Simrad RS20S VHF Radio w/GPS
Simrad RS20S VHF Radio w/GPS — Product description
Why the Simrad RS20S is Your Go-To VHF Radio for Safe Boating
Navigating busy waters demands reliable communication, and the Simrad RS20S delivers just that with its rugged build and smart features tailored for everyday boaters. Whether you're out on a small RIB for a quick fishing trip or cruising a larger vessel, this fixed-mount VHF radio keeps you connected and safe. Its sleek, low-profile design blends seamlessly with modern glass bridge setups, ensuring your helm stays clutter-free and stylish.
What sets it apart? A built-in GPS receiver that pinpoints your location instantly, even if the rest of your electronics are off. Pair that with Class D DSC capabilities, and you've got a lifeline that automatically shares your position during emergencies—giving rescuers the edge they need to reach you fast.
Standout Features That Make Boating Easier and Safer
- Crystal-Clear Display: High-contrast black-on-white screen shines in sunlight, flipping to inverted white-on-black for night use, so you never squint to read channels or alerts.
- User-Friendly Controls: Spin the rotary dial for effortless channel changes, hit oversized buttons for quick functions, and use dedicated Channel 16 keys on both the radio and fist mic for instant emergency access.
- Integrated GPS Power: No external antenna needed upfront—track your position and share it via DSC calls. Optional external GPS hookup available for enhanced accuracy.
- Smart Connectivity: NMEA 2000 integration syncs with Simrad multifunction displays (MFDs) for backlight grouping and seamless data sharing. NMEA 0183 support adds versatility.
- Buddy Tracking Magic: Store up to five contacts' MMSI numbers and poll their positions at set intervals (1 to 60 minutes). View them on your chartplotter—perfect for staying close to family or fishing buddies.
- Advanced Scanning: Choose ALL SCAN, priority on Channel 16, or customize "My Channels" lists for faster monitoring of your favorites.
- PA Ready: Connect to a public address system for hailing nearby vessels or making announcements from the helm.
From full international channel banks—no programming hassles—to tri-channel watch, every detail is crafted for real-world reliability on the water.
Simple Installation for Any Boat Setup
Getting the RS20S up and running is straightforward. The gimbal bracket supports table-top, overhead, or bulkhead mounting, while a front-mount option lets you flush-install without rear access—ideal for tight spaces. Its compact black design matches Simrad displays, maintaining that clean, professional look.
Power it with 12V DC (handles 10-16V swings), wire up NMEA connections if needed, and run the startup wizard: select your region, enter MMSI and call sign, pick GPS source, and set time offsets. You're ready to transmit in minutes.
Detailed Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range: Transmit | 156.025–157.425 MHz |
| Frequency Range: Receive | 156.050–163.275 MHz |
| Channels | US / INT / All International |
| DSC Class | Class D |
| RF Power Output | High: 23W ± 2W / Low: 0.8W ± 0.2W |
| Operating Voltage | 10–16V DC |
| Current Drain (High Power) | ≤6A at 12V DC |
| Audio Output | ≥2.5W at 10% THD |
| Sensitivity (12dB SINAD) | ≤-6 dBuV |
| Adjacent Channel Selectivity | ≥70 dB |
These specs ensure robust performance in tough marine environments, from spurious emission control to precise frequency stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Class D DSC and why does it matter?
Class D DSC is a digital distress signaling system that sends your GPS position automatically during emergencies. It alerts nearby vessels with DSC radios, speeding up rescue efforts without relying solely on voice calls.
Does the RS20S work with other Simrad displays?
Yes, via NMEA 2000, it connects to Simrad MFDs for features like unified backlighting, position display, and buddy tracking overlays on charts.
Can I track friends' boats with this radio?
Absolutely—add up to five buddies by MMSI, set polling intervals, and see their positions on compatible plotters. Great for group outings.
Is installation DIY-friendly?
Very much so. Front-mount capability, gimbal options, and a simple wizard make it accessible for most boat owners, with minimal tools required.
What channels does it support?
All international channels, plus US and others, preloaded by region—no need for special programming. Customize favorites for quick access.
How does the display handle day and night boating?
