The Icom CS-2200 (also known as CS-2200H) is the official cloning and programming software designed specifically for the Icom IC-2200H VHF mobile transceiver. It provides a user-friendly Windows interface for managing the radio's extensive 207 memory channels and complex settings. Key Features of CS-2200 Software
Memory Channel Management: Easily create, edit, and organize 200 standard memories, 6 scan edges, and 1 call channel.
Detailed Customization: Set frequencies, repeater offsets, and alphanumeric labels (up to 6 characters).
Tone Signaling: Configure CTCSS (50 tones) and DTCS (104 tones) for squelch operations.
D-STAR Support: If the optional UT-118 digital unit is installed, the software allows configuration of D-STAR parameters.
Backup & Deployment: Read current settings from the radio to create a backup or quickly write identical configurations across multiple IC-2200H units. Required Equipment
To use the CS-2200 software, you need a compatible programming cable to connect the radio's microphone jack to your computer:
USB Options: The Icom OPC-478UC or newer OPC-478UD (supports Windows 10/11).
RS-232 Option: The legacy OPC-478 for older PCs with serial ports.
Third-Party Alternatives: Retailers like RT Systems offer the WCS-2200 kit, which includes proprietary software and the USB-29A cable for both Windows and Mac. Quick Setup Guide CS-2200 Icom IC-2200H Programming Software
Install Drivers: Connect your USB programming cable and ensure the correct drivers (e.g., for Icom OPC-478UD) are installed.
Connect Radio: Plug the cable into the radio's MIC connector and the PC's USB port.
Read First: Open the software and select "Read from Transceiver" (Cloning > Read). This "syncs" the software with your radio's specific firmware and current settings.
Edit & Write: Make your frequency or tone changes, then use the "Write" function to upload them back to the radio. WCS-2200 Programming Kit for the Icom IC-2200 - RT Systems
(specifically the CS-2200H version) is the official Icom cloning and programming software designed for the Icom IC-2200H
2-meter mobile transceiver. It allows users to manage frequencies, memory banks, and radio settings through a computer interface rather than manual front-panel entry. Core Software Features Memory Management
: Easily program and organize the radio's 207 alphanumeric memory channels, including 6 scan edges and 1 call channel. Bank Organization
: Users can group channels into memory banks and manage bank links for scanning. Tone & Digital Settings : Supports programming of (50 tones) and
(104 codes) for repeater access. It also manages D-STAR settings if the optional UT-118 digital board is installed. Radio Configuration The Icom CS-2200 (also known as CS-2200H) is
: Allows adjustment of set-mode options such as transmit power, backlight intensity, and programmable microphone button functions. RT Systems, Inc. Hardware & Connection Requirements WCS-2200 Programming Kit for the Icom IC-2200 - RT Systems
Managing CTCSS tones and DTCS codes is a headache via the radio’s menu system. The CS-2200 software presents a dropdown menu for every channel, allowing you to set encode/decode tones instantly. It also supports odd split tones (different encode/decode frequencies), which is impossible to configure easily on the front panel.
RT Systems is the most famous alternative. Their "IC-2200H Programming Software" is technically not called CS-2200, but it serves the same function. It features a more modern UI, native Windows 10/11 support, and better USB cable integration. While it costs slightly more ($49–$69), many hams prefer it for its "just works" philosophy.
Warning: Avoid "free" generic CHIRP software for the IC-2200H. As of the latest builds, CHIRP does not officially support the IC-2200H’s memory structure. Using unsupported software can corrupt your radio.
Before you even launch the CS-2200 software, you need to solve the hardware puzzle. The IC-2200H uses a 4-pin modular (RJ-11) jack on the front panel labeled "DATA." You cannot use a standard phone cord.
The Official Route: Icom’s OPC-478 programming cable. This is a genuine RS-232 (serial) cable. The problem? Modern computers don’t have serial ports.
The Practical Route: USB programming cables. Many third-party manufacturers (e.g., BTECH, Valley Enterprises) produce USB-to-TTL cables designed for the IC-2200H. When buying one, ensure the listing explicitly says "For IC-2200H."
Driver Note: Most USB cables use the Prolific PL-2303 or FTDI chipset. You will need to install these drivers before plugging in the cable. On Windows 10/11, you may need to disable driver signature enforcement or find legacy drivers, as the IC-2200H is an older rig.
The software is useless without the right hardware. The Icom IC-2200H uses a modular microphone connection for programming. You cannot use a standard USB printer cable. OEM OPC-478/OPC-478UC: The official Icom cloning cable
You have two options:
Pro Tip: If you buy the RT Systems software bundle, it includes their proprietary USB-29C cable. This is the safest path for non-technical users.
Legacy software is the biggest hurdle. Here is how to get the official CS-2200 running on a modern PC.
Step 1: Driver Management Before plugging in the cable, install the driver for your USB-to-Serial chip. For PL2303 chips, download the driver directly from Prolific’s website. For FTDI, use Windows Update. Do not let Windows auto-install; it often picks the wrong driver.
Step 2: Compatibility Mode
Right-click the CS-2200 Setup.exe file. Select Properties > Compatibility.
Step 3: Identify COM Port Open Device Manager (Win+X > M). Expand "Ports (COM & LPT)." Note the COM number (e.g., COM4). The CS-2200 software only looks at COM1-COM4. If your cable is on COM7, you must go into Device Manager > Port Settings > Advanced > change COM Port Number to COM2.
Step 4: Software Configuration Launch CS-2200. Go to Settings > Communications Port. Select your COM port and set speed to 4800 baud (the IC-2200H’s native speed). Click "Test." You should hear a relay click in the radio and see "OK."
Step 5: Read and Edit Click Radio > Read. This pulls the current memory into the PC. Now, edit the spreadsheet. You can copy/paste rows from Excel.
Step 6: Write Once edited, click Radio > Write. The software will flash the memory. Do not touch the power or cable during this 20-second process.
It is worth noting that while CS-2200 is the official Icom software, many hams opt for third-party solutions like RT Systems (ADMS-1H).