Lowrance Link-6S VHF Radio Operator Manual

Link™-6S

Fixed Mount VHF

User Guide

ENGLISH

lowrance.com

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Preface

Disclaimer

As Navico is continuously improving this product, we retain the right to make changes to the product at any time which may not be reflected in this version of the manual. Please contact your nearest distributor if you require any further assistance.

It is the owner’s sole responsibility to install and use the equipment in a manner that will not cause accidents, personal injury or property damage. The user of this product is solely responsible for observing safe boating practices.

NAVICO HOLDING AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES, BRANCHES AND

AFFILIATES DISCLAIM ALL LIABILITY FOR ANY USE OF THIS PRODUCT

IN A WAY THAT MAY CAUSE ACCIDENTS, DAMAGE OR THAT MAY

VIOLATE THE LAW.

Governing Language: This statement, any instruction manuals, user guides and other information relating to the product

(Documentation) may be translated to, or has been translated from, another language (Translation). In the event of any conflict between any Translation of the Documentation, the English language version of the Documentation will be the official version of the

Documentation.

This manual represents the product as at the time of printing.

Navico Holding AS and its subsidiaries, branches and affiliates reserve the right to make changes to specifications without notice.

Copyright

Copyright © 2020 Navico Holding AS.

Warranty

The warranty card is supplied as a separate document.

In case of any queries, refer to the brand website of your unit or system: www.lowrance.com

Licensing Information

•

The user is advised to check the radio operating licensing requirements of your country before using this VHF radio. The operator is solely responsible for observing proper radio installation and usage practices.

| Link-6S User Guide

In some regions/countries, a Radio Operator’s license is required and it is your responsibility to determine whether such a license is required before operating the radio.

•

The frequencies used by this radio are reserved for Maritime use only and those frequencies must be included on your Radio

Operator’s license.

•

A valid USER MMSI number must be entered into this radio before

DSC functions can be used. You must apply for an MMSI number which is usually obtained from the same authority that issues the radio operator’s license. Contact the appropriate licensing authority in your country. If you’re unsure who to contact, consult your Simrad dealer.

•

A valid ATIS ID number must be entered into this radio before ATIS functions can be used. An ATIS ID number is issued by Ofcom when you add one or more pieces of ATIS equipment to your Ship Radio

License.

RF emissions statements

European Union

This Link-6S complies with CE under RED Directive 2014/53/EU.

The relevant Declaration of conformity is available in the product’s section at the following website: www.navico.com

United States

Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and

(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Warning

The user is cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

RF Emissions notice

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This device’s antenna must be installed in accordance with provided instructions; and it must be operated with minimum “place number here” m spacing between the antennas and all person’s body (excluding extremities of hands, wrist and feet) during operation. Further, this transmitter must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other


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antenna or transmitter.

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Note:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part

15 of the FCC Rules. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that the interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

•

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

•

Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

•

Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that of the receiver is connected.

•

Consult the dealer or an experienced technician for help.

Canada

This device complies with Innovation, Science and Economic

Development Canada’s (ISED) licence-exempt RSSs. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

1.

This device may not cause interference; and

2.

This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada (ISDE) applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes:

1.

l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et

2.

l’utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnemen.

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED)

Under Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

(ISED) regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain approved for the transmitter by ISED Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to


other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.

Conformément à la réglementation d’Innovation, Sciences et

Développement économique Canada (ISDE), le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une antenne d’un type et d’un gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l’émetteur par ISDE Canada.

Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à l’intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type d’antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée quivalente

(p.i.r.e.) ne dépassepas l’intensité nécessaire à l’établissement d’une communication satisfaisante.

This radio transmitter (Link-6S) has been approved by Innovation,

Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) to operate with

the antenna types listed in “ACCESSORIES” on page 44 with the

maximum permissible gain and required antenna impedance for each antenna type indicated. Antenna types not included in this list, having a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated for that type, are strictly prohibited for use with this device.

Le présent émetteur radio (Link-6S) a été approuvé par Innovation,

Sciences et Développement économique Canada (ISDE) pour fonctionner avec les types d’antenne énumérés (reportez-vous

à “ACCESSORIES” à la page 44) et ayant un gain admissible

maximal et l’impédance requise pour chaque type d’antenne. Les types d’antenne non inclus dans cette liste, ou dont le gain est supérieur au gain maximal indiqué, sont strictement interdits pour l’exploitation de l’émetteur.

Australia & New Zealand

Complies with the requirements of level 2 devices of the

Radiocommunications (Electromagnetic Compatibility) standard

2017 and Radiocommunications (VHF Radiotelephone Equipment –

Maritime Mobile Service) Standard 2014.


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Countries of intended use in the EU

AT - Austria

BE - Belgium

BG - Bulgaria

HU - Hungary

IS - Iceland

IE - Ireland

CY - Cyprus IT - Italy

CZ - Czech Republic LV - Latvia

DK - Denmark

EE - Estonia

LI - Liechtenstein

LT - Lithuania

FI - Finland

FR - France

DE - Germany

GR - Greece

LU - Luxembourg

MT - Malta

NL - Netherlands

NO - Norway

PL - Poland

PT - Portugal

RO - Romania

SK - Slovak Republic

SI - Slovenia

ES - Spain

SE - Sweden

CH - Switzerland

TR - Turkey

UK - United Kingdom

Trademarks

Link™ is a common law trademark of Navico Holding AS.

Lowrance® and Navico® are registered trademarks of Navico Holding

AS.

NMEA® and NMEA 2000® are registered trademarks of the National

Marine Electronics Association.

®Reg. U.S. Pat. & Tm. Off, and ™ common law marks.

Visit www.navico.com/intellectual-property to review the global trademark rights and accreditations for Navico Holding AS and other entities.

Notes on MMSI and DSC

The user MMSI (Marine Mobile Service Identity) is a unique nine digit number. It is used on marine transceivers that are capable of using DSC (Digital Selective Calling). Digital Selective Calling offers significant safety and convenience advantages over older VHF radios without this functionality.

¼

Note:

Many countries do not have radio repeaters that support DSC message relaying. However DSC can still be useful for direct ship-toship communication, where the other vessel is also equiped with a

DSC capable radio.

You must obtain a user MMSI and enter it into your radio in order to use the DSC functions. Contact the appropriate authorities in your country to obtain an MMSI number - charges may apply. If you are


unsure who to contact, consult your Lowrance dealer.

¼

Note:

DSC distress calls generated by this radio are limited to the same range restrictions that apply to regular VHF transmissions. The vessel sending a distress can only rely upon DSC if within range of a

GMDSS Coast Radio Station. Typical VHF range may be about 20NM, though this varies greatly depending upon installation, antenna type, meteorological conditions, etc.

About this manual

This manual is a reference guide for installing and operating a

Link-6S VHF radio. Important text that requires special attention from the reader is emphasized as follows:

¼

Note:

Used to draw the reader’s attention to a comment or some important information.

!

Warning:

Used when it is necessary to warn personnel that they should proceed carefully to prevent risk of injury and/or damage to equipment/personnel.


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Contents

9 General Information

10 How to display and navigate menus

13 Key functions

16 The radio menus

16 Scan

17 Watch

18 Display

19 Radio setup

22 DSC setup

24 Alarms

25 Reset

26 DSC call menu

26 DSC calls

28 Track buddy

29 Contacts

31 My channels

32 Shortcuts

33 Installation

33 Checklist

34 Installation options

34 Selecting a suitable mounting location

39 First startup configuration

42 Specifications

45 Channel charts

45 EU and International channel chart

53 USA channel chart

55 Canada channel chart

58 Dimensional drawings

Contents | Link-6S User Guide

1

General Information

Your Link-6S provides the following useful features:

•

Prominent channel display

•

Built-in GPS receiver and antenna

•

With external GPS antenna connection

•

Adjustable contrast settings for the LCD

•

Adjustable keypad backlighting for easy night-time use

•

Waterproof and submersible to comply with IPx7

•

GPS latitude and longitude (LL) and time display (when connected to a GPS source)

•

Choice of High (25 W) or Low (1 W) transmission power

•

4 key handset mic with built-in speaker

•

Powerful 4 W external audio output

•

Access to all currently-available marine VHF channel banks (USA,

Canada, International) including weather channels where available

(model dependant)

•

Dedicated CH16/9 key for quick access to the priority (international distress) channel

•

TRI key to select DUAL/TRI scan

•

Dedicated Wx (Weather) key

•

DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capability that meets Global DSC

Class D Standards

•

Separate CH70 receiver included built in

•

DISTRESS call button to automatically transmit the MMSI and position until an acknowledgement is received

•

Contacts list that stores up to 50 names with MMSI numbers

•

MMSI storage for three favourite groups

•

Group Call and All Ships Call facility

•

LL position polling information

•

Weather alert facility where available (US mode)

•

ATIS facility for inland waterways (EU mode)

•

With DSC Auto-Switch disable and DSC Test function

General Information | Link-6S User Guide

| 9

How to display and navigate menus

The majority of the buttons, and both of the rotary knobs, can open menus with multiple options.

