Icom IC-91A User manual

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is sub-
ject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
WARNING: MODIFICATION OF THIS DEVICE TO RECEIVE CEL-
LULAR RADIO TELEPHONE SERVICE SIGNALS IS PROHIBITED
UNDER FCC RULES AND FEDERAL LAW.
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
i91A
VHF/UHF FM TRANSCEIVER
YThe above photo
shows IC-91AD.
i91AD
VHF/UHF DIGITAL TRANSCEIVER

i
FOREWORD
Thank you for purchase of this fine Icom product. We under-
stand you have a choice of many different radios in the mar-
ket place. Many hours of research and development went into
the design of your IC-91A/91AD, following Icom’s philosophy
of “technology first.”
The IC-91A/91AD
VHF / UHF FM TRANSCEIVER is designed with
Icom’s superior technology and craftsmanship combining tra-
ditional analog technologies with the new digital D-STAR
technologies for a balanced packaged.
With proper care, this product should provide you with years
of trouble-free operation. We want to take a couple of mo-
ments of your time to thank you for making your IC-91A/91AD
your radio of choice, and hope you agree with Icom’s philos-
ophy of “technology first.”
EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS
FEATURES
❍DV mode (Digital voice + Low-speed data
communication) operation is ready
– GPS receiver connection
– Text message and call sign exchange
(Optional UT-121 DIGITAL UNIT is required for IC-91A.)
❍Simple band scope
❍Dualwatch operation
❍Optional PC remote control
IMPORTANT
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS carefully and completely
before using the transceiver.
SAVE THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL— This in-
struction manual contains important operating instructions for
the IC-91A/91AD.
WORD DEFINITION
RWARNING!
CAUTION
NOTE
Personal injury, fire hazard or electric shock
may occur.
Equipment damage may occur.
Recommended for optimum use. No risk of
personal injury, fire or electric shock.
Icom, Icom Inc. and the logo are registered trademarks of Icom
Incorporated (Japan) in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ger-
many, France, Spain, Russia and/or other countries.

ii
PRECAUTIONS 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
RWARNING RF EXPOSURE! This device emits
Radio Frequency (RF) energy. Caution should be observed
when operating this device. If you have any questions re-
garding RF exposure and safety standards please refer to the
Federal Communications Commission Office of Engineering
and Technology’s report on Evaluating Compliance with FCC
Guidelines for Human Radio Frequency Electromagnetic
Fields (OET Bulletin 65)
RWARNING! NEVER hold the transceiver so that the
antenna is very close to, or touching 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 (2
to 4 inches) away from the lips and the transceiver is vertical.
RWARNING! NEVER operate the transceiver with a
earphone, headphones or other audio accessories at high
volume levels. Hearing experts advise against continuous
high volume operation. If you experience a ringing in your
ears, reduce the volume level or discontinue use.
RWARNING! NEVER operate the transceiver while
driving a vehicle. Safe driving requires your full attention—
anything less may result in an accident.
NEVER connect the transceiver to a power source of more
than 16 V DC. This will ruin the transceiver.
NEVER connect the transceiver to a power source using
reverse polarity. This will ruin the transceiver.
NEVER expose the transceiver to rain, snow or any liquids.
The transceiver may be damaged.
NEVER operate or touch the transceiver with wet hands.
This may result in an electric shock or damage the trans-
ceiver.
DO NOT operate the transceiver near unshielded electri-
cal blasting caps or in an explosive atmosphere.
DO NOT push the PTT when not actually desiring to transmit.
BE CAREFUL! The transceiver will become hot when op-
erating it continuously for long periods.
AVOID using or placing the transceiver in direct sunlight or
in areas with temperatures below –20°C (–4˚F) or above
+60°C (+140˚F).
Place the unit in a secure place to avoid inadvertent use by
children.
AVOID the use of chemical agents such as benzine or al-
cohol when cleaning, as they can damage the transceiver’s
surfaces.
For U.S.A. only
CAUTION!: Changes or modifications to this device, not
expressly approved by Icom Inc., could void your authority to
operate this device under FCC regulations.
17
18
19

