Buying a new VHF...

[Freddy]

I found a couple of youtube videos that clearly describe DSC and AIS and how they work

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ga6WdGkaeNM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAXOlOFYd_Y

[tsawyer]

For that 2150 model, it doesn't look like it includes a built in GPS.

Read the comments under the black model.

http://www.amazon.com/Standard-Horizon- ... sbs_misc_2

There are comments that indicate some issues if not fully installed and integrated.

[Big D]

I beleive Standard Horizon's unit with a built-in GPS is the EXPLORER GPS. The one shown in the link above is one of their AIS models and requires an external GPS reciever.

[alexander38]

that's sweet,I'm sold

http://www.amazon.com/Standard-Horizon- ... sbs_misc_2

[Freddy]

I ended up getting the Standard Horizon GX2150. For the price you get so many features I couldn't pass it up. Now I just have to find the wire that will allow it to communicate with my chartplotter. I think I read somewhere that someone had to splice two wires together in order to have the correct connection for each device. Hopefully my season will start soon so I can tell you all if it lives up to my expectations.

[Big D]

Grey, Blue, Green, brown wires from back of unit/cable for NMEA connections to your GPS reciever. Click "Owner's Manual" at:
http://www.standardhorizon.com/indexvs. ... Archived=0

[Diverted Income]

That model has a built in antenna. I wonder how it works from under the top without clear view of the sky.

Installed a GX1700 this week at the lower helm. GPS does function and under a covered slip to boot! I was pleasantly surprised.

[Big D]

GPS reception has come a long way. There were GPS displays set up at the Toronto boat show with built-in antennas that had no problem picking up a signal in the building.