[ICOM] 756 ProII low power

[D C *Mac* Macdonald]

I have never checked my Icom marine VHF radios
for power out at lowered voltage.  I can see the reason
for such a design, though.  VHF/FM Marine radios are a
SAFETY item, often called upon to summon help when
a vessel is disabled.  This frequently means that the
engine has quit and batteries are on their way down.

I don't believe that Icom's current Marine offerings
are certified for SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea), but
I expect, though, that Icom uses most of those specs
and standards as goals for its general marine product
line

The test magazine "Powerboat Reports" (ceased its
publication last May) and "Practical Sailor" frequently
tested VHF/FM Marine radios and part of their testing
WAS for operation at low voltages.

73 - Mac, K2GKK/5
Oklahoma City, OK





> From: mike-2007 at elp.rr.com
> To: icom at mailman.qth.net
> Subject: RE: [ICOM] 756 ProII low power
> Date: Sun, 24 Feb 2008 09:58:57 -0700
>
>
> If I were you, I would really Really REALLY make an effort to check the DC power
> internal to the radio. That is such a VERY common problem, with the exact
> symptoms you describe. Yeah - I know it is a pain to do it. Those MOLEX
> connectors spread a bit, and work fine under no load, but pack it in when the
> current rises. And it doesn't take a lot to make the radio react.
>
> Long ago (30+ years) ICOM sold a VHF MARINE radio that was rated for full output
> with 10.5 VDC input. I always thought that was a great idea. They should do
> that with Amateur equipment too. My 706 is so sensitive.....
>
> Mike - KD9KC.
> El Paso, Tx.
> DM61rt