Icom IC-M603 User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
New2001
iM603
VHF MARINE TRANSCEIVER
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i
New2001
FOREWORD
Thank you for purchasing this Icom transceiver. The IC-M603
VHF MARINE TRANSCEIVER is designed and built with Icom’s
state of the art technology and craftsmanship. With proper
care, this transceiver should provide you with years of trou-
ble-free operation.
We want to take a couple of moments of your time to thank
you for making the IC-M603 your radio of choice, and hope
you agree with Icom’s philosophy of “technology first.” Many
hours of research and development went into the design of
your IC-M603.
D FEATURES
❍Built-in DSC meets ITU Class D requirement
❍Rugged waterproof construction
❍Large LCD with dot matrix characters
❍Front and rear panel microphone connection
❍Optional COMMANDMICIII™ (HM-162E) are
available and up to two COMMANDMICIII™s
can be connected
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-M603.
EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS
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.
CLEAN THE TRANSCEIVER AND MICROPHONE THOR-
OUGHLY WITH FRESH WATER after exposure to water
including salt, otherwise, the keys and switch may become
inoperable due to salt crystallization.
Icom, Icom Inc. and the logo are registered trademarks of Icom Incor-
porated (Japan) in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France,
Spain, Russia and/or other countries.
COMMANDMIC is a registered trademark of Icom Incorporated (Japan) in the
United States.
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ii
New2001
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
If your vessel requires assistance, contact other vessels and
the Coast Guard by sending a Distress call on Channel 16.
Or, transmit your Distress call using digital selective calling
on Channel 70.
INSTALLATION NOTE
The installation of this equipment should be made in such a
manner as to respect the EC recommended electromagnetic
field exposure limits (1999/519/EC).
The maximum RF power available from this device is 25
watts. The antenna should be installed as high as possible
for maximum efficiency and that this installation height should
be at least 5 meters above ground (or accessible) level. In the
case where an antenna cannot be installed at a reasonable
height, then the transmitter should neither be continuously
operated for long periods if any person is within 5 meters of
the antenna, nor operated at all if any person is touching the
antenna.
In all cases any possible risk depends on the transmitter
being activated for long periods. (actual recommendation lim-
its are specified as an average of 6 minutes) Normally the
transmitter is not active for long periods of time. Some radio li-
censes will require that a timer circuit automatically cuts the
transmitter after 1–2 minutes etc.
Similarly some types of transmitter, SSB, CW, AM, etc. have a
lower ‘average’ output power and the perceived risk is even
lower.
USING DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING (Ch 70)
DISTRESS CALL PROCEDURE
1. While lifting up the key cover, push and hold
[DISTRESS] for 5 sec. until you hear 5 short beeps
change to one long beep.
2. Wait for an acknowledgment on Channel 70 from a coast
station.
• After the acknowledgement is received, Channel 16 is auto-
matically selected.
3. Push and hold [PTT], then transmit the appropriate
information as listed above.
USING CHANNEL 16
DISTRESS CALL PROCEDURE
1. “MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY.”
2. “THIS IS ...............” (name of vessel).
3. Say your call sign or other indication of the vessel (AND
9-digit DSC ID if you have one).
4. “LOCATED AT ...............” (your position).
5. State the nature of the distress and assistance required.
6. Give any other information which might facilitate the
rescue.
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iii
New2001
DOC
CE versions of the IC-M603 which display the
“CE” symbol on the serial number seal, comply
with the essential requirements of the Euro-
pean Radio and Telecommunication Terminal
Directive 1999/5/EC.
This warning symbol indicates that this equip-
ment operates in non-harmonised frequency
bands and/or may be subject to licensing condi-
tions 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 301 025-2 V1.2.1 (2004-09)
ii) EN 301 025-3 V1.2.1 (2004-09)
iii) EN 60945 2002
iv) EN 60950-1 2001
v) EN 300 698-2 V1.1.1 ( 2000-08)
vi) EN 300 698-3 V1.1.1 ( 2001-05)
Type-designation: iM603
Signature
Declare on our sole responsibility that this equipment complies with 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.
