New GPS Unit

[Fishin Dude]

I'm going to update my electronics by replacing the 2003 (B&W) Fishfinder unit. I've decided on a Lowrance LMS-527C DF IGPS , which is a combination GPS/FF unit, internal antenna. I'll be keeping my handheld GPS onboard as an emergency backup. I was at West Marine today and spoke to a salesman who had NO idea that GPS was available with an internal antenna. My question to him went unawnsered, so I seek NJSWF advice. Has anyone used an internal antenna GPS, and if so, how was the performance? Would mounting it on the console of my 2101 DC equiped with a bimini and full isenglass/canvass enclosure, prevent the unit from obtaining a proper satalite signal? Would I be better off getting the same unit but with an external antenna? <'((((><

[Capt. Mike]

Go for the external, a lot safer!

[mboy]

I would go eternal as well and get it up higher then the console if  possible.

[CapBob]

It is going to depend on where you mount it...do you have a center console with no top?? If so an internal would be ok, if you have any type of top go with the external.

I opt for the external any time......better aquisition of the Sat's.......

Go to Consumers Marine Electronics on Rt 34 in wall. They have loads of units on display and are very knowledgable, will gladly help you....and a lot cheaper than West Marine

[Luna Sea 5]

I would go with the external also.. but I do have a internal one built into my ATV and it work pretty good.

[IrishAyes]

If that unit has an internal antenna and you can hook up an external to it, try it with the internal first.  If you can lock in on the satelites, great.  If not, then go out and purchase the external antenna.


In the past, I have used a hand held unit on my Parker Sport Cabin with no problems.

[ped579]

In your case internal is fine.  Fiberglass and canvas have no effect on the signal it is when you have metal surrounding you as in a car, that is why you mount the units with internal ant's on the windshield.  They have to be able to see the signal.

If you decide to use an external ant. you probably will not see to much of a gain in signal strength.  Make sure your connections are sealed, salt can be a pain when it come to electronics.  I believe Radio Shack has the seal it is like putty only it does not get brittle.  I use it on all my ham antennas here at the house.

Paul

[Hunter 2]

If that unit has an internal antenna and you can hook up an external to it, try it with the internal first.  If you can lock in on the satelites, great.  If not, then go out and purchase the external antenna.


In the past, I have used a hand held unit on my Parker Sport Cabin with no problems.

 

I find the best deals on line. No tax if the dealer is out of state and usually free shipping on expensive items. I saved $200 on my Hummingbird 917c

[bassnblues]

I bought my Garmin with an external antenna. It broke (my fault) and I was able to order the back plate from Garmin that had the internal antenna built in. Haven't had any problems.

If you are mounting it in a cabin or under a T-top, I don't think you have a choice but to get an external.

[Luna Sea 5]

that is true.. If you have a T-top, the antenna will have to be above it or you will not get good satalite connection.

[bassnblues]

BTW...the rep I spoke to at Garmin when I ordered the internal antenna said there was no difference in performance from an external. He told me the  only reson for an external is for remote mounting.

I tended to believe him because the internal was cheaper than the external + cable.

[IrishAyes]

Just so you can pick up and lock onto the satelites, you will be fine.

[ped579]

Like I mentioned earlier, fiberglass will have no effect on the signal at all.  It is just like mounting the unit on the windshield of a car.  If your top was made of metal or graphite you might have a problem, but I don't think that is the case here.

Happy Catching

PAul