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Waterproof VHF radio, Garmin |
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The high spec, handheld Garmin Waterproof VHF radio comes like a breath of fresh air in a market which has always seemed to me to be either short on quality, long on price - or both.
The keypad controls of the Garmin will help retain the waterproof integrity - they also claim that it's submersible - and will allow single-handed operation.
The layout is logical and the LCD display is up to Garmin's usual high visibility. The spec also includes triple watch. Power is switchable 5w/l w, driven either by your 12v supply, or the rechargeable battery pack, which can be replaced with 6 M cells (alkaline or rechargeable). The stand-by duration is 6 hr on the Ms and 13 hr using the nicad pack, which comes as part of a very generous list of standard accessories, including a mounting bracket, charger stand, 12v lead, wall charger, belt clip and wrist strap.
We get a lot of use from our handheld, both on the boat and in the dinghy, or riding the bike along the canal towpath ahead of the boat, telling Rita about lock readiness, boat traffic and other useful advance information. If the new Garmin can survive a season with us it will be a welcome newcomer especially as the attractive price of £323 will be even less when it 'hits the street.' |
