This is the question I get asked most. The IC-7300 has a built-in USB sound card and CAT control, so a single USB cable handles both audio and rig control. Once it’s set up, FT8, FT4, Winlink and your logging software all work through that one cable.
Level: Beginner | Time: About 15 minutes | Note: Menu names can shift slightly between firmware versions.
What You’ll Need
- A USB A-to-B cable (the “printer cable” style). A shielded one with ferrites helps.
- Clip-on ferrite chokes for the USB and power cables, to keep RF out.
- A Windows, Mac or Linux computer.
Step 1: Install the Driver First
On Windows, download and install the IC-7300 USB driver from Icom’s website before you plug in the cable. Plugging in first is the most common reason the radio won’t show up.
Step 2: Plug In and Find Your COM Port
Connect the cable and turn on the radio. In Windows Device Manager, look under Ports (COM & LPT) for Silicon Labs CP210x USB to UART Bridge (COMx). Write down that COM number. You’ll also see a new sound device called USB Audio CODEC.
Step 3: Radio Settings
Go to MENU > SET > Connectors and set:
- ACC/USB Output Select: AF
- ACC/USB AF Output Level: start around 50%
- USB MOD Level: start around 50%
- DATA MOD: USB
Then open CI-V (also under Connectors) and set:
- CI-V USB Baud Rate: 115200
- CI-V USB Echo Back: OFF
- CI-V Address: leave at 94h (the default)
Step 4: Software Settings
In WSJT-X (or most other programs), choose Icom IC-7300 as the rig, pick the COM port from Step 2, set baud to 115200 and PTT to CAT. For audio in and out, select USB Audio CODEC. Click Test CAT. If the button turns green, you’re connected.
Gotchas
- Watch the ALC meter. On digital modes, keep ALC at or near zero. Lower the USB MOD Level or the software’s power slider if it’s climbing.
- Random disconnects when you transmit? That’s usually RF getting into the USB cable. Add ferrites at both ends.
- Baud rates must match. The radio and the software both need to say 115200.
Coming Thursday: using this setup to get on FT8.
Your Turn
Did it work the first time, or did something trip you up? Ask your questions in the comments below. If I don’t know the answer, I’ll find out.
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