Communications

PredictWind Satcom Reviews

Unless you plan to have Internet access where youre sailing, its essential to set up the service on the PredictWind website before setting sail....

A Look at PLB Battery Life

Analyzing the resultsOnce all of Imanna’s numbers were crunched—decibels above 1 microvolt (dBμV) are converted to decibels above 1 milliwatt (dBm), the antenna gain...

Remote VHF Mics Test

0)]Standard Horizon RAM3Standard Horizon’s RAM3 remote microphone provides full remote control of its Quantum, Matrix, Quest-X, Quest+, and Phantom series fixed VHF radios. This...

Is the SEND Device Message Loud and Clear?

Tracking AegeanAs a result of the Aegean incident, GEOS has changed its protocol for responding to alerts with no position data. Now, when a...

Feature Loaded High-end VHFs

Standard Horizon GX2150The GX2150 Matrix AIS+ has a built-in dual-channel AIS receiver that allows the VHF to display AIS target information, including MMSI, call...

A Rundown on Common VHF Features and Functions

AquaQuake: A draining function specific to Icom radios; a vibrating "buzz" clears water from the speaker grill.Noise-canceling: Reduces background noise, so you can be...

Useful and Fun Nautical Apps for iPad

Instrument DisplayThese apps replicate onboard instrument displays, using the iPad’s GPS information.• Marine SailMaster HD: The Marine SailMaster HD app, designed by Leland Roys,...

Practical Sailor Reviews Iridium and Inmarsat Satphones

Iridium’s new 9575 satellite phone is a step up from its current 9555 and should be available at presstime. It is called the Iridium...

USCG Safety Alert Concerning DSC-equipped VHFs

Most of today’s fixed VHF marine radios come equipped with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) capability, and many high-end handheld VHFs do as well. For...

Local Loft Versus Web-based Service

Not every sailor has a selection of local sailmakers to choose from. He or she must instead rely on Internet research and phone conversations...

The UNIQUE Maxus 26 Lifting Keel Trailer Sailor

What is the best trailerable sailboat? One big feature is the mast stepping system. Today we look at trailer sailors like the Catalina 275,...

Latest Sailboat Review

Morgan Out Island 36 Used Boat Review

Most are familiar with Charles Morgan and his Out Island 41, primarily made to cruise and charter in the Bahamas, but not many are...