VHF Radio

[SKIP FJH]

I wanted to try out my new VHF radio. While in my home, I connected everything, hooked up the antenna and connected the power leads to a 12 volt battery located on my work bench. It powered up, scans and appears fine...except there is no volume even when breaking squelch. What am I missing here, what am I doing wrong??? Thanks for your time!

 

[18rabbit]

Re: VHF Radio

I’ve got no idea. Do you have any volume with any of the wx channels? What I am thinking is the lead from the antenna may be too short. Even 3 ft of cable may not be enough, try 5 or 6 feet, or more.

 

[SKIP FJH]

Re: VHF Radio

Thanks 18rabbit but there is no volume at all. I was wondering if it is some type of grounding problem. I tried this with my other radio (that worked in the boat) and I got the same no volume result. I am still puzzled !

 

[Boatist]

Re: VHF Radio

I not sure but you should be able to get volume even with a plain copper wire about 24 inches stuck into the SO259 on the back of the radio. DO NOT transmit with just the wire. <br /><br />Could your antenna coax be shorted where you put your PL259 connector on? In scan mode does the unit lock up on a channel like someone was talking? Is your power in the 12 to 14 volt range? Are You lock inside a metal valt? Is there a Plug in the speaker out jack? Is the volume turned up?

 

[SKIP FJH]

Re: VHF Radio

Thanks Boatist, your reply sent me in the right direction. To make a long story short,my battery gave a good meter reading but then I found a nearly dry cell. An alternate battery made everything work just fine! The 'maintenance free' battery was definitely the culprit!<br /> Thanks again & safe boating !!!