ICOM IC-91A Dual Band Handheld Transceiver
Reviewed by Dan Henderson, N1ND ARRL Regulatory Information Specialist The IC-91 comes in two flavors. The model reviewed is the IC-91A, a traditional analog dual band handheld FM transceiver with 5 W of power on transmit, a wideband receiver and a host of other features. ICOM also offers the IC-91AD, which incorporates D-STAR digital voice and data features. An IC-91A can be upgraded to a D-STAR capable AD version with the optional UT-121 digital unit. See the June 2005 Product Review column for more information on the D-STAR system.3 hour for the D-STAR version. Those figures are based on 10% high power transmit, 10% receive and 80% standby and will vary with actual operating habits.

Key Measurements

0.14 0.12 0.1

SINAD 0.25

Receiver Sensitivity (12 dB SINAD, V)

65@10 MHz

The N1ND Reality Test
As noted in previous reviews, my very first reality test for a new radio is how quickly can I get on the air with it and have some fun? Options and features are nice, but the bottom line for any radio is the ease with which you can use it to communicate. The IC-91A has the usual assortment of function keys that allow you to program and operate the radio. Theres a dual function knob on top of the unit and PTT and squelch buttons on the left side. Even for basic operation you will want to spend some time familiarizing yourself with the most commonly used buttons and combinations. After spending a couple of minutes reviewing the manual, I powered up the radio and set out to access a local repeater. First, I selected 144 MHz as my active VFO by pushing the MAIN button located directly beneath the PWR button until the main display showed the desired band. Then I used the larger dial on top of the radio, turning it until the desired frequency was displayed. A quick adjustment of the VOL control (a real knob that turns instead of up and down push buttons) and I was ready to give the IC-91A what my Elmer jokingly referred to as the smoke test. I keyed the mike, gave my call sign and waited for a reply. As you would hope, I got a quick response and enjoyed a brief chat with a friend who gave the audio good marks. After the initial operation on 2 meters, I tried 70 cm with similar results. I was pleased with the received audio of the radio. The quality of the audio was solid very acceptable for a small speaker built into a handheld. I was struck by how comfortable the IC-91A felt to operate. Some of the handhelds on the market have an almost toodelicate feel, almost like razor-thin cell phones. Others really seem bulky in my hand, similar to the handhelds of decades ago. This radio fit nicely into my hand
3W. Silver, D-STAR Digital Voice and Data An

I3 Rx 60

73@10 MHz 90
Receiver 3rd-Order Dynamic Range (dB)

56@20 kHz

I3 Rx 40

55@20 kHz 70

Charge it Up
Like most modern handhelds, the IC91A uses a compact, high capacity lithiumion battery pack. A full charge for the 7.4 V, 1300 mAh battery pack takes about 6 hours with the included BC-167A/D wall charger. If you want something quicker, try the optional BC-139 drop-in charger for a full charge in about 2.5 hours. The battery also charges whenever the radio is connected to a 10 to 16 V dc source, and ICOM offers several optional cigarette lighter adapters and dc power supply cables. The IC-91A operates at 5 W on high power and 0.5 W on low power and incorporates several features to conserve battery life. Radio specs call for approximately 5 hours of battery life during normal analog operation on VHF and 4.5 hours on UHF. Subtract about half an

ChRej 50

Adjacent Channel Rejection (dB)

IF Rejection (dB)

101 110

Img 60

Image Rejection (dB)

Snd 100 245

Audio Output (mW)

T-R 250

Tx-Rx Turnaround Time (ms)

Off Scale

70 cm 2M

Bottom Line

The ICOM IC-91A handheld transceiver packs good performance, ease of operation, wide receive coverage and optional digital voice in a convenient package. December 2006 59
Overview, Product Review, QST, Jun 2005, pp 67-69. This column also includes testing of the UT-118 digital voice module with an ICOM 2 meter handheld. QST Product Reviews are available on the Web at www.arrl.org/members-only/prodrev/.
without an awkward feeling. With the belt clip attached, its light weight didnt leave me needing to hitch up my pants frequently. The IC-91A passed the initial test with flying colors and it was time to move on to examining the more detailed operations of the radio.
Table 2 ICOM IC-91A, serial number 2501359 Manufacturers Specifications
Frequency coverage: Receive, 0.5-999 MHz (cell blocked), transmit, 144-148, 420-450 MHz. Modes: FM, AM (receive only), WFM (receive only), DV (with optional module). Power requirements: 10-16 V dc; receive, 0.34 A; transmit, 2.2 A (max, high power).

Measured in the ARRL Lab

Receive and transmit, as specified. As specified. Receive (max vol, no signal), 0.23 A, 0.34 A when charging the battery; transmit, 2.0 A (13.8 V dc and batt).

