The Icom IC-820H is a versatile and powerful amateur radio transceiver that has gained a reputation for its exceptional performance and reliability. Whether you are a seasoned ham radio operator or just starting out, this radio offers a wide range of features and capabilities that will meet your needs.
One of the standout features of the IC-820H is its dual-band operation, allowing you to transmit and receive on both the VHF and UHF bands. This makes it an ideal choice for those who want to communicate on multiple frequencies or participate in various amateur radio activities. With a power output of up to 45 watts, you can be confident that your signal will be heard loud and clear.
In addition to its impressive performance, the IC-820H also offers a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. The large, easy-to-read display provides essential information at a glance, while the ergonomic design ensures comfortable operation, even during long operating sessions. With its extensive menu options and customizable settings, you can tailor the radio to suit your preferences and operating style.
Key Features and Specifications
The Icom IC-820H is a versatile and high-performance amateur radio transceiver that offers a wide range of features and specifications. Here are some of its key features:
Frequency Coverage:
The IC-820H covers a frequency range of 144-148 MHz for VHF and 430-450 MHz for UHF, making it suitable for a variety of amateur radio applications.
Dual-Band Operation:
This transceiver supports dual-band operation, allowing users to transmit and receive signals on both VHF and UHF bands simultaneously. This feature provides flexibility and convenience for users who need to monitor multiple frequencies or communicate on different bands.
Output Power:
The IC-820H offers a maximum output power of 45 watts on VHF and 35 watts on UHF, ensuring strong and reliable signal transmission over long distances.
Receiver Sensitivity:
With a receiver sensitivity of 0.16 μV (12 dB SINAD) on VHF and 0.18 μV (12 dB SINAD) on UHF, the IC-820H can pick up weak signals with clarity and accuracy, making it ideal for weak-signal and DX (long-distance) communication.
Memory Channels:
This transceiver has a total of 99 memory channels, allowing users to store their favorite frequencies and settings for quick and easy access.
CTCSS and DCS:
The IC-820H supports both CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System) and DCS (Digital-Coded Squelch) encoding and decoding, enabling users to selectively filter out unwanted signals and enhance communication privacy.
Weather Alert:
With its built-in weather alert feature, the IC-820H can automatically scan and alert users to severe weather conditions, keeping them informed and safe during outdoor activities.
DTMF Encoding and Decoding:
This transceiver supports DTMF (Dual-Tone Multi-Frequency) encoding and decoding, allowing users to send and receive DTMF tones for remote control and signaling purposes.
Backlit Display:
The IC-820H features a backlit display that provides clear and easy-to-read information, even in low-light conditions. This makes it convenient for use in various environments, including nighttime operations.
Overall, the Icom IC-820H is a reliable and feature-packed amateur radio transceiver that offers excellent performance and versatility. Whether you are a seasoned ham radio operator or a beginner, this transceiver is sure to meet your communication needs.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the Icom IC-820H is sleek and modern, with a compact and sturdy build. The radio is constructed with high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. The front panel features a clear and intuitive layout, with all the necessary controls and buttons easily accessible.
The IC-820H has a robust and solid feel to it, with a weight that gives a sense of reliability. The chassis is made of metal, providing excellent protection against accidental drops or impacts. The overall design and build quality of the radio make it suitable for both portable and stationary use.
Ergonomics
The ergonomics of the IC-820H are well thought out, with a comfortable grip and easy-to-reach controls. The buttons and knobs have a good tactile feel, making it easy to operate the radio even in low-light conditions. The front panel is angled slightly upwards, allowing for better visibility and reducing strain on the user’s neck and eyes.
The size and weight of the radio are also well-balanced, making it convenient to carry and handle. The compact design ensures that the IC-820H can fit into tight spaces, such as a backpack or a crowded operating desk.
Display
The IC-820H features a large and bright LCD display that provides clear and easy-to-read information. The display shows essential details such as frequency, signal strength, and operating mode. The backlighting can be adjusted to suit different lighting conditions, ensuring optimal visibility at all times.
The display also includes a spectrum scope, which allows users to visualize the frequency spectrum and identify signals quickly. This feature is especially useful for monitoring multiple frequencies simultaneously or for locating weak signals in a crowded band.
Connectivity
The IC-820H offers a range of connectivity options, including multiple antenna ports, audio input/output jacks, and a data port. This allows users to connect external devices such as amplifiers, speakers, or computers for enhanced functionality and flexibility.
