IC-R20 Reset & Troubleshooting

Summary: How to reset the IC-R20, and fixes for common problems.

Resets

If odd information shows (for example at first power-up, from static electricity), turn the power off, wait a few seconds and turn it on again. If that doesn’t help:

• Partial reset: hold [VFO MHz] while turning the power on. Resets the VFO frequency, VFO settings and set mode contents without clearing the memory.
• All reset: hold [VFO MHz] and [MR S.MW] while turning the power on. This clears all memory and initialises every value, including the TV channel skip setting. Back up with the CS-R20 first.

Troubleshooting

• No power – the batteries are exhausted (replace them or charge the pack); the polarity is reversed.
• No sound from the speaker – volume too low; the squelch too tight; a different tone is selected in the tone squelch (turn the tone function off).
• Sensitivity is low and only strong signals are heard – the attenuator is on (hold [REWIND/ATT] to turn it off); the RF gain is too low for SSB/CW (hold [RF GAIN] and choose MAX).
• The frequency can’t be set – the lock function is on (hold [. LOCK]).
• No beep – the beep is off or its level too low (set mode).
• Receive audio is distorted – the operating mode isn’t right (push [MODE SCAN] to choose the correct one).
• A desired set mode item can’t be selected – the EXPAND item is off; turn it on.
• A programmed scan doesn’t start – scan edges aren’t programmed (both edges must differ).
• A memory or bank scan doesn’t start – fewer than two channels are programmed.

Even with everything right, the receiver may receive its own oscillator on some frequencies, giving no reception or only noise, and very strong signals on other frequencies or a high-gain antenna can cause interference.