The Marine Electrical and Electronics Bible

I was impressed with the high regard placed on the need for quality and intregrety of electrical/electronic equipment and systems. In particular the emphasis placed on using proper types of batteries, and their maintenance.

Sound equipment, installation, and maintenance were highly encouraged by the author throughout this book.

This book diffinently belongs in my technical library.


Essential Information for the Yachtsman   July 28, 2000
 25 out of 25 found this review helpful

I'm and Electrical Engineer and FCC licensed for radio and radar operation and repair. I read the book expecting to be disappointed--I now use it as my main reference.

The subject is complicated, but Payne keeps things simple, clear and concise--well suited for the layman and the expert. The appropriate references--everything you need is included in the book.

If you plan to maintain, or upgrade your yachts electrical system yourself, in whole or in part, this the book you want.

Read it once a year because you will not be able to digest and retain it all in one reading.


Immensely practical and easy-to-follow   October 26, 1998
 13 out of 15 found this review helpful

"The Marine Electrical and Electronics Bible" is an immensely-practical and easy-to-follow reference for sailors and powerboaters. John C. Payne's 1998 edition has been expanded to cover email services and system components; Web addresses for nautical books, magazines, software, and charts; new training and simulator software written for laptops; GMDSS Distress Call (Alert) Sequence; and current radio frequencies. In the Foreword, Payne writes: "If you wish to keep your boat healthy and safe you must have an electrical system based on sound principles." He goes on to give the essentials of those systems--everything from Batteries and DC Electrical Equipment to Radar and Entertainment Systems. Each chapter has concise instructions, simple illustrations, and easy-to-read printing. And the occasional set of equations is presented with plenty of white space. In the back of the book, there is not only a fine index, but a list of addresses of marine electrical suppliers in the U.S., United Kingdom, and Australia. Kudos to Payne and Sheridan House for publishing a new edition of this classic reference.


Clearly written, complete and a focus on simplicity   February 14, 1998
 4 out of 4 found this review helpful

I really enjoy reading this book as it is just what is required when speccing out a boat. In particular the focus on keeping things as simple as possible is helpful as well as giving one the names of supliers and products that really reflect best practice. Every yachtowner with a technical interest should have it. If only more builders had read it as well!