Icom IC-M90E VHF Marine Transceiver Instruction Manual

In Case of Emergency

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

Distress Call Procedure (Using Channel 16)

1. "MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY."
2. "THIS IS [name of vessel]"
3. Your call sign or other indication of the vessel.
4. "LOCATED AT [your position]"
5. The nature of the distress and assistance required.
6. Any other information which might facilitate the rescue.

Recommendation

Clean the transceiver thoroughly with fresh water after exposure to saltwater, and dry it before operation. Otherwise, the transceiver's keys, switches, and controllers may become inoperable due to salt crystallization.

Note: DO NOT wash the transceiver in water if there is any reason to suspect the waterproofing may not be effective. For example, in cases where the battery pack rubber seal is damaged, the transceiver/battery pack is cracked or broken, or has been dropped, or when the battery pack is detached from the transceiver.

Foreword

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

Important

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS carefully and completely before using the transceiver.

SAVE THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL—This instruction manual contains important operating instructions for the IC-M90E.

Explicit Definitions

Features

Waterproof Construction

Built tough to withstand the punishing marine environment, the transceiver's submersible construction meets IPX7* requirements for waterproof protection (1 meter depth for 30 min.). The speaker grill adopts a new structure which drains water or seawater easily.

* Only when the battery pack and flexible antenna are attached.

Dualwatch and Tri-watch Functions

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

Large, Easy-to-Read LCD

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

Simple Operation

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

Precautions

❗ WARNING! NEVER connect the transceiver to an AC outlet. This may pose a fire hazard or result in an electric shock.

❗ WARNING! NEVER hold the transceiver so that the antenna is closer than 2.5 cm from exposed parts of the body, especially the face or eyes, while transmitting. The transceiver will perform best if the microphone is 5 to 10 cm away from the lips and the transceiver is vertical.

NEVER connect the transceiver to a power source other than the BP-223 or BP-252. Such a connection will ruin the transceiver.

DO NOT use or place the transceiver in direct sunlight or in areas with temperatures below –15°C or above +55°C (Marine), or –25°C or above +55°C (PMR).

KEEP the transceiver out of the reach of children.

KEEP the transceiver at least 0.9 meters away from your vessel's magnetic navigation compass.

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

BE CAREFUL! The 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 the waterproof seal.

* Only when the battery pack and flexible antenna are attached.

Icom optional equipment are designed for optimal performance when used with this transceiver. Icom is not responsible for the transceiver being damaged or any accident caused when using non-Icom optional equipment.

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 and/or other countries.

Operating Rules

Priorities

• Read all rules and regulations pertaining to priorities and keep an up-to-date copy handy. Safety and distress calls take priority over all others.
• You must monitor Channel 16 when you are not operating on another channel.
• False or fraudulent distress calls are prohibited under law.

Privacy

• Information overheard but not intended for you cannot lawfully be used in any way.
• Indecent or profane language is prohibited.

Radio Licenses

(1) Ship Station License

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

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

(2) Operator's License

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

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

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

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

Supplied Accessories and Attachments

Supplied Accessories

• Handstrap
• Belt clip
• Battery pack
• Battery charger (with 2 screws)*
• AC adapter*
• Flexible antenna

* Not supplied with some versions.

Attachments

Flexible Antenna

Connect the supplied flexible antenna to the antenna connector.

CAUTION: NEVER carry the transceiver by holding the antenna. Transmitting without an antenna may damage the transceiver.

Handstrap

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

Belt Clip

Attach the belt clip to the transceiver as illustrated below.

Battery Pack

To remove the battery pack: Turn the screw counterclockwise, then pull the battery pack in the direction of the arrow.

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

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

Note: When the lock screw does not easily (feels tight), check to ensure the battery pack is sufficiently inserted to the transceiver. DO NOT bang or cause high impact to the battery pack, as this may damage the battery pack/or the transceiver.

