Icom ID-52A Installation guide

BASIC MANUAL
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that
this device does not cause harmful interference.
VHF/UHF TRANSCEIVER
ID-52A
ID-52E
WARNING: MODIFICATION OF THIS DEVICE
TO RECEIVE CELLULAR RADIOTELEPHONE
SERVICE SIGNALS IS PROHIBITED UNDER
FCC RULES AND FEDERAL LAW.

i
BASIC MANUAL
Thank you for choosing this Icom product. This product is designed and built with Icom’s
state of the art technology and craftsmanship. With proper care, this product should
provide you with years of trouble-free operation.
This product combines traditional analog technologies with Digital Smart Technologies for
Amateur Radio (D-STAR), for a balanced package.
■Important
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS carefully and completely before using the transceiver.
SAVE THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL— This instruction manual contains basic operating
instructions for the ID-52A/ID-52E. For advanced operating instructions, see the
Advanced manual for details.
The Advanced manual can be downloaded from the following internet address:
https://www.icomjapan.com/support/
■Features
zD-STAR operation
The ID-52A/ID-52E has the D-STAR Repeater (DR) function.
zThe Dualwatch function can simultaneously receive and record two di󰀨erent bands or
modes.
zA built-in GPS receiver to check your current location.
zThe Voice recorder records your QSO conversation, voice audio for TX, and
microphone voice audio.
zA microSD card slot that can accept di󰀨erent cards to backup settings, various
memories, the GPS log, and so on.
zA USB connector for data transmission or battery charging.
zThe Bluetooth®function that can connect to Bluetooth®devices, such as the VS-3.
■Explicit denitions
WORD DEFINITION
RDANGER! Personal death, serious injury or an explosion may occur.
RWARNING! Personal injury, re hazard or electric shock may occur.
CAUTION Equipment damage may occur.
NOTE If disregarded, inconvenience only. No risk of personal injury, re or
electric shock.
Icom is not responsible for the destruction, damage to, or performance of any Icom or
non-Icom equipment, if the malfunction is because of:
• Force majeure, including, but not limited to, res, earthquakes, storms, oods,
lightning, or other natural disasters, disturbances, riots, war, or radioactive
contamination.
• The use of Icom transceivers with any equipment that is not manufactured or approved
by Icom.
About weld lines
This product’s surfaces may have streaks called “weld lines,” that occur during the
molding process, and are not cracks or aws.

ii
BASIC MANUAL
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
■Supplied Accessories
Antenna
Hand strap
Belt clip
Battery pack
Battery charger
NOTE: Some accessories are not supplied, or the
shape is di󰀨erent, depending on the receiver version.
■Voice Coding Technology
The AMBE+2™ voice coding Technology embodied in this product is protected by
intellectual property rights including patent rights, copyrights and trade secrets of Digital
Voice Systems, Inc. This voice coding Technology is licensed solely for use within this
Communications Equipment.
The user of this Technology is explicitly prohibited from attempting to extract, remove,
decompile, reverse engineer, or disassemble the Object Code, or in any other way
convert the Object Code into a human-readable form.
U.S. Patent Nos.
#8,595,002, #8,359,197, #8,315,860, #8,200,497, #7,970,606, #6,912,495 B2.
■Trademarks
Icom, Icom Inc. and the Icom logo are registered trademarks of Icom Incorporated
(Japan) in Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain,
Russia, Australia, New Zealand, and/or other countries.
The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG,
Inc. and any use of such marks by Icom inc. is under license. Other trademarks and trade
names are those of their respective owners.
Adobe, Acrobat, and Reader are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe
Systems Incorporated in the United States and/or other countries.
AMBE+2 is a trademark and property of Digital Voice Systems Inc.
All other products or brands are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective
holders.
This software is based in part on the work of the Independent JPEG Group, and is licensed
according to the open source software license.

