Radios in Action

In an era where digital communication happens at the speed of light, it’s easy to overlook the enduring charm and ingenuity of amateur radio. Yet, events like the Ham Radio fair in Friedrichshafen, Germany, remind us that radio isn’t just a relic—it’s a thriving, inventive community built on experimentation and exploration. One striking example is Icom’s IC-705 rig, showcased as part of a fully portable backpack system. Paired with a military-grade antenna, this setup recently achieved a contact over 22,000 kilometers away—proof that global connection doesn’t always require satellites or cell towers.This is more than hobbyist tinkering; it’s a celebration of hands-on innovation and global camaraderie. Ham radio empowers individuals to become engineers, operators, and explorers in one, all while embracing the core human desire to reach out across vast distances. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or simply curious, the stories emerging from Friedrichshafen serve as a reminder: some of the world’s most compelling tech journeys still begin with a soldering iron and a sense of wonder.

The 2024 Pacific Marine Expo served as a platform for exploring how advanced radio technologies are supporting specialized industries. Secure and far-reaching communication remains a critical need for the commercial fishing sector. Rick Waedekin, the President of Coast Marine Marketing and Icom's West Coast Sales Rep, spoke with Harold Whittlesy of Satellite Technical Services about the growing excitement around Icom’s IP radios. Whittlesy highlighted the technology’s value for commercial fishermen who require discreet, one-to-one or group communication without broadcasting openly. He described the radios as filling a major void in the market by delivering long-range, global connectivity at a low cost. The IP radios also give crews a flexible, modern alternative to traditional marine comms, enabling broader communication without compromising privacy. Whittlesy called it a game-changer for a sector that has long operated with limited tools.

Bouvet Island sits at the edge of the world. It is frozen, uninhabited, and almost impossible to access. Fewer people have set foot there than in space. That level of remoteness is exactly what makes it so valuable to amateur radio operators. The island ranks tenth on ClubLog’s list of Most Wanted DXCC entities, making it a highly coveted contact in amateur radio.. A team of 24 operators is preparing a bold, carefully planned mission to return Bouvet Island to the airwaves. The 3Y0K DXpedition, powered by Icom and backed by years of preparation, will push the limits of logistics, endurance, and technical expertise in one of the harshest operating environments on Earth.What does it take to pull off a successful radio expedition in such extreme isolation, where weather, equipment, and timing leave no room for error?What does it take to pull off a successful radio expedition in such extreme isolation, where weather, equipment, and timing leave no room for error?Part 1 of this special coverage from Radios in Action by Icom, recorded at Hamvention 2025 in Xenia, Ohio, features operators Adrian Ciuperca, KO8SCA, Co-leader of the 3Y0K DXpedition, and Bob Ronk, W9AP, Expeditioner with the 3Y0K team. Host Ray Novak, N9JA, Senior Sales Manager at Icom, explores how they plan to reach Bouvet by icebreaker and helicopter, establish dual operating camps, and stay on the air using a full suite of Icom radios. The discussion offers a rare look into the planning, risk, and passion behind one of the largest DXpeditions ever attempted.Key Highlights:Advanced Logistics for Extreme Conditions: The team will endure freezing temperatures, 75-mph winds, and limited sunlight during a multi-week stay on the island.Icom Radios Across All Modes: Operations will run across satellite, marine, and HF bands using sixteen Icom radios, including the IC-7610, IC-7300, and SAT100.Global Coordination and Safety Focus: The 24-person team is supported by satellite links and a superstation team led by Krassy, K1LZ, ensuring technical precision and safe execution.Adrian Ciuperca, KO8SCA, is an accomplished DXer and contester with over three decades of experience in amateur radio and a professional background in IT consulting. He has participated in major contests from top-tier superstations like K1LZ and K1TTT and competed in WRTC 2018. Adrian has operated from rare and remote locations across the globe, combining his passion for CW, SSB, and digital modes with extensive DXpedition experience and active involvement in multiple radio clubs.Bob Ronk, W9AP, is an experienced Amateur Extra–class operator active in high-profile DXpeditions and convention leadership within the ham radio community. He plays a key role in the upcoming Bouvet Island 3YØK expedition and serves as Convention Chair and Prize Committee member for W9DXCC. Bob regularly collaborates with major operators and suppliers, including DX Engineering, contributing to both the planning and promotion of international amateur radio efforts.Part 1 of this special coverage from Radios in Action by Icom, recorded at Hamvention 2025 in Xenia, Ohio, features operators Adrian Ciuperca, KO8SCA, Co-leader of the 3Y0K DXpedition, and Bob Ronk, W9AP, Expeditioner with the 3Y0K team. Host Ray Novak, N9JA, Senior Sales Manager at Icom, explores how they plan to reach Bouvet by icebreaker and helicopter, establish dual operating camps, and stay on the air using a full suite of Icom radios. The discussion offers a rare look into the planning, risk, and passion behind one of the largest DXpeditions ever attempted.Key Highlights:Advanced Logistics for Extreme Conditions: The team will endure freezing temperatures, 75-mph winds, and limited sunlight during a multi-week stay on the island.Icom Radios Across All Modes: Operations will run across satellite, marine, and HF bands using sixteen Icom radios, including the IC-7610, IC-7300, and SAT100.Global Coordination and Safety Focus: A 24-person team is supported by satellite links and a superstation team led by Krassy, K1LZ, ensuring technical precision and safe execution.Adrian Ciuperca, KO8SCA, is an accomplished DXer and contester with over three decades of experience in amateur radio and a professional background in IT consulting. He has participated in major contests from top-tier superstations like K1LZ and K1TTT and competed in WRTC 2018. Adrian has operated from rare and remote locations across the globe, combining his passion for CW, SSB, and digital modes with extensive DXpedition experience and active involvement in multiple radio clubs.Bob Ronk, W9AP, is an experienced Amateur Extra–class operator active in high-profile DXpeditions and convention leadership within the ham radio community. He plays a key role in the upcoming Bouvet Island 3YØK expedition and serves as Convention Chair and Prize Committee member for W9DXCC. Bob regularly collaborates with major operators and suppliers, including DX Engineering, contributing to both the planning and promotion of international amateur radio efforts.