Digging Deeper

Most modern handhelds in a particular category offer nearly identical bells and whistles. That said, the ease of selecting and using the particular features important to the user becomes a key component in choosing the right radio. One thing I look for is the ease with which I can navigate not only the radio, but also the instruction manual. ICOM does an excellent job of presenting the information in its 124 page manual, along with clear illustrations and good step-by-step instructions. The only addition I would make is an index. A PDF version of the manual is available for free download from www.icomamerica. com and is worth a look to understand all that this radio offers. ICOM has included a useful and intuitive on-screen programming system for accessing the special features in the IC-91A. It takes more effort to explain the process than it does to actually select and set up the features from the MENU screen. DTMF and tone squelch (CTCSS/ DTCS), once considered an option in VHF/ UHF FM transceivers, are now the norm. More and more repeaters require a tone for access to reduce interference and to allow frequency coordinators to accommodate more repeaters in an already tightly packed spectrum. The IC-91A makes programming these subaudible tones easy using the onscreen MENU function. You neednt worry about having enough channels for memory storage, as you have some 1300 available. Memory channels can be sorted into banks for ease of use. In each memory channel, you can store everything needed to use a specific repeater frequency, mode, duplex direction and offset, any required subaudible tones for encoding or squelch, assignment to a specific memory bank for scanning and even a memory name. Another fairly standard feature is the

Receiver

AM sensitivity: 10 dB S/N, 0.5-5 MHz, 1.3 V, 5-30 MHz, 0.56 V, 118-137 MHz, 0.5 V, 222-247 MHz, 0.79 V, 247-330 MHz, 1.0 V. FM sensitivity: 12 dB SINAD, 1.6-30 MHz, 0.4 V, 30-118 MHz, 0.25 V, 118-174 MHz, 0.18 V, 174-350, 470-600 MHz, 0.32 V, 350-470 MHz, 0.22 V, 600-999 MHz, 0.56 V; WFM, 76-108 MHz, 1 V, 175-222 MHz, 1.8 V; 470-770 MHz, 2.5 V. FM two-tone, third-order IMD dynamic range: Not specified. FM two-tone, second-order IMD dynamic range: Not specified. FM adjacent-channel rejection: Not specified. Spurious response: VHF, 60 dB; UHF, 50 dB. Squelch sensitivity: Not specified. Audio output: 200 mW at 10% THD into 8 W.

Receiver Dynamic Testing

10 dB S+N/N, 1-kHz tone, 30% mod: 1 MHz, 0.42 V; 3.9 MHz, 0.41 V; 14 MHz, 0.43 V; 53 MHz, 0.45 V; 120 MHz: 0.47 V; 146 MHz, 0.33 V; 440 MHz, 0.43 V. For 12 dB SINAD, 29 MHz, 0.16 V; 52 MHz, 0.18 V; 146 MHz, 0.12 V; 222 MHz, 0.19 V; 440 MHz, 0.14 V; 902 MHz, 0.23 V; WFM, 100 MHz, 0.85 V. 20 kHz offset: 29 MHz, 54 dB; 52 MHz, 57 dB*; 146 and 222 MHz, 55 dB; 440 MHz, 56 dB; 902 MHz, 52 dB*. 10 MHz offset: 146 MHz, 73 dB; 440 MHz, 65 dB. 146 MHz, 67 dB. 20 kHz offset: 29 MHz, 60 dB; 52 MHz, 57 dB; 146 MHz, 59 dB; 222 MHz, 61 dB; 440 MHz, 59 dB; 902 MHz, 52 dB. IF rejection, 52 MHz, 34 dB; 146 MHz, 101 dB; 440 MHz, 119 dB; 902 MHz, 100 dB. Image rejection, 52 MHz, 86 dB; 146 MHz, 95 dB; 440 MHz, 94 dB; 902 MHz, 6 dB. At threshold, VHF, 0.35 V; UHF, 0.4 V. 245 mW at 10% THD into 8 W.

Transmitter

Power output: VHF and UHF, 5.0 W high; 0.5 W low. Spurious signal and harmonic suppression: 60 dB. Transmit-receive turnaround time (PTT release to 50% of full audio output): Not specified. Receive-transmit turnaround time (tx delay): Not specified.
Transmitter Dynamic Testing
With battery pack, VHF, 5.1 / 0.6 W; UHF, 4.5 / 0.5 W; with 13.8 V dc: VHF, 5.0 / 0.5 W; UHF, 5.2 / 0.4 W. VHF, 67 dB; UHF, 72 dB. Meets FCC requirements. Squelch on, S9 signal, VHF and UHF, 194 ms. VHF, 123 ms; UHF, 92 ms.
Size (height, width, depth): 4.1 2.3 1.3 inches; weight, 10.6 ounces. *Measurement was noise limited. Typical retail price: IC-91A, $369; IC-91AD, $525, UT-121, UT-121, $199.

60 December 2006

ability to transfer (clone) settings and memories from one radio to another. With the IC-91A this is easily accomplished using the optional OPC-474 cloning cable. ICOMs optional RS-91 Windows software handles memory management and remote transceiver operation. It also provides for low-speed data communication if your radio includes the digital module.
the DUAL WATCH function enabled, you can monitor two frequencies simultaneously (they can be on different bands). The IC-91A makes it simple to access the 10 preprogrammed NOAA weather channels. Its also easy to set up the radio to monitor the weather channel in the background and notify you when NOAA issues a weather alert.