iii
BASIC MANUAL
■Table of contents
■Important......................................... i
■Features.......................................... i
■Explicit denitions............................ i
■Supplied Accessories......................ii
■Voice Coding Technology................ii
■Trademarks .....................................ii
■Table of contents............................iii
■About the ID-52A/ID-52E manuals. v
■Important Notes..............................vi
DWhen using the GPS receiver .......vi
DElectromagnetic Interference.........vi
DSpurious signals ............................vi
DAbout charging with the power ONvi
■Unique functions ...........................vii
■Precaution......................................ix
■Battery cautions .............................xi
DBattery caution...............................xi
DCharging caution ..........................xii
1 PANEL DESCRIPTION���������������������� 1
■Front, top, and side panels............. 1
■Function display ............................. 3
2 INITIAL SETUP���������������������������������� 5
■Attaching the Battery pack ............. 5
■Charging the battery pack.............. 6
DCapacity of the battery pack.......... 6
■Inserting a microSD card................ 7
■Turning ON the transceiver ............ 7
■Adjusting the audio level ................ 7
■Saving the setting data onto a
microSD card................................. 8
DFormatting a microSD card............ 8
DSaving the setting data.................. 9
■Conrming the GPS is receiving
signals ......................................... 10
3 BASIC OPERATION ������������������������ 11
■Receiving ..................................... 11
■Dualwatch operation .................... 11
DTurning Dualwatch ON or OFF.... 11
DMAIN band selection ................... 11
■Monitor function............................ 12
■Setting a squelch level ................. 12
■Quick Menu window..................... 13
DQuick Menu window operation .... 13
■Selecting the Frequency
Selecting mode............................ 14
DVFO mode ................................... 14
DMemory mode.............................. 14
DCall Channel mode...................... 14
DWeather Channel mode
(For only the ID-52A)................... 14
■DR function operation .................. 14
■Selecting the operating band ....... 15
■Selecting the operating mode ...... 15
■Setting a frequency ...................... 16
DSelecting a tuning step ................ 16
DSelecting the 1 MHz tuning.......... 16
■Attenuator..................................... 16
■Scan operation............................. 17
■Speech function ........................... 17
■Home Channel function................ 18
DSetting a Home Channel ............. 18
■Transmitting ................................. 19
DMaking a simplex call .................. 19
DAbout the transmit power levels .. 20
■FM Radio operation...................... 20
DTurning ON the FM Radio ........... 20
■Lock function................................ 20
4 MENU SCREEN������������������������������� 21
■Selecting a Menu item.................. 21
DMENU screen operation .............. 21
DSelecting a Menu item................. 22
5 MEMORY OPERATION ������������������� 23
■Entering Memory channels .......... 23
■Selecting a Memory channel........ 24
■Viewing the Memory channel
contents....................................... 24

iv
BASIC MANUAL
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
6 RECORDING A QSO ONTO A
microSD CARD ������������������������������� 25
■About the microSD card............... 25
■Setting the Record operation ....... 26
■Recording a QSO audio............... 27
■Playing a recorded audio ............. 27
■Removing the microSD card ........ 28
DRemoving while
the transceiver is OFF ................. 28
DRemoving while
the transceiver is ON................... 28
7 GPS OPERATION���������������������������� 29
■Checking your location................. 29
DDisplaying Location Data............. 29
■GPS Logger function.................... 30
DTurning OFF
the GPS Logger function ............. 30
8 Bluetooth®OPERATION����������������� 31
■Turning ON
the Bluetooth®function ................ 31
■Connecting to
a Bluetooth®headset................... 32
■Disconnecting
a Bluetooth®device ..................... 33
■Deleting a Bluetooth®device
from the pairing list ...................... 33
9 SPECIFICATIONS ��������������������������� 34
DGeneral........................................ 34
DReceiver ...................................... 35
DTransmitter .................................. 36
DBluetooth ..................................... 36
10 MAINTENANCE������������������������������� 37
■Resetting...................................... 37
DPartial Reset................................ 37
■Troubleshooting ........................... 38
D-STAR GUIDE��������������������������������������� 40
INFORMATION ��������������������������������������� 67
■FCC information........................... 67
■Disposal ....................................... 67
■About CE and DOC...................... 67
INDEX������������������������������������������������������ 68
MENU SCREEN LIST ����������������������������� 71
D-STAR GUIDE
INTRODUCTION������������������������������������� 41
■Unique features of D-STAR.......... 41
■What is D-STAR?......................... 42
■About the DR function.................. 43
■Ways to Communicate
with the DR function .................... 43
■Enter your call sign (MY)
into the transceiver ...................... 45
■Register your call sign
at a gateway repeater.................. 47
D-STAR OPERATION ����������������������������� 49
■Making a Simplex call .................. 49
■Accessing repeaters..................... 51
■Receiving ..................................... 53
■Capturing a call sign..................... 55
■Making a Local CQ call ................ 56
■Making a Gateway CQ call........... 57
■Calling an individual station.......... 58
■About reectors............................ 59
DWhat is a reector?...................... 59
DUnlinking a reector..................... 59
DLinking to a reector .................... 60
DUsing a reector .......................... 61
DReector Echo Testing................. 62
DRequesting repeater information . 62
■“FROM” (Access repeater) setting63
■“TO” (Destination) setting............. 64
■When receiving no reply............... 65
■Updating the repeater list............. 66

