Ariel splitter

[Clyde_Wanderer]

I am fitting a dsc vhf but am keeping the present vhf as well.
Can I get some type of changeover switch to direct the single antenna towards either radio.
I will also need a cable splitter.
What should I be looking for, and from where?
TIA, C_W.

 

[hightech]

Re: Aerial splitter

Not advised, get a second aerial, even if you put it on the pushpit.

 

[Salty John]

If you only intend to use one radio at a time you can use an aerial switch, not a splitter. The type with SO239 sockets on input and output sides is probably best - try Moonraker, type C201.
I don't recommend splitters on this application and, in any case, they cost more than a good antenna.

 

[johnalison]

Or if it's for emergencies, an emergency aerial which could be a useful back-up in case of mast failure.

 

[whipper_snapper]

You need something like this:

from here

and something like this:

from here

 

[Clyde_Wanderer]

Thanks guys, I actually had a changeover switch in mind, as I would only be using the non dsc unit in the event of a failure in the dsc unit which is brand new, and not as good a make as my Icom.
I do already have a whip antenna on the pushpit, which is not connected up, but was for emergencies such as the one mentioned, but on second thoughts maybe I would be better connecting it up to the non dsc Icom rather than using a changeover switch, that way if I did get demasted, it would be one less job to do.
Thanks WS for the links.
Cheers, C_W.

 

[Salty John]

Your VHF range will be somewhat limited with the pushpit antenna. For an AIS the pushpit is OK because the Tx antenna on a ship is located high up.
If you are dismasted then, of course, it's better than nothing and you are probably trying to communicate with powerful coastguard station.
Range is approx 1.23 times the root of the combined height of the tx and rx antennas in feet, answer in miles.

 

[Slowtack]

Thinking of doing same thing but am wondering if two vhf antennae are masthead mounted, side by side but using brackets so they are about 300mm apart, will cause any interference effect even though only one will be in use at any time?