I am mounting a second VHF on the boat and am interested in making use of the mast mounted existing antenna as the primary antenna for either radio. (I will have a back up on board just in case). I know that they have A/B switch boxes that will allow for this but I am curious to know if there is any reason why I can't just use a T connection to wire both radios to the one antenna - without the switch. Anyone out there with thoughts?
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don't
Roger, if you use a T, the wattage from the transmitting radio will fry the other radio. Something you might want to think about is what happens when you get dismasted. My second radio uses a 12' antenna mounted on the pushpit and braced off the arch, which means that if I lose the big stick I can still call for help. I sacrifice a little range by not using a masthead mount, but do so willingly in order to gain a completely redundant system.
Roger, if you use a T, the wattage from the transmitting radio will fry the other radio. Something you might want to think about is what happens when you get dismasted. My second radio uses a 12' antenna mounted on the pushpit and braced off the arch, which means that if I lose the big stick I can still call for help. I sacrifice a little range by not using a masthead mount, but do so willingly in order to gain a completely redundant system.
Why two radios?
Roger: Why do you want two radios? Is one a backup? If it is not why don't you think about a unit with a RAM Mic. One radio with two stations and a single antenna!
Roger: Why do you want two radios? Is one a backup? If it is not why don't you think about a unit with a RAM Mic. One radio with two stations and a single antenna!
How about a good Hand Held?
Instead of a 2nd installed 12volt radio. The hand held will work if you lose your 12volt power your second radio will not. I get pretty good range with the hand held, if I need more range I'll go below and use the 25watt built in.
Instead of a 2nd installed 12volt radio. The hand held will work if you lose your 12volt power your second radio will not. I get pretty good range with the hand held, if I need more range I'll go below and use the 25watt built in.
Thanks!
Thanks for all the info. The frying of the second radio was my main concern - going with a seperate antenna makes the most sense. I do have a good hand held, but want the added range of the mounted unit. I looked at the RAM Mic but couldn't justify spending $99 for one, when for an additional $45 I was able to pick up a new Raytheon unit to mount in the cockpit.
Thanks for all the info. The frying of the second radio was my main concern - going with a seperate antenna makes the most sense. I do have a good hand held, but want the added range of the mounted unit. I looked at the RAM Mic but couldn't justify spending $99 for one, when for an additional $45 I was able to pick up a new Raytheon unit to mount in the cockpit.
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