GPS ?

[randallt 0]

I am about to purchase a GPS unit for my Boat. Should I go with an internal antenna or an external? What are the pros and cons of each?

[boatfixer 0]

If you plan on leaving it in your boat all the time, then go with the external.

[computerboy 0]

INTERNAL

Pros:

- Portable

- No need to go through the pain of mounting an antenna

Cons:

- Not nearly as good at aquiring and maintaining a signal as one with an external antenna

- Widshields and consoles can interfere with signal

EXTERNAL

Pros:

- Best at aquiring and maintaining connection with satellites

- Modular; antenna can be used with other models by the same manufacturer (e.g. Lowrance LCG-2000 GPS antenna can be used with several Lowrance units).

Cons:

- Not portable

- Requires mounting an antenna and running wires in the boat

If you plan on only using your gps in the boat, then go with an external antenna. If you plan on using it for ice fishing or in your vehical, go with an internal antenna.

Good luck!

[randallt 0]

Thanks guys for the input. I went with the external, I just wasn't sure if it would be a big enough difference in reception to justify the extra $100.