Digital Capable

While the review radio did not include the optional UT-121 digital module, I did have an opportunity see and briefly use an IC-91AD with digital capability. The module allows the radio to use digital voice and data communication through D-STAR system repeaters being marketed by ICOM. Although D-STAR repeaters are growing in popularity in many parts of the country, Im not aware of any 2 meter or 70 cm D-STAR repeater systems in central Connecticut and didnt have an opportunity to fully explore the digital additions to the radio. In addition to digital voice, the UT-121
An Amateur Band Receiver Plus.
The IC-91A receiver has two bands. With the A band you can transmit on the 2 meter and 70 cm amateur bands. Receive range is really wide. You can listen to FM on the ham bands through 902 MHz, AM shortwave broadcasts, AM and FM broadcast bands, VHF aircraft band and NOAA weather channels, plus the usual VHF/UHF services. As shown in Table 2, receiver sensitivity is good across most of the range. The B band is more for ham radio, with transmit coverage on 2 meters and 70 cm and receive coverage from 118 to 174 and 350 to 470 MHz. With
adds the capability to interface with a GPS receiver so position data can be transmitted and received. It adds a digital recorder that can capture 30 seconds of receive audio. With the digital recorder, you can preprogram automatic responses for your radio, such as your call sign and information messages. You can also use the UT-121 module to do the equivalent of low-speed text messaging using the D-STAR protocols.

Thumbs Up

I found the ICOM IC-91A to be an exceptional dual band Amateur Radio handheld. It is relatively intuitive to program and use. It will meet most needs of the newcomer or experienced amateur looking for reliable local communications on 2 meters and 70 cm, and the wide receiver coverage allows you to listen to a variety of bands and services. Manufacturer: ICOM America, 2380 116th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004, tel 425-454-8155; www.icomamerica.com.

December 2006 61

D Tuning step selection

q Push [VFO] to select VFO mode, if necessary. w Push [BAND] to select the desired frequency band.
e Push and hold [TS](8) for 1 sec. to enter tuning step set mode. r Rotate [DIAL] to select the desired tuning step. t Push [TS](8) (or [VFO]) to return to VFO mode.
[DIAL] changes the frequency according to the selected tuning step.

P SKIP

SET-TS:5.0kHz

5 kHz tuning step

After pushing and holding [MHz](VFO) for 1 sec., [DIAL] changes the frequency in 1 MHz/10 MHz steps.
FREQUENCY AND CHANNEL SETTING D Using the keypad
The frequency can be directly set via numeric keys.
If a frequency outside the frequency range is entered, the previously displayed frequency is automatically recalled after editing last digit.

Entering 146.520 MHz

+DUP DTCS FM PRIO WX

Entering 79.3 MHz

300 25
Changing 100 kHz and below. Editting 146.520 MHz to 146.240 MHz
qPush [VFO] to select VFO mode, if necessary. w Enter the desired frequency via the keypad.

240 25

Editting to 684 kHz
Depending on the tuning step setting, the 1 kHz digit may not acceptable as input. In this case, enter 0 as 1 kHz digit, then rotate [DIAL] to set the desired frequency.

BASIC OPERATION

I Setting audio volume
Rotate [VOL] to adjust the audio level.
If squelch is closed, push and hold [SQL] to verify the audio level. The display shows the volume level while setting.

I Receiving

Make sure charged battery pack (BP-217) or brand new alkaline batteries (BP-216) are installed (pgs. 1, 12). q Push and hold [PWR] for 1 sec. to turn power ON. wRotate [VOL] to set the desired audio level.
The frequency display shows the volume level while setting. See the section at right for details.
e Set the receiving frequency. (p. 18) r Set the squelch level. (p. 21)
While pushing and holding [SQL], rotate [DIAL]. The rst click of [DIAL] indicates the current squelch level. LEVEL 1 is loose squelch (for weak signals) and LEVEL 9 is tight squelch (for strong signals). AUTO indicates automatic level adjustment by a noise pulse counting system. Push and hold [SQL] to open the squelch manually.

Volume level indicator

tWhen a signal is received:
Squelch opens and audio is output. The S/RF-meter shows the relative signal strength level. e Set frequency r Set squelch level r Push for setting the squelch (Push to monitor) w Set audio level

VOL VOL

Minimum setting (no audio)
Maximum setting q [PWR] e Select band

I Setting squelch level

The squelch circuit mutes the received audio signal depending on the signal strength. The receiver has 9 squelch levels, a continuously open setting and an automatic squelch setting. While pushing and holding [SQL], rotate [DIAL] to select the squelch level.

D Continuous sweep

q Set the desired frequency as band scope center frequency. w Push and hold [SCOPE](1) for 3 sec. to start continuous sweep.
2 short beeps sound after 1 short and 1 long beeps. Signal conditions (strengths) appear starting from the center of the range.
e Push and hold [SCOPE](1) for 1 sec. to cancel sweep.
Pushing [SQL] also cancels sweep.
r Push [VFO] to return to normal operation.

Band scope indication

Sweep marker

D Single sweep

q Set the desired frequency as band scope center frequency. w Push and hold [SCOPE](1) for 1 sec. to start a single sweep.
1 short and 1 long beeps sound. Signal conditions (strengths) appear starting from the center of the range.
The receive audio during sweeping can be muted in sounds set mode. See page 102 for details.
e Rotate [DIAL] to set the highlighted cursor to the desired signal and set the frequency of the signal. r Push [VFO] to return to normal operation.

I Transmitting

CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna will damage the transceiver. NOTE: To prevent interference, listen on the channel before transmitting by pushing and holding [SQL]. q Set the operating frequency. (pgs. 18, 19)
Transmission is available on the 144 MHz/440 MHz amateur bands only. Select output power if desired. See the section at right for details.
I Transmit power selection
The transceiver has two output power levels to suit your operating requirements. Low output power during short-range communications may reduce the possibility of interference to other stations and will reduce current consumption. Push and hold [LOW](3) for 1 sec. to toggle the transmit output power between High and Low.
LOW appears when the low power is selected.
w Push and hold [PTT] to transmit.
Tx/Rx indicator lights red. S/RF meter shows the output power level.
e Speak into the microphone using your normal voice level.
DO NOT hold the transceiver too close to your mouth or speak too loudly. This may distort your speech.

