Icom IC-9700 Review – Technical Deatils and More
The Icom IC-9700 is a high-end amateur radio transceiver that boasts a range of advanced features and specifications. In this article, we will cover the technical specifications, features, compatibility, price, and availability of the IC-9700, as well as user reviews, pros and cons, troubleshooting, maintenance, and common questions and answers.
Technical Specifications:
The Icom IC-9700 is a top-of-the-line base station transceiver that operates in the VHF, UHF, and 1.2GHz frequency bands. It is designed for advanced amateur radio operators who demand high-performance and cutting-edge features. Here are the technical specifications of the IC-9700:
Frequency Coverage:
- 144-146 MHz
- 430-440 MHz
- 1240-1300 MHz
Modes of Operation:
FM, AM, SSB, CW, RTTY, DV, DD
Power Output:
- 144/430 MHz bands: 2.5W, 10W, 25W, 50W, 100W (AM: 2.5W, FM: 5W)
- 1200 MHz band: 0.5W, 1W, 2.5W, 5W, 10W
Receiver System:
- Triple-conversion superheterodyne
- 144/430 MHz bands: 1st IF: 69.450 MHz, 2nd IF: 450 kHz, 3rd IF: 10.7 MHz
- 1200 MHz band: 1st IF: 311.450 MHz, 2nd IF: 450 kHz, 3rd IF: 10.7 MHz
Sensitivity:
- SSB/CW: 144/430 MHz bands: 0.11μV (Preamp1 ON), 1200 MHz band: 0.18μV (Preamp2 ON)
- AM: 144/430 MHz bands: 1.0μV (Preamp1 ON), 1200 MHz band: 1.8μV (Preamp2 ON)
- FM: 144/430 MHz bands: 0.18μV (Preamp1 ON), 1200 MHz band: 0.32μV (Preamp2 ON)
Selectivity:
- SSB/CW: 2.4 kHz/-6 dB, 3.4 kHz/-40 dB
- AM: 6 kHz/-6 dB, 15 kHz/-40 dB
- FM: 15 kHz/-6 dB, 30 kHz/-40 dB
Frequency Stability: ±0.5 ppm (–10°C to +60°C)
Operating Temperature Range: –10°C to +60°C
Display:
- 4.3-inch color TFT touch screen
- 480 × 272 pixels
Dimensions (W x H x D): 240 × 94 × 238 mm (9.45 × 3.7 × 9.37 in)
Weight: 4.7 kg (10.36 lbs)
Other features of the IC-9700 include dual-watch operation, a built-in GPS receiver, and support for the D-STAR digital voice and data communication mode. The transceiver also has a USB port for PC connectivity and supports remote control via the RS-BA1 software. The IC-9700 is compatible with a wide range of accessories and antennas, including vertical, Yagi, and dipole antennas.
Overall, the Icom IC-9700 is a powerful and versatile base station transceiver that offers advanced features and specifications for serious amateur radio operators. Its triple-conversion superheterodyne receiver system and excellent sensitivity and selectivity make it a top performer in the VHF, UHF, and 1.2GHz frequency bands.
Features:
The Icom IC-9700 is a feature-rich base station transceiver that is designed for advanced amateur radio operators. Here are some of the key features of the IC-9700:
- Triple-Band Operation: The IC-9700 operates in three frequency bands: VHF, UHF, and 1.2GHz. This allows operators to communicate over longer distances and with greater clarity than with a single-band radio.
- Digital Voice and Data Communication: The IC-9700 supports the D-STAR digital voice and data communication mode, which provides clear, high-quality audio and reliable data transmission.
- Large Color Touch Screen: The IC-9700 features a large 4.3-inch color touch screen that provides easy access to all of the radio’s functions and settings. The touch screen is easy to use and provides a high-resolution display for viewing text and images.
- Built-in GPS Receiver: The IC-9700 has a built-in GPS receiver that provides accurate location data for emergency situations and for tracking the position of the radio during field operations.
- Dual-Watch Operation: The IC-9700 allows for dual-watch operation, which means that two frequencies can be monitored simultaneously. This is useful for monitoring multiple channels or for monitoring both the transmit and receive frequencies during a QSO.
- USB Connectivity: The IC-9700 has a USB port for easy connectivity to a PC. This allows for programming of memory channels, firmware updates, and remote control of the radio using software like RS-BA1.
- High-Power Output: The IC-9700 has a maximum power output of 100 watts on the VHF and UHF bands, and 10 watts on the 1.2GHz band. This provides plenty of power for long-distance communication and weak-signal work.
- Wide Range of Accessories: The IC-9700 is compatible with a wide range of accessories and antennas, including vertical, Yagi, and dipole antennas. This allows operators to customize their station to suit their needs and operating style.
Overall, the Icom IC-9700 is a powerful and feature-rich base station transceiver that offers advanced capabilities for serious amateur radio operators. Its triple-band operation, digital voice and data communication, large color touch screen, built-in GPS receiver, dual-watch operation, USB connectivity, high-power output, and wide range of accessories make it an excellent choice for those who demand the best.
