I had a 718 when I lived on my Sailboat in CA. I was a new General Class and wound up talking all around the world on that little rig. Now years later and living in West Texas I am just now setting up a shack with an IC-7300, but while buying this radio I couldn't help but walk over and listen to the 718 they had on display. Memories rushed back. You will all enjoy that radio.
I bought a used icom-718 , a few months ago and love it ,And this radio is fun to operate because it really isn't hard to learn , it is a solid radio for sure ,Thanks for Showing the functionality of this radio !!!
I just bought my 718 in Dec. Thanks for the video as I'm still learning the radio. The Icom 718 is a great radio ! Thanks again for the video ,73 KN4ADM.
I run the 718 . I like it . It’s simple an easy to operate. 100 watts. The 7300 would be awesome to have but can’t see spending the money. My 718 is hooked to the mfj939i antenna turner. With 50’ of RG213 coax. Running to the Hustler 5btv antenna with 16 ground radials. My setup preforms very good. Portable rig is a Xiegu G90 hooked to the Wolf River coil mini mega1000 213” whip. It’s lite easy to carry in my backpack. Keep the videos coming 73’s KC3PMX in Pennsylvania
Got mine for $400! I absolutely love it. I have friends that get 7610's and go back to the "basic" 7300 or something in between a 718 and 7300 that has a bit more advanced features but not a nob for everything. My first contact on my ICOM 718 was on 20 meters with a speaker wire dipole on my second floor to Spain....lol so I don't you "need" a 7300 or better if you can handle basic DSP features....I saved for 3 years for an HF transceiver so this was a welcome rig!
Very good video. I have the IC 718, and not needing all those bells and whistles, which are not necessary using 100 Watts from So.Cal. to reach Chile, Australia and Japan, thus leaving me very happy!
Thanks for the review... I am a new ham and it made up my mind to buy it as my first TR. I was leaning towards some higher priced items, but decided better learn on a simpler model. Thanks again.... you rock!
TY sir ! I have recently passed my Technicians exam . and your videos have greatly assisted me . I also purchased this exact radio . 73 KE8KLZ Cleveland .
Excellent video, beautiful hi-def view of the radio. The only correction I'd mention is you said filters are to narrow your bandwidth on CW or SSB. Actually add on filters can narrow or expand the bandwidth.. on CW it almost always narrows it from the stock filter, but on SSB the stock filter may by 2.4khz and the add on filters can be 1.8, 2.3, 2.9, 3.3khz for instance, so many are wider than stock. 73 Ed
You are correct, thanks for the clarification. Filters can be used to narrow or expand the bandwidth. I think in my explanation I only said narrow as that's the way most people use them.
Yes, totally agree on usually narrower... I only see the wider on SSB locally in the Northeast for NVIS 300 - 400 mil contacts for nets and local ragchews with hams who are into audio, want the greatest fidelity so 3.3khz are common, but as you know this is the opposite from what we want for DXing, where we can get more punch out of the 2.3khz. I have a 2.9khz option in my FT-897D and I can use it for receive and/or transmit, so I can sound good (fuller) at the other end on NVIS contacts. I just bought a LNIB 718 on ebay as a backup radio, after all these years never had one, and that's how I found your video. Thanks for making it, it's one of the best videos on you tube for the features and info.
Ok so I managed to purchase one of these and have wanted to for a while. I bought a used one from a Ham up in Spokane and it looks new although it’s used and the price was right. So I go looking for a video on setup for this radio and I saw that you had posted this one. Thanks for sharing this video Michael I appreciate the simplicity in your explanations! I will now have to learn this radio but looking forward to it. 73 KI5DAY
Thanks for a really informative video on the 718. I have had mine for several years during the solar minimum which sort of killed the 10M i was enjoying working therefore my familiarity died off. Needed your helpful primer ty. 73's
Great video, thanks very much for the tutorial. I just picked up the 718 this week. Would you have a recommendation for a antenna tuner and battery? Thanks
I've had mine since 2010, and until the AH-4 atu went bad, I had a good, quick get on the band set. Now I use an MFJ-969. I also use the Heil ICM microphone with the universal base. I have really enjoyed this basic radio, and wouldn't hesitate to buy another one. The only drawback is the lack of FM for 29mhz, but it's not a deal breaker.
Hi! I have a 718 as my first HF radio. Love it! I'm still trying to figure out all of the functions. Some are not very clear in the manual and that's why I'm writing you. I currently have a technician's license and working on my General. I wanted to program my available frequencies to scan between P1 & P2. According to the band plan, I can only work on 10m (28.300 to 28.500). How do I program my radion to scan only 28.300 to 28.500? Thank you for your time, Brian (KE8OVP)
This is a very informative video for HF beginners like myself. Do you have any experience with the IC-735, or know of any videos with similar info for that tranceiver? I haven't found any on RUclips, and your video was easier tho follow than plowing through the manual ( which I must do, but have been putting off...)