Appears

r Release [PTT] to return to receive.
Low power transmission Microphone
High power transmission Tx/Rx indicator

I Lock function

To prevent accidental frequency changes and unnecessary function access, use the lock function. Push and hold [MENU/LOCK] for 1 sec. to turn the lock function ON and OFF.
appears while the lock function is activated. The squelch control and volume control can be used while the lock function is in use with default setting. Either or both the squelch control and volume control can also be locked in set mode. (p. 90) Appears

I Dualwatch operation

Dualwatch operation monitors two frequencies simultaneously. The IC-91A/91AD has two independent receiver circuits as A band and B band (available frequency bands and operating mode are different depending on bands).

145300

D Checking the repeater input signal
The transceiver can check whether the other stations transmit signal can be received directly or not, by listening on the repeater input frequency. Push and hold [SQL] to check whether the other stations transmit signal can be directly received or not.
When the other stations signal can be directly received, move to a non-repeater frequency to use simplex. (duplex OFF) Indication while receiving.

D Off band indication

If the transmit frequency is out of the amateur band, the off band indication, OFF, appears on the display when [PTT] is pushed. Check the offset frequency or duplex direction in this case. (p. 31)
U.S.A. and Korean versions: Auto repeater function uses standard values of the offset frequency.
Push and hold Receives 0.6 MHz shift frequency.

144 700

CONVENIENT! Tone scan function: When you dont know the subaudible tone used for a repeater, the tone scan is convenient for detecting the tone frequency. Push and hold [T.SCAN](9) for 1 sec. to start the tone scan. See p. 112 for more information.
Blinks while pushing and holding [SQL].

I Duplex operation

Although [DIAL] and [](5) are used for description in this section, [](2)/[](8) and [](6) are available instead of [DIAL] and [](5).
D Setting duplex direction
Push and hold [DUP](4) for 1 sec. to select DUP or +DUP.
DUP or +DUP indicates the transmit frequency for minus shift or plus shift, respectively.
D Setting offset frequency
q Enter OFFSET FREQ in DUP/TONE set mode. (p. 97) MENU screen DUP/TONE OFFSET FREQ
When offset frequency is 0.6 MHz.
w Rotate [DIAL] to set offset frequency.
1 MHz and 10 MHz tuning steps are available by pushing and holding [MHz](VFO) for 1 sec.: push [MHz](VFO) to cancel it. e Push [](5) (or [](4)) to return to DUP/TONE set mode,
and push [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication.
No offset frequency 5.0 MHz offset
U.S.A. and Korean versions:

Duplex example Receiving

OFFSET FREQ

0.000.00

5.000.00
+Duplex example Receiving

+DUP TONE FM

Transmitting

145900

Auto repeater function has priority over the manual duplex setting. If the frequency changes after setting, the auto repeater function may have changed the duplex setting.

I Auto repeater function

The U.S.A. and Korean versions automatically use standard repeater settings (duplex ON/OFF, duplex direction, tone encoder ON/OFF) when the operating frequency falls within or outside of the general repeater output frequency range. The offset and repeater tone frequencies are not changed by the auto repeater function, reset these frequencies, if necessary.
U.S.A./KOREAN versions only q Enter AUTO RPT in set mode. (p. 89) MENU screen SET MODE AUTO RPT

RPT1 CALL SIGN

D Repeater call sign programming
q Select B band as the main band. (p. 14) w Enter R1 or R2 in call sign set mode. MENU screen CALL SIGN R1/R2
(Push [MENU/LOCK]) (Rotate [DIAL], then push [](5).) RPT1 or RPT2 CALL SIGN screen is displayed.
e Rotate [DIAL] to select the desired call sign memory, R01 to R60. r Push [](6) to enter call sign programming mode.

R01 RPT1AA G

Push [A/a](3) to change the character group from AB (alphabetical characters; capital letters), 12 (numbers) and / (symbols) in sequence. Set / at the 1st digit then set the desired area repeaters call sign (in a different zone) for CQ call (/ stands for CQCQCQ) in a different zone operation. (p. 44)
i Push [](5) to store the programmed call sign and returns to RPT1 or RPT2 CALL SIGN screen. o Push [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication.
D Repeater operation in the same zone
qSet the desired repeaters frequency, offset and shift direction in B band. (pgs. 18, 31)
Select DV mode in advance. (p. 21)
t Push [PTT] to transmit; release to receive.
w Set your own call sign. (p. 38)
See p. 34 for your own call sign programming.
e Set the desired station call sign. (p. 39)
See p. 36 for station call sign programming.
r Set the repeaters call sign as follows; z Enter R1 in call sign set mode. MENU screen CALL SIGN R1
xRotate [DIAL] to select the nearest repeaters call sign. cPush [](5) to set the call sign for R1.
Return to CALL SIGN screen.
vRotate [DIAL] to select R2 then push [](5).
RPT2 CALL SIGN screen is displayed.
bRotate [DIAL] to select the desired repeaters (in the same zone) call sign.
Select NOT USE when not operating RPT2.
nPush [](5) to set the call sign for R2.
UR:CQCQCQ R1:RPT1AA R2:NOT USE* MY:MYCALL /IC91
mPush [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication. 42

Setting example 1

Area 1

Repeater 1 : A11111

Area 2

Repeater 2 : A22222

Area 3 (Gateway)

Repeater 3 : A33333

Area 4

Repeater 4 : A44444

AUTO REPLY

BBBBBB /

:BACK :MSG

ePush [](5) or [](4) to return to MESSAGE/POSITION screen. r Push [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication.

