GPS reception and lightning protection

A/C & D/C Wiring, GPS, Radios, etc.
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frederickunltd
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GPS reception and lightning protection

Post by frederickunltd »

Curious, since these boats are all aluminum, do you get adequate reception in the cabin for GPS and cellphone? Since they are basically faraday cages, how is the lightning protection? Also, do you present a large enough radar return to negate needing a reflector?

Thx, Bob
Bob Frederick
Louisville, KY
frederickunltd@yahoo.com
Gold Looper 34 Mainship "El Nido"
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GB49
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Re: GPS reception and lightning protection

Post by GB49 »

The glass windows negate any Faraday effects.
GPS and cellular work fine inside.

Lightning is a non issue. It would (in my opinion) be shunted out the hull into the water much easier than fiberglass. But all bets are off with a direct strike.

From what little I have read on the radar subject it does seem metal boats should use a reflector but may want to look into AIS transceiver.

-Karl
1986 Sedan 32'. Twin Chrysler 360in^3, 275hp.
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Busia
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Re: GPS reception and lightning protection

Post by Busia »

I had to mount an external antenna for my GPS. It would work fine until I turned and the signal was blocked. Cell phones seem to work though.
BUSIA
located in Ketchikan, Alaska. Gods country
32 foot Marinette (no fly bridge)
twin 350 Crusader (Chev 350) engines
1:1 Borg Warner velvet drive transmissions
Closed cooling (antifreeze in the engine)
Proud to be retired IBEW and an A+P
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