Icom ic 2200h – Review of the High-Performance Mobile Transceiver

Icom ic 2200h

In addition to its impressive power output, the IC-2200H also offers a wide range of features that make it a versatile transceiver. It has a built-in CTCSS and DTCS encoder/decoder, allowing you to access repeaters and communicate with other operators using tone codes. The transceiver also has a built-in weather alert function, which can be a lifesaver in emergency situations.

Another notable feature of the IC-2200H is its rugged construction. Built to withstand harsh conditions, this transceiver is perfect for outdoor use. Whether you are operating in extreme temperatures or in a dusty environment, you can rely on the IC-2200H to perform flawlessly. Its sturdy construction ensures that it can handle the rigors of mobile operation without any issues.

Key Features of the Icom IC-2200H

The Icom IC-2200H is a versatile VHF mobile transceiver designed specifically for amateur radio operators. It offers a wide range of features and capabilities that make it a reliable choice for communication in the VHF frequency range.

Here are some key features of the Icom IC-2200H:

Frequency Coverage: The IC-2200H covers a frequency range of 144-148 MHz, providing access to the 2-meter amateur band. This allows for communication over a wide area, making it suitable for both local and long-distance communication.
Power Output: The transceiver has a maximum power output of 65 watts, allowing for clear and reliable communication even in challenging conditions. The high power output ensures a strong signal and extended range.
Build Quality: The IC-2200H is built to withstand the rigors of mobile use. It features a rugged construction and durable materials that can withstand vibrations, shocks, and other environmental factors. This ensures that the transceiver will continue to perform reliably even in demanding situations.
Display and Controls: The transceiver is equipped with a large, easy-to-read display that provides essential information such as frequency, channel, and signal strength. The controls are intuitive and user-friendly, allowing for quick and easy operation.
Noise Reduction: The IC-2200H features advanced noise reduction technology that helps to minimize background noise and interference, ensuring clear and crisp audio quality. This is especially important in noisy environments or when communicating over long distances.
Weather Resistance: The transceiver is designed to be weather-resistant, allowing for use in various weather conditions. It is built to withstand rain, humidity, and other environmental factors, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Ease of Use: The IC-2200H is designed with user convenience in mind. It features a straightforward menu system and programmable function keys that allow for customization and easy access to frequently used features. The transceiver also supports memory channels, making it easy to store and recall frequently used frequencies.
Accessories and Expansion Options: The IC-2200H offers a range of accessories and expansion options to enhance its functionality. This includes external speakers, microphones, and data cables, as well as options for connecting to external antennas and amplifiers.
Price and Value for Money: The IC-2200H offers excellent value for money, providing a wide range of features and capabilities at an affordable price. It is a reliable and durable transceiver that is suitable for both beginners and experienced amateur radio operators.

Design and Build Quality

The Icom IC-2200H is a well-designed and sturdy VHF mobile transceiver that is built to withstand the rigors of amateur radio operations. The device features a compact and sleek design, with a black metal chassis that not only looks professional but also provides excellent durability.

The front panel of the IC-2200H is laid out in a logical and intuitive manner, with all the controls and buttons within easy reach. The buttons have a solid feel to them and are well-spaced, making it easy to operate the transceiver even in low-light conditions. The large, backlit LCD display is clear and easy to read, providing essential information at a glance.

The build quality of the IC-2200H is top-notch, with high-quality materials used throughout. The device feels solid and well-built, and the buttons and knobs have a satisfying tactile feedback. The chassis is rugged and can withstand rough handling, making it suitable for use in various environments and conditions.

Compact and Sleek Design

The IC-2200H features a compact and sleek design, with dimensions of 6.1 x 1.7 x 6.1 inches (W x H x D) and a weight of 2.9 pounds. This makes it easy to install in a vehicle or on a desk without taking up too much space. The black metal chassis adds to the professional look of the transceiver, making it suitable for use in both amateur and professional settings.