ON VOICE

e Push [](5).
Returns to DV SET MODE screen automatically.
r Push [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication. 54
D Voice memory recording for automatic reply
IMPORTANT! Deactivate the dualwatch function and set minimum [VOL] level when recording the DV voice memo. Otherwise received audio or unwanted noise from A band is also recorded into the voice memory. qSelect DV mode in B band, and deactivate the priority watch (p. 83) and weather alert function (p. 114) if activated. w Enter REPLY VOICE in DV voice memo set mode. MENU screen DV VOICE MEMO REPLY VOICE
(Push [MENU/LOCK]) (Rotate [DIAL], then push [](5).) REPLY VOICE screen is displayed.

REPLY VOICE

r REPLY
D Play-back or erase the voice memory
q Push [MENU/LOCK] to select menu mode indication. wRotate [DIAL] to select DV VOICE MEMO, then push [](5). eRotate [DIAL] to select REPLY VOICE, then push [](5).
REPLY VOICE screen is displayed.
rTo play-back the recorded voice memory, push [](5).
Push [](5) again to pause, push [](6) to cancel the play-back.
tTo erase the recorded voice memory, push and hold [CLR](1) for 1 sec.

: :BACK

PTT: G CLR:CLR
eWhile pushing and holding [PTT], speak into the microphone.
Up to 10 seconds of message is recordable. The recording stops after 10 second or when [PTT] is released.
r Push [](4) to return to DV VOICE MEMO screen. t Push [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication.

I EMR communication

The EMR communication mode is available for digital mode operation. In the EMR communication mode, no call sign setting is necessary. When an EMR communication mode signal is received, the audio (voice) will be heard at the specied level even the volume setting level is set to minimum level, or digital call sign/digital code squelch is in use. qSet the desired frequency in 144 or 440 MHz band then push and hold [EMR](.) until 3 short and 1 long beeps sound to turn the EMR setting ON.

EMR appears

DV EMR
I Low-speed data communication
In addition to the digital voice communication, low-speed data communication is available. The optional OPC-1529R DATA COMMUNICATION CABLE and serial data communication software (purchase locally) are required in addition. The optional RS-91 REMOTE CONTROL SOFTWARE (OPC-1529R supplied) also includes a low-speed data communication capability. NOTE: Turn OFF the GPS mode (p. 58) in advance to operate the low-speed data communication.

qSelect DV mode in B band, and deactivate the priority watch (p. 83) and weather alert function (p. 114) if activated. w Enter TRACK in DV voice memo set mode. MENU screen DV VOICE MEMO TRACK
(Push [MENU/LOCK]) (Rotate [DIAL], then push [](5).) TRACK screen is displayed

r TRACK:1

The DV mode indicator blinks when a non-DV signal is received during DV mode operation. The IC-91A/91AD DV automatic detection monitors in FM mode when other than DV mode signal is received. q Enter AUTO DETECT in DV set mode. (p. 95) MENU screen DV SET MODE AUTO DETECT

:BACK CLR:CLR

eRotate [DIAL] to select the desired audio track to be playback or erased.
rPush [](5) to play-back the recorded audio.
Push [](5) again to pause, push [](6) to stop play-back.
wRotate [DIAL] to turn the DV automatic detect function ON and OFF. OFF : DV mode indicator blinks, however the transceiver receives in DV mode even if non-DV mode signals are received. ON : DV mode indicator blinks and the transceiver monitors the signal in FM mode. ePush [](5) (or [](4)) to return to DV SET MODE screen r Push [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication. NOTE: The received FM audio may be distorted when receiving an FM signal with DV automatic detect function.
tPush and hold [CLR](1) for 1 sec. to erase the recorded audio. y Push [](4) to return to DV VOICE MEMO screen. u Push [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication.

MEMORY/CALL CHANNELS

I Selecting a memory channel
D Using [DIAL] Programmed channels
qPush [MR] to select memory mode. wRotate [DIAL] to select the desired memory channel.
Only programmed channels are displayed. [DIAL]

I General description

The IC-91A/91AD has 850 memory channels in A band, 450 memory channels in B band, and 2 call channels in each band. Memory channels in each bands including 50 scan edge memory channels (25 pairs) for storage of often-used frequencies, respectively. And a total of 26 memory banks, A to Z, are available in each bands for storing groups of frequencies, etc. Up to 100 channels can be assigned into a bank.
D Memory channel contents
The following information can be programmed into memory channels: Operating frequency (p. 18) Operating mode (p. 21) Duplex direction (+DUP or DUP) with an offset frequency

(p. 31)

Rotate [DIAL] to select the memory channel.
D Using [DIAL] All channels
qPush [MR] to select memory mode. wPush and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to enter select memory write mode.

VFO mode

Push and hold for 1 sec. to program.

