Well, sounds like a wonderful application if you are planning on being on
the run from U.S. forces ;)
----- Original Message -----
From: <wb2vuf@gti.net>
To: "Ten Tec" <tentec@contesting.com>
Sent: Monday, November 04, 2002 9:28 PM
Subject: [TenTec] Argo 516 competition and "adventure" operation
> Here's something interesting: ICOM is showing a ne IC-703 on their web
> site. It appears that it is still under development, but it is
> interesting to compare specs with the Argo. The ICOM runs 10 W and will
> run at 9 volts at a reduced power level of 5 W. They advertise a "low
> current consumption circuit design". DSP is audio and may be an option.
> Several I.F. filters are available as options (confirming the lack if
> I.F. DSP). There is a built-in antenna tuner, but it is for "50 ohm
> antennas". The IC-703 is an HF QRP spin-off of the IC-706.
>
> Now here's something really interesting:
>
> "Suitable for not only ham radio operation, but is an excellent unit
> for long distance communications in remote mountainous or desert areas
> where effective communications are not readily available. Also, is
> perfect as a communications solution for specialized applications."
>
> Wow! Can Ten Tec compete with this? Will the 516 also work in "remote
> mountainous or desert areas"? Here's a big area of hype missing from the
> Ten Tec ads.
>
> Seriously, what do they mean? Unless ICOM is talking about the export
> market, there are very few domestic HF services in the U.S. and these
> require type accepted equipment, which limits the field to companies
> like Motorola and Harris.
>
> Of course, SGC has their expensive "paramilitary pack", but I found a
> really cheap way to militarize my Scout. It is easy to modify an
> inexpensive military handset like the H-189 or H-250 to work with
> current Ten Tec rigs, and you can wrap a $2.00 camo bandana around the
> Scout or Argo.
>
> I have used my Scout portable in a cabin in "remote" Bucks county, PA
> and I operated in a "remote" corner of a "remote" parking lot in a
> county park on Field Day.
>
> Still, it might help market share if a portable package were available
> for the 516. All it would take is a padded case with room for a battery
> pack, low power antenna tuner, and accessories.
>
> 73,
>
> Bob WB2VUF
>
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