Icom’s F8101 desktop/mobile HF radio utilizes Automatic Link Establishment (ALE) to automatically select the most appropriate channel for communication. Selcall (Selective Calling) is also available and includes selective, phone, message, position, status, emergency calls and channel test call. The F8101 powers digital signal processor (DSP) technology, which improves transmitter/receiver performance and provides flexible filter settings. For streamlined operation, the radio allows administrators to control functions accessed by the user. The F8101 also features clear talk and three types of mute functions for added convenience.
The compact F8101 is built to MIL-STD 810 specifications and rated IP54 for dust and water resistance. The 125W radio supports a fanless design and performs at full duty cycle voice mode. When combined with the optional external cooling fan unit, the F8101 achieves 100% duty cycle to promote stable, continuous operation in digital and voice mode. Users can check the radio’s condition by using the BITE (Built-in Test Equipment) function.
Icom’s F8101 is GPS compatible (when connected to an external GPS receiver) and can access HF email using a PC via USB port (a third-party module is also required for data communications). Two types of automatic high-speed tuning antennas are available: the AH-760 heavy-duty moving coil antenna and the AH-740 relay-driven compact antenna.
Key Features:
- Free voice, fax, e-mail and data communications
- Regional or worldwide coverage
- User-friendly operation
- Advanced radio operator skills not required
ALE (Automatic Link Establishment):
ALE is a system that automatically selects the most suitable channel and establishes a communication link. ALE provides interoperability with other 2G ALE manufactures compliant with the FED-STD-1045A ALE standard. ALE individual call, net call, sounding and AMD (Automatic message display) are available.
Selcall (Selective Calling)
The IC-F8101 provides CCIR493 based 4/6 digit open standards Selcalls, commonly used in HF networks and calls based on the 4/6 digit scheme used in the Icom IC-F7000. Selcall types: selective calling, phone call, message call, position call, status call, emergency call and channel test call. Stun command remotely disables radio operation.
Compact and Durable:
The IC-F8101 has a durable, enclosed structure securely sealed from intrusion by all potential elements, and is a visibly compact package. The IC-F8101 and the CFUF8100 cooling fan unit has been tested to MIL-STD-810-G and IP54 ratings. Also, connection cables and connectors are IP54 water resistant.
125W of Powerful RF Output:
A full 125W output power at full duty cycle voice mode operation is possible with the fanless design. A 25% duty cycle operation is possible in the data mode (Maximum 5 minutes of continuous transmission). When used with the CFU-F8100 optional external cooling fan unit, the IC-F8101 ensures full duty cycle data and voice mode operations for absolute reliability during long continuous transmit cycles, or for operation in hot climates.
BITE (Built-in Test Equipment) Function:
You can check the transceiver’s condition by using the BITE capability. Auto, logic, receiver, and transmitter are selectable.
User-Friendly Operation:
The IC-F8101 is designed for simple, straightforward operation. The Administrator/User access feature limits the functions that can be accessed by the user. The Administrator can enter the operating frequency and assign memory channels from the front panel or the remote control microphone. The following functions can be assigned to the [I], [II], and [III] function buttons: Main menu, Manager menu, Set mode, Selcall address list, RX history, and TX history.
Clear Talk Function:
The clear talk function separates signals from noise using the DSP, and gives you clearer audio at the touch of a button.
Mute Functions:
The IC-F8101 has 3 types of mute functions: call squelch, S-meter squelch and voice squelch. The call squelch function opens the squelch only when receiving a Selcall or ALE call sent intentionally to this station, and provides quiet standby.
Digital Signal Processor (DSP):
The latest DSP technology improves both the transmitter and receiver performance. The digital IF filter provides flexible filter settings for narrow band signals.
GPS Receiver Connection:
When connected to an external GPS receiver*, the IC-F8101 can send current position data to other stations, and show position information, time, elevation and course heading on the display.
* NMEA 0183 Version 3.01 compatible.
Data Communications:
The IC-F8101 has the capability to install a RapidM TC4 HF Data Modem Module* internally. This allows you to send and receive HF e-mails using a PC.
* A third party product.
USB Port for PC Connection:
The IC-F8101 can be connected to a PC through a USB port for HF e-mail and modulation input.
Many More Features:
- Multiple operating modes (SSB, AM, CW and Data mode)
- 500kHz to 29.999MHz general coverage receiver (TX: 1.6MHz to 29.999MHz) and VFO mode operation
- 500 Selcall, 500 ALE address memories
- ±0.3ppm frequency stability (–30˚C to +60˚C)
- TX Power protection (PA unit high temperature, high SWR, low battery)
- Display mode: SWR, voltage, clock, GPS position, direction and elevation
- FCC part 90 compliant (USA version)
AH-760, Wide Frequency Heavy-Duty Moving Coil Antenna:
200W PEP SSB, 125W PEP CW/DATA
1.6MHz–29.999MHz wide frequency coverage with the supplied whip antenna
350mS high-speed tuning (while memory tuning)
Tested to IP68 and MIL-STD-810G environmental standards
AH-740, Relay-Driven Compact Antenna:
Relay-driven compact automatic tuning antenna
Compact and lightweight (3.5kg)
150mS typical high-speed tuning (while memory tuning)
Low power consumption (0.4A typical)
AH-5NV NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave) Kit:
Fiberglass antenna element (4.5m; 14.8ft) for short range communication within approximately 500km*
* Depending on radio propagation conditions)
Read also: ICOM IC-F8100
Price: TBD