Hi folks,
I'm in the market for a VHF radio having recently completed the RYA
short-range course.
I'd like a handheld unit that is:
Waterproof (1m/30 mins is fine)
Has built in DSC
Has reasonable battery life
Has 5 watt max power
Whilst this would be used for RIB diving, I also want something I can use
for my other sea-based sports (kayaking and rowing), so versatility is the
order of the day.
I've had a look at a number of online chandlers, but unless I've missed the
trick, nobody seems to be peddling the handheld VHFs with cut-down DSC
capabilities that we were told about during the RYA course. I'm coming to
the conclusions that these aren't on the market yet, is this right?
Any recommendations/comments much appreciated.
Thanks,
Andy
Nigel Hewitt - 13 Apr 2006 12:41 GMT
> I've had a look at a number of online chandlers, but unless I've missed the
> trick, nobody seems to be peddling the handheld VHFs with cut-down DSC
> capabilities that we were told about during the RYA course. I'm coming to
> the conclusions that these aren't on the market yet, is this right?
I've never seen one yet. That's probably because DSC is registered to
the vessel plus the integrated rigs need to be left on for the GPS to
lock in. GPS eats batteries - look at the duration you get on hand helds.
nigelh
Richard Faulkner - 13 Apr 2006 23:58 GMT
>Hi folks,
>
[quoted text clipped - 17 lines]
>coming to the conclusions that these aren't on the market yet, is this
>right?
I think they have been on the market and have been withdrawn - ISTR the
guy who taught the course in Hoylake telling us this a few weeks ago.

Signature
Richard Faulkner
ossian - 18 Apr 2006 14:41 GMT
Think Icom do a marinised handheld( ie survives a good dunking) not sure
about a DSC capability as this seems scarce on handhelds.
> Hi folks,
>
[quoted text clipped - 22 lines]
>
> Andy