Icom IC-M85 VHF Marine Transceiver

Description

Icom IC-M85 VHF Marine Transceiver – Ultra-Compact, Dual-Use Radio for Maritime and Land Communication

The Icom IC-M85 is a professional-grade, ultra-compact VHF transceiver designed for maritime professionals who require reliable communication on both land and sea. Built to military-grade ruggedness and loaded with both marine and LMR (Land Mobile Radio) channels, the IC-M85 is the go-to radio for workboats, tug crews, harbor security, offshore rigs, and coastal operations. It offers 100 programmable channels, built-in voice scrambling, weather alert functionality, and an intuitive interface—all packed into a lightweight, water-resistant body that fits comfortably in your hand or pocket. Whether you’re coordinating with your vessel’s crew or responding to emergency conditions, this radio keeps your team connected, loud and clear, in even the harshest marine environments.

Key Features of Icom IC-M85 VHF Marine Transceiver

1. Dual-Use Operation with Marine and Land Mobile Frequencies

Unlike standard marine radios, the IC-M85 supports both VHF marine and land mobile (LMR) bands. It includes all standard VHF marine channels plus 100 programmable channels for business or onshore communications (136–174 MHz). This makes it ideal for crew members who operate both on ships and at dockside facilities—no need to carry separate radios for each zone. Switch modes quickly using the dedicated LMR channel selector, enabling seamless coordination across teams with different operational roles.

2. Ultra-Compact and Lightweight Design for Everyday Portability

Weighing just 247 grams (with battery and antenna) and standing under 10cm tall, the IC-M85 is one of the smallest professional VHF radios on the market. It fits easily in your palm or clips onto a belt or vest without weighing you down. The compact profile is especially useful for crew members working in confined spaces, engine rooms, or decks where agility is essential. Despite its size, the radio is designed to be glove-friendly with large, well-spaced buttons.

3. IP67 Waterproof and MIL-STD-810G Ruggedness for Real-World Use

The IC-M85 is built to survive the realities of life at sea. With an IP67 rating, it can withstand submersion in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. It also meets U.S. military standard MIL-STD-810G for resistance to shock, vibration, temperature, and humidity. Whether it’s splashed by salt spray or dropped on a steel deck, this radio continues to perform reliably. The tightly sealed casing keeps out sand, dust, and oil, making it suitable for everything from dockside maintenance to offshore emergencies.

4. Loud and Clear Audio Output for Noisy Environments

Communication clarity is critical in marine operations, especially in noisy engine bays or during high winds on deck. The IC-M85 features a powerful 700mW audio output and noise-canceling microphone, ensuring that your voice cuts through background noise. Received messages come through with full-bodied clarity, reducing the risk of miscommunication during crucial tasks like docking, towing, or man-overboard response.

5. Voice Scrambler Function for Secure Private Communication

For operations where discretion is important, the IC-M85 includes a built-in voice scrambler with 32 codes. This feature is essential for private communication among crew members or between different vessels operating in busy or competitive ports. It helps prevent unauthorized interception of sensitive messages, whether coordinating cargo offloading or managing restricted access zones.

6. Emergency Functions: Lone Worker, Man Down, and Silent Alarm

Safety features are central to the IC-M85’s design. The radio includes Lone Worker mode (to detect periods of inactivity), Man Down alert (to detect if the unit falls or tilts abruptly), and Silent Alarm transmission for sending distress signals without broadcasting audibly. These programmable features are lifesavers on ships, offshore platforms, or in isolated areas where every second counts during emergencies.

7. Long-Lasting Battery Life with Quick Recharge Option

Powered by a high-capacity 2010mAh Li-ion battery, the IC-M85 offers up to 14 hours of operating time on a single charge, even with regular transmissions. Its battery can be fully recharged in just 3 hours using the included BC-227 rapid charger. A battery status indicator keeps you informed, and optional battery packs or multi-chargers are available for busy fleet operations or long-term deployments.

8. Simple User Interface with Large Display and Custom Shortcuts

The IC-M85 is designed for ease of use even in gloves or wet conditions. It features a backlit LCD with clear status icons, programmable soft keys for quick access to favorite channels or emergency functions, and a channel naming feature to eliminate guesswork. The user interface is designed to minimize training time—ideal for crews with rotating staff or contract workers.

