Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the bestkong USB Programming Cable (Model OPC-478), designed to facilitate communication between your computer and compatible Icom two-way radios for programming purposes. This cable allows you to upload and download radio configurations, frequencies, and other settings using appropriate programming software.
An image showing the USB programming cable. One end features a standard USB-A connector for connecting to a computer, and the other end has a 3.5mm audio plug for connecting to compatible Icom radios.
Setup
1. System Requirements
- A computer with an available USB port.
- Compatible Icom radio (refer to the "Compatible Radios" section).
- Radio programming software (not included with this cable). Examples include Icom's CS series software or third-party software like CHIRP.
2. Driver Installation
The cable typically uses a CH343 or similar USB-to-serial chip.
- Connect the USB-A end of the programming cable to an available USB port on your computer.
- For most modern operating systems (e.g., Windows 10/11, macOS, Linux), drivers may install automatically.
- If automatic installation does not occur, locate the included USB driver CD. Insert the CD into your computer's optical drive and follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers.
- If your computer lacks an optical drive, you may need to download the appropriate drivers from the chip manufacturer's website (e.g., WCH for CH34x series) or the cable vendor's support page.
- Verify driver installation: Open your computer's Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (macOS) and check for a newly installed COM port or USB-Serial Controller. Note the assigned COM port number, as this will be needed for the programming software.
3. Software Installation
This cable does not include the radio programming software (CPS). You must obtain the correct programming software for your specific Icom radio model.
- Download the appropriate software from the official Icom website or a reputable third-party source like CHIRP.
- Install the software according to its specific instructions.
Operating Instructions
1. Connecting the Cable to the Radio
- Ensure your radio is powered off.
- Connect the 3.5mm audio plug end of the programming cable to the designated programming port on your Icom radio. This port is often labeled "SP" or "DATA" or is the external speaker/microphone jack.
- Connect the USB-A end of the cable to your computer's USB port (if not already connected during driver installation).
- Power on your Icom radio.
2. Using the Programming Software
- Launch the radio programming software (e.g., Icom CS-series, CHIRP).
- In the software's settings or preferences, select the correct COM port that was assigned to the USB programming cable during driver installation.
- Follow the software's instructions to read data from your radio, modify settings, and write the updated configuration back to the radio.
Note: Specific programming procedures vary significantly between radio models and software versions. Refer to your radio's user manual and the programming software's documentation for detailed instructions.
Maintenance
- Keep the cable clean and free from dust and moisture.
- Avoid bending or kinking the cable sharply, as this can damage internal wires.
- Store the cable in a cool, dry place when not in use.
- Do not expose the cable to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods.
Troubleshooting
Problem: Cable not recognized by computer.
- Solution: Ensure drivers are correctly installed. Check Device Manager for "USB-Serial Controller" or a new COM port. Try a different USB port on your computer.
- Solution: If using Windows 7 or older, manual driver installation from the CD or manufacturer's website is often required.
Problem: Programming software cannot communicate with the radio.
- Solution: Verify the correct COM port is selected in the programming software.
- Solution: Ensure the radio is powered on and the cable is securely connected to both the radio and the computer.
- Solution: Confirm you are using the correct programming software for your specific radio model.
- Solution: Check the radio's settings; some radios require a specific mode for programming.
Problem: "Radio did not answer" error.
- Solution: This often indicates a driver issue, incorrect COM port selection, or incompatible programming software. Re-verify driver installation and COM port. Ensure the radio is in programming mode if required.
Specifications
- Model: OPC-478
- Connector Type (Computer): USB-A
- Connector Type (Radio): 3.5 mm Audio Plug
- Cable Length: Approximately 36 inches (0.91 meters)
- Included Components: USB cable, USB driver CD (Note: CPS program software is not included)
- Compatible Radios:
- IC-F3, IC-F4, IC-F11, IC-F14, IC-F21, IC-F24, IC-F26, IC-F33, IC-F34, IC-F41, IC-F43
- IC-F3001, IC-F4001, IC-F3101, IC-F4101, IC-F3002, IC-F4002, IC-F3102, IC-F4102, IC-F3003, IC-F4003, IC-F3103, IC-F4103
- IC-F3013, IC-F4013, IC-F3023, IC-F4023, IC-F3022, IC-F4022, IC-F3122, IC-F4122, IC-F3161, IC-F4161, IC-F3011, IC-F4011, IC-F3021, IC-F4021
- IC-F7000, ID-880H, IC-Q7A
- IC-207H, IC-208H, IC-2100H, IC-2200H, IC-2720H, IC-2725E, IC-2800H, IC-2820H, IC-V8000, IC-V80, IC-V80E, IC-V82, IC-U82, IC-V8, IC-V8000, IC-V85, IC-U85
- IC-T70A, IC-T70E, IC-80AD, IC-E80D, IC-91A, IC-91AD, IC-E90, IC-E92D, IC-92AD
- IC-R5, IC-R6, IC-RX7, IC-R10, IC-GM1600, IC-M23, IC-M24, IC-M34, IC-M35, IC-M72
- IC-T7H, IC-T2H, IC-T81A, IC-T81E, IC-W32A, IC-T90A, IC-T90E, IC-A14, IC-A14S
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the product packaging or contact the vendor directly.
For technical support regarding the programming cable, please contact bestkong customer service. For support related to your Icom radio or its programming software, please consult Icom's official documentation or support channels.
