VHF RAM: Where to mount in cockpit?

SEMIJim · #1 (**permalink**) 10-14-2008

At some point (next season, I hope) I plan to upgrade our current non-DSC VHF radio to, probably, either an Icom 402, Icom 422 or Standard Horizon Quest-X GX1500S. That'll get us DSC capability and remote-access microphone (RAM) capability. The latter is interesting because the (current) radio isn't very handy from the cockpit--being installed down in the cabin.

The question is: Where to install the RAM?

It's probably not safe to put it up on either side of the companionway, because the mainsheet, mainsheet traveller and, at times, halyards drag across those surfaces. (Can just picture crash-dumping the main or an unintentional gybe and watching said RAM get ripped out of the bulkhead because its coily-cord got wrapped-up in a line.

).

There's nowhere along either side of the cockpit that it won't be in the way.

Now, out racing on another, albeit smaller (26', IIRC) boat a while ago, the captain just had a hand-held secured to one of the pushpit stanchions. Worked like a charm. So I'm thinkin': Why not install the RAM back there? It'll be out of the way, but still far closer-to-hand than the radio down in the cabin and both it and its coily-cord well out of the way of danger. Only problem there is it might be inconvenient for whomever's on the tiller.

Thoughts?

Jim

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 10-14-2008

I have mine installed in the aft corner of the cockpit, right below the stereo remote control.

docbob5707 · #3 (**permalink**) 10-14-2008

Mine is installed at the helm. I have wheel steering and a pedistal guard where the mike is installed. Just my opinion, I would think any where within reach of the helm would work. I find when I am talking to the Coast Guard or a Harbor Master that's were I'm at.

Idiens · #4 (**permalink**) 10-14-2008

I mounted my Standard Horizon Quest-X GX1500 RAM next to the throttle/gear control. It was an easy internal cable run from there.

Wayne25 · #5 (**permalink**) 10-14-2008

For now, mine is fished out the transom's air intake cowl and hangs down the stern cockpit seat. Very easy to access from the tiller and easy to hear without being to loud for others in the cockpit.

camaraderie · #6 (**permalink**) 10-14-2008

Simple solution...instead of a RAM...get a Uniden WHAM...no cords...just hang the mic in a clip on the pedestal.
Uniden | A World Without Wires - WHAM

We use 'em on the docks here...works great and is better than a handheld since we get the 20+ MILE range of the base radio. (Works with their Oceanus and UM525 & 625 radios)

CaptKermie · #7 (**permalink**) 10-14-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by camaraderie

Simple solution...instead of a RAM...get a Uniden WHAM...no cords...just hang the mic in a clip on the pedestal.
Uniden | A World Without Wires - WHAM

We use 'em on the docks here...works great and is better than a handheld since we get the 20+ MILE range of the base radio. (Works with their Oceanus and UM525 & 625 radios)

I have to second this idea because I have one, a Uniden 525 with a WHAM mic. Both are installed below because the WHAM is recharged in the cradle. Once charged you can clip it onto your hip via belt or something or just clip it somewhere in the cockpit ready for use. Nice little units.

SEMIJim · #8 (**permalink**) 10-15-2008

Thanks for the recommendation Cam, CK, but: 1. Never been all that fond of Uniden products. I dunno, maybe their marine stuff is good, but... 2. Both the radio and the wireless remote access mics are over-budget. I can do either the Icom 402 or the SH 1500, RAM and all, for under $300 IIRC.

Delirious · #9 (**permalink**) 10-15-2008

On our Catalina 34 I mounted the RAM mike in the "T" cutout to port (just above the manual bilge pump lid). That way it was out of the main traffic area and either the helmsman or crew could reach it.

Another good spot I've seen used is inside a winch-handle cubby. Clip it to the "roof" inside the hole and the handle won't smack it. Might not be a good spot on a racer as the handle goes in & out fast.

camaraderie · #10 (**permalink**) 10-15-2008

Jim...no problem if you don't like Uniden. BUT the price is actually more reasonable than you seem to think.
The Oceanus radio is 117 here and the WHAM is $115.
The 525 that Kermie and we have is $199...so with EITHER radio...the price is either below your solution or right at it....without ANY worries about wiring AND the ability to ADD one to 3 more wirelss mics in the future which can also be used as on board intercoms between captain and crew like when you need to curse at each other when coming into a dock!