Second radio for R23 with AIS

[RThorn]

I would like to add a second VHF radio both for AIS monitoring capability but also to be able to monitor more than 1 VHF frequency. Space is limited in the R23. Where are folks mounting the second radio and did you add AIS this way?

 

[scross]

If space is really a concern have you considered a AIS capable handheld? Lots of good units from Icom (M94D) and Standard Horizon (HX890). If you are worried about range with a handheld you could always consider connecting it to an AIS tuned external antenna.

 

[marksandyham]

I use a Standard Horizon handheld. Many advantages over fixed unit

 

[SJI Sailor]

+1 to handheld.

Also note that your VHF may have a dual or triple watch feature (which monitors any channel you select ad hoc, perhaps another fixed channel such as 22 or 9 or 5, and always 16 in addition).

By default some of the Garmin VHFs monitor (selected channel) + 9 + 16 in triple watch mode, but you can change the monitored second channel (9) to something else. I set it to 5 for the Seattle area VTS traffic (13 or 22 could be other good choices. Or 66a for marinas, etc.)

Remember that monitoring 16 is required by the Nav Rules at pretty much all times.

 

[RThorn]

any way to integrate the ais info from the handheld to the Garmin 7400?

 

[Cutwater28GG]

expensive but..

you could go black box and just have the mic on the dash.

https://www.garmin.com/en-US/p/902858

or ceiling mount it.

 

[Haifisch]

The Vesper Cortex system (Garmin Link) mentioned above is pretty awesome. It not only monitors, but transmits your AIS and adds a second radio all using the same antenna. NMEA2000 Compatible with your MFD. The sound quality on the handheld is freakishly clear and you can leave your existing radio as a backup. Most radios let you monitor more than one channel but if you are boating with buddies it is nice to watch 16,13 & 9 on one radio and leave 68 on the other for you to chat about your route.