My QMX + kit was working well for some weeks -- until two days ago, when a power-on yielded mute audio.
Several on and off cycles seemed to fix it, and I blissfully (and foolishly)? presumed it was just a passing anomaly.
But the symptoms arose a few more times and a search of the forums produced a flood of queries, which kept pointing at a flawed PCM1804, the IC that controls audio.
The malfunctions continued off and on without warning.
Research reveals that Texas Instruments is aware of its failure rates and no longer recommends using it. TI has replaced it with another IC.
Thus the dilemma -- what's the point of replacing a faulty PCM1804 if even its manufacturer has no confidence in it??
I love this rig (when it's working), but I don't plan on using it on POTA or other portable ops until this intermittent, unpredictable failure is resolved and I can depend on it.
In addition to no audio, the glitch also presents a very loud blast of sound that defies description.
I attach a brief video with sound here to demonstrate its characteristics.
What is the current best thinking and practice on how to deal with this ?
Are there any plans to replace the PCM1804 in a redesign of the QMX+ ?
Thanks for indulging me. 73.
- Bill W3WJ
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