Standard Horizon GX1800G Explorer Series – Black – 25W Fixed Mount VHF with Built-In GPS & Class D DSC
A compact fixed-mount VHF built for practical DSC safety calling with an internal WAAS GPS receiver, dedicated CH70 DSC receiver,
and second-station capability. Designed to simplify DSC installation while adding useful navigation and group features.
Key Selling Features
- Built-in 66-channel WAAS GPS receiver for DSC position and time (no external GPS required)
- 25W / 1W transmit power with Class D DSC
- Separate receiver for CH70 (receives DSC calls continuously)
- Ultra-slim rear case design (depth 3.3 in / 82 mm) for easier installs in tight helms
- NMEA 0183 connectivity for optional chartplotter integration and data sharing
- E2O (Easy to Operate) icon and menu system
- Preset key stores up to 10 favorite channels
- Second-station capable with optional RAM4 wired remote microphone (SSM-70H)
- Intercom feature between the radio and an optional second station
- Programmable Scan, Priority Scan, and Multi Watch
- Automatic DSC polling of up to 6 ships’ GPS positions
- GM (Group Monitor) using DSC group position calling
- MOB (Man Over Board) operation
- GPS compass, waypoint, and GPS status pages; navigate to a saved waypoint
- Selectable night mode display
- Noise-canceling microphone with dedicated 16/S and H/L keys
- NOAA weather channels with Weather Alert
- Submersible IPX8 waterproof rating (1.5 m for 30 minutes)
Overview
The GX1800G is built for boaters who want a modern DSC VHF with a simpler install path. With internal GPS, the radio has the
position and time data it needs to support DSC features right out of the box, without relying on a separate GPS feed.
A dedicated CH70 receiver keeps DSC monitoring active while you use voice channels.
Built-In GPS: Simple DSC Setup
The GX1800G includes an internal 66-channel WAAS GPS receiver to provide position and time for DSC functions without wiring an external GPS.
For many installations, this is the difference between “DSC installed” and “DSC actually working with position.”
DSC Safety Calling
DSC enables one-touch distress calling and direct digital vessel-to-vessel calling. To use DSC properly:
- You must program a valid MMSI number into the radio
- Built-in GPS provides position/time for distress and position-enabled DSC features
- DSC polling allows requesting/reporting positions (as supported) for up to 6 vessels
- Group Monitor supports DSC group position calling for coordinated boating
Waypoint Navigation + Compass Pages
The GX1800G includes GPS status pages and a compass page that allows you to enter, save, and navigate to a waypoint.
Navigation information such as LAT/LON, SOG, and COG can be shown on the display.
Second Station + Intercom (Optional)
Second-station capability supports an optional RAM4 wired remote microphone (SSM-70H), providing control from another location onboard.
Intercom functionality is available between the main radio and the second station.
NMEA 0183 Integration (Optional)
NMEA 0183 input/output allows optional integration with compatible chartplotters and onboard electronics for data sharing and redundancy.
If your boat is primarily NMEA 2000-based and you specifically need N2K connectivity at the radio, consider the GX1850 instead.
Specifications
| Transmit Power |
25W / 1W |
| DSC Class |
Class D DSC |
| DSC Receiver |
Dedicated CH70 receiver |
| GPS |
Built-in 66-channel WAAS GPS receiver |
| Rear Case Depth |
3.3 in (82 mm) |
| NMEA |
NMEA 0183 (Input / Output) |
| Weather |
NOAA weather channels with Weather Alert |
| Waterproof Rating |
IPX8 (1.5 m for 30 minutes) |
| Second Station |
Optional RAM4 wired remote microphone (SSM-70H) |
Downloads
FAQ
Do I need to connect an external GPS for DSC?
No. The GX1800G includes a built-in WAAS GPS receiver that provides position and time for DSC features.
Do I still need an MMSI number?
Yes. A valid MMSI must be programmed to use DSC distress calling and DSC vessel-to-vessel calling.
Can I add a second station?
Yes. The GX1800G supports an optional RAM4 wired remote microphone (SSM-70H) and includes an intercom feature between stations.
Does the GX1800G support NMEA 2000?
This model is designed around NMEA 0183 connectivity. If you specifically need NMEA 2000 at the radio, consider the GX1850 model.
What’s in the Box
- Standard Horizon GX1800G VHF Radio
- Microphone (noise-canceling)
- Mounting bracket and hardware
- Power cable
- Documentation