Furuno FM4850 Black Box VHF Radio w/GPS, AIS, DSC & Loudhailer Product Description

Furuno FM4850 Black Box VHF Radio: Ultimate 5-in-1 Marine Communication System

Experience unparalleled marine communication capability with the Furuno FM4850 Black Box VHF Radio – the most comprehensive fixed-mount VHF solution combining Class D DSC, AIS receiver, GPS capability, and 15-watt loudhailer in one compact, space-saving unit. Perfect for center-console boats and vessels with limited space, this NMEA2000 certified system delivers professional-grade communication and safety features that serious mariners demand.

Revolutionary 5-in-1 Marine Communication Platform

The FM4850 eliminates the need for multiple devices by integrating essential marine electronics into a single black box solution. This innovative design provides VHF radio communication, automatic identification system (AIS) vessel tracking, digital selective calling (DSC) for emergency response, GPS positioning data, and powerful loudhailer capabilities – all through one streamlined installation.

Advanced DSC and Emergency Response Features

Built-in Class D DSC functionality ensures instant emergency communication compliance with international maritime safety standards. The system seamlessly integrates with Furuno NavNet TZtouch2 MFDs, allowing you to initiate DSC calls directly from your chartplotter by simply tapping AIS targets. In man overboard (MOB) situations, the FM4850 automatically enters emergency mode, enabling one-touch distress calling from the handset's rotary knob.

Professional AIS Receiver Integration

The integrated AIS receiver provides real-time vessel tracking and collision avoidance capabilities, overlaying AIS targets on compatible GPS plotters and MFDs including NavNet TZtouch series and GP1871F/GP1971F combo units. This critical safety feature enhances situational awareness in busy waterways and reduces collision risk during low-visibility conditions.

Multi-Station Communication System

Expand your communication network with support for up to three stations using optional HS4800A full-function remote handsets (effective range up to 30 meters). The intercom feature enables clear bridge-to-deck communication, while the unique "Listen Back" function allows the horn speaker to capture external sounds – particularly valuable for sport fishing vessels monitoring rod strikes or commercial vessels coordinating deck operations.

Powerful 15-Watt Loudhailer and PA System

The built-in loudhailer system delivers clear communication in challenging marine environments with eight programmable alert patterns. Essential safety signals including fog horn and warning signals enhance navigation safety during reduced visibility conditions. The PA functionality provides clear communication for docking procedures, crew coordination, and emergency announcements.

Technical Specifications and Installation

Network Integration and Compatibility

• NMEA Connectivity: Single NMEA2000 connection for seamless network integration
• Legacy Support: NMEA0183 output for older equipment compatibility
• GPS Integration: Built-in GPS receiver (requires optional GPA017 antenna)
• Data Sharing: Outputs position, AIS, and DSC data across network
• MFD Integration: Direct DSC calling from TZtouch2 MFDs (software version 6.21+)

Construction and Environmental Protection

• Waterproof Rating: IP67 rating for transceiver, handset, and speaker
• Construction: Robust metal housing designed for marine environments
• Space Efficiency: Compact black box design suitable for center-console boats
• Installation: Simplified mounting with waterproof design

Communication Capabilities

• VHF Channels: Full international and US marine VHF channel coverage
• DSC Class: Class D Digital Selective Calling capability
• AIS Reception: Integrated AIS receiver for vessel tracking
• Loudhailer Power: 15-watt output for clear external communication
• Alert Patterns: Eight programmable fog/warning signal patterns

Package Contents and Installation Components

• FM4850 Black Box Transceiver Unit
• HS4800 Full-Function Handset
• SP4800 Waterproof Speaker
• UHF Antenna Connector
• Mounting Hardware (4x Tapping Screws)
• Electrical Components (2x 8A Fuses)
• Comprehensive Installation and Operator Manual

Integration with Furuno Ecosystem

The FM4850 handset maintains design consistency with Furuno's professional marine electronics lineup, including NavNet TZtouch2, NavPilot 711C, and FI70 instrument series. This unified appearance creates a cohesive helm layout while ensuring intuitive operation across all Furuno equipment. The system's NMEA2000 certification guarantees reliable network performance and data sharing with other marine electronics.

Professional Installation and Compliance

Designed for straightforward installation, the FM4850's black box configuration minimizes helm space requirements while maintaining full functionality. The system meets all relevant maritime communication standards and FCC requirements for marine VHF operation. Professional installation ensures optimal antenna placement and network integration for maximum performance and safety compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the FM4850 different from standard VHF radios?

The FM4850 combines five critical marine systems into one unit: VHF radio, Class D DSC, AIS receiver, GPS capability, and loudhailer with intercom. This integration eliminates the need for separate devices while providing space-saving installation and unified operation.

Can I use the FM4850 without a GPS antenna?

The VHF radio and AIS receiver functions operate independently, but DSC emergency calling and GPS position sharing require the optional GPA017 GPS antenna. This antenna is essential for full DSC compliance and position reporting capabilities.

