Asrto Spectra HHCH Conversion
Posted: Tue Sep 04, 2007 6:22 am
After doing a search, I found some information, but not exactly what I need to know.
If possible, I am considering converting an Astro Spectra with an W5 head to a W3, HHCH. I can choose between two radios to do this with. One is a mid-power dash mount and the other is a high power trunk mount.
I understand that I need to change the interface board, regardless which radio I select, to accomodate the W3 head.
Now, it appears that the dash mount W3 interface board kit, HLN6459 is around $80 retail from MOL. The trunk mount W3 interconnect board kit, HLN6574, is around $220 retail. Does anyone know the reason for significant difference in price -- other than that is just the way MOL prices them? Can the cheaper board be used in the trunk mount?
If I go the dash mount conversion route, I understand that I must do the usual thing of putting a remote mount front plate on the radio, etc. Does the HHCH "Y" cable, HKN6096, work with this configuration as well as the trunk mount?
Finally, do I need to put a W3 codeplug in the radio or will the change in interface boards handle the W3 without this?
Thanks for any comments and suggestions.
Fred Bray
W6WAW
If possible, I am considering converting an Astro Spectra with an W5 head to a W3, HHCH. I can choose between two radios to do this with. One is a mid-power dash mount and the other is a high power trunk mount.
I understand that I need to change the interface board, regardless which radio I select, to accomodate the W3 head.
Now, it appears that the dash mount W3 interface board kit, HLN6459 is around $80 retail from MOL. The trunk mount W3 interconnect board kit, HLN6574, is around $220 retail. Does anyone know the reason for significant difference in price -- other than that is just the way MOL prices them? Can the cheaper board be used in the trunk mount?
If I go the dash mount conversion route, I understand that I must do the usual thing of putting a remote mount front plate on the radio, etc. Does the HHCH "Y" cable, HKN6096, work with this configuration as well as the trunk mount?
Finally, do I need to put a W3 codeplug in the radio or will the change in interface boards handle the W3 without this?
Thanks for any comments and suggestions.
Fred Bray
W6WAW