Icom IC-M25 Review – Technical Overview and More
The ICOM IC-M25 is a compact, lightweight, and waterproof VHF marine radio that is designed for boaters who want a reliable and easy-to-use communication device. It comes with a variety of features that make it a popular choice among boaters, including its slim design, intuitive user interface, and long battery life.
Technical Specifications:
- Dimensions: 2.28 × 5.28 × 1.2 inches (W × H × D)
- Weight: 7.8 ounces (with battery and antenna)
- Frequency Range: 156.025 – 157.425 MHz
- RF Output Power: 5W (high)/1W (low)
- Waterproof Rating: IPX7 (submersible for up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter)
- Battery Life: Up to 11 hours (typical operation with BP-266 Li-ion battery)
Features in Detail:
- Float ‘N Flash: The IC-M25 is designed to float in water, and its bright flashing LED light helps you to locate it in the dark or low-light conditions.
- Large LCD Display: The radio’s LCD display is easy to read, and it shows all the essential information such as the channel number, battery level, and signal strength.
- Dual/Tri-Watch Function: With the dual/tri-watch function, you can monitor two or three channels simultaneously for emergency or other priority calls.
- Weather Alert: The IC-M25 comes with a weather alert feature that alerts you to any incoming severe weather conditions.
- AquaQuake™: The AquaQuake™ feature clears water away from the speaker grill to ensure clear communication.
- Micro USB Charging: You can charge the IC-M25 via a micro-USB port, which makes it convenient to recharge the battery when you’re away from home.
Compatibility:
The ICOM IC-M25 is compatible with most VHF marine radios, and it can be used to communicate with other radios that use the same frequency band. It also comes with a variety of accessories such as battery chargers, headsets, and microphones that can be used to enhance its functionality.
Price and Availability:
The ICOM IC-M25 is available on various online stores and marine equipment dealerships. Its price varies depending on the retailer, but it typically ranges from $130 to $170.
User Reviews:
The IC-M25 has received positive reviews from many users who appreciate its compact size, long battery life, and ease of use. Some users have reported that the radio’s sound quality is excellent, even in noisy environments, and that it is straightforward to program and navigate.
Read also: Icom IC-R9500 Review
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Waterproof and floats in water
- Long battery life
- Large LCD display
- Dual/Tri-watch function
- Weather alert feature
- AquaQuake™ function
- Micro USB charging
Cons:
- Limited range in some areas
- No GPS or DSC function
- Limited battery life on high power mode
Troubleshooting:
If you encounter any issues with your ICOM IC-M25, you can refer to the user manual or contact ICOM’s customer support team for assistance. Some common issues include battery charging problems, channel programming issues, and sound quality problems.
Maintenance:
To ensure that your IC-M25 operates correctly, you should keep it clean and dry, especially the battery terminals and charging port. You should also store it in a dry and cool place and check the battery regularly to ensure that it is functioning correctly.
Common Questions and Answers:
Q: Can the IC-M25 be used on land?
A: Technically, the IC-M25 can be used on land, but it is designed primarily for marine use. Its range and functionality may be limited when used on land, and it may not be legal to use on certain frequencies.
Q: Can I use the IC-M25 to communicate with other VHF marine radios?
A: Yes, the IC-M25 is compatible with most VHF marine radios and can be used to communicate with other radios that use the same frequency band.
Q: Does the IC-M25 come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the IC-M25 comes with a three-year warranty from the date of purchase.
Q: Is the IC-M25 difficult to program?
A: No, the IC-M25 is straightforward to program, and it comes with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate and use.
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Conclusion:
The ICOM IC-M25 is a compact and lightweight VHF marine radio that is perfect for boaters who want a reliable and easy-to-use communication device. Its slim design, intuitive user interface, and long battery life make it a popular choice among boaters.
While it has some limitations, such as its range and lack of GPS or DSC functionality, it offers many useful features, such as the weather alert, AquaQuake™, and dual/tri-watch functions. Overall, the IC-M25 is an excellent choice for boaters who need a reliable communication device while out on the water.
