Will a built in GPS for DSC work in cabin?

[Catamaran]

Morning all,

Thinking of fitting an Icom M423g VHF with the built in gps for the DSC.

Question is, will it work through a standard fibreglass cabin roof/bulkhead?

My iPad and other modern gps equipment work in the cabin, but Icom fitting instructions suggest it should be fitted in a window or open air...

We want a built in gps to minimise the chance of breakage or cockup if DSC is ever required?

 

[johnalison]

I don't know about the Icom, but my Raymarine e7 works from in the cabin of my 34. I think much modern equipment is more sensitive than in the past.

 

[Tam Lin]

Just bought a Standard Horizon 1700e. Works well inside and picks up the satellites quickly. I know it's not an Icom but if one make can work then I expect others do.

 

[Catamaran]

Cheers guys... I thought as much.

 

[Alpha22]

It will probably be OK. But consider if the deck is awash it may have issues..... The signals go through GRP no problem, but an inch of water will kill them dead.

 

[Giblets]

We have a Garmin plotter with inbuilt aerial at the chart table which supplies the VHF with the position feed and that set-up works OK. Can take a bit of time to lock on on start-up but no probs otherwise.

 

[Catamaran]

It will probably be OK. But consider if the deck is awash it may have issues..... The signals go through GRP no problem, but an inch of water will kill them dead.

Good point... It'll be fitted under the cabin roof, which is sloping, so it'll never be awash for more than a second at a time.

 

[sadlerbob]

I fitted a SH 2200 this year and it has signal all the time.

 

[ex-Gladys]

I fitted a SH 2200 this year and it has signal all the time.

+1