Version (where applicable):
0560
Authorized representative name
Place and date of issue
1st Jul. 2006
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New2001
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
FOREWORD ................................................................................... i
IMPORTANT .................................................................................... i
EXPLICIT DEFINITIONS ................................................................. i
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY ........................................................... ii
INSTALLATION NOTE .................................................................... ii
DOC ............................................................................................... iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................. iv
PRECAUTIONS ............................................................................. v
1 OPERATING RULES ................................................................ 1
2 PANEL DESCRIPTION ....................................................... 2 – 6
■Panel description ................................................................... 2
■Function display .................................................................... 4
■Microphone ............................................................................ 6
3 BASIC OPERATION ......................................................... 7 – 12
■Channel selection .................................................................. 7
■Receiving and transmitting .................................................... 9
■Call channel programming .................................................. 10
■Microphone lock function ..................................................... 10
■Display backlight ................................................................. 10
■Channel comments .............................................................. 11
■AquaQuake water draining function ..................................... 11
■Optional Voice scrambler operation .................................... 12
4 DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH ..................................................... 13
■Description .......................................................................... 13
■Operation ............................................................................. 13
5 SCAN OPERATION ........................................................ 14 – 15
■Scan types ........................................................................... 14
■Setting TAG channels .......................................................... 15
■Starting a scan .................................................................... 15
6 DSC OPERATION ........................................................... 16 – 38
■MMSI code programming .................................................... 16
■DSC address ID .................................................................. 16
■Position and Time programming .......................................... 18
■Position and Time indication ................................................ 19
■GPS information indication .................................................. 19
■Distress call ......................................................................... 20
■Transmitting DSC calls ........................................................ 23
■Receiving DSC calls ............................................................ 32
■Received messages ............................................................ 36
■DSC Set mode .................................................................... 37
7 OTHER FUNCTIONS ........................................................ 39–42
■Intercom operation .............................................................. 39
■Hailer operation ................................................................... 40
■Automatic foghorn ............................................................... 41
■RX speaker function ............................................................ 42
8 SET MODE ...................................................................... 43 – 45
■Set mode programming ....................................................... 43
■Set mode items ................................................................... 43
9 CONNECTIONS AND MAINTENANCE .......................... 46 – 53
■Connections ........................................................................ 46
■Antenna ............................................................................... 47
■Fuse replacement ................................................................ 47
■Supplied accessories .......................................................... 47
■Microphone hanger ............................................................. 47
■Mounting the transceiver ..................................................... 48
■MB-75 installation ................................................................ 49
■Optional unit installation ...................................................... 50
■HM-162E installation ........................................................... 51
10 TROUBLESHOOTING............................................................. 53
11 SPECIFICATIONS AND OPTIONS ................................. 54 – 55
■Specifications ....................................................................... 54
■Options ................................................................................. 55
12 CHANNEL LIST .............................................................. 56 – 57
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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New2001
RWARNING! NEVER connect the transceiver to an AC
outlet. This may pose a fire hazard or result in an electric
shock.
NEVER connect the transceiver to a power source of more
than 16 V DC or use reverse polarity. This will ruin the trans-
ceiver.
NEVER cut the DC power cable between the DC plug and
fuse holder. If an incorrect connection is made after cutting,
the transceiver may be damaged.
NEVER place the transceiver where normal operation of the
vessel may be hindered or where it could cause bodily injury.
KEEP the transceiver at least 1 m away from the ship’s nav-
igation compass.
DO NOT use or place the transceiver in areas with temper-
atures below –20°C or above +60°C or, in areas subject to di-
rect sunlight, such as the dashboard.
AVOID the use of chemical agents such as benzine or al-
cohol when cleaning, as they may damage the transceiver
surfaces. If the transceiver becomes dusty or dirty, wipe it
clean with a soft, dry cloth.
BE CAREFUL! The transceiver rear panel will become
hot when operating continuously for long periods.
Place the transceiver in a secure place to avoid inadvertent
use by children.
BE CAREFUL! The transceiver and the optional HM-
162E*
COMMANDMICIII ™ employ waterproof construction,
which correspond to IPX7 (transceiver) and IPX8 (HM-162E)
respectively, of the international standard IEC 60529 (2001).
