Connecting GPS to DSC VHF - Options

[Mike G.]

There is another thread similar to this, but I don't want to hijack it with my question:

While acting like a contortionist trying to connect the DSC feature to my Garmin 182C from my new Raymarine 55 VHS I had an "Ah ha" moment.

I realized that it may be easier to hard wire my seldom used Garmin 76C at the nav station and connect right there. Mounting the 76C at the nav station is probably a good idea anyway.

Garmin tech support has provided directions to connect either unit.
Is there any benefit or drawback to wiring one unit over the other?

Thanks,

Mike

 

[SEMIJim]

Well... yeah. The 76C is a portable unit, right? Why tie-down a portable unit to a fixed installation, and run two GPS', just to save the effort of routing some wire?

Jim

 

[bria46]

I have a Garmin 535 mounted in my cabin and a Garmin 76C that I use on deck. No interconnection.

 

[JVB]

I have a cheap (under $100 new) Lowrance portable to supply latitude and longitude to my radio and a separate Garmin 376C for navigation. A little redundancy is a good thing.

 

[Eric M]

Don't forget to register for your MMSI number at:

http://www.boatus.com/MMSI/

Then get it programed into your VHF.

Finally, check your VHF every time you go out to ensure it is getting a "good" signal from the GPS. On our ICOM it displays "GPS" right next to the current channel indicating it is recieving a good GPS signal.