A high-contrast display auto-adapts: black-on-white for daylight glare, inverted for low-light conditions, ensuring readability anytime.
Stay safe and in touch with this dependable Class D DSC approved VHF radio featuring an integrated GPS receiver. The versatile RS20S is ideal for a variety of boats from small RIBs to larger cruisers, and is designed to match the low-profile style of our glass bridge displays and accessories. An Easy to Use Radio for Any Vessel: See clearly in bright daylight with a high contrast black-on-white display, and inverted white-on-black night mode. A rotary dial makes channel selection easy, while large buttons provide quick access to other key functions. Dedicated Channel 16 keys, found on both the radio and its fist microphone, offer instant access to the emergency channel. An gimbal bracket enables simple table-top, overhead, or bulkhead installation. Flush-mount installation is also possible, with an easy mount-from-front solution, to match the low-profile style of our glass bridge displays and accessories. Class D DSC Approved: DSC, or "Digital Selective Calling", makes it easier to stay in touch with other boaters and enables you to broadcast your boat's location during an emergency. If you find yourself in trouble, the RS20’s dedicated "distress" button will initiate a DSC distress call that sends your boat's position to anyone within VHF range. Used together with a traditional radio distress call, this makes it easier for other boaters with DSC-capable radios to register your situation and come to your aid. An integrated GPS receiver means your position can be sent even if your boat's other electronics are powered down.
Simrad 0014491001 Attributes
- Type: Fixed Mount
- GPS Capable: Yes
- Public Address System: PA System Capable
- Color: Black
Simrad 0014491001 Features & Benefits
- High-Visibility Display With Inverted Night Mode
- Intuitive Rotary Dial And Keypad Controls
- Four-Button Fist Microphone
- Class D DSC Approved
- Integrated GPS Receiver
- NMEA 2000 ® Connectivity
- Dedicated Emergency Channel Key
- Tri-Channel Watch Function
- All International Channels
- Limited 2 Year Warranty
Simrad 0014491001 Warranties
RS20S VHF Radio with GPS
Features:
- Built in GPS Antenna
- Receive GPS data from a compatible GPS unit: SMA connector for optional external GPS antenna (000-13613-001)
- Replaces the current RS12 entry level VHF
- NMEA2000 connectivity for advanced functionality like backlight grouping when connected to Simrad MFD’s
- NMEA0183 connectivity
- Output DSC (for DSC call), DSE ( for enhanced position when doing Lat/Long request and Buddy Track).
- New front mountable mechanical design for easy installation
- Low profile design to align with style of Simrad MFD’s
- Full inbuilt country specific channel banks
- no requirement for LC programming or cloning
Start Up Wizard:
- Region & Country selection
- Enter MMSI
- Call sign
- GPS source selection
- Time offset
Improved SCAN Features:
- ALL SCAN
- ALL CHANNELS + 16
- MY CHANNELS
- MY CHANNELS + 16
Favourites Shortcut:
- Customizable favourite functions
- Defaults
- Contrast
- Sensitivity
- VHF info
Channel Name:
- My Channels
- Set Channels as favourite channels
- Enter favourite channel mode by long pressing channel dial
- Only favourite channels will be included in channel scrolling
Track up to 5 Buddies:
Track buddy is a feature that automatically requests the position of another VHF radio. Simply enter the MMSI of the VHF into your contact list, then start tracking!
- Feature for Simrad entry level VHF radios
- Polls your contacts for their Lat/Long position automatically
- Can be set to 1, 5, 15, 30 or 60 minute intervals
- Displays the position on a compatible chart plotter
- Great for keeping track of friends, family or vessels you need to know the position of
"Stay safe and in touch with this dependable Class D DSC approved VHF radio featuring an integrated GPS receiver. The versatile RS20S is ideal for a variety of boats from small RIBs to larger cruisers, and is designed to match the low-profile style of our glass bridge displays and accessories."
SKU: NVN-74619
MPN: 000-14491-001
UPC: 9420024172797
Technical specifications
| Brand | Simrad |
| Model | Simrad RS20S VHF Radio w/GPS |
| SKU / MFR# | 74619 |
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Frequently asked questions
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