Auto Retracto Antenae

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Mar 31, 2008 | 03:34 PM
  #1  
For years (6) that I have owned my SC I could not figure out why I needed to have the antenae at full staff when listening to a CD. I found out recently from one of the Lexus tech guys that it goes up half staff for AM and full staff for FM.

Last month I noticed now it stays flush for CD and Tape and goes up when FM is engaged.

Anyone else notice this or is mine the Hybrid ?

FALCON 1
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Mar 31, 2008 | 04:05 PM
  #2  
If you have the RDS on, the antenna is always up. If you turn the RDS off (Press and hold the RDS button), the antenna will only be up when you're listening to AM/FM; it'll be down if you're listening to a CD, tape, or aux input (via one of VaisTech modules).
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Mar 31, 2008 | 05:52 PM
  #3  
And its not always full staff for FM. The length is dependant on the frequency you are listening to in order to achieve maximum reception.
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Mar 31, 2008 | 05:59 PM
  #4  
what is RDS?
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Mar 31, 2008 | 06:09 PM
  #5  
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radio_Data_System

Quote:
Radio Data System, or RDS, is a standard from the European Broadcasting Union for sending small amounts of digital information using conventional FM radio broadcasts. The RDS system standardises several types of information transmitted, including time, track/artist info and station identification. RDS has been standard in Europe and Latin America since the early 1990s, but less so in North America.

Radio Broadcast Data System is the official name used for the U.S. version of RDS, though the "RDS" name seems to be at least as common in usage. The two standards are nearly identical, with only slight differences, mainly in which numbers are assigned to each of 31 musical and other program formats the RBDS system can identify. RBDS was approved by the NRSC, RDS by the EBU.

Both use a 57kHz subcarrier to carry data at 1187.5 bits per second. The 57 kHz was chosen for being the third harmonic (3×) of the pilot tone for FM stereo, so it would not cause interference or intermodulation with it, or with the stereo difference signal at 38 kHz (2×). The data format utilises error correction. RDS defines many features (see below), including how private (in-house) or other undefined features (such as differential GPS) can be "packaged" in unused program groups.
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Apr 6, 2008 | 08:39 PM
  #6  
Well, I learn something new each and every time I am on this forum.

I never touch the RDS button but someone must have...............even the tech did not know that one...................

Great Intel.

FALCON 1
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Apr 7, 2008 | 11:03 AM
  #7  
So that is the sound I am hearing

I have been wondering what that solenoid sounding noise was when I changed stations on my radio. So it is the antenna adjusting to the frequency, wow what a lot of gadgets in this car! This might also explain why some local FM stations sound better in my driveway in our LS430 than with this car. Maybe I had the RDS turned off that day in one of the cars.




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Apr 15, 2008 | 02:14 PM
  #8  
Adjusting - what about maintenance
I'd read where the antenna adjusts each time you change the channel (on FM) and it's true. Amazing. So how about maintenance, as we're obviously really using the motor.

I am pretty sure that sticky lubs like WD-40 are not recommended, as the dirt and dust will just stick to it. What is the recommended maintenance by our experts?

Thanks,
Jerry
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Apr 15, 2008 | 02:19 PM
  #9  
i wouldn't think it needs any lube unless it's making a noise. but if you were to lube it, i'd use a dry graphite lube.
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Apr 15, 2008 | 06:47 PM
  #10  
The only problem with power antennas is after awile they get dirt and grime inside. Then they stop going up and down. At that point you have to take it apart and clean it or replace it. but that takes several years. Untill then, enjoy.
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May 12, 2008 | 05:46 PM
  #11  
Alright, I want to turn off RDS because I find no use for it. What button am I supposed to hold down to turn it off? I see RDS on the faceplate of it, but the button is not catching my eye. Is if TRAF or TEXT or one of those. Let me know. Thanks!
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May 13, 2008 | 02:08 PM
  #12  
SC430Sam,

Black up/down rocker switch on the right-hand side of the radio. Just below the "Audio/Tune" ****. It says "RDS TYPE". Press and hold the "RDS" (the up on the rocker). It should beep (if memory serves; I only have done it once).
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May 15, 2008 | 05:52 PM
  #13  
Alright, well the 07 radio does not have writing on the top and bottom of the rocker. It has "Type" in the middle. I held this and got nothing. Does it make a beep or anything?
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