Icom IC-M90E User Manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL

iM90E

VHF MARINE TRANSCEIVER

i

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

If your vessel requires assistance, contact other vessels and
the Coast Guard by sending a distress call on Channel 16.

❍ USING CHANNEL 16

DISTRESS CALL PROCEDURE

1. “MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY.”

2. “THIS IS ...........................” (name of vessel)

3. Your call sign or other indication of the ves­sel.

4. “LOCATED AT .....................” (your position)

5. The nature of the distress and assistance re­quired.

6. Any other information which might facilitate
the rescue.

RECOMMENDATION

CLEAN THE TRANSCEIVER THOROUGHLY WITH FRESH

WATER after exposure to saltwater, and dry it before opera-

tion. Otherwise, the transceiver’s keys, switches and con­trollers may become inoperable due to salt crystallization.

NOTE: DO NOT remove the battery pack when cleaning the
transceiver thoroughly with fresh water. Water may enter into
the transceiver, and damage it.

MIC
/SP

ii

FOREWORD

Thank you for purchasing this Icom radio. The IC-M90E VHF
MARINE TRANSCEIVER is designed and built with Icom’s state
of the art technology and craftsmanship. With proper care this
product should provide you with years of trouble-free operation.

IMPORTANT

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS carefully and com-

pletely before using the transceiver.

SAVE THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL—This in-

struction manual contains important operating instructions for
the IC-M90E.

EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS

FEATURES

☞ Waterproof construction

Built tough to withstand the punishing marine environ­ment, the IC-M90E meets IPX7 waterproof specification
while using BP-223 (option), BP-224 (option) or BP-225.
In addition to, the speaker grill adopts a new structure
which drains water or seawater easily.

☞ Dualwatch and tri-watch functions

Convenient functions which allow you to monitor the dis­tress channel (Ch 16) while receiving one other channel of
your choice (dualwatch), or while receiving one other
channel of your choice and the call channel (tri-watch).
See p. 14 for details.

☞ Large, easy-to-read LCD

With dimensions of 19(H) ×35(W) mm, the IC-M90E’s func­tion display is easy to read and shows operating conditions
at a glance. Backlighting and contrast can be adjusted to
suit your preferences.

☞ Simple operation

6 large buttons on the front panel provide user-friendly op­eration. The independent volume and channel buttons are
located on the front panel for convenient one-handed op­eration.

WORD

RWARNING

CAUTION

NOTE

Personal injury, fire hazard or electric shock
may occur.

Equipment damage may occur.
If disregarded, inconvenience only. No risk

of personal injury, fire or electric shock.

DEFINITION

iii

PRECAUTION

RWARNING! NEVER connect the transceiver to an

AC outlet. This may pose a fire hazard or result in an electric
shock.

RWARNING! NEVER hold the transceiver so that the

antenna is closer than 2.5 cm from exposed parts of the body,
especially the face or eyes, while transmitting. The trans­ceiver will perform best if the microphone is 5 to 10 cm away
from the lips and the transceiver is vertical.

NEVER connect the transceiver to a power source other

than the BP-225, BP-224 or BP-223. Such a connection will
ruin the transceiver.

AVOID using or placing the transceiver in direct sunlight or

in areas with temperatures below –15°C or above +55°C
: MARINE, –25°C or above +55°C : PMR.

KEEP the transceiver out of the reach of children.
KEEP the transceiver at least 0.9 meters away from your

vessel’s magnetic navigation compass.

MAKE SURE the flexible antenna and battery pack are

securely attached to the transceiver, and that the antenna and
battery pack are dry before attachment. Exposing the inside
of the transceiver to water will result in serious damage to the
transceiver.

BE CAREFUL! The IC-M90E employs waterproof con-

struction, which corresponds to IPX7 waterproof specification
(1 m depth for 30 min.). However, once the transceiver has
been dropped, waterproofing cannot be guaranteed due to
the fact that the transceiver may be cracked, or the water­proof seal damaged, etc.

Icom, Icom Inc. and the logo are registered trademarks of Icom Incor­porated (Japan) in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France,
Spain, Russia and/or other countries.

iv

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY ............................................................ i

RECOMMENDATION.......................................................................i

FOREWORD ................................................................................... ii

IMPORTANT .................................................................................... ii

EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS ................................................................. ii

FEATURES......................................................................................ii

PRECAUTION ................................................................................ iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS..................................................................iv

1 OPERATING RULES ................................................................. 1

2 SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS ............... 2–3

■ Supplied accessories............................................................... 2

■ Attachments............................................................................. 2

3 PANEL DESCRIPTION .......................................................... 4–6

■ Front, top and side panels.......................................................4

■ Function display ...................................................................... 5

4 BASIC OPERATION ............................................................. 7–11

■ Channel selection ...................................................................7

■ Receiving and transmitting ...................................................... 9

■ Call channel programming .................................................... 10

■ Lock function ......................................................................... 10

■ Signal strength indicator .......................................................10

■ Monitor function ....................................................................10

■ Adjusting the squelch level .................................................... 11

■ Backlighting function ............................................................. 11

■ Voice scrambler operation .....................................................11

5 SCAN OPERATION ........................................................... 12–13

■ Scan types ............................................................................ 12

■ Setting tag channels .............................................................13

■ Starting a scan ...................................................................... 13

6 DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH ...................................................... 14

■ Description ............................................................................ 14

■ Operation .............................................................................. 14

7 LAND (PMR) CHANNEL OPERATION .................................... 15

■ LAND (PMR) channel group ................................................. 15

■ CTCSS and DTCS display .................................................... 15

■ VOX function ......................................................................... 15

8 SET MODE ......................................................................... 16–21

■ SET mode programming ....................................................... 16

■ SET mode items ...................................................................17

9 BATTERY CHARGING ....................................................... 22–25

■ Battery charging .................................................................... 22

■ Battery cautions .................................................................... 22

■ Optional battery case ............................................................ 23

■ Optional battery chargers ...................................................... 24

10 OPTIONAL SWIVEL BELT CLIP ............................................. 26

■ MB-86 contents ..................................................................... 26

■ Attachment ............................................................................ 26

■ Detachment ........................................................................... 26

11 OPTIONAL SPEAKER-MICROPHONE .................................. 27

■ HM-125 descriptions ............................................................. 27

■ Attachment ............................................................................ 27

12 TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................. 28

13 VHF MARINE CHANNEL LIST ............................................... 29

14 SPECIFICATIONS ................................................................... 30

15 OPTIONS ................................................................................. 31

16 QUICK REFERENCE .............................................................. 32

17 ABOUT DOC ........................................................................... 34

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17

1

OPERATING RULES

1

D Priorities

• Read all rules and regulations pertaining to priorities and
keep an up-to-date copy handy. Safety and distress calls
take priority over all others.

• You must monitor Channel 16 when you are not operating
on another channel.

• False or fraudulent distress calls are prohibited under law.

D Privacy

• Information overheard but not intended for you cannot law­fully be used in any way.

• Indecent or profane language is prohibited.

D Radio licenses

(1) SHIP STATION LICENSE

When your craft is equipped with a VHF FM transceiver, you
must have a current radio station license before using the
transceiver. It is unlawful to operate a ship station which is not
licensed.