How to Use the Icom IC-M85 VHF Marine Transceiver

1. Power On the Device and Select Your Channel Group:
   To start using the IC-M85, rotate the top knob clockwise to turn it on and increase the volume to a comfortable level. The radio supports both marine and land mobile frequencies, so use the top “Group” button to switch between Marine bands (INT, USA, CAN, WX) and pre-programmed Land channels (136–174 MHz). This dual-mode feature makes it suitable for both maritime and professional on-land operations. Once the display shows the correct band, you can scroll through the channels using the up/down buttons.

2. Adjust Transmit Power and Use Scanning Features:
   The IC-M85 lets you switch between high and low transmission power—5W for marine and 2W for land. Press the power select button if you’re communicating over a short distance to save battery. For monitoring safety channels, enable “Dual Watch” to listen to Channel 16 and your current channel, or activate “Tri-Watch” to monitor the call channel, CH 16, and your selected channel simultaneously. These scanning features are essential during emergencies or when staying aware of weather alerts and distress signals.

3. Activate Safety Alarms Like MOB and Man-Down:
   One of the key highlights of this radio is its built-in safety features. You can activate the Man-Down alarm, which will automatically send a distress alert if the radio remains motionless for a certain period, useful for solo workers. The Lone Worker mode requires periodic user interaction, and if missed, it triggers an alert. The dedicated MOB (Man Overboard) button instantly sends an emergency signal. These features are programmable and offer advanced safety monitoring for marine and on-land environments.

4. Use VOX and Voice Scrambler for Enhanced Communication:
   The IC-M85 includes VOX (voice-operated transmission), allowing hands-free operation using a compatible headset. This is highly useful when you need both hands for other tasks. It also features a 32-code voice scrambler, enabling private communications that are not easily intercepted. To use the scrambler, go into the function settings and enable the scrambling code on both radios. This makes the device ideal for commercial environments that require secure communication.

5. Clear Speaker and Monitor with AquaQuake and Tri-Watch:
   If the speaker gets wet during operation, you can activate the AquaQuake feature by pressing and holding a dedicated button. This vibrates the speaker diaphragm to clear out water, restoring sound quality. You should also regularly use Tri-Watch mode while navigating at sea, as it lets you keep track of the most critical communication channels at once. These built-in tools ensure your device always delivers clear, uninterrupted audio when you need it most.

How to Clean the Icom IC-M85 VHF Radio

1. Rinse the Device with Fresh Water After Exposure to Salt:
   After using the radio in a saltwater environment, rinse the body gently with clean freshwater. Salt residue can corrode the casing and compromise waterproof seals over time. Hold the radio upright and do not press any buttons during the rinse to avoid water entering through the keypads. Dry the device thoroughly with a clean towel after rinsing.

2. Wipe the Speaker and Screen with a Microfiber Cloth:
   Use a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth to gently clean the screen and speaker grill. Avoid paper towels or rough materials as they may scratch the display or leave debris behind. Wipe in small circles with light pressure, and avoid introducing moisture into the mic or speaker ports during cleaning.

3. Use AquaQuake to Expel Water from the Speaker:
   If the speaker becomes muffled due to water entry, activate AquaQuake mode. This feature emits a low-frequency vibration that helps push water out of the speaker mesh. After using AquaQuake, leave the radio to air-dry in a well-ventilated space before storing or using again.

4. Remove Battery and Clean the Terminals Gently:
   Occasionally, remove the battery pack and use a dry cotton swab or cloth to clean the metal contacts on both the radio and battery. Avoid using liquids or sprays as they could damage internal components. Keeping terminals clean ensures a reliable electrical connection and longer battery life.

5. Let the Unit Fully Dry Before Charging or Storing.
   Before storing or connecting the radio to its charger, make sure the device is completely dry. Store the radio in a dry location, away from direct sunlight or moisture. Avoid enclosing it in a sealed container while still damp, as this can lead to internal condensation or mold growth over time.

How to Take Care of the Icom IC-M85 Transceiver

1. Store in a Protective Case to Prevent Damage:
   Always use a padded or hard case to store your transceiver when not in use. This protects it from accidental drops, knocks, and dust accumulation. A quality case also ensures that the antenna and knobs aren’t damaged during transport or storage, especially during travel or when stored in a boat locker.

