Getting to Know You: The Icom IC-705 QRP Field Transceiver--my thoughts and a POTA activation!

[@ThomasK4SWL]

qrper.com/2023/07/getting-to-know-you-series-the-icom-ic-705-my-thoughts-notes-and-a-pota-activation/?swcfpc=1 Click the link above to read full details about this activation, including all equipment links, at QRPer.com.

[@ChrisWeissLovesBacon]

"I dont know why I'm filming this" (picking up trash). Well, it's because you're a good human. Thank you! When I was a kid and went camping with my parents, they'd pay me and my siblings a penny for each bottle cap we picked up. It got us outta their hair while they set up camp and helped make things look just a little bit better than when we arrived. I think that instilled a pretty decent respect for keeping public places clean as I've always taken a few extra steps to pick up random trash when out in the wilds. Also - Thank you for the great videos - There's a ton of "getting started with the IC-705" that run through every damn feature, no matter how irrelevant. Yours is one of the few I've found that actually walks through it _in use_ for folks unfamiliar with the radio.

[@thequarantinecatholic]

Antenna Deployment Section is Gold !! Thanks for not editing your videos and keeping it real!!

[@machoneboard]

I’m relatively new to the hobby and I bought a 705. This is a great radio for those starting out as it has everything.

[@SteveBerwick]

It's the only HF radio I own. I assumed if I couldn't make any contacts I would trade it in for a 7300, however, at this point in the solar cycle, I have been incredibly productive. I'm 2 states away from completing the US-50, just rocked the 13-Colonies special event, and my son and I spoke to a guy in Germany on 15m running 10watts with an EFHW in the backyard. And I've only had the radio for a few months!

[@wilduc7302]

Been watching your videos for months and recently bought the 705. It’s a powerhouse for outdoors and at home, good enough for me.

[@w4arb]

This video convinced me to buy an IC-705. Thanks Thomas! 72 my friend.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

The IC-705 is a gem of a radio!

[@mariaviklund4546]

I'm absolutley in love with my 705. ♥

[@AlejandroGonzalez-AGS]

I own a 705 and very glad I purchased it… is a great radio packed with many features! I also just purchased a KX2, waiting for delivery as the backlog is large. I should be all set with these two radios. Now learning morse code…Thomas, your videos have been an inspiration and learning experience for me. Very well done and to the point….love your style and easy approach. Be safe ..Cheers .. Alex, K9YTT

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thank you so much, OM! :)

[@chrisdavis6789]

Thanks for the content!! Side note, I always carry a Extension Grabber and clean up nearly every where I go. I have to go deep... in the woods to find a place that isn't trashed around the cities.

[@makskk6spm275]

All your videos are great. Thank you! 73.

[@VE3NMW]

Thank you Thomas for your thoughts on this radio! Very Informative!!

[@full_metal2452]

Happy I found your channel! Just got a 705 myself and long term goal is CW

[@ThomasK4SWL]

You got this! There are amazing resources out there for learning CW. You can do it!

[@owlcricker-k7ulm]

That's just One Toss Tommy practicing his precision long-range accuracy, folks. There's nothing to worry about.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

HA HA HA!!!!!

[@alanb76]

Great video Thomas. One thing I'd like to see is a video comparing the paddles you like. Things you like or don't about the various ones. Thanks!

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Noted! I've put this in my video ideas list, but please ping me should I forget.

[@jasonbrambach6957]

I am always cleaning up after the slobs of the world! It is bewildering and daunting. Thanks for the extra help and for encouraging us to be stellar people.

[@sgtroc4699]

I own an Ic705, love it. Also own other radios, the 705 is my only QRP radio. Also own a couple of Yaesu radios and the ID52A. Always enjoy your videos, Thanks. (K4SFR)

[@IrregularInterest]

Great video Thomas, and many props to you for cleaning up that area of the park!

[@k_meowington]

I just hope ICOM will make a 50-100W portable radio like this (in the size of IC-706MIIG)

[@rabbit6914]

The 705 is great. I like the simple orange foot that is shown. A short tabletop tripod (in the $10-$15 range) adds even more flexibility to the viewing angle with a minimal increase in weight or bulk.

[@joeblow8593]

I own one, I was lucky to get it in January 2021before the rate increase and I also got a free Icom lantern with the deal. A first rate radio, the built in filters are most welcome. Besides hamming, like you said. This is a great radio for FM DXing too. I've also logged a bunch of LF beacons, some out to 1000 miles on it. I just wish they would have made it more rugged and with a built-in tuner. I rate it a 9.5 out of 10. Even still, I still want a KX2.