iii
FOREWORD …………………………………………………………… i
EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS ……………………………………………… i
FEATURES ……………………………………………………………… i
IMPORTANT …………………………………………………………… i
PRECAUTIONS ……………………………………………………… ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS ……………………………………………… iii
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES ………………………………………… v
1 ACCESSORY ATTACHMENT ………………………………… 1
■Antenna ………………………………………………………… 1
■Belt clip ………………………………………………………… 1
■Handstrap ……………………………………………………… 1
■Battery pack …………………………………………………… 1
2 PANEL DESCRIPTION ……………………………………… 2–7
■Front, top and side panels …………………………………… 2
■Function display ……………………………………………… 6
3 BATTERY CHARGING ……………………………………… 8–13
■Caution ………………………………………………………… 8
■Regular charging ……………………………………………… 10
■Rapid charging ……………………………………………… 11
■Optional battery case ………………………………………… 12
■Battery information …………………………………………… 12
■External DC power operation ……………………………… 13
4 FREQUENCY AND CHANNEL SETTING ……………… 14–19
■Main band selection ………………………………………… 14
■Mode selection ……………………………………………… 15
■Operating band selection …………………………………… 16
■Setting a tuning step ………………………………………… 18
■Setting a frequency …………………………………………… 18
5 BASIC OPERATION ……………………………………… 20–28
■Receiving ……………………………………………………… 20
■Setting audio volume ………………………………………… 20
■Setting squelch level ………………………………………… 21
■Operating mode selection …………………………………… 21
■Monitor function ……………………………………………… 22
■Attenuator function …………………………………………… 22
■Band scope …………………………………………………… 23
■Transmitting …………………………………………………… 24
■Transmit power selection …………………………………… 24
■Lock function ………………………………………………… 25
■Dualwatch operation ………………………………………… 25
■TV channel operation ………………………………………… 28
6 REPEATER AND DUPLEX OPERATIONS ……………… 29–33
■Repeater operation …………………………………………… 29
■Duplex operation ……………………………………………… 31
■Auto repeater function ……………………………………… 32
■1750 Hz tone ………………………………………………… 33
7 DV MODE OPERATION
(Optional UT-121 is required for IC-91A) ………………… 34–63
■Digital mode operation ……………………………………… 34
■Call sign programming ……………………………………… 34
■Digital voice mode operation ………………………………… 38
■About D-STAR system ……………………………………… 40
■Digital repeater operation …………………………………… 41
■Received call sign …………………………………………… 46
■Copying the call sign ………………………………………… 48
■Break-in communication …………………………………… 51
■Message operation …………………………………………… 52
■Automatic reply function ……………………………………… 54
TABLE OF CONTENTS

iv
■EMR communication ………………………………………… 56
■Low-speed data communication …………………………… 56
■GPS operation ………………………………………………… 58
■Other functions for DV mode operation …………………… 62
8 MEMORY/CALL CHANNELS …………………………… 64–73
■General description ………………………………………… 64
■Selecting a memory channel ………………………………… 64
■Selecting a call channel ……………………………………… 65
■Memory channel programming ……………………………… 66
■Memory bank setting ………………………………………… 67
■Memory bank selection ……………………………………… 68
■Programming memory/bank/scan name …………………… 69
■Selecting memory/bank name indication ………………… 70
■Copying memory/call contents ……………………………… 71
■Memory clearing ……………………………………………… 72
■Erasing/transferring bank contents ………………………… 73
9 SCAN OPERATION ………………………………………… 74–81
■Scan types …………………………………………………… 74
■Full/band/programmed scan ………………………………… 75
■Scan edges programming …………………………………… 76
■Memory scan ………………………………………………… 77
■Memory bank scan …………………………………………… 78
■Skip channel/frequency setting ……………………………… 79
■Scan resume condition ……………………………………… 81
10 PRIORITY WATCH ………………………………………… 82–84
■Priority watch types ………………………………………… 82
■Priority watch operation ……………………………………… 83
11 MENU SCREEN OPERATION ………………………… 85–102
■General ………………………………………………………… 85
■MENU screen indication for B band ………………………… 86
■Menu list ……………………………………………………… 86
■Items list ……………………………………………………… 86
■Set mode items ……………………………………………… 88
■DV set mode items …………………………………………… 92
■Scan set mode items ………………………………………… 96
■DUP/TONE set mode items ………………………………… 97
■Display set mode items ……………………………………… 99
■Sounds set mode items …………………………………… 102
12 OTHER FUNCTIONS …………………………………… 103–118
■Programming a DTMF code ……………………………… 103
■Transmitting a DTMF code ………………………………… 104
■Clearing a DTMF memory ………………………………… 105
■Confirming a DTMF memory ……………………………… 105
■Setting DTMF transfer speed ……………………………… 106
■Tone frequency and DTCS code ………………………… 106
■Digital code and digital call sign setting ………………… 108
■Tone/DTCS squelch ………………………………………… 110
■Digital code/digital call sign squelch ……………………… 110
■Pocket beep function ……………………………………… 111
■DTCS polarity setting ……………………………………… 111
■Tone scan …………………………………………………… 112
■Beep tones …………………………………………………… 113
■Dial speed acceleration …………………………………… 113
■Key lock effect ……………………………………………… 113
■Weather channel operation ………………………………… 114
■Power save ………………………………………………… 115
■Auto power OFF …………………………………………… 116

