[UK-CONTEST] OT-Dxpedition

Fri Apr 3 03:33:17 PDT 2009

Must have been on Wednesday April 1st.
Pete G3KNU
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Clive Whelan" <clive.whelan at btinternet.com>
Cc: "'UK Contest Reflector'" <uk-contest at contesting.com>
Sent: Thursday, April 02, 2009 11:53 PM
Subject: Re: [UK-CONTEST] OT-Dxpedition


>I think the 756 PROIV was a special edition only on sale on Tuesday of
> this week. I know it was real as  both the Llamedos and Sans Serif
> Islands DXpeditions used them to good effect. Because of a last minute
> hitch all the CW ops got left behind on shore and all CW QSOs ( over 1
> trillion I believe) were made using the built in CW reader. Whatever nest?
>
> 73
>
>
> Clive
> GW3NJW
>
>
> peter Jackson wrote:
>> I undersatnd there is no such rig as the pro iv. The IC7600 replaces the
>> pro111. I like the look of it anyone bought one yet?
>> 73 Pete G3KNU
>> ----- Original Message ----- 
>> From: "Adrian Rees (MW1LCR)" <rees.a at btconnect.com>
>> To: "'Clive Whelan'" <clive.whelan at btinternet.com>; "'UK Contest 
>> Reflector'"
>> <uk-contest at contesting.com>
>> Sent: Thursday, April 02, 2009 4:26 PM
>> Subject: Re: [UK-CONTEST] OT-Dxpedition
>>
>>
>>
>>> Came across this one as well........on a US List.
>>>
>>>
>>> Subject:  Icom 756 PROIV is coming out/CW Support?
>>>
>>> Looks like more of the great stuff you would expect from ICOM.  Better
>>> receive characteristics, brighter display, and integrated support for
>>> digital modes like PSK etc.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> What I don’t understand is the following statement:
>>>
>>> Optional CW module allows for unparalleled CW Integration through 
>>> computer
>>> software.  CW operators will no longer need to know CW to operate this
>>> legacy mode.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Does this mean that the ICOM PRO IV will no longer support CW?
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 73 K6WRJ
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Below is the complete text:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> The 756PRO Series Legacy Continues to Grow
>>>
>>> Icom and the renowned IC-756PRO series continue to make ham radio 
>>> history:
>>>
>>> First 64-bit floating point DSP transceiver
>>>
>>> First transceiver with customizable filter shapes. There were no 
>>> optional
>>> filters to buy, for none were needed.
>>>
>>> First mid-class HF transceiver with +36dBm-class third-order intercept
>>> point*
>>>
>>> First amateur HF transceiver with a large TFT color LCD
>>>
>>> For the new IC-756PROIV, Icom’s combined the cutting-edge receiver
>>> technology of the IC-7800 with the familiar ergonomics of the 
>>> IC-756PROIV.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Take your DXing to the next level with Icom’s IC-756PROIV.
>>>
>>> (*in the 14MHz band)
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> The 756PRO Forth Generation’s Features
>>>
>>> Receiver gives +36dBm third-order intercept point*
>>>
>>> Using receiver design techniques introduced in the IC-7800, Icom’s
>>> engineering team focused on producing a distortion-free,
>>> high-dynamic-range. To achieve this goal, Icom used higher-grade
>>> components in vital receiver sections of the IC- 756PROIV.
>>>
>>> * Under the condition of receive frequency 14.2MHz, input frequencies
>>> 14.3MHz and 14.4MHz, Pre-amp OFF, mode USB BW: 2.4kHz
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Large inductors
>>>
>>> The IC-756PROIV uses large inductors instead of small coils in the
>>> bandpass filter (BPF) stage, because small coils sometimes cause 
>>> magnetic
>>> saturation in the BPF stage. Large inductors can handle both strong
>>> signals and weak signals with lower distortion.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Low-distortion BPF switching
>>>
>>> The BPF switching circuitry is one of the critical points in a receiver
>>> where distortion can be produced by strong out-of-band signals. 
>>> Distortion
>>> at this early receiver stage then propagates throughout the remaining
>>> stages and cannot be removed by signal processing. The IC-756PROIV uses
>>> low distortion diodes with wide frequency characteristics that prevent
>>> formation of distortion components in the BPF stage.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Fundamental-type 64MHz roofing filter
>>>
>>> The IC-756PROIV uses a fundamental mode monolithic crystal filter for 
>>> the
>>> roofing filter. Although it’s more expensive than overtone-mode filters,
>>> the fundamentalmode filter has a better shape factor and is less
>>> susceptible to intermodulation distortion under strong signal 
>>> conditions.
