Building your own Icom CI-V (Communications Interface 5) USB interface is a popular DIY project for amateur radio operators. It allows you to control transceivers—from older models like the IC-735 to modern rigs—via a computer using a single 3.5mm mono cable. Understanding the CI-V Bus
Power: Most USB CI-V interfaces are powered directly from the computer's 5V USB bus, eliminating the need for an external power supply.
The "Top" Interface Strategy: Because computers traditionally use RS-232 serial ports (with separate transmit/receive lines) and modern computers use USB, the "top" schematic for a CI-V interface is essentially a level converter.
Usually auto-sensing, but commonly set to 9600 or 19200 bps in software. Uses Hexadecimal framing starting with "FE FE" (Attention). CI-V Communications Interface-V, Reference Manual 3.2
ICOM CI-V USB Interface Schematic
: Solder the 1N4148 diode and 10k resistor between the TXD and RXD pins as specified in your chosen schematic to create the single-wire bus. Wire the 3.5mm Jack Connect the of the 3.5mm mono plug to the combined TXD/RXD line. Connect the to the GND pin of the USB module.