■Auto power ON ……………………………………………… 116
■Time-out timer ……………………………………………… 116
■PTT lock ……………………………………………………… 116
■Cloning function …………………………………………… 117
■[MIC/SP] jacks ……………………………………………… 117
■Resetting …………………………………………………… 118
13 TROUBLESHOOTING ………………………………………… 119
14 SPECIFICATIONS ……………………………………… 120–121
15 OPTIONS ………………………………………………… 122–124
■Optional UT-121 installation ……………………………… 123
■Optional HM-75A
REMOTE CONTROL MICROPHONE ……… 124
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES
The following accessories are supplied with the transceiver.
qHand strap ………………………………………………… 1
wAntenna …………………………………………………… 1
eBattery pack* ……………………………………………… 1
rBattery charger* …………………………………………… 1
tBelt clip (with screws) ………………………………… 1 set
*Not supplied with some versions.
re
q
t
w
v

1
1
ACCESSORY ATTACHMENT
1
■Antenna
Insert the supplied antenna into the
antenna connector and screw down
the antenna as shown at left.
NEVER carry the transceiver by hold-
ing the antenna.
KEEP the jack cover attached when
jack is not in use to protect the con-
nector from dust and moisture.
✔ For your information
Third-party antennas may increase transceiver perfor-
mance. An optional AD-92SMA
ANTENNA CONNECTOR
ADAPTER
is available to connect an antenna with a BNC
connector.
■Belt clip
■Handstrap
Slide the handstrap through the loop
on the top of the belt clip as illustrated
at left to facilitate carrying the
transceiver.
■Battery pack
Attach the Li-Ion battery pack (BP-217) or battery case (BP-
216) as illustrated below.
• Charge the Li-Ion battery pack before use. (pgs. 10, 11)
Battery pack/
Battery case
Latch
q
w
Handstrap
Supplied screws* *NOTE:
USE the supplied screws
only. Using screws lon-
ger than specified could
damage the transceiver.
Jack cover

2
PANEL DESCRIPTION
2
■Front, top and side panels
qANTENNA CONNECTOR (p. 1)
Connects the supplied antenna.
• An optional AD-92SMA adapter (p. 122) is available for connect-
ing an antenna with a BNC connector.
wTX/RX INDICATOR [TX/RX] (p. 24)
Lights green while receiving a signal or when the squelch
is open; lights red while transmitting.
ePTT SWITCH [PTT] (p. 24)
Push and hold to transmit, release to receive.
rSQUELCH KEY [SQL]
➥Push and hold to open the squelch temporarily and
monitor the operating frequency. (p. 22)
➥While pushing and holding this key, rotate [DIAL] to ad-
just the squelch level. (p. 21)
tMENU/LOCK KEY [MENU/LOCK]
➥Push to toggle menu screen indication ON and OFF.
(p. 85)
➥Push and hold for 1 sec. to toggle the lock function ON
and OFF. (p. 25)
yPOWER KEY [PWR]
Push and hold for 1 sec. to turn the transceiver power ON
and OFF.
uMAIN/DUAL KEY [MAIN/DUAL]
➥Push to select the main band between A and B bands.
(p. 26)
➥Push and hold for 1 sec. to toggle the dualwatch func-
tion ON and OFF. (p. 25)
iKEYPAD (pgs. 4, 5)
q
w
!5
Function display
Internal microphone
Speaker
!2
!6
e
r
t
y
u
i
!4
!3
o
!0
!1
!7

