When a new Ham radio transceiver is released, you can rest assured the folks at RT Systems won’t be far behind with software designed to make programming that specific rig a whole lot simpler. That has been the company’s focus for 23 years—relieving operators of some of the hassles of setting up their radios. Instead of pressing buttons and reading small LCD screens, you can simply scroll through checkboxes and enter information with your keyboard. The software is paired with a USB cable that eliminates com port setup.
RT Systems recently joined the parade of other manufacturers producing accessories for Icom’s IC-705 HF/50/144/430 MHz All Mode Portable Transceiver. Its WCS-705 Programming Software and RT-49 cable make it easy to manage memory channel information, D-STAR settings, and more. Features include:
- Spreadsheet layout with many point-and-click options
- “Read” the current configuration from the radio for editing or start from scratch in a new file
- Copy and paste of memory channel information between files
- Column editing for changing several channels with minimal typing
- Easy interface to ARRL Travel Plus, RFFinder-Worldwide Repeater Directory, Radio Reference, or Repeater Book to get repeater information (separate purchase of subscription may be required)
- Ability to copy and paste spreadsheet or website data
- Settings for radio menu items
- Software works with Windows 7, Windows 8 and 8.1 (full versions), and Windows 10 for 32 and 64 bit platforms
What do Hams think of RT Systems Software and Cables?
Five Stars: “I found this version very easy to use. The fact that it works with RFFinder was a big plus, I was able to load all the local repeaters in a matter of about five minutes. Very cool! It’s just typical for RT Systems. Great job guys!”
Five Stars: “I almost always purchase RT Systems software with new radios. It makes programming so much easier.”
Find RT Systems software and cables for many Alinco, Icom, Kenwood, and Yaesu handheld, mobile, and base station transceivers at DXEngineering.com. Cables are also sold separately.
