Marine Device : MF-HF
Manufacturer : SAILOR
Type / Model : SYSTEM 4000
SAILOR System 4000 MF/HF Radio System
Overview
The SAILOR System 4000 is a professional-grade MF/HF (mobile-frequency / high-frequency) marine radiotelephone system with built-in DSC (Digital Selective Calling) functionalities. It is designed for medium-to-long range voice and data communications, including GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress & Safety System) compliance. It supports versions with output powers of approximately 150 W, 250 W and 500 W PEP.
This system typically includes:
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A Control Unit (CU) or operator display/keyboard.
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A Transceiver Unit (TU) housing the radio-frequency transmit/receive circuitry.
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An Automatic Antenna Tuning Unit (ATU), enabling automatic matching of the antenna system.
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Handset, cables and accessories as required for installation and operation.
Key Features
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Wide frequency coverage: For the 150W variant, the frequency range is 150 kHz up to 30 MHz.
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Built-in DSC: The system includes a DSC watch receiver (2187.5 kHz) and supports distress alerts, automatic acknowledgement and monitoring.
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Pre-programmed ITU channels + user-programmable memory: For example, the 150W model supports 289 ITU HF telephony channels, 54 ITU MF channels (Region I), 40 ITU DSC pairs; plus user-programmable channels and stations.
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Automatic antenna tuning: The ATU matches antenna systems (e.g., 8–18 m whip/wire) and tunes quickly (0.5-8 s typical).
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Robust build: The transceiver unit and ATU designed for marine environment; components like the control unit are compact and suitable for installation in bridge consoles.
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Flexible installation: The control unit may be mounted up to 100 m from the transceiver unit depending on cable specifications.
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GMDSS-ready: Meets requirements for ship’s MF/HF stations, including distress/urgency communications.
Typical Technical Specifications (150 W Model)
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Output power: 150 W PEP ±1.4 dB into 50 Ω at 24 V supply.
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Frequency range: 1605 kHz to 30 MHz for transmit; receiver: 150 kHz to 30 MHz.
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Sensitivity (Receiver): e.g., SSB telephony ~0.7 µV, DSC ~0.3 µV.
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Supply voltage: 21.6-31.2 V DC nominal; optional external AC supply 115/230 V AC with automatic switch-over.
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Operating temperature: approx. -20 °C to +55 °C.
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Dimensions (Transceiver Unit): approx. 390 mm width × 445 mm height × 127 mm depth; Weight ~17.5 kg (for 150W variant)
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Antenna tuning unit: nominal impedance 50 Ω; antenna types 8-18 m whip/wire; fully automatic tuning.
Typical Applications & Benefits
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Suitable for vessels requiring reliable MF/HF communication beyond VHF range: e.g., coastal and ocean-going ships, fishing vessels, workboats where long-range voice/data are required.
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The integrated DSC functionality supports the vessel’s compliance with GMDSS for sea areas A1/A2/A3.
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The modular design allows for installation flexibility: operator console on the bridge, transceiver in the radio room, ATU outdoors, yet fully integrated.
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The wide frequency range allows both medium-range (MF) and long-range (HF) communications, enabling ship-to-ship, ship-to-shore and distress calls over large distances.
Important Notes
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The System 4000 series is reported to be discontinued by SAILOR (150 W, 250 W & 500 W models).
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When sourcing second-hand or reconditioned units, ensure all software, DSC watch-receiver, antenna tuning unit and mounting accessories remain compliant and serviceable.
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Installation must follow manufacturer guidelines, including grounding/earthing, antenna installation, lighting and service clearances for marine environment.
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Because the series is discontinued, spare parts and service may require planning and sourcing from specialized suppliers.






