Modifications for the ICOM - RogerK

The Icom IC W21AT handi-talkie normally receives two bands: 136 to 174 MHz and 440 to 450 MHz.You can program it to receive 50 to 300 MHz and 300 to 999 MHz.To do this, turn it off, then simultaneously hold down the # and the B keys while turning it on. Keep them pressed for 2 secondsafter turning the rig on.The LCD display will go through a self test, and you'll then have a wideband receiver. It's not very sensitive far from the hambands, but it's handy for listening to 6 Meters or as a portable scanner.Note that this modification does not require any cutting of diodes or rewiring -- it's entirely front panel.This modification is read 952 times.top of page19-07-1998(IC-W2A) IC-W2A Expand frequencyThis is less of a mod than it is a function. To expand the receiver frequency range of the new Icom IC-W2A to 118.00-170.00,322.00-513.00, and 800.000-970.000, do the following:Hold down the Light, B, and # keys while turning the power on.That's actually a four button sequence, since power on is controlled by a keypad button.This modification is read 1120 times.top of page19-07-1998(IC-W2A) IC-W2A Cross Band Repeat FunctionTo access the cross-band repeat function, first perform the extended receive mod by holding down the Light/B/# keys whileturning on the power.To enable cross-band repeat, set each band to the frequency and mode desired. Set the current band to VHF.Press (Function-2) (Function-Enter) and the little "L" indicator will flash. The radio is now in the cross-band repeat mode. Dodisable, press (Function-Enter) again.This modification is read 947 times.top of page19-07-1998(IC-W2A) IC-W2A Extended Transmit ModCall the ICOM parts department ((206) 454-8155) and order a pair of MA133 diodes (P/N 1790000850). These are the threeterminal surface mount diode packages. It is probably not advisable to substitute conventional leaded glass diodes here due tosize restraints.3¦+--------+--------+¦ ¦ ¦¦ +-->|----->|--+ ¦¦ ¦ ¦ ¦+-+-------------+-+¦ ¦1 2The modification involves removing one surface mount component and installing two others. The working parts are extremelysmall and the mod should not be performed unless you are comfortable with working while using a loop eyepiece or othermagnifying device. This is a "surgical" operation. Take all the usual precautions with respect to static electricity, etc.Remove 5 screws holding back on, and two screws on side of case below the PTT switch. Gently pry the unit apart.Inside the unit are two RF "stack" units. The complete RF "stack" is composed of two enclosed sheet metal boxes sandwiched