I have this radio for about 1 year and I figured out a strange problem. Screen backlight is dimming while transmitting like power supply is not enough after a couple of minutes but its certainly not. First 3-4 minutes there is no such an issue but if you wait 2 minutes with the full backlight it starts dimming. And to be sure I turn off the backlight, wait 5 minutes without switching off the radio and turn the back light on again. Its working normal for 2 mins and lights are fading when ssb peaking again. The problem is not occurring if I set the backlight to MID level. Have you ever come across with such a strange issue ? Best 73's
Well I would apriciated if you place your camera much closer to the radio buttons control. That we can see much precisly ...I am n e w buyer with this radio and I want to use him longer then my previous Kenwood TS 930 SAT both burned very fast ( second one lasted 3 months)
Great video. I am kinda between going with a Icom IC-718 or a ICOM 7300. It's not such a money decision, its more of do I want simplicity or all the high-tech bells and whistles. Any opinions ?
Good question. I think it's hard to compare the 718 and 7300 as they are of two different generations. There are a lot of features on the IC-7300 that would be either considered top of the line or unavailable when the IC-718 was introduced. But with that said the IC-718 is very simple to operate. I can sit a ham down in front of it who has never operated HF before and get them on the air in five minutes or less. Plus I know they won't get lost in menus or settings and totally screw the whole thing up. Transmit audio is superb, receive is sensitive, and it will run full duty cycle all day long. What the IC-7300 brings is a sophistication in filtering and digital signal processing, plus full support of digital modes with its built in sound card/interface. I had to add a Signalink to the IC-718 which is a $100 expense for digital. The IC-718's DSP is on the AF stage, so it can get weary to listen to for long stretches, nor does the IC-718 have 6 meter support. TLDR: If you want a simple, bullet proof rig, go with the IC-718. If you want the sophistication of a modern SDR based transceiver, then the IC-7300 is for you.
Is there a book you can recommend that will explain in detail the functionality of each button on the receiver? I’m a newbie but always willing to put in the hours if necessary
I picked up one of these at a Hamfest recently and really like it. I noticed you have your mic gain set to 70. This seems to be a good setting for me with no compression. With compression, I need to set it to 25 or so. Does this sound right to you? I see no way to adjust compression.
Since I no longer have my IC-718, I'm going from memory. The mic settings are dependent on your vocal quality and you should use the ALC meter to set the gain appropriately. (For voice, you will want the ALC to be about half scale when transmitting. Over that threshold and you start to overmodulate). With that said, I usually had my gain set to about 30 with the compression turned on.
Great video as always... Very informative. I'm a new HAM as of last November and believe it or not, I still have not aquired my first 'rig'. The IC-718 is a top contender though, thus my great interest in your video. Im also considering the 817 ND. Which would you recommend as a 'first'. '73' VA6XMB
If you're considering doing any digital work, I'd give a strong look at the IC-7200 as it has a USB port for connecting to a PC - that is what I purchased as my first HF rig. This rig is feature packed - check it out! If you're not really interested in doing any digital work, I'd give a strong look at the Yaesu FT-450D. You can always add a SignalLink later. 73'
For a first rig, I'd recommend something that is easy to use and offers 100 watt transmit power. The Yaesu FT-817 is a great rig, but QRP can be quite challenging especially as the solar cycle reaches its minimum. If you want to do QRP, you can always turn your transmit power down. The best choice for you depends on what you are interested in and your budget. If it is backpack or portable operation, look at the FT-891. If you want something that will sit in the shack, then the IC-718, FT-450, or Kenwood TS-480. The IC-7200, IC-7300, FT-1200 are all a step up on the budget level, but have built in digital features so you don't need an interface like the Signalink. I hope this helps.
Your advice on 100 watts makes sense. Nobody I have talked to has mentioned the IC-7100. Is there a problem with this radio? Although I don’t own a radio yet (soon, very soon) they seem to be about the same price as the FT 857D, and from reading the specs, I’ve always been a fan on the IC electronic architecture.
The Icom IC-7100 kind of flies under the radar. I think because it's designed as a multi-band, multi-mode rig and it's primary users are mobile operators. But if you like the user interface, there's no reason why you can't use it in the shack.
I notice you have a signalink with your 718. I have been using my 7300 for FT8. I'm not having any luck setting up the 718 with WSJT-x. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks KW4LV
No. It's more like a short wave unit. Long waves are located well below the AM broadcast band (.540-1.790 MHz). This unit transmits from 1.8 MHz to 29.600 MHz.
This rig design is over 22 years old, so it is missing some of the refinement of the more modern transceivers, like IF level noise reduction and filtering. But otherwise it still is a rock solid rig, albeit a simple one. Really, the only thing Icom has in their product line that is the next step is the IC-7300 (their IC-7100 was recently discontinued).
No. HF operation is much more frequency agile than what you find on VHF/UHF. There are some activities on set frequencies that you can program into the radio's memory channels; but for the most part using the radio involves selecting the band and the tuning the dial.