Bouvet Island sits at the edge of the world. It is frozen, uninhabited, and almost impossible to access. Fewer people have set foot there than in space. That level of remoteness is exactly what makes it so valuable to amateur radio operators. The island ranks tenth on ClubLog’s list of Most Wanted DXCC entities, making it a highly coveted contact in amateur radio.. A team of 24 operators is preparing a bold, carefully planned mission to return Bouvet Island to the airwaves. The 3Y0K DXpedition, powered by Icom and backed by years of preparation, will push the limits of logistics, endurance, and technical expertise in one of the harshest operating environments on Earth.What does it take to pull off a successful radio expedition in such extreme isolation, where weather, equipment, and timing leave no room for error?What does it take to pull off a successful radio expedition in such extreme isolation, where weather, equipment, and timing leave no room for error?Part 1 of this special coverage from Radios in Action by Icom, recorded at Hamvention 2025 in Xenia, Ohio, features operators Adrian Ciuperca, KO8SCA, Co-leader of the 3Y0K DXpedition, and Bob Ronk, W9AP, Expeditioner with the 3Y0K team. Host Ray Novak, N9JA, Senior Sales Manager at Icom, explores how they plan to reach Bouvet by icebreaker and helicopter, establish dual operating camps, and stay on the air using a full suite of Icom radios. The discussion offers a rare look into the planning, risk, and passion behind one of the largest DXpeditions ever attempted.Key Highlights:Advanced Logistics for Extreme Conditions: The team will endure freezing temperatures, 75-mph winds, and limited sunlight during a multi-week stay on the island.Icom Radios Across All Modes: Operations will run across satellite, marine, and HF bands using sixteen Icom radios, including the IC-7610, IC-7300, and SAT100.Global Coordination and Safety Focus: The 24-person team is supported by satellite links and a superstation team led by Krassy, K1LZ, ensuring technical precision and safe execution.Adrian Ciuperca, KO8SCA, is an accomplished DXer and contester with over three decades of experience in amateur radio and a professional background in IT consulting. He has participated in major contests from top-tier superstations like K1LZ and K1TTT and competed in WRTC 2018. Adrian has operated from rare and remote locations across the globe, combining his passion for CW, SSB, and digital modes with extensive DXpedition experience and active involvement in multiple radio clubs.Bob Ronk, W9AP, is an experienced Amateur Extra–class operator active in high-profile DXpeditions and convention leadership within the ham radio community. He plays a key role in the upcoming Bouvet Island 3YØK expedition and serves as Convention Chair and Prize Committee member for W9DXCC. Bob regularly collaborates with major operators and suppliers, including DX Engineering, contributing to both the planning and promotion of international amateur radio efforts.Part 1 of this special coverage from Radios in Action by Icom, recorded at Hamvention 2025 in Xenia, Ohio, features operators Adrian Ciuperca, KO8SCA, Co-leader of the 3Y0K DXpedition, and Bob Ronk, W9AP, Expeditioner with the 3Y0K team. Host Ray Novak, N9JA, Senior Sales Manager at Icom, explores how they plan to reach Bouvet by icebreaker and helicopter, establish dual operating camps, and stay on the air using a full suite of Icom radios. The discussion offers a rare look into the planning, risk, and passion behind one of the largest DXpeditions ever attempted.Key Highlights:Advanced Logistics for Extreme Conditions: The team will endure freezing temperatures, 75-mph winds, and limited sunlight during a multi-week stay on the island.Icom Radios Across All Modes: Operations will run across satellite, marine, and HF bands using sixteen Icom radios, including the IC-7610, IC-7300, and SAT100.Global Coordination and Safety Focus: A 24-person team is supported by satellite links and a superstation team led by Krassy, K1LZ, ensuring technical precision and safe execution.Adrian Ciuperca, KO8SCA, is an accomplished DXer and contester with over three decades of experience in amateur radio and a professional background in IT consulting. He has participated in major contests from top-tier superstations like K1LZ and K1TTT and competed in WRTC 2018. Adrian has operated from rare and remote locations across the globe, combining his passion for CW, SSB, and digital modes with extensive DXpedition experience and active involvement in multiple radio clubs.Bob Ronk, W9AP, is an experienced Amateur Extra–class operator active in high-profile DXpeditions and convention leadership within the ham radio community. He plays a key role in the upcoming Bouvet Island 3YØK expedition and serves as Convention Chair and Prize Committee member for W9DXCC. Bob regularly collaborates with major operators and suppliers, including DX Engineering, contributing to both the planning and promotion of international amateur radio efforts.

