Merlin Emrys <memrys_at_telecomreseller.com> wrote [edited]: >> Just received my new Icom M1-V -- looks like a terrific unit. After perusing the manual several times, fighting off the urge to just go to sleep <grin>, I still have a few questions. Is the scanning function of any practical use? If so, what USA channels should be included? And which type of scan (priority or normal) is best? Any suggestions about dual and tri-watch? Finally, lacking radio-equipped kayaking buddies, what's the best way to test and practice? >> Can't address the other questions, but some thoughts about: Scan: only very useful if you want to pick up on transmissions of other boats, and you do not know what freq they are using. Could be important if you need help, and want to hail someone in the vicinity who is using a non-hailing channel for their own VHF communication. I think priority scan hits 16 alternating with the other choices, and it would be my choice, so I did not miss an emergency call on 16. Dual- and tri-watch: depends on your needs. I use Dual quite a bit: 16 and 13 (local channel for freighter/barge traffic). Could be you might want to Tri 16, 9 (hailing in some area), and the channel you plan to broadcast on (or, the barge/freighter channel). YMMV. Test and practice: find a cooperative power (or sail) boater while on the water and do it that way. A little testing at home is OK, but any use off the water is strictly illegal, so minimize it. Also, as Steve H says, asking for a radio check on 16 is a no-no, but if you are wondering if your radio is working, sidle up to a larger vessel and pre-arrange a contact on a different working channel, or hail them on 16, and then switch to another. If you hail the vessel by name, you are much more likely to get a response than something like, "white power boat off Elvira Point, can you check my radio?" -- Dave Kruger Astoria, OR *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Mon Sep 23 2002 - 09:18:53 PDT
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