Overview

The Simrad RS40-B is a fixed-mount VHF radio that combines Class D DSC calling with a full Class B AIS transceiver and an internal GPS receiver for DSC and AIS position data. It runs on a 12 V DC system (13.6 V nominal), transmits at 25 W or 1 W, and is rated IPX7 for wet-weather use at the helm.

AIS targets can be viewed on the radio screen or shared to a compatible multifunction display for overlay via NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183. The internal GPS is rated at under 10 m horizontal accuracy with a 1-second typical update interval, and the chassis measures 201.2 mm wide x 97.8 mm high x 163.3 mm deep (7.92 in x 3.85 in x 6.43 in) without the bracket.

This is a solid fit for boaters who want one radio to handle voice, DSC distress calling, and AIS transmit and receive, with the option to add wireless handsets for coverage beyond the main helm.

Key features

• Class D DSC VHF with dual receiver for dedicated Channel 70 handling
• VHF transmit power: 25 W high power or 1 W low power
• Integrated Class B AIS transceiver for AIS transmit and receive
• Internal GPS receiver rated under 10 m accuracy with 1-second typical position updates
• NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity for sharing position, DSC data, and AIS information with compatible electronics
• Removable fist mic with front or rear connection option for cleaner installs and flexible mounting locations
• Supports up to two wireless handsets and on-board intercom functionality (up to 80 m line-of-sight base-to-handset range)
• Connections for optional hailer output (30 W at 4 ohms) and an external speaker (minimum 4 W at 4 ohms)
• 12 V DC system with up to 6 A current draw at 25 W transmit, and an 8 A replacement fuse specification

Variants

This product is offered in multiple configurations based on whether a GPS-500 antenna is included.

All variants are the RS40-B fixed-mount VHF with Class B AIS and an internal GPS receiver. The difference is the GPS-500 antenna bundle option.

• 000-14473-001: GPS-500 antenna: No. The radio uses its internal GPS receiver for position data, which keeps the install straightforward when the mounting location has good sky view.
• 000-14818-001: GPS-500 antenna: Yes. This adds the GPS-500 external GPS antenna, which can help when the radio is mounted under a hardtop, inside a console, or anywhere satellite reception is reduced.

Installation and mounting

The RS40-B supports bracket or flush mounting, and it helps to plan for 163.3 mm (6.43 in) of behind-panel depth for the base unit without the bracket. Keep the radio at least 0.5 m (1.5 ft) from the compass, and choose a location where the display is readable and the microphone can be reached quickly in rough water.

The removable fist mic can be plugged into the front or the rear connection, which makes it easier to hide cable runs or mount the base unit overhead while keeping the mic down at the dash.

Electrical and antenna setup

Power is intended for a 12 V DC battery system, with low-voltage alert around 10.5 V and over-voltage protection above 15.8 V. Current draw is rated up to 6 A at 25 W transmit, so wiring and circuit protection should be sized for a fixed-mount VHF installation.

For RF connections, the unit uses SO-239 antenna connectors for both the VHF antenna and the AIS antenna, plus an SMA connector for a GPS antenna. AIS transmit and receive performance depends on proper antenna installation and separation, so plan your antenna layout early, especially on smaller boats with limited mounting points.

Network and navigation integration

NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connections let the RS40-B share AIS and position-related data with compatible displays and onboard systems. If you run a Simrad network at the helm, the backlight can be synchronized over NMEA 2000 so the radio display tracks with the rest of your electronics at night.