Icom MA-510TR Class B AIS Transponder with GPS & Display
$1,390.00 Inc GST
Icom MA-510TR Class B AIS Transponder – see AIS-equipped vessels around you and transmit your vessel’s AIS information for improved marine awareness.
- Bright 4.3-inch colour TFT display with target lists
- CPA/TCPA collision alerts, MOB and waypoint navigation
- GPS antenna supplied; NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183
- 2W Class B AIS, IPX7 protection and 12/24V operation
Ideal for recreational boats, charter vessels and commercial marine operations. Contact our team for an AIS installation quote.
Product enquiry — need a formal quote, availability, technical help or an alternative? Send us your details below.
Icom MA-510TR Class B AIS Transponder – See and Be Seen on the Water
The Icom MA-510TR Class B AIS transponder helps you keep track of AIS-equipped vessels around your boat. It shows nearby vessel information on a clear 4.3-inch colour screen and broadcasts your boat’s own AIS position and details to other compatible receivers.
It’s a useful addition for busy waterways, coastal trips, fishing boats and commercial marine operations. The MA-510TR is not a voice radio. Instead, it works alongside a marine VHF radio and other navigation equipment to give you a better picture of surrounding vessel traffic.
What Is AIS and Why Is It Useful?
AIS stands for Automatic Identification System. Boats and ships fitted with operating AIS equipment exchange information such as vessel name or identity, position, direction and speed. The MA-510TR receives this data so you can see participating vessels on its screen. As a Class B transponder, it also broadcasts your own vessel’s AIS information when properly configured and transmitting.
Think of it as an extra way to know what’s happening around your boat. It can help you spot AIS-equipped ships, identify targets and check whether another vessel may come close to your route. However, it cannot detect every boat and does not replace keeping a lookout, safe navigation or radar.
Key Features Explained Simply
- Transmits and receives AIS: You can monitor AIS-equipped vessels while allowing compatible receivers to see your vessel’s broadcast information.
- 4.3-inch colour screen: See vessels on a simple plotter display with day and night viewing options.
- Collision alerts: Audible and on-screen alerts warn when a detected target meets your chosen closest-approach settings.
- Easy vessel lists: Switch between nearby targets, potential risks and saved ‘friend’ vessels.
- Simple navigation: Set a destination or save up to 100 waypoints, such as fishing spots or favourite locations.
- Man Overboard (MOB) function: Quickly mark the boat’s position to help navigate back towards it.
- GPS antenna supplied: Includes a GPS antenna with approximately 10 metres of cable to help the unit obtain position data.
- Connects to other marine equipment: NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 support integration with compatible chartplotters, radar and marine radios.
- 12V or 24V operation: Suitable for a range of vessel electrical systems.
- IPX7 waterproof rating: Designed for marine use when correctly installed; connectors need appropriate protection.
Where Can You Use the MA-510TR?
Recreational boating: Keep an eye on AIS-equipped vessels when crossing shipping lanes or travelling in busy coastal waters.
Fishing boats: See relevant vessel traffic and save waypoints for commonly used locations.
Charter boats: Add a dedicated screen for AIS targets and collision-awareness information at the helm.
Commercial vessels and workboats: Share AIS data with compatible onboard equipment for improved awareness of nearby marine traffic.
Can It Work with Your Existing Marine VHF Radio?
Yes, the MA-510TR supports common marine data connections including NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183. Compatible equipment can share AIS and related information through the correct network and cabling.
For example, the Icom IC-M430E VHF marine radio provides voice communication, while the MA-510TR shows AIS vessel information. When correctly connected, compatible Icom radios can place an individual DSC call to a selected AIS target. Always confirm the connection method and model compatibility before installation.
Need a complete setup? Browse our marine communication equipment, or ask our team to advise on AIS/VHF antennas, installation, cabling and device compatibility.
