KV5R: Icom IC-706MkIIG Mods and Tips
the old (to get the ratio) then divide the error by that. Using this technique, I was able to win the
2004 ARRL FMT award certificate by getting within 0.04 Hz!
5. You can determine the frequency error of other people’s radios. Have them set to some exact
reading and transmit a carrier for 10 seconds or so. Switch your mode to CW and alternate
between CW and CW-R, while adjusting your VFO to equalize the tones (set tuning step TS to 1 Hz
resolution). Compare your readout with theirs. The differential will be their radio’s display error,
plus or minus your own error, which is, hopefully, within 1 Hz, referenced to WWV. I have
observed that a high percentage of Hams are running an error of 40-60 Hz... This may be
"acceptable" on older, pre-PLL radios, but modern radios with PLL and a Master Oscillator can be
calibrated much closer. Also, I have also observed that new, factory-fresh radios are typically off
up to 50 Hz. This may not sound like much, but remember if you’re off 50 Hz on 40 meters, you’ll
be off a whopping 1 kHz on 2 meters and 3 kHz on 440! --not acceptable. Since you have the
time, you can do much better than the factory.
Locating the Giblets
The best thing about the 706 is being able to put the control head where you want and need it. This is
not only handy in mobile installations, but at home as well. In my case, it’s essential, as illness forces
me to stay in bed most of the time. The head’s by the bed and the shack’s in the back...
file:///C|/My%20Downloads/Icom/706.asp.htm (8 of 15)5/4/2009 11:29:12 PM
