Using the V16 VHF COM Radio with an Audio Panel

Using the V16 VHF COM Radio with an Audio Panel

The V16 VHF radio is a great companion with audio panels and external intercoms alike. When installing a V16 radio with the intention of using it behind an audio panel or intercom, it is important to properly configure the V16's settings for optimal performance. 

Installation:

When installing a V16 radio behind an audio device, utilize the Pilot Microphone, PTT and Headset Audio wires. Leave the co-pilot connections open. 

The V16 has an "aux audio" input channel that is best described as an "unmuted input" used for things like EFIS alert audio or external autopilot alert audio. While it is technically possible to utilize this channel to pass audio from an alert source into your audio panel, it is not recommended to do so as switching away from the COM radio input that the V16 is hooked up to will mute this audio channel. Instead, utilize the alert audio input channels of your intercom/audio panel. If you are out of inputs, use mixing resistors.

Configuration:

One of the most important settings for good performance with the V16 is the microphone input gain setting. Since audio panels contain internal amplifiers, it is likely that you can expect to set the gain to a considerably low negative value, whereas installers utilizing the built-in intercom of the V16 would expect to have a positive gain setting.

A list of recommended starting settings are below:

VOX Level: Disabled (accomplished by the "Intercom Switch" setting below)
Pilot Mic Gain: -5db
Co-Pilot Mic Gain: -20db
AUX Input: Off
AUX Mute Level: Off
TX Audio: No VOX
Intercom Switch: Is Mic

All other settings can be adjusted based on personal preference as per the V16 installation manual.
    • Related Articles

    • MGL V16 Com Radio Connection to iBox (iEFIS system)

      To connect an MGL Avionics V16 radio to the iBox for remote control and remote frequency selection, please use this example schematic below (setups at bottom of page). Notes: Use iBox RS-232 channels 3, 4 or 5 (save channels 1 and 2 for high speed ...
    • MGL V6 and V10 Com Radio Connection to iBox (iEFIS system)

      To connect an MGL Avionics V6 or V10 radio to the iBox for remote control and remote frequency selection, please use this example schematic below (setups at bottom of page). Notes: Use iBox RS-232 channels 3, 4 or 5 (save channels 1 and 2 for high ...
    • V6 Com Radio Setup and Quick Reference

      Here are the steps to setup the V6 Com radio and adjust the settings:  Step 1: Adjust volume until you can receive a radio station clearly Step 2: Set the MIC level (while talking into the mic) until bar graph goes 2/3 of the way across the range  ...
    • Setting up an MGL V16 with an audio Panel

      There are some common issues our customers run into when hooking the V16 up to an audio panel. This video will explain some of these common pitfalls and how to overcome them.
    • Vega COM/NAV Control Head Manual

      Attached is the manual for the Vega 2 1/4" Controller for MGL Avionics VHF Com and Nav radio transceivers