Icom Command Mic strange problem

[Scott B]

I've got a strange one that's driving me nuts. Remote wired Icom Command VHF mic at the helm, will cut out every once in a while. If I squeeze the sides of the case it comes back. I don't lose power but lose the sound and the display shows "BUSY". I've replaced the cord last year with no change. I've taken the back off several times and it appears to work fine. Put it back together and it comes and goes.

Any more ideas. Must be a loose connection? but where to look.

 

[Snotter]

Is there any cracking in the cable insulation where the cable enters the microphone? This is what caused my last mic to go belly up.

 

[Ron McCoy]

Get a new mike. These things don't last forever. When you absolutely, positively have to use the VHF, you'll want it to work everytime. They're about $100.

 

[Mulf]

Have you checked that the talk button is not...

... getting stuck in the on position? That would explain the "busy" display. I had a problem where the rubber boot around the talk button got out of place and was keeping the talk button slightly engaged.

 

[Steve Dion]

Scott:

Contact Icom and see if they can test it for you. If it is bad, they may be able to sell you one directly.

 

[Scott B]

Is there any cracking in the cable insulation where the cable enters the microphone? This is what caused my last mic to go belly up.

No, replaced the entire cable last year from Icom.

... getting stuck in the on position? That would explain the "busy" display. I had a problem where the rubber boot around the talk button got out of place and was keeping the talk button slightly engaged.

That might make sense. Didn't try to take the rubber boot apart and the PTT button to see what was going on. Not 100% sure if it's actually transmitting or cutting out. I might try turning on the handheld to see what is happening. If it is interfering with transmissions it will be replaced.

Get a new mike. These things don't last forever. When you absolutely, positively have to use the VHF, you'll want it to work everytime. They're about $100.

They're $135 up here, plus taxes and shipping or drive an hour somewhere to get one, would be close to $ 160- 170. That said, if I don't solve it soon, it's not worth the risk of needing it to work NOW.

Scott:

Contact Icom and see if they can test it for you. If it is bad, they may be able to sell you one directly.

thought of that too, but Icom Canada is in BC, so shipping there and back plus costs etc. is probably close to new.