DSC VHF

[Derek]

Having received a gift of an XM DSC VHF, I'm studying the installation instructions that came with it. I'm concerned about one aspect - at the moment, I don't have a GPS that I can interface with it and would only be using the VHF function mean time. Will the absence of the GPS connection affect the functioning of the VHF? I know I will have to upgrade my VHF licence for DSC in due course, but would like to get this fixed VHF in use in place of my old handheld asap. Any advice?

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[sailorman]

phone XM

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[dralex]

It should work as a stand alone VHF, the only problem being if it alarms repeatedly if there is no GPS input. My DSC works fine without the GPS switched on- it just has a line on the screen saying " No GPS Input" Once you get your GPS, it's fairly easy to rig up the GPS input as it's only 2 wires usually- Data Out and Ground.

<hr width=100% size=1>Life's too short- do it now./forums/images/icons/wink.gif

 

[charles_reed]

Who are

now part of Plastimo tel 01489 778850.

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[sparkie]

Mine works fine without the GPS, just makes a loud noise now and then to tell you that you haven't got one. Stops after a while if you ignore it.

Safe sailing

Sparkie

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[Oldhand]

Without a GPS position input you should still be able to enter a position manually. This would be used if you sent a DSC distress.

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[MarkJohnson]

As old hand says, you can input the position manually.

I have an XM DSC VHF, it makes a hell of a row if it does not get a GPS position after about 10 minutes. To silence it, just press the enter button, or put in a position.



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[Mike_Martin]

As has been mentioned it will function OK without the GPS. However, worth remembering that it does reduce it's usefulness in an Emergency situation, as you would need to manually input your position before a standard alert could be made.

In real terms this means that it would transmit the fact that "vessel MMSI whatever is in difficulty" but no position unless you've put it in.

My advice would be to take manual to boat and practice until you are comfortable inputting the pos. Or pick up a cheap GPS receiver and install it as well.

Mike

<hr width=100% size=1>Team Executive,
Maritime & Aeronautical Team, Ofcom

 

[Soong]

For sure, buy a cheap GPS and connect it.

How things have moved on! Not so long ago GPS was considered witchcraft and now you really do need one to comply with the new distress network.

The Plastimo (Navman) Tracker will work well and are easy to set up, not to mention bargain price. Try JGTech.co.uk.

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