The radio also supports various communication modes, including FM, AM, SSB, and CW. This versatility makes the IC-820H suitable for a wide range of applications, from amateur radio operations to emergency communications.
User Interface and Controls
The Icom IC-820H is equipped with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls, making it easy to navigate and operate. The front panel features a clear and bright LCD display, which provides essential information such as frequency, mode, and signal strength. The display is backlit, ensuring visibility even in low light conditions.
The control knobs and buttons are well-placed and ergonomically designed, allowing for effortless operation. The main tuning knob allows for precise frequency selection, while the function buttons provide quick access to various settings and features. The microphone also features dedicated buttons for easy access to commonly used functions.
The menu system of the IC-820H is straightforward and easy to navigate. It allows users to customize various settings and parameters according to their preferences. The menu options are displayed on the LCD screen, and users can navigate through them using the dedicated menu buttons.
In addition to the physical controls, the IC-820H also supports remote control operation. It can be connected to a computer or other external devices via the RS-232C interface, allowing for remote control and programming.
Overall, the user interface and controls of the Icom IC-820H are designed with the user in mind, providing a seamless and enjoyable operating experience.
Performance and Signal Quality
The Icom IC-820H offers exceptional performance and signal quality, making it a top choice for amateur radio enthusiasts. With its advanced receiver and transmitter capabilities, this radio provides clear and reliable communication even in challenging conditions.
One of the standout features of the IC-820H is its excellent sensitivity and selectivity. It can pick up weak signals with ease and filter out unwanted interference, ensuring that you receive only the clearest and strongest signals. This is particularly important in crowded frequency bands where signals can easily get mixed up.
The transmitter of the IC-820H is equally impressive. It delivers a clean and powerful output, allowing you to reach distant stations with ease. The radio offers a wide range of power output options, from 5 watts up to a maximum of 100 watts, giving you the flexibility to adjust your transmission power based on the distance and conditions.
Another notable aspect of the IC-820H is its excellent receiver dynamic range. This means that it can handle strong nearby signals without distortion or overload, ensuring that you can receive weak signals even in the presence of strong ones. This is particularly useful in busy band conditions where multiple stations are transmitting simultaneously.
The IC-820H also features a built-in noise reduction system, which helps to minimize background noise and improve the overall signal quality. This is especially beneficial when operating in noisy environments or during adverse weather conditions.
In terms of signal quality, the IC-820H offers exceptional audio clarity. The radio is equipped with a high-quality speaker that delivers clear and crisp audio, making it easy to understand incoming transmissions. Additionally, the radio supports various modulation modes, including FM, AM, SSB, and CW, allowing you to choose the most suitable mode for your communication needs.
Overall, the performance and signal quality of the Icom IC-820H are outstanding. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced amateur radio operator, this radio will exceed your expectations and provide you with reliable and clear communication.
Receiver and Transmitter Capabilities
The Icom IC-820H is equipped with advanced receiver and transmitter capabilities, making it a versatile and powerful amateur radio transceiver. It operates on both the VHF and UHF bands, allowing for a wide range of communication options.
The receiver of the IC-820H offers excellent sensitivity and selectivity, ensuring clear and crisp reception of signals. It has a built-in noise reduction feature that helps to minimize background noise and improve the overall signal quality. The receiver also has a wide dynamic range, allowing it to handle strong signals without distortion.
On the transmitter side, the IC-820H provides a clean and stable output signal. It has a power output of up to 50 watts, which allows for reliable long-distance communication. The transmitter offers adjustable power levels, allowing the user to choose the appropriate power output for their specific needs.
In addition to its basic receiver and transmitter capabilities, the IC-820H also includes various advanced features. It has a built-in automatic repeater shift function, which simplifies the process of accessing repeaters. The transceiver also supports various modulation modes, including FM, AM, and SSB, providing flexibility in communication options.
Dual Watch and Dual Band Operation
One of the standout features of the IC-820H is its dual watch and dual band operation capability. This allows the user to monitor two different frequencies simultaneously, making it easier to stay connected and keep track of multiple conversations.
The dual band operation feature enables the IC-820H to transmit and receive on two different bands at the same time. This is particularly useful for amateur radio operators who need to monitor and communicate on multiple frequencies or bands.
Memory Channels and Scanning
The IC-820H has a generous number of memory channels, allowing the user to store and quickly access their favorite frequencies. It also supports scanning, which enables the transceiver to automatically search for active frequencies within a specified range.