v
BASIC MANUAL
■About the ID-52A/ID-52E manuals
You can use the following manuals to understand and operate this transceiver.
(As of October 2020)
TIP: You can download each manual and guide from the Icom website:
https://www.icomjapan.com/support/
Enter “ID-52A” or “ID-52E” into the Search box on the site.
Basic manual (This manual)
Instructions for basic operations and precautions.
Advanced manual (PDF type)
Instructions for the advanced operations, as shown below.
• Using a microSD card
• Battery operation
• FM Radio operation
• D-STAR operation
• GPS operation
• Voice TX operation
• Voice recorder operation
• Memory operation
• Scan operation
• Repeater and duplex operations
• Bluetooth®operation
• Set mode
• Other functions
• Firmware updating
• Options
Updating the repeater list (PDF type)
Instructions for the steps to update the repeater list.
About the GPS Logger function (PDF type)
Instructions for operating the GPS Logger function, that saves location data from a GPS
receiver onto a microSD card as a log.
About the DV Gateway function (PDF type)
Instructions for the system requirements or operations to use the DV Gateway function.
CI-V Reference Guide (PDF type)
Describes the control commands used in remote control operation (serial communication using
CI-V).
LIf necessary, you can see a glossary of HAM radio terms that can be downloaded from the
Icom website.
LTo read the manuals or Guide, Adobe®Acrobat®Reader®is required. If you have not
installed it, please download the Adobe®Acrobat®Reader®and install it on your PC. You can
download it from Adobe Systems Incorporated’s website.

vi
BASIC MANUAL
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
■Important Notes
DWhen using the GPS receiver
• GPS signals cannot pass through metal objects. When using the transceiver inside a
vehicle, you may not receive GPS signals. We recommend you use it near a window.
• The Global Positioning System (GPS) is built and operated by the U.S. Department of
Defense. The Department is responsible for accuracy and maintenance of the system.
Any changes by the Department may a󰀨ect the accuracy and function of the GPS system.
• The GPS receiver is installed under the transceiver’s top panel.
Therefore, when the GPS receiver is activated, do not cover the
top with anything that will block the satellite signals.
• The GPS receiver may not work if used in the following locations:
- Tunnels or high-rise buildings
- Underground parking lots
- Under a bridge or viaduct
- In remote forested areas
- Under bad weather conditions (rainy or cloudy day)
• The GPS receiver may not work if the transceiver operates near 373.135 MHz or
467.090 MHz on the A band, or 468.000 MHz on the B band. This is due to signals
made in the internal circuit, and does not indicate a transceiver malfunction.
DElectromagnetic Interference
When you use a Bluetooth device, pay attention to the following:
Bluetooth devices operate in the 2.4 GHz band. The 2.4 GHz band is also used by other
devices, such as Wireless LAN products, microwave ovens, RFID systems, amateur radio
stations, and so on. When using the Bluetooth device near such devices, interference
may occur, causing a decrease in communication speed, and an unstable connection. In
such cases, use this device away from the other devices, or stop using those devices.
LSee the Advanced manual for details.
DSpurious signals
Using the Dualwatch function, or monitoring the broadcast FM radio band while using
the Dualwatch function, may generate certain spurious signals, or noise may be heard,
depending on the combination of the operating band and mode. These do not indicate a
transceiver malfunction.
DAbout charging with the power ON
When the battery pack is attached, and the optional CP-12L or OPC-254L external
DC power cable is connected to [DC IN], the battery pack can be charged even if the
transceiver is ON. This operation may generate certain spurious signals, and the S-meter
may appear, or noise may be heard.
NOTE:
• The charging time with the power ON may di󰀨er, depending on the operating condition.
• The external DC power supply voltage must be between 10 ~ 16 V, and the current capacity
must be more than 2.5 A to charge the battery pack with the power ON.
• When you operate the transceiver while charging, and if you cannot receive signals
correctly, set “Charging (Power ON)”* to “OFF.”
* [MENU] > SET > Function > Charging (Power ON) (Default: ON)
The GPS receiver
is installed here.

