WorldwideDX Amateur Radio Forums

GPS Logging

I tested the GPS logging feature, which works quite well. There are two ways to activate the logger. The first way is to just hit the QUICK MENU button and scroll down to the menu that says <<GPS LOGGER ONLY>>. It will confirm that you really want to do this and then activate. When you use this mode, all radio functions are turned off. The second method is to use the regular MENU button, go to the GPS menu and then turn GPS LOGGER to ON. This method allows you to use the radio while logging. I tossed it in my Jeep and went for a ride to test it out. To deactivate the GPS logging, you go back into the MENU and turn GPS LOGGER to OFF.

The log is saved on the microSD Card in the GPS folder. The file is in standard NMEA format. I had no problem converting the log file using GPS Babel software to Google Earth's KML format and importing it into Google Earth.

Here's a screenshot of the logger information in Google Earth:

I'm following your review with great interest, nicely done !

Would it be possible to get more information (official or not) about the audio TX issues ?
Is this something that could be addressed by a firmware update ?

As you wish!

I got a buddy to do a recording using a voice recorder app on his phone. I've attached the unedited audio file that demonstrates the difference between the Icom ID-31a and a Yaesu VX-8. It probably doesn't contrast as well on computer speakers as it does on a radio, but the difference he described was that it sounded like I had a blanket over my head while talking through the Icom. You can hear that the audio quality is certainly usable, it's probably just not quite what we're used to hearing from an HT.

Attached Files

icom ID-31a vs yaesu vx-8.mp3 (3.27 MB, 50 views)

The difference between the two isn't nearly as dramatic on the computer/recording as it is live. On the air I can't tell the difference between your Yaesu, Kenwood or Baofeng, but the first syllable out of your mouth on the ID-31A and I know EXACTLY which radio you're on.

You had mentioned that the tone difference may be due to a waterproof membrane or mic element on the Icom, but both your Kenwood and Yaesu are waterproof too, aren't they?

The Yaesu VX-8 is waterproof; the Kenwood is not.

Thanks ! So this was on FM and not in DV mode right ?

Correct.

So .. Do you like it ?

Also .. How do you like D-Star