Backup GPS

[boatrboy]

I have a garmin 2006c chartplotter and keep a garmin 176 handheld as my backup. I keep spare batteries and the dc cord handy. I choose this unit because the functions are nearly identical to the 2006, and if needed I can use the handheld without missing a beat. I also keep a handheld vhf and it has a tray for batteries, plus its rechargeable battery.
While I appreciate the advice from the more experienced guys here, I must admit that in rough seas, it is much harder to focus on reading the charts, then reading my gps. I know how to read the charts, but if my gps goes out - I am pulling the back up out first.

 

[Jack380AC]

..... While I appreciate the advice from the more experienced guys here, I must admit that in rough seas, it is much harder to focus on reading the charts, then reading my gps. I know how to read the charts, but if my gps goes out - I am pulling the back up out first.

I wish I had a backup that day. It was intense. I'm gunna get me one some day.

 

[tobnpr]

I'll probably get flamed big time for this, but paper charts have gone the way of the dinosaur for me.
I have a handheld gps (with an alkaline battery pack) in the ditch bag (along with handheld VHF) in case I ever need it- loss of power on the boat included.
Two chartplotter displays that do the same thing (but better) as paper charts. Hell, they ARE paper charts- just on a computer chip.

I see no reason for paper charts given modern technology.

 

[comsnark]

Yeah. . this is what I suspected.

That is what struck me as a read the other GPS threads in the electronics sections. Paper charts really are going the way of the Sextant.

Where I boat, it's ALL local. And the visibility is always good -> even at night! No charts (or GPS) is needed. But if my GPS ever broke. . I would be ordering a new one the next day (opportunity to upgrade!). I just think about my times boating at night. . oh sure I could get away without the Gizmo, but it would not be nearly as fun nor as easy.

 

[tawcat]

Sheesh, WTP07 reminded me that I also two portable VHF's.

I think the old way is fun, just as is the old fashioned addition and subtraction. But us older folks have to keep up with and accept change. Not Obama change, but real change.

Sadly we have become a Blackberry society. Never realized what I was missing 'til I got a Blackberry!!!! Thus two GPS's, and one for the car that in a pinch I can put on the boat. Two portable VHF's just in case.

The Admiral always asks, "do we really need that?" My reply, "better to be safe than sorry!"

Hell its only paper!!! The roller coaster ride we've been on at Wall Street is better than any ride Disney invented!!!!

 

[comsnark]

Hah! True! I carry two VHF's as well.

I used the VHF exactly ONCE. Usually have at least two, if not four, cell phones aboard. Works fine in my entire boating area. Use the Cell phones all the time. To call each other. To call fuel docks. Make dinner reservations. . order pizza to arrive at home if weather turns bad out on the water.

 

[Big Al]

A backup GPS ?

Actually I am thinking of adding a second "permanent" GPS. However I don't know if it would be the same make (Raymarine) of a different one like Garmin.

And, I will still keep my existing back-up GPS.

 

[Pseudomind]

I am planning on getting a portable GPS type chart plotter for maintaining trip data the RL80 will keep up to 48 entries, before it re-writes, but the newer portable systems do a better job

I also have GPS in my portable backup VHF, and I have paper charts which I use and study before any trip.

I like to be able to unfold and look at a chart, then do a comparison with the chart plotter where known areas to watch out for may be located. I like some of this change and I figure if the military is using it, why not I. I am old school so I like to know about both. I even purchase the ICW guide and read about the travel from mile marker to mile marker for a given area I may be soon traveling.

:thumbsup:

 

[comsnark]

Hmmm. Interesting. . .but my Garmin GPS uses the same source of information as my paper charts. They both have the same errors!

My GPS charts are now a year or two old. My paper chart on the SeaRay is 10 years old.

BTW: Besides backup VHF, I also carry a backup spotlight, plus one flashlight, when I am on the water at night. I will definately have two flashlights on board next year.

 

[Pseudomind]

Hmmm. Interesting. . .but my Garmin GPS uses the same source of information as my paper charts. They both have the same errors!

My GPS charts are now a year or two old. My paper chart on the SeaRay is 10 years old...

I have charts just purchased and the charts have more detailed information on them then the plotter displays. My C-map is last years until the next update comes out.