Intuitive Controls and Backlit LCD Display

Intuitive Controls and Backlit LCD Display

The front panel of the IC-2200H is designed with the user in mind, with all the controls and buttons laid out in a logical and intuitive manner. The buttons are well-spaced and have a solid feel to them, making it easy to operate the transceiver even in low-light conditions. The large, backlit LCD display is clear and easy to read, providing essential information such as frequency, signal strength, and mode at a glance.

Rugged and Durable

The IC-2200H is built to withstand the rigors of amateur radio operations. The chassis is made of high-quality materials and feels solid and well-built. The buttons and knobs have a satisfying tactile feedback, and the device can withstand rough handling without any issues. This makes it suitable for use in various environments and conditions, including outdoor and mobile applications.

Pros Cons
Compact and sleek design No built-in GPS
Intuitive controls and backlit LCD display No built-in Bluetooth
Rugged and durable No built-in APRS

Overall, the Icom IC-2200H is a well-designed and sturdy VHF mobile transceiver that offers excellent design and build quality. Its compact and sleek design, intuitive controls, and rugged construction make it a reliable choice for amateur radio operators.

Display and Controls

The Icom IC-2200H features a clear and easy-to-read display that allows for quick and efficient operation. The display is backlit, making it visible in low-light conditions, and the large size ensures that all information is easily readable.

The controls on the IC-2200H are well-designed and intuitive, allowing for easy navigation and adjustment of settings. The front panel features a large tuning knob, which provides precise frequency selection, as well as dedicated buttons for commonly used functions such as volume control and squelch adjustment.

In addition to the main controls, the IC-2200H also includes a number of programmable function keys, which can be customized to perform specific tasks or access frequently used features. This allows for greater flexibility and convenience in operation.

Menu System

Menu System

The IC-2200H has a comprehensive menu system that allows for customization of various settings and functions. The menu is accessed through a dedicated button on the front panel, and the options are displayed on the screen for easy selection.

Within the menu system, users can adjust parameters such as power output, frequency step size, and squelch level. They can also enable or disable features such as CTCSS and DCS tones, scan functions, and memory channels.

The menu system is well-organized and easy to navigate, with clear and concise descriptions of each option. This makes it simple for users to customize the IC-2200H to their specific needs and preferences.

Memory Channels

The IC-2200H has a generous number of memory channels, allowing users to store and recall their favorite frequencies and settings. The radio can store up to 207 memory channels, which can be organized into multiple banks for easy access.

Users can assign alphanumeric names to each memory channel, making it easier to identify and select the desired frequency. The IC-2200H also allows for the cloning of memory channels, which is useful for quickly programming multiple radios with the same settings.

Memory channels can be easily programmed and edited through the menu system or by using the optional programming software and cable. This makes it convenient to update and manage the stored frequencies and settings.

Overall, the display and controls of the Icom IC-2200H provide a user-friendly experience, allowing for efficient operation and customization. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced amateur radio operator, the IC-2200H offers a reliable and intuitive interface for all your communication needs.

Power Output and Range

The Icom IC-2200H is a powerful VHF mobile transceiver that offers a high power output and impressive range. With a maximum power output of 65 watts, this radio can transmit signals over long distances, making it ideal for amateur radio operators who need to communicate over large areas.

Whether you’re using the IC-2200H for local communications or long-distance contacts, its power output ensures that your signals will be strong and clear. This is especially important in areas with challenging terrain or obstacles that can weaken radio signals.

In addition to its high power output, the IC-2200H also offers a wide frequency coverage, allowing you to access a variety of VHF bands. This gives you the flexibility to communicate on different frequencies depending on your needs and the conditions of the radio environment.

Furthermore, the IC-2200H supports multiple modes, including FM, AM, and SSB. This means that you can choose the most appropriate mode for your communication needs, whether you’re talking to other amateur radio operators, participating in a net, or monitoring emergency channels.

Overall, the power output and range of the Icom IC-2200H make it a reliable and versatile VHF mobile transceiver for amateur radio operators. Its high power output ensures strong and clear signals, while its wide frequency coverage and multiple modes provide flexibility in communication. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced operator, the IC-2200H is a great choice for your amateur radio needs.

