ICA14 Tests

[ZULU1]

Just an update, we have been testing the new Icom ICA14 radios.

A few points

A direct replacement for the ICA3 and should work with most systems

No external power socket available !!!

Supplied with a cradle charger

2000 mah Li Ion battery

Keypad version very nice to use and user friendly standard Icom menu.

Angle plugs required for side sockets

With external cradle will accept up to 15 volts input

Very small screen (the best part of the ICA6/24 series)

Initial viewing is its a better radio than the ICA6/24

NO VOR but can scan those frequencies

Voltage level given on switch on.

May be used with a headset without mods for PPg usage..a relief !!

So the downside is they dont have a external power jack and need to be charged from a cradle.

Where to from here ?, well I want that radio to succeed after two generations of disasters ICA 5/23 and the ICA6/24 and the only option being the Vertex which I like.

Unfortunately most new users get completely lost with the Vertex menus, this is a Icom strong point. But we have emailed Icom Japan as they left out the charging sockets. Are they nuts ??

So realising its not going away, and after lengthy discussions with Multisource, we have designed a rubber panel mount housing. This will allow the radio to clip in. Not unlike a first generation Nokia cell phone holster. The intention is to supply the entire cradle with one cable of six wires, 4 for the interface connection and two for its power supply to the battery.

This will make a stand alone single cable interface and will be compatible with most systems out there. I am getting tooling costs at present as I see no alternative.

Will be testing one tomorrow with our 4 LX series (our local replacement system for the popular UK product). Gaylord Fokker is our Guinea pig...

The price difference between the S (simple) and full pad is R40,00 and not worth the effort so have done no more tests with them.

So there is some hope for them John (Young) !!

Keep the forum posted

Paul (Zulu1)

[John Young]

So there is some hope for them John (Young) !!

Hi ZULU1,

Yip, this is what I feared.

Going with Icom A6 in the GT450 and will acquire a second A6 as a back-up.

Regards
John

[Byron]

What is the Vertex like? Is it a hardy quality product? Does it transmit and receive as clearly as the Icom products?
Which model vertex are you able to supply Zulu1?