Now that the Yaesu FTX-1 has been released, it’s a great time to revisit and re-share one of my earlier videos—this one showing how I set up digital comms using the Icom IC-705 and a Microsoft Surface Go tablet.
This older setup still holds up extremely well today, and it serves as a solid reference point for comparing the FTX-1’s wireless capabilities.
One of the IC-705’s biggest advantages is its fully wireless functionality. Wi-Fi is used for digital data communications—allowing you to run modes like Winlink, JS8Call, VarAC, or FT8 without a single external audio or USB cable between the radio & tablet. Just connect over Wi-Fi and go. Bluetooth, on the other hand, is used specifically for wireless voice communications, such as pairing a headset or microphone.
Here’s the original video if you missed it the first time, or want to revisit it with the Yaesu FTX-1 in mind:
Video demonstrating wireless digital communications with the Icom IC-705 and Microsoft Surface Go, highlighting cable-free operation using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for modes like Winlink, JS8Call, VarAC, and FT8.
https://youtu.be/r22xilag_9A?si=ziGSVVbAzm6Fz5ZM
- The Icom IC-705 makes all of this possible right out of the box. There’s no need to add modules or hunt down optional accessories to make wireless operation work. The radio includes:
- A built-in Wi-Fi module for wireless digital data communications
- An integrated Bluetooth module for wireless voice peripherals like headsets or microphones
- A fully functional internal GPS, which can also be accessed by applications on your laptop or tablet via a virtual COM port—perfect for mapping, APRS, or location-tagged logging tools
Everything you need for true cable-free operation is already onboard. That’s one of the reasons the IC-705 continues to set the standard for portable, field-ready digital comms—especially when paired with a compact device like the Microsoft Surface Go.
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Julian oh8stn
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I was looking for a recent review of the IC-705 to see if it still held up well against recent competition, as it seems to be a remarkably complete unit, a portable shack in a box if you like. I was also hunting for rumours of there being a sequel, as this has been around for a while, and I am seeing discounting by dealers now.
Well if we listen to the “For Hire” reviews on YouTube, the ftx1 is the latest greatest new thing. I would suggest the Icom IC-705 is still the king in this category as it offers more efficient output power, lower receive current, completely wireless audio and Cat control over Bluetooth for audio and Wi-Fi for cat control, and the embedded GPS. The only thing the IC-705 is really missing compared to that new radio is dual receive.