Standard Horizon HX400iS Intrinsically Safe Handheld VHF
- Brand:
- Standard Horizon
- Part no:
- HX400IS
Image: Fisheries Supply
Where to buy
Specifications
- Mounting
- Handheld
- Transmit power
- 5 W
- Waterproof
- IPX8
- Channel sets
- All three
- Battery life
- 17 h
- NOAA weather alerts
- Yes
- Battery
- 2300 mAh
The Standard Horizon HX400iS is a handheld marine VHF built to be intrinsically safe, meaning it is meant for hazardous environments where a spark could be a problem. It meets ANSI/UL 913 requirements for flammable gases, vapors and liquids. Output is selectable between 5 and 1 watt, and the radio is rated IPX8 submersible at 1.5 m for 30 minutes. A 2300 mAh lithium-ion battery is supplied, given at about 17 hours of talking, with a 3-hour quick charger.
Our take
The ANSI/UL 913 rating for flammable gases, vapors and liquids is the feature that defines this radio, and the maker names engine rooms among the places that rating matters. Beyond that it keeps the 5 or 1 watt output and an IPX8 submersible rating.
From our buying guide
Standard Horizon says range depends far more on the antenna than on transmit power, and that a handheld on its stock antenna at sea level may only reach a mile or two. It has its own battery and antenna, so it keeps working if the boat's power fails.
Check before you buy:
- It has DSC and GPS if you want a distress button that sends your position, since handhelds are not required to have DSC.
- The waterproof rating comes with the maker's depth and time, since IPX8 has no fixed depth or time.
- The maker says it floats on its own, since some float only in an optional case.