VHF Installation Question.

[BoneDigger]

I just purchased a Shakespeare antenna (8 ft) and Standard Communications Quest VHF radio. The installation manual says that the radio and antenna must be 2 ft from each other. Is this completely necessary? I want to mount the radio and antenna to my console but this would only be approximately 1 ft from each other. Also, it says that the antenna should be 2-3 feet from passengers. Is this mostly for daily users (work?)? I only use the boat approximately 1-2 times per week. Please advise... Any help would be greatly appreciated.<br /><br />Todd

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: VHF Installation Question.

BoneDigger. It is important to have the radio and antenna at least that far apart, otherwise you will get feedback when trying to broadcast, and your transmissions will sound garbled. I don't think it's so important to have the base of the antenna 2 to 3 feet from passengers, but the tip should certaninly be. Accidentally touching the upper portion of the antenna while broadcasting will deliver quite a shock of the carcinogenic kind if you know what I mean. Not good. You're safe around the base of the antenna though. Good luck.

 

[Boatist]

Re: VHF Installation Question.

BoneDigger<br />Antenna too close to the radio can cause all the oscillators to be overpowered by the antenna 25 watt transmit power. I also like at least a 6 foot coax but will probably work ok with 3 feet.<br /><br />Here is one possible option if you have a good solid mounting surface and a heavy metal mount. Get a 2 foot or 4 foot antenna extension. This will raise the radiation part of the antenna away from the radio and people, it will also give you a little bit more range. I have used the 2 foot with a heavy 5225 Galaxy Shakespeare antenna and a Stainless steel mount without a upper support and had no problems. If you have a light mount or weak surface you are mounting to then I would not recommend the extension without a upper support.<br /><br /> http://mastercatalog04.westmarine.com/0080.asp