Handheld VHFs with GPS/DSC

zuunami · Posted: Mon Dec 27, 2021 6:44 pm Post subject: Handheld VHFs with GPS/DSC

I was wondering if anyone has any strong opinions about the latest crop of handhelds with integrated GPS/DSC - I'm looking at the Cobra HH600, the Uniden MHS335BT, the Icom M94D, and the Standard Horizons HX890.

They're all about $200, except the Icom, which is $100 more, probably for the AIS. Not really sure the AIS would be helpful on a handheld, and we really don't have a lot of traffic in our area. I would rather get an AIS enabled fixed unit later when we upgrade that.

We currently have a less expensive Cobra that doesn't have DSC, but I like the ergonomics of it. I'm not sure the bright screen is necessary, though. The Uniden looks like it has a nice big screen, and it has bluetooth (as does the Cobra), although I'm not sure we would use that function. Both the Icom and the Horizons have FM instead of bluetooth (I guess you can only pack so much in a small package) - not sure we would use the FM, though.

I'm kind of attracted to the relatively large screen of the Horizons, as well as the dedicated volume and channel buttons. Although, since we're newbies to all of this, maybe this isn't very important.

Anyway, would appreciate any feedback!

srbaum · Posted: Mon Dec 27, 2021 8:32 pm Post subject:

Robert and Karen,
I have the Standard Horizon in my crash bag, which I carry it to each of my boats, when I actually are using them. I too like the screen image and have been a fan of SH fixed mount and portables for at least the last 10 years.

thataway · Posted: Mon Dec 27, 2021 10:23 pm Post subject:

I have favored the Standard Horizon. (The Icom is also professional grade). The SH is by Vertex, a company which makes both HAM radio and commercial radio gear. They have a solid reputation. I avoid those whose main products were scanners or CB type of radio.

If your current radio does not have DSC--then you are not taking advantage of all safety features. To use DSC and those features, you have to get an MMSI number and program it into your radio. Without the MMSI number it will not give you the emergency facility.

Peter & Judy · Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2021 12:01 pm Post subject:

We have a pair of Standard Horizons that we use when sea kayaking and also carry on the boat. I also have a Standard Horizon as my main fixed radio on my boat. I am very pleased with all of them and would not hesitate to buy these same radios again. All three of the radios have DSC and separate MMSI numbers. This is a safety feature that I would not skimp on. Being able to transmit and SOS message with the touch of a button is priceless in my opinion.

zuunami · Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2021 4:34 pm Post subject:

thanks everyone. We have DSC on our current handheld, but it doesn't have an internal GPS like the ones I mentioned. I think that's kind of a no brainer feature, so we'll probably be going with the Standard Horizon, although they seem to be out of stock everywhere, of course Smile

chromer · Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2021 6:41 pm Post subject:

Harvey will know

hardee · Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2021 8:01 pm Post subject:

Roamad · Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2021 9:20 pm Post subject:

I have the Icom M93D, slightly older model with GPS/DSC but no AIS. Great radio. I registered it to get an MMSI number, easy to do online if you’re a BoatUS member. It’s a chunky radio, too big for most pockets, but it has a belt clip. Also you can get an adapter to attach an external antenna and use it as your primary radio, also you can plug in a handheld mic/speaker, which I’ve done a few times. Nice backup feature. The screen shows GPS coordinates, which is handy for verifying location.

ssobol · Posted: Tue Dec 28, 2021 10:49 pm Post subject:

Roamad · Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2021 12:33 pm Post subject:

Ssobol: Of course that is true and I wasn’t suggesting it as a permanent solution.

thataway · Posted: Wed Dec 29, 2021 1:09 pm Post subject:

Harvey wrote:

hardee · Posted: Thu Dec 30, 2021 2:06 am Post subject:

Thanks for that link Bob. It would be interesting to know what info is generated at the USCG when that video test comes in.

A "Red Button" DSC call from a VHF that has an assigned MMSI number, will show the boat description info that is supplied with the MMSI application along with the lat and long point of call. I believe that is what your USCG friend is refering to " . . . he has stated many times that for DSC to work you must have the MMSI programmed in.

A "Red Button" call can still be made without an MMSI, (at least in that generation of HH VHF) and It will send the call out but with only the GPS coordinates, and not include the boat description. I will have to recheck, but when I purchased 2 of the Standard Horizon HX851 Handheld VHF's, that is the information I was given by someone as SH when I was trying to decide if and what to do as far as programming my HH's. I have one programmed with my MMSI and one without.

From the link you provided.

Roamad · Posted: Fri Dec 31, 2021 7:37 pm Post subject:

The automated radio check stations, I believe, are gone from the West Coast. I have used Ch. 16 a few times recently with a prompt reply from fellow boaters and no friction from USCG (after installing a new VHF radio and then a new antenna). Of course, this does not test the MMSI, only the radio’s basic tx/rx functions.

ssobol · Posted: Fri Dec 31, 2021 7:57 pm Post subject:

hardee · Posted: Sat Jan 01, 2022 6:07 pm Post subject:

In the PNW waters, a "Radio Check" call on 16 will get a prompt reply from USCG that that is the wrong channel for that and you are invited to try again on 22.

It's a shame that there are not more Auto Reply radio check places. They are very helpful.

Harvey
SleepyC Moon