Squelch Problem with 8200 Mark 3B?

[racin06]

When scanning VHF aircraft frequencies, I notice that I have to turn the squelch knob to the 3 or 4 o'clock position to scan. This seems too far IMO. Also, I am assuming that I may be missing out on weaker transmissions with the squelch in this position. Do I have a problem with the squelch or is there a solution? Thanks.

 

[n4voxgill]

It probably has more to do with the mode being AM than a problem. I have adjusted my MK3 for air and leave it that way. I doubt if you are missing very much.

gill

 

[racin06]

I believe I solved the squelch issue. I lowered the telescopic antenna (I had the antenna fully extended) two sections and now things are working well. I do have a question though. Should I have to be adjusting the telescopic antenna in order to scan properly? Also, if so, is this because the AOR is very sensitive and the antenna fully extended is causing the receiver to overload with other signals or interference? I'm not a radio expert, so please tolerate my questions. Thanks.

 

[n4voxgill]

I pull mine out as far as I can for the location. Some places I can fully extend it and some places only have 12 inches. I firmly beleive that in receiving the longer works better. Wave length is very important when transmitting, but we are just listening.

When you get a chance you can try scanning aircraft with a short antenna and you will be surprised that you will hear most of them. In fact at almost frequency, when you are hearing a station good, trying shortning and lenghting the antenna.

It is much different when you get below 100 MHz, go for long.

 

[rmosier]

AIR band squelch issue

You could trya a notch filter. It would block a great deal of the unwanted noise. Also since you are listening to AM, do you have your noise limiter turned on?