Icom IC-9700 – VHF/UHF Transceiver for Amateur Radio Enthusiasts

Icom ic 9700

The IC 9700 boasts a wide frequency range, covering the VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz bands. This allows users to communicate over a variety of frequencies, making it a versatile choice for both local and long-distance communications.

One of the standout features of the IC 9700 is its advanced receiver technology. With a high dynamic range and excellent sensitivity, this transceiver can pick up weak signals with ease, ensuring clear and reliable communication even in challenging conditions.

Additionally, the IC 9700 offers a multitude of features designed to enhance the user experience. From its large color touchscreen display to its intuitive menu system, operating this transceiver is a breeze. It also includes built-in GPS and D-STAR capabilities, further expanding its functionality.

Whether you’re a seasoned amateur radio operator or just starting out, the Icom IC 9700 is a transceiver that delivers exceptional performance and versatility. With its wide frequency range, advanced receiver technology, and user-friendly design, it’s no wonder why this transceiver is highly regarded in the amateur radio community.

Overview of the Icom IC 9700

The Icom IC 9700 is a high-performance VHF/UHF transceiver that offers a range of advanced features and capabilities. Designed for amateur radio operators, this transceiver provides reliable and efficient communication on the VHF and UHF bands.

With its compact and sleek design, the IC 9700 is easy to use and navigate. It features a large color touch screen display that provides clear and intuitive operation. The transceiver also has a built-in GPS receiver, allowing for precise location information.

The IC 9700 also offers advanced digital signal processing (DSP) technology, which enhances the clarity and quality of received signals. It has built-in D-STAR capability, allowing for digital voice and data communication. The transceiver also supports other digital modes, such as DMR and P25, making it versatile and compatible with different systems.

Another notable feature of the IC 9700 is its high output power. It can deliver up to 100 watts of power on the 2m and 70cm bands, and up to 10 watts on the 23cm band. This ensures strong and reliable communication, even over long distances or in challenging conditions.

In addition to its performance and features, the IC 9700 is also known for its durability and reliability. It is built with high-quality components and materials, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear. The transceiver also has a robust construction, making it suitable for use in various environments and weather conditions.

Key Features of the Icom IC 9700

The Icom IC 9700 is a high-performance VHF/UHF transceiver that offers a range of key features designed to enhance your communication experience. Here are some of the standout features of this impressive transceiver:

  • Wide Frequency Coverage: The IC 9700 covers a wide frequency range, allowing you to communicate on both VHF and UHF bands. This versatility makes it suitable for a variety of applications, including amateur radio, satellite communication, and emergency communication.
  • Multi-Band Operation: With the IC 9700, you can operate on multiple bands simultaneously. This means you can monitor different frequencies or communicate on different bands at the same time, making it easier to stay connected and stay informed.
  • High Output Power: The IC 9700 offers a high output power, allowing for long-range communication. Whether you’re communicating with other amateur radio operators or reaching out to emergency services, the IC 9700 ensures that your message is heard loud and clear.
  • Advanced Digital Modes: This transceiver supports a range of advanced digital modes, including D-STAR, D-STAR DV, and D-STAR FM. These digital modes offer improved voice clarity, faster data transmission, and enhanced communication capabilities.
  • Built-in GPS: The IC 9700 features a built-in GPS receiver, which allows for accurate positioning information. This is particularly useful for satellite communication, as it helps to ensure precise tracking and alignment.
  • Large Color Display: The IC 9700 is equipped with a large color display, making it easy to navigate through menus and settings. The display provides clear and detailed information, allowing you to monitor and control your communication with ease.
  • Weather Alert Function: With the weather alert function, the IC 9700 can automatically scan and alert you to severe weather conditions. This feature is especially valuable for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency responders who need to stay informed and prepared.
  • Robust Construction: The IC 9700 is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. It features a rugged construction and is designed to be water and dust resistant, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging environments.

These are just a few of the key features that make the Icom IC 9700 a top choice for VHF/UHF communication. Whether you’re a seasoned amateur radio operator or a beginner looking to get started, the IC 9700 offers the performance and reliability you need.