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

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

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

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

Panel Description

Front, Top, and Side Panels

1 VOLUME CONTROL [VOL]: Turns power ON and adjusts the audio level.

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

3 ANTENNA CONNECTOR: Connects the supplied antenna.

4 TRANSMIT/RECEIVE INDICATOR: Lights green while receiving a signal or when the squelch is open; lights red while transmitting; lights orange while the VOX function is used.

5 DIAL/CHANNEL GROUP KEY [DIAL]:

• Selects one of 3 regular channels in sequence when pushed for 1 sec. (pgs. 8, 15). U.S.A.*¹ (or ATIS*²), International and LAND (PMR) channels are available. (*¹U.K. version only. *²German version only.)
• Push to return to the condition before selecting the channel when the priority channel or the call channel is selected.

6 SCAN KEY [SCAN•DUAL]:

• Starts and stops normal or priority scan when pushed (pgs. 12, 13).
• Enters watch mode when pushed for 1 sec. (p. 14).

7 TRANSMIT POWER/LOCK KEY [Hi/Lo ➔]:

• Selects high, middle or low power when pushed (p. 9).
• Toggles the lock function ON/OFF when pushed for 1 sec. (p. 10).

8 CHANNEL 16 KEY [16•C]:

• Selects Channel 16 when pushed (p. 7).
• Selects call channel when pushed for 1 sec. (p. 7).
• Enters call channel write mode when the call channel is selected and this key is pushed for 3 sec. (p. 10).

9 CHANNEL UP/DOWN SWITCHES [▲]/[▼]:

• Selects an operating channel (pgs. 7–9).
• Selects the SET mode condition of the item (p. 16).
• Selects the SET mode item when pushed with [SQL•MONI] (p. 16).
• Checks tag channels or changes scanning direction during scan (p. 13).

10 SQUELCH SWITCH [SQL•MONI]:

• Push this switch, then adjust the squelch level with [▲]/[▼] (p. 11).
• Manually opens the squelch for monitoring the channel while pushed and held (p. 10).
• While pushing this switch, turn power ON to enter the SET mode (p. 16).
• Selects the SET mode item (p. 16).

11 PTT SWITCH [PTT]: Push and hold to transmit; release to receive.

Function Display

q SIGNAL STRENGTH INDICATOR (pgs. 10, 20): Shows the relative signal strength while receiving signals.

w TRANSMIT POWER INDICATOR: "LOW" appears when low power is selected; "MID" appears when middle power is selected; no indication appears when high power is selected.

e TAG CHANNEL INDICATOR (p. 13): Appears when tag channel is selected.

r SQUELCH LEVEL INDICATOR (p. 11): Shows the squelch level.

t MONITOR INDICATOR (p. 10): Appears when the monitor function is activated.

y BATTERY INDICATOR: Indicates remaining battery power. (Indication: Full, Middle, Charging required, No battery. [ ] blinks when the battery is over charged. [ ] blinks when the battery is exhaustion.)

u SCAN INDICATOR (p. 13): "SCAN" blinks during scan.

i VOX INDICATOR (p. 15): "VOX" appears when the VOX function is used.

o DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH INDICATORS (p. 14): "DUAL" blinks during dualwatch; "TRI" blinks during tri-watch.

!0 SCRAMBLER INDICATOR: Appears when the optional voice scrambler is activated (pgs. 11, 20).

!1 DUPLEX INDICATOR: Appears when a duplex channel is selected.

!2 SUB CHANNEL READOUT: Indicates Channel 16 during priority scan or dualwatch (p. 14). Indicates the SET mode items while in the SET mode (p. 16).

!3 CHANNEL NUMBER READOUT: Indicates the selected operating channel number. In SET mode, indicates the selected condition.

!4 LOCK INDICATOR: Appears when the lock function is activated.

!5 CALL CHANNEL INDICATOR: Appears when the call channel is selected.

!6 CHANNEL GROUP INDICATOR: "I" appears when International; "U" appears when U.S.A. (U.K. version only); "LAND" appears when LAND (PMR) channel group is selected. "ATIS" appears when the channel group in which ATIS function is activated (German version only).