The channel knob is used to scroll through the options. The currently selected option is indicated by a black highlight bar, and the text is inverted to white.

Selection of a highlighted option is made by pressing the channel knob.

If a list of options is too long for the page, a scroll bar is shown on the right side of the screen. The black rectangle on the scroll bar indicates the highlighted options relative position in the list.

Scroll bar indicates further options above and below displayed text

Press the Exit button to step backwards to the previous menu page, or exit the menus completely.

Entry of alphanumeric data

Rotate the channel knob to scroll through the alphanumeric characters.

Press channel knob, to select and step to the next character.

To step backwards, press the MENU button. Press X to cancel entry and return to previous menu.

LCD symbols and meanings

When the Link-6S starts up it momentarily displays the brand, model, region, software version, and MMSI.

10 |


During normal operation, the following icons may be displayed on the screen depending on setup:

Symbol Meaning

Transmitting

Transmition power

Weather channel stored by user (EU & INT only)

Weather alert enabled (USA/CAN only)

Receiver Busy with incoming signal

Missed DSC call

Duplex channel selected (off when Simplex)

Local mode enabled (used when in areas of high radio traffic, ie inner harbour)

Channel can only be received on

DSC functionality is enabled

DSC functionality is enabled, auto switching is turned off

EU models only - must be enabled when in European inland waterways

Low Battery warning (activates at 10.5 V)

Channel bank is set to USA

Channel bank is set to International. (Channels available depends on selected Country mode)

Channel bank is set to Canada

Weather channel bank active replaces channelbank icon temporarily (USA/CAN only)

Channel is saved in the MY CHANNELS list

Track your Buddy feature is active

TRI watch or DUAL scan is active

GPS simulator is active


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A typical display:

1.

Channel is set to high power transmit

2.

Missed call in the DSC call log

3.

Channel is busy

4.

Volume is under active control

5.

Current channel saved in ‘My Channels’

6.

Track your buddy is enabled

7.

Current channel will be skipped during a scan

8.

Volume level indicator

9.

Time (derived from GPS) - UTC offset is applied

10.

Latitude/Longitude

11.

Squelch level indicator

12.

Channel number (2 or 4 digits)

13.

The USA channel bank is active

14.

DSC functionality is enabled, but autoswitch is off

15.

Weather alert function is enabled

12 |


Key functions

The following describes the direct functions of the keys/knobs.

Where necessary, additional detail on any menus accessed by keys is covered in following chapters.

4

11

12 13

1

3

9

2

5 6 7 8 9 10

1.

Channel knob / PUSH TO SELECT

Turn

knob for channel selection, menu scrolling, alphanumeric entry, and fine adjustment of backlight level (dependent on active menu).

Short press

to make selections in menus.

Long press

to open MY CHANNELS.

2.

VOL / SQL

Volume and Squelch level.

Short press

knob to select which control to adjust. Which is currently selected is indicated by a small triangular arrow above the level bar for each option.

Turning

the knob clockwise increases setting, anti-clockwise decreases it. Volume control is common to internal and external speaker.

Long press

to open SHORTCUTS.

3.

EXIT

Press

EXIT when navigating menus, to clear incorrect entries, to exit from a menu without saving changes, and to back up to the previous screen.

4.

DSC CALL / MENU SELECT

Short press

to enter the DSC Call Menu and make DSC calls.

Long press

to open the MENU SELECT page.

5.

Power / Backlight

Short Press

to adjust backlight level sequentally.

Repeated short press of the power button will step through large backlight adjustments. The channel knob can be used to make finer


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adjustments.

Long press

to turn radio on or off.

6.

Weather Channel

Short press

(US/CAN models): press to hear the most recently selected NOAA/Canadian weather station.

For all other models, changes channel to user programmed choice.

Long press

(non US/CAN models): to store current channel as the weather channel.

7.

SCAN

Short press

to enter ALL SCAN mode.

ALL SCAN sequentially scans all channels for activity.

When a signal is received, scanning stops at that channel and the

BUSY icon appears on the screen. If the signal ceases for more than 5 seconds, the scan automatically resumes.

Turn the channel knob to temporarily skip over (lock out) a busy channel and resume the scan. The direction turned determines if the scan goes up or down the channel numbers (ie ‘forward’ or

‘reverse’). If it is still busy when the scan completes a full cycle, it will stop again at this channel. Note that it is not possible to skip over the priority channel.

Press ENT to permanently skip over the channel. The SKIP icon will show on the LCD for this channel.

To cancel a skipped channel, select the channel while in normal mode (non-scan mode) then press the ENT key - the SKIP icon will disappear. Repowering the radio also restores all skipped channels.

Press SCAN or EXIT while scanning is active to stop at the current channel and return to normal operation.

Long press

SCAN from normal operation to enter the SCAN menu.

8.

TRI (WATCH)

Short press

to start DUAL WATCH or TRI WATCH (if ‘watch’ channel set)

Long press

to set the current channel as the watch channel.

When a short press is made on the TRI key, the radio will either switch to DUAL or TRI watch mode depending on whether a watch channel has been setup.

Without a watch channel the radio will go to DUAL WATCH, where the channels ‘watched’ are the current channel and the priority channel (the distress channel, CH16 for most countries).

With a watch channel selected, TRI WATCH is enabled, where the channels ‘watched’ are the current channel the ‘watch’ channel, and the priority channel (the distress channel, CH16 for most countries).

If the radio is set to ‘Country: USA’, two priority channels are watched

- Channel 9 and Channel 16.


9.

16 / 9

(radio and handset)

Short press

to change to priority channel. Press again to return to original channel.

For US models: Long press

to make Channel 09 the priority channel.

The default Priority Channel is CH16.

10.

DISTRESS

Short press

to start a distress call, where the nature of distress can be selected from a list.

Long press

the distress button to initiate an ‘undesignated’ distress call.

This call is broadcast to all DSC equipped radios, so will create an alarm on every DSC radio within range.

If position information is available it will be included in the transmition.

11.

H/L

(handset mic only)

Transmission Power.

Press

to toggle between high (25 W) or low (1 W) transmission power for the entire channel bank. The HI or LO selection is shown on the LCD.

Some channels allow only low power transmissions. Error beeps will sound if attempting to change the transmission power while on one of these channels.

Some channels allow only low power transmissions initially, but can be overridden to high power by pressing (and holding) H/L after depressing PTT

. Keep the H/L button pressed down after releasing the PTT button, if wanting to transmit again on high power.

12.

+

/

-

(handset mic only)

Channel change.

Short press

(+) goes up one channel, or (-) goes down one channel.

Holding either key will, after a short delay, step rapidly through the channels.

13.

PTT

(handset mic only)

Push-to-talk button.

Press button to transmit. Only depress for duration of message to be broadcast. Radio can’t receive while it is transmitting.


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2

The radio menus

A long press of the MENU button opens MENU SELECT page. The following shows the menu structure (top and 2nd level only):

SCAN

WATCH

ALL SCAN

ALL CHANNELS + 16

MY CHANNELS

MY CHANNELS + 16

EDIT MY CHANNELS (choose channels)

DUAL WATCH

TRI WATCH

SET WATCH CHANNEL (choose channel)

DISPLAY

RADIO SETUP

TIME DISPLAY

POS DISPLAY

COG/SOG

BACKLIGHT

CONTRAST

(ON / OFF)

(ON / OFF)

(ON / OFF)

(OFF, 1-10)

(0-10)

SENSITIVITY

UIC

(DISTANT/LOCAL)

(USA/INT’L/CANADA)

POWER OUTPUT

CH NAME

KEY BEEP

UNITS

INT SPEAKER

EXT SPEAKER

TIME

(HIGH/LOW)

(>)

(0-10)

(ON/OFF)

(ON/OFF)

(>)

(>)

VESSEL CALLSIGN (>)

MENU TIMEOUT (>)

DSC SETUP

DSC FUNCTION

USER

(X)

(>)

ATIS FUNCTION

SEA/INLAND USE

MMSI

INDIVIDUAL ACKN.

POS ACKNOWLEDGE

AUTO

TEST ACKNOWLEDGE

RX DISTR WHILE OFF

(ON/OFF)

(SEA/INLAND)

SWITCH

(AUTO/MANUAL)

(>)

(ON/OFF)

(AUTO/MANUAL)

(X)

(EU mode)

(EU mode)

(EU mode)

ALARMS

ALERT

WX

DSC

RESET

(YES/CANCEL)

Key:

(>) further menu options

(X) toggle selection. ‘X’ means option enabled.

