Icom IC-7610

Whether dealing with adverse band conditions or responding to a weak signal in a contest or on a saturated frequency, weak signals have always been a challenge for DXers and contesters worldwide. The difference between logging the QSO or having to try again is the capability of the receiver. A key factor is the RMDR values, namely the ability to detect a weak signal in the presence of stronger adjacent signals.

With the IC-7610, Icom introduces the dual direct RF sampling receiver, achieving 110 dB RMDR, in direct competition with that of top-tier transceivers.

Innovative Direct RF Sampling System

Introduced with the IC-7300, Icom's direct RF sampling system has made SDR performance accessible to everyone. Direct sampling means that incoming RF signals are digitized by the analog-to-digital converter and immediately processed by the FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). This process drastically reduces the distortion that naturally occurs in the various mixer stages found in traditional superheterodyne receivers.

Exceptional RMDR Value

The direct RF sampling system in the IC-7610 boasts an RMDR value of 110 dB. This performance gives you the ability to extract weak signals from the noise caused by strong adjacent signals. And it's a difference you notice immediately!

Custom VCXO for Master Clock

Reducing phase noise in a receiver has always been a challenge as it is a natural characteristic of a receiver. The IC-7610's master clock uses a low phase noise VCXO (OCXO). This technical solution, combined with years of Icom experience, has enabled the design of a common power supply for VCXO and FPGA, producing ultra-low phase noise. Additionally, you can connect a 10 MHz reference source for greater accuracy.

Dual Independent Receiver

Whether you're listening to a rare DX station working split or searching for a multiplier on a different band or mode, the IC-7610's dual receiver is your ally. Two separate DIGI-SEL preselector and two separate bandpass filter networks feed two independent A/D converters in the FPGA.

DIGI-SEL for Main and Sub Bands

DIGI-SEL preselectors are RF filters with narrow-band characteristics and high slope, which prevent the A/D converter from being overloaded by strong out-of-band signals during sampling. Furthermore, third-order and higher IMD levels are reduced. These are ideal characteristics in the presence of strong adjacent signals during contests.

High-Quality Speaker

The IC-7610 is equipped with a quality speaker enclosed in its own closed volume. This cabinet has been designed to produce clear and natural sound and is isolated from the radio chassis to prevent vibration and resonance.

Digital-Up-Conversion (DUC)

Breaking the tradition of mixing a carrier with a signal generated by a local oscillator, the DUC (Digital-Up-Conversion) technique is used to generate the signal required by the D/A converter.

Automatic Tuner

The built-in automatic tuner has its own tuning memory based on the operating band. This way when you return to the same band, tuning will be faster. The tuner also has an emergency mode that allows you to operate for short periods with a high SWR antenna.

7-inch Color Display with Touch Screen Function

The large 7-inch high-resolution color display (800 × 480 pixels) allows you to display various information about the device's status and settings. The display also has other features, such as the spectrum analyzer (also dual) aligned vertically or horizontally, virtual analog instruments or decoded RTTY and PSK31/63 messages.

Dual Receiver, Dual Spectrum Analyzer

As already mentioned, the IC-7610 offers dual reception on different bands, but also a dual high-speed and high-resolution spectrum analyzer. Whether searching for a band opening, working a rare DX station operating split, or searching for a multiplier, the ability to view each receiver separately allows the operator to focus on the desired weak signal. The analyzers deliver top-of-category performance in terms of resolution, scan speed and a dynamic range of 100 dB. To move more easily across the band, you can connect a PC mouse to the USB port for point-and-click tuning of receivers.

Flexible Audio Analyzer

The audio scope display shows both an FFT analysis of the signal with its waterfall and an oscilloscope that displays the transmitted and received signal. This simplifies monitoring of AF characteristics such as microphone compressor level, filter width, notch filter and in CW you can monitor keying.

Multifunction Control for More Convenient Operation

The combination of the multifunction control and the touch screen allows for quick and simple operation. Pressing the multifunction control displays menu items on the right side of the display. You can select an item with a screen touch and adjust levels by rotating the multi-dial knob.

Remote Encoder for Second VFO Control

The optional RC-28 remote encoder allows you to add a second tuning control for direct control of the second receiver. The main band and sub-band can be switched with the F1 and F2 buttons. The LED above the F1 and F2 buttons indicate the active band.

DVI-D Connector for External Display Connection

The IC-7610 has a DVI-D connector for an external display. Operating frequency, setting information and spectrum analyzer can be observed on a large external screen.

SD Memory Card Slot

The IC-7610 can store various information on the SD card, such as received and transmitted audio, voice memories, RTTY/CW memories, RTTY decoding logs and captured screenshots. It is also possible to save custom configuration and firmware updates to the SD card.

I/Q Signal Output

You can configure the IC-7610 USB port to provide I/Q signals. This feature can be used to analyze a portion of the spectrum or to decode signals using appropriate software on a PC.

Simplified Remote Control for RS-BA1

Either from another room within your QTH or from a remote location somewhere in the world, the RS-BA1 software allows you to use your IC-7610. Not only will you be able to control the radio settings and have both RX/TX audio signals, but you will also be able to view the single-band spectrum analyzer and waterfall. When connected to an Ethernet network, no computer at the base station is needed.

Icom Inc. has published three technical reports on the IC-7610 HF/50MHz SDR transceiver with detailed information and specifications. To download these reports, click on the following links:

• IC-7610 Technical Report Volume 1

• IC-7610 Technical Report Volume 2

• IC-7610 Technical Report Volume 3