Wouxun KG-905G Reception vs. Old “Ham” H/T

[Over2U]

My old H/T “Ham” Radio (Wouxun KG-UV3D) exhibits better receiver sensitivity on GMRS frequencies than my new Wouxun KG-905G (which is dedicated to GMRS). I am a bit surprised but, then again, the Ham radio cost 150 in 2013 dollars…

[mbrun]

I am genuinely curious how are you comparing the two? Subjective while using? Using a signal generator wired direct to both units? What is the signal source? Are you using antennas? If using antennas, are you using the exact same antenna with each radio in exactly the same spot using the exactly the same signal source? With or without PLs? Squelch at minimum on each radio?

When I am doing basic sensitivity comparisons of my radios I am using an FM signal generator wired directly to the radios so that I can objectively compare models. Just recently acquired an HP distortion analyzer so that I can confirm sensitivity against the rated SINAD value rather than relying on when the radios open squelch at the lowest setting.


Michael
WRHS965
KE8PLM

[Over2U]

12 hours ago, mbrun said:

Good questions, please see my answers below:

 

What is the signal source?
  My signal generators are the Housekeepers making radio calls while working at the hotels about 1/2 mile from my house.
 

Are you using antennas? If using antennas, are you using the exact same antenna with each radio in exactly the same spot using the exactly the same signal source?

  I have both radios side-by-side on my test bench (AKA: kitchen table). Antennas are similar and I get the same result even when I swap them.
 

With or without PLs? Squelch at minimum on each radio?

  No PL and I have the GMRS Radio squelch set at minimum (1) and the ‘Ham’ radio closer to ‘mid’ (3 or 4).

Result: When the ‘Ham’ Radio picks up a conversation the GMRS Radio is either silent or so noisy with static as to be unreadable.

 

[gman1971]

10 hours ago, mbrun said:

Just recently acquired an HP distortion analyzer so that I can confirm sensitivity against the rated SINAD value rather than relying on when the radios open squelch at the lowest setting.
 

Nice, looks like it has a SINADDER built in then. Which model?

[mbrun]

@Over2U it sure sounds like you are experiencing differences between the two. I do own the 905 but not the UV3D and do find the 905 to be on par with the other Wouxun models in my possession. Yeh, the vary some but not by a lot. Most break squelch between -124dBm and -118dBm.

@gman1971 I acquired a HP-339A.


Michael
WRHS965
KE8PLM