(USA/CAN mode)

Scan

This menu is for choosing a scan mode to enable, as well as selection of the channels scanned per the MY CHANNELS list.

¼

Note:

Scanning is not available if ATIS mode is turned on.

All scan

Scans all channels cyclically.

The radio menus | Link-6S User Guide

All channels + 16

Scans all channels cyclically, but checks the priority channel after every channel step

My channels

Scan all channels selected in EDIT MY CHANNELS

My channels + 16

Scans all channels selected in EDIT MY CHANNELS, while also checking the priority channel after every channel step.

Edit my channels

Allows creation of a custom list of channels - used in a MY

CHANNELS scan.

Watch

This menu is for choosing a watch mode to enable, as well as selection of the watch channel. Watch modes can be thought of as a channel scan on a subset of channels, where scanned channels are ‘listened’ to briefly every 3 seconds, to determine if there is any active radio communication.

¼

Note:

Watch modes are not available if ATIS mode is turned on.

Dual watch

Select this to watch the current channel and the priority channel

(Channel 16).

TRI watch

Select this to watch the current channel, the user selected ‘watch’ channel, and the priority channel (Channel 16).


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Set Watch Channel

Allows a watch channel to be selected from all available channels.

Selected channel is used by TRI WATCH mode.

¼

Note:

If the radio is configured for USA market, two priority channels are watched: Channel 9 and Channel 16.

Display

This menu allows the user to partially customize the screen information displayed, and adjust the screen for best visibility to suit the user and operating conditions.

Time display

Select to switch the display of Time to ON or OFF.

If turned ON, the display of COG/SOG is turned off, due to screen space constraints.

LOC (Local Time) is displayed below the time if a UTC (Coordinated

Universal Time) offset has been entered; otherwise UTC is shown in it’s place if no offset has been applied.

POS display

Select to switch ON or OFF the display of position provided from connected GPS.

COG/SOG

Select to switch ON or OFF the display of COG/SOG provided from the selected GPS source.

If turned ON, Time display is turned OFF, due to screen space constraints.

Backlight

Select to make adjustment to the backlight level using the channel knob. Range is OFF, then 1 to 10.

Press MENU SELECT button to activate night mode (inverts display).

Contrast

Select to make adjustment of the screens contrast, using the channel knob. Range is 00 to 10.


Radio setup

The Radio setup menu covers settings that are typically configured at installation, and seldom need changing.

Local/Dist

Use LOCAL/DIST to improve the sensitivity of the receiver either locally (LOCAL) or over distances (DIST).

LOCAL is not recommended for use in open sea conditions. It is designed for use in areas of high radio noise; for example, close to a busy port or city.

UIC

Select between USA, International or Canadian channel banks. The selected channel bank is displayed on the LCD along with the last used channel. All the channel charts are shown in chapter 8.

¼

Note:

UIC may not be available on all models.

Power output

Select to toggle between high (25 W) or low (1 W) transmission power for the entire channel bank. The HI or LO selection is shown on the LCD. Low power transmission draws significantly less current

(about 1/4) from the battery, so is recommended for short range communication, and where battery capacity is limited.

¼

Note:

Some channels can’t be switched to high power, and will show LO regardless of power output setting in menu.

CH name

CH NAME gives you the option to edit or delete the channel name descriptions displayed on the screen.

Select to edit the existing description of the channel currently in use. It can be a maximum of 12 characters long.

Key beep

Select to allow adjustment of key beep volume.

Volume can be set from 00 - 10 (where 00 is off, and 10 is loudest).

Units

Select SPEED to choose whether displayed in KNOTS, MPH, or KPH

Select COURSE to toggle between displaying in MAGNETIC or TRUE.


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A true north heading is corrected for magnetic declination. A magnetic north heading source must also output magnetic variation data if the heading is to be displayed as a true north value.

Int speaker

Select to switch the radio’s internal speaker ON or OFF.

Ext speaker

Select to switch the radio’s external speaker ON or OFF.

GPS

MANUAL

Select MANUAL to enter a GPS position (and time) from another source when radio is not receiving position data from an external antenna, or no antenna is connected.

The manually entered GPS position can be used in DSC calls.

If POS Display is turned ON, the latitude and longitude are shown on the screen with a prefix ‘

M

’ indicating manual entry.

¼

Note:

The manual entry is cleared if a real GPS position is received via the NMEA 0183 or Internal GPS, depending on the GPS SOURCE setting.

GPS SOURCE

•

Choose NMEA 0183 to have the radio listen for GPS data on its serial

NMEA 0183 port

•

Choose BUILT-IN to use the internal GPS system. You then have a choice of using the INTERNAL GPS antenna built into the radio, or an optional EXTERNAL GPS antenna connected to the radio external

GPS antenna SMA port.

CHECKSUM

Select to toggle ON or OFF. When ON, NMEA 0183 data received is validated. If the checksum does not match, the data will be ignored.

When OFF, there will be no tolerance to data corruption.


GPS SIM

Select to toggle ON or OFF.

Whenever the GPS Simulator is turned ON, simulated Speed Over

Ground (SOG), Course Over Ground (COG), and LL position appear on the screen. This is for the purpose of demonstration only. The SIM icon is displayed to warn the user it is in this mode.

¼

Notes:

•

It is not possible to send a DSC transmission when in Simulator mode.

•

The GPS Simulator is set to OFF whenever the radio has the power cycled, or real GPS data is available.

Time

Time Offset

Select TIME OFFSET to enter the difference between UTC and local time. 15 minute increments can be used with a maximum offset of

±13 hours.

¼

Note:

Does not automatically adjust for Daylight Savings Time.

Time Format

Select to toggle between 12 and 24 hour format.

Vessel call sign

Select to enter vessel callsign. Not used by radio - purely for record keeping purposes.

Menu timeout

An inactivity timeout can be set up to return the radio to normal operational mode when no activity is seen from the radio operator while radio is displaying a menu.

Select between NONE, 5 MINS, 10 MINS, and 15 MINS.

(default is 10 MINS).

¼

Note:

A different timeout is used when the radio is left in a DSC call.

See “DSC timeout” on page 24


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DSC setup

DSC Function

It’s recommended DSC functionality is always enabled, unless operating the vessel in an ATIS region. An MMSI number must be entered in radio before the DSC function can be enabled.

User MMSI

Enter an MMSI number to access the radio’s DSC functionality. This unique identifier must be supplied a local radio spectrum authority.

DO NOT

enter a random ‘made up’ number.

¼

Note:

Contact a Lowrance dealer if you need to change your MMSI after initial input.

ATIS function (EU ATIS radios only)

ATIS must be enabled when navigating inland waterways in signatory countries of the RAINWAT agreement. It should NOT be used outside these regions. DSC functionality is not possible when

ATIS is turned on.

Sea/Inland mode (EU ATIS radios only)

Toggles between DSC (Sea) and ATIS (Inland) modes. Does not allow both to be selected at the same time.

ATIS ID (EU ATIS radios only)

Enter an ATIS number to access the radio’s ATIS functionality. This unique identifier must be supplied a local radio spectrum authority.

DO NOT enter a random ‘made up’ number.

¼

Note:

Contact a Lowrance dealer if you need to change your ATIS ID after initial input.

Individual acknowledge (“INDIVIDUAL ACK”)

The radio can be configured to automatically acknowledge an incoming ‘individual’ call, or require manual intervention:

AUTO

After a 15 second delay, radio will switch to requested channel, and send an automatic acknowledgement, ready for conversation.

US model default.


MANUAL

Operator must manually choose to send acknowledgement, as well as change to requested channel. EU model default.

¼

Note:

This does not apply for calls types other than ‘Individual’.

Position request acknowledge (“POS ACK”)

The radio can be configured to automatically acknowledge an incoming position request, require manual intervention to acknowledge, or simply ignore them:

AUTO

Sends current position automatically to calling radio.

MANUAL

Operator must manually choose to send position information.

OFF

All incoming position requests are ignored.

Auto channel switch (“AUTO SWITCH”)

This setting only relates to All Ships and Group DSC calls.

When a DSC call is received, it may include a request to change to a specific channel for subsequent communications. With AUTO

SWITCH set to ON, the radio will switch channels after a 10 second delay. The radio will also display options to switch immediately, or reject the request and stay on the current channel.

With AUTO SWITCH set to OFF, any channel change request will require manual confirmation.

Test acknowledge (“TEST ACK”)

The radio can be configured to automatically acknowledge an incoming test call, or require manual intervention:

MANUAL

Operator must manually choose to send acknowledgement, or cancel.

