IC-R20 Getting Started: Antenna, Strap, Belt Clip & Turning On

Summary: Attaching the accessories and turning the IC-R20 on for the first time.

Attaching Accessories

• Antenna: insert the supplied antenna into the BNC connector and screw it down. Third-party antennas may improve performance.
• Hand strap: slide it through the loop at the top of the rear panel.
• Belt clip: fit it with the supplied screws and a Phillips screwdriver.
• Batteries: see IC-R20 Batteries, Charging & Power.

Turning On and Setting Up

1. Make sure a charged BP-206 or fresh alkaline batteries are installed.
2. Hold [POWER] for 1 second.
3. Set the volume: rotate [L-DIAL] or push the UP/DOWN keys (39 levels; the display shows the level).
4. Set the frequency (see IC-R20 Tuning: Bands, Modes, Frequencies & Tuning Steps).
5. Set the squelch: while pushing [SQL], rotate [R-DIAL]. The first click shows the current level. LEVEL 1 is loose, LEVEL 9 tight, AUTO adjusts automatically by counting noise pulses and OPEN is continuously open.
6. When a signal arrives the squelch opens and the S-meter shows its strength.

Convenient Basics

• Monitor: push and hold [SQL] to listen with the squelch open.
• Lock: hold [. LOCK] for 1 second to stop accidental changes (see IC-R20 Receiving: Squelch, Attenuator, RF Gain & Locks).

Note on Antennas

The supplied or third-party antenna must be connected to receive anything other than the AM and FM broadcast bands (which can use the bar antenna and earphone cable; see IC-R20 Duplex, AFC, Noise Functions & Antennas).