[Icom] Temporary radio installations

Sun, 18 Apr 2004 03:35:18 +0000

Check my message again, Bill.  I point out that
this is  NOT  the cigar lighter socket.  It is a
dedicated power outlet being provided in
many pickup trucks these days.  Yes, it is
a "point" contact, but it is about 1/4" in
diameter and the Radio Shack plug that I
mentioned is more robust than any other
similar plug I have ever seen.

I'll measure the under load voltage at the
plug tomorrow.  Very easy to do since the
connection at the plug (as I said) is binding
post and banana jack.

Again, I  SAID  this was  TEMPORARY.  I ran
out of time to make a full install before I
leave on a trip.  Magnet mount 2m/70cm
antenna on the roof will have to do until
I get time to drill a hole in the roof and do
it properly.  With no place to get the truck
indoors, I have not been too inclined to
do the work out in the cold.

73  ---  Mac, K2GKK/5

----Original Message Follows----
From: "William Lambing" <[email protected]>
Reply-To: [email protected]
To: <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: [Icom] Temporary radio installations
Date: Sat, 17 Apr 2004 20:46:06 -0500

Mac, the other problem that many seem to ignore is the plug itself.  It is a 
point contact with the mating receptacle.  Think this way.  How long would 
you hold (or be able to) hold a plug against the cig lighter without burning 
your fingers from the heat.  Most lighters, unless brand new vehicle 
install, have been used.  For whatever reason.  This deposits "crud" on the 
cig lighter side (and on the lighter).  This "crud" is the equivalent of a 
series resistor (just like the spring in some adapters).  These do have a 
finite IR drop, which generates heat.

Unless you are running less than 25 or 30 watts, I say, #$% the cig lighter 
plug and go direct to the battery.  Less problems this way.

I have seen too darn many guys who run 50-100W and wonder why their 
modulation sounds like hell.  Put it plain and simple.  The radio is seeing, 
maybe at most 10-11V under load.  Most of the current radios in use all but 
"demand" 13.8V at the radio.....period.

I have yet to understand why guys use these stupid little things and then 
complain...some guy said the audio sounded horrible...!!

There are ways to the battery.  If you don't want to take the time to find a 
good solid source of power for the radio, then do not complain because 
someone faults your signal..!

73

Bill, W0LPQ

***Been There....Done That....Seen it....!!

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