AUTO

The DSC test call is automatically acknowledged after a 10 second delay.


| 23

24 |

Receive distress while off

Enabling this feature will allow the radio to raise an alert for DSC distress calls, even when the DSC feature is turned off. This will work regardless of whether or not an MMSI number has been entered.

DSC timeout

An inactivity timeout can be set up to return the radio to normal operational mode when no activity is seen from the radio operator while radio is engaged in a DSC call.

Distress calls have a discrete timer from that used for all other DSC calls:

Distress


(default is NO TIMEOUT).

Non Distress


(default is 15 MINS).

Alarms

GPS alert

The GPS alert is a warning to the user that the selected GPS source is not outputting valid position data.

It comprises of an audible alarm and visual alarm (screen flash and warning text).

GPS alert function

Turns ON or OFF all alerts for missing GPS data, including audible alarm, screen flash, and warning text.

Alert volume

Select between HIGH, LOW, and OFF.

Screen flash

Select between ON and OFF.

WX alert

(US/CAN only)

The WX alert is a warning to the user that a special weather station alert has been received.

It comprises of an audible alarm and visual alarm;


WX alert function

Turns ON or OFF the radios response to weather alerts. This includes; automatic switching to the last used weather channel, audible alarm, screen message, and flashing backlight.

Alert volume

Select between HIGH, LOW, and OFF.

Screen flash

Select between ON and OFF.

DSC Alarm

The alert volume and screen flash for some incoming call types can be altered.

SAFETY, ROUTINE and URGENCY calls can individually be set to have:

Alert volume

HIGH, LOW or OFF.

Screen flash

ON or OFF.

¼

Note:

it is not possible to alter distress call alert settings

Reset

Use this setting to return every setting to the factory defaults except all MMSI settings, entries in your buddy list and any customized channel names.


| 25

3

DSC call menu

DSC (Digital Selective Calling) is a semi-automated method of establishing VHF, MF, and HF radio calls. One big advantage that

DSC enabled radios offer is that they can receive calls from another

DSC radio without being on the same channel as the calling radio.

The calling radio will provide details on what channel to switch to so that voice communication can be established. There are various types of DSC calls - the type of call made determines information sent with the call, and how other radios respond to the incoming call.

The following options are available when the DSC button is pressed;

DSC calls

There are four call types, as well as related options, that can be accessed from this menu;

Individual

Used to place a call to a single other vessel.

The call can be initiated by selected an existing vessel in the

CONTACTS; by entering in a new vessel’s MMSI (MANUAL); or by selecting a vessel in the RECENT list.

When the SEND TO page is displayed, turn the channel knob to select the channel to use for voice communication.

Distress

The distress menu can be accessed via the DSC Calls menu, or directly by a short press of the Distress key on the front of the radio.

The nature of the distress call must be selected from the list of options - this will be displayed on other radios receiving the call.

26 |

After the Distress Call is sent, the radio waits for an acknowledgment.

DSC call menu | Link-6S User Guide

The Distress Call is automatically re-sent every 3.5 to 4.5 minutes until a distress acknowledgement is received.

Alternatively the operator can select:

RESEND

(under OPTION - access by pressing the Menu/DSC button) used to immediately resend the Distress Call

PAUSE

(under OPTION - access by pressing the Menu/DSC button) used to pause the automatic Distress Call resend timer

CANCEL

(press ‘X’ button) to cancel the Distress Call

If a distress cancel is sent, the display shows PTT --> REASON, prompting the operator to state the reason for the cancellation.

After a DISTRESS ACK is received, the alert should be silenced, and the reason for distress should be clearly stated, pressing the ‘PTT’ on the MIC and talking.

The following information (if available) is contained in the Distress

Call:

•

Nature Of Distress (if selected)

•

Position information (the latest GPS or manual input position is held for 23.5 hours, or until the power is turned OFF).

Group

Used to place a call to a known group of vessel, all using the same

‘Group Call ID’ (GCID) number.

The call can be initiated by selecting an existing group from the group list, by entering a new GCID, or by selecting a group from the

RECENT list.



| 27

28 |

All ships

Used to place a call to ALL DSC equiped vessels in range, much like a distress call. The nature of the call must be selected, and can be either SAFETY or URGENCY.


Call logs

Shows a record of SENT, RECEIVED, and DISTRESS calls.

POS request

Used to send a postion request to another vessel. The call can be initiated by selected an existing vessel in the CONTACTS, by entering in a new vessel’s MMSI (MANUAL), or by selecting a vessel in the RECENT list.

As no voice communication is required, no option is given to select a ship-ship channel.

POS report

Used to send a position report to the vessel being called.

DSC test

Used to place a TEST call to a single other vessel. The call can be initiated by selected an existing vessel in the CONTACTS, by entering in a new vessel’s MMSI (MANUAL), or by selecting a vessel in the RECENT list.

Comms channel selection is not possible.

MMSI/GPS

Shows entered MMSI number and GPS fix information.

Track buddy

Up to 5 vessels from the Contacts list can be sent recurring position requests, at an adjustable time interval. The buddy list is saved permanently in memory, and tracking can be turned on and off as required.


Select buddy

Shows any existing ‘buddies’ already selected, and the option to add more. Selecting a ‘buddy’ already in the buddy list will remove them.

Choose ADD/UPDATE BUDDY to view the full contacts list, and choose who to add for tracking.

Start tracking / Stop tracking

Selecting START TRACKING option initiates tracking of buddies in the Track buddy list that have been set to tracking ON. The radio will show a screen indicating which buddy is being called. If there is no acknowledgement, the radio will retry the call after a few seconds.

Only one retry is made per tracking interval.

If tracking is already taking place, the START TRACKING text is replaced with STOP TRACKING.

Interval

The frequency that ‘buddys’ are polled with position requests can be adjusted, varying between 5 to 60 minutes.

Contacts

Used for the administation and calling of all individual Contacts as well as Groups.


| 29

View/Add Contact

Use this to store the names and associated MMSI’s of up to 50 vessels to be called regularly using DSC. Contacts are stored by name, in alphabetical order.

Select ADD NEW to create a new contact.

Selecting an existing name in the Contacts list gives the options to place a DSC call, make a position request, edit the contact, or delete the contact.

View/Add Group

Use this to create, edit, or delete up to 20 vessel groups, which are stored in alphanumeric order. Only a name and a Group Call ID

(GCID) are required to set up a group. A GCID always starts with 0; the remaining digits can be set to whatever the user desires. All vessels intended to be in the same group must have a suitable DSC radio, and have the identical GCID number entered.

Selecting an existing name in the group list gives the option to edit, delete, or call the group.

¼

Note:

Adding a group to this list will in turn make the radio respond to a group call made from any other radio with the same group number in it’s memory.

30 |


4

My channels

The MY CHANNELS page is accessed by a long press of the channel knob.

This page provides a shortcut to frequently accessed channels.

The first time this page is opened, the entire channel list is shown so that the desired shortcut channels can be selected.

Subsequent opening of this page will show a list of only the selected channels. Choosing one of the channel options immediately exits the page and sets the radio to that channel.

The available shortcut channels can be changed at any time using

EDIT MY CHANNELS.

¼

Note:

Channels on this list are also used in some SCAN options.

Access to edit the MY CHANNELS list is also available from the SCAN menu.

| 31

My channels | Link-6S User Guide

5

Shortcuts

The Shortcuts page is accessed by a long press of the VOL/SQL knob.

This page is provided as a shortcut to frequently accessed settings.

The shortcut options available on this page are subject to selections made in ADD/EDIT SHORTCUTS.

Add/Edit shortcuts

Choose from the list of options which menu options should be added as shourtcuts;

¼

Note:

The MY VHF page is only available to the operator when enabled as a shortcut - it can’t be accessed via another menu.

It’s purpose is solely for displaying radio information in one easy to access location.

It provides detail on the MMSI number, GPS data status, and Vessel

Callsign (if entered).

Once the desired shortcuts have been selected, they are accessible directly from the Shortcuts page:

32 |

Shortcuts | Link-6S User Guide

6

Installation

This Lowrance DSC VHF radio is designed to generate a digital maritime distress call to facilitate search and rescue. To be effective as a safety device, this radio must be used only within the geographic range of a shore-based VHF marine Channel 70 distress and safety watch system. The geographic range may vary but under normal conditions is approximately 20 nautical miles.

Checklist

The following items should be supplied in the box. Check before starting the installation and contact your dealer if an item is missing.