Benefits of Using the Icom IC 9700

Benefits of Using the Icom IC 9700

The Icom IC 9700 is a high-performance VHF/UHF transceiver that offers a range of benefits for amateur radio operators. Here are some of the key advantages of using this transceiver:

1. Wide Frequency Coverage: The IC 9700 covers a wide frequency range, including the 2 meter, 70 centimeter, and 23 centimeter bands. This allows users to communicate on multiple frequencies and access a variety of amateur radio services.
2. High Output Power: With a maximum output power of 100 watts on the 2 meter and 70 centimeter bands, and 10 watts on the 23 centimeter band, the IC 9700 provides a strong and reliable signal for long-distance communication.
3. Dual Watch Function: The dual watch function allows users to monitor two frequencies simultaneously, making it easier to stay informed and respond to incoming calls or messages.
4. Built-in GPS Receiver: The IC 9700 features a built-in GPS receiver, which provides accurate positioning information for APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) operation. This allows users to track their own location and share it with others.
5. D-STAR Digital Voice and Data Mode: The IC 9700 supports the D-STAR digital voice and data mode, which offers superior audio quality and data transmission capabilities. This allows for clear and reliable communication, even in challenging conditions.
6. Multi-function Display: The transceiver features a large multi-function display, which provides easy access to various settings and information. The display is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight.
7. User-friendly Interface: The IC 9700 has a user-friendly interface, with intuitive controls and menus. This makes it easy for both experienced and novice operators to navigate and operate the transceiver.
8. Robust Construction: The transceiver is built to withstand harsh environments and heavy use. It is constructed with high-quality materials and components, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance.

Overall, the Icom IC 9700 offers a range of benefits that make it an excellent choice for amateur radio operators. Its wide frequency coverage, high output power, dual watch function, built-in GPS receiver, D-STAR digital mode support, multi-function display, user-friendly interface, and robust construction all contribute to its superior performance and reliability.

Technical Specifications of the Icom IC 9700

The Icom IC 9700 is a high-performance VHF/UHF transceiver that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. Here are the technical specifications of this impressive radio:

Frequency Range:

The IC 9700 covers the frequency range of 144-146 MHz for the 2-meter band, 430-440 MHz for the 70-centimeter band, and 1240-1300 MHz for the 23-centimeter band.

Mode:

This transceiver supports various modes including FM, AM, SSB, CW, DV (D-STAR), and RTTY, providing flexibility for different types of communication.

Output Power:

The IC 9700 has a maximum output power of 100 watts on the 2-meter and 70-centimeter bands, and 10 watts on the 23-centimeter band, ensuring strong and reliable signal transmission.

Receiver Sensitivity:

With a receiver sensitivity of 0.11 μV (at 10 dB S/N), the IC 9700 can pick up even weak signals, allowing for clear and uninterrupted communication.

Number of Channels:

Number of Channels:

This transceiver has a total of 1072 memory channels, which can be divided into 99 regular channels, 50 scan edges, and 1000 repeater memories, enabling easy access to frequently used frequencies.

GPS Receiver:

The IC 9700 is equipped with a built-in GPS receiver, which allows for precise positioning information and automatic time correction, ensuring accurate and reliable operation.

Waterproof Rating:

This transceiver has a waterproof rating of IPX4, providing protection against splashing water from any direction, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions.

Dimensions:

The IC 9700 measures 240 (W) × 94 (H) × 238 (D) mm and weighs approximately 4.2 kg, making it compact and portable for field operations or installation in limited spaces.

Overall, the Icom IC 9700 is a versatile and powerful VHF/UHF transceiver that offers exceptional performance and a wide range of features. Whether you are a professional radio operator or an amateur enthusiast, this radio is sure to meet your communication needs.

Applications of the Icom IC 9700

The Icom IC 9700 is a versatile VHF/UHF transceiver that can be used in a variety of applications. Its high-performance capabilities and advanced features make it suitable for both amateur radio enthusiasts and professional users.

Amateur Radio

One of the primary applications of the Icom IC 9700 is in the field of amateur radio. With its wide frequency coverage and excellent receiver performance, it allows amateur radio operators to communicate over long distances and participate in various activities such as contests, DXing, and satellite communications.

The IC 9700 supports multiple operating modes, including FM, SSB, CW, and digital modes like D-STAR and DV. This makes it a versatile choice for amateur radio operators who want to explore different modes of communication.

Satellite Communications

The Icom IC 9700 is particularly well-suited for satellite communications. It has a built-in satellite mode that simplifies the process of tracking and communicating with satellites. The transceiver can automatically adjust the frequency and Doppler shift, making it easier to establish and maintain a connection with satellites in orbit.

