Icom Ic V90

How does the V90 stack up against contemporaries?

The Verdict: The IC-V90 is not a competitor to the Baofeng; it is in a different weight class. It competes with commercial radios like the Yaesu Vertex Standard series. Its closest sibling is actually the Icom IC-F3021, sharing a similar chassis but differing in certification and software lockouts.

The Icom IC-V90 is not for everyone. If you need a cheap emergency radio for the glovebox, buy a Baofeng. If you want a wide-band receiver, buy a Yaesu VX-6R.

However, if you want a purpose-built 2-meter FM tank that laughs at water, mud, and abuse, the IC-V90 is the undisputed king. It represents an era of "specsmanship" focused on longevity rather than feature lists.

The Takeaway: If you see an Icom IC-V90 at a hamfest with a working display and no battery corrosion, buy it immediately. Replace the battery with a modern Li-ion pack, and you will own a handheld that will likely outlive every other radio in your shack.

For the hiker, the sailor, and the purest who believes 2 meters is all you need, the Icom IC-V90 remains immortal.

Have you used a V90 recently? Share your restoration tips in the comments below. Looking for parts? Check eBay for "IC-V90 battery eliminator" or "BP-217 Li-ion." Icom ic v90

Introduction

The Icom IC-V90 is a mobile amateur radio transceiver designed for use in vehicles. It's a popular choice among ham radio operators due to its reliability, features, and ease of use. In this text, we'll take a closer look at the IC-V90's specifications, features, and capabilities.

Specifications

The Icom IC-V90 is a dual-band, dual-mode transceiver that operates on both VHF (136-174 MHz) and UHF (400-470 MHz) frequencies. It supports both FM and digital modes, including DCS (Digital Coded Squelch) and CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Controlled Squelch System).

Key specifications include:

Features

The IC-V90 comes with a range of features that make it a versatile and user-friendly radio. Some of its notable features include: How does the V90 stack up against contemporaries

Design and User Interface

The IC-V90 has a compact design that's suitable for installation in most vehicles. The radio measures 6.5 inches wide, 1.8 inches tall, and 9.5 inches deep. The front panel features a backlit LCD display, a channel selector, and a range of buttons for controlling the radio.

The user interface is intuitive and easy to use, with a menu system that allows users to access various settings and features. The radio also comes with a remote control, allowing users to adjust settings and change channels without taking their eyes off the road.

Conclusion

The Icom IC-V90 is a reliable and feature-rich mobile amateur radio transceiver that's suitable for use in a variety of applications. Its dual-band operation, digital signal processing, and support for CTCSS and DCS make it a popular choice among ham radio operators. With its compact design and user-friendly interface, the IC-V90 is an excellent option for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable mobile radio.

Note: The Icom IC-V90 was discontinued several years ago. This review is based on historical performance, user reports from the era, and its relevance to the current used/collector market.

Warning: Erases all memories & settings. The Icom IC-V90 is not for everyone

The receiver utilizes a double-conversion superheterodyne architecture.

The first thing you notice when holding an Icom IC-V90 is the heft. It weighs approximately 390 grams (13.7 oz) with the standard battery pack—significantly heavier than a modern Baofeng or Yaesu FT-4X. However, this weight is reassuring.

The antenna connection is a standard SMA (female) connector, making it compatible with modern aftermarket antennas like the Diamond SRH77CA.

This is where the IC-V90 shines. The chassis is die-cast aluminum, not plastic. It feels like a solid billet of metal in your hand. The front panel is polycarbonate with a distinct "rubberized" texture.

The Good:

The Bad: