After having purchased an enclosure for the Icom IC-705 by W2HVH enclosures (www.w2hvh.com), I contacted the owner and asked if he could custom build a case for my Icom 7300.
For the past several years, I have been using a Novexcomm 3U enclosure for my 7300 in a rigid Gator box. This solution has worked for me and I have deployed it for field day previously, but I wanted more of an all-in-one solution that was ready to go and field-deployable for field use.
OLD NOVEXCOMM UNIT IN FOREGROUND, NEW W2HVH ENCLOSURE IN BACKGROUND
I reached out to W2HVH and discussed a custom build project for one assembly in an easy to carry soft-case which securely housed the radio, a speaker, I/O ports on the front bezel including a data port, SO-239, power-poles, USB-C, USB-A, a voltmeter and a grounding lug. W2HVH and I collaborated on a size, design, carrying case, etc. With a bit of trial and error, here is what I received - and it works great.
I shipped an LDG Z100A tuner to Florida for its installation in the enclosure. Upon arrival, I installed my Bioenno 15AH battery and my 7300. Here are a few photos of the assembly:
Other I/O, such as the key jack as well as included fuse blocks, etc. are accessible by a rear zip hatch:
The unit fits very comfortably in the back of my Suburban between the second row seats, making it perfect for in-vehicle operation. Just connect an antenna and you're good to go. No more cables, time-consuming setup, etc. 100w of power, 15AH of battery, tuner controlled from the radio interface and access to charge a laptop or to connect more batteries, solar or a charger for more power:
Here is a photo of my IC-705 field kit, also from W2HVH:
The 705 unit is much lighter and smaller, and has the AH-705 tuner within the enclosure. It shipped with just the enclosure, the bag and a 4AH Bioenno battery. I added my own IC-705 radio and AH-705 tuner.
The craftsmanship, workmanship and communication with the owner, W2HVH is incredible and greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend his products. It's refreshing to be able to get high-quality, assembled custom equipment such as this from an experienced, skilled craftsman. (Made by Ralph Sangataldo in Florida / W2HVH). Thank you Ralph!
Travis Dyson / KB4TAD
Looks like a keeper