A while ago I tried FT8 with the IC-705 using a USB cable from the PC. As the noise level was high, I stuck with the FT817ND and SignaLink instead. As I have now got a good screened and choked USB cable, I shall try again later.
UPDATE 0858z: Well it works on TX with a spot by G0FWX (160km), and I think it works on RX, although nobody spotted yet. At the moment it gives 5W without the ALC coming on. Assuming all is fine, I shall probably download WSJT-Z, which goes back onto CQ TX after a QSO. With WSJT-X it goes to RX after a QSO.
UPDATE 1005z: Working on both RX and TX. Initially I was seeing none of my RX spots on PSKreporter, but there are lots now as well as lots of TX spots. Best DX on TX is a spot of me by ZS6KVZ (9120km). No QSOs yet. I wonder how much better FT8 is than SSB? Having worked ZL with 10W SSB some years ago, I am pretty sure I can get DXCC on 10m FT8 if I tried. Not sure I really want to try. 10m FT8 at 5W seems too easy!
Hi Roger,
ReplyDeleteIs this with the BD7 Maple USB cable.If so did you wind it on a FT140-43 aswel?
Glad you are able to upgrade from the 2.5w on digi modes from the FT-817. Atleast with the IC-705 you can vary the power alot more easier.
I know the IC-705 doesnt get that warm but with the screen on and TX duty cycles, I would like to see ICOM produce a empty battery cell case that has a quiet 5v/12v fan housed inside and powered from the battery pins on the back of the radio just to give some air flow.
I use the 705 as a shack radio alongside my IC-7300 and know many have this as there main shack. Think Icom thought most people who use it outdoors so heat wouldnt be a problem.
Jason
M0NYW
Yes, it is. I clipped on a ferrite bead at the transceiver end and one on the antenna coax into the rig. I am not convinced these are needed, but it was a case of belt and braces. I ought to remove these to see what difference they make.
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