vii
BASIC MANUAL
■Unique functions
This section introduces unique functions built into the ID-52A/ID-52E.
LSee the Advanced manual or “About the DV Gateway function” that can be downloaded
from the Icom website for more details.
1DV Gateway function
Even if you cannot access a D-STAR repeater, you can make a direct Gateway call
through the Internet.
NOTE:
• A Global IP connection is necessary for your Windows or Android device.
• Download and install the RS-MS3W or RS-MS3A application software from the Icom
website or Google Play.
• See “About the DV Gateway function” that can be downloaded from the Icom website for details.
Terminal mode
The Terminal mode enables you to make a direct Gateway call through the Internet
using a USB cable and a Windows or Android device.
Access Point mode
The Access Point mode enables a D-STAR transceiver to make a Gateway call through
an ID-52A/ID-52E using a USB cable and a Windows or Android device.
IMPORTANT: Before you set up an access point, check any regulations or laws in your country.
INTERNETINTERNET
INTERNETINTERNET

viii
BASIC MANUAL
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
You can select nearby repeaters using the DR function.
The function can  nd only repeaters that are in your
transceiver’s repeater list. (Advanced manual)
4Near Repeater (DV/FM) search function
You can send a picture that is saved onto a microSD card, and view a received picture,
even if you do not use the RS-MS1A. (Advanced manual)
LTo use this function, a microSD card (user supplied) is required.
2Share Pictures function
When you receive a call addressed to your own call sign, but are in a situation that makes
it di󰀩 cult to operate the transceiver, this function automatically replies with your own call
sign and transmits your position data. (Advanced manual)
3Auto Position Reply function
2Your position is automatically
transmitted.
1A call addressed to
your own call sign.
Your station
Destination
(ID-52A/ID-52E) 3After receiving, the
screen shows your
position data.

ix
BASIC MANUAL
■Precaution
RDANGER! NEVER operate the
transceiver near unshielded electrical
blasting caps or in an explosive
atmosphere. This could cause an explosion
and death.
RDANGER! NEVER use or charge Icom
battery packs with non-Icom transceivers
or non-Icom chargers. Only Icom battery
packs are tested and approved for use with
Icom transceivers or charged with Icom
chargers. Using third-party or counterfeit
battery packs or chargers may cause
smoke, re, or cause the battery to burst.
RWARNING RF EXPOSURE! This
transceiver emits Radio Frequency
(RF) energy. Extreme caution should be
observed when operating this transceiver.
If you have any questions regarding RF
exposure and safety standards, please
refer to the Federal Communications
Commission O󰀩ce 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.
RWARNING! NEVER operate or touch
the transceiver with wet hands. This could
cause an electric shock or damage the
transceiver.
RWARNING! NEVER operate the
transceiver with earphones, a headset, or
other audio accessories at high volume
levels. If you experience a ringing in your
ears, reduce the volume or discontinue
use.
RWARNING! NEVER connect the
transceiver to a power source of more than
16 V DC or use reverse polarity. This could
cause a re or damage the transceiver.
CAUTION: DO NOT short the terminals of
the battery pack. Shorting may occur if the
terminals touch metal objects such as a
key, so be careful when placing the battery
packs (or the transceiver) in bags, and so
on. Carry them so that shorting cannot
occur with metal objects. Shorting may
damage not only the battery pack but also
the transceiver.
CAUTION:
DO NOT operate the transceiver
unless the exible antenna, battery pack,
and jack cover are securely attached to the
transceiver and that the antenna and battery
pack are dry before attachment. Exposing
the inside of the transceiver to dust or
water will result in serious damage to the
transceiver. After exposure to water, clean
the battery contacts thoroughly with fresh
water and dry them completely to remove
any water or salt residue.
CAUTION: DO NOT operate the
transceiver while driving a vehicle. Safe
driving requires your full attention—
anything less may result in an accident.
CAUTION: DO NOT use harsh solvents
such as benzine or alcohol when cleaning.
This could damage the equipment
surfaces. If the surface becomes dusty or
dirty, wipe it clean with a soft, dry cloth.
CAUTION: DO NOT place or leave the
transceiver in direct sunlight or in areas
with temperatures below –20°C (–4˚F) or
above +60°C (+140˚F).
CAUTION: DO NOT operate the
transceiver if it becomes hot after
continuously transmitting for long periods of
time. This may damage the transceiver.
DO NOT push PTT unless you actually
intend to transmit.

