vhf radio


rpm605

rpm605

Member
Just installed a West Marine VHF585 and Shakespeare 5206 antenna. All the connections are tight and secure. the weather channel comes in loud and clear and I get intermittent bits of radio chatter on 9 and 16. However, I can't seem to send and receive at all. Tried testing it with the automated test from seatow and tested with my neighboring boater friend. Where should I start looking? Do I need an MMSI number to use a simple VHF radio? I don't have a GPS, so will an MMSI number still work for me? Also, what is the icon in the upper right corner of the photo? Nothing in the manual that shows it. Sorry that the photo is rotated, I can't get it to straighten up. The icon is to the upper right of the 27

IMG_1349.jpg
 
Last edited:
Don't know a lot about your particular radio, but here is what I do know. Usually the radio has an internal GPS, you should be able to select it in options. I'd still do the MMSI thing...you never know.
When you key your mike, does the transmit light come on? Did you just have to connect the coax for the antenna, or did you have to put on the connector? If you put on the connector, that would be the first place I'd check. You might also try checking the resistance from one end of the coax, to the other. Check both the center wire, and the outer shield. Resistance should be about the same. I can't really make out the icon that you are talking about.
Hope this helps.
 
That symbol is GPS lock. You either have a model that has internal GPS built in or you have it connected to your NMEA 2000/0183 network/MFD for GPS coordinates. Check your manual you may be able to toggle a button to get LON-LAT on the screen.

As far as a transmit check, quick and dirty...get yourself one of those volt ticks (proximity voltage tester) and hold it at your antenna or follow the cable to the VHF antenna connector while transmitting intermittently. Home Depot has a Klein that is good to have in your tool box anyway. Radio Frequency (RF) is strong when it works correctly so start with the tester out about 8-10" away and work your way closer. If your VHF is transmitting you'll know it.

Do a few short keys of the mic with the VHF on low power first. Don't hold it too long. If you have an open antenna or bad connector/cable you will damage the radio without a load if the unit is transmitting for too long.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Klein-Tools-Non-Contact-Voltage-Tester-NCVT-1SEN/100661787

Good luck
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top