What does everyone think about Cobra radios, been looking at replacing my helm VHF with a class D having integrated GPS for the Digital Selective Calling (DSC) so don’t have to network it with my GPS multifunction display. To me it makes sense to have the Radio independently capable for sending GPS cords without having to depend on an external GPS that may or may not be functioning at the time.
The Cobras are way less expensive then Standard Horizon or ICOM units having the same functions.
My guess is a lot of these electronics, especially radios come out of the came Chinses factory just badged with different names, just my thoughts.
Now that the CG is monitoring DCS distress signals I think it’s important to make sure if you have a DSC capable radio you’ve gone the extra mile to obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numberand program it into your radio; the number is free just search online. Even if you don’t have the GPS function your identity and other information will be available to the CG, having GPS sends your cords and if the radio has Marine Automatic Identification System (AIS). Capabilities and it’s networked to a chart plotter other boats DCS distress location will populate on the screen. For me AIS is a $$$ option I can’t afford.
The Cobras are way less expensive then Standard Horizon or ICOM units having the same functions.
My guess is a lot of these electronics, especially radios come out of the came Chinses factory just badged with different names, just my thoughts.
Now that the CG is monitoring DCS distress signals I think it’s important to make sure if you have a DSC capable radio you’ve gone the extra mile to obtain a Maritime Mobile Service Identity (MMSI) numberand program it into your radio; the number is free just search online. Even if you don’t have the GPS function your identity and other information will be available to the CG, having GPS sends your cords and if the radio has Marine Automatic Identification System (AIS). Capabilities and it’s networked to a chart plotter other boats DCS distress location will populate on the screen. For me AIS is a $$$ option I can’t afford.