¼

Note:

An antenna is not provided. Consult your Lowrance dealer for advice on selecting the correct antenna for your installation:

1

4

www g.com

| www

.simra

d-yach ting.co

m | w ww.lo

wranc bandg e.com

.com

.com

.com

ENGLIS

H

ENGLIS

H

ENGLIS

H

Use

Installa

r Gu

tion M anual

2

5

1.

VHF radio with hand mic

2.

Bracket for gimbal mounting

3.

Gasket for recessed mounting

4.

Documents:

- user’s manual

- warranty card

- mounting template

5.

Knobs for bracket

6.

8 A (3 AG) spare fuse

7.

Mounting screw hole covers

8.

Bulkhead mount for hand mic

9.

6 pcs 3.5 x 20 mm, stainless steel, panhead pozi

10.

4 pcs 4 x 25 mm, stainless steel, panhead pozi

Installation | Link-6S User Guide

7

6

3

8

9

10

| 33

34 |

Installation options

There are two mounting options for the radio:

•

Bracket mount:

Using the supplied gimballing bracket the radio can be mounted to either sit on top of, or hang underneath any flat horizontal surface.

The radio can be removed for storage and the viewing angle can be adjusted.

•

Flush mount:

The radio is recessed into a cavity, showing only the face of the radio. The radio fixture is permanent and the viewing angle cannot be adjusted.

Selecting a suitable mounting location

Whichever installation method you choose, please check the following before doing any cutting or drilling. The chosen location must:

•

Be at least 1 m (3’) from the antenna

•

Allow easy access to the rear of the radio for connection to the 12 V

DC electrical source, the antenna and any network wiring

•

Be at least 45 cms (1.5’) from a compass to avoid creating magnetic deviation of the compass.

•

Have a suitable space close by for installing the microphone bulkhead mount

•

Provide easy access to the controls on the front panel

•

If intending to use the built-in GPS antenna, it must be in a

location that provides optimal GPS performance, see “Built-in GPS considerations” on page 35.

Viewing angle

The VHF radio has a large LCD screen with the optimum horizontal and vertical viewing angles within approx. +/-20 deg. Ensure the chosen location provides a suitable view of the display. Ideally, the user should be directly in front of the display or no more than +/-20 deg from the front of the display.

¼

Note:

If unsure, temporarily power up the radio and ensure the location is suitable.

20°

20°

20°

20°


Built-in GPS considerations

1.

The built-in GPS antenna is mounted in the front face of this radio above the speaker grill.

2.

If you intend to use the built-in GPS Antenna in this radio, you must ensure a suitable mounting location that allows optimal GPS performance.

3.

There must not be any metallic or large obstacles in the path between the radio and the sky. The more obstacles in the way, the weaker the GPS signal getting to the antenna.

4.

If the radio is mounted in an alloy or ferrous boat, or below decks, then an external GPS antenna is recommended. Seek professional guidance if unsure.

Bracket installation

The gimbal bracket provides an adjustable viewing angle with a 20º tilt range, so ensure the selected mounting location will provide the desired viewing and operating conditions:

1.

Hold the bracket at the chosen location and use a soft pencil to mark the screw hole positions onto the mounting surface.

2.

Use a 3 mm (1/8” ) drill bit to drill the 4 pilot holes.

3.

Using a Phillips screwdriver, secure the bracket using the supplied

4x25 mm selftapping screws to the mounting location.

4.

Fit the radio into the bracket.

5.

Insert the two mounting knobs through the holes and tighten them sufficiently to hold the radio at the desired viewing angle.

6.

Fit the mounting clips to the front of the radio to cover dash mount screw holes.


| 35

Flush installation

1.

Tape the installation template onto the chosen mounting location.

2.

Cut out the area marked by the solid dark line (the dashed line indicates the total area that will be covered by the radio fascia after installation).

3.

Use a 2.5 mm (3/32” ) drill bit to drill the 4 pilot holes.

4.

Remove the installation template.

5.

Fit the gasket to the radio.

6.

Slide the radio into the cavity.

7.

Using a Phillips screwdriver, secure the radio using the supplied

3.5x20 mm selftapping screws to the mounting location.

8.

Fit the mounting clips to cover the 4 mounting screws.

36 |

Install the hand mic bulkhead bracket

1.

Hold the hand mic bulkhead bracket at the chosen location and mark the screw hole positions on the mounting surface.

¼

Note:

Ensure that the microphone curly cable will comfortably reach this location BEFORE you drill.

2.

Use a 2.5 mm (3/32” ) drill bit to drill the 2 pilot holes.

3.

Using a Phillips screwdriver, secure the Mic mount using the supplied 3.5x20 mm selftapping screws to the mounting location.

4.

Hang the fist mic on the mount.


Install the external GPS-500 Antenna (optional)

It is not recommended that the GPS antenna is mounted up a mast where the motion of the vessel will cause the antenna to swing and potentially reduce the accuracy of the GPS position.

Also, do not mount the antenna in the direct path of a radar transmitter.

Mount the GPS-500 to either a pole or hard surface then run the cable to the transceiver. In all cases, ensure the selected location enables the antenna to have a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.

To

pole mount

the external GPS-500 antenna, you will require a

1-inch 14 TPI thread pole:

•

Screw the pole adapter onto the threaded portion of the pole.

•

Feed the cable attached to the GPS antenna through the adapter and pole.

•

Mount the pole into position.

•

Fit the GPS antenna to the pole adapter using the 2 small screws.

To

surface mount

the external GPS-500 antenna, select a flat clean surface area that has a clear view of the sky. Mount the antenna using the supplied gasket and the 2 small screws:

•

Mark and drill the 2 mounting holes and a further hole if necessary for the GPS cable.

•

Install the gasket by firstly threading the attached cable through the centre of the gasket.

•

Screw the GPS antenna to the mounting surface.

¼

Note:

Ensure the surface mounting area is clean with no dirt, old paint or debris.


| 37

•

Run the GPS cable to the transceiver:

•

Route the cable to your VHF transceiver unit, adding any necessary extension cables.

•

Connect the cable from the GPS antenna to the GPS connector

(SMA) on the VHF transceiver as shown below.

Connect the radio wiring

All wiring on the radio should be done with the vessel power supply turned off. While radio power is polarity protected, the fuse will blow if connection is made wrong way round. Ensure any unused bare wires are isolated from each other, to prevent the potential of a short circuit.

!

Warning:

Never operate the radio without the antenna connected. This may damage the transmitter.

The connectors are on the rear of the base unit, as follows:

38 |

1.

Battery - (black): connect to vessel’s negative busbar

2.

Battery + (red): connect to vessel’s 12 V DC, via a switch panel or breaker (comes with inline 8 amp fuse ready fitted)

3.

6 wires to be connected as follows:

1. External speaker + (gray): connect to 4 Ohm, 4 Watt (minimum) external speaker positive

2. External speaker - (gray/black): connect to 4 Ohm, 4 Watt

(minimum) external speaker negative

3. NMEA 0183 RX_A (yellow): connect to TX_A of chart plotter, or active GPS antenna

4. NMEA 0183 RX_B (green): connect to TX_B of chart plotter, or active GPS antenna


+_

5. NMEA 0183 TX_A (white): connect to RX_A of chart plotter

6. NMEA 0183 TX_B (brown): connect to RX_B of chart plotter

4.

Antenna: connect to a marine VHF antenna using 50 ohm cable fitted with a PL-259 connector

5.

GND: optional ground connection. May help with induced noise issues

6.

Optional External GPS Antenna connection (SMA).

¼

Note:

External speaker and plotter connections are optional.

First startup configuration

The first time the radio is powered up, the user is prompted to make a series of setting selections in order to allow the radio to perform to its full potential. Some steps must be completed; some are optional and can be completed later. The steps are outlined below for reference:

Select the region and country the radio will be operated in.

Enter MMSI number if known, or skip to next step. Re-enter number to confirm correct entry.

¼

Note:

MMSI entry can only be done once. Changing the MMSI requires radio be returned to a Lowrance dealer.

For some EU region radios only: Enter the ATIS ID number. Re-enter


| 39

40 |

number to confirm correct entry.

Enter vessel call sign if known, or skip to next step.

Select a GPS source

Set the time offset for your region. Choose whether to display time in 12 or 24 hour.

MMSI and ATIS ID

The MMSI is a unique 9 digit number and the ATIS ID is a 10 digit number. They are used on marine transceivers that have DSC (Digital

Select Calling) functionality.

•

An MMSI remains with a vessel, even if the vessel is sold on.

•

An MMSI has 9 numeric digits (xxxxxxxxx). Your MMSI must not commence with a ‘0’.

•

A Group MMSI begins with ‘0’ followed by 8 numeric digits

(0xxxxxxxx).

•

A Coast Station MMSI begins with 00 followed by 7 numeric digits

(00xxxxxxx).

