SSB + VHF + DSC + GPS

(Click on picture for full size)

Although SSB Radio installation should be performed by those with expertise and training, it is not complicated, just a little complex, and can be done by non-technical yacht owners who follow the instructions, etc. These photos aren't the greatest, but should give a basic overview. I secured my Icom M802 SSB, using its mounting bracket, directly to the Nav Station shelf which formerly was used for the factory installed 13" TV/VCR (having removed the TV and its slide-out bracket). I had a countertop company cut out a piece of solid surface countertop (imitation Corean), to fit the space and all of my equipment to be mounted to it. This forms a new Nav Station panel.

In this new panel, are flush-mounted the following:
- Icom M802 Control Head
- Icom SP-24 Speaker
- Icom M602 VHF
- 2 Diawa RF
- Power/SWR Meters (one for the SSB and one for the VHF)

I further surface-mounted a Garmin GPS 76, handheld GPS, powered from ships power and wired to both radios (and now an AIS receiver as well), to provide a dedicated (separate from the Raymarine GPS) source of position / time data, via a NEMA connection.

I used a simple 90 degree turning key-lock / latch, just like the other Nav Station panels use, to allow easy access, etc. and a stainless piano hinge along the bottom of the new panel. (I also added varnished teal 1/4 round trim on 3 sides.)

The M802 is powered directly from the house battery bank, using some spare 2ga wire (overkill, but it was spare wire that I put to use), attached to terminal posts at the upper end of the Nav Station (inside this new "radio" section), and then just a short (16") length of the Icom power cord, plugs into the M802.

Although I have the power/swr meters, they are just for my use and NOT a necessity. As a longtime Ham, I like "see" what's going on with my radios. Certainly not for everyone.

Backstay Insulator (with padded cover removed)