However, once the transceiver or microphone has been
dropped, waterproofing cannot be guaranteed due to the fact
that the case may be cracked, or the waterproof seal dam-
aged, etc.
PRECAUTIONS
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1
OPERATING RULES
1
DDPRIORITIES
• 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 signals are prohibited and pun-
ishable by law.
DDPRIVACY
• Information overheard but not intended for you cannot law-
fully be used in any way.
• Indecent or profane language is prohibited.
DDRADIO LICENSES
(1) SHIP STATION LICENSE
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 application. This
government-issued license states 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 or kept with the operator. Only a licensed radio opera-
tor 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.
Keep a copy of the current government rules and regulations
handy.
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PANEL DESCRIPTION
New2001New2001
2
■Panel description
qCLEAR KEY [CLR]
Push to cancel the entered function, exit Set mode. (p. 43)
wFUNCTION KEY [F]
After pushing this key, some keys perform secondary func-
tion.
•“F” appears when a secondary function can be accessed.
eDISTRESS KEY [DISTRESS] (pgs. 20, 22)
Push and hold for 5 sec. to transmit a Distress call.
rDSC MENU KEY [MENU] (p. 16)
Push to toggle the DSC menu ON or OFF.
tPOWER KEY [POWER] (p. 9)
➥Push to turn power ON.
➥Push and hold for 1 sec. to turn power OFF.
yCHANNEL 16/CALL CHANNEL KEY [!6•C]
➥Push to select Channel 16. (p. 7)
➥Push and hold for 1 sec. to select call channel. (p. 7)
•“
CCAALLLL” appears when call channel is selected.
➥Push and hold for 3 sec. to enter call channel program-
ming condition when call channel is selected. (p. 10)
➥While pushing and holding [H/L], push to enter channel
comments programming condition. (p. 11)
➥While turning power ON, push to enter Set mode. (p. 43)
uSELECTOR DIAL [SELECTOR] (pgs. 7–9)
Rotate to select the operating channels, set mode con-
tents, etc.
iDIAL KEY [DIAL]
➥Selects to the regular channel. (p. 8)
➥While pushing and holding [H/L], push to select one of
three channel groups in sequence. (p. 8)
• EUR version has International channels only and this function
is not available.
oSQUELCH CONTROL [SQL] (p. 9)
Rotate to set the squelch threshold level.
VOL
iM603
VHF MARINE
MIC
C
H/L DIAL
16
SQL
DISTRESS
Speaker Function display (p. 4) !3
q!2 tyui!1 !0 ore
w
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2
PANEL DESCRIPTION
2
New2001
!0 TRANSMIT POWER KEY [H/L]
➥Push to toggle the output power high or low. (p. 9)
• Some channels are set to low power only.
➥While pushing and holding this key, some keys perform
secondary functions.
!1 VOLUME CONTROL [VOL] (p. 9)
Rotate to adjust the audio level.
!2 MIC CONNECTOR
Connect the supplied microphone only.
CAUTION: NEVER connect other microphone here,
such as the optional COMMANDMICIII™. It may cause
damage to the transceiver.
!3 KEYPAD
➥Inputs numeral for channel number input, etc.
• After inputting the desired channel number, push [ENT].
• Push and hold [0•A]to input ‘A’ for simplex channels.
➥Inputs numeral, alphabet and some symbols for chan-
nel comment input.
➥After pushing [F], push to perform the secondary function.
• Most of secondary function (except TAG channel setting, RX
speaker and Auto foghorn functions) can be cleared or can-
celled when [CLR] is pushed.