Inquire through your dealer or the appropriate government
agency for a Ship-Radiotelephone license. This license in­cludes the call sign which is your craft’s identification for radio
purposes.

(2) OPERATOR’S LICENSE

A restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit is the license
most often held by small vessel radio operators when a radio
is not required for safety purposes.

The Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit must be
posted near the transceiver or be kept with the operator. Only
a licensed radio operator may operate a transceiver.

However, non-licensed individuals may talk over a transceiver
if a licensed operator starts, supervises, ends the call and
makes the necessary log entries.

A current copy of the applicable government rules and regu­lations is only required to be on hand for vessels in which a
radio telephone is compulsory. However, even if you are not
required to have these on hand it is your responsibility to be
thoroughly acquainted with all pertinent rules and regulations.

2

2

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES AND ATTACHMENTS

1
2

■ Supplied accessories

The following accessories are supplied: Qty.

• Handstrap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

• Belt clip (MB-103) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

• Ni-Cd battery pack (BP-225) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

• Battery charger (BC-158)* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

• Screws for the BC-158 (M3.5 × 20)* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

• AC adapter (BC-147E)* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

• Flexible antenna (FA-S59V) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

*Not supplied with some version.

■ Attachments

D Flexible antenna

Connect the supplied flexible an­tenna to the antenna connector.

CAUTION: Transmitting with­out an antenna may damage
the transceiver.
NEVER HOLD by the antenna
when carrying the transceiver.

D Handstrap

Pass the handstrap through the
loop on the top of the transceiver
as illustrated at right. Facilitates
carrying.

D Belt clip

Attach the belt clip to the transceiver as illustrated below.

IC

M

P

/S

Supplied screws

3

2

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES AND A TT ACHMENTS

ï Battery pack

To remove the battery pack:

Turn the screw counterclockwise, then pull the battery pack
in the direction of the arrow as shown below.

To attach the battery pack:

Insert the battery pack in the IC-M90E completely, then turn
the screw clockwise.

NEVER remove or insert the battery pack when the trans­ceiver is wet or soiled. This may result water or dust get­ting into the transceiver/battery pack and may result in the
transceiver being damaged.

NOTE: When removing or attaching the battery pack, use
a coin or flat-blade screwdriver to loosen or tighten the bot­tom screw.

CAUTION!:

When attaching or removing a battery pack, make sure the
rubber seal is set in the groove of the battery pack cor­rectly. If the seal is not neatly in the groove it may be dam­aged when attaching the battery pack.
If the seal is damaged, waterproofing is not guaranteed.

OPEN

L

O

C

K

Screw position
when removing battery

Screw position
when attaching battery

OPEN

L

O

C

K

Make sure both the rubber seal (purple) is set to the groove
correctly and dust or else does not adhere to it.

Battery pack

Battery pack

Rubber seal

Groove

Correct position

Incorrect position

NOTE:

When attaching a battery pack, make sure dust or else does
not adhere to the rubber seal. If dust or else is on the seal
when attaching a battery pack, the water resistant may be
reduced.

NOTE: When the lock screw does not easily (feels tight),
check to ensure the battery pack is sufficiently inserted to
the transceiver.

DO NOT bang or cause high impact to

the battery pack, as this may damage the battery pack/or
the transceiver.

4

3

PANEL DESCRIPTION

2
3

■ Front, top and side panels

q VOLUME CONTROL [VOL]

Turns power ON and adjusts the audio level.

w MICROPHONE CONNECTOR [MIC/SP]

Connects the optional external microphone.
NOTE: Attach the [MIC/SP] cap when the optional
speaker-microphone is not used.

e ANTENNA CONNECTOR

Connects the supplied antenna.

r TRANSMIT/RECEIVE INDICATOR

Lights green while receiving a signal or when the squelch
is open; lights red while transmitting; lights orange while
the VOX function is used.

t DIAL/CHANNEL GROUP KEY [DIAL]

• Selects one of 3 regular channels in sequence when
pushed for 1 sec. (pgs. 8, 15)

- U.S.A.*

1

(or ATIS*2), International and LAND (PMR)
channels are available.
*1U.K. version only.
*2German version only.

• Push to return to the condition before selecting the chan­nel when the priority channel or the call channel is se­lected.

y SCAN KEY [SCAN•

DUAL]

• Starts and stops normal or priority scan when pushed.
(pgs. 12, 13)

• Enters watch mode when pushed for 1 sec. (p. 14)

M

IC
/SP

q

e

r

y

t

w

i

u

o

!1

!0

5

3

PANEL DESCRIPTION

u TRANSMIT POWER/LOCK KEY [Hi/Lo• ]

• Selects high, middle or low power when pushed. (p. 9)

• Toggles the lock function ON/OFF when pushed for

1 sec. (p. 10)

i CHANNEL 16 KEY [16•

C]

• Selects Channel 16 when pushed. (p. 7)

• Selects call channel when pushed for 1 sec. (p. 7)

• Enters call channel write mode when the call channel is

selected and this key is pushed for 3 sec. (p. 10)

o CHANNEL UP/DOWN SWITCHES [YY]/[ZZ]

• Selects an operating channel. (pgs. 7–9)

• Selects the SET mode condition of the item. (p. 16)

• Selects the SET mode item when pushed with

[SQL

•MONI]. (p. 16)

• Checks tag channels or changes scanning direction dur-

ing scan. (p. 13)

!0 SQUELCH SWITCH [SQL•

MONI]

• Push this switch, then adjust the squelch level with
[YY]/[ZZ]. (p. 11)

• Manually opens the squelch for monitoring the channel
while pushed and held. (p. 10)

• While pushing this switch, turn power ON to enter the
SET mode. (p. 16)

• Selects the SET mode item. (p. 16)

!1 PTT SWITCH [PTT]

Push and hold to transmit; release to receive.

■ Function display

q SIGNAL STRENGTH INDICATOR (pgs. 10, 20)

Shows the relative signal strength while receiving signals.

w TRANSMIT POWER INDICATOR

• “LOW” appears when low power is selected.

• “MID” appears when middle power is selected.

• No indication appears when high power is selected.

e TAG CHANNEL INDICATOR (p. 13)

Appears when tag channel is selected.

r SQUELCH LEVEL INDICATOR (p. 11)

Shows the squelch level.

q r t yw e

u
i
o

!0
!1
!2

!4

!6

!5

!3

6

3

PANEL DESCRIPTION

3

t MONITOR INDICATOR (p. 10)

Appears when the monitor function is activated.

y BATTERY INDICATOR

Indicates remaining battery power.

u SCAN INDICATOR (p. 13)

“SCAN” blinks during scan.

i VOX INDICATOR (p. 15)

“VOX” appears when the VOX function is used.

o DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH INDICATORS (p. 14)

“DUAL” blinks during dualwatch; “TRI” blinks during tri­watch.

!0 SCRAMBLER INDICATOR

Appears when the optional voice scrambler is activated.
(pgs. 11, 20)

!1 DUPLEX INDICATOR

Appears when a duplex channel is selected.

!2 SUB CHANNEL READOUT

• Indicates Channel 16 during priority scan or dualwatch.
(p. 14)

• Indicates the SET mode items while in the SET mode.
(p. 16)

!3 CHANNEL NUMBER READOUT

• Indicates the selected operating channel number.

