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Old 03-11-2011, 13:16   #31
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

Interestingly, I was reading opinions of radar alarms / enhancers owners where some claim the newer types of radars do not activate some of the (generic: CARD, Merveille, SeaMe, etc..) toys. If confirmed, this would be sad news to all those who want to buy some safety on the budget.

It looks like while we are gaining on AIS we might be loosing on radar alarms.

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Old 11-11-2011, 13:43   #32
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

I found this info on Panbo today.

New and very good looking AIS from Vesper:

Saltwater Public Relations, for the very latest in marine news.

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Old 08-12-2012, 19:46   #33
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

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Originally Posted by Alecadi View Post
Thanks...
That would be one more reason for swearing when at the helm....

True, however, at least the display and instructions are easy - if you read along. I noticed the same bothersome glitch too. On the plus, I have never had to open the book since we installed it. In structions are in english in full words and sentences - no code.
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Old 18-04-2013, 10:47   #34
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

Based on Jeff piping up and being willing to listen from Vesper, I placed one on order today.

Customer Service beyond just a call center. I don't know what you make on each unit, but you earned this one. Thanks /Stiu
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Old 18-04-2013, 12:07   #35
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

Thanks Stu and I hope you enjoy your new WatchMate 850.

After re-reading some of the posts in this thread I thought an update might be useful...

The 850 now has DSC calling if you connect it to a compatible VHF radio (all the same ones as the ICOM). This allows you to view a target and press the "CALL" button. It will initiate a DSC call via the radio. When the other vessel acknowledges the call, both radios automatically switch to the selected working channel.

With Evans input on the button placement in the setup menus, we re-evaluated all the various options and indeed found a few where the OK/CANCEL buttons weren't consistent. That was changed some time ago, so if anyone notices something like that still please let me know.
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Old 18-04-2013, 12:27   #36
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

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Th
With Evans input on the button placement in the setup menus, we re-evaluated all the various options and indeed found a few where the OK/CANCEL buttons weren't consistent. That was changed some time ago, so if anyone notices something like that still please let me know.
Is there a firmware update for the button change on the watchmate 850?

Are you shipping the "Vision"? If so, what's the difference in amp draw vs the 850?

The ability to make a dsc call to a target by pushing a button (and not having to put in the mmsi number) is neat, but I have to say my success at calling targets by name (voice call on 13 or 16) is much better than by DSC.
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Old 18-04-2013, 12:49   #37
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Is there a firmware update for the button change on the watchmate 850?

Are you shipping the "Vision"? If so, what's the difference in amp draw vs the 850?
Yes, just request the latest firmware for your unit at http://www.vespermarine.com/firmware-upgrades/

And yes.. WatchMate Vision is available. It uses about 6W vs. the 850 at 3W.
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Old 18-04-2013, 17:16   #38
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

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Yes, just request the latest firmware for your unit at Vesper Marine - AIS Transponder and AIS WatchMate Firmware Upgrades

And yes.. WatchMate Vision is available. It uses about 6W vs. the 850 at 3W.
Thanks. The firmware is all updated.

Is the 6w running wifi, or with wifi off?

I have an ipad plotter this year and am thinking about getting instrument data and AIS to it. But I am very stingy with my amps.
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Old 19-04-2013, 16:59   #39
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

Yes, 6W is with the WiFi turned on and the display at maximum brightness. So often it is much less. Same for 850 spec... 3W with display on max brightness and not using the auto-powersave feature.
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Old 19-04-2013, 19:11   #40
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

Another option Evans for lower power consumption is an XB-8000. It will take all your 0183 instruments and put them on your iPad along with GPS & AIS. It consumes about 3W. But you would give up the 850's dedicated display and other advantages.
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Old 19-04-2013, 20:00   #41
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

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Originally Posted by jeffrobbins View Post
The 850 now has DSC calling if you connect it to a compatible VHF radio (all the same ones as the ICOM).
Jeff

Which radios are compatible for DSC direct calling?

Rolf
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Old 19-04-2013, 21:43   #42
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Re: AIS: Icom MA 530 TR or Watchmate 850 from Vesper

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Which radios are compatible for DSC direct calling?
We've tested it with Icom radios that work with the MA500 transponder and are working with other radio manufacturers to help them add support into their radios.
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