Michael, I just started using my IC-718 and it’s awesome. My question is, although I have an MFJ manual tuner hooked up to it, it seems as though when I select am to tune, I reduce power when I key up I hear a tone and it sounds like it is manually tuning itself. It seems like I’m not really having to make adjustments on the MFJ manual tuner as if the radio tunes itself which ever band I’m on. My antenna is a simple slight inverted V, G5RV JR 21 feet up. I have an MFJ 1:1 balun connected to the ladder line. Everything is grounded and I have gotten a 5x7 to Japan on 100 watts! Does this tune itself when I hear the tone or am I losing it?
After some Jethro Clampett style deciphirin’, I seem to find out that my IC-718 actually has the built in auto-tune feature which seems to work quite well surprisingly. I am running a G5RV Junior still for an antenna currently setting at 21 feet; but soon to be 28 feet up. Running 100 watts with an MFJ 1:1 Balun at bottom of ladder line. Also the mast and HF equipment is well grounded. I have talked as far away as Australia from Oklahoma and many other European countries. I have also talked across many Canadian areas, a couple places in South America and Mexico along with many of these United States. Crazy thing I expected a lot less but got more. What a hobby, and your videos are always helpful.
Buen día,quería preguntar quiero conectar un sintonizador icom atrás 130 al radio icom ic 718 pero me falta saber como van ubicados en orden de izquierda a derecha los cabless GND - DC 13 V - START - KEY que orden tendrían en el conector del radio icom IC 718,muchas gracias.
i have a ic718 as well and enjoy it only problem is it was modified to operate on all bands which makes me nervous as my grandson being 3 yrs old always trys to play with the microphone button.
The IC-718 doesn't have a built in tuner, but it can interface with an auto-tuner. There is a connection in the back of the radio for the tuner. If an auto-tuner is connected to the rig, pressing the tuner button will drop the radio to 10 watts and transmit a carrier so the tuner can do its thing.
hello sir, I have a hf ic 718 radio but it has a problem with the receiver, transmits it ok but the receive can't hear, please explain sir thank you, from indonesia
Hi sir..i'm from the philippines. I just want to know if icom 718 is capable for duplex transmission? If yes, can you teach me how to program my icom718? Sample freq. Tx 12.234.00/Rx16.123. Hoping for your response. Thank you!
Noel - yes, I've operated with split frequency mode before with my IC-718. Setting it up would best be accomplished by looking at the manual - I only ever used mine this way twice so unfortunately I can't give you any hints on how to quickly set it up. You'll figure it out I'm sure. All the best from Pittsburgh USA!
Hi Michael, I have had my heart set on a IC-7300 but really wondering if this IC-718 wouldn’t be a better choice coupled with a software program and maybe a good SDR receiver like SDR Play RSP Duo running SDRuno. I understand you can get some sort of antenna switch from MFJ that will switch your receive and transmit on one antenna automatically. The model escapes me. Thoughts? I’m new and would like some guidance before I buy my first HF radio.
I think transmit on the IC-718 is just as good as the 7300. The final stage is capable of 180 watts‚ so it is running pretty conservative at 100 watts full keydown. Receive is a different story as the radio has 20 year old technology. I think mating the IC-718 with an SDR Play is a great idea for extending the life of the radio. But you won't save money. By the time you put all the bits and pieces together an IC-718 with SDR Play‚ switch‚ and digital interface like the Signalink would cost the same or more as the IC-7300. Plus you have the challenge (frustration) of making all those pieces work. If you are buying new‚ I'd go the IC-7300 route. If you already owned an IC-718 or could get one used at a great price- then the other option would start to make sense.
KB9VBR Antennas I watched a video with this setup from TechMinds in the UK and he uses Omni Rig to link the Radio and SDRuno together. It looked like it was free to use.
I just ordered one of these. I'm not interested at this point in using it as an operator, but as a listener. Is this good for receiving long distance AM stations? Is it a good shortwave receiver as well?
The IC-718 does an excellent job as a general coverage short wave receiver. Its AM reception is quite good and from time to time I've used mine as a shortwave receiver. The internals are quite similar to Icom's R-75 shortwave receiver, which has been discontinued. So if you are looking for a receiver of the same quality as the R-75, the IC-718 would be a viable option.
That's a great question. I've had some experience with the FT-450, although I've never owned one. It has some nice features such as the built in tuner and the DSP is a lot better than the IC-718. Downside is that the Yaesu has most of the functions buried in menus, so it takes more button pushing to activate a feature. The Icom has a much simpler control structure. What I like about the IC-718 is that you can sit down in front of it and start operating with a minimum of instruction. I've taken it to Field Day and had no problems teaching a new person how to use it. The built in tuner on the FT-450 is nice, but it only tunes to 3:1 or less, so it isn't going to be too useful if you are using a random wire or non-resonant antenna. I'd still look for an external tuner for that. When I bought my Icom, the FT-450 wasn't available, but if I was going to do it over again, I would take a very long, hard look at the Yaesu and may lean that direction.
