New price-performance standard for transceivers

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Oct 13, 2000

Four models make up an exciting new family of handheld radio transceivers from Icom UK; the IC-F3GS and IC-F3GT for VHF and two for UHF, the IC-F4GS and the IC-F4GT

Icom UK is pleased to announce its next generation of handheld radio transceivers aimed squarely at the commercial market.

Designed to inherit the mantle of the very successful IC-F3/S series, the GT and GS series are packed with all the latest features and functionality, setting new standards for performance and price! Four transceivers make up this exciting new family of products.

To meet the differing needs of a wide range of users these break down into the IC-F3GS and IC-F3GT for VHF and two for UHF, the IC-F4GS and the IC-F4GT.

Simplicity is the key behind the design of these transceivers.

A minimum of switches and buttons coupled with a clear LCD display ensures quick intuitive operation.

Versatility is the watchword behind the GT models.

These radios offer a 10-character keypad, plus compatibility with a wide range of industry standard (and not so standard) signalling and data formats.

These radios will integrate with existing PMR systems or form the basis of a large radio network.

The first thing you notice about the new radios is that they appear much smaller than their predecessors.

The slim-line, curved casing has been ergonomically designed so that it fits comfortably in the hand.

The Icom hallmarks of durability and quality have not been sacrificed for style as the new series meets tough US Military standards, MIL-810C, D and E for shock and vibration.

These factors combine to provide high reliability, even in the toughest environments.

In addition, all models have a large clear 7 character alphanumeric automatic backlit LCD that enable users to see the radio's operating conditions.

Up to eight keys can be assigned special functions, providing customised operation to suit individual needs.

In particular, the red button above the PTT switch can be used for important functions such as emergency calls (making it ideal for the emergency services, Shopwatch schemes etc).

An optional voice scrambler unit is also available to allow secure communications.

The radios are capable of delivering up to 5 watts of RF power.

The new series now feature 40 memory channels.

Radio Cloning Software operates under Microsoft Windows.

The handheld range has been designed to support multiple signalling and flexible selective calling.

All models feature CTCSS and DTCS encode/decode.

5-tone encode as standard.

Optional circuits allow decode with Automatic Numbering Identification (ANI) functions.

The series features a standard Ni-Cd battery pack that will allow 8 hours + operation.

However for those who want a higher capacity battery a Ni-MH is available.

A powerful optional Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) battery will also be available soon (capable of providing up to three times the operation time of a traditional Ni-Cd pack.) A further option for users is a battery case that can be used with alkaline cells, providing convenience back-up and great reassurance in any emergency.

The series has many other features including normal and priority scans, auto LCD contrast, 2-step power saver, 5 Autodialing memories for DTMF, busy/repeater lockout functions, an optional microphone remote control and much, much more.

With all these features, you might expect a huge price tag.

Not so, the GT/GS series retains all of the features that made the IC-F3 series popular and yet retails at just ?249 ex.VAT (GS range) and ?295 ex.VAT (GT range).

Included with each radio is a charger, belt clip, comprehensive handbook and a rechargeable battery.

To give added confidence each model had a 2-year warranty.

A comprehensive list of accessories is also available.

Ian Lockyer, Marketing Executive, said: "This is an unbeatable range from Icom.

We are offering high performance, reliability, functionally and an exceptional price.

They are suitable for a wide range of commercial customers from established radio users, who want a hard-wearing, practical unit to those who have never used a radio before".