anthonype Posted March 13, 2015 Share Posted March 13, 2015 Hi guys, I just recently upgraded my boat, and now that I want to start heading out to the Sydney FADs I feel I should also upgrade my marine radio. The boat currently has a 27meg unit and an Epirb, though I'm told by some that the 27meg radio is no good out at the FADs... Some 10kms plus. Is this actually true? If so, and VHF is the go, will handheld units of 5W power do the trick? I could also install a permanent unit and then connect to my chart plotter for the DSC... But to save the trouble of installing, more cables, antennas and holes, is handheld the answer. Anyone have experience with the Lowrance Link 2, I was also looking at a Uniden MHS127... Big difference between the 2 I know. Last thought, I suppose could also connect an external antenna to the handheld... But really is it worth it? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest no one Posted March 13, 2015 Share Posted March 13, 2015 My 27meg sucks! Get a vhf, you could buy a proper unit for $200 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
anthonype Posted March 13, 2015 Author Share Posted March 13, 2015 Yeah dollar wise the handheld probably wouldn save me much, if not the same. But maybe more convenient and obviously portable. They're appealing, but only if the 'reach' for calls. If not, then no good to me. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NaClH2OK9 Posted March 13, 2015 Share Posted March 13, 2015 I think you'll get about 5 miles on a hand held. So not enough for the fads. The length of the aerial has as much effect or more than the power. So yes you could fit an external antenna but at that point why not just connect 2 extra wires? Personally I would not trust my life to a hand held off shore though I do see they have advantages like being able to take with you if your boat goes down. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
anthonype Posted March 13, 2015 Author Share Posted March 13, 2015 Thanks guys. Yep, I'm now thinking a proper unit is the go. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
batfishing Posted March 13, 2015 Share Posted March 13, 2015 The other issue with 27Mhz, is a thread on here late last year, whereby Marine Rescue will stop monitoring 27Mhz this year. If you would like to give us a call at roadrunner on Monday, happy to discuss a VHF unit with you. 9607 5774. Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
reese Posted March 13, 2015 Share Posted March 13, 2015 i dont want to hijack your thread, but i am looking at replacing my 27mhz radio for a vhf, i am in same position, will be going no further then fads.. what should i bee looking at when purchasing a vhf for my boat.? any tips or smal check list would be fantastic. thanks Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
NaClH2OK9 Posted March 13, 2015 Share Posted March 13, 2015 Reese. If your right at the beginning of understanding vhf YouTube the following 'Vhf radio buyer's guide' It's a multi part video. It's a bit Americanised but covers off the basics ( though I think thier handheld distance is rubbish) It will give you the basics. You can then consider which features add value to your circumstances. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
reese Posted March 13, 2015 Share Posted March 13, 2015 thank you, thats a good start - cheers Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
anthonype Posted March 14, 2015 Author Share Posted March 14, 2015 Wish the handheld would reach from the fads... Just can't risk being out there only not to get reception. Had consider connecting to an internal aerial, though then again the handheld are only 5w... So line of site or not, not sure power wise they're enough. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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