Hello. I bought a new iCOM ic-78 and I mounted an inverted V antenna with a 6mm wire, 10m from each side of the dipole, and when I start transmitting, the fan starts to turn on start of transmission. I don't know if it's normal or not !!! Thank you for your information which will be very useful for the security of the posts. Suddenly, the problem is the fan which activates as soon as I press the microphone. Good year. 73/51 QRO
If the fan kicks in, that means the final transistors are getting hot. Normally this will happen with long transmissions or high duty cycle modes like FT8. If it happens right away, I'd check the SWR of your antenna to make sure it is 1.5:1 or less on the bands you are using it for.
Recently I" ve got one of this radios...althow I have manuel and watched few videos I found out that this radio is far too complicated to work with....I worked with FR 7 FT 101 E FT 200 FT 901 DM FT 2000 TS 50 Trio TS 510 520 530 830 930 IC 735 747 761 and finally IC 718 and fo not understand any thing I do prefer CW operating cuz of the Shack location....but I couldnt find any CW demonstration
Any 13.8 volt power supply capable of at least 20amp output will work well for this rig. I'm using a 25 amp Astron switching power supply: amzn.to/2ICDrMG, but MFJ and others make good, affordable, units that will work well.
I am a beginner in the HAM world operating from the UK. I am looking to buy an IC-718 to build my first base station - do I need an AMU or does the transceiver carry out this function itself? If I do need one could anyone point me in the right direction? I am looking to keep the price low as I am just a beginner getting into the hobby. Cheers - M7DCI
The IC-718 does not have a built in tuner or antenna matching unit. A full range tuner is a great investment as it will have more capability than what could ever by built into a transceiver. My favorite manual tuner is the MFJ 949E and LDG makes excellent automatic tuners. If you are on a budget‚ I'd shop a hamfest for a used manual tuner‚ they can be had quite inexpensively and there is really not much that can go wrong on one.
I''m looking to possibly buy this rig as my first radio my only question is this. is it a all mode rig such as 2 meter and 70 cm i don't want to buy separate radios if not what do you recommend as a first timer thanks and 73s.
I had a 718 when I lived on my Sailboat in CA. I was a new General Class and wound up talking all around the world on that little rig. Now years later and living in West Texas I am just now setting up a shack with an IC-7300, but while buying this radio I couldn't help but walk over and listen to the 718 they had on display. Memories rushed back. You will all enjoy that radio.
I had the Icom seven 706 and I loved that radio. I shelved it because the tuning knob was getting hard to turn.
No 50MHZ but still a good 160-10 transceiver on the cheap.
@@ericdreizen1463 Also has no FM and is no longer that cheap.
Fe2hehjerjt😮😢😢🎉🎉😂❤
Feggydghuyreejm
I bought a used icom-718 , a few months ago and love it ,And this radio is fun to operate because it really isn't hard to learn , it is a solid radio for sure ,Thanks for Showing the functionality of this radio !!!
Excellent video ,this sets the standard for other videos like this. Thank you Michael
Thanks so much for this video, just purchased a IC 718 coming in about a week or so. You made this very easy to understand.
I love my 718. Great video.
discontinued, I just purchased a used one and will fall back on this video. Thaanks
They are making the 718 again with 5 selectable filters $859
Your message reaches to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Thank you sir.
Ive considered adding an ic-718 to my shack. My first HF rig is an FT-991, but the 718 seems like a great rig, especially for the cost.
Just what I've been looking for as a new ham looking to get on HF.
I just bought my 718 in Dec. Thanks for the video as I'm still learning the radio. The Icom 718 is a great radio ! Thanks again for the video ,73 KN4ADM.
Great video. I have been looking for my first HF radio and this was a big help!!
Great demo showing the versatility and simplicity of this rig. I bought one last year and love it! 73 W2TMS
pls can you tell me, the front panel have light?. thanks.
Always love watching your videos. You make it so easy for this old man to understand....Ke8kky.
I run the 718 . I like it . It’s simple an easy to operate. 100 watts. The 7300 would be awesome to have but can’t see spending the money. My 718 is hooked to the mfj939i antenna turner. With 50’ of RG213 coax. Running to the Hustler 5btv antenna with 16 ground radials. My setup preforms very good.
Portable rig is a Xiegu G90 hooked to the Wolf River coil mini mega1000 213” whip.
It’s lite easy to carry in my backpack.
Keep the videos coming
73’s KC3PMX in Pennsylvania
I like the 718 I like the 7300 to but wait until that touch screen starts acting up sometimes basic radio is better
love this guy a real pro,i see these 718's under priced all the time on the used market.great rig for the price
Got mine for $400! I absolutely love it. I have friends that get 7610's and go back to the "basic" 7300 or something in between a 718 and 7300 that has a bit more advanced features but not a nob for everything. My first contact on my ICOM 718 was on 20 meters with a speaker wire dipole on my second floor to Spain....lol so I don't you "need" a 7300 or better if you can handle basic DSP features....I saved for 3 years for an HF transceiver so this was a welcome rig!
