IC-2820H and UTC-123 GPS Antenna Questions

[DASHPILOT79]

I was wondering if any one here has the UTC-123 Mod for the IC-2820H and if they could tell me what type of Connector the GPS Antenna has since it doesn't appear to be anywhere else as I wanted to replace it with a Waterproof Antenna plus I need more Distance from the cable.

Thank You,
Casey

[K0BG]

I'm surprised no one has answered you.

The GPS module is a UT-123, not a UTC-123. The manual for the module can be downloaded from Icom.

I'm not sure about the Icom, but I believe it is nothing more than a 3.5 mm plug. At least that's what it looks like in the photos. Most others use either an SMA or TNC connector.

As for the weatherproofing... The antenna is designed to be outside the vehicle, so I can't imagine it to be anything but weatherproof.

As for the additional length.... I suspect that's okay with in reason. Remember, we're talking fairly high frequencies, and small coax. Read that as lossy. Get the loss too high, and you won't be able to lock onto the GPS sats.

[KC9ONY]

Casey,
I believe it is an MCX connector.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MCX_connector
Due to the design of the radio, it will have to be a straight plug, as it is inset a little. There might only
be a few connectors like that, though I haven't had to replace mine yet.

I've never purchased anything from this company, but had saved this page as a reference that someone
else had used to buy an extension cable:
https://www.cdint.com/catalog/model/MCMCJ-316-1
MCMCJ-316-1.jpg
Alan,
The GPS antenna is not waterproof, as indicated on page IV of the 2820H manual. I don't know what
they were thinking when they sold that with the radio. I do know of someone that had it mounted on
the top of their car for the last few years and it was working. However, last I heard, he said it wasn't
working and when I pointed out the statement in the manual, he was as perplexed as I was. The exact
statement in the manual is:
"The GPS antenna is not weather-proof construction, therefore, NEVER install the antenna in outdoor."

73,
Tom KC9ONY

[K0BG]

No doubt you're correct, Tom.

This is just one more example of poor design standards throughout the amateur marketplace. Makes one wonder who made the decision?