3
2
PANEL DESCRIPTION
2
oCALL/RX➝CS KEY [CALL]/[RX➝CS](CALL)
➥Push to select the call channel/TV channel/weather
channel. (p. 16)
➥During DV mode operation, push and hold for 1 sec. to
set the received call signs (station and repeaters) for
operation. (p. 47)
➥Enters or sends the DTMF code “C.” (pgs. 103, 104)
!0MEMORY/SELECT MEMORY WRITE KEY
[MR]/[S.MW](MR)
➥Push to select memory mode. (p. 15)
➥During memory mode operation, push to toggle be-
tween memory and memory bank mode. (p. 68)
➥Push and hold for 1 sec. to enter select memory write
mode. (p. 64)
➥Enters or sends the DTMF code “B.” (pgs. 103, 104)
!1VFO/MHz KEY [VFO]/[MHz](VFO)
➥Push to toggle select VFO mode. (p. 15)
➥During VFO mode operation, push and hold for 1 sec. to
select and toggle 1 MHz and 10 MHz tuning steps
(p. 18)
➥Enters or sends the DTMF code “A.” (pgs. 103, 104)
!2BAND KEY [BAND]
➥During VFO mode operation, push to select an operat-
ing frequency band. (pgs. 16, 17)
➥During memory bank mode, push to select a memory
bank. (p. 68)
➥Enters or sends the DTMF code “D.” (pgs. 103, 104)
!3EXTERNAL DC IN JACK [DC IN]
➥Connects the supplied wall charger, BC-167, to charge
the attached battery pack. (p. 10)
➥Connect an external DC power supply through the op-
tional CP-12L, CP-19R or OPC-254L for external DC
operation. (p. 13)
!4DATA JACK [DATA]
Connects a PC through the optional data communication
cable, OPC-1529R, for low-speed data communication or
control the transceiver remotely using the optional RS-91
(OPC-1529R is supplied). (p. 56)
!5VOLUME CONTROL [VOL]
Rotate to adjust the audio output level. (p. 20)
!6CONTROL DIAL [DIAL]
➥Rotate to tune the operating frequency. (p. 18)
➥During memory mode, rotate to select the memory
channel. (pgs. 15, 64)
➥While pushing and holding [BAND], selects the operat-
ing band in VFO mode. (p. 18)
➥While scanning, changes the scanning direction. (p. 75)
➥While pushing and holding [SQL], sets the squelch
level. (p. 21)
➥While pushing and holding [BAND], selects the pro-
grammed bank in memory mode. (p. 68)
!7EXTERNAL SPEAKER/MICROPHONE JACK [MIC/SP]
Connect an optional speaker-microphone or headset, if de-
sired.
See page 122 for a list of available options.

4
2PANEL DESCRIPTION
DDKEYPAD
KEY Pushed momentarily Pushed and held for 1 sec.
• Inputs digit ‘1’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “1.”
• Inputs digit ‘2’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “2.”
• Inputs digit ‘3’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “3.”
• Inputs digit ‘4’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “4.”
• Inputs digit ‘5’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “5.”
• Inputs digit ‘6’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “6.”
• Displays the simple band scope for a single sweep. (p. 23)
• Starts a scan. (p. 75)
• Toggles the transmit output power between high and low. (p. 24)
- “LOW” appears when low power is selected.
- While pushing and holding this key, with [DIAL] rotation selects
the output power.
• Activates the following duplex functions in order.
- Minus duplex operation— “–DUP” appears.
- Plus duplex operation— “+DUP” appears.
- Simplex operation— no duplex indicator appears.
- While pushing and holding this key, with [DIAL] rotation selects
the duplex function.
• Turn the frequency skip function ON and OFF in VFO mode, or
set the memory channel as the following skip channel in memory
mode in order (p. 79).
- Skip channel— “SKIP” appears.
- Frequency skip channel— “PSKIP” appears.
- Non-skip channel— no skip indicator appears.
• Turn the memory name or bank name indication ON and OFF.
(p. 70)

