TEST - VHF Signal Strength

[Chasin_Tail]

Is there a place to go to test the transmit & receive signal strength of my VHF radio? My CC T-Top is about 8 feet off the water and I have an 8’ 9” antenna. So line of sight in open water I should be able to send and receive around 25 -35 miles (considering wind direction and speed, electrical energy in the clouds etc..), correct at 25W?

When ever I do a radio check I get the guys with in my immediate vicinity to respond. Don’t get me wrong, I’m thankful they do… This is great when you have trouble in a crowd or with boats near by.

I’m concerned about being offshore alone…

I have seen a meter at boater’s world but its 50 bucks. Is this my only option?

[cdail28590]

I'd be interested in hearing the outcome to this. I did a radio check to the coast guard and of course they got me but, I had trouble trying to call some boats that where 15-20 miles away. I wasn't sure if I had a problem or not.
At least I know I can get the coast guard, but they have enough power to pick me way further than I will go.

[BTH284]

I always do multiple radio checks (up to 3) when I put the boat in the water. Each check on different channels. Standard quest radio, 8' Digital antenna, on top of the T top about 6' off the deck.

I know that mine transmits and recieves clearly to 14 miles. Example was drumming last summer at "X" shoal, I had a guy comeback to me about his catch with his son that night. He gave me his position. I plugged it into the GPS and it said 14 miles. Was ptly cloudy evening and the NE wind was kicking! Last time offshore a I was a bit North of the BR and had a Capt come back to me at the Rockpiles in front of the point out in front of Buxton.

You would be surprised who can hear you transmit but you will not be able to hear them back.