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Temporary HAM/CB radio install

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by MainerPrius, May 10, 2011.

  1. MainerPrius

    MainerPrius Junior Member

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    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
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    I wanted to figure out how to temporarily install a small AM/SSB rig in my commuter car, 2010 Prius. Pictures speak many more words:

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    Power is from the arm rest storage cubby, an in line filter with a standard Cobra/Uniden 3 prong cord, and just using a mag mount Wilson 1000 antenna, the radio is a TRC 465 CB.

    There's noise from the hybrid engine when you brake, but tolerable, otherwise, it's pretty quiet. No major hiss or white noise from the hybrid system.

    I'm happy with it.

    Greg
     
    #1 MainerPrius, May 10, 2011
  2. Mark57

    Mark57 2021 Tesla Model 3 LR AWD

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    Nice write up and creative mount. Do you notice any heat from the rig on your leg?
     
    #2 Mark57, May 11, 2011
    1 person likes this.
  3. MainerPrius

    MainerPrius Junior Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
    SW Maine Coast
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
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    Thanks! No, none really, my leg doesn't touch the radio much, if at all.
    It's only a 4 watt am/12watt ssb radio so it's not working too hard. One thing I'll be changing, is running power directly off the battery. Shutting down car also kills 12v aux port, aaaaarrgggg.

    Take care

    Greg
     
    #3 MainerPrius, May 11, 2011
  4. jdenenberg

    jdenenberg EE Professor

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    Be careful when running the radio with the Prius off. The 12v battery has limited capacity (about 30 ah when new) and your system can drain it in a few hours. Keep a voltmeter on the battery and put your Prius in "ready" mode if it gets down to near 12 volts.

    JeffD
     
    #4 jdenenberg, May 12, 2011
  5. MainerPrius

    MainerPrius Junior Member

    Joined:
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    Location:
    SW Maine Coast
    Vehicle:
    2010 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    Thanks Jeff for the tip. I rarely use it more than 10-15 minutes at a time, and most of the time I am driving and using the CB. I'll be considering a new battery by fall/winter '11 and might upgrade to an Optima battery, I've heard good things about them.

    Take care

    Greg
     
    #5 MainerPrius, May 13, 2011
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