Shiner

I'm needing a new GPS unit for my boat. I'm needing to know if the internal or external antenae makes a difference. I have a boat with a T-Top, but that shouldn't keep the internal from working, right? Any advice is greatly appreciated.

Chris Couture

Obviously an antenna with a clear view to the sky would work better than one that is under the metal work of a T-top. They both would work but when you are trying to find something underwater, you want the best accuracy you can get. I would say if your GPS can support an external antenna, put it on the boat!



That's just my opinion and I have not used one with an internal antenna under a T-top so I could be wrong...

sealark

I have a Garmin 276c with an internal antenna and my boat has a T top. I have never had a problem with reception. My 276c has an older receiver unit with the newer surf 3 receivers the reception is even better. My 276c has a hard time receiving inside my house and my Car nuvi 660 with the latestsurf 3 receiver will receive satellites anywhere inside the house. I would think anexternal antenna in my case would just be a waste of money and time rigging and mounting it.

sidetracked

i have a mounted gps with an external antenna and a back up hand held with an internal antenna. I can't notice a difference except when in differential mode - the internal looses the "differential" fix on and off more often, but not the complete fix so unless I am reading the type of fix I have I don't notice any difference between the two....

Voodoo Lounge

I've installed a ton with the internal antenna, and even recommend it to customers who want to save a few dollars. Never had an issue, as long as it's a bracket mount you'll be fine

Red Fly

Here is a post that I did recently on a problem with an externalreceiver/antennae for my Lowrance.

http://pensacolafishingforum.com/fis...61722-4-1.aspx

When I was originally shopping for a unit I did learn that the better ones have connections for an external receiver. I went with an externalthat because I intend to add a 1/2 tower within the next year or so and I hope to get at least 3 yrs of service on my GPS before having to update.

cuzmondo

I went through the same thing when riggin' our boat. I went with the external antenna because I have a hard top and this was the set up most folksrecommended. I also run a Garmin 76 handheld unit as a back up. I honestly don't think I'd do it again, the handlheld is every bit as quick to lock on, is just as accurate, and actuallyhas been more reliable. I've already replaced the cable end on the external GPS antenna;and it was one of those highquality center-pin type. My fixed mount unit is a Garmin 498, which I like very much, but honestly think the internal antenna version would work just as well.

FLYBOY

I have a hard top on my boat and my Garmin with Internal GPS works perfectly...always has an accuracy of less than 10ft and has never lost satellite reception. It was super easy to rig. I honestly don't think the external version would make any difference.

ted-hurst

I have a T-Top and have not had a problem with either my Garmin 60C handheld or a Garmin 392. Both have internal antenna's, but I don't know how well they would work with a hardtop.

Ted