• In SET mode, indicates the selected condition.

!4 LOCK INDICATOR

Appears when the lock function is activated.

!5 CALL CHANNEL INDICATOR

Appears when the call channel is selected.

!6 CHANNEL GROUP INDICATOR

“I” appears when International; “U” appears when U.S.A.
(U.K. version only); “” appears when LAND (PMR)
channel group is selected. “A TIS” appears when the chan-
nel group in which ATIS function is activated (German ver­sion only).

Indication

Full Middle

Charging

required

No battery

Battery level

blinks when the battery is exhaustion.

blinks when the battery is over charged.

7

BASIC OPERATION

4

■ Channel selection

IMPORTANT!: Prior to using the transceiver for the first

time, the battery pack must be fully charged for optimum
life and operation. To avoid damage to the battery pack or
charger, turn the power OFF while charging.

D Channel 16

Channel 16 (Distress channel) is used for establishing initial
contact with another station and for emergency communica­tions. Channel 16 is automatically monitored during both
dualwatch and tri-watch. While standing by, you must monitor
Channel 16.

q Push [16•

C] to select Channel 16.

w Push [DIAL] to return to the condition before selecting

Channel 16, or push [Y]/[Z] to select the operating
channel.

D Call channel

Each regular channel group has separate call channels. In
addition, the call channel is monitored during tri-watch. The
call channels can be re-programmed (p. 10) and may be used
to store your most often used channel in each channel group
for quick recall.

q Push [16•

C] for 1 sec. to select the call channel.

•“CALL” and the call channel number appear.

• Call channel can be re-programmed. See the “Call channel
programming” on p. 10 for details.

w Push [DIAL] to return to the condition before selecting the

call channel, or push [Y]/[Z] to select the operating chan­nel.

Push

NOTE: Channel 16 is default setting.
(Depending on version)

for 1 sec.

Push

8

4

BASIC OPERATION

4

D

International, U.S.A.*1and ATIS*2channels

The IC-M90E has 57*3International, 59 U.S.A.*1and 57
ATIS*

2

channels. You must select the proper channels for the

operating area.

*3International channel numbers are depended on versions.

q Push [DIAL] to select the regular channel.
w Push [Y]/[Z] to select a channel.

•“DUP” appears for duplex channels.

e To change the channel group, push [DIAL] for 1 sec.

• International, U.S.A*1and ATIS*2channels can be selected in
sequence. Depending on the setting, LAND (PMR) channel can
be selected. See the “LAND (PMR) CHANNEL OPERATION” on
p. 15 for details.

*

1

U.K. version only.

*2German version only.

Push for 1 sec.

U.S.A. channels*

International
channels

1

Push for 1 sec.

ATIS channels*

2

9

4

BASIC OPERATION

■ Receiving and transmitting

q Rotate [VOL] clockwise to turn power ON.
w Set the volume and squelch level.

➥ Push [SQL•

MONI], and push [√] to open the squelch.

➥ Push [SQL•

MONI] to stop “SQL” indicator blinking, then

rotate [VOL] to set the volume level.

➥ Push [SQL•

MONI], and push [∫]/[√] to set the squelch

level.

e Push [Y]/[Z] to select the desired channel.

- When receiving a signal, the [TRANSMIT/RECEIVE] indicator
lights green while audio is emitted from the speaker.

- Further adjustment of [VOL] may be necessary at this point.

r Push [Hi/Lo• ] to select the output power if necessary.

- “LOW” appears when low power is selected; “MID” appears
when middle power is selected; no indication when high power is
selected.

- Choose low power to conserve battery power, choose high
power for longer distance communications.

t Push and hold [PTT] to transmit, then speak into the

microphone.

-

The [TRANSMIT/RECEIVE] indicator lights red while
transmitting.

- Channel 70 cannot be used for transmission.

y Release [PTT] to receive.

IMPORTANT: To maximize the readability of your trans­mitted signal, pause a few sec. after pushing [PTT], hold
the microphone 5 to 10 cm from your mouth and speak
into the microphone at a normal voice level.

NOTE: The transceiver has a power save function to con­serve the battery power. The power save function activates
automatically when no signal is received for 5 sec.

To prevent accidental prolonged transmission, etc., the IC­M90E has a time-out-timer function. This timer cuts a
transmission OFF after 5 min. of continuous transmission.

CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna may

damage the transceiver.

M

IC
/S

P

q Power ON
w Set volume

Speaker

t Push to transmit
y Release to receive

w Set the squelch level
e Set channel

w Set the squelch level

Microphone

r Set output power

10

4

BASIC OPERATION

4

■ Call channel programming

The call channel key is used to select the default channel,
however, you can program your most often-used channel in
each channel group for quick recall.

q Push [DIAL] for 1 sec. several times

to select the desired channel group
(INT, USA*

1

, ATIS*2) to be pro-

grammed.

*1U.K version only, *2German version only

w Push [16•C] for 1 sec. to select the

call channel.

•“CALL” and the call channel number
appear.

e Push [16•C

] again for 3 sec. (until a
long beep changes to 2 short beeps)
to enter call channel programming
condition.

• Call channel number to be programmed

flashes.

r Push [Y]/[Z] to select the desired

channel.

t Push [16•C] to program the dis-

played channel as the call channel.

• The call channel number stop

flashing.

■ Lock function

This function electronically locks all keys (except for [PTT],
[SQL•

MONI] and [Hi/Lo• ]) to prevent accidental channel

changes and function access.
➥ Push [Hi/Lo• ] for 1 sec. to turn the lock function ON

and OFF.

■ Signal strength indicator

The received signal strength level is indicated by number of
bars as below.
This indicator can be hidden by using the SET mode (p. 20) if
desired.

■ Monitor function

The monitor function releases the noise squelch mute manu­ally. This function is convenient when receiving a weak sig­nal, or when adjusting the volume level, etc.

➥ Push [SQL•MONI] for 1 sec. and keep holding to activate

the monitor function.

•“ ” appears and audio is emitted.

Appears while the lock
function is used.

Indication

Signal

strength

Strong Middle Weak

No signal or

very weak

11

4

BASIC OPERATION

■ Adjusting the squelch level

To adjust the IC-M90E’s squelch level, use the [Y]/[Z] keys as
described below. In order to receive signals properly, as well
as for the scan to function effectively, the squelch must be ad­justed to the proper level.

q Push [SQL•

MONI], then adjust the squelch level with [Y]/[Z].

- “SQL” indicator starts blinking.

- There are 11 squelch levels to choose from: OP is completely
open; 10 is tight squelch; 1 is loose squelch level.

w Push [SQL•

MONI] again to return to normal condition.

- When no switch is pushed for 5 sec., the transceiver returns to
normal condition.

■ Backlighting function

This function is convenient for nighttime operation. The back­lighting brightness can be adjusted in the SET mode. (p. 18)

➥ Push any key except [PTT] to turn the backlighting ON.

• The backlighting is automatically turned OFF after 5 sec. of
inactivity.

■ Voice scrambler operation

D Activating the scrambler

The voice scrambler provides private communications. In
order to receive or send scrambled transmissions, you must
activate the scrambler function first.

q

Select an operating
channel except Channel
16 or 70.

w While pushing and

holding [SQL•

MONI],

push [SCAN•

DUAL].