Basic Operation

Channel Selection

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

Channel 16

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

1. Push [16•C] to select Channel 16.

2. Push [DIAL] to return to the condition before selecting Channel 16, or push [▲]/[▼] to select the operating channel.

Call Channel

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

1. Push [16•C] for 1 sec. to select the call channel. "CALL" and the call channel number appear.

2. Call channel can be re-programmed. See the "Call channel programming" on p. 10 for details.

3. Push [DIAL] to return to the condition before selecting the call channel, or push [▲]/[▼] to select the operating channel.

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

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

The IC-M90E has 57*³ International, 59 U.S.A.*¹ and 57 ATIS*² channels. You must select the proper channels for the operating area.

*³International channel numbers are depended on versions.

1. Push [DIAL] to select the regular channel.

2. Push [▲]/[▼] to select a channel.

• "DUP" appears for duplex channels.

3. To change the channel group, push [DIAL] for 1 sec. International, U.S.A*¹ and ATIS*² channels can be selected in sequence. Depending on the setting, LAND (PMR) channel can be selected. See the “LAND (PMR) CHANNEL OPERATION” on p. 15 for details.

Receiving and Transmitting

CAUTION: Transmitting without an antenna may damage the transceiver.

1. Rotate [VOL] clockwise to turn power ON.

2. Set the volume and squelch level:

• Push [SQL•MONI], and push [▼] to open the squelch.
• Push [SQL•MONI] to stop “SQL” indicator blinking, then rotate [VOL] to set the volume level.
• Push [SQL•MONI], and push [▲]/[▼] to set the squelch level.

3. Push [▲]/[▼] to select the desired channel. When receiving a signal, the [TRANSMIT/RECEIVE] indicator lights green while audio is emitted from the speaker. Further adjustment of [VOL] may be necessary at this point.

4. Push [Hi/Lo➔] to select the output power if necessary. "LOW" appears when low power is selected; "MID" appears when middle power is selected; no indication when high power is selected.

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

5. Push and hold [PTT] to transmit, then speak into the microphone.

• The [TRANSMIT/RECEIVE] indicator lights red while transmitting.
• Channel 70 cannot be used for transmission.

6. Release [PTT] to receive.

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

NOTE: The transceiver has a power save function to conserve the battery power. The power save function activates automatically when no signal is received for 5 sec. To prevent accidental prolonged transmission, etc., the IC-M90E has a time-out-timer function. This timer cuts a transmission OFF after 5 min. of continuous transmission.

Call Channel Programming

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

1. Push [DIAL] for 1 sec. several times to select the desired channel group (INT, USA*¹, ATIS*²) to be programmed.

2. Push [16•C] for 1 sec. to select the call channel. "CALL" and the call channel number appear.

3. Push [16•C] again for 3 sec. (until a long beep changes to 2 short beeps) to enter call channel programming condition. Call channel number to be programmed flashes.

4. Push [▲]/[▼] to select the desired channel.

5. Push [16•C] to program the displayed channel as the call channel. The call channel number stops flashing.

Lock Function

This function electronically locks all keys (except for [PTT], [SQL•MONI] and [Hi/Lo➔]) to prevent accidental channel changes and function access.

Push [Hi/Lo➔] for 1 sec. to turn the lock function ON and OFF.

Appears while the lock function is used.

Signal Strength Indicator

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

Monitor Function

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

Push [SQL•MONI] for 1 sec. and keep holding to activate the monitor function. " " appears and audio is emitted.

Adjusting the Squelch Level

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

1. Push [SQL MONI], then adjust the squelch level with [▲]/[▼].

• "SQL" indicator starts blinking.
• There are 11 squelch levels to choose from: OP is completely open; 10 is tight squelch; 1 is loose squelch level.

2. Push [SQL•MONI] again to return to normal condition. When no switch is pushed for 5 sec., the transceiver returns to normal condition.

