Overview

The Garmin 010-02096-00 is a fixed-mount VHF marine radio that transmits up to 25 W and includes Class D DSC with a built-in GPS receiver for position-enabled calling.

It runs on a 12.0 Vdc system and is rated IPX7 (IEC 60529), so it holds up well at an exposed helm where spray, vibration, and quick wipe-downs are part of normal boating. Channel coverage includes U.S., Canadian, and international marine channels, plus 10 NOAA weather channels.

For networked helms, the radio can share DSC call information and GPS position with compatible electronics over NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183. The radio uses one protocol at a time, which helps keep wiring and troubleshooting straightforward.

Key features

• 25 W maximum transmit power with 1 W and 25 W transmit modes for close-range work and full-power calling.
• Class D DSC with user-entered MMSI, including distress calling and direct calling, supported by the internal GPS receiver.
• NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 connectivity for sharing DSC and position information with compatible chartplotters and onboard electronics.
• IPX7 water rating (IEC 60529) for incidental exposure, including immersion up to 1 m for up to 30 minutes.
• Operates on 12.0 Vdc with typical current draw of 350 mA (standby) and 600 mA (receive), and 2.0 A to 6.0 A while transmitting (1 W to 25 W).
• SO-239 (50 ohm) antenna connector and maximum antenna gain of 9 dBi.
• Compact body size of 8.5 x 17 x 14.6 cm (3.35 x 6.7 x 5.75 in.) and a 70 cm (27.6 in.) compass-safe distance.

Installation and setup

This radio supports bail mounting or a flush-mount dashboard install. For a flush mount, plan for the full depth behind the panel and leave space for the antenna coax, power leads, and any network cabling so the connectors are not under strain.

The VHF antenna is required and connects via the SO-239 port. The internal GPS works best when the mounting location has a reasonable view of the sky. If the helm location blocks reception, a remote GPS antenna with a female BNC connector can be used, or the radio can use a GPS source available on the NMEA 2000 network.

Electrical and system integration

Power is 12.0 Vdc, so this is a direct fit for most boats with a 12 V electrical system. When planning wiring runs, treat transmit current as the high-load case and keep the power path clean and secure to avoid voltage drop when keying up at 25 W.

On NMEA 2000, the radio presents a LEN of 1 (50 mA at 9.0 Vdc). If you tie it into a NMEA 2000 backbone, keep the network power on an ignition switch or an in-line switch to avoid unnecessary battery drain when the boat is parked.

Compatibility and fit

The VHF 115 is a good match for a helm that needs DSC with GPS position and basic network sharing without moving up into AIS or hailer functions. The VHF 115 model does not support connection to a hailer horn, and it does not have the additional microphone port found on other models in the series.

If you are installing near a compass, follow the 70 cm (27.6 in.) compass-safe distance to reduce magnetic interference.

Use cases on board

This radio fits well on fishing boats, center consoles, and cruisers where a fixed-mount VHF is the primary voice radio and weather monitoring matters on day trips. It also suits boats that want DSC position in an emergency, with the GPS coming from the internal receiver or the existing NMEA network.

What’s included

• VHF 115 marine radio
• Bail mount with knobs and mounting hardware
• Protective cover
• Trim ring snap cover
• Flush mount gasket
• Power cable
• Documentation