Description
The Icom IC-9700 is the first VHF/UHF/1200 MHz transceiver to use RF direct sampling for the 144 and 430 MHz bands, with a real-time spectrum scope and waterfall display. The RF direct sampling system has already proven its high performance in Icom's HF transceivers IC-7610 and IC-7300. In addition, the spectrum scope and waterfall are essential tools for operators, helping increase QSO opportunities without missing weak signals.
The radio also includes many other key features, including the 1200 MHz band, a 4.3-inch color TFT touchscreen display, full-duplex operation with dual watch on separate bands, Satellite mode, D-STAR DV (digital voice), DD (digital data), and terminal/access point modes. In addition, a newly designed power amplifier and cooling system provide stable, high-efficiency operation, even during long continuous transmissions.
The IC-9700 is also the perfect companion to the IC-7300/IC-7300 mk2 HF transceiver. With the same dimensions, both radios offer almost identical operation. Using the IC-9700 together with the IC-7300 creates the ultimate compact station covering HF, VHF, UHF, and 1200 MHz bands. The IC-9700 is the only all-mode VHF/UHF transceiver that supports a wide range of VHF/UHF operations, including DX, contests, satellite/EME, and D-STAR.
All-mode transceiver for 144, 430, and 1200 MHz, including Satellite, DV, and DD modes
Without installing any optional unit, you can enjoy multiband operation. The IC-9700 includes D-STAR DV and DD modes (a digital voice/data protocol specification for amateur radio). In addition, Satellite mode is built in. There are three separate antenna connectors for 144, 430, and 1200 MHz.
Icom RF direct sampling technology
The IC-9700 adopts RF direct sampling (for the 144 MHz and 430 MHz bands). With this technology, signals are processed in the digital domain by the ADC and FPGA. Signal processing is therefore very different from conventional superheterodyne designs, where signals are handled by a mixer with nonlinear elements. As a result, signal purity is very high and higher-quality audio can be produced. For 1200 MHz, IF down-conversion sampling is used.
Intuitive touchscreen operation
You can easily set frequency and operating mode by touching the standby screen. The MENU screen makes it easy to change settings, including those for satellite communication and D-STAR operation. Entering memory channel names is easy thanks to the on-screen keyboard.
The very first VHF/UHF transceiver with real-time spectrum scope and waterfall
This is the first time a full real-time spectrum scope with waterfall display, similar to those found in high-end HF transceivers, has been introduced in a VHF/UHF transceiver.
With the high-speed spectrum scope, you can instantly grasp band conditions and set frequency with a simple touch on the screen. You can also view received signal history using the waterfall.
Two independent receivers
The IC-9700 can receive simultaneously on two different bands and in two different modes. For example, you can receive on 1200 MHz in AM while receiving on 144 MHz in FM mode. This function is a major advantage in contests and DX hunting. In addition, the IC-9700 is full duplex, allowing transmission on the main band while receiving on the sub band.
This makes it excellent for satellite operation.
Audio scope function
By making good use of the Audio Scope function, you can monitor several audio signal characteristics, such as microphone compressor level, filter width, notch filter width, and CW keying waveform.
Received and transmitted signals can be displayed on both the FFT analyzer and the oscilloscope.
Newly designed final PA stage
The IC-9700 final amplifier stage is designed for both stability and output power. The cooling system prevents PA temperature rise even during long transmission sessions. This ensures high reliability even under demanding use such as contests. Compared with previous models, energy efficiency has been improved.
D-STAR mode
The IC-9700 features D-STAR Repeater (DR). The DR function can be used on both the main and sub bands. In addition, using DD mode, you can browse the Internet through a repeater station.
Built-in Remote function, Terminal mode, and Access Point mode
A static IP address can be set on the transceiver. If you configure a public IP address on your router, you can use Terminal mode or Access Point mode without additional software applications.
User interface very similar to the IC-7300
The control layout and menu screens are very similar to those of the IC-7300. If you are familiar with that rig, the IC-9700 will also be easy to use. The IC-9700 is the perfect companion to the IC-7300, enabling operation across all bands from HF to 1200 MHz.
Complete functionality for satellite operation
Selectable Main, Sub, Normal, and Reverse Satellite menus simplify satellite operation. Of course, even in Satellite mode, the outstanding spectrum scope can be used.
Normal and reverse tracking functions
In addition to reverse tracking, a normal tracking function is also available for following downlink and uplink frequencies.
AFC function
Automatic Frequency Control follows frequency variation caused by the Doppler effect, maintaining stable reception.
Up to 99 dedicated satellite memory channels
The IC-9700 provides 99 memory channels dedicated to satellite operation, allowing storage of both uplink and downlink frequencies and operating mode.