5
2
PANEL DESCRIPTION
2
KEY Pushed momentarily Pushed and held for 1 sec.
• Inputs digit ‘7’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “7.”
• Inputs digit ‘8’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “8.”
• Inputs digit ‘9’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “9.”
• Inputs digit ‘0’ for frequency input, memory channel selection,
etc.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “0.”
• Inputs MHz digit for frequency input.
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “F (#).”
• During DV mode operation, selects the record track for voice
memory. (p. 62)
• While pushing [PTT], this key sends the DTMF code “E (✱).”
• During FM/FM-N mode operation, selects repeater tone, tone
squelch, DTCS squelch and no tone operation in sequence.
(p. 110)
• During DV mode operation, selects digital call sign, digital code
and no tone operation in sequence. (p. 110)
• Selects tuning step selection. (p. 18)
• During FM/FM-N mode operation, starts tone scan function.
(p. 112)
• During DV mode operation, selects break-in operation mode.
(p. 51)
• During DV mode operation, set “CQCQCQ” for station’s call sign
for operation.
• Select DTMF memory mode. (p. 103)
• During DV mode operation, to turn EMR mode operation ON,
keep pushing and holding until 3 short and 1 long beeps are
emitted. (p. 56)
• Selects the operating mode.

6
2PANEL DESCRIPTION
■Function display
qBATTERY INDICATOR (pgs. 10, 12)
➥“ ” (battery indicators) appear when the Li-Ion bat-
tery pack is attached.
➥“ ” appears when the battery pack must be charged.
➥The indicators show “ ,” “ ” and “ ” in se-
quence while charging the attached battery pack.
wDUPLEX INDICATORS (p. 29)
“+DUP” appears when plus duplex, “–DUP” appears when
minus duplex is selected.
ePRIORITY WATCH INDICATOR (p. 83)
Appears when priority watch is in use.
rTONE INDICATORS
• While operating in FM mode;
➥“TONE” appears while the subaudible tone encoder is
in use. (pgs. 29, 106)
➥“TSQL” appears while the tone squelch function is in
use. (p. 110)
➥“DTCS” appears while the DTCS squelch function is in
use. (p. 110)
➥“S” appears with the “TSQL” or “DTCS” indicator
while the pocket beep function (with CTCSS or DTCS) is
in use. (p. 111)
• While operating in DV mode;
➥“DSQL” appears while the call sign squelch function is
in use. (p. 110)
➥“CSQL” appears while the digital code squelch function
is in use. (p. 110)
MemoName
µ
PRIO EMR
DSQL
DV
B
LOW
ATT
439706
PSKIP
-DUP
25
000
PS
PRIOPRIO
25
µ
000000
88 100
DTCS PS
PRIOPRIO
-DUP
75
µ
000000
43970
q
!6 i e o
we r ty
!1
!8!1y !4
!2
!3
!7
q
!4
!5
!6
!7 u
t
!0
!6 w r e o
!8!1!2 !4
!7
i
!3
!0
i
o
!0
• Dualwatch indication
• Single band indication

7
2
PANEL DESCRIPTION
2
➥“S” appears with the “DSQL” or “CSQL” indicator
while the pocket beep function (with digital call sign or dig-
ital code squelch) is in use. (p. 111)
tKEY LOCK INDICATOR (pgs. 25, 113)
Appears when the key lock function is activated.
yAUTO POWER OFF INDICATOR (p. 88)
Appears when the auto power OFF function is in use.
uEMR MODE INDICATOR (p. 56)
Appears when the EMR mode operation is selected.
iFREQUENCY READOUT
Displays a variety of information, such as operating fre-
quency, set mode contents, memory names.
• The decimal point blinks during scan.
oSKIP INDICATORS (pgs. 79, 80)
➥“SKIP” appears when the selected memory channel is
set as a skip channel.
➥“P SKIP” appears when the displayed frequency is set
as a skip frequency.
!0MEMORY CHANNEL NUMBER INDICATOR
➥Shows the selected memory channel number. (pgs. 64,
65)
➥“C” appears when the call channel is selected. (pgs. 16,
65)
➥“WX” appears when the weather channel is selected.
(pgs. 16, 114)
➥“TV” appears when the TV channel is selected.
(pgs. 16, 28)
!1S/RF METER
➥Shows the relative signal strength while receiving sig-
nals.
➥Shows the output power level while transmitting. (p. 24)
!2ATTENUATOR INDICATOR (p. 22)
Appears when the RF attenuator is in use.
!3LOW POWER INDICATOR (p. 24)
➥“LOW” appears when low power is selected.
➥No indicator appears when high power is selected.
!4MEMORY INDICATOR (p. 64)
Appears when memory mode is selected.
!5NAME INDICATOR (p. 70)
During memory mode operation, the programmed memory
or memory bank name is displayed.
!6MAIN BAND INDICATOR (p. 14)
Shows which operating band, “A” or “B,” is selected for the
main band.
!7OPERATING MODE INDICATOR (p. 21)
Shows the selected operating mode.
• DV, FM, FM-N, WFM and AM are available, depending on oper-
ating band.
!8SIMPLE BAND SCOPE INDICATOR (p. 23)
When the simple band scope function is in use, shows the
band conditions.