➥Number input: ‘1’
➥Comment input: ‘1,’ ‘Q,’ ‘Z,’ ‘q,’ ‘z’ or space
➥After pushing [F], push to turn the Dualwatch
function ON or OFF. (p. 13)
➥Number input: ‘2’
➥Comment input: ‘2,’ ‘A,’ ‘B,’ ‘C’ ‘a,’ ‘b’ or ‘c’
➥After pushing [F], push to turn the Tri-watch
function ON or OFF. (p. 13)
➥Number input: ‘3’
➥Comment input: ‘3,’ ‘D,’ ‘E,’ ‘F,’ ‘d,’ ‘e’ or ‘f’
➥After pushing [F], push this key then rotate
[SELECTOR] to adjust the brightness of the
LCD and key backlight. (p. 10)
➥Number input: ‘4’
➥Comment input: ‘4,’ ‘G,’ ‘H,’ ‘I,’ ‘g,’ ‘h’ or ‘i’
➥After pushing [F], push to start or stop the scan
function. (p. 15)
➥Number input: ‘5’
➥Comment input: ‘5,’ ‘J,’ ‘K,’ ‘L,’ ‘j,’ ‘k’ or ‘l’
➥After pushing [F], push to set the displayed
channel as a TAG channel. (p. 15)
➥While pushing and holding [H/L], push for 3 sec.
to clear or set all TAG channels. (p. 15)
➥Number input: ‘6’
➥Comment input: ‘6,’ ‘M,’ ‘N,’ ‘O,’ ‘m,’ ‘n’ or ‘o’
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4
2PANEL DESCRIPTION
New2001
➥Number input: ‘7’
➥Comment input: ‘7,’ ‘P,’ ‘R,’ ‘S,’ ‘p,’ ‘r’ or ‘s’
➥After pushing [F], push to turn the Hailer func-
tion ON or OFF. (p. 40)
➥After pushing [F], push and hold for 1 sec. to
turn the RX speaker function ON or OFF. (p. 42)
➥Number input: ‘8’
➥Comment input: ‘8,’ ‘T,’ ‘U,’ ‘V,’ ‘t,’ ‘u’ or ‘v’
➥After pushing [F], push to turn the Automatic
foghorn function ON or OFF. (p. 42)
➥Number input: ‘9’
➥Comment input: ‘9,’ ‘W,’ ‘X,’ ‘Y,’ ‘w,’ ‘x’ or ‘y’
➥After pushing [F], push to turn the Intercom
function ON or OFF. (p. 39)
➥Number input: ‘0’
➥Number input: Push and hold for 1 sec. to edit
‘A’ for simplex channel.
➥Comment input: ‘0’ and symbols (‘–’ ‘/’ ‘.’)
➥After pushing [F], push to activate an optional
Voice scrambler function. (p. 12)
• The optional Voice Scrambler function cannot be
used on Channel 16 and 70.
➥Push to enter the input channel comment, se-
lected item, etc.
➥Push to clear the entered data.
■Function display
qRX SPEAKER INDICATOR (p. 42)
Appears during the RX speaker mode.
wPOWER INDICATOR (p. 9)
➥“2255WW” appears when high power is selected.
➥“11WW” appears when low power is selected.
eTAG CHANNEL INDICATOR (p. 15)
Appears when a TAG channel is selected.
rDUPLEX INDICATOR (p. 8)
Appears when a duplex channel is selected.
BUSY 25W INT CALL
RX DUP
SCRAM TAG
NORMAL SCAN
-34°34.506N
123°23.236W
UTC 1:10 CALLING
qwert y
!4
!3
!1
!0
!2 i
u
o
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2
PANEL DESCRIPTION
New2001
2
tCHANNEL GROUP INDICATOR (p. 8)
Indicates whether an International “IINNTT,” U.S.A. “UUSSAA,”
DSC “DDSSCC” or ATIS “AATTIISS” channel is in use. (Depends
on version)
yCALL CHANNEL INDICATOR (pgs. 7, 10)
Appears when the call channel is selected.
uLOW BATTERY INDICATOR
Blinks when the battery voltage drops to approx. 10 V DC
or below.
iCHANNEL NUMBER READOUT
Indicates the selected operating channel number.
oCHANNEL COMMENT INDICATOR
Channel comment appears if programmed. (p. 11)
!0 TIME ZONE INDICATOR
➥Shows the current time data when a GPS receiver is
connected.
•“
????” may blink every 2 sec. instead of current time data when
the GPS current time data is invalid.