(Diagram shows squelch level adjustment with blinking SQL indicator and level display)

Backlighting Function

This function is convenient for nighttime operation. The backlighting brightness can be adjusted in the SET mode (p. 18). Push any key except [PTT] to turn the backlighting ON. The backlighting is automatically turned OFF after 5 sec. of inactivity.

Voice Scrambler Operation

Activating the Scrambler

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

1. Select an operating channel except Channel 16 or 70.

2. While pushing and holding [SQL•MONI], push [SCAN•DUAL]. "SCRM" appears.

3. To turn the scrambler function OFF, repeat step 2. "SCRM" disappears.

(Diagram shows "SCRM" appearing on display)

Programming Scramble Codes

32 scrambler codes (1 to 32) are available for voice scrambler operation. Set the code in the SET mode. In order to understand each other, all transceivers in your group must have the same scrambler code. See p. 20 for "Scrambler code" setting details.

Scan Operation

Scan Types

Scanning is an efficient way to quickly locate signals over a wide frequency range. The transceiver has a priority scan setting and normal scan setting. In addition, the "Auto scan" function is available for scanning. This function can be activated simultaneously, depending on the settings on the SET mode (p. 17).

Priority Scan

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

Normal Scan

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

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

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

Setting Tag Channels

For more efficient scanning, add desired channels as tag channels or clear the tag for unwanted channels. Non-tag channels will be skipped during scanning. Tag channels can be assigned to each channel group (INT, USA*¹, ATIS*²) independently.

1. Select the desired channel group (INT, USA*¹, ATIS*²) by pushing [DIAL] for 1 sec., if desired.

2. Select the desired channel to set as a tag channel.

3. Push both [▲] and [▼] for 1 sec. to set the displayed channel as a tag channel. "TAG" appears in the function display.

4. To cancel the tag channel setting, push both [▲] and [▼] for 1 sec. "TAG" disappears.

Clearing all tag channels in the selected channel group: While pushing and holding both [▲] and [▼], turn power ON to clear all tag channels in the channel group.

Starting a Scan

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

1. Select the desired channel group (INT, USA*¹, ATIS*²) by pushing [DIAL] for 1 sec., if desired.

2. Push [SCAN•DUAL] to start priority or normal scan. "SCAN" blinks in the function display. "16" appears on the sub channel readout during priority scan.

3. When a signal is received, scan pauses until the signal disappears or resumes after pausing 5 sec. according to scan resume timer setting. (Channel 16 is still monitored during priority scan.)

4. Push [▲]/[▼] to check the scanning tag channels, change the scanning direction or resume the scan manually.

5. To stop the scan, push [SCAN•DUAL]. "SCAN" disappears. Pushing [PTT], [16•C] or [DIAL] also stops the scan.

Dualwatch/Tri-watch

Description

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

(Diagrams show Dualwatch and Tri-watch simulations)

• 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].

Operation

1. Select the desired operating channel.

2. Push [SCAN•DUAL] for 1 sec. to start dualwatch or tri-watch (depending on the SET mode setting). "DUAL" blinks during dualwatch; "TRI" blinks during tri-watch. A beep tone sounds when a signal is received on Channel 16. Tri-watch becomes dualwatch when receiving a signal on the call channel.

3. To cancel dualwatch/tri-watch, push [SCAN•DUAL] again.

(Example: Operating tri-watch on INT channel 07, showing display changes)

LAND (PMR) Channel Operation

LAND (PMR) Channel Group

A maximum of 100 PMR channels (allocated 146.000 to 174.000 MHz) can be programmed into the LAND channel group for simple communication with PMR transceivers in the VHF band. Moreover, any of the marine channels in the USA*¹, INT and ATIS*² channel groups can be programmed. The default setting of the LAND channel group is the same as that of the INT channel group. Ask your local Icom dealer for the LAND channel group setting and PMR frequency programming details.

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

1. Push [DIAL] to select a regular channel.

2. To change the channel group, push [DIAL] for 1 sec. several times. "LAND" appears when LAND channel group is selected.

