accessible information includes vessel name, type, call sign, MMSI number, IMO number, and draft and size, as well as vessel position, speed over ground (SOG), course over ground (COG), rate of turn, heading, status, destination and ETA.
When connected to a compatible Lowrance multifunction display, the Link-8 enables an exclusive 'Track Your Buddy' feature that connects DSC position polling via the NMEA 2000 network for GPS location display of up to three boating friends. Additional advanced capabilities include GPS navigation and Man Over Board (MOB) functionality.
'The Lowrance Link-8 delivers our signature reliability with advanced features for superior performance at a great price,' said Louis Chemi, chief operating officer, Navico Americas. 'Providing AIS functionality for enhanced safety and an NMEA 2000 interface for networking, the Link-8 VHF is the ultimate on-the-water communication device.'
The Link-8 VHF radio has a large, easy-to-view, 128 x 256-pixel LCD measuring 1.3 x 2.6 in. (3.3 x 6.6 cm) with adjustable backlighting, plus a large 57mm built-in speaker with four Watt output that allows for the connection of additional speakers. Delivering all USA, Canadian and International marine channels, the system provides easy access to all DSC functions.
Designed for quick access to functions especially when safety is a concern, the new radio’s has an intuitive and efficient interface with a large rotary knob for simple channel changing, menu navigation and setting control. A best-in-class microphone offers six quick keys for simple and reliable helm operation, features an easy-grip rubber molding cover for secure holding and operation and also has an additional speaker. The VHF is also equipped with an extra large Channel 16 key, dedicated volume and squelch knobs, weather keys, selectable Dual and TriWatch modes, local and distant functions, and three user-selectable channels.
The Link-8 logs up to 10 distress calls and 20 individual DSC calls. DSC control keys include (priority) 16/9, WX, 3CH/+/- for quick channel changing, Call, Exit, Scan and Menu. Additional system features include a rotary volume control with power on/off, hailer horn output with listen back capabilities, auto and manual FOG, all-channel priority and memory channel scans, 20 user-programmable names with MMSI, 10 weather channels with a 1050 Hz tone alert, RS232 and RS422 output and a second receiver for Channel 70.
The Lowrance Link-8’s ultra-rugged waterproof chassis complements the color and styling of award-winning Lowrance HDS® multifunction displays. Offering selectable 25/1-watt transmit power and NMEA 2000 and 0183 compatibility, it is waterproof to the IPx7 standard (submersible) and comes with a flush-mount kit and a sun cover. The Lowrance Link-8 radio is protected by a 2-year limited warranty, and is supported for an additional three years by the Lowrance 5-Year Advantage Program, which allows customers to upgrade to the latest technology, at a discounted price, in the unlikely event that a product fails or needs repair.
Available February 2013, the Lowrance Link-8 VHF can be purchased from authorized dealers and distributors throughout the United States and Canada for $299 USD. For more information on the Lowrance Link-8 or the entire line of Lowrance marine electronics, or to locate an authorized Lowrance dealer, please visit www.lowrance.com.
Burke Marine
Burke Marine, suppliers of international quality marine clothing and equipment, was founded by Martin Burke on the shores of Sydney Harbour in 1971. Visit our website for your nearest stockist. [More info]
http://www.burkemarine.com.au
Ensign Ship Brokers
Ensign Ship Brokers was established in 1980 and has spent the last 28 years expanding our marine knowledge and developing our reputation! We strive to provide the very best service! [More info]
http://www.ensignbrokers.com.au/
GME Standard Communications Pty Ltd
Leaders in communications and navigation. Their goal has always been to make products whose innovation, convenience and peace of mind can help improve the lives of their customers. [More info]
http://www.gme.net.au
Hamilton Island Luxury Accommodation
Full range of private apartments, villas and houses on Hamilton Island. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 bedroom options available. All include buggy and island airport or marina transfers. [More info]
http://www.whitsundayholidays.com.au
Multihull Solutions
Multihull Solutions is Australia and New Zealand’s premier offshore and cruising catamaran and trimaran specialist, offering sales and servicing of the world’s finest multihull brands.
[More info]
http://www.multihullsolutions.com.au
Navionics Australia
Navionics is proud of its superb cartographic database comprising more than 25,000 charts and port plans; the largest privately owned database of its kind, the only one using full seamless technology [More info]
http://www.navionics.com.au
OziOpti
OziOpti is all about 'getting kids in boats' and the Australian company supporting the introduction to of the world’s most popular junior sailing yacht, the 'International Optimist Dinghy' [More info]
http://www.oziopti.com.au
Performance Sailcraft Australia (Asia Pacific)
Laser builder Performance Sailcraft Australia has taken on the successful RS Sailboat range from Britain, and is now licensed to build and distribute all of the RS range in the Asia Pacific region. [More info]
http://www.lasersailing.com.au
Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show
2013 Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show is Australasia's most significant marine lifestyle event. We look forward to welcoming you to the 25th annual event. [More info]
http://www.sanctuarycoveboatshow.com.au/
Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week
Entries for the fourth annual Sealink Magnetic Island Race Week have opened! 4 days of racing, 5 days of fun – that is what you can look forward to from 3-7 September at Magnetic Island. [More info]
http://www.magneticislandraceweek.com.au
Ullman Sails
For over 45 years, Ullman Sails has been devoted to helping our customers reach their sailing goals. [More info]
http://www.ullmansails.com
VicSail Sydney
Vicsail Sydney Pty Ltd, launched into the Australian sailing fraternity in 1983 and has been sailing strong ever since. At Vicsail, “We Sail the Boats We Sell”. [More info]
http://www.vicsailsydney.com.au