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.