GPS Antenna direction

[idonthaveaname]

Re: GPS Antenna direction

You have tested this particular antenna under the deck? You give the GPS enough time to acquire?

The GPS is a Garmin (I think they have a fair reputation :facepalm I have tested antenna under cover and it does not pick up the satellites. The minute it is located under an open sky it kicks in. Like I said, $7 and I don't expect much. If it works on sunny days I'm good with that and I don't plan on traveling across to Bimini or Mexico or Texas. I do use it to navigate some back country areas in the Everglades but that's about as lost as I get. I have spent my life on those waters and know them well so the GPS is really a luxury. I also carry charts and a compass. Personally I am looking for a good deal on a Garmin compatible antenna; that's just my preference. In the meantime this one should serve the purpose.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: GPS Antenna direction

Sounds good. Just very surprised it didn't work under the deck since I have never seen any GPS that doesn't before.

 

[idonthaveaname]

Re: GPS Antenna direction

Sounds good. Just very surprised it didn't work under the deck since I have never seen any GPS that doesn't before.

I appreciate the comments and ideas. NMEA suggests a clear view of the sky. I have seen antennas with specific mention of installing below deck, but more often the instructions dictates a clear view.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: GPS Antenna direction

Might as well get as much signal strength as you can.

 

[dingbat]

Re: GPS Antenna direction

Do you have the latest software on the unit?

There where quite a few issues a while back when the government decommissioned a couple of the GPS satellites. Garmin sent new software for my Garmin 4208 to correct the problem.

A friend of mine had a Standard Horizon GPS mounted on the helm in his center console that was sensitive to blockage. You couldn't stand within a couple of feet of the unit or it would take a dump until you moved away.