•“
????” may blink every 2 sec. instead of current time data 4
hours after the time data is input manually, up until 23.5 hours
have past.
➥“LLccaall” appears when the offset time data is set.
(p. 38)
➥“NN TTiimmee” appears when no GPS receiver is con-
nected and no time data is input manually.
!1 POSITION INDICATOR
➥Shows the GPS position data.
•“
????” may blink every 2 sec. instead of position data when the
GPS position data is invalid. In such a case, the last position
data is held for up to 23.5 hours.
•“
????” may blink every 2 sec. instead of position data 4 hours
after the position data is input manually, up until 23.5 hours
have past.
➥“NN PPssiittiinn” appears when no GPS receiver is
connected and no position data is input manually.
!2 SCAN INDICATOR
➥“PPRRII--SSCCAANN 1166” appears during Priority scan;
“NNOORRMMAALL SSCCAANN” appears during Normal scan. (p. 15)
➥“DDUUAALL 1166” appears during Dualwatch; “TTRRII 1166” ap-
pears during Tri-watch. (p. 13)
!3 SCRAMBLER INDICATOR (p. 12)
Appears when the voice scrambler function is activated.
(only when the optional scrambler unit is installed.)
!4 BUSY/TRANSMIT INDICATOR (p. 9)
➥“BBUUSSYY” appears when receiving a signal or when the
squelch opens.
➥“TTXX” appears while transmitting.
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6
2PANEL DESCRIPTION
New2001
■Microphone
qPTT SWITCH [PTT]
Push and hold to transmit; release to receive. (p. 9)
wCHANNEL UP/DOWN KEYS [YY]/[ZZ]
➥Push either key to change the operating channels, Set
mode settings, etc. (pgs. 7–9, 43)
➥Checks TAG channels, changes scanning direction or
resumes the scan manually during scan. (p. 15)
eTRANSMIT POWER KEY [HI/LO]
➥Push to toggle the power high and low. (p. 9)
• Some channels are set to low power only.
➥While pushing and holding [HI/LO], turn power ON to
toggle the Microphone lock function ON and OFF.
(p. 10)
Speaker
Microphone
q
e
w
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7
3
BASIC OPERATION
2
3
■Channel selection
DDChannel 16
Channel 16 is the distress and safety channel. It is used for
establishing initial contact with a station and for emergency
communications. Channel 16 is monitored during both Dual-
watch and Tri-watch. While standing by, you must monitor
Channel 16.
➥Push [!6•C] momentarily to select Channel 16.
➥Push [DIAL] to return to the condition before selecting Chan-
nel 16, or rotate [SELECTOR] to select a channel.
• Pushing the keypad or [YY]/[ZZ]on the microphone also selects a
channel.
Convenient!
When the Favorite channel function is turned ON (p. 45),
[Y]/[Z]keys on the microphone select the favorite channels
in the selected channel group in sequence when pushed.
• The favorite channels are set by the TAG channel setting. (p. 15)
DDCall channel
Each regular channel group has a separate leisure-use call
channel. The call channel is monitored during Tri-watch. The
call channels can be programmed (p. 10) and are used to
store your most often used channel in each channel group for
quick recall.
➥Push and hold [!6•C] for 1 sec. to select the call channel of
the selected channel group.
•“
CCAALLLL” and call channel number appear.
• Each channel group may have an independent call channel after
programming a call channel. (p. 10)
➥Push [DIAL] to return to the condition before selecting call
channel, or rotate [SELECTOR] to select a channel.
• Pushing the keypad or [YY]/[ZZ]on the microphone also selects a
channel.
25W25W INTINT CALLCALL
TAGTAG
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 CALLINGCALLING
Push
for 1 sec.
C
16
25W25W INTINT
TAGTAG
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 CALLINGCALLING
Push
C
16
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8
3BASIC OPERATION
New2001
ïïInternational channels
There are pre-programmed 57 international channels for the
IC-M603.
qPush [DIAL] to select a regular channel.
wWhile pushing and holding [H/L], push [DIAL] to change
the channel group, if necessary.
•“
IINNTT” appears when International channel is selected.
eRotate [SELECTOR] to select a channel.