>>> This is the same 15kHz crystal filter used in the IC-7800 roofing filter
>>> circuit.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Two newly designed preamplifiers
>>>
>>> To minimize distortion and maximize dynamic range, the IC-756PROIV
>>> preamplifiers use the same basic circuit design as the IC-7800
>>> preamplifiers. Preamp-1 is a noiseless feedback design, with push-pull
>>> amplifiers. This design has a high intercept point and covers a wide
>>> frequency range. Preamp-2, which uses bipolar transistors for higher 
>>> gain,
>>> is ideal when you use separate low-efficiency receiving antennas such as
>>> small loops or Beverages.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Real time spectrum scope with mini scope function
>>>
>>> The real time spectrum scope is now an indispensable tool for top
>>> performing HF radios. The IC-756PROIV’s spectrum scope adds a mini scope
>>> function, as requested by many PROII users. The mini scope allows you to
>>> monitor the scope screen while you use other function menus. For 
>>> example,
>>> you can monitor the scope screen even while you are changing the IF 
>>> filter
>>> shape and passband width. The scope range can be set in 4 steps ±12.5 
>>> kHz,
>>> ±25 kHz, ±50 kHz and ±100 kHz, centered onthe receiving frequency. In
>>> addition, the spectrum scope has 3 attenuator levels (10dB, 20dB and
>>> 30dB).
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Eight-channel RTTY TX memory
>>>
>>> The IC-756PROIV has 16 channels of RTTY transmit memory. You can edit 
>>> and
>>> send up to a 62 character message for each memory channel without a PC 
>>> or
>>> other external unit*. The transmit memory is displayed on the screen so
>>> you won’t send the wrong message. The built-in RTTY demodulator and
>>> decoder allow you to check the callsign of the station on the air
>>> instantly. A PC or external unit is not also necessary.
>>>
>>> * When writing and sending RTTY messages on site, a Terminal Unit, TNC 
>>> or
>>> PC and dedicated software is required.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Adjustable SSB transmit BW
>>>
>>> The SSB transmit bandwidth is selectable from 100, 300 and 500Hz at the
>>> high-pass edge, and 2500, 2700 and 2900Hz at the low-pass edge
>>> respectively. 3 types of high and low combinations can be stored in the
>>> memory. In addition, the built-in audio equalizer has separate bass and
>>> treble adjustments for a total of 121 combinations, so you can tone your
>>> voice up or down as you want. With this flexible DSP-based waveform
>>> shaping, you can tailor your transmit audio quality to suit your 
>>> operating
>>> style.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Other new features
>>>
>>> New 60 meter band coverage, equivalent transmit power and antenna tuner
>>> capabilities to the other bands.
>>>
>>> (U.S.A. version, USB mode only)
>>>
>>> 2 clocks show different time zones at once, such as local and UTC time
>>>
>>> Inherited Properties From The 756PROII
>>>
>>> 32-bit floating point DSP & 24-bit AD/DA converters
>>>
>>> The heart of the IC-756PROIV is the proven combination of the 32-bit
>>> floating point DSP and 24-bit AD/DA converters. This powerful 
>>> combination
>>> supports many digital processing features exclusive to the IC-756PROIV,
>>> which cannot be achieved with traditional analog processors. The 24- bit
>>> AD/DA converter has an ultra-wide dynamic range. The receiver delivers a
>>> distortion- free, clear sound in any signal condition, from a weak 
>>> signal
>>> to a strong full power station.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> AGC loop management
>>>
>>> The digital IF filter and manual notch filter are included in the AGC 
>>> loop
>>> driven by the DSP. This architecture completely eliminates“AGC pumping”
>>> caused by adjacent strong signals out of the IF filter passband. In
>>> addition, programmable AGC time constants* (slow, medium, and fast
>>> presets) give flexibility and speed needed for working the pile-ups.
>>>
>>> * Except FM mode.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Dual watch
>>>
>>> The dual watch* function allows you to receive 2 signals on the same 
>>> band
>>> simultaneously. You can listen to your favorite net while keeping an eye
>>> or ear on the DX station. The signal strength balance between the main 
>>> and
>>> sub frequencies is adjustable from the balance knob.
>>>
>>> * Same band only
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Digital twin PBT
>>>
>>> DSP-based twin passband tuning (PBT) helps eliminate interference by
>>> changing the IF filter bandwidth and/or shifting the center frequency.
