Standard Horizon HX300 VHF Marine Radio

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The Standard Horizon HX300 is a handheld  VHF marine radio which has a lot of useful features which make it well suited for sea kayaking applications.


The HX300 has a large backlit display which shows the channel, volume, squelch and the battery charge all on the one page.  The buttons are large and thoughtfully set out, with backlit edges to aid in night time use.  Should you ever drop this radio overboard, the entire unit will float and will remain watertight with an IPX8 waterproof rating.  There is also a water activated flashing LED light as an aid for retrieval in the dark.

  • Selectable High / Low Transmission    5 Watt high / 1Watt low
  • Preset channel scan function
  • 600 mW loud internal speaker audio
  • Programmable scan, Priority scan, Dual watch and Tri-watch
One of the standout features of this VHF radio is the ability to charge it's battery from any USB power source.  This means that I don't need to carry replacement batteries for this device on long trips, all I need to do is top up the charge from the same USB power bank I use for all my other devices.

The USB port is located on the left hand side and has its own sealing compartment which causes a rubberized cap to seal around the USB port when the locking arm closes. 


The locking arm automatically locks into place when the spring loaded arm is pushed shut .  To open the port you slide the locking tab and the entire sealing assembly swings open, giving clear access to the port.


There is a "Press To Talk" ( PTT ) button located on the right had side and a heavy duty belt clip and safety lanyard on the back face.

Access to the battery is from the back face and uses a sealing plate with a gasket to make a water tight seal against the side walls.  The battery sealing plate is secured in place by a clamp at the bottom of the unit.





Understanding Repeater Stations, Simplex and Duplex Channels

note:  To operate a VHF radio in Australia requires a license

Conclusion

The Standard Horizon HX300 Vhf radio has a solid ergonomic feel backed up with IPX8 waterproof rating and three year warranty.  It is a basic model but has all the functionality that a kayaker needs.  The built in speaker delivers high quality voice signals and has ample volume to be heard in all conditions.  Being able to charge this device via USB is a major benefit for long trips.

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