|
HF/50
MHz ALL MODE TRANSCEIVER
ICOM IC-756PRO
It
began with developing the ultimate in IF-DSP
HF transceivers with DSP are being introduced one after the other. Icom
has taken the lead over other transceivers by not just using existing
DSP, but in an effort to create the pinnacle in this technology, has developed
an all new, original DSP unit.
Equipping
the 32-bit Floating Point DSP __ first in amateur equipment
The 32-bit Floating Point DSP __ this DSP provides a much wider
and precise processing ability than 16-bit Fixed Point DSP, did with previous
DSP transceivers. And also, the built-in 24-bit AD/DA converter helps
to realize ultra wide dynamic range operation. The result is, this unique
Icom technology has made it possible to realize unparalleled performance,
deservedly fitting of the name 'PRO'.
Taking
the potential of the transceiver to heights unimaginable, until now.
The combination of the 32-bit Floating Point DSP and 24-bit AD/DA converter
is loaded with superior digital functions never before available with
previous DSP units. With the DSP controlled AGC loop management, it is
now possible to achieve pure digital functions. The digital IF filter,
digital twin PBT and manual notch, the elimination of radio interference,
unrivaled transmission and reception S/N, ultra-low distortion transmission
and reception tone quality etc., is delivered. The search by Icom for
the ultimate HF transceiver, resulted in the 32-bit Floating Point DSP
and 24-bit AD/DA converter, and brought to life in the IC-756PRO. The
most striking impression of the ability of this technology is without
a doubt, the performance of the digital IF filter.
32-bit
floating point DSP
To dramatically increase the ability of all digital functions in this
all mode transceiver, the latest technology has been used and a newly
designed DSP has been created. The IC-756PRO, has employed an originally
designed 32-bit floating point DSP unit. Along with this, sees the adoption
of the 24-bit AD/DA converter making a formidable team with ample capacity.
Especially with the receive signal input, the AD/DA converter provides
ultra wide dynamic range, 144 dB*, of signal management. Clear signals without any
distortion are realized even in any signal conditions, such as very weak
or extremely strong signals from nearby stations. The DSP has extremely
high performance processing ability, which dramatically improves signal
resolution, as well as both transmission and reception S/N ratio, and
allows more high performance features and properties.
*theoretical value at digital operation stage.
AGC loop management
The digital IF filter,
manual notch filter etc. are adopted in the AGC loop, and controlled by
the 32-bit floating point DSP. This system removes blocking by extremely
strong adjacent signals in out of filter passbands. Therefore, you will
never have to suffer blocking of the AGC again. The result is that even
very weak signals can be extracted from the noise level in between crowded
strong signals clearly! In addition, the AGC time constant, (three presettable
slow, medium and fast) are flexibly adjustable for each operating mode
to suit operating band conditions, operating style, etc.
picture(Example
for setting time constant for the SSB, 2.5.)
RF speech compressor
The IC-756PRO has
truly drawn the line between previous models and their standard equipped
compressors. The 32-bit capacity provided from the DSP, allows the speech
compressor to compress the transmitter IF signal, therefore, average talk
power is increased. This function of course is effective for long distance
communication, or when propagation conditions are poor. The IC-756PRO
keeps the level of distortion to it's lowest extremity at maximum compression.
In turn this ensures that your fellow ham enthusiasts are presented with
quality readability. In addition, the transmit bandwidth is selectable,
regardless of the speech compressor activity, from 2.2, 2.4 and 2.8 kHz
to suit operating band conditions, etc.
|
|
Twin peak audio filter
A twin peak audio filter has been built in. 2 specified audio frequencies
only are passed through the filter in the DSP for accurately receiving
an RTTY signal, for a profound decoding rate. You will see a dramatic
improvement in the quality of S/N, as well as removing interfering CW
signals, etc.
Microphone equalizer
In the high/low sound
ranges, there are 11 different levels respectively, which can set frequency
properties. Totalling 121 varieties, equalized audio can be set with the
built in microphone audio equalizer. Suitable transmit audio can be easily
and freely set using the equalizer according to operating style, and your
personal preference.