>>> With the digital IF filters, the PBT performance allows you to cut away
>>> all the interference and noise to hear the actual signal. The LCD
>>> indicates the twin PBT conditions across the top of the screen.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Manual notch function
>>>
>>> An incredible 70dB of attenuation is at your command with the manual
>>> notch. Eliminate strong adjacent signals or beat tone noise, without
>>> reducing the performance of the AGC gain.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Sharp and soft filter shapes are selectable for SSB Digital mode
>>>
>>> Select an appropriate filter shape that favors your operating style or
>>> band conditions. Independent SSB and DIGITAL filter gives you the
>>> flexibility.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Sharp and soft filter shapes are selectable for SSB and DIGITAL mode
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Select an appropriate filter shape that favors your operating style or
>>> band conditions. Independent SSB and DIGITAL filter gives you the
>>> flexibility.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> SSB Sharp Filter
>>>
>>> The perfect filter shape factor when signal fidelity or pinpoint 
>>> accuracy
>>> is needed! A sharp slope from the filter edges gives full audio response
>>> while eliminating any adjacent interference.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> DIGITAL Sharp Filter
>>>
>>> The “too good to be true” DIGITAL filter! The steep filter skirts — only
>>> 200Hz from the –6dB to the –60dB points — allow you to hear a weak 
>>> DIGITAL
>>> signal that is surrounded by strong ones. DX hunters will have to try 
>>> this
>>> one to really see the magic of the Sharp DIGITAL filter.
>>>
>>> SSB Soft Filter
>>>
>>> The perfect filter shape factor when trying to pick out a weak signal! 
>>> The
>>> rounded filter shape resembles a traditional analog filter, by rolling 
>>> off
>>> the high and low ends of the passband. Although maintaining the steep
>>> filter skirt characteristics of a digital filter, the soft filter
>>> increases the signal-to noise ratio of the intended signal.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> DIGITAL Soft Filter
>>>
>>> Running a pile-up has become easier with the soft DIGITAL filter. By
>>> broadening the filter skirt, the characteristics of the soft filter
>>> perform much like a mechanical filter without the ringing.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Automatic notch function
>>>
>>> Eliminate annoying AM carriers, amplifier or radio tune up interference
>>> with a push of a button. The automatic notch tracks 2 or more 
>>> interfering
>>> signals simultaneously without intended signal loss or distortion. Very
>>> helpful on 80 and 160 meters.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Adjustable noise reduction
>>>
>>> The 32-bit DSP processing power produces real results by separating 
>>> signal
>>> components from the noise with the variable Noise Reduction. By
>>> suppressing the noise components, an outstanding Signal to- noise ratio 
>>> is
>>> achieved, providing clear, clean audio in all modes without distortion 
>>> of
>>> the target signal.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Optional CW module allows for unparalleled CW Integration through 
>>> computer
>>> software.  CW operators will no longer need to know CW to operate this
>>> legacy mode.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Adjustable noise blanker
>>>
>>> Reduce annoying QRN from pulse-type noise such as engine ignition 
>>> systems
>>> and sparking appliance motors, with the fully adjustable (101 steps) 
>>> noise
>>> blanker.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Digital voice recorder
>>>
>>> The Digital Voice Recorder (DVR) is a very convenient function for
>>> contests, DXpeditions and even normal operation. Record your callsign, 
>>> CQ,
>>> or other station information into four memory locations. A total of 90
>>> seconds is available for the four memories, with each memory channel 
>>> being
>>> soft partitioned to allow custom recording sizes. A quick push of the
>>> front-panel DVR button allows you to record received signal into the R4
>>> memory. The playback automatically mutes the receiver for clear playback
>>> of the previous 15 seconds of recorded audio. The perfect feature for
>>> those contest operators wanting to improve their UBN.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> DIGITAL memory keyer
>>>
>>> A must have feature for the DIGITAL operator, the internal memory keyer
>>> provides 4 memories for programming station information, calling CQ and
>>> callsign. Each memory has a capacity of 55 characters, as well as other
>>> time saving functions such as automatic automatic repeat, serial contest
>>> number autocounter, and morse cut number functions.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Digital RF speech compressor
>>>
>>> The IC-756PROIV utilizes the 32-bit DSP for the RF speech compressor
>>> providing the maximum punch without the fuzzy sound. Great for breaking
>>> through the noise and hash to complete the QSO.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Highly stable transmitter
>>>
>>> For a big, clear signal, the IC-756PROIV uses two 2SC5125 transistors in
>>> the PA Unit. Along with superior IMD characteristics, these transistors
>>> have plenty of power to allow for 100W full duty cycle operation. 
