Electronics Thread, Pros and Cons of Combination GPS/VHF in Boating Discussion; Need advice, what are the pros and cons of buying a combination gps/vhf unit vs buying the units separately beside ...
Dual is nice for space reasons but when you have to send it in for service you are down two systems at once. I have a dual and like it for space reasons. If I had more space i would have two units a gps and FF. In addition you are pulling less power with one unit.
If I am out 30 and lose my FF no big deal, but if my FF is also my GPS I have a problem. I went with seprate models just to be safer. Everyone has thier own opinion. My 2cents.
Either or is just fine. If equipment is installed right you'll never have to send it in for repairs. Even if you do think servicing may happen in about 3 to 5 years some retailers provide additional coverage for full replacement.
Which is good because in salt water unless you take good care of your electronics many electronics can be impaired after 5 years of service depending on environmental conditions.
USN electronic rooms are kept at 75 degrees for protecting electronics. Higher and lower ambient temperatures will degrade electronic performance eventually leading to failure.
So that would be to say if you use equipment out on deck exposed to the environment. Replacing electronics should be done about every 3 to 5 years due to the effects of the environment. Yet there are many boats that do take good care of the electronics and those systems do remain in good operation over 15 years plus.
We are going to install the Garmin 5212 with one additional GPS system. We also have two VHF radios on baord and one hand held. If you can afford to have seperate units, go that direction, especially if you will be off shore. Lastly, get a good antenna and an extension. The higher the better. You can also link your gps to your distress on the radio. You hear it way to often Pan Pan-Pan Pan, report of? Unknown location!
Pros and Cons of Combination GPS/VHF 
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