x
BASIC MANUAL
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
BE CAREFUL! The transceiver meets
IPX7* requirements for waterproof
protection. However, once the transceiver
has been dropped, waterproof protection
cannot be guaranteed because of possible
damage to the transceiver’s case or
waterproof seal.
* Only when the BP-271, BP-272, or BP-307
(option), exible antenna, [MIC/SP] cover,
[USB/DC IN] cover, and [microSD] slot cover
are attached.
NOTE: When the BP-273 is attachted to
the transceiver, it meets IPX4 requirements
for splash resistance. When it is connected,
the transceiver corresponds to IPX4.
Even when the transceiver power is OFF,
a slight current still ows in the circuits.
Remove the battery pack or batteries from
the transceiver when not using it for a long
time. Otherwise, the installed battery pack
or batteries will become exhausted and will
need to be recharged or replaced.
NEVER place in an insecure place to avoid
inadvertent use by unauthorized persons.
The LCD display may have cosmetic
imperfections that appear as small dark
or light spots. This is not a malfunction or
defect, but a normal characteristic of LCD
displays.

xi
BASIC MANUAL
■Battery cautions
DBattery caution
Misuse of Li-ion batteries may result in
the following hazards: smoke, re, or
the battery may rupture. Misuse can
also cause damage to the battery or
degradation of batteryʼs performance.
RDANGER! NEVER incinerate used
battery packs. Internal battery gas may
cause an explosion.
RDANGER! NEVER strike or otherwise
impact the battery pack. Do not use
the battery pack if it has been severely
impacted or dropped, or if the pack has
been subjected to heavy pressure. Battery
pack 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 re.
RDANGER! NEVER leave the battery
pack in places with temperatures above
60˚C (140˚F). A High-temperature buildup in
the battery cells, such as could occur near
res or stoves, inside a sun-heated vehicle,
or in direct sunlight for long periods of time,
may cause the battery cells to rupture or
catch re. Excessive temperatures may also
degrade the pack’s performance or shorten
the battery cell’s life.
RDANGER! NEVER place battery packs
near a re. Fire or heat may cause them to
rupture or explode. Dispose of used battery
packs in accordance with local regulations.
RDANGER! NEVER solder the battery
terminals, or NEVER modify the battery pack.
This may cause heat generation, and the
battery may burst, emit smoke or catch re.
RDANGER! NEVER let uid from inside
the battery get in your eyes. This can
cause blindness. Rinse your eyes with
clean water, without rubbing them, and
immediately go to a doctor.
RWARNING! NEVER use deteriorated
battery packs. They could cause a re.
RWARNING! NEVER let uid from inside
the battery cells come in contact with your
body. If it does, immediately wash with
clean water.
RWARNING! NEVER put the battery
pack in a microwave oven, high-pressure
container, or in an induction heating cooker.
This could cause a re, overheating, or
cause the battery cells to rupture.
CAUTION: DO NOT expose the battery
pack to rain, snow, saltwater, or any other
liquids. Do not charge or use a wet pack.
If the pack gets wet, be sure to wipe it dry
cloth before using.
CAUTION: DO NOT use 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 distributor.
CAUTION: DO NOT use the battery pack
out of the specied temperature range
–20˚C ~ +60˚C (–4˚F ~ +140˚F). Using the
pack out of this range will reduce the pack’s
performance and battery cell life.
CAUTION: DO NOT leave the pack fully
charged, completely discharged, or in an
excessive temperature environment (above
50˚C, 122˚F) for an extended period of
time. Otherwise, a shorter battery pack
life could occur. If the battery pack must
be left unused for a long time, it must
be detached from the transceiver after
discharging. You may use the pack until the
remaining capacity is about half, then keep
it safely in a cool, dry place in the following
temperature range:
–20˚C (–4˚F) ~ +50˚C (+122˚F) (within a month).
–20˚C (–4˚F) ~ +35˚C (+95˚F)* (within three months).
–20˚C (–4˚F) ~ +20˚C (+68˚F) (within a year).
* BP-307: –20˚C (–4˚F) ~ +40˚C (+104˚F)