145 870

Push for 1 sec. Enter select memory write mode.

Return to the VFO mode

r Rotate [DIAL] to select the desired channel.
Call channels (C0, C1), VFO (VFO) and scan edge channels (0A/0B to 24A/24B), as well as regular memory channels, can be programmed in this way.
t Push and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to program.
3 beeps sound. Memory channel number automatically increases when continuing to push and hold [S.MW](MR) for 3 sec. after programming. Rotate [DIAL] to select channel 11.

Channel 11

I Memory bank setting
The IC-91A/91AD has a total of 26 banks (A to Z). Regular memory channels, 000 to 799 (A band)/000 to 399 (B band), are assigned to the desired bank for easy memory management. qPush and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to enter select memory write mode.
rPush [](4) or [](6) several times to select the desired bank group from A to Z.
BANK :C-00 MNAME: SKIP :OFF
w Rotate [DIAL] to select the desired memory channel. ePush [](2) or [](8) to select BANK.
Bank group and channel number is displayed if the selected memory channel has already been previously assigned to a bank. [DIAL] FM
Bank group is selected with or.
tRotate [DIAL] to select the bank channel number from 00 to 99.
Only vacant bank channel numbers will be displayed.
BANK :C-05 MNAME: SKIP :OFF
Bank channel is selected with [DIAL].
yPush and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to assign the channel to the bank.
Return to the previous indication.

I Memory bank selection

qPush [MR] several times to select memory bank mode. wWhile pushing and holding [BAND], rotate [DIAL] to select the desired bank (A to Z).
Only programmed banks are displayed. [DIAL]
eRotate [DIAL] to select the bank channel.
Only programmed channels are displayed. [DIAL] Memory bank mode

Memory mode

145 620
Memory channel is displayed. Memory bank mode
rPush [MR] to return to regular memory condition.
Bank channel is displayed.
I Programming memory/bank/scan name
Each memory channel can be programmed with an alphanumeric channel name for easy recognition and can be indicated independently by channel. Names can be a maximum of 8 characters. NOTE: Scan name indication can be turned ON or OFF in display set mode. (p. 101) q Push [MR] to select memory mode.

Airport1

Scan edge channel 03A Bank name indication *Select when programming the memory name or the scan name, respectively. Push and hold for 1 sec. to program.
I Copying memory/call contents
This function transfers a memory channels contents to VFO (or another memory/call channel). This is useful when searching for signals around a memory channel frequency and for recalling the offset frequency, subaudible tone frequency etc. Holding [S.MW](MR) for 2 sec. at the step w, will also copy the memory contents to VFO. In this case, the steps e and r are not necessary.

D Memory/callVFO

q Select the memory (call) channel to be copied. Push [MR] or [CALL] to select memory mode or call channel mode, then rotate [DIAL] to select the desired channel. wPush and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to enter select memory write mode.

D Memory/callmemory/call

q Select the memory (call) channel to be copied. Push [MR] or [CALL] to select memory mode or call channel mode, then rotate [DIAL] to select the desired memory channel. wPush and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to enter select memory write mode.
1 short and 1 long beep sound. indicator blinks. Do not hold [S.MW](MR) for more than 2 sec. otherwise the memory contents will be copied to VFO.
e Rotate [DIAL] to select VFO. rPush and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to write the selected channel contents to VFO mode.
Returns to VFO mode automatically.
e Rotate [DIAL] to select the target memory (call) channel. r Push and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. again to copy.
[EXAMPLE]: Copying memory channel 11 to VFO.
During memory mode, rotate [DIAL] to select memory channel 11.

Push for 1 sec.

Rotate [DIAL] to select VFO. Push FM for 1 sec. VFO

VFO is selected.

I Memory clearing
Contents of programmed memories can be cleared (blanked), if desired. qPush and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to enter select memory write mode.
1 short and 1 long beeps sound. indicator blinks. Do not hold [S.MW](MR) for more than 2 sec. otherwise the memory contents will be copied to VFO. VFO mode

to select CLEAR.

MNAME: SKIP :OFF rCLEAR
wRotate [DIAL] to select the desired memory channel to be cleared. ePush [](2) or [](8) to select CLEAR. r Push and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to clear the contents.
3 beeps sound. The cleared channel changes to blank channel Return to select memory write mode. indicator blinks. Push [VFO] to exit select memory write mode.
Push for 1 sec. to clear.
Rotate [DIAL] to select the desired channel.
NOTE: Be careful! the contents of cleared memories CANNOT be recalled.

Return to the VFO mode.

I Erasing/transferring bank contents
The bank contents of programmed memory channels can be cleared or reassigned to another memory bank. INFORMATION: Even if the memory bank contents are cleared, the memory channel contents still remain programmed. qSelect the desired bank contents to be transferred or erased from the bank. (p. 68) Push [MR] several times to select memory bank mode. While pushing [BAND], rotate [DIAL] to select the desired memory bank group. Rotate [DIAL] to select the bank channel.
ePush [](2) or [](8) to select BANK. rPush [](6) or [](4) several times to select the desired bank group to be transferred.
Select indication when erasing the contents from the bank.
t Rotate [DIAL] to select the desired bank channel.
Skip this step when indication is selected in step r. To transfer the bank contents [DIAL] to ch 11 in Bank B.