Frequency Coverage and Modes

The Icom IC-2200H offers a wide frequency coverage, making it suitable for various amateur radio applications. It covers the VHF band from 144 to 148 MHz, providing access to the 2-meter amateur radio band. This frequency range is commonly used for local communication and emergency communication networks.

With regards to modes, the IC-2200H supports both FM and AM modes. FM (Frequency Modulation) is the most commonly used mode for voice communication in amateur radio. It provides clear and reliable communication, especially in areas with strong signal strength. AM (Amplitude Modulation) mode is less commonly used in amateur radio but can be useful for certain applications, such as listening to aviation or marine frequencies.

The IC-2200H also supports various tuning steps, allowing users to fine-tune their frequency selection. The available tuning steps include 5 kHz, 10 kHz, 12.5 kHz, 15 kHz, 20 kHz, and 25 kHz. This flexibility in tuning steps ensures compatibility with different frequency allocations and helps users find the clearest and least congested channels.

Additionally, the IC-2200H features a built-in CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System) and DCS (Digital-Coded Squelch) encoder/decoder. These features allow users to selectively filter out unwanted signals and only receive transmissions with the correct tone or code. This helps minimize interference from other users and ensures clear and uninterrupted communication.

In summary, the Icom IC-2200H provides a wide frequency coverage in the VHF band and supports both FM and AM modes. Its various tuning steps and built-in CTCSS/DCS capabilities enhance the versatility and usability of this mobile transceiver for amateur radio operators.

Audio Quality and Noise Reduction

One of the standout features of the IC-2200H is its noise reduction capabilities. The transceiver utilizes advanced DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology to minimize background noise and interference, ensuring that you receive only the clearest signals. This is particularly useful in noisy environments or when communicating over long distances.

The IC-2200H also offers adjustable audio settings, allowing you to customize the sound to your preference. You can adjust the volume, tone, and squelch levels to optimize the audio quality based on your specific needs and preferences. This level of control ensures that you can always hear and be heard clearly, regardless of the surrounding conditions.

Clear Communication in Challenging Environments

Whether you are operating in a crowded urban area or in the great outdoors, the IC-2200H’s audio quality and noise reduction capabilities ensure that you can communicate effectively. The transceiver’s ability to filter out background noise and interference allows for clear and uninterrupted communication, even in challenging environments.

Additionally, the IC-2200H features a built-in noise-cancelling microphone. This microphone is designed to minimize background noise and focus on your voice, further enhancing the clarity of your transmissions. Whether you are using the transceiver in a vehicle or in a stationary setup, the noise-cancelling microphone ensures that your voice is heard loud and clear.

Reliable Performance in Any Situation

The Icom IC-2200H is built to withstand the rigors of amateur radio operations. Its durable construction and weather-resistant design make it suitable for use in various conditions. Whether you are operating in extreme temperatures, heavy rain, or dusty environments, you can rely on the IC-2200H to perform reliably.

Overall, the IC-2200H’s audio quality and noise reduction capabilities make it an excellent choice for amateur radio operators. Its ability to deliver clear and crisp audio, along with its advanced noise reduction technology, ensures that you can communicate effectively in any situation. Whether you are using the IC-2200H for casual conversations or emergency communications, you can trust in its reliable performance.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The Icom IC-2200H is built to withstand the rigors of mobile operation and is designed to be durable and weather-resistant. Its rugged construction ensures that it can withstand vibrations, shocks, and rough handling, making it suitable for use in various environments.

With an IP54 rating, the IC-2200H is protected against dust and splashes of water from any direction. This means that you can use it confidently in outdoor settings, even in inclement weather conditions.

The transceiver’s sturdy build quality is evident in its robust chassis and high-quality components. The buttons and knobs are well-designed and have a solid feel, ensuring reliable operation even after prolonged use.

In addition to its durability, the IC-2200H also features a built-in cooling fan that helps prevent overheating during extended operation. This ensures that the transceiver can maintain optimal performance even under demanding conditions.