[@VoiceOverTrailReviews]

I bought a 705 in February and I like it, but I just ordered a KX-2 and I’m crossing my fingers it’ll be here in time for ski season!

[@KQ4KXA]

I just recently found your videos im in Asheville and good to find some in the same state doing ham videos im in the process of getting my tech license enjoy CB and thought why not go for ham license

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Yes! Go for your ham license. It's so easy in Asheville to set up an exam too. They're offered each week at the Ingles on Brevard Road (across from the outlet mall). You can do this!

[@w4mkh]

It is so refreshing to hear you bragging on a radio I actually own.

[@monolitesounds]

great video

[@JimbobandJo]

Good man for cleaning up !!

[@tomtierney2624]

Nice to hear the change in speeds to accommodate the slower operators like me.

[@JohnSmith-xi2oq]

Im borrowing one from the local club and really like it. Ive gotta see a comparo between a 705 and a kx2 ofr kx3

[@gotti84121]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences with the ICOM IC-705. Great subject matter and applicable tribal knowledge of the product’s features. 73 AI7UF

[@robertallbright]

Fascinating stuff Thanks Tom I listen to your activations while out walking 👍 72 Rob G3RCE

[@johnnyv.223]

Great video. Very informative. There might be a tempered glass cell phone screen protector that would for the screen of this radio. If you're still concerned about potentially damaging it.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I think some people have used soft screen protectors on the IC-705, but since it's a pressure-sensitive touch pad (and not capacitive) any additional screen layers made of something like gorilla glass would likely decrease the accuracy of each press. I don't honestly worry too much about the screen being damaged under normal use.

[@n1bsbri]

I think I had a cameo appearance in this video at 37:00. I was activating a park in RI on 14.058 at that time and I caught "de n1..." before you moved away. Indeed I didn't hear you. I thought it was interesting to hear. -‐n1bs

[@n1bsbri]

I watched ahead of this point again, and you were listening on 14058.49, but during the CQ you bumped the dial and did an abrupt move down to 14058.13. --n1bs

[@KC2BKM]

Man its beautiful there! I dont mind Text I actually prefer them HATE talking on the phone.

[@ksink74]

The X6100 uses a barrel connector, and the only advantage it has over the 705 is an ATU.

[@VoiceOverTrailReviews]

I had an X6100 and it was so awful I returned it and bought a 705 like I should have in the first place.

[@keithdalton3004]

I have the I c705 I love it and 746 pro and 706 mark 2g . And work on cw. Id52A .

[@bowbreaker1]

KM4OIA here, I'm so conflicted. I have a xiegu g90 and x6100. Both great radios. I'm so tempted to sell both and purchase an ic705. Lots of similarly, for sure, the 705 lacks a tuner, but in the field, I use resonate anteana.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I've known few people who had buyer's remorse after buying an IC-705. :) Let's also see how the X6200 pans out. I just got a prototype.

[@VE9ASN]

Usb-c 20watt Built in tuner 21700 removable batteries. Is Icom listening? 73

[@ukfan-0146]

Revisiting this video and I was just wondering. you need merchandise with "Real Time Real Life" logo

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I do!!! :) Thanks!

[@ukfan-0146]

@@ThomasK4SWL I think I overheard you mention at Hamvention that several people came up to you and said the phrase. I'd rock a sticker or shirt

[@k6usy]

ID-52 does indeed use the same battery.

[@kirkswater]

Hi Thomas - my 705 arrived a few weeks ago. I did buy USA version (supposedly a demo open box, but looks brand new), deciding not to take a chance on an import unit. Working on taking my Tech Lic Test. I'm going to setup unit initially as a base unit. I've decided to start by mounting an Ed Fong dual band antenna up on the roof. It will be up about 20 feet or so mounted to one of those collapsing flag poles that Harbor Freight sells. On the 705, do I need to add another grounding wire (or other copper wire) to that other connection available, or just the antenna cable connection itself? I did purchase the heavy Coax with proper connections on both ends. Appreciate you Brother - look forward to meeting at some point. I'll be sure to bring my gloves and extra garbage bag. Merry Christmas to you and family. Thanks for your great videos! LOL.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Great job on getting the IC-705. It's a brilliant radio. The ground lug on the radio could be used to connect to a station ground or a counterpoise. Grounding/Bonding your gear can help with lowering the noise floor when you're in an urban QRM environment. And yes to the gloves and trash bags, OM! Thanks for your comment!