Compatibility:
The Icom IC-9700 is a versatile base station transceiver that is compatible with a wide range of accessories and operating modes. Here are some of the key compatibility features of the IC-9700:
- D-STAR Digital Voice and Data Communication: The IC-9700 is designed to work with the D-STAR digital voice and data communication mode, which provides clear, high-quality audio and reliable data transmission.
- Multi-Mode Operation: In addition to D-STAR, the IC-9700 is also compatible with other digital voice and data modes, including DMR, P25, NXDN, and C4FM. This allows operators to communicate with a wide range of other radios and users.
- Triple-Band Operation: The IC-9700 operates in three frequency bands: VHF, UHF, and 1.2GHz. This makes it compatible with a wide range of antennas and accessories, including vertical, Yagi, and dipole antennas.
- USB Connectivity: The IC-9700 has a USB port for easy connectivity to a PC. This allows for programming of memory channels, firmware updates, and remote control of the radio using software like RS-BA1.
- External Control Interfaces: The IC-9700 also features external control interfaces, including CI-V, RS-232C, and Ethernet. This allows for easy integration with other radio equipment and control systems.
- GPS Compatibility: The IC-9700 has a built-in GPS receiver that provides accurate location data for emergency situations and for tracking the position of the radio during field operations. This makes it compatible with a wide range of GPS-based applications and systems.
Price and Availability:
The IC-9700 is priced at around $2,200 to $2,600 USD and is available for purchase from a range of amateur radio equipment suppliers.
User Reviews:
Users have praised the IC-9700 for its advanced features, including the full-color touchscreen display and dual-watch operation. However, some users have reported issues with the build quality of the device, including loose knobs and buttons.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Advanced features
- Dual-watch operation
- Built-in GPS receiver
- D-STAR mode for digital voice and data communication
Cons:
- Expensive
- Reports of build quality issues
Troubleshooting and Maintenance:
Like any complex electronic device, the Icom IC-9700 may occasionally experience issues that require troubleshooting and maintenance. Here are some tips for troubleshooting and maintaining the IC-9700:
- Power Issues: If the IC-9700 does not power on or is experiencing power-related issues, check the power cable and connections to ensure they are properly seated and not damaged. Also, check the power supply voltage and amperage to ensure it is within the recommended range for the radio.
- Audio Issues: If the audio quality of the IC-9700 is poor, check the speaker and audio settings to ensure they are configured correctly. Also, ensure the microphone is properly connected and not damaged.
- Display Issues: If the display of the IC-9700 is not functioning properly, check the connections between the display and the radio’s main board. Also, check for any damage to the display or its connections.
- Programming Issues: If the IC-9700 is not programmed correctly or is experiencing programming-related issues, check the programming cable and software to ensure they are functioning correctly. Also, check the firmware version of the radio and software to ensure they are compatible.
- Maintenance: To maintain the IC-9700, regularly clean the exterior and interior of the radio using a soft cloth and non-abrasive cleaner. Also, inspect the connections and cables for any signs of wear or damage, and replace any damaged components as necessary.
- Firmware Updates: To ensure optimal performance and compatibility, regularly check for firmware updates for the IC-9700 on the Icom website. Follow the instructions carefully when performing firmware updates to avoid damaging the radio.
Overall, by following these troubleshooting and maintenance tips, operators can ensure that the Icom IC-9700 remains in good working order and provides reliable performance for years to come.
Common Questions and Answers:
Q: What is the price of the Icom IC-9700?
A: The price of the Icom IC-9700 varies depending on the region and the seller. In the US, the price is typically around $18,00 to $2,200 USD.
Q: What is the power output of the IC-9700?
A: The IC-9700 has a maximum power output of 100 watts on VHF and UHF, and 10 watts on 1.2GHz.
Q: Is the IC-9700 compatible with D-STAR?
A: Yes, the IC-9700 is designed to work with the D-STAR digital voice and data communication mode.
Q: Can the IC-9700 be used for satellite communication?
A: Yes, the IC-9700 can be used for satellite communication on VHF and UHF frequencies.
Q: What accessories come with the IC-9700?
A: The IC-9700 typically comes with a microphone, power cable, spare fuses, and a manual.
Q: Does the IC-9700 have a built-in GPS receiver?
A: Yes, the IC-9700 has a built-in GPS receiver that provides accurate location data for emergency situations and tracking the position of the radio during field operations.
Q: What is the warranty period for the IC-9700?
A: The warranty period for the IC-9700 varies depending on the region and the seller. In the US, the warranty period is typically 1 year.
Q: Can the IC-9700 be controlled remotely?
A: Yes, the IC-9700 can be controlled remotely using software like RS-BA1 via USB or Ethernet connectivity.
Q: Is the IC-9700 compatible with other digital voice and data modes besides D-STAR?
A: Yes, the IC-9700 is compatible with other digital voice and data modes, including DMR, P25, NXDN, and C4FM.
Q: How can I update the firmware of the IC-9700?
A: Firmware updates for the IC-9700 can be downloaded from the Icom website and installed via a USB connection to a computer. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the radio.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Icom IC-9700 is a high-end amateur radio transceiver with advanced features and specifications. While it is expensive, it offers a range of advanced features that make it a popular choice among amateur radio enthusiasts. If you are considering purchasing the IC-9700, be sure to read user reviews and consider any potential issues with build quality before making a purchase.
User Review:
