Setting up a remotely operated station is a thing which separates casual amateurs with pros.
Not terribly difficult, but for most (myself included) there is a steep learning curve. Now, you may say – I have no real need for remote operation because I don’t have a remote site (yet). But think out of the box: how about setting a remote working station somewhere in your house? Maybe your radio is in a shack, and you wish to operate from your living room? Or other way around: to talk to your mates while BBQing? (NOTE: whatever you do, don’t setup a remote PC in your bedroom. Or if you do, don’t mention my name!)
Ideally, you really want your radio and antenna somewhere in the country, so you can enjoy that noise free band of your choice while residing in the city, operating remotely.
If you have an ICOM radio then RS-BA1 is the software that will make the remote connection happen. It has been around for a while, so the current release is as good as it gets.
The package contains an USB stick, it is the most recent version 2. The recommended retail price is $149.