[@w1rcp]

@47:00 That’s why I have 15 seconds between my CQs lol. Ya missed the one. Also, I gave you all the whiskeys the 7300 could pump out. Couldn’t hear you on 20, but I have you in Ham Alert so when you’re on I come running. -Rob W1RCP

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Ouch. Sorry I missed you, Rob! Next time, though!

[@w1rcp]

@@ThomasK4SWL nah. You got me. We just had to repeat the call. Haha

[@ThomasK4SWL]

@@w1rcp RR! I didn't go back and check the video. Glad I got you. First of many contacts to come!

[@JohnTrefethen]

Thanks for the steady stream of good content, Thomas. Do you ever activate on SSB, and if so, what antenna and band do you prefer?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I do activate SSB, but not as often as I used to mainly because I love CW so much. I use the same power output (5W) and antennas as I do with CW. When doing POTA and SOTA, you are the DX, so you can truly get away with 5 or 10W power output in SSB.

[@Rickfordg]

Tom, it's a good idea to pick up the trash. POTA needs a good reputation as to being park friendly. Well done. What are the paddles your using and how do you like them. I enjoyed your video. WD4RBX

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thanks, OM. Here are the paddles I'm using in this video (this is an ffiliate link): cwmorse.us/products/cnc-machined-aluminum-pocket-double-paddle-key?ref=pHGSYqNC

[@binder098]

❤as always very entertaining, my copying call signs has been steadily improving by watching ur vids, getting prepared to take my extra exam in august! Kk7hi😊

[@ThomasK4SWL]

All the best walking into your Extra exam! You've got this! :)

[@IowaSheepdog]

Thomas, do you have the magnetic version of the CW Morse CNC key? I am assuming that the CW Morse website lists the magnet option for the return force vs. springs. I like the paddles on yours compared to their original dual paddle key. It looks sturdier and better built.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I need to check this when I'm back home. Feel free to ping me if I forget to reply to this (I easily could, these days!).

[@DedorahNorris]

46:35 absolutely upload your logs. It wouldn't be fun to try an activate a park if there were no hunters. If I make one contact, or nine, or 42 i'm uploading. Can say out of my activations I have 1 unsuccessful. 73 K4SWL still have a spot in my log waiting for you. 73 all DE KO4KKX

[@teamtacoslick]

Nitrile glove is important. With the prevalence of fentanyl you can't be too careful picking up trash.

[@neilgodfreybartley3143]

😎👌🏾🤛🏾🙏🏾

[@neilgodfreybartley3143]

Bug letters ⚖☯️❗😂

[@neilgodfreybartley3143]

Skills ! 👌🏾😎🤛🏾

[@halledwardb]

What size weight was that, I missed it if you stated it. Thanks. I did see the video when you showed all the arborist stuff, and bought some, they are great.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Check out this article which explores all of the variants of weights and line I use: qrper.com/2022/08/arborist-throw-lines-ideal-lengths-and-weights-for-field-radio/

[@kirkswater]

Hi Thomas - I’m considering purchasing buying a brand new IC-705 from Japan to save the money (about 40% savings). ICOM corporate states that their mfg warranty will not work here in US for Japan domestic manufactured radios. I’m not super concerned about the warranty. I’ve never had an issue with any high quality electronics brand I’ve purchased in past but know there’s always a risk. Such is life. However, do you think that there will really be issues with band modes and other usability aspects as they suggest, or could it just be “spin” to keep business for local equipment dealers. What are your thoughts?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Wow--great question and perhaps someone else could chime in. I really wouldn't be too concerned at all. Like you said, it's unlikely that you'd have a warranty issue. If so, that might be a great excuse to visit Tokyo! It's possible the radio may default to band edges that are Japan-specific. Might be worth inquiring directly about those differences and if they can be easily user-changed. I image so.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

You really can’t go wrong with any of the major ham radio retailers. I tend to use DX Engineering. And the BRARC meeting are streamed! That would work for sure. :)

[@jackkelley890]

When you look for a limb to through an EFHW line over are you looking for a good limb or a specific compass direction? Thank you for all your hard work.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I'm just looking for a good limb, The compass direction, I find, makes little difference (some, perhaps, but effectively very little) unless I'm deploying a vertical loop. Great question!

