HITCH n HIKE > GEAR TESTS > ENTEL HT446 SUBMERSIBLE PMR RADIO


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What is it?
The HT446 is based upon Entel's proven marine VHF and is the first PMR446 licence free radio to be dubbed "submersible". It can be used in the harshest weather without any additional protection. Cheaper radios can be put into waterproof bags but these usually make them harder to use and muffle the audio. The longer whip antenna, clear audio and user adjustable squelch maximise performance.

What's in the box?
A high quality, professional grade waterproof radio with long whip antenna, a lithium-ion battery providing a full 24 hour duty cycle, a "smart" charging cradle that can be free standing or wall mounted, a mains power supply unit, 12V lead with cigarette lighter plug and a belt clip.

What are they like compared to other cheaper alternatives?
The build quality is excellent and they have a definite professional feel. The audio is strong, clear and doesn't distort when turned up. The ability to use them as they are in wet conditions, instead of using waterproof bags, is a real benefit.

Output Power: 0.5W. No more powerful than any other PMR446 radio but the longer whip antenna, very high quality audio and the user adjustable squelch all help to maximise performance.
Channels: 8, with 38 CTCSS and 45 DCS codes resulting in a 1:664 chance of selecting the same settings as someone else, virtually eliminating the chance of interference from other groups.
Waterproof to IPX7: Tested to 1m depth for up to 30 minutes. Using this radio in wet weather will not be a problem.

Verdict:
The HT446 is one of the most expensive licence free PMR radios available, but it's arguably the best. For anyone wanting reliable communication in all weathers it's the tool for the job.

(Tested from April 2006)

The Entel HT446 Submersible PMR446 licence free tranceiver.
Photo: Entel
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Steve Birch between Broadford and Pabbay, Isle of Skye. The Entel HT446's were used to keep in touch with the shore, standing up to continual spray and the occasional submersion. The audio was clear and easy to hear despite the noise from high wind and surf.
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Steve Birch and Shaun on Bruach na Frithe, Cuillin Ridge, Isle of Skye. The Bastier Tooth and Sgurr na Gillean behind. The Entel's provided easy clear communication to Glen Brittle.
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Clipped to the back of the seat on the R.I.B, the Entel HT446 was an ideal alternative to using Marine VHF for all casual communication. Rain and spray were not an issue.
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