Icom MA-510TR Technical Specifications
| Product type | Class B AIS transponder (transmit and receive) |
|---|---|
| Display | 4.3-inch colour TFT LCD |
| AIS transmit power | 2W |
| Operating frequencies | 161.500–162.025 MHz |
| GPS | Built-in GPS receiver with supplied external GPS antenna |
| Connections | NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183 and USB output |
| Power supply | 12V / 24V DC nominal |
| Waterproof rating | IPX7 (excluding connectors) |
| Size | 166.2 × 110.2 × 92.5 mm (W × H × D) |
| Weight | Approximately 700 g (main unit) |
What’s Included in the Box?
- MA-510TR Class B AIS transponder
- GPS antenna with approximately 10m cable
- DC power cable
- Mounting bracket kit
- Accessory connector
An appropriate AIS/VHF antenna and other connection cables may be needed for your vessel. These are not listed as standard supplied accessories. Correct MMSI and vessel information must be configured before normal AIS transmission.
Download the Icom MA-510TR Brochure
For more technical details, screen views and installation information, download the official Icom MA-510TR brochure (PDF).
You can also view the MA-510TR on Icom Australia’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the MA-510TR show every vessel on the water?
No. It shows AIS-equipped vessels and other AIS targets it can receive. Small boats without AIS, or vessels whose signals cannot be received, may not appear. Always maintain a proper lookout.
Does the MA-510TR need mobile data or Wi-Fi?
No. AIS uses dedicated marine radio frequencies. It does not need a mobile data plan to receive or transmit AIS information, but it does need the correct antennas and installation.
Can I talk to another boat using the MA-510TR?
Not by itself. It is an AIS data device, not a microphone-equipped marine voice radio. Use a separate marine VHF radio such as the Icom IC-M430E for voice calls.
Does it come with a GPS antenna?
Yes. A GPS antenna and approximately 10m cable are supplied. An additional suitable AIS antenna and installation accessories may be required.
Can it connect to a chartplotter?
Yes, provided the chartplotter supports the MA-510TR’s NMEA 2000 or NMEA 0183 interface and is connected and configured correctly.
Get Expert AIS and Marine Radio Advice
Radio Industries helps Australian boat owners and businesses choose practical communication solutions, including AIS transponders, marine radios and compatible accessories. We’ll help you work out what equipment fits your vessel and how the devices work together. Contact our communication specialists for advice or a quote.
Additional information
| Manufacturer | Icom |
|---|---|
| Product Type | AIS Transponder |
| Frequency Band | VHF Marine |
| Power (W) | 2W |
| IP Rating | IPX7 |
| GPS | Yes |
| Screen | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| AIS Class | Class B |
| Display Size | 4.3 inches |
| AIS Frequency Range | 161.500–162.025 MHz |
| NMEA Connectivity | NMEA 2000, NMEA 0183 |
| Supply Voltage | 12V DC, 24V DC |
Find the right earpiece, headset or microphone
Accessories connect to two-way radios with different plug types. Check your radio’s connector before ordering, or call us on 1300 266 682 and we’ll confirm compatibility for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Far Can Two-Way Radios Reach?
Two-way radios operate using line-of-sight communication, which means buildings, hills, steel structures and other obstacles can affect range. Actual distance depends on the environment, radio power, antenna type and system setup.
Typical examples:
- Small offices or retail: hundreds of metres
- Warehouses and construction sites: 1–3 km
- Open outdoor areas: several kilometres
- Repeaters or Push-to-Talk over Cellular systems: Australia-wide coverage
If coverage is critical, Radio Industries can help design the right communication solution.
What Channels Can I Use?
In Australia, radios can operate on:
- UHF CB channels (1–80) – public shared channels available for general use
- Private licensed frequencies – dedicated channels licensed through ACMA for business use
- Digital radio systems – for improved audio and advanced features
- Push-to-Talk over Cellular (PoC) – communication over mobile networks and Wi-Fi
The right option depends on your application and operating environment.
Which Radio Is Best?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best radio depends on:
- Your industry
- Required coverage area
- Team size
- Indoor or outdoor use
- Safety requirements
- Noise levels
- Whether you require UHF CB, licensed channels or nationwide communication
A warehouse team may need digital radios, while transport fleets may benefit from Push-to-Talk over Cellular systems.
Do I Need A Private Frequency?