[@qrplife]

Cautionary note for those not as young and in-shape as our friend Thomas: when tossing the line, keep both feet firmly planted on the ground for the whole toss. The little ballet move as the weight goes into ballistic flight can result in a painfully torn or strained calf muscle that takes weeks to heal! Ask me how I know. Two feet on the ground, simple non-wound up, swinging underhand toss can tree the wire just fine.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Ouch! Yes, it's easy enough to keep both feet planted and still launch a great line.

[@matttmj]

If one were to purchase a short wave receiver or this transceiver, will there be better performance in purchasing the transceiver?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

This transceiver has an exceptional receiver. If you like to transmit too, I would whole-heartedly recommend it: swling.com/blog/2021/06/the-icom-ic-705-is-this-really-a-new-holy-grail-swl-bcl-receiver/

[@Meatwad650]

Can you clarify the software used to operate digital modes wirelessly?

[@machoneboard]

The one I use is called SDR Control and it is expensive but works.

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Yes it's SDr-Control. Excellent application!

[@TheJaapioo]

search for "wfview". it is faster than sdr control , and it is wireless with virtual cable and it is FREE..... it works exellent with the icom ic -705

[@martidav1]

Great video as usual. Just added a MacBook Pro to my kit. What’s the go-between software for a virtual wireless com port? With Windows, I used the iCOM software/virtual com port. Thanks again! 73 KI7VLV

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I use the SDR-Control app. It's seamless. Just grab it from the app store on your MacBook. It is $99, but worth it, in my opinion. A beautiful GUI.

[@af4od02]

Hello Tom, thanks for the video and videos. Are you sending 72 or 73 and the completion of each qso. Tnx de af4od 73

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thank you! I send 72. Here's why: qrper.com/2023/04/join-brooks-ko4qcc-on-his-first-cw-pota-activation/

[@af4od02]

@@ThomasK4SWL thank you. I got the meaning now. I thought 72 might have a meaning of low power and or remote portability. Thanks for all the videos. I enjoy watching them.

[@rk3bu]

The same story is in Russia: Whenever I travel , I do exactly the same thing, but with a fishing slingshot with a small stone fixed to the end of the rope. Here I am - Traveling to Kola Peninsular Russia wich is more then 1000 miles away from my QTH-Moscow kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKaWn6awod2cpqc IC-705 is a good "toy". BUT with only 5 wats it is hard to cover a big distance. I do cover it, and sometimes speak with my wife, to say "I am alive :) " the nearest village is tooo.. far away. The mobile phones out of cover.

[@VK5IR]

What sort of coax are you using in this video?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I use RG-316. This particular one is a cable assembly from ABR Industries.

[@TridentMissileTech]

I don’t like the shape. And the fact there is no built in atu. Though I usually use a resonant antenna.

[@alanb76]

How high do you get max with the throw line?

[@ThomasK4SWL]

I've never measured, but my guess would be about 50-55 feet with practice. I often use a 25 meter (shorter) line with my SOTA kits. With that line, I have to be careful not to over-throw so that I don't run out of line.

[@rabbit6914]

@@ThomasK4SWL 55 feet is amazingly high -- a professional level toss. ( I'm lucky to get 35 :)

[@ThomasK4SWL]

@@rabbit6914 It's funny. This morning at K-8012, I was aiming for one branch and snagged a much higher one. I almost deplyed a 40M EFHW as a vertical. It has about 61-62' of wire in it and it and only about 2-3 feet of it went over the branch, so that was about 55' high. It actually wasn't that hard--it's just physics and luck. I was aiming much lower. In truth, though, that is a high shot for me.

[@rabbit6914]

@@ThomasK4SWL It's also rotating the throw-bag to a high angular velocity and then extending and letting go at just the right time with your arm extended at just the right angle. Great throw today. Makes watching the deployment an exciting part of the video, too.

[@DavidKirwanirl]

Some people are trash.

[@ncphotos]

Great video! de W2CSI

[@Pungentmeat]

K4SWL DE K4AOL

[@ellisc.foleyjr9778]

Well yet another one that I did not get into your log on, but I did find you that day and went and listened and to no avail cud ot hr you at all! But at least I found you and had the shot at it!. 72/73 and thanks for sharing. de WA1RKS Ellis

[@ThomasK4SWL]

Thank you for trying, OM!