The Boating Forum - VHF/GPS Handheld Combo for DSC?

First off, I am NOT attempting to set up a bulk buy for this unit. :)

After seeing the response to the EPIRB bulk buys, I started thinking about the safety equip on my boat for INSHORE fishing, and what I have in my ditch bag. I have a backup handheld GPS, which I like and a good backup handheld VHS which I also like.

I have a fixed mount GPS and fixed mount VHF in the console, hooked together VIA NMEA so that I can use the DSC feature in an emergency. The fixed radio is programmed with the MMSI #.

That said, running through the real nightmare scenarios - it occurs to me that if the boat swamped or capsized, the fixed mount VHF would likely stop sending a signal.

So, it occurs to me that a handheld VHF/GPS combo like this one might be a very economical inshore alternative to a personal EPIRB. (I know, it's not exactly the same, does not have the range, but I'm talking about inshore emergencies). Since the GPS and VHF are in one, waterproof handheld unit, you could send the DSC distress message right from the handheld unit, even if you were in the water.

So now the question: Has anybody used one of these?

http://www.byownerelectronics.com/store/product.php?productid=16805&cat=445&page=1

thanks

Good idea but if you are in the water you may have limited transmission range due to the antenna being oly a foot or so above water.

I would opt for the regular handheld and get an EPIRB. That way if you are in VHF range you can talk to someone and know that the helicopters and search vessels will be out looking for you.

I'd suggest a G-PIRB if you can afford it, instead of the EPIRB. Then decide between that multi-functional handlheld VHF or a simpler model.

Good luck!

Not suggesting it as an EPIRB substitute, but maybe an INSHORE alternative if cost is an issue. Consider My regular handheld VHF was almost $200, a good handheld GPS will run you close to $200 (more with charts), and a personal EPIRB will run you $500.00

that's $900-1K all said and done.

Now, that seems pretty daunting to your average Inshore boater, expensive enough that many would do without. If for 300 bucks, you can get a self contained handheld unit, capable of communicating with nearby boats, as well as sending a distress signal with your exact position, it might be an attractive choice.

I certainly wish I thought more about it before buying my separate VHF and GPS handhelds.

As it stands now, I will likely go for the EPIRB, since I already have the rest of the equipment. But I think that people choosing their basic electronics would do well to check these units out.

I asked about the same item about a month ago...got less response than you did. The one feature that I'm not thrilled with on this unit is that it does not appear to operate on alkaline batteries, so you would have to be sure it is fully charged every time you went out. As far as I know, though, it is the only handheld radio with gps and DSC built in to it.