Icom Ci V Usb Interface Schematic Top

Below is a functional block diagram of the classic, proven “top-level” CI-V USB interface. Hundreds of online projects and commercial products (like the CT-17 or U5 Linker) follow this design.

       +---------------------+
       |   USB Connector     |
       +----------+----------+
                  |
       +----------v----------+
       |  USB-to-Serial IC   |
       |  (FT232RL / CH340)  |
       |  - TTL Out (TxD)    |---(0/3.3V)---+
       |  - TTL In (RxD)     |<--(0/3.3V)---+
       +----------+----------+              |
                  |                         |
       +----------v----------+              |
       |  Logic Inverter     |              |
       |  (Transistor/NAND)  |              |
       +----------+----------+              |
                  |                         |
       +----------v----------+              |
       |  Bidirectional      |              |
       |  Buffer / Open-     |              |
       |  Collector Driver   |<-------------+
       +----------+----------+
                  |
       +----------v----------+
       |  CI-V Connector     |
       |  (3.5mm stereo or   |
       |  2-pin phoenix)     |
       +---------------------+

For decades, Icom’s CI-V (Communication Interface V) protocol has been the backbone of computer control for Icom transceivers. Whether you own an IC-7300, IC-9700, IC-705, or a legacy unit like the IC-706, the ability to link your radio to logging, digital mode, and remote control software transforms your operating experience.

While Icom sells official interfaces (e.g., CT-17), many operators prefer building their own CI-V to USB adapter. The search term "icom ci v usb interface schematic top" typically refers to the top-level or primary schematic diagram for converting USB (via an FTDI or CH340 chip) to the opto-isolated, half-duplex TTL serial required by CI-V. icom ci v usb interface schematic top

This article provides a complete, top-to-bottom analysis of the CI-V USB interface—its schematic topology, component selection, PCB layout considerations, and practical build notes.


If you prefer a ready-made product, several commercial interfaces appear at the top of search results, including: Below is a functional block diagram of the

However, building from a top-quality schematic gives you complete control over isolation quality, component choice, and cost (under $15).


Let’s expand into a real component-level schematic. This is the most common top design found in Icom CI-V interfaces (e.g., the “RA0SMS CI-V” design or the “K8ZTT USB-to-CI-V”): If you prefer a ready-made product, several commercial


If you want, I can:

(Invoking related search suggestions...)


Below is a textual representation of the top-level schematic for a proven CI-V USB interface. Component values are typical for 9600–19200 baud operation (some radios support 38400 or 19200 baud; adjust accordingly).