How does the AIS integration work with existing chartplotters?

The FM4850 outputs AIS target data via NMEA2000 or NMEA0183 to compatible chartplotters and MFDs. AIS targets appear as overlays on your navigation display, providing real-time vessel tracking and collision avoidance information.

What is the range for additional handset stations?

Optional HS4800A remote handsets operate effectively up to 30 meters from the main unit, allowing full VHF functionality from multiple locations on larger vessels. Up to three total stations can be installed per system.

Does the loudhailer feature work during VHF operation?

The FM4850 can switch between VHF communication and loudhailer operation as needed. The system includes intercom functionality between stations and the unique "Listen Back" feature that allows the horn speaker to capture external sounds for bridge communication.

Is the FM4850 compatible with older NMEA0183 equipment?

Yes, the FM4850 outputs position, AIS, and DSC data in both NMEA2000 and NMEA0183 formats, ensuring compatibility with legacy marine electronics while providing modern network integration capabilities.

FM4850 Black Box VHF Radio with GPS, AIS, DSC & Loudhailer

The Ultimate 5-In-1 Tool of VHF Radios

The FM4850 is a marine Black Box VHF radiotelephone with built-in Class D DSC, AIS Receiver, and Simplified Loud Hailer with intercom. Its compact housing enables it to be installed in a variety of craft, even vessels where space is limited, such as center-console boats.The FM4850 handset shares a common appearance with other Furuno equipment, such as NavNet TZtouch2, NavPilot 711C, and the FI70 Instrument series, offering an integrated appearance to any helm. Its built-in AIS Receiver can be used to overlay AIS targets with networked GPS Plotters or MFD's, such as NavNet TZtouch, NavNet TZtouch2, or GP1871F/GP1971F combo units.

Built-In DSC & AIS 

An external GPS antenna can be connected to the FM4850, and it can share its own GPS, DSC and AIS information via NMEA0183 or NMEA2000. When connected via NMEA2000 to any NavNet TZtouch2 MFD, DSC calling can be initiated directly from the TZtouch2 MFD by simply tapping on the AIS/DSC target and selecting [DSC Call]. Additionally, when MOB (Man Overboard) is activated on a TZtouch2 MFD, the FM4850 enters a special mode where you can initiate a distress call by simply pushing the rotary knob on the handset.

Loud Hailer, Intercom & Listen Back Features

The unit can operate as a simplified Loud Hailer with intercom, featuring 8 patterns of alert sounds. Loud Hailer, Fog Horn and Warning Signal features are all available, enhancing onboard safety and communications while navigating in the dark or fog. When connected with the second-station handset, intercom communications are available, allowing communications between the two devices. Additionally, the horn speaker can be used to collect external sounds and transmit them through the built-in speaker with a function called Listen Back. In this way, a person on the deck can easily communicate with the bridge, a particularly useful feature for a variety of fishing vessels and workboats. The Listen Back function can also be an effective tool on sport fishing vessels, allowing the horn speaker to collect the sound from fishing rods and lines when you get a strike.

Features:

• NMEA2000 Certified VHF, AIS Receiver, 30-Watt Loudhailer, GPS*, Remote DSC & Multi-Station Intercom
• Up to 3-stations w/optional HS4800A full-function remotes (up to 30 meters)
• Single NMEA2000 connection for backup GPS*/AIS Receiver/Remote DSC 
• Outputs NMEA0183 Position, AIS and DSC data to legacy equipment
• IP67 waterproof transceiver, handset & speaker
• Simple installation thanks to its robust metal & waterproof black box design
• Initiate DSC calls directly from TZtouch2 MFDs (version 6.21 software)

*Built-in GPS Receiver requires optional GPS Antenna, such as the GPA017

Black box VHF radio with DSC and AIS The FM4850 black box can provide all the functions that VHF does not have and many high-end functions without occupying the main space of the console. The only hardware on the console is a handheld microphone, but the back of the console is where the black box is to be installed. FM 4850 has all the standard functions of VHF radio, such as 25 watt output power, weather channel and Class D DSC. The 4850's high-end features include NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 compatibility, so you can connect it to any compatible NMEA device on the board. You can even add an external GPS antenna Furuno GPA017 so that the FM4850 can get GPS data without connecting to a plotter. Not only can you send and receive standard routine calls, you can also use Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling) for SOS distress calls in emergency situations. The built-in AIS receiver will provide situational awareness to help provide greater safety at sea or in the bay by providing data about other ships. FM4850 comes with a 15-watt PA/Loud Hailer with 8 different automatic fog/warning signals. With the help of the listening function, you can listen through the PA in case the crew needs to respond to your message. You can also add a second radio station, which can be used to transmit on VHF or communicate with other microphones. If you are looking for high-quality black box VHF, then FM4850 is your best choice.

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