•

By law, you are not able to change your MMSI once it is entered into the radio. This is why there is the confirmation screen when entering the MMSI.


•

An ATIS ID is only required in certain EU countries when navigating some inland waterways. It is usually a different number to your

MMSI.

•

If you need to have the MMSI in the radio changed, the radio must be taken back to your Lowrance dealer.

ATIS

Automatic Transmitter Identification System (ATIS) is required for vessels making VHF transmissions whilst on the inland waterways of the Regional Arrangement Concerning the Radiotelephone Service on Inland Waterways (RAINWAT) signatory countries.

RAINWAT is an agreement to implement common principles and rules for the safe carriage of people and goods on Inland Waterways.

The signatory countries are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the

Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, Moldova,

Montenegro, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Serbia, the Slovak

Republic and Switzerland.

Where a VHF is required on the inland waterways of the signatory countries, this must be capable of ATIS transmissions, and have the feature activated. An ATIS number is required which is issued by

Ofcom when you add one or more pieces of ATIS equipment to your Ship Radio Licence.

If you don’t have a user MMSI or ATIS ID, contact the appropriate licensing authority in your country. If you’re unsure who to contact, consult your Lowrance dealer.


| 41

42 |

7

Specifications

GENERAL

Power supply: 12 V DC battery system

Nominal operating voltage: + 13.6 V DC

Low battery alert: 10.5 V DC +/- 0.5 V

Over voltage protection:

Current drain (Transmit):

> 15.8 V +/- 0.5 V

≤ 6 A @ 25 W / 1.5 A @ 1W (12 V DC)

Current drain (Receive):

Replacement Fuse:

Temperature range:

Usable channels:

Less than 450 mA in standby

8 A, Glass type 3 AG; 32 mm (1.25”)

-20 ºC to +55 ºC (-4 ºF to 131 ºF)

International, USA, Canada, Weather

Mode:

DSC mode:

16K0G3E (FM) / 16K0G2B (DSC)

Class D (Global) with dual receiver

Frequency range (Transmitter): 156.025 - 157.425 MHz

Frequency range (Receiver): 156.050 - 163.275 MHz

Channel spacing:

Frequency stability:

Frequency control:

25 KHz

± 5 ppm

PLL

PHYSICAL

LCD display (viewing):

Contrast control:

Backlight control:

VHF antenna connector:

GPS antenna connector:

42 mm x 34 mm (1.65” x 1.3”), FSTN

Yes

Yes

SO-239 (50 ohm)

SMA (female)

Dimensions: W=166.7 mm (6.56”) x H=89.2 mm

(3.5”) x D=161.4 mm (6.35”) - without

bracket

Weight: 1.18 kg (2.6 lbs)

Compass safe distance:

NMEA 0183 port:

NMEA 0183 input:

NMEA 0183 output:

0.5 m (1.5’)

Yes

RMC, GGA, GLL, GNS

Yes, DSC ( for DSC call), DSE (for

Specifications | Link-6S User Guide

NMEA 2000 port:

External speaker:

FEATURES

Flush mount kit

Local/Distant control:

Position polling:

Call logs:

Channel naming:

Favourite channel scan:

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes - 20 individual and 10 distress

Yes

Yes

User programmable MMSI: Yes

MMSI and NAME directory: Yes - 20 numbers & group

TRANSMITTER

Frequency error:

Output power:

Transmitter protection:

≤± 1.5 KHz

25 W (23 ± 2) / 1 W (0.8 ± 0.2)

Open / short circuit of antenna

Max Frequency deviation: ≤± 5

Spurious & harmonics Hi/Lo: ≤ 0.25 µ W

Modulation Distortion ±3KHz: ≤ 10 %

S/N at 3KHz Deviation:

Audio Response at 1KHz:

≥ 40 dB

+1 to -3dB of 6 dB/octave from

300 hz to 3 KHz

DSC TX deviation at 1.3K:

DSC TX deviation at 2.1K:

2.6 ± 0.26 KHz

4.2 ± 0.42 KHz

ATIS TX deviation at 1.3 KHz: 1.3 ± 0.13 KHz

ATIS TX deviation at 2.1 KHz: 2.1 ± 0.21 KHz

RECEIVER

12dB SINAD sensitivity:

20db SINAD sensitivity:

Adjacent CH selectivity:

0.25 µV (distant) / 0.8 µV (local)

0.35 µV more than 70 db

Spurious response: more than 70 db

Intermodulation rejection: more than 68 db


| 43

Residual noise level:

Audio output power:

BUILT-IN GPS RECEIVER

Receiving frequency:

Tracking code:

Number of channels:

Horizontal accuracy:

Position fixing time:

Position update interval:

ACCESSORIES

VHF Radio antenna type: more than -40 db unsquelched

2 W (with 8 ohm at 10% distortion)

4 W (with 4 ohm external speaker

1575.42 MHz

C/A code

72 channels

<10 m

Warm start: 30s, Cold start: 90s

1 second typical

Dipole. Gain value: 6 dBi

¼

Note:

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

44 |


8

Channel charts

The following channel charts are provided for reference only and may not be correct for all regions. It is the operators’ responsibility to ensure correct channels and frequencies are used for local regulations.

EU and International channel chart

With reference to Appendix 18 (Rev.WRC-15) (See article 52).

¼

Note:

For assistance in understanding the table, see Notes a) to zz) below. (WRC-15)

¼

Note:

The table below defines the channel numbering for maritime VHF communications based on 25 kHz channel spacing and use of several duplex channels. The channel numbering and the conversion of two-frequency channels for single-frequency operation shall be in accordance with Recommendation ITU-R

M.1084-5 Annex 4, Tables 1 and 3. The table below also describes the harmonized channels where the digital technologies defined in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1842 could be deployed. (WRC-15)

¼

Note:

Depending on the country your radio is set to, not all channels listed in the following table maybe available.

Channel charts | Link-6S User Guide

| 45

04

05

02

03

06

09

10

07

08

01

Channel designator

60

65

2006

66

63

64

61

62

69

70

67

68

17

18

15

16

1078

13

14

11

12

77

78

75

76

2078

73

74

71

72

46 |

m) m) m) m) h) m) m) f ) r) m) m) m) m) m) m) m) i) h), q) f ), j) q) g) n), s) f ) n), s) g) m) m) mm)

Notes i) k) h), i)

156.750

156.775

156.800

156.825

156.850

156.875

156.900

156.925

156.925

156.550

156.575

156.600

156.625

156.650

156.675

156.700

156.725

Transmitting frequencies

(MHz)

From ship stations

From coast stations

156.025

156.050

160.625

160.650

156.075

156.100

156.125

156.150

156.175

156.200

156.225

156.250

156.275

156.300

160.900

156.325

156.350

156.375

156.400

156.425

156.450

156.475

156.500

156.525

160.675

160.700

160.725

160.750

160.775

160.800

160.825

160.850

160.875

160.900

160.925

160.950

156.375

156.425

156.450

156.475

156.500

156.525

Intership x

156.550

156.575

156.600

156.650

156.675

156.700

156.725

156.750

156.775

156.800

156.825

156.850

161.500

161.525

156.925

161.525

Port operations and ship

Single frequency x x x x x x x x x x x movement

Two frequency x x x x x x x x x x x

Public correspondence x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

Digital selective calling for distress, safety and calling x x x x x x x x x x

Distress, safety and calling x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x


21

22

23

24

1024

19

1019

1079

20

1020

1084

25

1025

1085

26

1026

2019

79

2079 m) mm) m) mm) m)

2020 mm)

80 y), wa) y), wa)

81 y), wa) y), wa)

82 x), y), wa) x), y), wa)

83 x), y), wa) w), ww), x), xx) w), ww), x), xx)

2024 w), ww), x), xx)

156.950

156.950

156.975

156.975

157.000

157.000

157.025

157.050

157.075

157.100

157.125

157.150

157.175

157.200

157.200

161.550

156.950

161.550

161.575

156.975

161.575

161.600

157.000

161.600

161.625

161.650

161.675

161.700

161.725

161.750

161.775

161.800

161.800

161.800

x

(digital only)

84 w), ww), x), xx) w), ww), x), xx)

2084 w), ww), x), xx)

157.225

157.225

161.825

161.825

161.825

x

(digital only)

2025 w), ww), x), xx) w), ww), x), xx) w), ww), x), xx)

157.250

157.250

161.850

161.850

161.850

x

(digital only)

85 w), ww), x), xx) w), ww), x), xx)

2085 w), ww), x), xx)

157.275

157.275

161.875

161.875

161.875

x

(digital only) w), ww), x) w), ww), x)

2026 w), ww), x)

157.300

157.300

161.900

161.900


x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

| 47

1086

27

1027

28

1028

AIS 1

AIS 2

86 w), ww), x) w), ww), x)

2086 w), ww), x) z), zx)

ASM 1

87 z), zz) z) z), zz) z), zx)

ASM2

88 z), zz) z) z), zz) f ), l), p) f ), l), p)

157.325

157.325

157.350

157.350

161.950

157.375

157.400

157.400

162.000

157.425

161.975

162.025

161.925

161.925

161.950

157.350

161.950

157.375

162.000

157.400

162.000

157.425

161.975

162.025

48 |

x x x x x x x x x x x

Notes referring to the Table

General notes:

a) Administrations may designate frequencies in the inter-ship, port operations and ship movement services for use by light aircraft and helicopters to communicate with ships or participating coast stations in predominantly maritime support operations under the conditions specified in Nos.

