No RX on 146-174MHz Saber III
Posted: Wed Aug 19, 2009 11:48 pm
Long-time lurker, first time poster at my wit's end.
H43SAK7139CN
Short(non-secure)
Saber III
120 channels
6-watt
146-162MHz
After swapping modules and even batteries between known-good working radios, I've narrowed it down to the VCO(NLD8210A). It transmits fine, but will not receive 98% of the time, even with open squelch, it gives nothing but static. I've used it on marine VHF freq's (156-157MHz range) for years with no problems. Anyone ever seen a VCO responsible for this behavior. I was certain when I began troubleshooting it would be the FDS.
I do have a 136-150 secure Saber III that I attempted swapping VCO's with(long shot, I know), and it(NLD8201A) works up to about 156.900 before the VCO unlock beep starts. On channel 67, 156.875, with the low range VCO in the faulty radio, it works fine TX and RX. Swapping any other single module while leaving the original VCO in gives me no RX again.
The original VCO looks physically fine under the lid. No burnt traces or anything obvious. I have no idea how to test it any further.
Anyone know where I can find a replacement, or have one I can buy off ya? I've considered cannibalizing an eBay Saber I, but has anyone actually done this? Searching fleaBay for NDL8210 unsurprisingly yields nothing. I hate Moto's current lineup for marine VHF use, and really want this radio back working.
H43SAK7139CN
Short(non-secure)
Saber III
120 channels
6-watt
146-162MHz
After swapping modules and even batteries between known-good working radios, I've narrowed it down to the VCO(NLD8210A). It transmits fine, but will not receive 98% of the time, even with open squelch, it gives nothing but static. I've used it on marine VHF freq's (156-157MHz range) for years with no problems. Anyone ever seen a VCO responsible for this behavior. I was certain when I began troubleshooting it would be the FDS.
I do have a 136-150 secure Saber III that I attempted swapping VCO's with(long shot, I know), and it(NLD8201A) works up to about 156.900 before the VCO unlock beep starts. On channel 67, 156.875, with the low range VCO in the faulty radio, it works fine TX and RX. Swapping any other single module while leaving the original VCO in gives me no RX again.
The original VCO looks physically fine under the lid. No burnt traces or anything obvious. I have no idea how to test it any further.
Anyone know where I can find a replacement, or have one I can buy off ya? I've considered cannibalizing an eBay Saber I, but has anyone actually done this? Searching fleaBay for NDL8210 unsurprisingly yields nothing. I hate Moto's current lineup for marine VHF use, and really want this radio back working.