Question about connecting my VHF to my GPS

[mike16498]

Hi Sailors:
I have a Standard Horizon Intrepid model GX1270S VHF radio and a Garmin GSMap 492 and I am going to wire them so that in the event of a Distress call, it will not only pinpoint my call for help but it will pinpoint my latitude and logitude. I have the wiring diagrams and color identification of the wires in the both harnesses, so hookup is not the problem.
My question is this: How can I tell if the hookup is functioning properly? Is there a way to test it?

Thanks in advance for any help with this question.

Mike

 

[petersea]

not sure about that particular model but mine will display the lat and Lon read out so you know the radio and gps are connected. Leap of faith that it will work if actually tested ?? not sure but there must be some info in manual or manufacturers tech support may be able to help..

 

[Ken Palmer]

First, you MUST have an MMSI number entered on your VHF radio. You should then see the coordinates on your VHF window. Also, if you have the MMSI number of a friend, you can put it into your address section and give him a "digital" call. Your lat-long will display on his VHF radio. He also has the feature of calling you "digitally" and requesting your coordinates without having you even answer him by voice. Neat!

 

[BLIGHT]

Visual Position

Another connection that you can try is to connect your NEMA outputs from your VHF to the NEMA inputs on your GPS. If the NEAM gods are in alignment you will see the GPS position of the sending vessel. :dance:

At least it works that way with my setup.

Bob