When cities plan parades for Super Bowl champions or ski resorts need to link radios across miles of mountain terrain, there’s no time for trial-and-error communications. That’s why Icom America brought real-world solutions to the forefront at the 2025 International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE), showcasing how their versatile technology helps organizations solve critical operational challenges—without blowing their budget or starting from scratch. With the radio communications market expanding rapidly, Icom’s emphasis on flexible migration paths over full system replacements offers a model that’s both financially and operationally smarter.So, how can agencies and enterprises upgrade their radio systems without pulling the plug on operations—or their budgets?That’s the question at the heart of this episode of Radios In Action, hosted by Icom Inside Sales Manager Tim Price. He’s joined by fellow Icom Sales Manager Jon Paul Beauchamp for a conversation that explores the real-world applications and advantages of Icom’s solutions, straight from the floor of IWCE.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why migration paths beat forklift upgrades for long-term efficiency and lower financial strainHow Icom radios helped power emergency communications during Philadelphia’s Super Bowl victory paradeReal-world examples of Icom’s technology blending digital, LAN, and LTE systems to create seamless communications—from ski resorts to city operationsJon Paul Beauchamp is a seasoned business development leader with over two decades of experience in the radio communications industry, specializing in land mobile, LTE, satellite, and WLAN systems. As Senior Manager at Icom America, he drives sales growth and brand visibility through strategic partnerships and market expansion, while also serving in leadership roles with the Enterprise Wireless Alliance, NXDN Forum, and Radio Club of America. His background spans operations management, public safety communications, and security consulting, making him a trusted expert in delivering scalable, real-world solutions for commercial and emergency communication needs.

As the International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE) 2025 came to a close, the Icom team reflected on another successful year of meaningful connections, shared expertise, and hands-on interaction with industry professionals.Chris Vargas, Inside Sales Representative at Icom, summed up the experience with one word: personal. After months of remote communication and countless email threads, IWCE offered the chance to meet face-to-face with dealers, partners, and industry peers.For Chris, the value wasn’t just in the deals—it was in the conversations. From shaking hands to sharing stories, the event brought a renewed sense of meaningful connection to the Icom community. It reminded everyone that behind every radio, every order, and every sale, there’s a real relationship.Icom America represents one of the few companies in the world that manufactures a complete line of Land Mobile, Marine, Amateur, Aviation, and Satellite radios. Since 1954, Icom has set the standard for quality and innovation, with a legacy of reliability that spans industries and continents. With ongoing advancements in digital technologies, Icom continues to lead the way toward the future of radio communications.As Icom continues to lead in the world of mission-critical communications, events like IWCE help reaffirm what matters most: trust, collaboration, and showing up in person.We're proud of another successful year—and already looking forward to the next one.

