Icom IC-M57 - User Manual

The Icom IC-M57 is a VHF marine transceiver designed for simple and reliable operation, offering essential communication features for marine environments. This instruction manual provides comprehensive guidance for its use, ensuring maximum performance and adherence to safety regulations.

General Overview and Safety Precautions

The IC-M57 is built to be weather-resistant, provided that its four cover screws are securely tightened, making it suitable for marine conditions. It is crucial to connect the transceiver only to a 12 V DC power source, never exceeding 16 V DC or connecting to an AC power source, to prevent damage. The device should be kept at least 1 meter away from the ship's magnetic navigation compass to avoid interference. To ensure optimal performance and longevity, the transceiver should not be exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures outside the range of -20°C (-4°F) to +60°C (140°F). Children should not be allowed to touch the transceiver, and it should never be immersed in water.

Unpacking and Accessories

Upon unpacking, the IC-M57 package includes several accessories essential for its installation and operation. These include a mounting bracket with four knobs, four M4 flat washers, eight M5 flat washers, four M5 nuts, two 3.5 × 3.0 mm mic hanger screws, and two 10A fuses. Additional accessories comprise a microphone hanger, a DC power cable, four mounting screws, four star washers, four mounting screws, and an external speaker plug. These components facilitate secure mounting and connection of the transceiver within a marine vessel.

Operating Rules and Regulations

Adherence to operating rules is paramount for safe and legal use of the IC-M57. Users must read and keep an up-to-date copy of all regulations pertaining to priority transmissions. When not actively communicating on another channel, Channel 16 must be continuously monitored, as it serves as an emergency, distress, and call channel. False or fraudulent distress calls are strictly prohibited.

Privacy is also a key consideration. Information overheard that is not intended for the user must not be used in any way, and indecent or profane language is prohibited during transmissions.

Radio Licenses

Operating a VHF FM marine transceiver like the IC-M57 requires appropriate licensing. A ship station license is mandatory before transmitting; operating without one is unlawful. Users should contact their dealer or the relevant government agency for a Ship-Radiotelephone License Application. Additionally, an operator's license, often a restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit, is typically required for small vessel operators, especially when the radio is not solely for safety purposes. This permit can usually be obtained by mail and must be posted near the transceiver or kept with the operator. Non-licensed individuals may only use the transceiver if a licensed operator initiates, supervises, and concludes the call, and makes the necessary log entries.

Front Panel Description and Functions

The front panel of the IC-M57 is intuitively designed for ease of use. It features a speaker for audio output and a function display that shows the selected channel number and other relevant information.

The POWER SWITCH/VOLUME CONTROL [PWR/VOL] knob turns the transceiver power ON and OFF and adjusts the speaker volume. The MICROPHONE is used for voice communication, and the PTT (Push-to-talk) SWITCH [PTT] on the microphone is pressed and held to transmit and released to receive.

The SQUELCH CONTROL [SQUELCH] knob is rotated clockwise to eliminate audio noise. A deep clockwise rotation activates the RF attenuator, which helps cut weak signal reception, useful in areas with strong interference.

Dedicated switches provide quick access to key functions:

The CHANNEL 16 SWITCH [CH 16] instantly selects Channel 16 for emergency, distress, and general calling.
The DIAL/MODE SWITCH [D/MODE] allows selection between U.S.A. and international channel sets.
The DUAL WATCH SWITCH [DUAL] initiates and stops the dual watch function, which monitors Channel 16 while the user is on another channel.
The WEATHER CHANNEL SWITCH [WX] selects weather channels, providing access to important weather information.
The DIMMER SWITCH [DIM] controls the backlighting of the function display, turning it ON or OFF for visibility in various lighting conditions.
The TRANSMIT POWER SWITCH [HI/LOW] selects between high and low transmitter power, useful for conserving battery life or reducing interference over short distances.
The CHANNEL SELECTOR knob is used to select the desired operating channel.

Rear Panel Description and Connections

The rear panel houses the essential connectors for power, external audio, and antenna.

The DC POWER CONNECTOR is where the supplied DC power cable connects to an external 12 V power source.
The EXTERNAL SPEAKER JACK is a 4 Ω speaker jack, allowing an external speaker to be connected for enhanced audio output.
The ANTENNA CONNECTOR is designed for connecting an antenna with a PL-259 connector to the transceiver, crucial for transmitting and receiving signals.