Not always. UHF CB channels are suitable for many general communication applications.
However, private frequencies are recommended where:
- Communication is safety critical
- Teams operate around cranes or major construction projects
- Privacy is important
- Multiple users share the same location
- Interference must be minimised
Dedicated channels help improve reliability and reduce unwanted outside traffic.
What Is The Difference Between a Two-Way Radio, Walkie Talkie and Handy Talkie?
They generally refer to the same type of device.
In professional environments, Two-Way Radio is the preferred industry term. “Walkie Talkie” and “Handy Talkie” are commonly used for recreational or consumer products.
What Is The Difference Between Analogue and Digital Radios?
Analogue radios use traditional radio technology and are often suitable for basic communication requirements.
Digital radios provide:
- Clearer audio quality
- Better noise reduction
- Longer battery life
- Improved coverage performance
- Advanced features such as private calling and GPS
Digital systems are commonly used by businesses requiring higher performance and reliability.
What Is Push-to-Talk Over Cellular (PoC)?
Push-to-Talk over Cellular works like a two-way radio but uses 4G, 5G and Wi-Fi networks instead of traditional radio signals.
Benefits include:
- Australia-wide coverage
- GPS tracking
- Group communication
- No repeater infrastructure required
- Easy expansion across multiple locations
This solution is ideal for transport, security, events and nationwide operations.
Can Two-Way Radios Work Australia-Wide?
Traditional radios have distance limitations unless repeaters are used.
For nationwide communication, many businesses choose Push-to-Talk over Cellular systems, which operate across mobile networks and Wi-Fi.
Can Different Brands Of Radios Communicate Together?
Sometimes.
Compatibility depends on:
- Frequency settings
- Channel programming
- Analogue or digital mode
- Signalling protocols (IDAS, DMR, NXDN, TETRA, P25)
- System configuration (Capacity Plus, Capacity Max, P25)
Even radios from different manufacturers may communicate if correctly programmed.
Do Radios Need Programming Before Use?
Many professional radios require setup before deployment.
Programming may include:
- Channel configuration
- Private frequencies
- User groups
- Emergency functions
- Scan lists
- Button customisation
Radio Industries can pre-program and configure systems before dispatch.
Can I Use Headsets With Two-Way Radios?
Yes. Many industries use headsets and accessories to improve communication and safety.
Popular options include:
- Noise-cancelling headsets
- Hearing protection communication headsets
- Earpieces
- Remote speaker microphones
- Push-to-talk accessories
These are commonly used in construction, security, industrial sites and events.
Are Two-Way Radios Waterproof?
This depends on the model.
Many commercial radios include protection ratings such as:
- IP54 – Protected against limited dust ingress and resistant to water splashes from any direction. Suitable for indoor use, retail, warehouses and light outdoor environments.
- IP67 – Fully protected against dust and can withstand temporary immersion in water up to 1 metre for up to 30 minutes. Commonly used on construction sites, security operations and harsh environments.
- IP68 – Fully dustproof with enhanced water protection beyond IP67 standards. Exact depth and duration vary by manufacturer, but these radios are designed for more demanding environments with heavy dust, rain and exposure to water.
The right rating depends on your work environment.
Can Radios Be Used On Construction Sites?
Yes. Two-way radios are widely used across construction projects for coordination, safety and productivity.
Many sites use:
- Rugged digital radios
- Hearing protection headsets
- Vehicle-mounted radios
- Dedicated licensed frequencies
Radio Industries can recommend systems suited to site conditions and OH&S requirements.
Do You Offer Repairs And Ongoing Support?
Yes.
Radio Industries provides:
✔ Repairs and servicing
✔ Programming and setup
✔ Genuine parts and accessories
✔ System upgrades
✔ Technical support
✔ Australia-wide assistance
We support customers long after the initial purchase.
Still Not Sure Which Communication Solution You Need?
Every site and business is different. Speak with Radio Industries for expert advice on choosing the right radio communication system for your team.
Why Radio Industries? Two-way radio specialists since 1985, with Australia-wide supply, programming and support. About us → · Working in a hazardous area? Intrinsically safe radios →