•“
DDUUPP” appears for duplex channels.
• Pushing the keypad or [YY]/[ZZ]on the microphone also selects a
channel.
ïïU.S.A. channels (U.K. version only)
For U.K. version, there are pre-programmed 61 U.S.A. chan-
nels in addition to 59 International channels.
qPush [DIAL] to select a regular channel.
wWhile pushing and holding [H/L], push [DIAL] to change
the channel group, if necessary.
• International and U.S.A. channels can be selected in sequence.
eRotate [SELECTOR] to select a channel.
•“
DDUUPP” appears for duplex channels.
• Pushing the keypad or [YY]/[ZZ]on the microphone also selects a
channel.
ïïATIS and DSC channels (Holland and FRG versions only)
For Holland and FRG version, there are pre-programmed 57
ATIS and 57 DSC* channels in addition to 58 (Holland version)
or 56 (FRG version) International channels.
*FRG version only
qPush [DIAL] to select a regular channel.
wWhile pushing and holding [H/L], push [DIAL] to change
the channel group, if necessary.
• International, ATIS and DSC channels can be selected in sequence.
eRotate [SELECTOR] to select a channel.
•“
DDUUPP” appears for duplex channels.
• Pushing the keypad or [YY]/[ZZ]on the microphone also selects a
channel.
25W25W DSCDSC
TAGTAG
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 CALLINGCALLING
1W1W ATISATIS
COMMERCIALCOMMERCIAL
ATIS channel DSC channel
Push +
H/L
DIAL
25W25W USAUSA
DUPDUP
TAGTAG
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 PORTPORT OPROPR
Push +
H/L
DIAL
25W25W INTINT
DUPDUP
TAGTAG
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 PORTPORT OPROPR
Push +
H/L
DIAL
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9
3
BASIC OPERATION
New2001
3
■Receiving and transmitting
CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna will damage
the transceiver.
qPush [POWER] to turn power ON.
wSet the audio and squelch levels.
➥Rotate [SQL] fully counterclockwise in advance.
➥Rotate [VOL] to adjust the audio output level.
➥Rotate [SQL] clockwise until the noise disappears.
eWhile pushing and holding [H/L], push [DIAL] several
times to change the channel group. (p. 8)
rRotate [SELECTOR] to select a channel. (pgs. 6, 7, 57)
• Pushing the keypad or [YY]/[ZZ]on the microphone also selects a
channel.
• When receiving a signal, “BBUUSSYY” appears and audio is emitted
from the speaker.
• Further adjustment of [VOL] may be necessary.
tPush [H/L] to select the output power if necessary.
•“
2255WW” or “11WW” appears when high or low power is selected, re-
spectively.
• Choose low power for short range communications, choose high
power for longer distance communications.
• Some channels are for low power only.
yPush and hold [PTT] to transmit, then speak into the mi-
crophone.
•“
TTXX” appears.
• Channel 70 cannot be used for transmission other than DSC.
uRelease [PTT] to receive.
IMPORTANT: To maximize the readability of your trans-
mitted signal, pause a few sec. after pushing [PTT], hold
the microphone 5 to 10 cm from your mouth and speak at
a normal voice level.
✔NOTE for TOT (Time-out Timer) function
The TOT function inhibits continuous transmission over a pre-
set time period after the transmission starts.
A beep sounds 10 sec. before the TOT function activates, to
indicate the transmission will be shut down and “TTOOTT” ap-
pears on the channel comment indicator. Transmission is not
possible for 10 sec. after this transmission shut down.
VOL
iM603
VHF MARINE
MIC
C
16
SQL
Microphone
w
eeyu
qrrte
tr
!IC-M603.qxd 06.7.28 1:46 PM Page 9 (1,1)

10
3BASIC OPERATION
New2001
■Call channel programming
You can program the call channel with your most often-used
channels in each channel group for quick recall.
qWhile pushing and holding [H/L], push [DIAL] several
times to select the desired channel group (INT, USA, ATIS
or DSC) to be programmed.
wPush and hold [!6•C] for 1 sec. to select the call channel of
the selected channel group.
