Garmin Signal VHF Radios Add Touchscreen Control and Integrated AIS

Touchscreen VHF shrinks the helm footprint

Garmin’s Signal VHF 400 and VHF 220 radios use a 3.5-inch colour touchscreen with edge-to-edge glass in a compact fixed-mount design. The aim is to give bridge and helm designers a cleaner installation while retaining direct access to calling, monitoring and safety functions.

The VHF 400 adds an integrated Class B AIS transponder, while the VHF 220 provides AIS reception. Both models are intended to combine radio communication with information already moving through a yacht’s wider navigation network.

Noise management targets real operating conditions

Adaptive noise cancellation and automated squelch are designed to reduce background sound from engines, wind and waves during transmission and reception. The radios can also record up to three minutes of received audio and monitor multiple channels, giving crew a way to replay traffic that may have been missed.

An included fist microphone has its own loud speaker and background-noise processing, helping communication remain intelligible when the main bridge environment is busy. Digital Selective Calling remains available for distress and direct vessel-to-vessel communication.

Secondary stations extend control around the yacht

Garmin’s Signal RM 100 remote station can operate a compatible VHF 400 or VHF 220 from another helm, flybridge or working position through the Garmin Marine Network. Intercom capability also allows communication between stations, which is useful on vessels with separated bridge and exterior control points.

The radios integrate with Garmin chartplotters over NMEA 2000, Garmin Marine Network and BlueNet, while built-in Wi-Fi supports configuration and software updates through ActiveCaptain. The VHF 400 also supports 12- and 24-volt electrical systems, making it suitable for a wider range of yacht installations.