Premium Black Box VHF Radio with Advanced Features

The Simrad RS90S VHF Radio Black Box continues Simrad's legendary excellence in marine VHF radio technology, delivering professional-grade communication capabilities in a flexible black box configuration. This sophisticated system combines traditional VHF communication with cutting-edge features including integrated AIS reception, powerful hailer functionality, and advanced DSC (Digital Selective Calling) capabilities for comprehensive marine communication and safety.

Designed for serious mariners who demand reliability, versatility, and performance, the RS90S supports flexible installation options with both wired and wireless handsets, making it ideal for larger vessels requiring multiple communication stations.

Multi-Station Communication System

The RS90S delivers unmatched flexibility with support for up to 6 separate stations - 4 wired and 2 wireless - a capability unmatched in the marine VHF market. This comprehensive station configuration transforms your vessel into a fully integrated communication network, enabling crew members to stay in contact regardless of their location on board.

The advanced intercom facility allows seamless communication between all stations, creating an efficient vessel-wide communication system perfect for coordinating operations, safety procedures, and daily activities across large yachts, commercial vessels, or multi-deck boats.

Integrated AIS Reception and Tracking

Dual Channel AIS Receiver

The built-in dual channel AIS receiver provides continuous monitoring of nearby vessel traffic, enhancing situational awareness and collision avoidance capabilities. The system displays AIS targets with detailed vessel information including position, course, speed, and vessel identification.

Track-Your-Buddy Feature

Experience the exclusive Track-Your-Buddy function that revolutionizes group boating excursions. When connected to a compatible Simrad chartplotter, this innovative feature allows you to track up to three friends' vessels in real-time on your chart display. Simply program their MMSI numbers, and the system automatically polls their positions via DSC, providing continuous location updates for enhanced safety and coordination during group activities.

Powerful Hailer and Horn System

The integrated 30-watt PA/hailer system provides powerful external communication capabilities for hailing other vessels, dock communications, or emergency announcements. Key hailer features include:

• 30-Watt Power Output: Clear, powerful external audio transmission
• Listen-Back Feature: Monitor external sounds through the hailer horn
• Dedicated Horn Key: Immediate activation without menu navigation
• Built-in Foghorn: 4 selectable fog signal patterns for regulatory compliance
• External Horn Connection: 2-pin cable for remote horn activation
• Voice Record Function: 30-second rewind and playback capability

Advanced DSC and Communication Features

Class D DSC Capability

Full Class D DSC functionality provides automated distress calling, position polling, and selective calling capabilities. The system maintains comprehensive call logs including 10 distress calls and 20 individual calls for complete DSC communication tracking.

Professional Communication Tools

• Alpha Numeric Keypad: Professional-grade input for efficient operation
• 20 User Programmable Names: Store contacts with MMSI numbers for quick access
• Scrambler Option: Private communication capabilities for sensitive operations
• Dual Watch/Tri Watch: Monitor multiple channels simultaneously
• All Channel Priority Scan: Automatic scanning of all available channels

Comprehensive Channel and Regional Support

The RS90S provides complete global communication compatibility with support for:

• All International Channels: Complete ITU international channel coverage
• USA Channels: Full FCC-approved channel set for U.S. waters
• Canadian Channels: Complete Industry Canada approved channels
• ATIS Mode: European inland waterway compatibility
• 10 Weather Channels: NOAA weather with 1050 Hz alert tone detection
• Private Channels: Dealer-programmable private channel support

Advanced Connectivity and Integration

GPS Integration

Built-in GPS connectivity provides automatic time and position updates for enhanced DSC functionality and emergency response. The system features an external SMA connector for GPS500 antenna connection, ensuring precise positioning data for all communications.

Multi-Protocol Connectivity

• NMEA 2000 Interface: Modern network integration capabilities
• NMEA 0183 Connectivity: Traditional marine electronics compatibility
• Chartplotter Integration: Seamless connection with Simrad MFDs
• Backlight Synchronization: Coordinated display brightness with MFDs

Professional Operating Features

• Selectable Power Output: 25-watt and 1-watt transmission options
• Local/Distance Function: Optimize range for specific communication needs
• 3-Channel Functions: Advanced channel management capabilities
• JIS-7 Rated Handset: Professional marine environmental protection
• Future Upgrade Capability: Advanced DSC calling to AIS targets

System Specifications

Physical Dimensions

• Dimensions: 17"L x 11"W x 5"H
• Weight: 8.15 pounds
• Color: Professional black finish
• Mounting: Black box configuration for flexible installation

Communication Specifications

• Transmit Power: 25W/1W selectable
• Hailer Power: 30 watts PA output
• DSC Class: Class D Digital Selective Calling
• AIS Reception: Dual channel AIS receiver
• Channel Coverage: All international, USA, and Canadian channels
• Weather Channels: 10 NOAA channels with alert detection

Environmental and Standards

• Handset Rating: JIS-7 environmental protection
• Marine Grade: Designed for harsh marine environments
• Regulatory Compliance: FCC, Industry Canada, and ITU approved

Installation and Configuration

The RS90S black box design provides maximum installation flexibility, allowing the main unit to be mounted in a protected location while handsets are positioned at optimal locations throughout the vessel. The system includes comprehensive installation documentation and supports both professional and self-installation approaches.

Advanced dealer programming capabilities allow customization of private channels and system configuration to meet specific operational requirements and regulatory compliance needs.

Why Choose Simrad RS90S

The RS90S represents the pinnacle of marine VHF technology, combining Simrad's decades of communication expertise with modern features demanded by today's mariners. Whether you're operating a commercial vessel, large yacht, or serious recreational boat, the RS90S provides the reliability, functionality, and professional-grade performance essential for safe marine communication.

With its unique combination of multi-station capability, integrated AIS, powerful hailer system, and advanced DSC features, the RS90S delivers comprehensive communication solutions that enhance safety, operational efficiency, and crew coordination in any marine environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many stations can the RS90S support?

The RS90S supports up to 6 separate stations total: 4 wired stations and 2 wireless stations. One wired handset is included with the system, with additional handsets available separately. All stations can communicate via the integrated intercom system.

What is the Track-Your-Buddy feature?

Track-Your-Buddy is an exclusive Simrad feature that allows you to track up to 3 friends' boats on your chartplotter screen. The VHF system polls their positions via DSC using their MMSI numbers and displays their real-time locations, enhancing group boating safety and coordination.

Does the RS90S include AIS transmission capability?

The RS90S includes a dual channel AIS receiver for monitoring nearby vessel traffic, but does not transmit AIS signals. It receives and displays AIS information from other vessels and integrates this data with compatible Simrad chartplotters for enhanced situational awareness.

What hailer features are included?

The system includes a 30-watt hailer with listen-back capability, dedicated horn activation key, built-in foghorn with 4 selectable patterns, voice recording with 30-second playback, and external horn connection capability for remote activation.

Is the RS90S compatible with existing chartplotters?

Yes, the RS90S integrates seamlessly with compatible Simrad MFDs and chartplotters through NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connections. This integration enables features like AIS display, Track-Your-Buddy functionality, and synchronized backlighting between devices.

What channels and regions does the RS90S support?

The system supports all international ITU channels, complete USA FCC-approved channels, Canadian Industry Canada channels, European ATIS mode for inland waterways, 10 NOAA weather channels with alert detection, and dealer-programmable private channels for specific operational needs.