Modular VHF Radios From Raymarine

Two new marine VHF radios with DSC have been introduced by Raymarine, the Ray 215E and Ray 230E radiotelephones offer an impressive array of features. One of the key features of the new radios is ETSI Approved Class-D DSC (Digital Select Calling), which provides extra security in emergency situations.

The Ray 230E, the flagship of Raymarine's VHF product line, offers a unique modular design allowing the receiver/transmitter box to be mounted in a location that's out of the way, leaving just the waterproof cellular-style handset and loudspeaker exposed on the dash. Handsets and speakers can be positioned in up to three locations so that the radio is always within reach.

The alphanumeric keypad and large display are easy to use and the powerful loudspeaker provides superb audio quality, even when installed on the flybridge. Phone calls can be placed and received from the handset via hardwired dockside phone lines, or via the RAYCOM cell phone module when the Ray 230E is equipped with the optional Dual Tone Multi Frequency (DTMF) phone interface.

For boats where a traditional style marine VHF radio is appropriate, the full featured Ray 215E is an ideal choice and can be easily upgraded to Class D-DSC. Priced moderately, the Ray 215E is designed with all controls built into the front fascia and is equipped with a simple telephone style handset including a duplicate set of controls for channel up/down, instant access to Channel 16, built in microphone and earpiece loudspeaker. Upgrading the Ray 215E to full class D-DSC is as simple as adding an optional full function alphanumeric handset.

Enquiries: Oceantalk.
Tel: 1800 029 948.
E-mail: sales@oceantalk.com.au
Website: www.oceantalk.com.au

Okuma Epix Rods

Okuma has expanded its Australian range with the release of the Epix rods.

Built on graphite blanks with Kevlar mesh reinforcing, they feature correctly spaced Fuji guides, Fuji cushioned reel seats, top quality cork grips and rod bag.

The Epix range includes four one-piece baitcast rods, all 5ft 6in long with recessed trigger and reel seats and straight grip. Also available is a 6ft one piece medium weight baitcast rod and two 6ft spinning rods, in one and two piece for light fishing.

The 7ft two piece nibble tip and a 6ft telescopic rod in sections is ideal for backpacking.

Enquiries: Fishing tackle specialists throughout Australia.

EFI for Mid-range Four-strokes

EFI management systems are now available in Mercury's mid-range four-stroke engines. The mid-range engines are all compatible with the same Smartcraft technology available with the Optimax and new release MerCruiser models.

Mercury says that EFI has improved the fuel efficiency over carburetted four-stroke models and up to 40 per cent better fuel efficiency than conventional two-stroke outboards.

Like the entire Mercury four-stroke range, the mid-range EFI outboards come in various configurations. All models are available with tiller control, electric start and Bigfoot configuration. The 30 and 40hp models are also available in short or long shaft.

Enquiries: Mercury dealers.
Tel: 1800 818 000.
Website: www.mercurymarine.com.au

Humminbird Legend

Humminbird has released a new Legend series of fishfinders for the serious anglers.

The Legend 1005, 2005 and 3005 feature RTS (Real Time Sonar) giving up to 30 updates per second, large control knobs for ease of use in all weather conditions and the 3005 has a Mode control for Auto, Manual and Bottom Lock Zoom.

The models are available for shallow water use, such as estuaries, lakes and bays to 185 metres and deep water use with depth capabilities to 600 metres. Features include Film Super Twist Nematic (FSTN) display, eight and 16 level Grayscale Liquid Paper Graph, 500 watts RMS or 4000 watts Peak to Peak power.

Enquiries: Bob Littler Agencies
Tel: 07 3890 1115
Website: www.bla.com.au

Mercury Marine markets Quicksilver OptiMax/DFI oil especially for OptiMax outboards. By combining synthetic additives with a modified base stock blend, Quicksilver OptiMax/DFI oil can minimise carbon build up and increase lubrication. It also assists fuel economy and helps to reduce smoke. Mercury recommends OptiMax/DFI oil for use in all other DFI outboards, including those using FICHT technology. Enquiries: Mercury Marine Tel: 1800 818 000 Website: www.mercurymarine.com.au

Enquiries: Muir Engineering.
Tel: (03) 6229 5188. Fax: (03) 6229 7030.
E-mail: info@muir.com.au

Lowrance Australia will distribute Geonav GPS chart plotters and autopilots with the initial product release to include four models from the top end of the market.

The range starts with the Geonav 8 Sunshine model that comes with a 6.4in TFT sunlight visible colour display and 32MB CompactFlash memory card. The Geonav 11 Sun monochrome unit is similar to the 8 Sunshine and has a 9.4in sunlight display.

At the top of the range is the Geonav 11 Sunshine and the Geonav 11 Flash. Both units have 10.4in super high resolution TFT displays, the Sunshine model is suitable for use in direct sunlight while the backlit Flash requires a shaded mounting point.

In addition to the 32MB of CompactFlash memory, features include; NMEA2000 interface as well as NMEA0183, Easy Pilot, chart rotation and screen amplifier.

Lowrance is also distributing the Geonav AP801 and AP401 autopilot systems. The units feature automatic compensation of the electronic compass with a 360-degree rotation of the boat, NMEA 0183 inputs and an optional NMEA 2000 output with the addition of an expansion card.

Enquiries: Lowrance.

Tel: (02) 9905 9700

Personal EPIRBs

Pains Wessex has launched two compact personal EPIRB's - the Fastfind and Fastfind plus.

The Fastfind plus features a built in GPS receiver combined with a 406MHz transmitter, providing coordinates to give a position within 30 metres.

The Fastfind is a standard 406MHz version that provides an alert signal within 90 minutes of transmission and positional accuracy within approximately three nautical miles.

The units feature a simple two-stage emergency activation system with a built-in antenna that automatically deploys on operation and replaceable battery packs.

There is also an optional multi-purpose fixing device that enables the hand held units to be attached to clothing.

Enquiries: Marine outlets.