M700Pro for HAM use

[BocaIII]

I would very much like to hear from Ham radio operators using the M700Pro in VFO mode on the amateur freqs. How easy it to use outside the channelized freqs? I will also be using on the MARS freqs but that should be easy as they can be put into memory.

Thanks,
Jack
W4GRJ

[hellosailor]

Jack-
IIRC, and I sometimes don't, MARS has a very short list of "approved" radios and will only allow those radios to be used in normal service. Approval based on how clean the emissions are, and other technical specs beyond what most ham radios need to be certified to.

Is the M700Pro on the short list?

[BocaIII]

Hello Sailor,

MARS no longer has approved radios- requirement is freq compliance.

Again, my request is to hear from hams using the m700pro or m710pro.

Jack
W4GRJ / AFA4DG

[btrayfors]

Jack,

There are at least 3 versions of the M700Pro. I assume you have one of the two later versions with the keyboard activated.

Icom M700Pro programming steps can be found at Icom M700Pro Programng Instructions

There are also several versions of the M710, but no M710Pro.

I have programmed and used all of these. The M700Pro is a fine radio, and is good for use on the ham bands. Only thing which can be annoying to a ham is the detent on the tuning knob when you use it as a VFO.

But, of course, it's not a ham radio....lacks the bells and whistles normally found on ham rigs, and even the ability to change power levels.

While both the 710 models and the 700Pro models can be made to act as if they had real VFO's, they don't, and the operation will never be as effortless as it is with a true VFO.

Nevertheless, unless you spend all day chasing DX or contesting or such, I think you'll be happy with using the M700Pro on the ham bands.

73,

Bill
WA6CCA

[BocaIII]

Bill,

Thank you very much for your reply! Looks like I have found a m710 made in 2006. Not intending to use for DX, mainly fixed net freqs and QSY's off net freq to pass traffic. Will also be using on winlink with RMS Epress.

I assume there is programming software available to load freqs?

Tnx again!
Jack
W4GRJ

[btrayfors]

Jack,

Yeah, you need software, a cloning cable, and some special "ham" instructions.

Give me a buzz; maybe I can help.

My direct email is bill at wdsg dot com

Gotta love the K3 and Bencher paddle behind your cat!


73,

Bill
WA6CCA