The scanning function of the IC-820H can be customized to scan specific frequency ranges or memory channels. It also has a priority channel feature, which allows the user to designate a specific channel as a priority and monitor it continuously while scanning other frequencies.
Packet Radio and Data Modes
For those interested in digital communication, the IC-820H supports packet radio and various data modes. It has a built-in TNC (Terminal Node Controller) that allows for packet radio operation, enabling the user to send and receive digital data over the airwaves.
The transceiver also supports data modes such as RTTY (Radio Teletype) and CW (Continuous Wave), providing additional options for communication. These data modes can be useful for activities such as contesting, DXing, and digital experimentation.
| Receiver Capabilities | Transmitter Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Frequency Range: 144-148 MHz (VHF), 430-450 MHz (UHF) | Frequency Range: 144-148 MHz (VHF), 430-450 MHz (UHF) |
| Mode: FM, AM, SSB | Mode: FM, AM, SSB |
| Sensitivity: 0.16 μV (FM), 0.18 μV (SSB/CW) | Power Output: 50 W (VHF), 35 W (UHF) |
| Selectivity: 12 kHz (-6 dB), 30 kHz (-60 dB) | Adjustable Power Levels: 5-50 W (VHF), 5-35 W (UHF) |
| Dynamic Range: 95 dB |
Overall, the Icom IC-820H offers impressive receiver and transmitter capabilities, making it a reliable and versatile choice for amateur radio enthusiasts. Its dual watch and dual band operation, memory channels, scanning, and support for packet radio and data modes further enhance its functionality and usability.
Antenna Options and Compatibility
The Icom IC-820H offers a wide range of antenna options and compatibility, making it a versatile choice for amateur radio enthusiasts. It is designed to work with various types of antennas, including vertical antennas, dipole antennas, Yagi antennas, and more.
The IC-820H also supports antenna switching, which allows users to easily switch between different antennas without the need for manual reconfiguration. This feature is particularly useful for users who want to experiment with different antenna setups or who need to switch between antennas for different purposes, such as local communication or long-distance communication.
In terms of compatibility, the IC-820H is designed to work with a wide range of antenna connectors, including BNC and SO-239 connectors. This ensures that users can easily connect their preferred antennas to the radio without the need for additional adapters or converters.
Additionally, the IC-820H is compatible with various antenna accessories, such as antenna tuners and amplifiers. This allows users to further enhance their antenna setup and optimize their radio performance.
Overall, the Icom IC-820H offers excellent antenna options and compatibility, allowing users to customize their radio setup to meet their specific needs and preferences. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced amateur radio operator, the IC-820H provides the flexibility and versatility you need to achieve optimal signal quality and performance.
Power Supply and Battery Life
The Icom IC-820H is powered by a 13.8V DC power supply, which can be easily connected to a standard AC power outlet. This makes it convenient for use in a variety of settings, whether at home or in a mobile setup.
In terms of battery life, the IC-820H does not have an internal battery and relies solely on external power sources. This means that the battery life will depend on the power supply being used. If you are using a high-capacity power supply, you can expect the IC-820H to operate for extended periods without the need for frequent recharging or battery replacement.
It is worth noting that the IC-820H is designed to be energy-efficient, which helps to maximize battery life. The radio features a low-power standby mode that can be activated when the radio is not in use, further conserving power.
For those who require portable operation, the IC-820H can be powered by a 12V battery pack or a car battery using an appropriate adapter. This allows for flexibility in terms of power supply options, making it suitable for use in various outdoor or emergency situations.
Overall, the power supply and battery life of the Icom IC-820H are reliable and versatile, providing users with the flexibility to operate the radio in a range of settings and power supply configurations.
Additional Features and Functions
The Icom IC-820H is packed with a range of additional features and functions that make it a versatile and powerful amateur radio transceiver. Here are some of the standout features:
Dual Band Operation
Wide Frequency Coverage
Digital Signal Processing
The IC-820H features digital signal processing (DSP) technology, which helps to improve the quality of received signals. DSP filters out unwanted noise and interference, resulting in clearer and more intelligible audio during communication.
Built-in CTCSS and DCS
The IC-820H includes built-in Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System (CTCSS) and Digital Code Squelch (DCS) capabilities. These features allow users to selectively mute unwanted signals and only receive transmissions from specific users or groups, enhancing communication privacy and reducing interference.
