XM WX Questions

[Mike Boehler]

Can someone explain the XM WX system to me? I don't know if I'm tired or the XM site just sucks, but I don't quite comprehend..

I've already got XM on the boat if that matters, so I assume I purchase the additional marine package. (there are 3 packages I think, which one).

Then I need hardware to display the weather???? Such as my Chartplotter possibly? Or can I buy hardware from them for display?

Thanks,

Mike

[Sterling]

Hey Mike,
I've done a fair amount of work with these systems. You do need the add on package from XM. I've been using the master mariner but there are other options that should be detailed on their site.

Before that, you need to figure out how you want to connect to the signal. If you have a navigation system that has the option to connect to XM, I recommend going that way. Garmin for example offers this integration with XM, and Raymarine w Sirius. If you go that way, you'll need to black box from them (i.e. Garmin or Raymarine) which should come with the wiring and antenna. Most systems have a splitter so you can use one antenna for both radio and weather.

If you don't have a navigation system that integrates you can buy the receiver and processor (A package from a company called wxworx) and connect it to most any PC with a USB connection .I've sold a lot of these systems over the past 4 years but have not dealt with them lately. Side note, the majority of people I dealt with were storm chasers using them in chase vehicles, but a number went to boats as well. Look for a boat show special and you'll find a nice package. Those systems come with an antenna, a processing box, software, wiring and other options as you see fit. I run mine off of a Tablet Computer. You should also consider a USB GPS if you take this route. They are inexpensive and make the whole thing a little more user friendly, not to mention it's a nice backup to your primary GPS.

[Mike Boehler]

Ok, that makes more sense now.

How about the different packages. I think they range from $9.95 to 50 bucks. Any Idea about the differences??

Thanks for the help,

Mike

[mymojo]

Mike, I did the mid-range $29.95/month system for the first time last year and was very happy with it. At first I thought it would be a little gimmicky but turns out I used it quite a bit, and got ahead of at least one storm last year.
My xm is networked into a Garmin series chartplotter.

[Sterling]

The details of each package are listed on this link http://www.wxworx.com/marine/services_pricing.php

I've only ever had the Master Mariner but I get it for free so the price wasn't a factor. I can say that I use it as much, or more, for the weather. The wave heights and wind speeds are very helpful and the nexrad is excellent if you're facing a storm. It really makes a difference when you're sitting in the canyon and there's a storm on the loose or your sitting at the doc wondering what it looks like out there.

[Sterling]

After reading throught the list again, and clicking into the items, I think the "Fisherman" package at $29 will give you most of the important items for off shore fishing. It says the lightining strikes are not included, and that's nice to have but you'll still be way ahead of the game.