ICOM Programming issues...need help.

[CSFD390]

Hi all, in need of assistance. I have 6 ICOM IC-F3021S portable radios, that are in need of programming.

Before anyone throws at me for not being a "licensed ICOM tech., I understand, and do not need that as answer, or "take it to a certified dealer". That's not why im here.

I have acquired the software, and cable from a member in our station, all software and cables, (OPC-478UC) ARE LEGAL, AND WERE PURCHASED DIRECTLY FROM ICOM. These radios are being used for the sole purpose of supplying exterior members, and first responders with a way to communicate until we order new radios. I have installed the cable driver CD, and the actual software as well to my Windows XP Desktop. I have registered a proper ID code, etc. I am currently been at this software, for about 2 hours trying everything i can think of. I have my radio, plugged into the proper speaker jack, located on the side, in the proper hole, and the USB plugged into my computer. I believe im in COM 3, due to when I try all other COM Ports, they state, "Cannot detect COM PORT 2" for example. SO, im properly hooked up, and i select COM PORT 3, it takes a few seconds, and i get another error message, that states, "No answer from transceiver".

These radios have not been reprogrammed, or touched in any form as far as programming, and I have the current software in which they were programmed with.

I've tried 3 different radios, all stating the same thing.

"No answer from transceiver", please check the COM PORT SETTINGS, CLONING CABLE CONNECTIONS, TRANSCEIVER IS ON.

Im at a loss as to what to do. I have plenty of experience with programming Motorola radios.....but this has me stumped.


ANY help is appreciated.


Regards, Michael.

 

[methusaleh]

Michael,

Did you acquire the radios brand new?

I love my Icoms, but have found that no other brand has given me as many problems with the inside of the port (for lack of a better term...where the programming cable goes) eventually breaking connection. Experience has taught that many otherwise fine Icom HTs make it to eBay because of such issues.

 

[ScanWI]

Open up your device manager on your computer and click on com ports this will tell you for sure what com port you are on. It is most likely above 10.

Once you have the correct com port, click on Com Port in the software and then click on More a window will pop up and you can enter the com port that has been assigned by the computer.

You should be all set then.

 

[CSFD390]

Thanks!! I got it. Now I'm trying to determine what I can use to power a mobile radio, in my house until I get my new truck. Any recommendations on something cheap that would allow me to power a ICOM Mobile?

 

[ScanWI]

A used car battery always worked well but other then that you would be looking for a 12 volt power supply. They can be expensive, if you will only be listening you could get a 3amp one cheap. But if you plan on transmitting you will want at least a 10 amp unit which will be more expensive.

 

[ScanWI]

These are going to be your cheapest power supplies.

13.8VDC 15-Amp Power Supply : Power Supplies | RadioShack.com

13.8VDC 3-Amp Power Supply : Power Supplies | RadioShack.com

If you want to get a better quality one I would look for a Astron Power Supply.

 

[iamhere300]

Michael,

Did you acquire the radios brand new?

I love my Icoms, but have found that no other brand has given me as many problems with the inside of the port (for lack of a better term...where the programming cable goes) eventually breaking connection. Experience has taught that many otherwise fine Icom HTs make it to eBay because of such issues.

I have seen little problems programming HT's from Icom, with the exception of the F50 line - that was terrible. Luckily it is an easy fix to resolder. Icom has been very easy on warranty for this issue.

 

[iamhere300]

Thanks!! I got it. Now I'm trying to determine what I can use to power a mobile radio, in my house until I get my new truck. Any recommendations on something cheap that would allow me to power a ICOM Mobile?

If you can get your hands on a SL11 or RM12 or RS12 from Astron you will be very happy. We use a ton of the SL11 power supplies with control stations.