programming the ID-880H through the data port.

[colin211252]

Greetings,
I would like to convert my OPC-478UC (ID-880H programming cable) to a 2.5mm so that I can plug it into the data socket of my ID-880H . I replaced the 3.5mm with a 2.5.. plug but it doesn't seem to work. I have changed the settings as per page 134 of the manual, but I can't seem to get it going. Has anyone else had success using the OPC-478UC this way. Can someone give me the pin connections please?

Thanks Colin/VK4ZPU

 

[troubleshooter1]

I have an ID-880H (two, actually) and it can be programmed via either the 3.5mm (speaker) jack or the 2.5mm (data) jack interchangeably. There were no Set Menu changes necessary. But your OPC-478UC uses bidirectional data on the 3.5mm ring with no connection to tip, and sleeve as ground. I believe it uses TTL levels. To program using the 2.5mm connector, an OPC1529R cable or equivalent is needed, and it uses RS-232 levels, with separate lines for Tx and Rx data. Fortunately these are really easy to make. I use audio ("stereo") cords with pre-attached molded 2.5mm plugs, which makes two data cables when cut in half. You can use three wires and a 2.5mm plug, of course. The 2.5mm plug tip goes to pin 3 of a DB-9 female connector (DE-9S or equiv.), ring to pin 2, and sleeve to pin 5. You'll probably want a backshell for the Sub-D connector as well. If your computer doesn't have an RS-232 port you will also need a USB-Serial converter. See: Home build an OPC-1529R cable.

You can also make a GPS cable (with the other half of the premade cable you cut in half above) by substituting a male DB-9 for the female, and reversing the pin 2 and 3 connections. This is equivalent to an Icom OPC1529R cable plus a gender changer adapter plus a null modem cable adapter as specified in the manual, but much less expensive. I use a Garmin GPS with a DB-9 female connector and 12V cigar lighter power plug for DPRS. This required going into the Set parameters and changing the data port speed from 9600 (default) to 4800.

Your OPC-478UC cable is a valuable unit to have. I would recommend replacing its 3.5mm plug and keeping it for future use, as many Icom mobiles and portables, both amateur and commercial, require it for programming.

73 de VE3HTR

 

[colin211252]

ID-880H programming

Many thanks OM for your very detailed replay. That's exactly the info I need and I'm sure it will be a useful addition to the database on this forum.

73's Colin/VK4ZPU