is an optional internal plug-in board designed for older Icom HF transceivers, such as the Icom IC-725 Icom IC-728 The standout "solid feature" of this unit is that it enables AM transmit and FM transmit/receive capabilities that are otherwise non-functional on these radios. Key Capabilities of the UI-7 Enables Missing Modes
: Without this board, the AM/FM buttons on your radio's front panel will not work for those specific modes. 10-Meter FM Repeater Use
: When paired with an optional tone encoder (like the UT-20), the UI-7 allows you to operate on 10-meter FM repeaters Full Power FM : Once installed, it typically allows for 100 watts of output on FM and roughly 40 watts on AM (depending on the specific radio model). Plug-and-Play Design
: It is a small add-on board that plugs directly into the bottom of the radio's chassis, often requiring only a few internal cable connections to the existing front panel and main logic units. Applicable Radios
The UI-7 is confirmed to be compatible with the following Icom models: Icom IC-725 Icom IC-728 (including M and S variants) Universal Radio : This unit is not required Icom IC-726
, as those models have these modes built-in from the factory. Universal Radio Are you planning to a UI-7 in an IC-725, or are you looking for troubleshooting tips for an existing unit? RigPix Database - Accessories - Icom UI-7
The Icom UI-7 AM/FM Unit is a classic "hidden gem" for amateur radio enthusiasts who own vintage Icom transceivers like the IC-725, IC-721, or IC-728.
For many operators, this small plug-in board was the final piece of the puzzle, transforming a standard HF rig into a more versatile "all-mode" station. Here is what makes it interesting: The Missing Link
If you’ve ever pressed the "AM/FM" button on an Icom IC-725 and nothing happened, it’s because the UI-7 wasn't installed. This unit was an optional upgrade that officially unlocked the radio's ability to: Transmit in AM mode (usually at 10–40 watts).
Transmit and Receive in FM mode (up to 100 watts), perfect for 10-meter repeaters. A Piece of Radio History icom ui-7 am fm unit
Manufactured in Japan during the late 80s and early 90s, the UI-7 is now a sought-after collectible on the second-hand market. Since these units are long discontinued, finding one in good condition often requires scouring specialized sites like Radioworld UK or auction platforms like eBay. DIY Modernization
Installing the unit is a satisfying project for ham hobbyists. It requires opening the radio's case and plugging the board into specific internal locations (like connectors J21 and J22). Once installed, it allows the radio to support additional accessories like the UT-30 Tone Encoder, which is necessary for triggering modern repeaters.
The Icom UI-7 AM/FM Unit is an internal plug-in module designed to expand the operational capabilities of specific Icom HF transceivers, most notably the Icom IC-725, IC-726, and IC-728/729.
While these radios often feature "AM/FM" buttons on the front panel by default, they frequently lack the necessary internal circuitry to actually transmit in these modes or receive FM signals without this optional board. 📻 Core Functionality
Mode Expansion: Enables FM transmission and reception, allowing users to access 10-meter FM repeaters and simplex frequencies.
Transmission Support: Specifically enables AM transmission. Without this unit, many compatible radios can receive AM broadcasts but cannot transmit in AM mode.
Squelch Integration: Activates the squelch function for FM mode, which is essential for quiet monitoring of frequencies when no signal is present. 🛠️ Key Specifications
Compatibility: Designed for the "7-series" entry-level HF rigs, including the IC-725, IC-726, IC-728, and IC-729.
Installation Type: Internal plug-in board. It typically requires opening the transceiver's case and connecting multi-pin jumpers to the main logic or RF boards. is an optional internal plug-in board designed for
Operating Voltage: Powered directly by the transceiver's internal 13.8V DC rail. 🔌 Installation Overview
The UI-7 is generally considered a user-installable option, though it requires basic comfort with internal radio components:
Access: Remove the top and bottom covers of the transceiver.
Mounting: The unit typically mounts to a specific area on the main or front-panel board using provided screws or standoffs.
Wiring: Connect the short and long jumper wires (often labeled for specific pins like J21 and J22) as specified in the radio's instruction manual.
Verification: Once installed, the "AM/FM" button on the front panel will cycle through the modes, and the radio will successfully key up in these modes.
💡 Quick Tip: If you are buying a used IC-725 or IC-728, always check if the UI-7 is already installed. Many operators consider it a "must-have" for full utility, and finding the standalone module today can be difficult as they are no longer in production. If you'd like, I can help you with:
Finding a PDF of the specific installation diagrams for your radio model.
Identifying alternative modes or filters (like the FL-100/101) for your rig. The Icom UT-106: This is a very famous
Troubleshooting common issues after installation, such as low AM drive or FM squelch problems.
It is highly likely you are referring to one of two things:
Given that you specified "AM FM unit," I am proceeding with a review of the Icom UT-106 AM/FM Controller Unit, which is the internal module that adds broadcast radio reception to marine handhelds.
Let’s weigh the pros and cons.
The Verdict: A nostalgic "must-have" for owners of vintage Icom marine handhelds, but effectively obsolete for modern users.
The UT-106 is not a standalone radio; it is a small circuit board module designed to be inserted into specific Icom marine VHF handheld transceivers (such as the Icom M1, M1V, M3, and M11). Its purpose is simple: it allows the user to listen to commercial AM and FM broadcast radio stations while out on the water.
This is the feature that gives the UI-7 its "AM/FM Unit" title. The receiver covers the standard broadcast bands:
This is critical. The VHF antenna on your mast is NOT used for AM/FM broadcast. The UI-7 requires a dedicated AM/FM antenna (typically an 8-foot whip or a powered marine antenna) connected to the "ANT" jack on the back of the main transceiver (M605/M400BB). If you skip this, the AM/FM tuner will receive nothing but static.