Standard Horizon, VLH-3000 Loud Hailer

The Standard Horizon VLH-3000 (and VLH-3000A) is a dual-zone, 25-watt (or 30-watt peak) marine loud hailer designed for effective communication and signaling on vessels. It offers three primary modes: Hail/Listen-Back (PA system) for broadcasting messages and listening for replies, Intercom for two-way communication with optional onboard stations, and Automatic Signaling with pre-programmed fog horns (conforming to USCG rules), bells, whistles, horns, and sirens. Featuring a noise-canceling microphone and an adjustable backlit display, it’s a versatile, waterproof solution for safety and operational communication on board.

Technical Specification

General Features:

Functions: Hail/Listen-Back (PA mode), Intercom, Automatic Signaling (Fog Horns, Bells, Whistles, Horn, Siren).
Zones: Dual zone output (Forward, Aft, or both simultaneously).
Microphone: Noise-canceling microphone with dedicated buttons for Intercom (IC1, IC2) and PA.
Display: Backlit display and buttons with adjustable backlight for night use.
Controls: Easy push-button control layout.
Mounting: Bracket mount (included) or optional flush mount (with MMB-84 kit).

Audio Output & Power:

PA Output Power: 25 Watts x 2 Channels (at 4 ohm, 10% distortion). Often advertised as “30W PA output” per channel, but the specified output is 25W at 10% distortion.
Intercom Output Power: 4 Watts x 2 Channels (at 4 ohm, 10% distortion).
External Speaker Output: 4 Watts (at 4 ohm, 10% distortion).
Internal Speaker Output: 2.0 Watts (at 8 ohm, 10% distortion).
Speaker Impedance (recommended): 4 Ohms for PA horn and external speakers, 8 Ohms for internal speaker.

Fog Horns & Signals:

Fog Horn Frequencies: Adjustable from 150 – 850 Hz (in 50 Hz multiples).
Pre-programmed Fog Signals: Typically 4 or 6 specific foghorn signals (e.g., Underway, Stop, Sail, Tow, Anchor, Aground) conforming to USCG Navigational Rules.
Other Signals: Bells, Whistles, Horn, Siren.

Connectivity:

Intercom Stations: Capable of connecting to up to two optional intercom stations (e.g., MLS-300i, MLS-410LH), allowing two-way communication between the bridge and other parts of the vessel.
External Speaker Compatibility: Compatible with Standard Horizon PA horns (e.g., 220SW, 240SW) and external speakers (e.g., MLS-300, MLS-310).
Listen-Back Input Level: 2mV.
AF Output (Auxiliary Audio Output): Can route audio from an external source (e.g., CD player, radio) through the intercom speakers and external horns.

Electrical Specifications:

Power Supply: 13.8 VDC ± 20%
Maximum Current Drain: 8 Amps (MAX) at PA x 2CH max AF output (4 ohms).
Idle Current: Approximately 300 mA.

Physical & Environmental:

Dimensions (H x W x D): Approximately 110 mm x 180 mm x 140 mm (4.3″ H x 7.1″ W x 5.5″ D).
Flush-Mount Dimensions: Approximately 92 mm x 165 mm x 115 mm (3.6″ H x 6.5″ W x 4.5″ D).
Weight: Approximately 1.35 Kg (2.97 lbs).
Water Integrity: IPX7 (front panel submersible to 1 meter for 30 minutes).
Operating Temperature Range: -20°C to +55°C (-4°F to +131°F) or -20°C to +60°C (-4°F to +140°F) depending on exact revision.
Storage Temperature Range: -30°C to +70°C (-22°F to +158°F).