New feature-packed B&G V50 offers advance sailing range

by Andrew Golden on 21 Sep 2013 B&G announced today the new V50 fixed mount, Digital Selective Calling (DSC) VHF radio and the H50 Wireless Handset. The B&G V50 combines a built-in dual channel AIS receiver and the latest VHF functionality, while the H50 Wireless handset offers an impressive range and inductive wireless charging perfect for use away from the chart table.

Class D compliant for global use, the new V50 VHF offers an integrated dual channel AIS receiver, allowing AIS reception and VHF use via just one antenna. In areas such as busy shipping lanes or bustling harbors, the V50 gives sailors the ability to see, hear and be heard for increased safety. Plug and play compatible with Zeus Touch, the B&G V50 will display other vessels’ distress calls on the chartplotter screen.

The V50 AIS/VHF radio has dedicated weather, menu and channel keys, separate volume and squelch knobs, and a Distress button, an ergonomic fist microphone, selectable Dual and TriWatch modes and a large internal speaker for clear audio. Waterproof to the JIS-7 standard, the V50’s additional features include the ability store up to 20 contacts with MMSI details directly onto the VHF and TrackYourBuddy™, which connects VHF DSC position polling with the Zeus and Zeus Touch to show the location of up to three sailing friends on the chart display.

'The new B&G sailing VHF radios offer unrivalled functionality and flexibility, from its AIS integration to the freedom to move around the sailboat with the H50 handset,' said Leif Ottosson, CEO, Navico. 'This VHF system is the ultimate on water radio solution for every sailor.'

Designed as a powerful and compact handheld solution, the innovative H50 remote handset is the perfect companion for the V50. Waterproof to the IPx7 standard, the H50 is energy efficient and always ready to use. The unit has an 8-hour battery life and charges wirelessly via a unique induction plate on the back of the device. The B&G H50 has an impressive range from the VHF base and can act as an intercom between another H50 unit or the V50 base station for seamless crew to navigator communication. Perfect for hands-free use to trim sails or move around more freely, the H50 also has a headphone jack and a belt clip.

The B&G V50 DSC VHF has a suggested retail price of US $399; the H50 handheld wireless device is available for US $169. Both are protected by the B&G Advantage Service Program and can be purchased from authorized B&G dealers and distributors throughout the United States and Canada. For more information on the B&G V50 and H50, compatible technology or the entire line of B&G marine electronics, contact 800-628-4487 (toll-free) in the USA or 800-661-3983 (toll-free) in Canada, or visit www.bandg.com.