I run an AB antenna switch for top of mast and top of stern arch on the boat. Any advice on operating so it won't burn out if permanent mounted?
1940010
As long as the connections and switch are properly sealed, you shouldn't have a problem.
1312894
It plugs into your current alternating system on your boat. When you connect the antenna to your radio the current that feeds the radio also feeds the antenna.
1217903
Look for a power antenna wire. It will also work. If that is not available you can use a switched source from radio or your fuse panel.
1943549
You will need a antenna and I bought one from amazon. Look for marine antenna, it works great.Dual MAR16B Marine Flexible Mast Antenna Black, its small and works great.
1413534
yes you do need a antenna,for vhf the lenth varys depending on what type of boat installed on,wheir to mount,theirs a few varibles so read up on it before purchaseing
1176247
Gary, thanks for the question but I'm unsure? I have not yet even installed this VHF as a major refit has been delayed. All the best
1887040
If it's like a Jon boat yes but if it's an enclosed hull, the gain end of the antenna (non plug end) has to be exposed outside the hull somehow. That end of the antenna has to be able to have best possible reception and aluminum will distort rf signals.
1479912
I might mention , I put my anchor at the front and I also put the up down switch on the front of my pontoon too, I am glad I did as it sometimes comes up dirty with mud, I can see it and drop/lift it a couple times until it cleans then put it all the way up into the holder. I has hung a couple times too and you can see it as you are retrieving it and stop or start it as it happens. Overall "we" love it. worth the money if it lasts.
412487
Yes you can, however the channel master company and antenna web site both recommend 25-30 ft off the ground, using guy wires at every 10 ft . Luckily you will not need to ground the mast, due to its earth grounding
282363
No, in fact grounding the mast may attract lighting. I am very satisfied with my LAVA. It's out standing. I feel this antenna is too fragile for outdoor use. With an attic mount I get crystal clear reception for up to sixty miles.
1893938
First response I think of is whether there is adequate signal and if the lights light up quicker if you move the antenna to a different direction? Next thing I think of is a loose connection from the side mounted switch to the antenna power line at the antenna itself? It is good to test the connection before sealing it all up, but I really don't want to go there! Good luck!
1180796
I suppose you could but would need to be careful about choosing the correct wire to split and place within the switch.. this will NOT handle high amperage so you will also need to be sure that the draw is not all that great.. a smaller boat should be ok
878273
I believe one option is to mount in attic. I am not sure what impact this will have on performance but was option on the website if I remember. I mounted mine outside and it works great on channels I receive.
853955
Sounds like some of the elements- rods sticking out on antenna broke. Assuming mast is I damaged. You will have to buy a new antenna. If you have an attic or space above garage you may wish to try attic installation. YouTube has many videos showing how.
2070220
I have mine mounted to the T-top of my bay boat. They are awesome and seem to be quit durable. I used an ATV ball jointed mounting bracket so I can make the directional.
1371801
You should ground it. There is a grounding kit available from the manufacturer, but you can do it yourself. Another option is moving the antenna down. Mine is only 7 feet off the ground and it works perfectly. You may not need to have it up so high. Also consider an inline coax surge protector.
1616047
The internal antenna I feel is a little bit better than the external antenna. In 2013 I had a brand new boat set up with a new 898/external antenna, every time i backed off the boat lift it was searching for a signal, that boat was destroyed in a building collapse over winter. so I now have a new 2014 boat set up with an 899 and a 999 with internal antennas the "searching for signal" rarely comes up and I fished the exact same lake all this past season. I think you will enjoy your new unit.