ICOM IC-R8600 Wideband Communications SDR Receiver
The IC-R8600 is a super wideband communication receiver that covers the radio spectrum from 10 kHz to 3 GHz. It also has the capability to decode selected digital communication signals including, D-STAR, NXDN, dPMR and P25. The IC-R8600 incorporates the latest software demodulation technology incorporated on Icom’s latest HF Amateur radios, providing superior performance and intuitive operation. With the optional remote control software for a Windows PC, received audio and spectrum scope data can be transferred through an IP network for monitoring from remote locations.
Features
- Ultra-wide frequency coverage with RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) function
- Fast moving, real-time spectrum scope and waterfall functions
- Decodes multiple digital protocols, including D-STAR, NXDNTM, dPMRTM and APCO P25
- Large 4.3 inch TFT color touch screen display
- Clear audio quality using FPGA/DSP base architecture with superheterodyne circuitry
- Optional RS-R8600 PC remote control software allows control of all receiver functions
- I/Q signal output for use with third-party SDR software and/or external decoding
- The SD card slot for received log, decode log and voice recording
- Optional SP-39AD external speaker with integrated power supply
10 kHz to 3 GHz Super Wideband Coverage
The IC-R8600 decodes various digital signals including P25 (Phase 1), NXDN, dPMR, D-STAR, Japanese DCR (Digital Convenience Radio) as well as receives conventional analogue signals such as USB, LSB, FSK, CW, AM, S-AM (Synchronous-AM), FM and WFM modes, covering 10 kHz to 3 GHz wideband in 1 Hz steps.
Absolute Value of RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator)
The IC-R8600 shows S-meter, dBμ, dBμ (emf) and dBm meter types in the RSSI. The dBμ, dBμ (emf) and dBm meter has a high ±3 dB accuracy (between 0.5–1100 MHz) that can be used for measuring signal strength level.
Less than ±6 dB between 1100–3000 MHz.
Software Demodulation in FPGA Processing
The IC-R8600 utilizes FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and DSP units for demodulation, decoding and most of signal processing. Direct HF signals and intermediate frequency signals, which are converted from VHF/UHF signals, are digitized in a 14-bit A/D converter and transferred to the FPGA and DSP for optimal processing. The high-rate 122.88 MHz sampling frequency used for the A/D converter results in superior aliasing and image reception reduction.
Superb Receiver Performance
The IC-R8600 has 11 discrete RF bandpass filters in the HF bands and 13 bandpass filters in the VHF/UHF bands. To prevent overflow, only the intended signal is passed, while any out of range strong interference signals are rejected. The IC-R8600 provides 30 dBm IP3 and 105 dB dynamic range at 14.1 MHz. IP3 performance is 10 dBm at 144 MHz and 0 dBm at 440 MHz.
Ample Memory Channels
The IC-R8600 has up to 2000 regular memory channels assignable to 100 groups. In addition to the regular memory channels, up to 100 scan skip channels and 50 pairs of program scan edges can be set. The auto memory write scan automatically stores busy frequencies in the auto memory write channels (up to 200 channels). These memory channels and various settings can be edited with the optional CS-R8600 programming software on a Windows® PC.
Variety of Scan Functions
A variety of scan functions effectively and thoroughly search for desired stations. The IC-R8600 scans up to 100 channels per second in the memory scan mode.
• Program scan/Fine program scan
• Δf scan/Δf fine scan
• Priority scan
• Memory scan
• Selected memory scan
• Selected mode memory scan
• Auto memory write scan
Real-time Spectrum Scope with Waterfall Function
The high-resolution real-time spectrum scope provides class-leading performance in resolution, maximum 30 frames per second fast sweep speed, ±2.5 MHz wide scope span (display range) and 110 dB of dynamic range (at ±2.5 kHz span). The waterfall screen allows you to find weak signals by showing the spectrum change over time. When tapping the spectrum scope or waterfall screen, the tapped area can be selected as the operating frequency. The peak search function finds several peak frequencies within the scope range, and helps you to select these. ( Approximate)
Quick, Smooth and Intuitive Operation
To efficiently acquire intended signals, the IC-R8600 user interface provides quick and accurate operation. The large 4.3-inch colour display, with touch screen function, is configured to collect operating information. By tapping indications and icons on the screen, the setting menu will