Thanks for the video! I just ordered the Icom 718 as my first base model HF transceiver. Looking forward to getting it up and running. 73, KC3MND
My Icom 718 arrives tomorrow. Enjoy all your videos.
Very good video. I have the IC 718, and not needing all those bells and whistles, which are not necessary using 100 Watts from So.Cal. to reach Chile, Australia and Japan, thus leaving me very happy!
Thanks for the review... I am a new ham and it made up my mind to buy it as my first TR. I was leaning towards some higher priced items, but decided better learn on a simpler model. Thanks again.... you rock!
The IC-718 is an excellent first rig. It's what I bought many years ago starting out and served me well for a very long time.
TY sir ! I have recently passed my Technicians exam . and your videos have greatly assisted me . I also purchased this exact radio . 73 KE8KLZ Cleveland .
Congratulation on passing the Tech! You'll certainly enjoy the IC-718, it's a nice rig.
I am a novice and i thoroughly enjoyed your video...
My father is going to "loan" me his 718 as an incentive to upgrade to general, Can't wait.
It's a great first rig‚ you'll do well with it.
I just got one of these from a local HAM. I am looking forward to getting an antenna VERY soon for her.
Great, concise and easy to understand video, thank you sir...!
Excellent video, beautiful hi-def view of the radio. The only correction I'd mention is you said filters are to narrow your bandwidth on CW or SSB. Actually add on filters can narrow or expand the bandwidth.. on CW it almost always narrows it from the stock filter, but on SSB the stock filter may by 2.4khz and the add on filters can be 1.8, 2.3, 2.9, 3.3khz for instance, so many are wider than stock.
73
Ed
You are correct, thanks for the clarification. Filters can be used to narrow or expand the bandwidth. I think in my explanation I only said narrow as that's the way most people use them.
Yes, totally agree on usually narrower... I only see the wider on SSB locally in the Northeast for NVIS 300 - 400 mil contacts for nets and local ragchews with hams who are into audio, want the greatest fidelity so 3.3khz are common, but as you know this is the opposite from what we want for DXing, where we can get more punch out of the 2.3khz.
I have a 2.9khz option in my FT-897D and I can use it for receive and/or transmit, so I can sound good (fuller) at the other end on NVIS contacts.
I just bought a LNIB 718 on ebay as a backup radio, after all these years never had one, and that's how I found your video. Thanks for making it, it's one of the best videos on you tube for the features and info.
Ok so I managed to purchase one of these and have wanted to for a while. I bought a used one from a Ham up in Spokane and it looks new although it’s used and the price was right. So I go looking for a video on setup for this radio and I saw that you had posted this one. Thanks for sharing this video Michael I appreciate the simplicity in your explanations! I will now have to learn this radio but looking forward to it. 73 KI5DAY
It's a good little rig, my IC-718 served me well for over 15 years.
Great video! Trying to set up FT8... Love to see a video on that!
Excellent Explaination of I-Com-718 HF Transciever ❤
de VU3WDJ
Lucky from Bangalore India
I liked it alot. I am a shortwave listener.
Thanks for a really informative video on the 718. I have had mine for several years during the solar minimum which sort of killed the 10M i was enjoying working therefore my familiarity died off. Needed your helpful primer ty. 73's
Great video, thanks very much for the tutorial.
I just picked up the 718 this week. Would you have a recommendation for a antenna tuner and battery?
Thanks
I've had mine since 2010, and until the AH-4 atu went bad, I had a good, quick get on the band set. Now I use an MFJ-969. I also use the Heil ICM microphone with the universal base.
I have really enjoyed this basic radio, and wouldn't hesitate to buy another one. The only drawback is the lack of FM for 29mhz, but it's not a deal breaker.
Nicely done.. just subscribed Just what I needed looking forward to more. Thanks hard to believe a few people gave you thumb down...
Hi! I have a 718 as my first HF radio. Love it! I'm still trying to figure out all of the functions. Some are not very clear in the manual and that's why I'm writing you. I currently have a technician's license and working on my General. I wanted to program my available frequencies to scan between P1 & P2. According to the band plan, I can only work on 10m (28.300 to 28.500). How do I program my radion to scan only 28.300 to 28.500?
Thank you for your time,
Brian (KE8OVP)
Well done Michael!
I would like to watch you set up a channel on the 718. Thank you.
tell us more about your head set with boom mike
Nice video - keep'em coming! 73'
This exact model is in the current HRO catalog! December of 2021.
Isn't it amazing, I bought that rig in 2001. The IC-718 has certainly stood the test of time as a reliable basic HF transceiver.
Thank you. I was given a 718 by my Elmer.
It's a great starter radio. You'll do well with it.
Great video. Thank you
Thanx KD9HAQ , 73
I am in the market for a used but in very good condition must be fully functional radio
This is a very informative video for HF beginners like myself. Do you have any experience with the IC-735, or know of any videos with similar info for that tranceiver? I haven't found any on RUclips, and your video was easier tho follow than plowing through the manual ( which I must do, but have been putting off...)
