Navtex???

[wasnotwas]

Was looking to fit a Navtex unit in my Merry Fisher 925 was wondering could you tell me what is the best model to go for and any pros and cons of these units, thanks in advance....

 

[bobgoode]

But the NASA clipper model....does everything that it needs to do and won't cost an arm and leg.

 

[Gwylan]

NASA Navtex is good value and does everything you need

 

[asteven221]

NASA Clipper gets my vote too!

 

[oceanfroggie]

Navtex? Not as outdated as telex, but surely as outdated as fax! Do many folk still use this old technology as a source of weather information? The quality of weather data available from so many other sources makes navtex look like black and white television with valves, or at least for coastal and offshore leisure use.

 

[Philiz]

Navtex? Not as outdated as telex, but surely as outdated as fax! Do many folk still use this old technology as a source of weather information? The quality of weather data available from so many other sources makes navtex look like black and white television with valves, or at least for coastal and offshore leisure use.

What are the alternatives?

 

[Gwylan]

NAVTEX

Navtex? Not as outdated as telex, but surely as outdated as fax! Do many folk still use this old technology as a source of weather information? The quality of weather data available from so many other sources makes navtex look like black and white television with valves, or at least for coastal and offshore leisure use.

Do tell what these alternatives are, that work offshore?

 

[RAI]

I use a Moerer WIB2D, tiny and very portable, but the ferrite rod antenna inside is directional. I also have an old NASA CRT Navtex which works only on one frequency and has relatively short range. Navtex is always a standby when out of range of other sources. Plus it does a lot more with other navigational warnings and range firing times.

 

[DavidJ]

Do tell what these alternatives are, that work offshore?

I'm a fan of NAVTEX (although I wish the signal was stronger for more reliable inside marina use) There are alternatives, although a bit messy, and that's to use a SSB (Single Side Band) SW radio plugged into your laptop. Good weather reports and ISO Charts from Germany and UK (I use JVComm32 software) You can of course tune into the NAVTEX channel.
Having said that I've just sold my SSB Radio via MB&Y to clear space in my boat.

 

[asteven221]

Navtex? Not as outdated as telex, but surely as outdated as fax! Do many folk still use this old technology as a source of weather information? The quality of weather data available from so many other sources makes navtex look like black and white television with valves, or at least for coastal and offshore leisure use.

Maybe but it works for me. I have my NASA Clipper on 24/7/365 and when I get to the boat, simply scroll to the relevant point, read the forecast. Nothing to switch on/or boot up. No internet to connections required. Simple, very reliable so I can't think of anything else I would want. Sure it would be nicer if the data was presented a little better i.e. not continuous text, but even so it's hardly difficult to read. For simple straight forward weather it's ideal.