•“
CCAALLLL” and call channel number appear.
ePush and hold [!6•C] again
for 3 sec. (until a long beep
changes to 2 short beeps)
to enter call channel pro-
gramming condition.
• Channel number starts blink-
ing.
rRotate [SELECTOR] to se-
lect the desired channel.
tPush [!6•C] to program the
displayed channel as the
call channel.
• Push [CLR] to cancel.
• The channel number stops
blinking.
■Microphone lock function
The Microphone lock function electrically locks [Y]/[Z]and
[HI/LO] keys on the supplied microphone. This prevents ac-
cidental channel changes and function access.
➥While pushing and holding [HI/LO] on the microphone,
turn power ON to toggle the Microphone lock function ON
and OFF.
■Display backlight
The function display and keys can be backlit for better visibil-
ity under low light conditions.
➥After pushing [F], push [3•]then rotate [SELECTOR]
to adjust the brightness of the LCD and key backlight.
Then push [ENT].
• The backlight is adjustable in 7 levels and OFF.
DIM
[HI/LO]
[Y]/[Z]
25W25W INTINT CALLCALL
TAGTAG
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 CALLINGCALLING
25W25W INTINT CALLCALL
DUPDUP
TAGTAG
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 INTLINTL
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11
3
BASIC OPERATION
New2001
3
■Channel comments
Memory channels can be labeled with a unique alphanumeric
ID of up to 10 characters each.
Capital letters, small letters, 0 to 9, some symbols (--..//)
and space can be used.
qSelect the desired channel.
• Cancel Dualwatch, Tri-watch or Scan in advance.
wWhile pushing and holding [H/L], push [!6•C] to edit the
channel comment.
• A cursor and the first charac-
ter start blinking alternately.
ePush the appropriate key several times to enter the de-
sired character.
• See the table at right for available characters.
• Rotate [SELECTOR] or push [YY]/[ZZ]on the microphone to
move the cursor.
• Push [CE] to clear the channel comment.
• Push [CLR] to cancel and exit the condition.
rPush [ENT] to input and set the comment.
• The cursor and the character stop blinking.
tRepeat steps qto rto program other channel com-
ments, if desired.
•Available characters
■ AquaQuake water draining function
The IC-M603 uses a new technology to clear water away
from the speaker grill: AquaQuake. AquaQuake helps drain
water away from the speaker housing (water that might oth-
erwise muffle the sound coming from the speaker). The IC-
M603 emits a vibrating noise when this function is being
used.
➥While pushing and holding [H/L], turn power ON.
• A low beep tone sounds while [H/L] key is pushed and held to
drain water, regardless of [VOL] control setting.
• The transceiver never accepts a key operation while the
AquaQuake function is activated.
While pushing and holding [PTT] on the optional HM-162E,
turn power ON to clear water away from the HM-162E.
KEY CHARACTERSKEY CHARACTERS
1 Q Z q z (space)
2 A B C a b c
3 D E F d e f
4 G H I g h i
5 J K L j k l
6 M N O m n
7 P R S p r s
8 T U V t u v
9 W X Y w x y
0 - / .
25W25W INTINT
TAGTAG
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00PLEASURE__PLEASURE__
!IC-M603.qxd 06.7.28 1:46 PM Page 11 (1,1)

12
3BASIC OPERATION
New2001
■Optional Voice scrambler operation
DDActivating the scrambler function
The optional Voice scrambler provides private communica-
tions. In order to receive or send scrambled transmissions you
must first activate the scrambler function. To activate the func-
tion, an optional scrambler unit is necessary. See pgs. 45 and
50 for setting the scrambler unit. Ask your dealer for details.
The scrambler function automatically turns OFF when
Channel 16 or 70 is selected.
qRotate [SELECTOR] to select the desired channel other
than Channel 16 and 70.
wPush [F], then push [0] to turn the Voice scrambler func-
tion ON.
•“
SSCCRRAAMM” appears.
eTo turn the scrambler function OFF, repeat step w.
•“
SSCCRRAAMM” disappears.