I have this radio for about 1 year and I figured out a strange problem. Screen backlight is dimming while transmitting like power supply is not enough after a couple of minutes but its certainly not. First 3-4 minutes there is no such an issue but if you wait 2 minutes with the full backlight it starts dimming. And to be sure I turn off the backlight, wait 5 minutes without switching off the radio and turn the back light on again. Its working normal for 2 mins and lights are fading when ssb peaking again. The problem is not occurring if I set the backlight to MID level. Have you ever come across with such a strange issue ? Best 73's
Please do a video on how to call or receive calls with that equipment... Thanks
Well I would apriciated if you place your camera much closer to the radio buttons control. That we can see much precisly ...I am n e w buyer with this radio and I want to use him longer then my previous Kenwood TS 930 SAT both burned very fast ( second one lasted 3 months)
Great lesson.😊👍
73s from CO7XY/PZ I HAVE IC-78 BUT THIS VIDEO HELP ME LOT
Excelente gracias
Great video. I am kinda between going with a Icom IC-718 or a ICOM 7300. It's not such a money decision, its more of do I want simplicity or all the high-tech bells and whistles. Any opinions ?
Good question. I think it's hard to compare the 718 and 7300 as they are of two different generations. There are a lot of features on the IC-7300 that would be either considered top of the line or unavailable when the IC-718 was introduced. But with that said the IC-718 is very simple to operate. I can sit a ham down in front of it who has never operated HF before and get them on the air in five minutes or less. Plus I know they won't get lost in menus or settings and totally screw the whole thing up. Transmit audio is superb, receive is sensitive, and it will run full duty cycle all day long. What the IC-7300 brings is a sophistication in filtering and digital signal processing, plus full support of digital modes with its built in sound card/interface. I had to add a Signalink to the IC-718 which is a $100 expense for digital. The IC-718's DSP is on the AF stage, so it can get weary to listen to for long stretches, nor does the IC-718 have 6 meter support.
TLDR: If you want a simple, bullet proof rig, go with the IC-718. If you want the sophistication of a modern SDR based transceiver, then the IC-7300 is for you.
Is there a book you can recommend that will explain in detail the functionality of each button on the receiver? I’m a newbie but always willing to put in the hours if necessary
I downloaded the manual as a PDF and printed it out
Placed each page in a clear cover from Walmart then into a 3 ring binder. Makes it easy to study
I picked up one of these at a Hamfest recently and really like it. I noticed you have your mic gain set to 70. This seems to be a good setting for me with no compression. With compression, I need to set it to 25 or so. Does this sound right to you? I see no way to adjust compression.
Since I no longer have my IC-718, I'm going from memory. The mic settings are dependent on your vocal quality and you should use the ALC meter to set the gain appropriately. (For voice, you will want the ALC to be about half scale when transmitting. Over that threshold and you start to overmodulate). With that said, I usually had my gain set to about 30 with the compression turned on.
Hi i have same hf radio, how can you set the TX and RX frequency on the ic-718
great video sir 73
Helpful, thank you
great !!
Great video as always... Very informative. I'm a new HAM as of last November and believe it or not, I still have not aquired my first 'rig'. The IC-718 is a top contender though, thus my great interest in your video. Im also considering the 817 ND. Which would you recommend as a 'first'.
'73' VA6XMB
If you're considering doing any digital work, I'd give a strong look at the IC-7200 as it has a USB port for connecting to a PC - that is what I purchased as my first HF rig. This rig is feature packed - check it out!
If you're not really interested in doing any digital work, I'd give a strong look at the Yaesu FT-450D. You can always add a SignalLink later.
73'
For a first rig, I'd recommend something that is easy to use and offers 100 watt transmit power. The Yaesu FT-817 is a great rig, but QRP can be quite challenging especially as the solar cycle reaches its minimum. If you want to do QRP, you can always turn your transmit power down.
The best choice for you depends on what you are interested in and your budget. If it is backpack or portable operation, look at the FT-891. If you want something that will sit in the shack, then the IC-718, FT-450, or Kenwood TS-480. The IC-7200, IC-7300, FT-1200 are all a step up on the budget level, but have built in digital features so you don't need an interface like the Signalink.
I hope this helps.
Your advice on 100 watts makes sense. Nobody I have talked to has mentioned the IC-7100. Is there a problem with this radio? Although I don’t own a radio yet (soon, very soon) they seem to be about the same price as the FT 857D, and from reading the specs, I’ve always been a fan on the IC electronic architecture.
The Icom IC-7100 kind of flies under the radar. I think because it's designed as a multi-band, multi-mode rig and it's primary users are mobile operators. But if you like the user interface, there's no reason why you can't use it in the shack.
I was change value on mode adjustment... Can you help me back to default.
Well done video.
Thank you!
73's
I notice you have a signalink with your 718. I have been using my 7300 for FT8. I'm not having any luck setting up the 718 with WSJT-x. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks KW4LV
Hello. Am a technician. Pls I want to know, during programing of icom 718, is it only RX frequency they program or with TX frequency
Great video, is this radio considered a Long Wave unit?
