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Icom IC-R6 antenna for DFES

Posted: Fri Feb 03, 2023 2:23 pm
by silent_wingz
Hi all, not sure if anyone still uses this forum however looking for some scanner related advice and I remember there were some super knowledgeable members here.
I have recently purchased an Icom IC-R6 handheld primarily with the intention of listening in to DFES (this is where someone will probably tell me I have bought the wrong one!). I have found the handy frequency lists published on this forum and have got some programmed in.
I believe the issue that I am having is due to weak signal. I hear the transmissions via the Canning Mills frequency fairly clearly when in the East facing part of my house near the window however if I move out of that room it's either very garbled or it doesn't pick it up at all. I am in Baldivis so would have thought the Jarrahdale frequency would be strongest but strangely I don't receive anything on that at all - must just be due to topography I guess.

To try to get better use out of the handheld I wondered if anyone could recommend a better antenna for the Icom IC-R6 for DFES band. Happy to buy online or in store locally but I'm having trouble identifying one suitable.

Thanks!

Re: Icom IC-R6 antenna for DFES

Posted: Fri Feb 03, 2023 3:20 pm
by yorky
Handhelds are often poor in receiving if you are far away from the transmitter. A more suitable antenna may help you, however if you are barely getting anything, it still might not be good enough unfortunately.

Put Pinjarra 217 in as well in case you are in better line of sight with that.

Re: Icom IC-R6 antenna for DFES

Posted: Fri Feb 03, 2023 4:06 pm
by silent_wingz
Thanks for the reply yorky. I should have mentioned I did try 217 Pinjarra also but that is dead too, like Jarrahdale. So the only one I have had any success with is 371 Canning Mills, and even that is only in part of the house.

That's ok - I suspected that might be the case. I'll keep persevering. I have been using the live stream too on this site which has been helpful.

Re: Icom IC-R6 antenna for DFES

Posted: Tue Feb 14, 2023 12:08 pm
by JhG123
I get both 220 and 217 from the north Mandurah area on my handhelds with stock antennas, maybe it's your radio itself.