•“SCRM” appears.

e To turn the scrambler

function OFF, repeat
step w.

•“SCRM” disappears.

D Programming scramble codes

32 scrambler codes (1 to 32) are available for voice scrambler
operation. Set the code in the SET mode. In order to under­stand each other, all transceivers in your group must have the
same scrambler code. See p.

20

for “Scrambler code” setting

details.

Appears when the voice
scrambler function is in use.

Blinks during the squelch
level adjutment.

Indicates the
squelch level.

Push

12

5

SCAN OPERATION

4
5

■ Scan types

Scanning is an efficient way to quickly locate signals over a
wide frequency range. The transceiver has a priority scan set­ting and normal scan setting.

In addition, the “Auto scan” function is available for scanning.
This function can be activated simultaneously, depending on
the settings on the SET mode. (p. 17)

Set the tag channels (scanned channel) before scanning.
Clear those tag channels which are not needed or inconve­niently stop scanning, such as digital communications.

Choose priority or normal scan on the SET mode. (p. 17)

PRIORITY SCAN

Priority scan searches through all tag channels in sequence
while monitoring Channel 16. When a signal is detected on
Channel 16, scan pauses until the signal disappears; when
a signal is detected on a channel other than Channel 16,
scan becomes dualwatch until the signal disappears.

CH88

CH 01

CH 16

CH 02

CH 05 CH 04

CH 03

NORMAL SCAN

Normal scan, like priority scan, searches through all tag
channels in sequence. However, unlike priority scan, Chan­nel 16 is not checked unless Channel 16 is set as a tag
channel.

CH 01 CH 02

CH88

CH 05 CH 04

CH 03

13

5

SCAN OPERATION

■ Setting tag channels

For more efficient scanning, add desired channels as tag
channels or clear the tag for unwanted channels.
Non-tag channels will be skipped during scanning. Tag chan­nels can be assigned to each channel group (INT, USA*

1

,

ATIS*

2

) independently.

q Select the desired channel group (INT, USA*

1

, ATIS*2) by

pushing [DIAL] for 1 sec., if desired.

*1U.K. version only, *2German version only

w Select the desired channel to set as a tag channel.
e Push both [Y] and [Z] for 1 sec. to set the displayed chan-

nel as a tag channel.

•“ ” appears in the function display.

r To cancel the tag channel setting, push both [Y] and [Z]

for 1 sec.

•“ ” disappears.

✔ Clearing all tag channels in the selected channel group

While pushing and holding both [Y] and [Z], turn power ON
to clear all tag channels in the channel group.

■ Starting a scan

Set the priority scan function, scan resume timer and auto
scan function in advance, using the SET mode. (p. 17)

q Select the desired channel group (INT, USA*

1

, ATIS*2) by

pushing [DIAL] for 1 sec., if desired.

*1U.K. version only, *2German version only

w Push [SCAN•DUAL] to start priority or normal scan.

•“SCAN” blinks in the function display.

•“16” appears on the sub channel readout during priority scan.

• When a signal is received, scan pauses until the signal disap-

pears or resumes after pausing 5 sec. according to scan resume
timer setting. (Channel 16 is still monitored during priority scan.)

• Push [Y]/[Z] to check the scanning tag channels, change the
scanning direction or resume the scan manually.

e To stop the scan, push [SCAN•DUAL].

•“SCAN” disappears.

• Pushing [PTT], [16•C] or [DIAL] also stops the scan.

[Example]: Starting a normal scan.

Push

Scan starts.

Receiving a signal
and audio is emitted.

Push

to stop the scan

14

6

DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH

5
6

■ Description

Dualwatch monitors Channel 16 while you are receiving
another channel; tri-watch monitors Channel 16 and the call
channel while receiving another channel.

■ Operation

q Select the desired operating channel.
w Push [SCAN•

DUAL] for 1 sec. to start dualwatch or tri-watch

(depending on the SET mode setting).

•“DUAL” blinks during dualwatch; “TRI” blinks during tri-watch.

• Abeep tone sounds when a signal is received on Channel 16.

• Tri-watch becomes dualwatch when receiving a signal on the call

channel.

e To cancel dualwatch/tri-watch, push [SCAN•DUAL

] again.

DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH SIMULATION

• If a signal is received on Channel 16, dualwatch/tri-watch
pauses on Channel 16 until the signal disappears.

• If a signal is received on the call channel during tri-watch,
tri-watch becomes dualwatch until the signal disappears.

• To transmit on the selected channel during dualwatch/tri­watch, push and hold [PTT].

Dualwatch Tri-watch

Call channel

[Example]: Operating tri-watch on INT channel 07.

Push
for 1 sec.

Signal is received
on the call channel.

Signal is received
on Channel 16
takes priority.

Tri-watch resumes
after the signal
disappears.

Tri-watch starts.

15

LAND (PMR) CHANNEL OPERATION

7

■ LAND (PMR) channel group

A max. of 100 PMR channels (allocated 146.000 to 174.000
MHz) can be programmed into the LAND channel group for
simple communication with PMR transceivers in the VHF
band.

Moreover, any of the marine channels in the USA*

1

, INT and

ATIS*

2

channel groups can be programmed.
The default setting of the LAND channel group is the same
as that of the INT channel group. Ask your local Icom dealer
for the LAND channel group setting and PMR frequency pro­gramming details.

*1U.K. version only, *2German version only

q Push [DIAL] to select a regular channel.
w To change the channel group, push [DIAL] for 1 sec. sev-

eral times.

•“ ” appears when LAND channel group is selected.

e Push [Y]/[Z] to select a channel.

•“DUP” appears for duplex channels.

NOTE: The default settings (e.g. call channel program­ming) of the LAND channel group are same as the Interna­tional and U.S.A. channels. Refer to the appropriate pages
for details.

■ CTCSS and DTCS display

When DTCS or CTCSS is set in the selected channel, the
sub channel readout displays as below.

■ VOX function

The VOX function (voice operated transmission) starts trans­mission without pushing [PTT] when you speak into the mi­crophone; then automatically returns to receive when you
stop speaking (hands-free operation becomes possible).

NOTE: An optional headset and headset adapter is re-

quired for the VOX operation.

➥ Push and hold [SQL•

MONI], then push [Hi/Lo• ] to turn

the VOX function ON/OFF while connecting the optional
headset and headset adapter to [MIC/SP] connector.

• “VOX” appears on the LCD while the VOX function turns ON.

• The “VOX gain” and “VOX delay” can be set in the SET mode.

(p. 21)

Push for 1 sec.
several times.

Appears when DTCS is set.

Appears when CTCSS is set.

16

8

SET MODE

7
8

■ SET mode programming

SET mode is used to change the condition of 16 transceiver
functions: beep tone function, priority scan function, scan re­sume timer, auto scan function, dual/tri-watch function, moni­tor switch action, backlighting function, LCD contrast selec­tion, auto power save function, self check function, battery
voltage indicator, signal strength indicator, squelch sensitiv­ity, scrambler code, VOX gain and VOX delay.

D SET mode operation

q Turn power OFF.
w While pushing [SQL•

MONI], turn power ON to enter the

SET mode.