No. It's more like a short wave unit. Long waves are located well below the AM broadcast band (.540-1.790 MHz). This unit transmits from 1.8 MHz to 29.600 MHz.
do you have any videos on the 718 scan function? Thanks
How do you adjust Power Out for tuning?
I like the Icom - 718 but it seems long in the tooth. What in the Icom line is a more improved and modern version of this rig?
This rig design is over 22 years old, so it is missing some of the refinement of the more modern transceivers, like IF level noise reduction and filtering. But otherwise it still is a rock solid rig, albeit a simple one. Really, the only thing Icom has in their product line that is the next step is the IC-7300 (their IC-7100 was recently discontinued).
Will this radio require programming or software before using. Great video, Thank You
No. HF operation is much more frequency agile than what you find on VHF/UHF. There are some activities on set frequencies that you can program into the radio's memory channels; but for the most part using the radio involves selecting the band and the tuning the dial.
Michael, I just started using my IC-718 and it’s awesome. My question is, although I have an MFJ manual tuner hooked up to it, it seems as though when I select am to tune, I reduce power when I key up I hear a tone and it sounds like it is manually tuning itself. It seems like I’m not really having to make adjustments on the MFJ manual tuner as if the radio tunes itself which ever band I’m on. My antenna is a simple slight inverted V, G5RV JR 21 feet up. I have an MFJ 1:1 balun connected to the ladder line. Everything is grounded and I have gotten a 5x7 to Japan on 100 watts! Does this tune itself when I hear the tone or am I losing it?
After some Jethro Clampett style deciphirin’, I seem to find out that my IC-718 actually has the built in auto-tune feature which seems to work quite well surprisingly. I am running a G5RV Junior still for an antenna currently setting at 21 feet; but soon to be 28 feet up. Running 100 watts with an MFJ 1:1 Balun at bottom of ladder line. Also the mast and HF equipment is well grounded. I have talked as far away as Australia from Oklahoma and many other European countries. I have also talked across many Canadian areas, a couple places in South America and Mexico along with many of these United States. Crazy thing I expected a lot less but got more. What a hobby, and your videos are always helpful.
Buen día,quería preguntar quiero conectar un sintonizador icom atrás 130 al radio icom ic 718 pero me falta saber como van ubicados en orden de izquierda a derecha los cabless GND - DC 13 V - START - KEY que orden tendrían en el conector del radio icom IC 718,muchas gracias.
I have a ICOM 718 all mode L would like to hook up a MFJ CW Keyer/Reader mfj-464 can it be done.
reply to my email at kd9clw03@gmail.com thank you
Very very good!!!! 73,s👍
i have a ic718 as well and enjoy it only problem is it was modified to operate on all bands which makes me nervous as my grandson being 3 yrs old always trys to play with the microphone button.
I had similar concerns when my kids were that age. I kept the microphone disconnected when the radio was not in use.
Great video. What is the "Tuner" button for on the radio?
The IC-718 doesn't have a built in tuner, but it can interface with an auto-tuner. There is a connection in the back of the radio for the tuner. If an auto-tuner is connected to the rig, pressing the tuner button will drop the radio to 10 watts and transmit a carrier so the tuner can do its thing.
hello sir, I have a hf ic 718 radio but it has a problem with the receiver, transmits it ok but the receive can't hear, please explain sir thank you, from indonesia
Where does the P1 on your 718 screen come from?
pls the front panel have light?, where is the button to make light on?
Hi sir..i'm from the philippines. I just want to know if icom 718 is capable for duplex transmission? If yes, can you teach me how to program my icom718? Sample freq. Tx 12.234.00/Rx16.123. Hoping for your response. Thank you!
Noel - yes, I've operated with split frequency mode before with my IC-718. Setting it up would best be accomplished by looking at the manual - I only ever used mine this way twice so unfortunately I can't give you any hints on how to quickly set it up. You'll figure it out I'm sure. All the best from Pittsburgh USA!
What is the normal Receive-Only coverage of HF transceivers like ic-718? 500Khz -30 Mhz, 2-30 Mhz,180m-10m, Or only
the amateur bands????
The IC-718 has general coverage receive, so it is 500 kHz to 30 mHz.
@@KB9VBRAntennas Thanks for the timely reply.😇
Great vid 73s KF5AXY
good job KF5AXY
Hello KV9VBR can you tell me where can i buy a display for Icon IC-78 ? 73s from Suriname PZ
Hi Michael,
I have had my heart set on a IC-7300 but really wondering if this IC-718 wouldn’t be a better choice coupled with a software program and maybe a good SDR receiver like SDR Play RSP Duo running SDRuno. I understand you can get some sort of antenna switch from MFJ that will switch your receive and transmit on one antenna automatically. The model escapes me.
Thoughts? I’m new and would like some guidance before I buy my first HF radio.