8
BATTERY CHARGING
3
■Caution
•RDANGER! Use and charge only specified Icom battery
packs with Icom radios. Only Icom battery packs are tested
and approved for use with Icom radios. Using third-party or
counterfeit battery packs may cause smoke, fire, or cause
the battery to burst.
DDBattery caution
•RDANGER! DO NOT hammer or otherwise impact the bat-
tery. Do not use the battery if it has been severely impacted
or dropped, or if the battery has been subjected to heavy
pressure. Battery damage may not be visible on the outside
of the case. Even if the surface of the battery does not show
cracks or any other damage, the cells inside the battery may
rupture or catch fire.
•RDANGER! NEVER use or leave battery pack in areas
with temperatures above +60˚C (+140˚F). High temperature
buildup in the battery, such as could occur near fires or
stoves, inside a sun heated car, or in direct sunlight may
cause the battery to rupture or catch fire. Excessive temper-
atures may also degrade battery performance or shorten
battery life.
•RDANGER! DO NOT expose the battery to rain, snow,
seawater, or any other liquids. Do not charge or use a wet
battery. If the battery gets wet, be sure to wipe it dry before
using. The battery is not waterproof.
•RDANGER! NEVER incinerate an used battery pack since
internal battery gas may cause it to rupture, or may cause
an explosion.
•RDANGER! NEVER solder the battery terminals, or
NEVER modify the battery pack. This may cause heat gen-
eration, and the battery may burst, emit smoke or catch fire.
•RDANGER! Use the battery only with the transceiver for
which it is specified. Never use a battery with any other
equipment, or for any purpose that is not specified in this in-
struction manual.
•RDANGER! If fluid from inside the battery gets in your
eyes, blindness can result. Rinse your eyes with clean
water, without rubbing them, and see a doctor immediately.
•WARNING! Immediately stop using the battery if it emits an
abnormal odor, heats up, or is discolored or deformed. If any
of these conditions occur, contact your Icom dealer or dis-
tributor.
•WARNING! Immediately wash, using clean water, any part
of the body that comes into contact with fluid from inside the
battery.
Misuse of Lithium-Ion batteries may result in the follow-
ing hazards: smoke, fire, or the battery may rupture.
Misuse can also cause damage to the battery or degra-
dation of battery performance.

9
3
BATTERY CHARGING
3
•WARNING! NEVER put the battery in a microwave oven,
high-pressure container, or in an induction heating cooker.
This could cause a fire, overheating, or cause the battery to
rupture.
•CAUTION! Always use the battery within the specified tem-
perature range, –20˚C to +60˚C (–4˚F to +140˚F). Using the
battery out of its specified temperature range will reduce the
battery’s performance and battery life.
•CAUTION! Shorter battery life could occur if the battery is
left fully charged, completely discharged, or in an excessive
temperature environment (above +50˚C; +122˚F) for an ex-
tended period of time. If the battery must be left unused for a
long time, it must be detached from the radio after discharg-
ing. You may use the battery until the battery indicator
shows half-capacity, then keep it safely in a cool dry place
with the temperature between –20˚C to +20˚C (–4˚F to
+68˚F).
DDCharging caution
•RDANGER! NEVER charge the battery pack in areas with
extremely high temperatures, such as near fires or stoves,
inside a sun heated car, or in direct sunlight. In such envi-
ronments, the safety/protection circuit in the battery will acti-
vate, causing the battery to stop charging.
•WARNING! DO NOT charge or leave the battery in the bat-
tery charger beyond the specified time for charging. If the
battery is not completely charged by the specified time, stop
charging and remove the battery from the battery charger.
Continuing to charge the battery beyond the specified time
limit may cause a fire, overheating, or the battery may rup-
ture.
•WARNING! NEVER insert the transceiver (battery attached
to the transceiver) into the charger if it is wet or soiled. This
could corrode the battery charger terminals or damage the
charger. The charger is not waterproof.
•CAUTION! DO NOT charge the battery outside of the spec-
ified temperature range: 0˚C to +35˚C (+32˚F to +95˚F).
Icom recommends charging the battery at +20˚C (+68˚F).
The battery may heat up or rupture if charged out of the
specified temperature range. Additionally, battery perfor-
mance or battery life may be reduced.