At the International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE) 2025—an event focused on mission-critical communications for industries like public safety and utilities—EPCOM and Icom stood out by demonstrating how trusted technology and long-term partnerships can deliver real impact.Representing EPCOM, Director of Customer Success Abril Rodriguez highlighted the company’s role as a long-time partner and recent U.S. distributor for Icom—one of the few global manufacturers offering a complete lineup of land mobile, marine, aviation, amateur, and satellite radios.With a strong focus on mission-critical industries, the companies showcased why radio communications remain essential—especially during emergencies, when reliability is key. Icom’s products stand out for their Japanese engineering, dependable performance, and strong warranty, making them a trusted choice for customers across sectors.A recent deployment of 500 Icom radios at immigration shelters in Las Vegas demonstrated how these solutions make a tangible difference in critical environments.Together, EPCOM and Icom are committed to delivering technology that works—when and where it’s needed most.

At this year’s International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE), Telex and Icom introduced an important step forward in critical communications: the integration of Telex dispatch consoles with Icom’s P25 mobile radios.This new compatibility allows dispatchers to access key radio functions—such as channel change, ANI (Automatic Number Identification), and emergency alert decoding—directly from the Telex console. The result is faster, more efficient communication for industries where every second counts.The announcement responds to growing demand from sectors like public safety, utilities, and transportation for communication tools that are not only powerful, but easy to use and adaptable to real-world challenges.While Telex and Icom have partnered in the past—previously integrating with Icom’s ITIS system—this latest advancement builds on that history with support for both ITIS and P25 technologies.As IWCE 2025 highlights the need for industry-specific solutions, this collaboration stands out as a practical example of innovation tailored to mission-critical environments.Telex and Icom are moving forward—together—toward a more connected future.

The landscape of critical communications is evolving, and IWCE 2025 is proving to be a turning point. This year’s event is marked by a clear focus on serving vertical markets—industries with distinct, mission-critical needs. From public safety to utilities, the demand is no longer just for cutting-edge technology, but for solutions tailored to real-world challenges. It’s a shift that underscores a growing realization: putting the customer first isn’t just good business—it’s essential. Companies that embrace this mindset are setting themselves apart, forging deeper connections and delivering greater value.For a closer look at how this philosophy is shaping the conversation at IWCE, Tim Price, Inside Sales Manager at Icom America, shares his Day 1 wrap-up and insights into what’s driving the momentum.

In the fast-evolving world of wireless communications, events like the International Wireless Communications Expo (IWCE) serve as a critical hub for innovation, collaboration, and industry advancement. Each year, professionals from public safety, utilities, transportation, and other mission-critical sectors gather to explore the latest in radio, broadband, and emerging technologies. IWCE 2025 in Las Vegas promises to be more than just a trade show—it’s a launchpad for the future of connectivity. With exhibitors showcasing groundbreaking solutions and thought leaders discussing the next frontier of communication, the event highlights how technology is shaping the way we work, respond, and stay connected. Companies like Icom are at the forefront, preparing to unveil new advancements that could redefine reliability and performance in wireless communications. Whether it’s improving emergency response networks or enhancing day-to-day operational efficiency, IWCE is where these conversations turn into reality. As attendees step onto the expo floor, they’ll find not just products, but a vision for the future—one that industry experts like John Pau from Icom are eager to share.

Dive into the heartwarming story of how the late Tim Price's passion for ham radio lives on through a generous donation of his equipment to the Case Amateur Radio Club. Discover how models like the ICOM 7300, celebrated for their unmatched DX capabilities, continue to connect enthusiasts across the globe, from local neighborhoods to Australia.More than just radios, ICOM fosters a deep sense of community and shared memories, from earning that coveted ICOM hat at Dayton to cherishing a first HF radio. Join us in honoring the legacy of silent keys, celebrating the stories behind the equipment, and connecting with the ever-growing ham radio community. Watch now and be part of this timeless tradition!

From getting his license at just 12 years old to leading expeditions and contest teams, this seasoned ham radio enthusiast shares his lifelong journey with ICOM. Discover why the IC-7300 and other iconic ICOM models have become trusted companions on his expeditions and contests, thanks to their unmatched reliability, sleek designs, and cutting-edge technology.Hear personal stories of early transceivers like the IC4E and 2GAT, which powered his graduate school days, and learn how ICOM continues to fuel his passion for CW and SSB contesting. Whether you're a budding radio enthusiast or a seasoned operator, this video is your gateway to the wonders of ICOM and the vibrant ham radio community. Tune in and join the adventure!

Ham radio isn’t just a hobby—it’s a passion that connects people across the globe, and ICOM has been at the heart of this connection for decades. In this video, hear from a lifelong ham radio enthusiast as he shares his 40+ years of adventures with ICOM radios, from his first contact at a university ham shack to leading expeditions in Guyana with cutting-edge ICOM gear.Learn how ICOM radios, like the powerful 7610 series, make communication seamless with advanced features like Waterfall and Spectrum displays. Whether you’re new to ham radio or a seasoned operator, discover why ICOM remains the trusted choice for enthusiasts worldwide. Ready to connect with the world? Watch now and start your journey!

