[ICOM] IC-207H Programming

[Gary P. Fiber]

On 4/20/2011 8:42 AM, Mike Clarson wrote:
> Greetings: I have an ICOM IC-207H I would like to program via computer. I do
> not have the OPC-646 programming cable, but it is not that complicated. I
> have the parts to construct one (except the fancy connector). I have not
> been able to locate an instruction sheet for the OPC-646. Some questions:
>
> Does the OPC-646 install between the head and the radio, or does it connect
> just to the radio and computer, and the head is not used?
Connects just to the radio
> If the head is not used, how does one turn on the radio for programming, or
> is that not necessary?
The programming software powers on and off the radio in programming mode

If it connects between the head and radio, does it isolate the head's data

Does not connect that way but the eeprom is located on the main unit not 
the control head.
> connections from the radio?
The control head is removed when computer programming the IC-207.
> Any idea why ICOM decided to program the radio this way instead of via the
> microphone cable like most other radios?
Probably because the necessary data was already on that connector and 
would have taken more parts to make programming available through the 
mic connector.
I suspect parts count and cost even though maybe be pennies was the real 
issue.
When I was there even though Land Mobile radio may program through the 
mic, the engineering teams did not always consult with each other.
Would have been nice for a standard company wide programming port to be 
established.

Tidbit....The Marine SSB engineering team did nothing with the Amateur 
SSB products.
They produced similar products and many times use the same PLL system. 
But one team did not engineering for the other divisions products.
That may have changed over the last 10 years or so.
> I have a spare head I can modify to add connections for programming, but I
> need the above info to do it right.
You would need to figure out a way to make some sort of cable, maybe RT 
Systems sells programming cables cheaper than Icom you could assemble 
for your needs.

> I am not opposed to purchasing a programming cable or a head extension cable
> if it is modifiable and inexpensive enough, but ICOMs pricing is excessive
> (compared to the $75 I paid for the radio), if these parts are even still
> available.

Accessories usually sell for Manufacturers Suggested retail price. Most 
dealers really make their money on the accessories as the " Main Frames" 
are heavily discounted.
Mostly dealers are lucky to make 8% on a radio. I know most don't 
believe that but its quite true.

I know that not what your were hoping for. I was at Icom when the IC-207 
was selling, though Icom America was consulted on very few things like 
programming cables. Mostly today the OPC-478 or the USB version is used 
along with various adapters to fit different products.

Gary K8IZ

> Any information appreciated. --Mike, WV2ZOW
>
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-- 
Gary P. Fiber K8IZ

General Radio Telephone Operators License PG-19-6691,
with Shipboard Radar Endorsement.
Washington State Resident.

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