xii
BASIC MANUAL
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
BE SURE to replace the battery pack
with a new one approximately ve years
after manufacturing, even if it still holds
a charge. The material inside the battery
cells will become weak after a period of
time, even with little use. The estimated
number of times you can charge the pack is
between 300 and 500. Even when the pack
appears to be fully charged, the operating
time of the transceiver may become short
when:
• Approximately ve years have passed
since the pack was manufactured.
• The pack has been repeatedly charged.
DCharging caution
RDANGER! NEVER charge the battery
pack in areas with extremely high
temperatures, such as near res or stoves,
inside a sun-heated vehicle, or in direct
sunlight. In such environments, the safety/
protection circuit in the pack will activate
and stop the charging.
RDANGER! NEVER charge the
transceiver during a lightning storm. It may
result in an electric shock, cause a re, or
damage the transceiver. Always disconnect
the power adapter before a storm.
RWARNING! NEVER charge or leave
the battery in the battery charger beyond
the specied time for charging. If the pack
is not completely charged by the specied
time, stop charging and remove it from the
battery charger. Continuing to charge the
pack beyond the specied time limit may
cause a re, overheating, or the battery
may rupture.
RWARNING! Occasionally observe the
battery pack condition while charging. If
any abnormal condition occurs, discontinue
using the battery pack.
CAUTION: DO NOT insert the transceiver
with the battery pack attached 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
pack outside of the specied temperature
range: 0˚C ~ 40˚C (32˚F ~ 104˚F). Icom
recommends charging the pack at 25˚C
(77˚F). The pack may heat up or rupture if
charged out of the specied temperature
range. Additionally, battery performance or
battery life may be reduced.
CAUTION: DO NOT use the battery
charger unless the power outlet is easily
accessible and near the unit. Remove it
from the AC power outlet when not in use.

1
BASIC MANUAL
1PANEL DESCRIPTION
■Front, top, and side panels
1PTT SWITCH [PTT]
Hold down to transmit, release to receive.
LFor the ID-52E only
Push briey and release, and then hold down to transmit a 1750 Hz tone burst.
2SQUELCH KEY [SQL] (p. 12)
zWhile holding down, rotate [DIAL] to adjust the squelch level.
zHold down to temporarily open the squelch and monitor the operating frequency.
3POWER KEY [ ]
zHold down for 1 second to turn the transceiver ON or OFF. (p. 7)
zWhen “Screen Capture [PWR] Key” is set to “ON,” push to capture the transceiver
display onto a microSD card. ([MENU] > SET > Function > Screen Capture [PWR] Key)
4microSD CARD SLOT [microSD]
Insert a microSD card (User supplied). (p. 7)
5ANTENNA CONNECTOR
Connect the supplied antenna.
6TX/RX INDICATOR
Lights red while transmitting.
Lights green while receiving a signal, or when the squelch is open.
7RX CALL SIGN DISPLAY • D-PAD (LEFT) KEY [CD]/D-pad()
zIn the DV mode, hold down for 1 second to open the received call history. (p. 53)
zIn the MENU screen, push to select an upper-tier menu. (p. 21)
8MENU • LOCK KEY [MENU]/[ ]
zPush to open the MENU screen. (p. 21)
zHold down for 1 second to turn the Lock function ON or OFF. (p. 20)
9MODE • SCAN KEY [MODE]/[SCAN]
zPush to select the operating mode. (p. 15)
zHold down for 1 second to open the Scan Type Select window. (p. 17)
1
2
3
4
5
7
8
9

 