51.69, 51.73, 51.74, 51.75, 51.76, 51.77

and

51.78

. However, the use of the channels which are shared with public correspondence shall be subject to prior agreement between interested and affected administrations.

b) The channels of the present Appendix, with the exception of channels

06, 13, 15, 16, 17, 70, 75 and 76, may also be used for high-speed data and facsimile transmissions, subject to special arrangement between interested and affected administrations.

c) The channels of the present Appendix, with the exception of channels

06, 13, 15, 16, 17, 70, 75 and 76, may be used for direct-printing telegraphy and data transmission, subject to special arrangement between interested and affected administrations. (WRC-12) d) The frequencies in this table may also be used for radiocommunications on inland waterways in accordance with the conditions specified in No.

5.226.

e) Administrations may apply 12.5 kHz channel interleaving on a noninterference basis to 25 kHz channels, in accordance with the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1084, provided:

•

it shall not affect the 25 kHz channels of the present Appendix maritime mobile distress and safety, automatic identification system

(AIS), and data exchange frequencies, especially the channels 06,

13, 15, 16, 17, 70, AIS 1 and AIS 2, nor the technical characteristics set forth in Recommendation ITU-R M.489-2 for those channels;


•

implementation of 12.5 kHz channel interleaving and consequential national requirements shall be subject to coordination with affected administrations. (WRC-12)

Specific notes

f) The frequencies 156.300 MHz (channel 06), 156.525 MHz (channel 70),

156.800 MHz (channel 16), 161.975 MHz (AIS 1) and 162.025 MHz (AIS

2) may also be used by aircraft stations for the purpose of search and rescue operations and other safety-related communication. (WRC-07) g) Channels 15 and 17 may also be used for on-board communications provided the effective radiated power does not exceed 1 W, and subject to the national regulations of the administration concerned when these channels are used in its territorial waters.

h) Within the European Maritime Area and in Canada, these frequencies

(channels 10, 67, 73) may also be used, if so required, by the individual administrations concerned, for communication between ship stations, aircraft stations and participating land stations engaged in coordinated search and rescue and anti-pollution operations in local areas, under the conditions specified in Nos.

51.69, 51.73, 51.74, 51.75, 51.76, 51.77

and

51.78

.

i) The preferred first three frequencies for the purpose indicated in Note a) are 156.450 MHz (channel 09), 156.625 MHz (channel 72) and 156.675

MHz (channel 73).

j) Channel 70 is to be used exclusively for digital selective calling for distress, safety and calling.

k) Channel 13 is designated for use on a worldwide basis as a navigation safety communication channel, primarily for intership navigation safety communications. It may also be used for the ship movement and port operations service subject to the national regulations of the administrations concerned.

l) These channels (AIS 1 and AIS 2) are used for an automatic identification system (AIS) capable of providing worldwide operation, unless other frequencies are designated on a regional basis for this purpose.

Such use should be in accordance with the most recent version of

Recommendation ITU-R M.1371. (WRC-07) m) These channels may be operated as single frequency channels, subject to coordination with affected administrations. The following conditions apply for single frequency usage:

•

The lower frequency portion of these channels may be operated as single frequency channels by ship and coast stations.

•

Transmission using the upper frequency portion of these channels is limited to coast stations.

•

If permitted by administrations and specified by national regulations, the upper frequency portion of these channels may be used by ship


| 49

50 |

stations for transmission. All precautions should be taken to avoid harmful interference to channels AIS 1, AIS 2, 2027* and 2028*. (WRC-

15)

* From 1 January 2019, channel 2027 will be designated ASM 1 and channel 2028 will be designated ASM 2.

mm) Transmission on these channels is limited to coast stations. If permitted by administrations and specified by national regulations, these channels may be used by ship stations for transmission. All precautions should be taken to avoid harmful interference to channels AIS 1, AIS 2, 2027* and

2028*. (WRC-15)

* From 1 January 2019, channel 2027 will be designated ASM 1 and channel 2028 will be designated ASM 2.

n) With the exception of AIS, the use of these channels (75 and 76) should be restricted to navigation-related communications only and all precautions should be taken to avoid harmful interference to channel

16, by limiting the output power to 1 W. (WRC-12) o) (SUP - WRC-12) p) Additionally, AIS 1 and AIS 2 may be used by the mobile-satellite service

(Earth-to-space) for the reception of AIS transmissions from ships. (WRC-

07) q) When using these channels (10 and 11), all precautions should be taken to avoid harmful interference to channel 70. (WRC-07) r) In the maritime mobile service, this frequency is reserved for experimental use for future applications or systems (e.g. new

AIS applications, man over board systems, etc.). If authorized by administrations for experimental use, the operation shall not cause harmful interference to, or claim protection from, stations operating in the fixed and mobile services. (WRC-12) s) Channels 75 and 76 are also allocated to the mobile-satellite service

(Earth-to-space) for the reception of long- range AIS broadcast messages from ships (Message 27; see the most recent version of

Recommendation ITU-R M.1371). (WRC-12) t) (SUP – WRC-15) u) SUP – WRC-15) v) SUP – WRC-15) w) In Regions 1 and 3:

Until 1 January 2017, the frequency bands 157.200-157.325 MHz and 161.800-161.925 MHz (corresponding to channels: 24, 84, 25, 85,

26 and 86) may be used for digitally modulated emissions, subject to coordination with affected administrations. Stations using these channels or frequency bands for digitally modulated emissions shall not cause harmful interference to, or claim protection from, other stations operating in accordance with Article 5.


From 1 January 2017, the frequency bands 157.200-157.325 MHz and

161.800-161.925 MHz (corresponding to channels: 24, 84, 25, 85, 26 and

86) are identified for the utilization of the VHF Data Exchange System

(VDES) described in the most recent version of Recommendation

ITU-R M.2092. These frequency bands may also be used for analogue modulation described in the most recent version of Recommendation

ITU-R M.1084 by an administration that wishes to do so, subject to not causing harmful interference to, or claiming protection from other stations in the maritime mobile service using digitally modulated emissions and subject to coordination with affected administrations.

(WRC-15) wa) In Regions 1 and 3:

Until 1 January 2017, the frequency bands 157.025-157.175 MHz and

161.625-161.775 MHz (corresponding to channels: 80, 21, 81, 22, 82,

23 and 83) may be used for digitally modulated emissions, subject to coordination with affected administrations. Stations using these channels or frequency bands for digitally modulated emissions shall not cause harmful interference to, or claim protection from, other stations operating in accordance with Article 5.


161.625-161.700 MHz (corresponding to channels: 80, 21, 81 and 22) are identified for utilization of the digital systems described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1842 using multiple 25 kHz contiguous channels.


161.750-161.775 MHz (corresponding to channels: 23 and 83) are identified for utilization of the digital systems described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1842 using two 25 kHz contiguous channels. From 1 January 2017, the frequencies 157.125

MHz and 161.725 MHz (corresponding to channel: 82) are identified for the utilization of the digital systems described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1842.

The frequency bands 157.025-157.175 MHz and 161.625-161.775 MHz

(corresponding to channels: 80, 21, 81, 22, 82, 23 and 83) can also be used for analogue modulation described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1084 by an administration that wishes to do so, subject to not claiming protection from other stations in the maritime mobile service using digitally modulated emissions and subject to coordination with affected administrations. (WRC-15) ww) In Region 2, the frequency bands 157.200-157.325 and 161.800-

161.925 MHz (corresponding to channels: 24, 84, 25, 85, 26 and 86) are designated for digitally modulated emissions in accordance with the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1842. In Canada and

Barbados, from 1 January 2019 the frequency bands 157.200-157.275 and 161.800-161.875 MHz (corresponding to channels: 24, 84, 25 and


| 51

85) may be used for digitally modulated emissions, such as those described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.2092, subject to coordination with affected administrations. (WRC-15) x) From 1 January 2017, in Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Madagascar,

Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and

Zimbabwe, the frequency bands 157.125-157.325 and 161.725-161.925

MHz (corresponding to channels: 82, 23, 83, 24, 84, 25, 85, 26 and 86) are designated for digitally modulated emissions.