DDProgramming scrambler codes
There are 32 codes (1 to 32) or 128 codes (0 to 127)* avail-
able for programming when an optional scrambler unit is in-
stalled. In order to understand one another, all transceivers
in your group must have the same scramble code. This func-
tion may not be available depending on dealer setting.
*Depends on the installed scrambler unit.
qWhile pushing and holding [!6•C], push [POWER] to enter
Set mode.
• Turn power OFF in advance.
wAfter the display appears, release [!6•C].
eRotate [SELECTOR] to select the “SSccrraammbblleerr CCddee,”
push [ENT].
rRotate [SELECTOR] to select the desired scrambler code.
tPush [ENT] to set and exit the scrambler code item.
yPush [CLR], or rotate [SELECTOR] to select “EExxiitt,”
then push [ENT] to exit Set mode.
--Set M de--
Scrambler C de
˘5 ≤
4
3
2
≥
<ENT˘OK>
--Set M de--
Beep ≤
Internal Speaker
C ntrast
F gh rn Frequency
Radi P wer
Scrambler Type
˘Scrambler C de ≥
--Set M de--
˘Scan TypeType
Scan Timer
Beep
InternalInternal Speaker
C ntrastC ntrast
F gh rn Frequency
Radi P wer ≥
Select
Select
to enter
Set mode
POWER
+
Push
9
16
to select item.
Rotate
to select code.
Rotate
Push Push
[Example]: Programming scrambler code 8.
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13
4
DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH
3
4
■Description
Dualwatch monitors Channel 16 while you are receiving
on another channel; Tri-watch monitors Channel 16 and the
call channel while receiving another channel. Dualwatch/Tri-
watch is convenient for monitoring Channel 16 when you are
operating on another channel.
■Operation
qSelect the desired channel.
wPush [F], then push [1•]to start Dualwatch or
[2•] to start Tri-watch.
•“
DDUUAALL 1166” appears during Dualwatch; “TTRRII 1166” appears dur-
ing Tri-watch.
• A beep tone sounds when a signal is received on Channel 16.
eTo cancel Dualwatch or Tri-watch, push [CLR] or repeat
step w.
TRI
DUAL
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/Tri-
watch, push and hold [PTT].
Dualwatch Tri-watch
Call channel
[Example]: Operating Tri-watch on INT Channel 25
25W25W INTINT
DUPDUP
TAGTAG
TRITRI 1616
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 TELEPHONETELEPHONE
BUSYBUSY 25W25W INTINT CALLCALL
DUPDUP
TAGTAG
TRITRI 1616
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 INTLINTL
Tri-watch starts. Signal is received on call
channel.
BUSYBUSY 25W25W INTINT
DUPDUP
TAGTAG
TRITRI 1616
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 TELEPHONETELEPHONE
Signal received on Channel
16 takes priority.
25W25W INTINT
DUPDUP
TAGTAG
TRITRI 1616
3434°34.506N34.506N
123123°23.236W23.236W
UTCUTC 1212:00:00 TELEPHONETELEPHONE
Tri-watch resumes after the
signal disappears.
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14
SCAN OPERATION
New2001New2001
5
■Scan types
Scanning is an efficient way to locate signals quickly over a
wide frequency range. The transceiver has Priority scan and
Normal scan.
Set the TAG channels (scanned channel) before scanning.
Clear the TAG channels which inconveniently stop scanning,
such as those for digital communication use. (Refer to the
right page for details.)
Choose Priority or Normal scan in Set mode. (p. 43)
NORMAL SCAN
Normal scan, like priority scan, searches through all TAG
channels in sequence. However, unlike priority scan, Chan-
nel 16 is not checked unless Channel 16 is set as a TAG
channel.
CH 01 CH 02
CH 06
CH 05 CH 04
CH 03
PRIORITY SCAN
Priority scan searches through all TAG channels in se-
quence while monitoring Channel 16. When a signal is de-
tected on Channel 16, scan pauses until the signal disap-
pears; when a signal is detected on a channel other than
Channel 16, scan becomes Dualwatch until the signal dis-
appears.
CH 06
CH 01
CH 16
CH 02
CH 05 CH 04
CH 03
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