Communications/GPS

[willisballs]

can anyone recommend whether to purchase a handheld VHF or a base mounted unit for communication...and if so, what are the features I need on selecting a unit. Also when considering a GPS system, what should i be looking for?... It is an older boat, and dont plan on going out too far in the ocean, maybe 5 miles, what would be a good combination or setup to have...? THanks

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Communications/GPS

Hi willisballs,<br /><br />Arial hieght is definetly an issue when calculating optimum range (both transmitting & recieving arials) but I can't remember the formula. The formula was posted a while back, maybe a search will find it. Obviously a handheld will be restricted in this regard.<br /><br />G.P.S. is a can of worms, sooo many to chose from. I suggest you start with how many dollars you can throw at it.<br /><br />I have a navman 5100i and love it but it doesn't seem to be a popular brand in the northern hemisphere.<br /><br />Good luck.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[JB]

Re: Communications/GPS

Moving to Electronics.

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Communications/GPS

willisballs, here that thread, should answer your questions.<br /><br />Aldo<br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=27;t=000553#000001

 

[POINTER94]

Re: Communications/GPS

Aldo, I couldn't get that link to hook up. Maybe it is just me. <br /><br />My advise, the range on a hand held is no further than a good flashlight. Look for a base unit. If cash is a concern, E-bay.. VHF first.<br /><br />GPS: I would use a hand held unit if you need one. They are small accurate and portable. Increased features=$$$$$$$ What you are trying to use it for will dictate your purchasing direction.<br /><br />I hope this helps.

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Communications/GPS

Pointer, <br /><br />Sorry, i've been having a few minor problems since the upgrade to this site.<br /><br />The thread was started 31st Jan by Don McAlpine (30576), titled - 'Now, on to Marine band radios'. In 'Electronic & Trolling motors'.<br /><br />ThomWV gives a very detailed explaination about radio range etc.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[Boatist]

Re: Communications/GPS

Willisballs<br />For a VHF radio I would start with a name brand Fixed mount radio. When you need it for yourself or to help someone else it will be there. Hand helds are good for a second radio or one to put in a survival pack incase the boat sinks. Problems with hand helds is Low power, a minus 3 db antenna, dead batteries, so very short range and unrelibable.<br /><br />I like ICOM VHF radios best as they have been rated best for years by many test. Still almost all VHF radios good quality today. One thing I have found with many hand helds and also smaller Fixed mount radios is many do not have enough audio power to be herd over engine, wind noise out on the water. One with a larger speaker seam eaiser to here and understand over the noises on a boat.<br /><br />If you really want a good rig spend some money on a good antenna. I really like Shakespeare's Galaxy 5225. It will do more for range and reliability than anything you can do to the radio.<br />I like a radio that scans channels and has easy to use controls. You are required to monitor Channel 16 when the radio is not in use. You can do this with dual watch or scan the channels. For me I like hereing other fisherman and boats but understand the need to here MAYDAY on channel 16.<br /><br />GPS It is really hard to pick and you will be better off in the long run if you give your self at least one month to check brand and features you want. Lots of difference between how different brands operate to set way points or guide you to your location. Also how detailed the Electronic charts are for your area.

 

[scott i]

Re: Communications/GPS

Standard Horizon is offering rebates on their fixed mount and portable VHFs. Solid products, great customer service and warranty.<br /><br />Portables<br />HX260S -$30<br />HX350S -$25<br />HX460S -$50<br />HX470S -$50<br /><br />Fixed Mount<br />Eclipse+ - $20<br />Quest -$20<br />Intrepid+ -$40<br />Spectrum+ -$40