433 000

BANK :B-11 BNAME: MNAME: SKIP :OFF
Bank channel is displayed. To erase
BANK :---BNAME: MNAME: SKIP :OFF
wPush [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to enter select memory write mode.
1 short and 1 long beeps sound. Displays the original memory channel number automatically and indicator blinks. Do not hold [S.MW](MR) for more than 2 sec., otherwise the memory contents will be copied to VFO.

is displayed.

yPush [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to erase/transfer the bank contents.

SCAN OPERATION

I Scan types
Scanning searches for signals automatically and makes it easier to locate new stations for contact or listening purposes. There are 7 scan types and 4 resume conditions to suit your operating needs.

FULL SCAN (p. 75)

495 kHz Scan Jump 999.990 MHz

I Scan edges programming

Scan edges can be programmed in the same manner as memory channels. Scan edges are programmed into scan edges, 00A/00B to 24A/24B, in memory channels. q Push [VFO] to select VFO mode. w Set the desired frequency: Select the desired band with [BAND]. Set the desired frequency with [DIAL]. Set other data (e.g. offset frequency, duplex direction, tone squelch, etc.), if desired. ePush and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. to enter the select memory write mode.
1 short and 1 long beeps sound. indicator blinks.
t Push and hold [S.MW](MR) for 1 sec. 3 beeps sound.
The other scan edge channel B, 00B to 24B, is automatically selected when continuing to push [S.MW](MR) after programming.
yTo program a frequency for the other pair of scan edges, 00B to 24B, repeat steps w and r.
If the same frequency is programmed into a pair of scan edges, programmed scan will not function. [DIAL]
rRotate [DIAL] to select the desired programmed scan edge channel from 00A to 24A.
[EXAMPLE]: Programming 145.300 MHz into scan edges 03A.

for 1 sec.

Rotate [DIAL]

BANK :---MNAME: SNAME:

I Memory scan
IMPORTANT!: To perform memory scan, 2 or more memory channels MUST be programmed, otherwise the scan will not start. qPush [MR] to select memory mode. w Set the squelch level. eWhile pushing and holding [SCAN](2), rotate [DIAL] to select the desired scanning type.
ALL for full memory scan; BAND for band memory scan, MODE for mode scan, DUP (appears only when duplex operation is set) for duplex scan. [DIAL] All memory scan selection
r Release [SCAN](2) to start the selected scan.
Scan pauses when a signal is received. Rotate [DIAL] to change the scanning direction, or resumes manually.
t To stop the scan, push [VFO].

During memory scan

Band memory scan function: Repeatedly scans all memory channels programmed with any frequencies of the band programmed in the memory channel selected for scanning. Mode scan function: Repeatedly scans all memory channels in which the same operating mode as the selected memory channel has been programmed. Duplex scan function: Repeatedly scans two frequencies (transmission/reception) during duplex scan operation.
A Band memory scan selection

A Mode scan selection

SCAN:MODE

I Memory bank scan

OFF r ON

MENU SCREEN OPERATION D Auto power ON
Auto power ON function turns the transceiver power ON automatically after passing the set time period from power OFF. Select the desired time period within 30 minutes to 24 hours in 30 minutes steps and OFF. (default: OFF)
AUTO POWER ON AUTO POWER ON

D Microphone simple mode

Microphone simple mode is used to change the function assignments for keys on the optional HM-75A REMOTE CONTROL SPEAKER-MICROPHONE. (pgs. 122, 124) SIMPLE NORM-1 (default) NORM-2

MIC SIMPLE MODE

SIMPLE NORM-1 NORM-2

D Key lock Type

While the key lock function is ON, [PWR], [PTT], [SQL], [VOL] and [MENU](Lock function only) can still be accessed. Accessible keys can be set to 1 of 4 groups. NORMAL : [PWR], [PTT], [SQL], [VOL] and [MENU] (Lock function only) accessible. (default) NO SQL : [PWR], [PTT], [SQL], and [MENU] (Lock function only) are accessible. NO VOL : [PWR], [PTT], [VOL], and [MENU] (Lock function only) are accessible. ALL : [PWR], [PTT] and [MENU] (Lock function only) are accessible.
U.S.A. version only Turns weather alert function ON and OFF. (p. 114) (default: OFF)

WEATHER ALERT

D Weather alert function

NORMAL NO SQL NO VOL ALL

MENU SCREEN OPERATION D PTT lock
Turns the PTT lock function ON and OFF. Transmission with [PTT] is inhibited when ON is selected to prevent accidental transmission, etc. (default: OFF)

PTT LOCK

D Time-out timer
To prevent accidental prolonged transmission, etc., the transceiver has a time-out timer. This function cuts a transmission OFF after 1, 3, 5 or 10 min. of continuous transmission. This timer can be cancelled. OFF : The time-out timer is turned OFF. (default) 1 to 10 MIN : The transmission is cut OFF after the set period elapses.
TIME-OUT TIMER TIME-OUT TIMER

D Busy lockout

Turns the busy lockout function ON and OFF. This function inhibits transmission while receiving a signal or when the squelch is open. (default: OFF)

BUSY LOCKOUT

OFF 1MIN 3MIN 5MIN 10MIN
OFF 1MIN 3MIN 5MIN r 10MIN

D Active band

Allows continuous frequency selection of the operating frequency across all bands. SINGLE : A single operating frequency can be selected within the current band. Push [BAND] for band selection in this case. ALL : The operating frequency can be selected continuously. (default)

ACTIVE BAND ACTIVE BAND

SINGLE r ALL

SINGLE ALL

I DV set mode items
The following items are selectable by the IC-91AD or optional UT-121 is installed into the IC-91A.