What’s it really like to talk to astronauts in space? Discover how the Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARIS) program bridges the gap between Earth and the cosmos. This event, hosted by PAXI in collaboration with ARIS, brought young students face-to-face with astronauts via amateur radio.From learning about life aboard the ISS to understanding how radio waves travel through the ionosphere, this event was packed with inspiration, science, and a personal touch from the astronauts themselves. Want to know how space exploration connects us all? Watch now and see how the next generation is reaching for the stars!

Ever wondered what keeps racers safe and connected in one of the world’s toughest rally races? The Baja Rally depends on cutting-edge technology like the ICOM SAT 100 satellite radios. These advanced push-to-talk radios are the secret to seamless communication, real-time tracking, and emergency support across the rugged Baja Peninsula.Discover how this groundbreaking tech ensures racer safety, supports organizers in solving challenges on the fly, and makes this thrilling six-day event possible. Get an inside look at how ICOM is changing the game in rally racing—watch now and join the adventure!

As equestrian sports grow in popularity and scale, ensuring smooth and efficient event management is important. The U.S. Equestrian Federation oversees numerous events each year across various disciplines, reflecting the sport's widespread participation and economic significance. These events demand flawless coordination among staff, officials, volunteers, and participants, making communication a crucial factor in their success.But how do organizers ensure everyone stays connected, even at remote locations where cell service may be limited?This episode of Radios in Action explores the complexities of event communication in the equine industry. Host Jon Paul Beauchamp sits down with equine industry consultant Danielle Aamodt to discuss how effective radio communication systems are vital to the seamless execution of horse shows. The discussion covers the essential role of radio communication at equestrian events, touching on the setup logistics, the need for multiple channels, and adapting communication strategies for different event sizes.Key Points from the Episode:Importance of Speed and Agility in Communication: Radios provide immediate connectivity in areas where cell phone coverage may be inconsistent, offering a critical advantage over traditional mobile communication.Multi-Channel Communication Needs: Larger events require multiple radio channels to manage different teams, such as core staff, volunteers, and officials, ensuring clear and targeted communication for various event functions.Planning and Testing for Effective Communication: Organizers should conduct radio system tests weeks or even months in advance to confirm coverage and address potential issues, especially in new or large venues.Danielle Aamodt brings a wealth of experience, having worked across various roles in the equine industry for over a decade. With a degree in equine studies from Centenary University and an MBA, she has held positions ranging from horse training and show management to leadership roles at the United States Equestrian Federation. Currently, she works with the Mustang Heritage Foundation, helping to domesticate and support wild horses. Danielle's diverse background provides her with a unique perspective on the logistical demands of equestrian events.

Carolyn Stash, Atlas Trax owner and founder of Pink Ladies Fishing Team, talks about empowering women with competitive fishing tournaments.

For more than two decades, Brian Norris has played a pivotal role in the world of aviation. This includes his close collaboration with air show legend Sean D. Tucker. This discussion delves into the nuances of their partnership, examining the advancements in air show technology and the lasting impact they've had on the industry. What has it been like working alongside one of the most iconic figures in air shows? How has technology, especially in communication systems, evolved over the years to support such high-intensity performances?In this episode of Radios in Action, host Ray Novak, Senior Sales Manager at Icom, chats with Brian Norris, CEO of Norris Aeroworks, about his extensive career. The discussion covers Norris's experience in the air show industry, the evolution of aviation technology, and the enduring friendship between him and Tucker.Key Discussion Points:- The challenges and innovations involved in maintaining and improving air show aircraft over 25 years.- The role of lightweight communication systems in enhancing air show performances, with a focus on ICOM handheld radios.- The personal and professional journey of Brian Norris, from a career in the military to becoming a key figure in the aviation industry.Brian Norris, the CEO of Norris Aeroworks, has had a diverse and impactful career in aviation. He has worked closely with Sean D. Tucker for nearly 25 years, contributing significantly to the air show community. Norris's background includes military aviation training, extensive experience in aircraft maintenance, and a passion for preserving aviation history. He continues to inspire through his work and dedication to the field.

Captain Kelly discusses the facts and what’s fiction on looking at the differences and effectiveness of X-band and S-band radars.

Mark Henderson, an OEM Sales Manager and captain of the Liquid Fire Fishing Team, discusses turning his family hobby into a family business.