View Full Version : Icom IC-703
kg4llq
06-14-2006, 12:24 AM
I've seen where the Icom 703 has a bias adjustment issue causing the PA to become damaged. #My question is this. #I own an IC-703 (older non-6 meter version). #I have consistently powered it by a 7 AH 12 volt battery. #It's always worked fine. #Now I want to install it in my truck which will pump up to 13.8 volts into it. #Will I have a potential problem with this higher input voltage when compared to my battery source?
Your answer(s) please.
73, Ken - KG4LLQ
w8cbc
06-14-2006, 05:40 AM
I don't know the 703 but I've had final-bias problems in other gear due to bad solder joints.
With that said, I rather doubt the difference between 12 and 13.8 volts will trigger a meltdown. Just make sure you fuse the DC input for whatever current the 703 is rated to draw. If it starts popping fuses on transmit, you'll know you have a problem before the finals go bad.
---edit---
BTW - if it's a lead-acid UPS brick you've powered it with, those should be 13.8 volts at full charge anyway. I use 'em in parallel with my DC supply to smoothe things out.
My IC-703 croaked at 12.8 volts from a 12 volt 12ah battery. I don't know that going up to 13.8 will make it happen any faster.