dumb VHF question

[gjgm]

I ve just fitted a new dsc radio. In normal VHF (ie, not dcs) use, I adjust the squelch til there is no interference . However, as soon as there is an (incoming ) transmission, it is all but swamped by what sounds the same as unadjusted squelch. I ve adjusted the radio sensitivity setting to low, wondering if i was picking up weak, distant,distorted signals- but that dosnt help. When there is no incoming transmission, all is quiet.. it doesnt seem that I am getting any engine inerference.
Whats up, bcz this isnt much use!

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[Nick_Pam]

How's the reception generally? Have you got a friend who can transmit from close by (or have you got a H/Held you can use) to see how it sounds then.
I would say that either (a) it's much more sensitive than your last one and it has surprised you or (b) maybe the PL259 plug on the end of the aerial lead is not making a secure connection to the socket on the back of the radio...in one case you'll get a lot of reception and a lot of noise (use higher squelch setting) and in the other you'll get no reception and a lot of noise!.
Hope this helps
Nick

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[cliff]

Not so dumb really, better to sort it out before you press the transmit button. VHFs do not like being told to transmit when the antenna is not attached.

First check all connections are clean and secure then listen in on 11 or some other quiet channel. Turn the squelch up until the noise (static) is muted then go to 16 and wait to see if you can pick something up. If not go to say ch77 and have one of you friends (assuming you have such things) and have them call you on 77. If you still have nothing turn the squelch down a bit and try again. Still nothing? connect your emergency antenna (assuming you have one, if not talk to the nearest friendily raggie and see if he will lend you his) to the radio in place of the fixed antenna and try again. if still nothing I suggest you go back to wherever you bought the radio and ask them or alternately read the instruction book - might be something in the trouble shooting section. ( I usually read the book last after I can't get the damn thing to work myself - some of these books are like "War and Peace" )

It does sound to me more like an antenna or antenna cable problem. If it was engine / alternator noise it would change with engine revs.

Whatever you do, do not try to transmit before you sort out the reception problem.

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[Andrew_Fanner]

Consider moving the antenna temporarilyly. May need a friend for this too, hold the twig and try different places. I've ended up with the aerial mounted on a davit, looks a little odd but at least it works properly.

<hr width=100% size=1>Two beers please, my friend is paying.

 

[Oldhand]

You don't have a Glomex RA21 splitter in the antenna cable by any chance? This item causes problems with my installation such that I keep getting a very crackly rendition of IOW police broadcasts when in mid-Solent.

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