From 1 January 2017, in China, the frequency bands 157.150-157.325 and 161.750-161.925 MHz (corresponding to channels: 23, 83, 24, 84, 25,

85, 26 and 86) are designated for digitally modulated emissions. (WRC-

12) xx) From 1 January 2019, the channels 24, 84, 25 and 85 may be merged in order to form a unique duplex channel with a bandwidth of 100 kHz in order to operate the VDES terrestrial component described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.2092. (WRC-15) y) These channels may be operated as single or duplex frequency channels, subject to coordination with affected administrations. (WRC-

12) z) Until 1 January 2019, these channels may be used for possible testing of future AIS applications without causing harmful interference to, or claiming protection from, existing applications and stations operating in the fixed and mobile services.

From 1 January 2019, these channels are each split into two simplex channels. The channels 2027 and 2028 designated as ASM 1 and ASM

2 are used for application specific messages (ASM) as described in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.2092. (WRC-15) zx) In the United States, these channels are used for communication between ship stations and coast stations for the purpose of public correspondence. (WRC-15) zz) From 1 January 2019, channels 1027, 1028, 87 and 88 are used as singlefrequency analogue channels for port operation and ship movement.

(WRC-15)

Source: ITU Radio Regulations ; reproduced with permission from ITU.

52 |


Channel designator

71

72

73

74

28

67

68

69

85

86

87

88

75

76

77

84

1001 (was 01A)

1005 (was 05A)

24

25

26

27

15

16

17

20

11

12

13

14

6

8

9

10

USA channel chart

Transmitting frequencies (MHz)

From ship stations

From coast stations

S/D/R

156.300

156.300

S

156.825

156.875

157.225

157.275

157.325

157.375

157.425

156.050

156.250

156.375

156.425

156.475

156.575

156.625

156.675

156.725

156.775

156.800

156.850

157.000

157.200

157.250

157.300

157.350

157.400

156.400

156.450

156.500

156.550

156.600

156.650

156.700

--

156.825

156.875

161.825

161.875

161.925

157.375

157.425

156.050

156.250

156.375

156.425

156.475

156.575

156.625

156.675

156.725

156.775

156.800

156.850

161.600

161.800

161.850

161.900

161.950

162.000

156.400

156.450

156.500

156.550

156.600

156.650

156.700

156.750

S

S

D

S

S

D

D

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

D

D

D

D

D

D

S

S

S

R

S

S

S

S

S

S


Channel name

TELEPHONE

BRIDGE COM

SHIP-SHIP

SHIP-SHIP

SHIP-SHIP

SHIP-SHIP

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

INTER-SHIP

PORT OPS/VTS

PORT OPS/VTS

SAFETY

COMMERCIAL

CALLING

COMMERCIAL

VTS

PORT OPS/VTS

BRIDGE COM

PORT OPS/VTS

ENVIROMENTAL

DISTRESS

SAR

PORT OPS

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

Restrictions

1W

RX ONLY

1W

1W

1W

1W

1W

| 53

1007 (was 07A)

1018 (was 18A)

1019 (was 19A)

1020 (was 20A)

1021 (was 21A)

1022 (was 22A)

1023 (was 23A)

1063 (was 63A)

1065 (was 65A)

1066 (was 66A)

1078 (was 78A)

1079 (was 79A)

1080 (was 80A)

1081 (was 81A)

1082 (was 82A)

1083 (was 83A)

WX1

WX2

WX3

WX4

WX5

WX6

WX7

Channel designator

156.275

156.325

156.925

156.975

157.025

157.075

157.125

157.175

156.350

156.900

156.950

157.000

157.050

157.100

157.150

156.175

156.275

156.325

156.925

156.975

157.025

157.075

157.125

157.175

156.350

156.900

156.950

157.000

157.050

157.100

157.150

156.175

USA weather channels


From ship stations

From coast stations

--

--

--

162.550

162.400

162.475

--

--

--

--

162.425

162.450

162.500

162.525

S/D/R

R

R

R

R

R

R

R

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL

PORT OPS

US COAST GRD

US COAST GRD

US COAST GRD

PORT OPS/VTS

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

SHIP-SHIP

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL

RESTRICTED

RESTRICTED

RESTRICTED

Channel name

NOAA WX1

NOAA WX2

NOAA WX3

NOAA WX4

NOAA WX5

NOAA WX6

NOAA WX7

Restrictions

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

54 |


28

60

61

62

24

25

26

27

20

21

22

23

16

17

18

19

67

68

69

71

63

64

65

66

72

73

12

13

14

15

8

9

10

11

6

7

4

5

1

2

3

Channel designator

Canada channel chart

157.400

156.025

156.075

156.125

156.175

156.225

156.275

156.325

156.375

156.425

156.475

156.575

156.625

156.675

157.000

157.050

157.100

157.150

157.200

157.250

157.300

157.350

156.600

156.650

156.700

156.750

156.800

156.850

156.900

156.950


From ship stations

From coast stations

156.050

156.100

156.150

160.650

160.700

160.750

156.200

156.250

156.300

156.350

156.400

156.450

156.500

156.550

160.800

160.850

156.300

160.950

156.400

156.450

156.500

156.550

161.600

161.650

161.700

161.750

161.800

161.850

161.900

161.950

156.600

156.650

156.700

156.750

156.800

156.850

161.500

161.550

162.000

160.625

160.675

160.725

160.775

160.825

160.875

160.925

156.375

156.425

156.475

156.575

156.625

156.675

S/D/R

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

D

D

D

D

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

D

D

D

D

D

D


Channel name

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

CANADIAN CG

CANADIAN CG

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

COMMERCIAL

SHIP-SHIP

COMMERCIAL

VTS

SHIP-SHIP

COMMERCIAL

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

CANADIAN CG

TELEPHONE

SAFETY

TELEPHONE

COMMERCIAL

VTS

VTS

VTS

PORT OPS/VTS

BRIDGE COM

PORT OPS/VTS

COMMERCIAL

1W

1W

DISTRESS

SAR

TELEPHONE

CANADIAN CG

1W

CANADIAN CG 1W

CANADIAN CG

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

Restrictions

| 55

1026

1027

1061

1062

1063

1064

1065

1066

1007

1018

1019

1020

1021

1022

1024

1025

82

83

84

85

86

87

88

1001

1005

78

79

80

81

74

75

76

77

1078

1079

1080

1083

1084

1085

1086

2019

2020

2023

2026

2078

56 |

157.300

157.350

156.075

156.125

156.175

156.225

156.275

156.325

156.350

156.900

156.950

157.000

157.050

157.100

157.200

157.250

161.725

161.775

161.825

161.875

161.925

157.375

157.425

156.050

156.250

156.725

156.775

156.825

156.875

161.525

161.575

161.625

161.675

156.925

156.975

157.025

157.175

157.225

157.275

157.325

161.550

161.600

161.750

161.900

161.525


S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

D

S

S

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

D

S

S

S

S

S

R

S

S

S

S

S

S

R

R

R

R

157.300

157.350

156.075

156.125

156.175

156.225

156.275

156.325

156.350

156.900

156.950

157.000

157.050

157.100

157.200

157.250

157.125

157.175

157.225

157.275

157.325

157.375

157.425

156.050

156.250

156.725

156.775

156.825

156.875

156.925

156.975

157.025

157.075

--

--

--

--

156.925

156.975

157.025

157.175

157.225

157.275

157.325

--

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL

CANADIAN CG

PORT OPS

RESTRICTED

CANADIAN CG

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

CANADIAN CG

CANADIAN CG

CANADIAN CG

TELEPHONE

RESTRICTED

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

VTS

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

CANADIAN CG

CANADIAN CG

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

TELEPHONE

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

COMMERCIAL

PORT OPS/VTS

SHIP-SHIP

COMMERCIAL

COMMERCIAL

RESTRICTED

PORT OPS

CANADIAN CG

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

SAFETY

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

1W

1W

1W

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

2079

2086

WX1

WX2

WX3

Channel designator

--

--

161.575

161.925

R

R

Canada weather channels

--

--

--


From ship stations

From coast stations

162.550

162.400

162.475

R

R

R

S/D/R

PORT OPS

PORT OPS

RX ONLY

RX ONLY

Channel name

CANADA WX

CANADA WX

CANADA WX

Restrictions

Rx only

Rx only

Rx only


| 57

9

Dimensional drawings

166.7 mm (6.56”)

60 mm (2.36”)

161.4 mm (6.35”)

58 |

Dimensional drawings | Link-6S User Guide

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