• “bp” (Beep tone function setting) appears.

e Push [SQL•MONI] or [SQL•MONI] and [Y]/[Z] to select the

desired item, if necessary.

r Push [Y]/[Z] to select the desired condition of the item.
t Push [16•

C] to exit the SET mode.

D SET MODE ITEMS The displays show the default settings, and the selected item is displayed in the dotted circle.

: Push

: Push and

Push and

Scrambler code

Signal strength
indicator

Battery voltage Self check Power save LCD contrast

Backlighting

Dual/Tri-watch

Monitor switch

Auto scan

Starting item

Beep tone Priority scan Scan resume timer VOX gain VOX delay

Squelch sensitivity

17

8

SET MODE

■ SET mode items

D Beep tone function “bP”

You can select silent operation by turning the beep tones
OFF, or you can have 2 types of confirmation beeps sound at
the push of a key. When “ON” is selected, a fixed beep (Pi)
sounds, and when “US” is selected, the preset beeps (e.g.
do, re, mi) sound.

• Beep tone synchronizes with the volume level.

• The beeps sound during call channel programming even if this func-

tion is turned OFF.

D Priority scan function “Pr”

The transceiver has 2 scan types—normal (OFF) and priority
(ON) scans. Normal scan searches all tag channels in the se­lected channel group. Priority scan searches all tag channels
in sequence while monitoring Channel 16.

D Scan resume timer “St”

The scan resume timer can be set as a pause (OFF) or timer
scan (ON). When OFF is selected, the scan pauses until a
received signal disappears. When ON is selected, the scan
pauses for 5 sec. after receiving a signal and then resumes
even if the signal has been received.

D Auto scan function “AS”

The Auto scan function starts the desired scan automatically
when no signal is received, and no operation is performed for
30 sec.

Push

Auto scan OFF (default) Auto scan ON

Scan resume timer

OFF (default)

Scan resume timer ON

Push

Push

Beep tone ON (default) Beep tone OFF

Push

Normal scan (default) Priority scan

18

8

SET MODE

8

D Dual/Tri-watch function “dt”

This item selects dual or tri-watch as desired. See p. 14 for
details.

D Monitor switch action “Sq”

The monitor switch action cuts off the squelch function tem­porarily. This switch action contains PUSH (Pu) or HOLD (Ho)
settings as shown below.

• PU (PUSH): After pushing [SQL•MONI] for 1 sec., the squelch
opens and emits audio. The squelch is held open while
continuously pushing and holding [SQL•MONI]. (de­fault)

• HO (HOLD): After pushing [SQL•MONI] for 1 sec., the squelch

opens and emits audio even [SQL•MONI] is released.
To close the squelch, push any switch.

D Backlighting function “bL”

This function is convenient for nighttime operation. The back­lighting brightness can be adjusted from OFF, 1 (dark)–3
(bright); 3 (default). Select 1–3 to turn this function ON.

•

The automatic backlighting turns the backlighting ON when any key
except for [PTT] is pushed.

•

The backlighting is automatically turned OFF after 5 sec. of inactivity.

D LCD contrast selection “LC”

The contrast of the LCD can be adjusted from 4 levels.

•

1 (bright)–4 (dark); 3 (default)

Push

default

bright

Push

Backlighting ON (default) Backlighting OFF

Push

Push setting (default) Hold setting

Push

Dualwatch function (default)

Tri-watch function

19

8

SET MODE

D Auto power save function “PS”

The auto power save function reduces current drain by deac­tivating the receiver circuit for preset intervals.

• ON : The power save function is turned ON. The power save func­tion will activate when no signal is received, and no operation
is performed for 5 sec.

• OFF: The power save function is turned OFF.

D Self check function “SC”

The self check function checks the transceiver conditions by
itself, and informs you in case a problem is found. Self check
automatically and quickly runs through its diagnostic steps
each time the radio is turned ON. Afterwards, the radio
switches to normal operation mode.

• Temperature : Outside of –35°C to +73°C (approx.)

• Connected battery voltage

When error messages as shown below are displayed, see
troubleshooting for advice. (p. 28)

Push

Power save ON (default) Power save OFF

Push

Self check OFF (default) Self check ON

Temperature error Battery voltage error

20

8

SET MODE

8

D Battery voltage indicator “bt”

This function controls display or non-display settings of the
connected battery pack’s voltage when the power is ON.

•

The voltage of the connected battery pack is displayed for 2 sec.
after power is turned ON.

D Signal strength indicator “Sl”

The signal strength indicator displays received signal strength
as “S-meter.” This function is convenient to check the signal
strength visually.

•

The strength is displayed at 4 steps.

• The antenna mark and 3 bars appear when receiving strong signals.

• The antenna mark only appears when receiving no signal.

D Squelch sensitivity function “SS”

When this function is turned ON, blocking against noise is im­proved. Therefore the squelch is not easily affected by noise.

D Scrambler code “cd”

There are 32 codes (1 to 32) available for programming. In
order to understand each other, all transceivers in your group
must share the same scrambler code.

Push

Battery voltage

indication OFF (default)

Battery voltage

indication ON

Push

Signal strength indication OFF

(default)

Signal strength indication ON

Push

Squelch sensitivity OFF

(default)

Squelch sensitivity ON

Push

Scrambler code 1 (default) Scrambler code 32

21

8

SET MODE

D VOX gain “ga”

Adjusts the VOX gain (from 1 to 6) to level when speaking
with the optional headset.

• Setting the VOX gain to 1 increases the sensitivity.

• Setting the VOX gain to 6 reduces the sensitivity.

D VOX delay “dL”

Sets the VOX delay timer (0.5 to 3.0 sec. in 0.5 sec. steps)
that keeps on transmitting after you stop speaking.

• Setting the VOX delay to 0.5 (0.5 sec.) is a short VOX delay.

• Setting the VOX delay to 3.0 (3.0 sec.) is a long VOX delay.

SET MODE LIST

*default setting

Push

VOX gain 3 (default) VOX gain 6

Push

VOX delay 1.0 (default) VOX delay 3.0

Function Indication Switch

Beep tone function “bP” OFF/ON*/US

Priority scan function “Pr” OFF*/ON

Scan resume timer “St” OFF*/ON

Auto scan function “AS” OFF*/ON

Dual/Tri-watch function “dt” Dual*/Tri

Monitor switch action “Sq” Push*/Hold
Backlighting function “bL” OFF/1/2/3*

LCD contrast selection “LC” 1/2/3*/4

Auto power save function “PS” OFF/ON*

Self check function “SC” OFF*/ON
Battery voltage indicator “bt” OFF*/ON
Signal strength indicator “SI” OFF*/ON

Squelch sensitivity “SS” OFF*/ON

Scrambler code “cd” 1*/2/· · ·/31/32

VOX gain “ga” 1/2/3*/4/5/6

VOX delay “dL”

0.5/1.0*/1.5/2.0/2.5/3.0

22

9

BATTERY CHARGING

8
9

■ Battery charging

Prior to using the transceiver for the first time, the battery
pack must be fully charged for optimum life and operation.

CAUTION: To avoid damage to the transceiver, turn the
power OFF while charging.

• Recommended temperature range for charging:
+10°C to +40°C

• Use the specified chargers (BC-158, BC-119N and
BC-121N). NEVER use another manufacture’s charger.