Function
Display
(p. 3)
Speaker Internal
Microphone
6

PANEL DESCRIPTION 1
2
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
BASIC MANUAL
MAIN • DUAL KEY [MAIN]/[DUAL]
zPush to set the A or B band as the MAIN band. (p. 11)
zHold down for 1 second to turn the Dualwatch function ON or OFF. (p. 11)
ENTER KEY [ENT]
Push to set the selected item or option.
DR • D-PAD (DOWN) KEY [DR]/D-pad()
zHold down for 1 second to turn the DR function ON or OFF. (p. 14)
zIn the DR screen, MENU screen, or Quick Menu window, push to move the option
or value selector bar down. (pp. 13, 21, 49)
QUICK MENU • SPEECH KEY [QUICK]/[SPCH]
zPush to open the Quick Menu window. (p. 13)
zHold down for 1 second to audibly announce the displayed frequency and operating
mode, or call sign. (p. 17)
MEMORY • SELECT MEMORY WRITE KEY [MR]/[MW]
zPush to enter the Memory mode. (p. 14)
LFor the ID-52A only
In the Memory mode, push once to enter the Weather Channel mode.
zHold down for 1 second to open the Select Memory Write window. (p. 23)
zHold down for 3 second to enter the Memory channel contents to a blank channel.
VFO/MHz • CLEAR • CALL KEY [VFO/MHz]/[CLR]/[CALL]
zPush to enter the VFO mode. (p. 16)
zIn the VFO mode, push to select 1 MHz tuning steps. (p. 16)
zIn the MENU screen, push to select an upper-tier menu. (p. 21)
zPush to delete an entered character. (p. 46)
zHold down for 1 second to enter the Call Channel mode. (p. 14)
LO • D-PAD (RIGHT) KEY [LO]/D-pad()
zHold down for 1 second to open the Select Output Power window. (p. 20)
zIn the MENU screen, push to select a lower-tier menu. (p. 21)
RX CALL SIGN CAPTURE • D-PAD (UP) KEY [RX→CS]/D-pad()
zHold down for 1 second to capture the calling stationʼs call sign. (p. 55)
zIn the DR screen, MENU screen, or Quick Menu window, push to move the value or
option selector bar up. (pp. 13, 21, 49)
VOLUME CONTROL [VOL]
Rotate to adjust the audio level. (p. 7)
CONTROL DIAL [DIAL]
zRotate to select an operating frequency. (p. 16)
zIn the Memory mode, rotate to select a Memory channel.
zRotate to select a setting item or value.
zIn the Character Entry mode, rotate to enter characters.
EXTERNAL MICROPHONE • SPEAKER JACK [MIC/SP]
Connect an optional speaker microphone or headset.
(SP: 3.5 mm (1/8 inch), MIC: 2.5 mm)
LConrm that the transceiver is OFF before connecting or disconnecting optional equipment.
USB PORT (Micro-B) [USB]
Connects to an external power source, a PC, or other USB device.
EXTERNAL DC IN JACK [DC IN]
Connects to the supplied battery charger to charge the attached battery pack. (p. 6)

1PANEL DESCRIPTION
3
BASIC MANUAL
■Function display
1BATTERY ICON
Displays the current capacity of the attached battery pack. (p. 6)
L“” is displayed when the optional battery case is attached.
2USB CONNECTION INDICATOR
Displayed when a USB device is connected through a USB cable, and “USB Connect”
is set to “Serialport.” ([MENU] > SET > Function > USB Connect)
3OPERATING MODE ICONS
Displays the selected operating mode. (p. 15)
4VOX ICON
Displayed when the VOX function is ON.
5DUPLEX ICONS
• D+: Displayed during plus duplex operation.
• D–: Displayed during minus duplex operation.
6Bluetooth®ICON
Displayed when a Bluetooth device is connected. (p. 32)
7FM RADIO ICON
Displayed when the FM radio is ON. (p. 20)
8PICTURE SHARE ICON
Displayed when the Share Pictures function is ON.
9TONE ICONS
Displayed when the tone or digital squelch function is ON.
GPS ICON
Displays the status of the GPS receiver. (p. 10)
GPS ALARM ICON
Displayed when the GPS Alarm function is ON.
microSD ICON (p. 8)
• Displayed when a microSD card is inserted.
• Blinks while accessing the microSD card.
Dual band display
FM RADIO window
(Tuning mode)
Single band display
1 2
3
4
5
678 
9












