Lowrance release new VHF

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. 

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