• Use the supplied AC adapter for the BC-158. NEVER use
another manufacture’s adapters.

■ Battery cautions

CAUTION! NEVER insert battery pack/transceiver

(with the battery pack attached) with wet or soiled into the
charger. This may result in corrosion of the charger terminals
or damage to the charger. The charger is not waterproof and
water can easily get into it.

NEVER incinerate used battery packs. Internal battery gas

may cause an explosion.

NEVER immerse battery pack in water. If the battery pack

becomes wet, be sure to wipe it dry immediately (particularly
the battery terminals BEFORE attaching it to the transceiver).

NEVER short terminals of the battery pack. Also, current

may flow into nearby metal objects, such as a necklace, etc.
Those may cause burn, electric shock or fire. Therefore, be
careful when carrying in a pocket, backpack or handbag, and
when placing the radio near metal objects.

If your battery pack seems to have no capacity even after
being charged, completely discharge it by leaving the power
ON overnight. Then, fully charge the battery pack again. If the
battery still do not retain a charge (or very little), new battery
pack must be replaced.

Turn the transceiver OFF when charging an attached bat­tery pack. Otherwise, the battery pack may not become full­charging or may not charge properly.

23

9

BATTERY CHARGING

ï Charging connections

q Attach the BC-158 to a flat surface, such as a desk or

cabin, etc., if desired.

w Connect the AC adapter as shown below.
e Insert the battery pack with/without the transceiver into the

charger.

• The charge indicator lights green.

r Charge the battery pack approx. 12 hours, depending on

the remaining power condition.

DO NOT charge BP-225 more than 18 hours. Other­wise, BP-225 will be damaged. BP-225 must be
charged for 12–18 hours only.

■ Optional battery case

When using a battery case attached to the transceiver, install
6 × AA(LR6) size Alkaline batteries as illustrated below.

q Remove the battery case from the transceiver.
w Install 6 × AA(LR6) size Alkaline batteries.

• Be sure to observe the correct polarity.

CAUTION:

• When installing batteries, make sure they are all the
same brand, type and capacity. Also, do not mix new and
old batteries together.

• Keep battery contacts clean. It’s a good idea to clean bat­tery terminals once a week.

Turn power OFF

Charge indicator

Lights green when the
BP-225 (with/without
IC-M90E) is inserted.

AC adapter

BP-225

IC-M90E

C
I

M

S
/

P

Supplied
screws

BC-158

24

9

BATTERY CHARGING

9

■ Optional battery chargers

ï AD-109 installation

q Connect the 10-pins connector of the charger to the

AD-109 desktop charger adapter’s plug.

NOTE: The 3-pins connector is not used.

w Install the adapter into the charger in the direction of the

arrow, then screw supplied 2 screws to fix the charger
adapter with the charger.

NOTE: BE CAREFUL not to catch the unused 3-pins

plug between the charger and the charger
adapter.

Desktop charger adapter

10-pins connector

Not used
(3-pins connector)

Plug

Supplied screws

25

9

BATTERY CHARGING

ï Rapid charging with the BC-119N+AD-109

The optional BC-119N provides rapid charging of battery
packs. The following are additionally required.

• AD-109 charger adapter

• An AC adapter (BC-145E)* or the DC power cable (OPC-

515L/CP-17L).

*Not supplied with some version.

ï Rapid charging with the BC-121N+AD-109

The optional BC-121N allows up to 6 battery packs to be
charged simultaneously. The following are additionally re­quired.

• Six AD-109 charger adapters

• An AC adapter (BC-124) or the DC power cable (OPC-656)

M

I

C
/

S

P

IC-M90E

BP-225

AC adapter

(Purchase
separately)

AD-109 charger adapters
are installed in each slot.

DC power cable (OPC-656)
(Connect with the DC power supply;

13.8 V/at least 7 A)

Turn power OFF

AD-109 charger
adapter is installed
in BC-119N.

AC adapter
(Not supplied with

some versions.)

Optional OPC-515L (for 13.8 V power
source) or CP-17L (for 12 V cigarette
lighter socket) can be used instead of
the AC adapter.

IC-M90E

BP-225

M

I

C

/

S

P

Turn power OFF

26

10

OPTIONAL SWIVEL BELT CLIP

9
10

■ MB-86 contents

Qty.
Belt clip ………………………………………………………… 1
Base clip ……………………………………………………… 1
Supplied screws ……………………………………………… 2

■ Attachment

q Screw the base clip to the back of the transceiver using

the two screws (supplied), as shown below.

w Clip the belt clip over your belt and insert the transceiver.

e Once the transceiver is locked in place, it swivels as illus-

trated below.

■ Detachment

➥ Turn the transceiver upside down in the direction of the

arrow and pull out from the belt clip.

Supplied screws

P
T
T

SQL

M

O

N

I

R CAUTION!

HOLD THE TRANSCEIVER TIGHTLY, WHEN HANGING
OR DETACHING THE TRANSCEIVER FROM THE BELT
CLIP.

Otherwise the transceiver may not be attached to the belt
clip or swivelled properly if the transceiver is accidentally
dropped and the base clip is scratched or damaged.

27

OPTIONAL SPEAKER-MICROPHONE

11

■ HM-125 descriptions

NEVER immerse the connector in water without connecting

with the transceiver. If the connector becomes wet, be sure
to dry BEFORE attaching it to the transceiver.

NOTE: The microphone is located at the top of the
speaker-microphone, as shown in the diagram above. To
maximize the readability of your transmitted signal (voice),
hold the microphone approx. 2.5 cm from your mouth, and
speak in a normal voice level.

■ Attachment

Insert the speaker-mic connector onto the [MIC/SP] connec­tor and carefully screw it tight, as shown in the diagram
below. Be careful not to cross thread the connection.

IMPORTANT: KEEP the transceiver’s [MIC/SP] connector
cap attached when the speaker-microphone is not in use.
Water will not get into the transceiver even if the cover is
not attached, however, the terminals (pins) will become
rusty, or the transceiver will function abnormally if the con­nector has become wet.

CAUTION: Attach the speaker-microphone’s
connector securely to prevent accidental
dropping, or water intrusion in the connector.

Detaching:

Pull up the cap
in the direction
of the arrow to
detach it.

Attaching:

Attach the cap
in the direction
of the arrow
completely.

Alligator type clip

To attach the speaker-mic.
to your shirt or collar, etc.

PTT switch

Transmits during push.
Receives during release.

Microphone

Speaker

Set the triangle
mark to the front
side.

28

12

TROUBLESHOOTING

11
12

The transceiver does
not turn ON.

No sound from the
speaker.

Transmitting is impos­sible, or high power
can not be selected.

The displayed channel
cannot be changed.

Scan does not start.
No beeps.

Self check error.
(Temperature)

Self check error.
(Battery voltage)

Transmitting continu­ously while not speak­ing when using VOX
function.

• The battery is exhausted.

• Bad connection to the battery pack.

• Squelch level is too deep.

• Volume level is too low.

• Speaker has been exposed to water.

• Water has entered to [MIC/SP] connector.

• Lock function is activated.

• The battery is exhausted.

• The battery is over charged.

• Lock function is activated.

•“TAG” channels are not programmed.

• Beep tones are turned OFF.

• The temperature is outside of –35°C to
+73°C (approx)

• The connected battery pack’s voltage is

more than 11 V.

