In this episode of Cliff’s Notes on Amateur Radio, I sit down with Jim Newcomb, the founder of Lido Radio Products, to explore his incredible journey through the world of Amateur Radio and entrepreneurship. From his unexpected start at Icom America to creating one of the most trusted names in mobile radio mounting solutions, Jim shares behind-the-scenes insights, fascinating stories, and valuable lessons learned along the way.

We’ll delve into:

• How Icom America grew into an industry leader and innovated the first solid-state amateur radios.
• Jim’s early career at Icom and his eventual transition into Amateur Radio as part of his professional growth.
• The groundbreaking release of the IC-706 and how it shaped mobile radio installations.
• The problem that inspired Jim to create Lido Radio Products—solving the challenge of installing radios in high-end vehicles without drilling holes.
• Jim’s passion for antenna design, low-power (QRP) operation, and the magic of radio communication.

Whether you're just starting in Amateur Radio, returning to the hobby after years away, or a seasoned operator curious about the intersection of radio technology and entrepreneurial spirit, this episode offers inspiration and insight.

1. Jim’s Start at Icom America:
   • How a chance job referral led Jim to a career at Icom.
   • The pivotal role of mentorship and hands-on learning in his journey.
2. Behind the Scenes of Icom’s Success:
   • The development of innovative products like the IC-706.
   • How Icom’s commitment to engineering excellence shaped the industry.
3. The Birth of Lido Radio Products:
   • The customer question that sparked the idea for no-drill radio mounts.
   • Jim’s journey from part-time side hustle to a full-time business.
4. The Magic of Radio:
   • Jim’s fascination with antenna design and QRP operation.
   • Stories about the physics and wonder of radio communication.

• "Icom’s IC-706 changed everything." Hear how this revolutionary product cemented Icom’s place as a leader in Amateur Radio.
• "No one wanted to drill holes in their cars." Discover the story behind Lido Radio’s signature no-drill mounting solutions.
• "I just love the science of radio." Jim shares his personal passion for low-power operation and the art of antenna design.

• Lido Radio Products Website

In this episode, I continue sharing my initial amateur radio gear purchases after selling my 1974 Classic Volkswagen Beetle, which provided me with a $9,000 budget for the hobby.

Radio Purchases

• ICOM 7300 - For Home Base Station - Amazon Link
• Yaesu FT-891 - For Mobile / Portable Use - Amazon Link
• Yaesu YSK-891 Separation Kit for FT-891 - Amazon Link
• Lido heavy Duty Cup Holder - Direct Link

Antenna Related Purchases

• Yaesu ATAS 120A - Mobile Auto Tuning Antenna - Amazon Link
• LDG Z-11 PRO II Antenna Tuner - Home or Portable Use - Amazon Link
• LDG-Y-ACC Cable - Tuner Cable for Yaesu FT-891 - Amazon Link
• Diamond K400C Trunk/Hatchback Mount with 6Ft Coax - Amazon Link
• Rig Expert Stick 500 Antenna Analyzer - Direct Link
• MyAntennas.com EFHW 40-10 2K - Direct Link

Power Related Purchases

• Wattcycle 12v 100Ah LifePO4 Battery Mini with Bluetooth - Amazon Link
• Renogy 100 Watt 12V Portable Solar Panel w/ 20A Charge Controller - Amazon Link
• Sunforce 7 Amp Charge Controller - Amazon Link
• LiTime 12V 20A AC Battery Charger - Amazon Link
• ANKG 150A Watt Power Analyzer w/ PowerPole connections - Amazon Link

The HamAlert app is a fantastic tool to ensure you never miss when I’m activating a park. Available on both iOS and Android, HamAlert lets you set a trigger to receive push notifications whenever my call sign, KQ4UUR, is spotted.

With a simple setup, you’ll get instant alerts showing the park I’m activating and the frequency where I was most recently spotted. Whether you’re chasing parks or just want to tune in to my activations, HamAlert keeps you in the loop, real-time, so you can easily make contact.

Download either the ANDROID APP or the IOS APP