VHF reception - why?

NPMR

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We have a Simrad fixed VHF set with a new mast top V-tronix(?) aerial. We also have an Icom handheld that lives in the cockpit.

Recently it dawned on me that I am hearing messages from further away, more clearly, with the handheld when the fixed set is not even squawking. When I turn down the squelch on the fixed set it goes to 'mush' while the handheld is still clear.

Fixed set seems to be clear and transmits OK (haven't called CG for a radio check but club launch picks us up OK all the time etc) but the handheld definitely superior receiving machine.

Any thoughts anyone?
 

fireball

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I would say that the first port of call will be the antenna cable connections - check every one - you've probably got a duff joint in there. If in doubt re-make the joint.

These suggestions of checking the VHF with a mate in the marina only actually checks that your unit transmits and receives - it doesn't check the quality of the signal - far better to check with someone a reasonable (known) distance away.
 

capt_courageous

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Hi
If you can use the antenna from the handheld on the fixed set and vice versa. Hopefully the handheld has a removeable 'rubber duck'and you have some spare cable.That may show if it is an antenna problem as Fireball suggests is very likely.
 
G

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As Fireball says - sounds like a duff connection ...

I do say though that my Handheld .... an old Icom 1990's job Tx / Rx's brilliantly - far better then specs suggest ... and is actually my preferred VHF ...
 

Nick_Pam

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IMHO....blah...blah....

Generally, a faulty aerial will still provide decent reception but fail miserably on transmission, unless it has broken and gone completely open-circuit at radio frequencies.

Faulty cable or joints will generally affect both reception and transmission, but the only ways to test this are to either try a test transmission to a distant station, or briefly transmit to local station both with and without aerial connected (No...a few seconds won't blow the output transistors) and get them to try to "spot the difference"

Faults in the radio itself could cause either poor reception, poor transmission or both.

I'd put my money on a faulty connection or water in the coax cable.
 
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