Standard Horizon GX1850 Fixed Mount VHF Radio User Manual

1. Product Overview

The Standard Horizon GX1850 is a fixed-mount VHF marine radio designed for reliable communication on the water. It features NMEA 2000 compatibility for seamless integration with other marine electronics, ensuring enhanced navigation and safety. This model is built to withstand harsh marine environments, offering essential communication capabilities for various boating activities.

Figure 1: Front view of the Standard Horizon GX1850 Fixed Mount VHF Radio in white.

2. Setup

2.1 Mounting the Radio

The GX1850 is a fixed-mount unit. Select a secure and accessible location on your vessel, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. Ensure adequate ventilation around the unit. Use the provided mounting bracket and hardware to firmly attach the radio. Refer to the detailed mounting template in the separate installation guide for precise hole placement.

2.2 Power Connection

Connect the radio to a 12V DC power source. Ensure proper polarity (red to positive, black to negative) and use an inline fuse as specified in the installation manual to protect the unit from power surges.

2.3 Antenna Connection

Connect a suitable VHF marine antenna to the antenna connector on the rear of the radio. Ensure the connection is tight and waterproof to prevent signal loss and corrosion.

2.4 NMEA 2000 and GPS Integration

The GX1850 is NMEA 2000 compatible, allowing it to connect to your vessel's NMEA 2000 network for GPS data and other marine electronic information. Connect the NMEA 2000 cable to the appropriate port on the radio and your network backbone. While the radio is designed to integrate with external GPS sources via NMEA 2000, some users may experience challenges with automatic GPS data acquisition from certain chartplotters. In such cases, connecting via NMEA 0183 might be an alternative for GPS data input. Consult your chartplotter's manual for specific NMEA 0183 wiring instructions if NMEA 2000 integration is not immediately successful.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Powering On/Off and Volume Control

To power on the radio, rotate the VOLUME/SQUELCH knob clockwise. Continue rotating to adjust the volume. To power off, rotate the knob counter-clockwise until it clicks.

3.2 Channel Selection

Use the CHANNEL up/down buttons to select desired channels. The radio supports US, Canadian, and International marine channels. Press the ENT button to confirm channel selection or access menu options.

3.3 Transmit Power (1W/25W)

Toggle between 1 Watt (low power) and 25 Watts (high power) transmit settings using the 1W/25W button. Use low power for short-range communication to conserve battery and reduce interference, and high power for long-range or emergency transmissions.

3.4 Triple Watch Feature

Activate the Triple Watch function to monitor three channels simultaneously: your current working channel, Channel 16 (distress), and Channel 9 (hailing/emergency). This ensures you stay aware of critical communications while using other channels.

3.5 Digital Selective Calling (DSC) Distress

The radio features DSC distress capabilities. In an emergency, press and hold the DISTRESS button to send an automated digital distress alert with your vessel's identity and position (if GPS data is available) to the Coast Guard and other DSC-equipped vessels. Ensure your MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity) is programmed into the radio for full DSC functionality.

3.6 NOAA Weather Alerts

The GX1850 provides NOAA automatic instant weather alerts. This feature automatically switches the radio to the appropriate weather channel and sounds an alarm when a weather alert is broadcast, keeping you informed of changing conditions.

3.7 Noise-Canceling Microphone

The included microphone features noise-canceling technology to ensure clear voice transmission by reducing background noise, even in windy or noisy marine environments.

3.8 Rewind-Say-Again Feature

The Rewind-Say-Again feature automatically records the last 20 seconds of incoming transmissions. This allows you to replay missed calls or unclear messages, which is particularly useful in noisy conditions or when multitasking.

3.9 LCD Display and Illuminated Keys

The radio features a clear LCD display and illuminated function keys, making it easy to navigate menus and operate the radio in low-light conditions or at night.

4. Maintenance

4.1 Cleaning

Regularly clean the radio's exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, which can damage the casing and display. Ensure all connections are free of salt and corrosion.

4.2 Waterproofing

The GX1850 is rated IPX4 waterproof, meaning it is protected against splashing water from any direction. While it can withstand splashes, it is not designed for submersion. Ensure all covers and connections are securely fastened to maintain its water resistance.

4.3 Connection Checks

Periodically check all cable connections, including power, antenna, and NMEA cables, for tightness and signs of wear or corrosion. Loose or corroded connections can degrade performance.

5. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Check power cable connections, fuse, and vessel's battery. Ensure the VOLUME/SQUELCH knob is rotated clockwise past the click.
• No Reception/Transmission: Verify antenna connection. Check transmit power setting (1W/25W). Ensure squelch is properly adjusted (rotate counter-clockwise until static is heard, then slightly clockwise to silence).
• Poor Audio Quality: Check microphone connection. Ensure the noise-canceling microphone is not obstructed. Adjust volume and squelch.
• GPS Data Not Displaying (NMEA 2000): If the radio is not receiving GPS data from your NMEA 2000 network, first verify all NMEA 2000 connections are secure and the network is powered. Confirm that your GPS source (e.g., chartplotter) is correctly configured to output GPS data over NMEA 2000. If issues persist, consider connecting the GPS source via NMEA 0183 if supported by your equipment, ensuring correct wiring and baud rates. Refer to the radio's and your GPS device's manuals for specific NMEA 0183 connection details.
• DSC Distress Not Functioning: Ensure your MMSI number is correctly programmed into the radio. Verify GPS data is being received by the radio, as position information is crucial for DSC distress calls.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty & Support

7.1 Warranty Information

The Standard Horizon GX1850 Fixed Mount VHF Radio comes with a manufacturer's warranty. For specific details regarding warranty coverage, duration, and terms, please refer to the warranty card included with your product packaging or visit the official Standard Horizon website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

7.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or service inquiries, please contact Standard Horizon customer support. Contact information can typically be found on the manufacturer's website or in the product documentation.