Overall, the Icom IC-2200H is a reliable and durable VHF mobile transceiver that is built to withstand the elements and provide reliable communication in various situations. Whether you are using it in a vehicle or in an outdoor setting, you can trust that it will perform consistently and withstand the challenges of the environment.

Ease of Use and Programming

The Icom IC-2200H is known for its user-friendly interface and easy programming options, making it an ideal choice for amateur radio operators of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced operator, you will find this transceiver to be intuitive and straightforward to use.

One of the standout features of the IC-2200H is its large, backlit display, which provides clear and easy-to-read information. The menu system is well-organized and allows for quick and easy navigation through the various settings and options. The buttons and knobs on the front panel are also well-placed and responsive, ensuring that you can make adjustments on the fly without any hassle.

Programming the IC-2200H is a breeze, thanks to its versatile memory system. The transceiver can store up to 207 alphanumeric memory channels, allowing you to quickly access your favorite frequencies and settings. You can also program the transceiver using a computer and the optional CS-2200H programming software, which offers even more flexibility and convenience.

In addition to its ease of use, the IC-2200H also offers a range of advanced features that enhance its programming capabilities. These include programmable memory scan, dual watch, and priority watch functions, which allow you to monitor multiple frequencies simultaneously and prioritize certain channels for quick access.

Overall, the Icom IC-2200H is a user-friendly and highly programmable VHF mobile transceiver that offers a wide range of features and options. Whether you are a casual operator or a dedicated enthusiast, this transceiver will meet your needs and provide you with a reliable and enjoyable radio experience.

Accessories and Expansion Options

Remote Control Mic

One of the standout accessories for the IC-2200H is the optional remote control microphone. This allows you to control the transceiver from a distance, making it ideal for use in vehicles or other situations where the transceiver may not be easily accessible. The remote control mic features a built-in speaker and a clear, easy-to-read display, making it a convenient and user-friendly addition to the IC-2200H.

External Speaker

External Speaker

Another useful accessory for the IC-2200H is the external speaker. This speaker is designed to enhance the audio quality of the transceiver, allowing you to hear incoming signals more clearly. The external speaker is compact and easy to install, making it a great addition to the IC-2200H for those who require improved audio performance.

Antennas

The IC-2200H is compatible with a wide range of antennas, allowing you to customize your setup to suit your specific needs. Whether you need a high-gain antenna for long-range communication or a compact antenna for portable use, there are plenty of options available for the IC-2200H. Additionally, the transceiver features a built-in antenna tuner, which helps optimize the performance of your chosen antenna.

Data Modems

If you’re interested in digital modes of communication, the IC-2200H can be easily connected to a data modem. This allows you to send and receive data packets over the airwaves, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for communication. Whether you’re interested in APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) or other digital modes, the IC-2200H can be easily integrated into your setup.

Expansion Options

The IC-2200H also offers a range of expansion options, allowing you to further enhance its capabilities. This includes the ability to connect external devices such as GPS receivers or external speakers. Additionally, the transceiver features a built-in voice synthesizer, which can be used to announce frequency, mode, and other important information.

Pros Cons
Wide range of accessories available Some accessories may be expensive
Easy integration with data modems Additional accessories may be required for certain applications
Expandable capabilities May require additional knowledge or expertise to fully utilize expansion options

Price and Value for Money

Price and Value for Money

Compared to other similar models on the market, the Icom IC-2200H provides a great combination of performance and affordability. It offers a wide frequency coverage and various modes, making it suitable for a range of amateur radio activities.

In addition to its reasonable price, the Icom IC-2200H also comes with a range of accessories and expansion options. This allows users to customize and enhance their radio experience according to their specific needs and preferences.

Furthermore, the Icom IC-2200H is known for its durability and weather resistance. It is built to withstand harsh conditions and is designed to last for a long time, making it a reliable investment for amateur radio operators.

Overall, the Icom IC-2200H offers excellent value for money. Its affordable price, combined with its range of features and durability, makes it a popular choice among amateur radio operators. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced operator, this VHF mobile transceiver is worth considering for its performance and reliability.

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