2. Avoid Extreme Heat or Sudden Temperature Swings:
   The radio is built to operate in extreme environments, but frequent sudden temperature changes (like moving from an air-conditioned room to a hot deck) can cause condensation inside the device. Let the radio acclimate gradually to avoid internal fogging or electronic stress.

3. Rotate and Charge Batteries Regularly:
   If you’re using the radio daily, it’s essential to rotate between battery packs. Use the BP-290 for standard use or the higher capacity BP-294 for extended shifts. Avoid fully depleting the battery before charging, and never leave the battery in a discharged state for long periods.

4. Check for Seal and Antenna Wear Occasionally:
   Regularly inspect the rubber gaskets around the battery cover, antenna base, and keypad for signs of wear or cracking. Replace these parts if they show signs of deterioration to maintain the unit’s waterproof rating. Ensure the antenna is always hand-tight but not overtightened.

5. Test Safety Alarms and VOX Sensitivity Periodically:
   Every few weeks, test the Man-Down, Lone Worker, and VOX features to ensure they’re still functioning correctly. This is especially important in professional settings where your safety may rely on the radio. Go into the menu and run a short test for each alarm to confirm activation and timing.

Dos and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Use AquaQuake regularly to clear the speaker after water exposure

• Program channels and emergency alerts before each trip

• Rinse with clean water after use in salt spray or dusty environments

• Charge the battery before it fully drains to extend life

• Store in a cool, dry area with the battery removed if unused for long time

Don’ts:

• Don’t press buttons or change channels while the device is underwater

• Don’t leave the radio exposed to direct sunlight for hours

• Don’t use alcohol, solvents, or abrasive materials to clean the screen

• Don’t over-tighten the antenna or battery case

• Don’t ignore error codes or low-battery warnings during critical use

Safety Tips

1. Never Use the Radio Without Checking Channel Settings:
   Before each use, make sure the channel group is correctly set for your operating environment. Transmitting on the wrong frequency may violate regulations and cause communication issues in emergencies.

2. Use the Highest Power Setting Only When Necessary:
   Use 5W marine output for long-range only when needed—this saves battery and prevents unnecessary signal congestion. For nearby vessels or short-distance communication, switch to 1W to reduce drain.

3. Secure the Radio with a Lanyard or Belt Clip:
   The IC-M85 comes with accessories like a belt clip or an optional floatable case. Always secure the radio while on deck or in motion to prevent accidental drops into the water or onto hard surfaces.

4. Keep Away from Children and Unauthorized Users:
   The emergency alarms and transmit functions should only be used by trained or responsible individuals. Children playing with the unit may trigger alarms or cause unintentional transmissions.

5. Keep It as a Secondary Radio, Not the Sole Device:
   Despite its rugged design, never rely on a handheld radio as your only form of communication. Always pair it with a fixed VHF radio system for redundancy, especially on long or offshore voyages.

Why Should You Choose This Product?

1. Dual-Use Flexibility for Marine and Land Applications:
   The IC-M85 is one of the rare radios that supports both marine and land mobile frequencies, making it highly versatile. You can switch between ship communication and jobsite use without needing two devices.

2. Compact Size Without Compromising Durability:
   At just under 250 grams, this radio is easy to carry all day. Despite its small size, it meets military-grade MIL-STD-810 standards and is IP67-rated—completely dust-tight and waterproof up to 1 meter.

3. Loud and Clear 700mW Audio in Noisy Environments:
   Designed for noisy docks, engine rooms, and rough seas, the IC-M85 provides powerful, distortion-free sound through its 700mW speaker output, ensuring your messages are heard no matter the noise level.

4. Built-In Safety Features Give You Peace of Mind:
   With programmable emergency alerts like Man-Down, Lone Worker, and MOB, this radio is more than a communication tool—it’s a personal safety system built for hazardous work and unpredictable seas.

5. Professional-Grade Performance with Easy Operation:
   With its intuitive controls, fast access buttons, and robust feature set, the IC-M85 caters to both casual and professional users. It’s a reliable companion for fishermen, sailors, rescue teams, and industrial workers.