While less glamorous and expensive than most other boat electronics, the VHF radio can be critical to your safety and well being. Having two units installed or at least a handheld backup is strongly recommended.
Routine Checks:
It’s a good idea to verify the proper operation of your electronics prior to leaving the dock. Weather channels can offer a quick check on your radio’s receiver and antenna. Find a channel that normally comes in a little weak and scratchy and use that as your reference point. Then go to a normal working frequency (i.e. 68) and transmit between your two units. These quick tests don’t guarantee your unit is totally up to specifications but at least gives you verification of their basic operation. Always turn your…. read on about VHF troubleshooting