3. Push [▲]/[▼] to select a channel. "DUP" appears for duplex channels.

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

CTCSS and DTCS Display

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

(Displays showing DTCS and CTCSS indicators)

VOX Function

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

Note: An optional headset and headset adapter is required for the VOX operation.

Push and hold [SQL•MONI], then push [Hi/Lo➔] to turn the VOX function ON/OFF while connecting the optional headset and headset adapter to [MIC/SP] connector. "VOX" appears on the LCD while the VOX function turns ON. The "VOX gain" and "VOX delay" can be set in the SET mode (p. 21).

SET Mode

SET Mode Programming

SET mode is used to change the condition of 16 transceiver functions: Beep tone function, Priority scan function, Scan resume timer, Auto scan function, Dual/tri-watch function, Monitor switch action, Backlighting function, LCD contrast selection, Auto power save function, Self check function, Battery voltage indicator, Signal strength indicator, Squelch sensitivity, Scrambler code, VOX gain and VOX delay.

SET Mode Operation

1. Turn power OFF.

2. While pushing [SQL•MONI], turn power ON to enter the SET mode. "bp" (Beep tone function setting) appears.

3. Push [SQL MONI] or [SQL•MONI] and [▲]/[▼] to select the desired item, if necessary.

4. Push [▲]/[▼] to select the desired condition of the item.

5. Push [16•C] to exit the SET mode.

SET Mode Items

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

(Descriptions of each SET mode item with corresponding display changes)

SET Mode List

*default setting

Battery Charging

Battery Caution

⚠️ DANGER! Use and charge only specified Icom battery pack with Icom radios or Icom charger. Only Icom battery pack is tested and approved for use and charge with Icom radios or Icom charger. Using third-party or counterfeit battery packs or charger may cause smoke, fire, or cause the battery to burst.

⚠️ DANGER! DO NOT hammer or otherwise impact the battery. 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.

⚠️ DANGER! NEVER use or leave battery pack in areas with temperatures above +60°C. High temperature buildup in the battery, such as could occur near fires or stoves, inside a sun-heated car, or by setting the battery in direct sunlight may cause the battery to rupture or catch fire. Excessive temperatures may also degrade battery performance or shorten battery life.

⚠️ DANGER! DO NOT expose the battery to rain, snow, saltwater, or any other liquids. Never charge or use a wet battery. If the battery gets wet, be sure to wipe it dry before using. The battery by itself is not waterproof.

⚠️ DANGER! NEVER incinerate a used battery pack since internal battery gas may cause them to rupture or may cause an explosion.

⚠️ DANGER! NEVER solder the battery terminals, or NEVER modify the battery pack. This may cause heat generation, and the battery may rupture, emit smoke or catch fire.

⚠️ DANGER! 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 described in this instruction manual.

⚠️ DANGER! 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 odour, heats up, or is discoloured or deformed. If any of these conditions occur, contact your Icom dealer or distributor.

❗ WARNING! Immediately wash, using clean water, any part of the body that comes into contact with fluid from inside the battery.

❗ WARNING! NEVER put the battery in a microwave oven, high-pressure container, or in an induction heating cooker. This could cause overheating, a fire, or cause the battery to rupture.

CAUTION! Always use the battery within the specific temperature range for the transceiver (–15°C to +55°C) and the battery itself (–20°C to +60°C). Using the battery out of its specific 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) for an extended period of time. If the battery must be left unused for a long time, it must be detached from the radio after discharging. You may use the battery until the remaining capacity is about half, then keep it safely in a cool dry place with the temperature range as below:

• –20°C to +50°C (within a month)
• –20°C to +35°C (within three months)
• –20°C to +20°C (within a year)

Charging Caution

⚠️ DANGER! 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 environments, the safety/protection circuit in the battery will activate, causing the battery to stop charging.

❗ WARNING! DO NOT charge or leave the battery in the battery charger beyond the specific time for charging. If the battery is not completely charged by the specific time, stop charging and remove the battery from the battery charger. Continuing to charge the battery beyond the specific time limit may cause a fire, overheating, or the battery may rupture.