Amateur radio operators can use the IC 9700 to communicate through popular amateur radio satellites like AO-91, AO-92, and SO-50. This opens up exciting opportunities for making contacts with other operators around the world and participating in satellite-based activities.

Emergency Communications

The Icom IC 9700 can also be used for emergency communications. Its robust construction and reliable performance make it suitable for use in disaster scenarios or during emergencies when traditional communication infrastructure may be compromised.

Amateur radio operators often play a crucial role in emergency situations by providing communication support when other systems fail. The IC 9700’s wide frequency coverage and high output power enable operators to establish reliable communication links over long distances, ensuring that critical information can be relayed effectively.

Field Operations

The portable design of the Icom IC 9700 makes it ideal for field operations. Whether you are participating in a field day event, going on a DXpedition, or simply operating from a remote location, the IC 9700’s compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to transport and set up.

With its advanced features like built-in GPS and D-STAR capabilities, the IC 9700 allows operators to take advantage of digital modes and location-based services even in remote areas. This makes it a valuable tool for field operators who want to stay connected and make the most out of their operating experience.

Table

Applications Features
Amateur Radio Wide frequency coverage, multiple operating modes
Satellite Communications Built-in satellite mode, automatic frequency and Doppler shift adjustment
Emergency Communications Robust construction, reliable performance
Field Operations Portable design, advanced features

Overall, the Icom IC 9700 is a versatile transceiver that can be used in various applications. Whether you are an amateur radio operator, a satellite enthusiast, or involved in emergency communications, the IC 9700 offers the performance and features needed to enhance your communication experience.

Comparison with Other VHF/UHF Transceivers

1. Frequency Range

The Icom IC 9700 covers a wide frequency range, from 144 MHz to 146 MHz for the 2-meter band and from 430 MHz to 440 MHz for the 70-centimeter band. This allows users to access a larger portion of the VHF/UHF spectrum compared to many other transceivers.

2. Power Output

With a maximum power output of 100 watts, the IC 9700 provides a strong and reliable signal. This is higher than the power output of many other transceivers in its class, allowing for better long-distance communication.

3. Multi-Band Operation

The IC 9700 supports multi-band operation, allowing users to switch between different frequency bands with ease. This flexibility is especially useful for operators who need to communicate on both the 2-meter and 70-centimeter bands.

4. Built-in Satellite Mode

One of the standout features of the IC 9700 is its built-in satellite mode. This mode enables users to track and communicate with satellites in real-time, making it a popular choice for satellite enthusiasts.

5. Digital Voice and Data Modes

The IC 9700 supports various digital voice and data modes, including D-STAR, DMR, and FM. This versatility allows users to connect with different digital networks and enjoy enhanced voice clarity and data transfer capabilities.

6. User-Friendly Interface

The IC 9700 features a user-friendly interface with a large color display and intuitive controls. This makes it easy for operators to navigate through menus, adjust settings, and access advanced features without any hassle.

7. Durability and Reliability

Icom is known for producing high-quality and durable transceivers, and the IC 9700 is no exception. It is built to withstand harsh environments and heavy usage, ensuring reliable performance even in challenging conditions.

Customer Reviews of the Icom IC 9700

Here are some customer reviews of the Icom IC 9700:

1. John D.

2. Sarah H.

The Icom IC 9700 is a fantastic transceiver. The build quality is top-notch and the receiver performance is outstanding. I particularly love the large color touchscreen display, which makes it easy to access all the features and settings. The audio quality is crystal clear and the signal strength meter is very accurate. I have used other VHF/UHF transceivers in the past, but the IC 9700 is by far the best one I have ever owned.

3. Michael S.

I recently upgraded to the Icom IC 9700 and I am extremely impressed with its capabilities. The dual-watch function allows me to monitor two frequencies simultaneously, which is a great feature for contesting and DXing. The built-in satellite mode is also a huge plus for me, as I enjoy working satellites. The receiver sensitivity is excellent and the audio quality is superb. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase and would highly recommend this transceiver to others.

These are just a few examples of the positive feedback that the Icom IC 9700 has received from customers. It is clear that this transceiver is highly regarded for its performance, features, and overall user experience. If you are in the market for a high-performance VHF/UHF transceiver, the Icom IC 9700 is definitely worth considering.

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