10
3BATTERY CHARGING
■Regular charging
Prior to using the transceiver for the first time, the battery
pack must be fully charged for optimum life and operation.
DDBattery indicators
The indicators show “ ,” “ ” and “ ” in sequence
while charging, and both indicators disappear when com-
pletely charged.
DDCharging note
• Be sure to turn the transceiver power OFF.
Otherwise the battery pack will not be charged completely or takes
longer charging time periods.
• External DC power operation becomes possible when using
an optional CP-12L, CP-19R or OPC-254L. The attached
battery pack is also charged simultaneously, except during
transmit. (see p. 11 for more details)
• The external DC power supply voltage must be within
10–16 V to charge the battery pack and operation when
using an optional OPC-254L.
•BC-167A/D
•CP-12L (Optional)
•CP-19R (Optional)
•OPC-254L (Optional)
to AC outlet
to cigarette lighter
socket (12 V DC)
to 12 V DC
(power supply)
White: +
Black: _
Transceiver
to
[DC IN]
Turn power OFF while
charging the battery
pack.
•Charging time period:
Approx. 6 hours

11
3
BATTERY CHARGING
3
■Rapid charging
The optional BC-139 provides rapid charging of the battery
pack.
• Charging period: 2.5 hours (with BP-217)
DDCharging note
• Be sure to turn the transceiver power OFF.
Detach the battery pack from the transceiver then charge
the battery pack by itself, or charge the battery with regular
charging when the transceiver power cannot be turned OFF.
Otherwise the battery pack will not be charged (charging indi-
cator on the BC-139 blinks orange).
• The desktop charger, BC-139, can only be charged BP-217.
Other types of rechargeable battery, Ni-Cd or Ni-MH, can-
not be charged.
• If the charging indicator blinks orange, there may be a prob-
lem with the battery pack (or charger). Reinsert the battery
pack or contact your dealer.
• The optional CP-12L, CP-19R and OPC-254L can be used
instead of the supplied AC adapter (BC-123). Connect one of
these to the [AC ADAPTER] jack in this case.
A
Transceiver
(with battery pack)
Turn power OFF.
Check the
orientation.
Battery pack
to AC outlet
BC-139 (optional)
Desktop charger
to [AC ADAPTER]
Adapter (supplied
with BC-139)
Charging indicator
Charging : Orange
Finished : Green
Charging
terminal
BC-123
(supplied
with BC-139)

12
3BATTERY CHARGING
■Optional battery case
➥Install 2 R6 (AA) size alka-
line batteries into the op-
tional BP-216
BATTERY
CASE
.
• Be sure to observe the cor-
rect polarity.
A built-in step-up convertor in the BP-216 increases the
voltage to 5 V DC.
Approx. 100 mW of output power is possible with the BP-
216 operation. Also, no transmit output power selection is
available.
Keep battery contacts clean. It’s a good idea to clean bat-
tery terminals once a week.
DBattery information
The batteries may seem to have low capacity when used in
low temperatures such as –10°C (+14°F) or below. Keep the
battery case or pack warm in this case.
DBattery replacement
When the batteries become exhausted, the function display
may blink or have a lower contrast. In these cases, replace
all batteries with new, same brand, alkaline batteries.
■Battery information
DDBattery life
The transceiver operates with the BP-217 as follows.
However, when operating in DV mode, operating time may be
shortened by one-half hour.
•VHF band : Approx. 5 hours
•UHF band : Approx. 4.5 hours
(Tx: Rx: Stand-by=1: 1: 8)
Even when the transceiver power is OFF, a slight current
still flows in the circuits. Remove the battery pack or case
from the transceiver when not using it for a long time. Oth-
erwise, the battery pack or installed batteries will become
exhausted.
DDBattery indicator
The battery indicator, “ ,” appears only when the BP-217
is attached to the transceiver.
The battery indicator does not appear when turning power
ON after the charging is completed without disconnecting
the battery charger or external DC power.
Indication Battery condition
The battery has ample capacity.
The battery is nearing exhaustion. Charging is neces-
sary.

