IC-R1500 / IC-PCR1500

The receiver is marketed in distinct versions. With the code IC-R1500 includes the equipment-box, power supply, removable antenna, connection cables, software, finally a remote front panel (see asterisk in the upper image) for the control as an alternative to the PC. With the initials IC-PCR1500 there are the same components with the exception of the front panel, the only combination is with a computer. The buyer can choose according to usage preferences, the electrical characteristics remain the same.

The IC-R2500 / IC-PCR2500 models are also available with equal performance but double listening possibility, please consult the dedicated page for details.

The ICR 1500 / ICPCR 1500 has a wide tuning range that from only 10 KHz extends beyond 3 GHz. The control software offers three types of interfaces to choose from. In addition there is a multi-channel monitor function that allows you to observe together the activity of 25 channels tuned in sequence by the program and updated accordingly on the video. Thanks to the software, the receiver can perform a spectrum analysis showing the representation on the screen. It is possible to use this capacity both in the traditional way, setting a wide range from 25 KHz up to 5 MHz continuously scanned, or retracing the conditions in the 3~ 100 minutes spent so as to observe the changes in emissions over time. With active spectrum analysis, audio is not present if you are operating in CW / SSB or the scan interval is greater than 500 KHz. The integrated recording function allows to obtain a file in WAV format of the audio directly via the USB connection. Recording can be stopped / resumed in relation to the presence of a signal compressing hours of listening only to periods of real usefulness.

Other features: selection of the bandwidth of the IF filter, IF-shift in CW / SSB to move the bandpass with respect to the tuned frequency, noise-blank, VSC to unlock the scan in the presence of an unmodulated carrier, automatic frequency control (AFC) in FM mode, RF attenuator, selectable AGC time constant, squelch, DTMF / CTCSS / DTCS. Multiple search options: between band limits, within memories, on a priority channel, according to the mode, with auto-memory write. Ample memory since an unlimited number of files can be managed within the PC. The self-writing function is present, which keeps track of the active frequencies during a scan. High scanning speed of 60 channels per second.

IC-R1500 / IC-PCR1500 performance and practical notes :

The IC R1500 / IC PCR1500 is basically a scanner with extended coverage. The availability of a front panel separate from the receiver box undoubtedly facilitates installation on vehicles or where space and wiring management poses difficulties. This front panel, for the IC-R1500 only, allows access to the receiver with a limited number of well balanced controls to offer an intuitive use of the main functions.

Both versions, with or without panel, are widely known not so much for the performance in terms of sensitivity and selectivity - modest if also adequate to the typical listening conditions on VHF/UHF frequencies - but for the possibilities of coordination offered by an apparatus developed entirely to have its maximum performance in combination with a PC. The creation of a receiving station accessible via Internet is one of the modes of use that can be achieved. The high scanning speed, the search options, the ability to directly interface the discriminator to operate in packet or digital modes, makes this model very interesting by expanding the use potential typical of the most traditional scanners. The weak point is identifiable in the reduced frequency coverage for the CW / SSB modes which prevents not only the possible listening of amateur radio operators on 2.3 GHz, but also eliminates the possibility of adopting special techniques to analyze / recognize certain emissions even if they employ other modulations gender. The optional UT-106 unit adds DSP processing for digital noise reduction (DNR) and auto-notch functions. Its usefulness is mainly aimed at those who monitor HF bands, due to the modest dynamic-range and selectivity the receiver is non-competitive on these frequencies however.