Manual notch capability
The 32-bit floating
point DSP has also allowed the inclusion of possible manual notch operation,
as well as equipping current auto notch function. The manual notch filter
achieves more than 70 dB of attenuation level, and with it's sharp cutting
characteristics, the manual notch function can accordingly be adjusted
to beat unwanted signals, while protecting the desired signal__very
weak signals buried in extremely strong beat signals, can be received.
Of course with the auto notch function, the notch frequency is automatically
adjusted to follow interfering beat signals__reducing interference
from sweeping beat signals, etc.
DPSN
A digital PSN (Phase Shift Network) is employed at the modulator using
an original 90 phase shifter architecture. The result is consistently
reproducible, clear and high quality transmit audio for all voice operations.
In addition, the DPSN also allows SSB operation with superior carrier
suppression and unwanted sideband rejection ratio.
RTTY demodulator
The first in the world, the Baudot RTTY demodulator
and decoder, boasting a superb decoding rate capability, is built-in.
Of course, the received alphanumeric details of RTTY signal are indicated
on the LCD display__you don't need external units for RTTY
receiving any more! The built-in tuning indicator, located at the top
of the LCD, can visually recognize the tuning condition, and in combination
with the 1/4 speed dialling function, allows quick and simple zero-in,
even if you are new at or interested in RTTY receiving.
picture(Example
for receiving an RTTY signal)
Digital
noise reduction
The newly designed
DSP digitally separates desired signal components from noise components. Outstanding signal
to noise ratio is achieved, providing clean, clear audio in SSB, easy-to-copy
RTTY and crisp, clear SSTV reception. In addition, the digital noise reduction
has continuously adjustable noise suppression capabilities__
complicated, high level of algorithms are instantaneously managed by the
32-bit floating-point DSP.
CW wave form
With the CW wave form being created in the DSP__it now has
been made possible to materialize CW transmissions with desired leading
and trailing edge characteristics. The characteristics are selectable
from 4 available steps to suit your operating style. 2, 4, 6 and 8 msec.
characteristics are available
Advanced
Features and Basics... the Mark of a World Leader
5-inch
TFT color LCD
The
first in an HF transceiver! The IC-756PRO is Icom's prized product, and
has adopted a 5-inch TFT color LCD that offers a concentrated indication
of various information recognizable at a glance. 4 colors and 7 types
of fonts can be selected at your personal preference. Separated into an
upper and lower screen, the TFT color LCD will be sure to offer that all
important quick operation.
Spectrum scope
A real time spectrum scope
is ideal for monitoring conditions around the displayed frequency (including
relative signal strengths). With the main frequency displayed at the center,
the sweep frequency range (span) is selectable from four individual levels;
12.5 kHz, 25 kHz, 50 kHz, and 100 kHz for convenient observation at
a glance. Furthermore, IC-756PRO's spectrum scope sports full dot LCD
features, including a peak hold function that can set 2 contrasting colors
if preferred__ Making distinction between bands easy, and especially
for detecting on air stations, has an unsurpassed capability.
picture(Spectrum
scope screen (peak-hold function ON))
Performing foundations
The IC-756PRO covers a wide frequency range, 30 kHz to 60 MHz (except
some frequency bands), with superior performance. A wide dynamic range
of 105 dB* and a high intercept point of +23 dB*! Of course, Icom's original DDS (Direct Digital Synthesizer)
is adopted, and it provides a superior C/N ratio.
*Not guaranteed; Rx: 14.1 MHz, interfering freq.: F1=14.2
MHz, F2=14.3 MHz; IF passband width=500 Hz
High frequency stability
A high stability crystal unit, CR-338, is used for the PLL reference oscillator,
allowing 0.5 ppm (-10C to 50C) of extremely high stable operation.
Digital voice memories
Weather you're
contesting or on a DX'-pedition, the digital voice memories are a built-in
feature you'll really appreciate. A total of 8 memories, 4 each for transmit
and receive, with 15 sec. of storage space per location, use the recorder
for calling CQ, reporting call sign, or any other continuously repeated
audio. Of course record and playback audio quality is remarkably high.
picture(Example
for transmitting condition of recorded contents (T1).)
