PRO-197 ATT operation backwards

[Intellifax]

On my PRO-197, The ATT setting is backwards on some conventional VHF objects. So far I've only noticed it on about 3 objects. Either scanning or manual, the signal meter shows a large signal on those objects if the ATT is off, but the signal is actually very, very weak, like the attenuator is actually on. It's OK on other objects. To receive that object (getting used to used to the object/frequency/channel language...), I have to turn on the ATT, the big A now appears at the top, the signal meter then operates normally, object comes in loud and clear.

I've reloaded the scanner via both WIN500 and ARC500, using clean files that worked OK before. I'm sure its not the software. I've pulled the power and let it set overnight. I've done both types of resets (Global Parameters and Factory Defaults) and reloaded using a clean file. Still does it.

It previously worked fine on these objects, now its not. The problem could be worked around by setting the ATT for these objects, but that wouldn't cure the problem. Any ideas on what else I could check? TIA

 

[ka3jjz]

You may be noticing the effects of desense, something that is quite common with the GRE made RS scanners. 73 Mike

 

[crippledchicken]

I agree, I had that problem on an old pro-2037 base with only, my weather station. ATT. turned off it would just scan the weather stations real fast and not stop. turn it on, and the station would pop right in.

 

[RoninJoliet]

I just posted this type of info on a previous post as Radio Shack products must be evaluated per VHF channel upon should i use the "ATTEN" or not...UHF, 700, 800 usually take care of themselves...If i have the scanner on a outside antenna the 5-10 mile away stations should be "A", those very close you may get by....Been listening for many years, just bought the RS197, it decodes the IL-Starcom 700/800 digital just excellent but on the outside antenna i must use on VHF the "A"...The Uniden products are a totally different story, you "ATTEN" them and you loose....Some times living near a alien tower or not, you still see the "S"ignal meter full strength from some type of "overload" not "intermod"....