13
3
BATTERY CHARGING
3
■External DC power operation
An optional cigarette lighter cable (CP-12L or CP-19R; for 12 V
cigarette lighter socket) or external DC power cable (OPC-254L)
can be used for external power operation.
DDOperating note
• Power supply range is between 10.0–16.0 V DC.
NEVER CONNECT OVER 16 V DC directly into the [DC IN]
jack of the transceiver.
•BE SURE to use CP-12L,CP-19R or OPC-254L when con-
necting a regulated 12 V DC power supply.
Use an external DC-DC converter to connect the transceiver
through optional CP-12L, CP-19R or OPC-254L to a 24 V
DC power source.
• The voltage of the external power supply must be within
10–16 V DC when using either CP-12L, CP-19R or OPC-
254L, otherwise, use the battery pack.
• Up to 5 W (approx.) of maximum output power is provided
with the external DC power operation, however, when the
supplied voltage exceeds 14 V, the built-in protection circuit
activates to reduce the transmit output power to 0.5 W (ap-
prox.).
• Disconnect the power cables from the transceiver when not
using it. Otherwise, the vehicle battery will become ex-
hausted.
• The power save function is deactivated automatically during
external DC power operation.
•CP-12L (Optional)
•CP-19R (Optional)
•OPC-254L (Optional)
to cigarette lighter
socket (12 V DC)
to 12 V DC
(power supply)
White: +
Black: _
Transceiver
to
[DC IN]

14
FREQUENCY AND CHANNEL SETTING
4
■Main band selection
The IC-91A/91AD has two independent operating bands; A
band (VFO A) and B band (VFO B). A band (VFO A) can operate
0.495 MHz to 999.990 MHz*, and B band (VFO B) can operate
118 MHz to 174 MHz and 350 MHz to 470 MHz.
*Some frequency ranges are blocked for the USA version by regula-
tion.
NOTE: When in dualwatch mode, transmission is available
from the MAIN band only.
DDHow to change the main band
➥Push [MAIN/DUAL] to toggle between A and B band.
➥Push and hold [MAIN/DUAL] for 1 sec. to turn the dual-
watch operation ON and OFF.
• While in dualwatch operation, the display indicates A band in the
upper half and B band in the lower half.
➥During dualwatch operation, push [MAIN/DUAL] to select
A band or B band as the main operating band alternately.
DTCS
DTCS
W PS
EM
W PS
FMFM
PRIO
PRIO
+DUP+DUP
+DUP+DUP
FM
146010
440000
25
50
µ
000000
µ
000000
DTCS
DTCS
W PS
EMEM
W PS
FMFM
PRIO
PRIO
+DUP+DUP
+DUP+DUP
FM
146010
440000
25
50
µ
000000
µ
000000
A
MemoName
µ
PRIOPRIO WXWX EMREMR
DTCSDTCS
FMFM
LOWLOW
ATTATT
146010
PSKIPSKIP
+DUP+DUP
2525
000
MemoName
µ
PRIOPRIO WXWX EMREMR
DTCSDTCS
FMFM
B
LOWLOW
ATTATT
440000
PSKIPSKIP
+DUP+DUP
2525
000
Push Push
• Selecting A band • Selecting upper side as main band
• Selecting lower side as main band
• Selecting B band
Push
DTCS
DTCS
W PS
EM
W PS
FM
PRIO
PRIO
+DUP
+DUP
FM
146 010
440 000
25
50
µ
000
µ
000
DTCS
DTCS
W PS
EM
W PS
FM
PRIO
PRIO
+DUP
+DUP
FM
146 010
440 000
25
50
µ
000
µ
000
A
MemoName
µ
PRIO WX EMR
DTCS
FM
LOW
ATT
146010
P SKIP
+DUP
25
000
MemoName
µ
PRIO WX EMR
DTCS
FM
B
LOW
ATT
440000
P SKIP
+DUP
25
000
Single band operation Dualwatch operation
for 1 sec.