Hi, I purchased a while ago a VOX PTT Cable and an ICOM HT Cable, with the goal of using APRS on my ID-52A Plus. However, whenever the cable is plugged in the radio immediately starts to transmit, and will stop if the cable is unplugged. This happens even if the other end is left disconnected, and it happens regardless of whether the cable was plugged in with the radio already on, or before turning it on. Worth noting that if I only plug the HT cable (leaving the VOX PTT one disconnected), nothing happens. I’ve also verified the same behavior happens when interposing an OPC-2144 breakout cable. Finally, I was able to reproduce the same issue on an IC-705 as well.
Searching the forum I’ve found Unusual PTT behavior which seems to describe a similar issue. Please let me know if there’s anything I can to do help troubleshoot this further. Thanks!
WOW! I am sorry you are experiencing the same issue as me. I am glad you were able to find my post. Unfortunately, I do not have a solution. The creator of the DigiRig offered to test my unit, after I shipped it to him. I did not take him up on that offer as I became busy with other tasks, did a fair amount of my own testing and just felt stupid for not using the item after purchasing it. Like my post said, maybe I never had a need for it, at that time. I do now, however.
I wish I had better news for you. I tried this unit on Baofengs, Kenwoods and my ID-52A, using all the sets of appropriate cables. I experienced the same issues as you. Maybe the creator will offer to test yours?
I hope you have a great day and if you need anything, that I can help with, please let me know.
These are likely unrelated issues since the interface models in posts are different (VOX PTT vs Digirig Mobile). Looking at the potential cause of the issue with VOX PTT cable, it can be related to the specifics of the ICOM HTs sharing the same line for audio in and PTT and having particularly touchy PTT line:
In the next batch of VOX cables I’ll look into adding a decoupling capacitor on the transceiver side of the mic line to work around this issue. For now if you don’t have use for the cable with other transceiver models, feel free to reach out via the contact form to arrange a return/refund.
Thanks for the detailed explanation! I’m glad there’s a plan to sort this out for future versions. Unfortunately I don’t really have any other radios I could use this with, so I’ve just sent in the contact form for a return as suggested.