I think transmit on the IC-718 is just as good as the 7300. The final stage is capable of 180 watts‚ so it is running pretty conservative at 100 watts full keydown. Receive is a different story as the radio has 20 year old technology. I think mating the IC-718 with an SDR Play is a great idea for extending the life of the radio. But you won't save money. By the time you put all the bits and pieces together an IC-718 with SDR Play‚ switch‚ and digital interface like the Signalink would cost the same or more as the IC-7300. Plus you have the challenge (frustration) of making all those pieces work. If you are buying new‚ I'd go the IC-7300 route. If you already owned an IC-718 or could get one used at a great price- then the other option would start to make sense.
KB9VBR Antennas I watched a video with this setup from TechMinds in the UK and he uses Omni Rig to link the Radio and SDRuno together. It looked like it was free to use.
I just ordered one of these. I'm not interested at this point in using it as an operator, but as a listener. Is this good for receiving long distance AM stations? Is it a good shortwave receiver as well?
The IC-718 does an excellent job as a general coverage short wave receiver. Its AM reception is quite good and from time to time I've used mine as a shortwave receiver. The internals are quite similar to Icom's R-75 shortwave receiver, which has been discontinued. So if you are looking for a receiver of the same quality as the R-75, the IC-718 would be a viable option.
@@KB9VBRAntennas thank you
Sir,Not transfite 8.244.6 please help me for unlock frequency ...pls
How much
How to go on cw using st key
Hi do you prefer IC-718 or FT-450 D as a first HF ..? please advise TNX.
That's a great question. I've had some experience with the FT-450, although I've never owned one. It has some nice features such as the built in tuner and the DSP is a lot better than the IC-718. Downside is that the Yaesu has most of the functions buried in menus, so it takes more button pushing to activate a feature. The Icom has a much simpler control structure. What I like about the IC-718 is that you can sit down in front of it and start operating with a minimum of instruction. I've taken it to Field Day and had no problems teaching a new person how to use it.
The built in tuner on the FT-450 is nice, but it only tunes to 3:1 or less, so it isn't going to be too useful if you are using a random wire or non-resonant antenna. I'd still look for an external tuner for that. When I bought my Icom, the FT-450 wasn't available, but if I was going to do it over again, I would take a very long, hard look at the Yaesu and may lean that direction.
Hello. I bought a new iCOM ic-78 and I mounted an inverted V antenna with a 6mm wire, 10m from each side of the dipole, and when I start transmitting, the fan starts to turn on start of transmission. I don't know if it's normal or not !!! Thank you for your information which will be very useful for the security of the posts. Suddenly, the problem is the fan which activates as soon as I press the microphone. Good year.
73/51 QRO
If the fan kicks in, that means the final transistors are getting hot. Normally this will happen with long transmissions or high duty cycle modes like FT8. If it happens right away, I'd check the SWR of your antenna to make sure it is 1.5:1 or less on the bands you are using it for.
Recently I" ve got one of this radios...althow I have manuel and watched few videos I found out that this radio is far too complicated to work with....I worked with FR 7 FT 101 E FT 200 FT 901 DM FT 2000 TS 50 Trio TS 510 520 530 830 930 IC 735 747 761 and finally IC 718 and fo not understand any thing
I do prefer CW operating cuz of the Shack location....but I couldnt find any CW demonstration
What is a good power supply for this rig?
Any 13.8 volt power supply capable of at least 20amp output will work well for this rig. I'm using a 25 amp Astron switching power supply: amzn.to/2ICDrMG, but MFJ and others make good, affordable, units that will work well.
Mag kno Yung wats
good job 73s Kf5AXY
My 718 no matter I move the tuning knob the displayed goes lower??
Interesting. I guess without observing the radio and the actions, I wouldn't be able give you an answer to what's happening.
KB9VBR Antennas Ok,has me confused?
Why no FM ????
I am a beginner in the HAM world operating from the UK. I am looking to buy an IC-718 to build my first base station - do I need an AMU or does the transceiver carry out this function itself? If I do need one could anyone point me in the right direction? I am looking to keep the price low as I am just a beginner getting into the hobby. Cheers - M7DCI
The IC-718 does not have a built in tuner or antenna matching unit. A full range tuner is a great investment as it will have more capability than what could ever by built into a transceiver. My favorite manual tuner is the MFJ 949E and LDG makes excellent automatic tuners. If you are on a budget‚ I'd shop a hamfest for a used manual tuner‚ they can be had quite inexpensively and there is really not much that can go wrong on one.
KB9VBR Antennas Thank you for all the info and for the great video, 73s and hope to catch you further down the log!
I''m looking to possibly buy this rig as my first radio my only question is this. is it a all mode rig such as 2 meter and 70 cm i don't want to buy separate radios if not what do you recommend as a first timer thanks and 73s.
No, it's HF only
Good day, kindly provide guide to modify ham radio general purpose radio, thanks
Re: Good day, kindly provide guide to modify ham radio to general purpose radio, thanks.
Anong wats Nayan