❗ 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 specific temperature range: ±0°C to +40°C. Icom recommends charging the battery at +20°C. The battery may heat up or rupture if charged out of the specific temperature range. Additionally, battery performance or battery life may be reduced.

Supplied Battery Charger

BC-162 Installation

(Diagrams show desktop and wall mounting options, and stability enhancement)

Charging

1. Connect the AC adapter as shown below.

2. Insert the battery pack with/without the transceiver into the charger. The charge indicator lights orange. The charge indicator blinks orange (or red) when the protector is activated.

3. Charge the battery pack approx. 2 hours, depending on the remaining power condition. The charge indicator lights green when charging is completed.

NOTE: The battery charger, BC-162, has a charging timer. The timer stops the charging process after 4 hours (approx.).

(Diagram shows battery pack and transceiver being placed in charger, connected to AC adapter)

Optional Battery Case

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

1. Remove the battery case from the transceiver.

2. Install 6 × AA(LR6) size Alkaline batteries. Be sure to observe the correct polarity.

CAUTION: When installing batteries, make sure they are all the same brand, type and capacity. Also, do not mix new and old batteries together. Keep battery contacts clean. It's a good idea to clean battery terminals once a week.

(Diagram shows battery case with AA batteries being inserted)

Optional Swivel Belt Clip

MB-86 Contents

• Belt clip: 1
• Base clip: 1
• Supplied screws: 2

Attachment

1. Screw the base clip to the back of the transceiver using the two screws (supplied), as shown below.

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

3. Once the transceiver is locked in place, it swivels as illustrated below.

Detachment

Turn the transceiver upside down in the direction of the arrow and pull out from the belt clip.

CAUTION: HOLD THE TRANSCEIVER TIGHTLY, WHEN HANGING OR DETACHING THE TRANSCEIVER FROM THE BELT CLIP. Otherwise the transceiver may not be attached to the belt clip or swivelled properly if the transceiver is accidentally dropped and the base clip is scratched or damaged.

Optional Speaker-Microphone

HM-125 Descriptions

(Diagram shows speaker-microphone with labels: Alligator type clip, PTT switch, Microphone, Speaker)

Attachment

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

(Diagrams show detaching and attaching the speaker-mic connector)

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

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

Note: The microphone is located at the top of the speaker-microphone, as shown in the diagram above. To maximize the readability of your transmitted signal (voice), hold the microphone approx. 5 to 10 cm from your mouth, and speak in a normal voice level.

Troubleshooting

VHF Marine Channel List

(Table listing International and USA channels with frequencies)

Specifications

General

• Frequency coverage [Marine]: TX 156.000–161.450 MHz, RX 156.000–163.425 MHz
• [PMR] TX/RX: 146.000–174.000 MHz
• Mode [Marine]: 16K0G3E (Wide)
• [PMR]: 16K0F3E (Wide)*/8K50F3E (Narrow) (*Germany version is 14K0F3E.)
• Number of programmable ch.: 100 channels
• Power supply requirement: Battery packs (BP-223 or BP-252 only)
• Current drain (approx.) (at 7.2 V DC): TX High (5 W) 1.6 A, TX Mid. (3 W) 1.2 A, TX Low (1 W) 0.7 A, TX Low (0.5 W) 0.6 A, RX Max audio 200 mA
• Frequency stability: ±1.5 kHz (–25°C to +55°C)
• Operating temperature range [Marine]: –15°C to +55°C
• [PMR]: –25°C to +55°C
• Antenna impedance: 50 Ω
• Dimensions (Projections not included): 65(W) × 145(H) × 44(D) mm
• Weight (with BP-225): Approx. 410 g