PANEL DESCRIPTION 1
4
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
BASIC MANUAL
EMR/BK/PACKET LOSS/AUTO REPLAY ICONS
• EMR:
Displayed when the Enhanced Monitor Request (EMR) function is ON.
• BK: Displayed when the Break-in (BK) function is ON.
• L: Displayed when packet loss has occurred.
• : Displayed when the Auto Reply function is ON.
AUTO POWER OFF ICON
Displayed when the Auto Power OFF function is ON.
ATTENUATOR ICON
Displayed when the attenuator is ON. (p. 16)
CLOCK DISPLAY
RECORD ICONS (p. 27)
• : Displayed while the transceiver is recording.
• : Displayed while the recording is paused.
WEATHER ALERT ICON
Displayed when the Weather Alert function is ON. (Only the ID-52A)
SKIP ICONS
• SKIP: Displayed when Memory Skip is selected.
• PSKIP: Displayed when Program Skip is selected.
MEMORY CHANNEL NUMBER
• In the Memory mode, displays the selected Memory group and Memory channel
number.
• In the Call Channel mode, displays “144” or “433” and “C0” or “C1.”
FREQUENCY SELECTING MODE ICONS
• : Displayed while in the VFO mode.
• : Displayed while in the Memory mode.
• : Displayed while in the Call Channel mode.
• : Displayed while in the Weather Channel mode.
• : Displayed while the DR function is ON.
S/RF METER
• Displays the relative signal strength of the received signal.
• Displays the output power level of the transmit signal.
POWER ICONS
Displays the output power level of the transmit signal in 5 levels
(SLO/LO1/LO2/MID/no icon).
LWhen you select HIGH power, the power icon disappears.
MEMORY NAME DISPLAY
LYou can change the display type in the Quick Menu window.
FREQUENCY READOUT
Displays an operating frequency.
MAIN BAND ICON
• When the Dualwatch function is ON, indicates that the selected band (A or B) is the
MAIN band.
• When the Dualwatch function is OFF, indicates the selected band (A or B).
• TM: Displayed while in the Terminal mode.
• AP: Displayed while in the Access Point mode.
TIP: See “About the DV Gateway function” that can be downloaded from the Icom
website about the Terminal mode and the Access Point mode.

5
BASIC MANUAL
2INITIAL SETUP
Before starting using the transceiver, follow these steps for the initial setup.
STEP 1 Attaching the battery pack and charging the battery. (pp. 5, 6)
STEP 2 Inserting a microSD card. (p. 7)
STEP 3 Turning ON the transceiver. (p. 7)
STEP 4 Adjusting the audio level. (p. 7)
STEP 5 Saving your initial setting onto a microSD card. (p. 8)
STEP 6 
STEP 7 * Entering your Call sign (MY) into the transceiver. (p. 45)
STEP 8 
► You have completed the steps!!
* You can skip the steps if you do not plan to operate D-STAR right now.
■Attaching the Battery pack
Attach or detach the battery pack or battery case, as illustrated below.
LWhen attaching, slide the battery pack and hold it down until the both latches are locked.
1
1
2
2
1
Battery pack or
battery case
LIllustrations are when using the battery pack.
NOTE:
• 
battery pack or case from the transceiver when not using it for a long time. Otherwise, the
attached battery pack or case will become exhausted, and will need to be recharged or
replaced.
• 

selections High, Mid, and Low2.
To attach To detach

 2
6
1
7
4
10
15
18
2
8
13
5
11
16
3
9
14
6
12
17
BASIC MANUAL
■Charging the battery pack
DCapacity of the battery pack
ICON BATTERY STATUS
󰀩
The battery is exhausted a little.
The battery is nearing exhaustion.
Blinking The battery is almost fully exhausted.
NOTE:
• 
optimum life and operation.
•BE SURE to turn OFF the transceiver while charging with the supplied battery charger.
Otherwise, the attached battery pack cannot be charged.
• While charging, the charging icon “ ” and “Charging....” are displayed.
• The icon and “Charging....” disappear when the battery pack is fully charged.
NOTE: BE SURE to attach the battery
pack before connecting the Battery
charger.
To [DC IN]
To an AC outlet
BP-271 (Supplied)
BC-167S
L󰀨
optional, depending on the charger version.
Turn OFF
Charging time:

LSee the Advanced manual about the optional battery packs and chargers.

2
7
BASIC MANUAL
■Inserting a microSD card
See page 25 for the usable microSD card.
 Turn OFF the transceiver.
2. 
 With the terminals facing the front, insert the card into the slot until it locks in place
and makes a ‘click’ sound.
LWhen removing, push in the microSD card until a ‘click’ sounds. The card is unlocked,
and you can pull it out.
NOTE:
•DO NOT touch the terminals.
•DO NOT remove the card from the transceiver while the card is being accessed.
Otherwise, the card data may be corrupted or deleted.
4. Completely close the [microSD] slot cover.
[microSD] slot
microSD card
Terminals
facing the front Slot cover
CAUTION: DO NOT forcibly or
inversely insert the card. It will
damage the card or the slot.
■Turning ON the transceiver
zHold down [ 
• A beep sounds.
• After the opening message and remaining battery
capacity are displayed, the operating frequency or
repeater name is displayed.
zHold down [ 
transceiver.
■Adjusting the audio level
Rotate [VOL] to adjust the audio level.
LThe display shows the audio level while adjusting.
[VOL]
[]