• Ambient noise is too loud.

• Recharge the battery pack.

• Check the connection to the transceiver.

• Set squelch to the threshold point.

• Rotate [VOL] to set a suitable level.

• Drain water from the speaker.

• Dry [MIC/SP] connector.

• Push [Hi/Lo• ] for 1 sec. to cancel the

function.

• Recharge the battery pack.

• Verify the battery voltage is correct.

• Push [Hi/Lo• ] for 1 sec. to cancel the

function.

• Set the desired channels as “TAG” channels.

• Set the beep tones to ON (Fix Beep/User

Beep) in the SET mode.

• Leave the transceiver at room temperature
for a while. Turn the power ON to check if the
internal temperature has returned to normal.

• Verify the battery voltage is correct.

• Remove the headset cable.

• Set the VOX gain to dulling.

pgs. 23,

25

p. 3

p. 11

p. 9

—
—

p. 10

pgs. 23,

25

—

p. 10

p. 13
p. 17

—

—

–

p. 21

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION REF.

29

VHF MARINE CHANNEL LIST

13

International channels

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

Transmit Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Receive
01 156.050 160.650 11 156.550 156.550 21 157.050 161.650 62 156.125 160.725 72 156.625 156.625 82 157.125 161.725
02 156.100 160.700 12 156.600 156.600 22 157.100 161.700 63 156.175 160.775 73 156.675 156.675 83 157.175 161.775
03 156.150 160.750 13 156.650 156.650 23 157.150 161.750 64 156.225 160.825 74 156.725 156.725 84 157.225

Rx only

Rx only

161.825
04 156.200 160.800 14 156.700 156.700 24 157.200 161.800 65 156.275 160.875 75 156.775 156.775 85 157.275 161.875
05 156.250 160.850 15 156.750 156.750 25 157.250 161.850 66 156.325 160.925 76 156.825 156.825 86 157.325 161.925
06 156.300 156.300 16 156.800 156.800 26 157.300 161.900 67 156.375 156.375 77 156.875 156.875 87 157.375 157.375
07 156.350 160.950 17 156.850 156.850 27 157.350 161.950 68 156.425 156.425 78 156.925 161.525 88 157.425 157.425
08 156.400 156.400 18 156.900 161.500 28 157.400 162.000 69 156.475 156.475 79 156.975 161.575
09 156.450 156.450 19 156.950 161.550 60 156.025 160.625 70 156.525 80 157.025 161.625
10 156.500 156.500 20 157.000 161.600 61 156.075 160.675 71 156.575 156.575 81 157.075 161.675

USA channels

(for U.K. version only)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

CH

Frequency (MHz)

Transmit Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Receive Transmit Receive

01A 156.050 156.050 12

156.600 156.600 22A 157.100 157.100 64A 156.225 156.225 77 156.875 156.875 86 157.325 161.925

-- - - - - - - 13 156.650 156.650 23A 157.150 157.150 65A

156.275 156.275 78A 156.925 156.925 86A 157.325 157.325

03A 156.150 156.150 14 156.700 156.700 24 157.200 161.800 66A 156.325 156.325

79A 156.975 156.975 87 157.375 161.975

-- - - - - - - 15 156.750 156.750 25 157.250 161.850 67 156.375 156.375 80A 157.025 157.025 87A 157.375 157.375

05A 156.250 156.250 16 156.800 156.800 26 157.300 161.900 68 156.425 156.425 81A 157.075 157.075 88 157.425 162.025

06 156.300 156.300 17 156.850 156.850 27 157.350 161.950 69 156.475 156.475 82A 157.125 157.125 88A 157.425 157.425

P4* 161.425 161.425

07A 156.350 156.350 18A 156.900 156.900 28 157.400 162.000 70 156.525 83A 157.175 157.175

08 156.400

156.400 19A 156.950 156.950 37A* 157.850 157.850 71 156.575 156.575 84 157.225 161.825

09 156.450 156.450 20 157.000 161.600 61A 156.075

156.075 72 156.625 156.625 84A 157.225 157.225

10 156.500 156.500 20A 157.000 157.000 -- - - - - - -

73 156.675 156.675 85 157.275 161.875

11 156.550 156.550 21A 157.050 157.050 63A 156.175 156.175 74

156.725 156.725 85A 157.275 157.275

*UK marine channels: M1=37A (157.850 MHz), M2=P4 (161.425 MHz) for U.K. version only.

30

14

SPECIFICATIONS

13
14

GENERAL

• Frequency coverage
[Marine] TX : 156.000–161.450 MHz

RX : 156.000–163.425 MHz

[PMR] TX/RX : 146.000–174.000 MHz

• Mode
[Marine] : 16K0G3E (Wide)
[PMR] : 16K0F3E (Wide)*/8K50F3E (Narrow)

*Germany version is

14K0F3E.

• Number of programmable ch. : 100 channels

• Power supply requirement : Battery packs (BP-223, BP-224 or

BP-225 only)

• Current drain (approx.) : TX High (5 W) 1.6 A
(at 7.2 V DC) TX Mid. (3 W) 1.2 A

TX Low (1 W) 0.7 A
TX Low (0.5 W)

0.6 A

RX Max audio 200 mA

• Frequency stability : ±1.5 kHz (–25

°C to +55°C)

• Operating temperature range

[Marine] : –15°C to +55°C
[PMR] :

–25°C to +55°C

• Antenna impedance : 50 Ω

• Dimensions : 65(W) × 145(H) × 44(D) mm

(Projections not included)

• Weight (with BP-225) : Approx. 410 g

TRANSMITTER

• Output power (at 7.2 V DC) :

5 W (Hi), 3 W (Middle) and 1 W (Low)
1 W (Hi), 0.5 W (Low) for Germany
version marine operation.

• Modulation system : Variable reactance frequency

modulation

• Microphone impedance : 2 kΩ

• Max. frequency deviation

[Marine] : ±5 kHz (Wide)
[PMR] : ±5 kHz (Wide)*/ ±2.5 kHz (Narrow)

*Germany ver. is

±4 kHz.

• Adjacent channel power
[Marine] : 70 dB
[PMR] : 70 dB (Wide), 60 dB (Narrow)

• Spurious emissions :

0.25 µW (less than 2 GHz)

1.0 µW (more than 2 GHz)

• Audio harmonics distortion : 10 % at 60 % deviation

• Residual modulation

[Marine] : 40 dB
[PMR] : 40 dB (Wide), 34 dB (Narrow)

• Limiting charact of modulation : 60–100% of max. deviation

RECEIVER

• Receive system : Double-conversion

superheterodyne

• Intermediate frequency : 1st: 31.05 MHz, 2nd 450 kHz

• Sensitivity (at 20 dB SINAD)

[Marine] : –2 dBµ EMF (typical)
[PMR] : –4 dBµ EMF (typical)

• Squelch sensitivity : –6 dBµ EMF (typical)

(at threshold)

• Intermodulation rejection ratio
[Marine] : 68 dB
[PMR] : 65 dB

• Spurious response rejection ratio : 70 dB

• Adjacent channel selectivity

[Marine] : 70 dB
[PMR] : 70 dB (Wide), 60 dB (Narrow)

• Audio output power :
[Marine] 0.2 W at 10% distortion with an

8 Ω load

[PMR] 0.35 W at 10% distortion with an 8 Ω

load

• Hum and noise
[Marine] : 40 dB
[PMR] : 40 dB (Wide), 34 dB (Narrow)

All stated specifications are subject to change without notice or
obligation.