>>> Advanced
>>> design considerations along with an aluminum, die-cast frame, and large
>>> cooling fan, help to stabilize the PA circuit providing full duty cycle
>>> operation.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> High stability crystal unit
>>>
>>> The IC-756PROIV incorporates a high-stability master oscillator, 
>>> providing
>>> ±0.5ppm (–10ºC to +50ºC). A must for RTTY, SSTV or M A R S operation.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Triple band stacking register
>>>
>>> Hop around the band with Icom’s exclusive triple band stacking 
>>> registers.
>>> Each band remembers the last 3 frequencies, mode and other settings 
>>> used.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> SSB data communication
>>>
>>> When the IF filter passband is reduced to 500Hz or less in SSB/SSB data
>>> mode, special bandpass filters are automatically selected. The BPF
>>> automatically sharpen for better rejection of interfering signals. Along
>>> with the BPF, the IC-756PROIV automatically turns off the compression 
>>> and
>>> enables the 1/4-tuning step for easier operation and more accurate 
>>> tuning.
>>> Perfect for PSK31, SSTV or other AFSK modes.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 5-inch TFT color LCD
>>>
>>> Enjoy the full 5-inch TFT color display. The IC-756PROIV has 8 colors of
>>> display settings and 7 types of font settings. Various information is
>>> indicated on the color LCD, separated into an upper and lower screen. 
>>> The
>>> lower screen can spread vertically to increase the information viewing
>>> area.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Other features
>>>
>>> [ Antenna and receiver ]
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Built-in highspeed auto antenna tuner
>>>
>>> 2 TX/RX antenna connectors and RX antenna connector
>>>
>>> 30kHz–60MHz general coverage receiver*
>>>
>>> Built-in RX attenuator (6/12/18dB)
>>>
>>> Twin peak audio filter for RTTY reception
>>>
>>> * Depending on version
>>>
>>> [ Transmitter ]
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Tx monitor function
>>>
>>> Tone encoder
>>>
>>> VOX operation
>>>
>>> All mode power control
>>>
>>> External Control for Voice Memory and Memory Keyer
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> [ Operation ]
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Set mode menu for speedy setting
>>>
>>> Analog and digital meter indicates relative output power, SWR, ALC level
>>> and compression level
>>>
>>> Memory pad stores up to 5 or 10 operating frequencies and modes
>>>
>>> Quick split function
>>>
>>> RF gain and squelch control
>>>
>>> ±9.999kHz Adjustable RIT and ΔTX • 1Hz step tuning and display
>>>
>>> 101 memory channels with 10-character channel name
>>>
>>> Optional Voice synthesizer announces the operating frequency, mode and
>>> signal strength in English
>>>
>>> Program, memory, select memory, Δf scans
>>>
>>> Auto tuning step function Dial lock
>>>
>>> Band edge beep (can be disabled)
>>>
>>> AH-4 control circuit
>>>
>>> Automatic tuning speed
>>>
>>> CI-V interface with optional CT-17 for PC remote control
>>>
>>>
>>> -----Original Message-----
>>> From: uk-contest-bounces at contesting.com
>>> [mailto:uk-contest-bounces at contesting.com] On Behalf Of Clive Whelan
>>> Sent: 01 April 2009 13:19
>>> To: UK Contest Reflector
>>> Subject: [UK-CONTEST] OT-Dxpedition
>>>
>>>
>>> Please excuse the bandwidth to publicise this expedition.
>>>
>>> A group of GWs will activate the Llamedos Islands off the coast of
>>> Pembrokeshire for one day only ( today). The islands consist of two
>>> rocky outcrops exposed only for a period of ten days following the
>>> Spring equinox, and have been  named Nalyd and Samoht after famous
>>> Welsh authors of the past. Unlike Ynys Môn the islands are sufficiently
>>> distant from the coast of Pembrokeshire to qualify for IOTA status and
>>> application has been made to the RSGB for their accreditation
>>>
>>> The islands are known nesting and breeding grounds for Ospreys and Blue
>>> Seals, so some disruption may be inevitable.
>>>
>>> QSLs may go via the bureau or direct to GW9BF QTHR.
>>>
>>> A loaf of lava bread is offered to the first UK station to work the
>>> expedition on all 17 bands ( 160m to 10Ghz)
>>>
>>>
>>> 73
>>>
>>>
>>> Clive
>>> GW3NJW
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> UK-Contest mailing list
>>> UK-Contest at contesting.com
>>> http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/uk-contest
>>>
>>>
>>> -- 
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>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> UK-Contest mailing list
>>> UK-Contest at contesting.com
>>> http://lists.contesting.com/mailman/listinfo/uk-contest
>>>
>>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
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>>
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