Memory Channels
The IC-820H has a generous number of memory channels, allowing users to store and quickly access their favorite frequencies. This makes it easy to switch between different channels and frequencies without the need to manually tune each time.
Automatic Repeater Shift
The IC-820H supports automatic repeater shift, which simplifies the process of using repeaters for extended communication range. The transceiver automatically adjusts the transmit and receive frequencies to match the repeater offset, making it easier to communicate through repeater systems.
Weather Alert Function
The IC-820H includes a weather alert function, which can be used to receive emergency weather alerts and warnings. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency responders, as it provides real-time information about severe weather conditions.
Overall, the Icom IC-820H offers a wide range of additional features and functions that enhance its usability and performance. Whether you’re a seasoned amateur radio operator or a beginner, this transceiver has everything you need to communicate effectively and efficiently.
Pros and Cons of the Icom IC-820H
Pros:
- Wide frequency coverage: The Icom IC-820H offers a wide frequency range, allowing users to access a variety of bands and modes.
- Dual-band operation: With its dual-band capability, this radio allows users to monitor and transmit on two different bands simultaneously.
- Excellent receiver sensitivity: The IC-820H has a highly sensitive receiver, allowing for clear and crisp reception of signals.
- Powerful transmitter: This radio features a powerful transmitter, providing a strong and reliable signal for communication.
- Easy to use interface: The user interface of the IC-820H is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy for both beginners and experienced operators to navigate.
- Compact and portable design: The IC-820H is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport and set up in different locations.
- High-quality build: Icom is known for producing radios with excellent build quality, and the IC-820H is no exception. It is built to last and withstand the rigors of regular use.
Cons:
- Expensive: The Icom IC-820H is a high-end radio, and its price reflects that. It may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.
- Complex features: While the IC-820H offers a wide range of features, some users may find them overwhelming or difficult to understand, especially if they are new to amateur radio.
- Limited availability: The IC-820H may not be readily available in all regions, making it harder to purchase or find support for.
- Requires additional accessories: To fully utilize the capabilities of the IC-820H, users may need to purchase additional accessories such as antennas or power supplies, which can add to the overall cost.
Overall, the Icom IC-820H is a high-quality radio with a wide range of features and capabilities. While it may not be suitable for everyone due to its price and complexity, those who are willing to invest in a reliable and versatile radio will find the IC-820H to be a valuable addition to their amateur radio setup.
Tips and Tricks for Using the Icom IC-820H
1. Familiarize Yourself with the User Manual
2. Customize the User Interface
The IC-820H offers a customizable user interface, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences. Take the time to explore the various settings and options available, such as display brightness, button assignments, and menu configurations. This will help you create a personalized setup that suits your operating style.
3. Experiment with Different Antenna Options
The IC-820H is compatible with a wide range of antenna options. Experimenting with different antennas can help you optimize your signal quality and improve your overall performance. Try using different types of antennas, such as dipoles, verticals, or beams, to find the one that works best for your specific operating conditions.
4. Utilize the Dual Watch Feature
The IC-820H has a dual watch feature that allows you to monitor two frequencies simultaneously. This can be particularly useful during contests or when monitoring multiple bands. Take advantage of this feature by setting up one VFO for your main frequency and another for a secondary frequency that you want to monitor.
5. Take Advantage of Memory Channels
The IC-820H has a memory channel function that allows you to store frequently used frequencies for quick and easy access. Take the time to program your favorite frequencies into the memory channels, making it convenient to switch between them without having to manually tune each time.
6. Use the Built-in Noise Blanker
If you are operating in a noisy environment, the IC-820H’s built-in noise blanker can help reduce unwanted interference. Experiment with the noise blanker settings to find the optimal level for your specific operating conditions.
7. Connect to a Computer for Enhanced Control
The IC-820H can be connected to a computer via a serial interface, allowing for enhanced control and functionality. By connecting to a computer, you can use software programs to control the transceiver, log contacts, and even decode digital modes. Explore the various software options available to enhance your operating experience.
8. Join Online Communities and Forums
By following these tips and tricks, you can maximize your experience with the Icom IC-820H. Whether you are a casual operator or a dedicated enthusiast, these suggestions will help you make the most of this versatile transceiver.
Over the years, I have amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge, which I eagerly share with fellow radio aficionados. Through my writing and active participation in the amateur radio community, I strive to inspire others and provide valuable insights into this fascinating hobby. Engaging in various radio activities, I continue to learn and grow, constantly amazed by the endless possibilities that radio communication offers.