Highly stable transmitter
The IC-756PRO has a newly adopted high rating power transistor (2SC5125
2) in the PA circuit, and with the realization of superior IMD characteristics,
this all mode transceiver easily ensures an output of 100 W. The SSB modulator
has also been able to adopt the PSN modulator in the 32-bit DSP. This
creates a 10 dB improvement in the S/N ratio compared to previous models.
Advanced design considerations along with an aluminum, diecast frame,
and large cooling fan, help to stabilize the PA circuit providing this
100%, full duty cycle operation.
Digital Twin PBT
Proving hard to beat, the IC-756PRO's digital twin PBT shows extraordinary
sharpness of cutting in on interfering signals. The twin PBT narrows the
IF passband in one stage, and efficiently eliminates any interfering signals
limiting delay in operation. The new digital twin PBT function is especially
useful during crowded band conditions such as pileups, contests, etc.
Of course, the twin PBT conditions, such as tuned value (50 Hz step),
direction, and passband width, are indicated on the LCD for easy recognition.
This digital twin PBT will prove to be one of those most vital functions
when hunting for DX stations.
High performance memory keyer
CW operators working long hours will appreciate the
4 channel memory keyer. The entire memory channel contents may be viewed
on the display__no need to memorize the contents yourself.
A maximum of 55 characters may be recorded. A serial contest number auto
counter is built in, viewable on the TFT.
picture(Example
for editing a memory channel 2 (M2).)
Analog and digital meters
In addition to the built-in,
large analog S/RF meter, the IC-756PRO employs a digital S/RF meter. Output
power, ALC level, speech compression level and VSWR ratio are simultaneously
indicated while transmitting, and peak hold function is available while
signal strength level is indicated during receive.
picture(Digital
meter screen)
Set mode condition list
All set mode items are classified into 4 groups and a maximum of 9 items
can be easily called up onto the display. Settings are simple and straight
forward.
picture(Level
setting screen)
Complete CW features
CW enthusiasts won't be disappointed. All of the following capabilities
are included in the IC-756PRO;
- Continuously
adjustable CW pitch control, from 300 to 900 Hz
- Multi-functional
electronic keyer includes continuously adjustable keying speed and dot/dash
ratio, from 7 to 56 wpm and from 2:8:1 to 4:5:1, respectively.
- Double
key jacks__one each for front and rear panels
- Full break-in
(QSK) respondence
Superior
receive IMD
A 4-element system is employed for receiver mixer circuits, providing
superior inband receive IMD, especially from near-by interfering signals,
and a well-designed triple-conversion system to help minimize image and
spurious responses for better signal fidelity, is also standard.
Dual
watch
This function allows you to receive 2 signals on the same band simultaneously.
You can conveniently monitor a DX station while operating on another frequency.
To appreciate and fully enjoy HF, the IC-756PRO now makes DXing and hunting
for those rare stations possible, as well as making your transceiver respondent
to high degree contesting.
Memory
pad
The memory pad function stores up to 5 operating frequencies and modes
for easy write and recall. These memory pads are separate from the included
memory channels, and are convenient especially when finding a DX station
in a pile-up, or when a station is busy for a long time and you want to
temporarily search for other stations__ Use memory pads instead
of your hastily scribbled notes
Other
outstanding features
- Triple
band stacking register
- Quick
split function with split lock capability
- Built-in
antenna tuner covers HF through 50 MHz of amateur bands
- AH-4 control
circuits
- Dial lock
- Band edge
beep (OFF also selectable)
- Independent
RIT and .TX control for each main and sub bands
- Dual antenna
system
- VOX
- 2 levels
pre-amplifier and 3 levels attenuator
- Auto TS
function
- CI-V interface
capability with the optional CT-17
- Noise
blanker
- Programmed,
Memory, Select memory and .F scans
- 101 memory
channels (incl. 2 scan edges) with 10-character memory note
- Optional
voice synthesizer announces operating frequency, mode, as well as receiving
signal strength
- 50 frequency
tone encoder built-in, and more...
|