IC-R15 Firmware Updates & Maintenance

Summary: How to check and update the IC-R15’s firmware from a microSD card, and how to look after the receiver.

Check the Version

MENU, SET, Others, Information, Version. The version also shows briefly when you turn the receiver on.

Update the Firmware

Updating adds functions and can improve performance. Download the latest file for the IC-R15 from the Firmware/Software section of www.icomjapan.com/support (accept the terms and download). Opening the download creates a folder containing R15*.dat.

Do not turn the receiver off during the update. If the update is interrupted (power off or power failure) the firmware can be damaged, and the receiver would need to go back to an Icom distributor for a repair that isn’t covered by warranty. Fully charge the battery first.

1. Format the microSD card in the receiver (see IC-R15 Getting Started: Accessories, microSD Card & First Steps).
2. Copy the downloaded firmware data into the card’s IC-R15 folder on a PC (or use SD Card Mode).
3. Put the card in the receiver.
4. MENU, SET, SD Card, Firmware Update.
5. Read the precautions, choose YES. A backup file is made on the card and the firmware list appears.
6. Choose the firmware (R15 plus the release number), read the final precautions and choose YES.
7. When “Firmware updating has completed.” shows, the receiver restarts.

Maintenance

• Clean with a soft, dry cloth; never use benzine, alcohol or harsh solvents.
• After exposure to salt water, clean the receiver thoroughly in fresh water and dry it. Salt crystals can make the keys and switches unusable and corrode the battery terminals.
• If the waterproofing looks damaged, clean it with a soft damp cloth and dry it, and ask your dealer. It may be lost if the case, jack cap or cover is cracked or broken, or after a drop. The IPX7 rating applies only with the BP-287 battery pack, antenna, jack cover, [USB] cover and [microSD] slot cover fitted.
• Don’t leave the receiver in direct sunlight or outside -20 to +60 C.
• Remove the battery for long-term storage, since a small current always flows.
• Small dark or light dots on the LCD are normal.
• Don’t change internal settings; the warranty doesn’t cover problems from unauthorised adjustments.
• Surface streaks called “weld lines” are from moulding and aren’t cracks.

Operating Notes

• On some frequencies the receiver can receive its own oscillator, giving no reception or only noise.
• Very strong signals on other frequencies, or a high-gain external antenna, can cause interference.
• You may hear spurious signals from the receiver’s own circuits; they aren’t a fault. Charging can also cause noise, so turn the receiver off to charge.