Transmitter

• Output power (at 7.2 V DC): 5 W (Hi), 3 W (Middle) and 1 W (Low); 1 W (Hi), 0.5 W (Low) for Germany version marine operation.
• Modulation system: Variable reactance frequency modulation
• Microphone impedance: 2 kΩ
• Max. frequency deviation [Marine]: ±5 kHz (Wide)
• [PMR]: ±5 kHz (Wide)*/ ±2.5 kHz (Narrow) (*Germany ver. is ±4 kHz.)
• Adjacent channel power [Marine]: 70 dB
• [PMR]: 70 dB (Wide), 60 dB (Narrow)
• Spurious emissions: 0.25 µW (less than 2 GHz), 1.0 µW (more than 2 GHz)
• Audio harmonics distortion: 10% at 60% deviation
• Residual modulation [Marine]: 40 dB
• [PMR]: 40 dB (Wide), 34 dB (Narrow)
• Limiting charact of modulation: 60–100% of max. deviation

Receiver

• Receive system: Double-conversion superheterodyne
• Intermediate frequency: 1st: 31.05 MHz, 2nd 450 kHz
• Sensitivity (at 20 dB SINAD) [Marine]: –2 dBµ EMF (typical)
• [PMR]: –4 dBµ EMF (typical)
• Squelch sensitivity [Marine]: 0 dBµ EMF (typical) (at threshold)
• Intermodulation rejection ratio [Marine]: 68 dB
• [PMR]: 65 dB
• Spurious response rejection ratio: 70 dB
• Adjacent channel selectivity [Marine]: 70 dB
• [PMR]: 70 dB (Wide), 60 dB (Narrow)
• Audio output power [Marine]: 0.2 W at 10% distortion with an 8 Ω load
• [PMR]: 0.35 W at 10% distortion with an 8 Ω load
• Hum and noise [Marine]: 40 dB
• [PMR]: 40 dB (Wide), 34 dB (Narrow)

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

Options

Battery Case and Pack

• BP-252 Li-Ion Battery Pack: Voltage: 7.4 V, Capacity: 950 mAh (minimum) / 980 mAh (typical)
• BP-223 Battery Case: Battery case for 6 × AA (LR6) Alkaline cells.

Chargers

• BC-162 Desktop Charger + BC-145S AC Adapter: Used for rapid charging of battery pack. Charging time: approx. 1 to 2 hours

Belt Clips

• MB-103 Belt Clip: The same as supplied with the transceiver.
• MB-86 Swivel Belt Clip: Belt clip for swivel type.
• MB-96F/96N Belt Hanger: MB-96F: Attaches with the supplied belt clip (Not swivel type). MB-96N: Belt hanger for swivel type.

Other Options

• HM-125 Speaker-Microphone: Full sized speaker-microphone including an alligator clip to attach the microphone to your shirt, collar, etc. The HM-125 meets IPX7 requirements for waterproof protection. However, once it has been dropped, the IP rating cannot be guaranteed because of possible damage to its case or the waterproof seal.
• HS-94/HS-95/HS-97 Headset + OPC-1392 Headset Adapter: HS-94: Ear-piece type, HS-95: Neck-arm type, HS-97: Throat microphone

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

Quick Reference

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

(Instructions for cutting and folding a card-sized guide)

Channel Selection (pgs. 7, 8, 10)

• Channel 16 (p. 7)
• Call channel (p. 7)
• International/USA/ATIS and LAND channels (p. 8)
• Call channel programming (p. 10)

SET MODE (pgs. 16–21)

DUALWATCH/TRI-WATCH (p. 14)

TAG CHANNELS (p. 13)

LOCK FUNCTION (p. 10)

SQUELCH LEVEL (p. 11)

MONITOR FUNCTION (p. 10)

SCAN (pgs. 12, 13)

About Doc

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

(Warning symbol explanation: equipment operates in non-harmonised frequency bands and/or may be subject to licensing conditions. Check for correct version/programming for national licensing requirements.)

Declaration of Conformity

We Icom Inc. Japan 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.

Kind of equipment: VHF MARINE TRANSCEIVER

Type-designation: IC-M90E

Version (where applicable):

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

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

(Details about Düsseldorf, date, authorized representative, signature)

Intended Country of Use

(List of countries with checkboxes)

A-6389H-1EU-1 Printed in Japan ©2004-2009 Icom Inc.