CALL SIGN RX CALL S MESSAGE/POS

M01 GHIJKL 300 500

Continue to the next page.

U01 ABCDEF r300 500

SET MODE DV SET MODE
t Rotate to RX CALL S SIGN in CALL SIGN select MY CALL MESSAGE/POS set mode, then push [](5) to enter MY CALL SIGN setting. MENU screen YOUR CALL SIGN MY CALL SIGN CALL SIGN [DIAL]
(Push [MENU/LOCK])U01 [DIAL], then push [](5).) (Rotate
select y Rotate [DIAL] to 500 the desired call sign.
Input the call sign if the desired call sign is not stored in the transceiver. See pgs. 34 and 35 for detail.

ABCDEF 300

CAUTION!: Use digital code squelch when operating with more than 3 stations. Because the digital call sign squelch function recognizes MY CALL SIGN, the digital call sign squelch function can be used when operating with only one station. NOTE: The tone/DTCS code squelch opens sometimes when other stations communicate with adjacent tone frequency or DTCS code.

M01 GHIJKL r300 500

u Push [](5) to set call sign and push [MENU/LOCK] to return to frequency indication.

I Tone/DTCS squelch

q Set the desired operating frequency, CTCSS tone and DTCS code. w Push and hold [TONE](7) for 1 sec. several times to activate the tone or DTCS squelch. (TONE, TSQL or DTCS)
Subaudible tone encoder TONE, tone squelch TSQL, pocket beep TSQLS, DTCS squelch DTCS, DTCS beep DTCSS and no tone operation are activated in order. Rotating [DIAL] while pushing [TONE](7) also selects the tone functions.
I Digital code/digital call sign squelch
The optional UT-121 is required for the IC-91A q Set the desired operating frequency on DV mode, Digital code and MY CALL SIGN. w Push and hold [DSQ](7) for 1 sec. several times to activate the digital code or digital call sign squelch. (DSQL or CSQL)
Digital call sign squelch DSQL, Digital call sign beep DSQLS, Digital code squelch CSQL, Digital code beep B B CSQLS and no tone operation are activated in order. MemoName MemoName Rotating [DIAL] while pushing [DSQ](7) also selects the tone functions.
+DUP TONE FM PRIO WX EMR +DUP DTCS FM PRIO WX EMR PSKIP PSKIP +DUP TSQL FM PRIO WX EMR
e Operate the transceiver in the normal way. r When the received signal includes a matching tone/code, the squelch opens and the signal can be heard.
When the received signals tone/code does not match, tone/DTCS squelch does not open, however, the S-indicator shows signal strength. To open the squelch manually, push and hold [SQL].
Subaudible tone encoder No tone operation

+DUP TONE FM PRIO WX EMR

e Operate the transceiver in the normal way. MemoName MemoName r When the received signal includes a matching call sign/code, the squelch opens and the signal can be heard. When the received signals call sign/code does not match, digital

Shows above indications alternately.
u Turn the weather alert function OFF in set mode. NOTE: While receiving a signal (on a frequency other than the weather alert ON frequency), the receiving signal or audio will be interrupted momentarily every 5 sec. (approx.) in the case that the alert function is turned ON. This symptom is caused by the WX alert function. To cancel these symptoms, set the weather alert item OFF in set mode.

Circuit ON Circuit OFF

150 msec. 60 sec. 60 sec.

I Auto power OFF

The transceiver can be set to automatically turn OFF after a specied period with a beep when no switch is pushed. 120 min., 90 min., 60 min., 30 min. and OFF can be specified. The specified period is retained even when the transceiver is turned OFF by the auto power-off function. To cancel the function, select OFF in the auto power-off item in set mode. This can be selected with AP OFF in set mode. (p. 88) MENU screen SET MODE AP OFF

I Time-out timer

To prevent accidental prolonged transmission, etc., the transceiver has a time-out timer. This timer cuts a transmission OFF after 1, 3, 5 or 10 min. of continuous transmission. This timer can be cancelled (default). Approx. 10 sec. before the time-out timer is activated, the transceiver emits a beep tone as a warning. This can be selected with TOT in set mode. (p. 91) MENU screen SET MODE TOT

I Auto power ON

The transceiver can be set to automatically turn ON after a specied period. The timer can be selected within 30 min. to 24 hrs. in 30 min. steps. This can be selected with AP ON in set mode. (p. 90) MENU screen SET MODE AP ON

I PTT lock

To prevent accidental transmission, etc., the transceiver has a PTT lock function. This can be selected with PTT LOCK in set mode. (p. 91) MENU screen SET MODE PTT LOCK
When operating with battery pack or case and the battery is exhausted, auto power-on does not function. A slight current still ows in the circuits during standby condition of the auto power-on function. 116

I Cloning function

The IC-91A/91AD has transceiver-to-transceiver data cloning capability. This function is useful when you want to copy all of the programmed contents from one IC-91A/91AD to another. An optional OPC-474 CLONING CABLE is required. q Turn the transceivers power OFF, then connect an optional OPC-474 between both [SP] jacks. w While pushing [MR] and [MENU/LOCK], push and hold [PWR] for 1 sec. to enter cloning mode.