[C320-list] Standard Horizon CMP23 RAM Mic

[dean at vermeire.us]

   Actually, I have a cover over the binnacle and wheel. It just got old.

   On Jun 22, 2020 10:52 PM, Scott Thompson <surprise at thompson87.com>
   wrote:

     This may sound flip, but my advice is that when you replace the
     cable,
     stop leaving it out in the sun. I have an ICOM that connects to the
     pedestal via a watertight connector. I detach it and put it below
     when
     not on the boat. Still looks like new after many years.
     On 6/22/2020 4:07 PM, Dean Vermeire wrote:
     > I am not the only one who has had this problem, but I'd love to
     hear
     > how others solved it.
     >
     > Our 320 (#847, 2001) still has the original VHF radio, a Standard
     > Horizon Intrepid+ fixed-mount VHF with DSC at the nav station and
     the
     > CMP23 RAM mic at the helm.  The coiled cable on the mic at the
     helm
     > has deteriorated with age and sun and is falling apart.
     >
     > Unfortunately, that model is no longer supported.  The new model
     ram
     > mic is not compatible with the Intrepid+ base unit.  Also, the
     > extension cable that runs up through the pedestal is also not
     > compatible with the newer model base unit and ram mic.  So, what
     > should be a $30 cable ends up being $700 to $800 to replace.  The
     > bigger issue is the extension cable and feeding it up through the
     > pedestal, since the old one is zip-tied in.  Alternatively,
     Standard
     > Horizon now has a wireless ram mic.  But (you guessed it), there
     is a
     > wireless access point and its cabling to install (and another
     $200).
     >
     > So, I turn to eBay.  Sorry, no CMP23 ram mics available (although
     I
     > will keep watching).
     >
     > I really do not even need to replace the ram mic.  I can always go
     > down into the cabin, or I can use my handheld VHF radio.  But, I'd
     > like to keep my boat equipped for better waters than the lake on
     > Kansas where it lives right now.
     >
     > So, making a long story short (a little late for that!), I did
     find a
     > new extension cable (CAW23).  My theory is that it is the correct
     > number of wires (8) and proper shielding, etc.  I plan on removing
     the
     > old coiled cable from the handset and connector and wiring in a
     > section from this 10' extension cable.  I lose the curly cable and
     end
     > up with a straight cable, but that seems like the best scenario
     for me.
     >
     > Does anyone have experience with this and have some great advice?
     >
     > Dean Vermeire
     >
     > Moonstruck II (#847)
     >
     --
     Scott Thompson
     Surprise, #653