[ICOM] Programming the IC-W32A

[Stephen Budensiek]

Hello Reflector,
   I have a question related to the OPC-478 cable (I think).   I had the 
cable and software come with a IC-W32A handi-talkie I bought a couple years 
ago.   Liked being able to do all the setup on the laptop, then upload to 
the radio.
   A couple weeks ago, I got a IC-T81A, then ordered the Icom Cloning 
software CS-T81 software for it.   I understood I could use the same 
OPC-478 cable for it.   Got the software, loaded it, but can't talk from 
the T81A to the laptop.   So I went back to the W32A and tried using that. 
  It doesn't work either now.
   Is there anyway to check the OPC-478 cable, see if it is good or bad. 
  Maybe someone has published how to build the RS-232>TTL converter in a 
homebrewed cable?   I could try that.   I've tried 3 different machines on 
the Com port.   None of them will communicate, but work OK for other 
things.   Anyone any ideals?

73's de Stephen, K0SD in NC

-----Original Message-----
From:	Gary Fiber [SMTP:g.fiber at verizon.net]
Sent:	Wednesday, August 04, 2004 10:47 PM
To:	ICOM Reflector
Subject:	Re: [ICOM] Programming the IC-W32A

The OPC-478 cable is more than wiring, it contains a RS-232 to TTL level
converter in the DB-9 connector.
Icom never made the protocol available so others can write programs for the 
W32A.
The windows program was written by RT Systems so far as I know. How they
got the protocol I don't know but when I was working at Icom, the W32A
protocol was not available to anyone. We did not have it in Bellevue
either. Icom offered a DOS programming program for the W32A at one time.

Gary K8IZ



>During the discussion on "Handi-Talkie"s today, it was mentioned that you
>can program the IC-W32A. I thought that sounded neat so I Googled up some
>info. All I have found so far is that Icom will sell you an OPC-478
>interface cable and what appears to be a very dated 16-bit Windows 
program.
>I was wondering if:
>
>a) Does anyone know how the OPC-478 cable is wired?
>
>b) Does anyone have information on the programming protocol?
>
>I'm a software developer and would like to write my own 32-bit version
>(it'll be freeware, if I can get the info to do it).
>
>Thanks and 73,
>-- Dave, WA0TTN
>
>----
>Your Moderator: Dick Flanagan K7VC, icom-owner at mailman.qth.net
>Icom Users Net: Sundays, 1700Z, 14.316 MHz
>Icom FAQ: http://www.qsl.net/icom/

Gary Fiber K8IZ
GROL PG-19-6691
Washington State Resident


----
Your Moderator: Dick Flanagan K7VC, icom-owner at mailman.qth.net
Icom Users Net: Sundays, 1700Z, 14.316 MHz
Icom FAQ: http://www.qsl.net/icom/