Loss of receive unless I switch TX to unused antenna port

Patrick W9PDS

Hello, I opened a ticket with this issue today. Posting here to see if anyone has come across this issue:

Flex 6700, Software 3.2.29. Windows 10 or Maestro (happens on either interface)

I only have one antenna currently plugged into ANT1. I noticed particularly bad receive performance today but had no problem transmitting with low SWR. After messing around with the radio for a while, I discovered that if I switch the TX to ANT2 while keeping ANT1 selected with RX, I get full RX performance back.

THERE IS CURRENTLY NO ANTENNA CONNECTED TO ANT2 AT ALL.

I have attached screenshots of the difference.

Things I have tried:

-Factory reset

-Recreated the issue with Maestro, not just SmartSDR.

-I moved my antenna to ANT2 port. Then the problem happens in reverse. I cannot get good receive performance unless TX is selected on ANT1.

John WA7UAR

I have experienced something similar. But I think the explanation is how the RX Ant 1 is getting it’s RF pre-amplifier set higher when the TX is switched to another (in this case unused) antenna.

Please check your slice’s RF pre-amplifier setting to see if you can make it higher and amplify the signals you are receiving on Ant 1.

Patrick W9PDS

Hi John, yes this doesnt seem to be helping. The ANT1 jack is completely dead, even with RF Gain all the way up, unless I turn TX to the unused port. IT must be something gone wrong with the relay circuit...

Mike-VA3MW

If a reset of the radio does not resolve your issue, it sounds like you have a hardware issue with the radio.

You will need to open a support ticket. If you do, please include your screen shots as they are very helpful.

https://helpdesk.flexradio.com/hc/en-us/articles/202118688-How-to-Submit-a-Request-for-Technical-Support

Patrick W9PDS

Hi Mike, I did open one yesterday with the screenshots. I'm waiting for a reply from someone. Thanks!