31

OPTIONS

15

D BATTERY CASE AND PACK

• BP-225 Ni-Cd

BATTERY PACK

7.2 V/1100 mAh Ni-Cd battery pack.

• BP-224 Ni-Cd

BATTERY PACK

7.2 V/750 mAh Ni-Cd battery pack.

• BP-223

BATTERY CASE

Battery case for 6 × AA(LR6) Alkaline cells.

D CHARGERS

• BC-119N

DESKTOP CHARGER

+ AD-109

CHARGER ADAPTER

+ BC-145E

AC ADAPTER

For rapid charging of battery packs. An AC adapter is supplied with
the charger depending on versions. Charging time: approx. 2.2 to

2.8 hours (BP-225).

• BC-121N

MULTI-CHARGER

+ AD-109

CHARGER ADAPTER

(6 pcs.)

+ BC-124

AC ADAPTER

For rapid charging of up to 6 battery packs (six AD-109’s are re­quired) simultaneously. An AC adapter should be purchased sepa­rately. Charging time: approx. 2.2 to 2.8 hours (BP-225).

• BC-158

DESKTOP CHARGER

+ BC-147E

AC ADAPTER

Used for regular charging of battery pack. The same as supplied
with the transceiver. Charging time: approx. 12 hours (BP-225).

D BELT CLIPS

• MB-103

BELT CLIP

The same as supplied with the transceiver.

• MB-86

SWIVEL BELT CLIP

Belt clip for swivel type.

• MB-96F/96N

BELT HANGER

➥MB-96F: Attaches with the supplied belt clip (Not swivel type).
➥MB-96N: Belt hanger for swivel type.

D DC CABLES

• CP-17L

CIGARETTE LIGHTER CABLE

Charges the battery pack through a 12 V cigarette lighter socket.
(For BC-119N)

• OPC-515L/OPC-656

DC POWER CABLES

Charges the battery pack using 13.8 V power source instead of the
AC adapter.
OPC-515L: For BC-119N
OPC-656 : For BC-121N

D OTHER OPTIONS

• HM-125

SPEAKER-MICROPHONE

Full sized waterproof (IPX7; 1m/30 min.) speaker-microphone. In­cludes an alligator clip to attach the speaker mic to your shirt, collar,
etc.

• HS-94/HS-95/HS-97

HEADSET

+ OPC-1392

HEADSET ADAPTER

HS-94: Ear-piece type
HS-95: Neck-arm type
HS-97: Throat microphone

Different versions of this radio use different options. Ask
your authorized dealer for details.

Channel 16

(p. 7)

n

CHANNEL SELECTION

(pgs. 7, 8, 10)

OPERATION GUIDE

iM90E

n

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

DISTRESS CALL PROCEDURE

m

USING CHANNEL 16

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

ÒMAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY.Ó

ÒTHIS IS (name of vessel)Ó

Your call sign or other indi-

cation of the vessel.

ÒLOCATEDAT (your position)Ó

The nature of the distress

and assistance required.

Any other information which

might facilitate the rescue.

Call channel

(p. 7)

Call channel programming

(p. 10)

Push [16

C

] for 1 sec. to select the

call channel.

Push [16

C

] for 3 sec. (until long

beep changes to 2 short beeps)

Push [

Y

]/[

Z

] to select the desired

channel.

Push [16

C

] to program the dis-

played channel as the call channel.

q

w

e

r

International/USA/ATIS and LAND

channels

(p. 8)

Push

Push

Push

for 1 sec.

for 1 sec.

32

16

QUICK REFERENCE

Important operating instructions are summed up on this and the following
page.
By cutting along the line and folding on the dotted line, it will become a card
sized operating guide which can easily be carried in a card case or wallet.

q Cut w Fold

e Complete

<CUT HERE>

n

TAG CHANNELS (p. 13)

q

w

Push [

Y

]/[

Z

] to select the desired

channel.

Push [

Y

]/[

Z

] for 1 sec. to change

the TAG setting ON and OFF.

n

SET MODE (pgs. 16 21)

q

w

e

r

While pushing

[SQL

MONI

],

turn power ON.

Push [SQL

MONI

]

again to select an

item.

Push [

Y

]/[

Z

]

to select the desired

condition.

Push [16

C

] to return to regular op-

erating mode.

Refer to pgs. 16 21 for set

mode item.

n

DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH (p. 14)

Select dual or tri-watch in the SET

mode (p. 18).

Push [

Y

]/[

Z

] to select the desired

channel.

Push [SCAN

DUAL

] for 1 sec. to

start dualwatch or tri-watch (de-

pending on SET mode).

To cancel dualwatch/tri-watch,

push [SCAN

DUAL

] again.

q

w

e

r

n

LOCK FUNCTION (p. 10)

Push [Hi/Lo ]

for 1 sec. to turn

the lock function

ON and OFF.

n

SQUELCH LEVEL (p. 11)

Push [SQL

MONI

], then adjust the

squelch level with [

Y

]/[

Z

].

Select monitor switch action in

SET mode (p. 18).

Push [SQL

MONI

] for 1sec. to ac-

tive the monitor function.

q

w

n

MONITOR FUNCTION (p. 10)

n

SCAN (pgs. 12, 13)

Push [SCAN

DUAL

] to start/stop

scanning.

33

34

17

ABOUT DOC

16
17

CE Versions of the IC-M90E which display the
“CE” symbol on the serial number seal, comply
with the essential requirements of the European
Radio and T elecommunication Terminal Directive
1999/5/EC.

This warning symbol indicates that this equip­ment operates in non-harmonised frequency
bands and/or may be subject to licensing condi­tions in the country of use. Be sure to check that
you have the correct version of this radio or the
correct programming of this radio, to comply with
national licensing requirement.

DECLARATION

OF CONFORMITY

We Icom Inc. Japan

1-1-32, Kamiminami, Hirano-ku
Osaka 547-0003, Japan

Kind of equipment:

VHF MARINE TRANSCEIVER

This compliances is based on conformity with the following harmonised
standards, specifications or documents:
i)

EN 301 178-2 V1.1.1 (2000-8)
ii) EN 60945 1997
iii) EN 60950 August 1992, A11 1997
iv) EN 300 698-2 V1.1.1 (2000-8)
v) EN 301 489-1 V1.3.1 (2001-9)
vi) EN 301 489-5 (2000-8)
vii) EN 300 086-2 (2001-3)

Type-designation: iM90E

Signature

H. Ikegami
General Manager

Authorized representative name

Place and date of issue

Version (where applicable):

Declare on our sole responsability that this equipment complies the
essential requirements of the Radio and Telecommunications Terminal
Equipment Directive, 1999/5/EC, and that any applicable Essential Test
Suite measurements have been performed.

PMR: 146 174 MHz 12.5 kHz/ 20 kHz/ 25 kHz

0560

1-1-32 Kamiminami, Hirano-ku, Osaka 547-0003, Japan

A-6389H-1EU
Printed in Japan

© 2004 Icom Inc.

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