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In an exciting announcement that has ham radio enthusiasts buzzing, Kenwood has unveiled their latest mobile amateur radio transceiver, a model that promises to redefine mobile communication for operators worldwide. This new transceiver, which is currently under development, will be the first of its kind to support both APRS® (Automatic Packet Reporting System) and D-STAR® digital voice and data protocols, bringing together the best of both worlds in a single, powerful device.

A Legacy of Innovation Continues

Kenwood has long been a trusted name in the amateur radio community, known for producing reliable and feature-rich equipment. The TM-D710G, a staple in mobile transceivers, has set a high standard with its robust APRS® functionality. With this new model, Kenwood aims to build on that legacy by integrating the advanced capabilities of D-STAR®, a protocol that has garnered widespread acclaim for its ability to facilitate digital voice and data communication.

A Dual-Purpose Transceiver

The integration of both APRS® and D-STAR® into one mobile transceiver is a significant development, catering to the diverse needs of modern ham radio operators. APRS® has long been favored for its ability to track positions, exchange messages, and provide real-time tactical communication. This has made it an invaluable tool for emergency communication, event coordination, and even casual operation.

On the other hand, D-STAR® brings the advantages of digital communication, offering crystal-clear voice transmission, efficient data exchange, and the ability to connect with global networks of repeaters and reflectors. By combining these two systems, Kenwood is providing operators with a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of communication scenarios, whether on the road, in an emergency, or simply connecting with fellow hams across the globe.

Building on Success

Kenwood’s decision to incorporate D-STAR® into their new mobile transceiver is a natural progression following the success of the TH-D75 handheld transceiver, which was released earlier this year. The TH-D75 has been praised for its user-friendly interface and reliable D-STAR® functionality, setting the stage for this next innovation.

Looking Ahead

While Kenwood has yet to release the full specifications or a launch date for this new mobile transceiver, the amateur radio community is already eagerly anticipating its arrival. With the promise of a device that supports both APRS® and D-STAR®, Kenwood is poised to set a new standard in mobile amateur radio communication.

Stay tuned for more updates as Kenwood continues to develop and refine this exciting new product. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or just getting started in the world of ham radio, this new transceiver promises to be an essential addition to your mobile setup.

YAESU has announced their forthcoming release, the “FTX-1F,” an all-mode field transceiver designed to meet the demands of modern ham operators. The 24th and 25th of August will mark the first time the FTX-1F is shown at HAM FAIR in Tokyo, Japan, with full details expected to be unveiled later.

The FTX-1F is a tunable multi-band transceiver covering HF/50MHz/144MHz/430MHz, ideal for a variety of amateur radio purposes. Its key selling point is its mobility: the radio includes a powerful 5670mAh lithium-ion battery that provides up to 9 hours of stand-alone operation on HF bands in SSB mode and up to 8-10 hours on V/UHF bands when running FM. For those needing more power, the FTX-1F can deliver up to 10W when connected to an external DC power supply.

With advanced SDR technology, the FTX-1F provides high-performance communications in SSB, CW, and various modes, along with the enjoyment of AM/FM broadcast stations and the addition of C4FM digital capability. The 4.3-inch high-resolution full-color touch screen panel (480×272 pixels) features a live real-time spectrum display and waterfall, allowing for both general visual observation of band status and detailed resolution of up to 46 elements under sweep spectrum view.

The FTX-1F also operates on dual bands, thanks to two independent receiver circuits, making it possible to operate concurrently on two bands, for example, SSB on HF and digital C4FM on V/UHF, offering maximum flexibility.

With its two speakers, the FTX-1F provides high-powered audio output and includes options for automatic antenna tuning and a cooling fan, enhancing performance during demanding modes like FT8.

Enter the YAESU FTX-1F, a full-fledged IF Transceiver slated to arrive in early 2025, which is expected to be an essential tool for any ham who desires both portability and power without compromise, combining cutting-edge technology.

This ham would be amiss to say he isn’t just the slightest bit interested in this piece of hardware. As of the writing of this post, the price has yet to be announced with just a few online retailers taking reservations for the radio.