Function Display Indicators

The function display provides visual feedback on the transceiver's status:

CHANNEL SYSTEM INDICATORS show the selected channel system (e.g., USA, INT, WX).
The TRANSMIT INDICATOR [TX] appears when the transceiver is transmitting.
The LOW POWER INDICATOR [LOW] appears when low power is selected for transmission.
The CHANNEL INDICATOR displays the currently operating channel.
The DUAL WATCH INDICATOR blinks during dual watch operation, indicating that Channel 16 is being monitored.
The DUPLEX INDICATOR shows when a duplex channel is in use, meaning different frequencies are used for transmit and receive.
The LOW BATTERY INDICATOR warns of a low battery condition, prompting the user to check the boat's dynamo, battery, and connections.

Receiving Operations

Basic receiving operation involves a few simple steps:

Turn the [PWR/VOL] knob clockwise to power ON the transceiver and adjust the volume. Channel 16 will be displayed.
Rotate the [SQUELCH] knob completely counter-clockwise, then slowly rotate it clockwise until the audio noise is just muted.

Channel 16

Channel 16 is critical for emergencies and calls. It can be instantly accessed by pushing [CH 16], turning the power OFF and then ON again, or by hanging the microphone on its hook.

U.S.A. and International Channels

To select a U.S.A. channel:

Ensure the transceiver is in basic operating mode.
Push [D/MODE] once or twice until "USA" appears on the display.
Rotate the channel selector to choose the desired channel.

To select an international channel:

Ensure the transceiver is in basic operating mode.
Push [D/MODE] once or twice until "INT" appears on the display.
Rotate the channel selector to choose the desired channel.

Weather Channels

To select a weather channel:

Ensure the transceiver is in basic operating mode.
Push [WX]; "WX" will appear on the display.
Rotate the channel selector to choose the desired weather channel. Note that weather channels can only be received, not transmitted. The manual lists frequencies for WX 1 through WX 10.

Dual Watch Function

The dual watch function allows monitoring Channel 16 every 2 seconds while using another channel.

Select the desired operating channel (dual watch will not activate if Channel 16 is selected).
Rotate [SQUELCH] until audio noise disappears.
Push [DUAL] to start dual watch; "DUAL" will blink on the display. If a signal is received on Channel 16, dual watch stops on Channel 16 until the signal disappears.
Push [DUAL] again to cancel the dual watch function.

Transmitting Operations

Select the desired operating channel (weather channels cannot be transmitted).
Push [HI/LO] to select transmit power; "LOW" appears if low power is chosen.
Push and hold [PTT] to transmit; "TX" appears on the display. Avoid speaking too loudly into the microphone to prevent audio distortion. The time-out timer automatically returns the transceiver to receive mode after 3 minutes of continuous transmission.
Release [PTT] to receive.

Call Procedures

Proper call procedures are essential:

State your call sign (or vessel name and licensee) at the beginning of each transmission.
State your call sign at the end of any transmission lasting more than 3 minutes.
For long ship-to-shore calls, state your call sign at least once every 15 minutes.
Keep unanswered calls short (under 30 seconds) and wait 2 minutes before repeating a call.

Transmitter Restrictions

Certain channels have restrictions on transmit power:

Channel 13: Momentary high power (USA), No restriction (International).
Channel 15: Receive only (USA), Low power only (International).
Channel 17: Low power only (USA), Low power only (International).
Channel 67: Momentary high power (USA), No restriction (International). To select high power on restricted channels, push and hold [HI/LO], then push [PTT].

Additional Features

Dimmer

The display backlighting can be toggled ON or OFF by pushing the [DIM] switch, enhancing visibility in different lighting conditions.

Low Battery Indicator

A small "b" on the function display indicates a low battery condition. When this appears, check the boat's dynamo, battery, and connections, as the battery may need replacement.

Troubleshooting

The manual provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide for common issues:

No power: Check the power connector pin and replace blown fuses.
No sound from speaker: Rotate [SQUELCH] counter-clockwise and unplug any external speaker.
Low sensitivity/only strong signals audible: Rotate [SQUELCH] counter-clockwise, check the antenna feedline for cuts or short circuits, and clean the antenna connector.
Cannot transmit at high power or at all: Refer to "Transmitter restrictions," or if a weather channel is selected, push [D/MODE] or [CH16].
Displayed channel does not change: If Channel 16 is selected, push [D/MODE] or [WX].
Dual watch not functioning: If Channel 16 is displayed, push [D/MODE] or [WX], then push [DUAL].

Fuse Replacement

The DC power cable contains two 10A fuses. If a fuse blows or the transceiver stops working, identify the cause of the problem and replace the damaged fuses with new ones of the correct rating.

Maintenance and Connections

Connections

The manual includes a diagram illustrating proper connections:

The microphone connects to the front panel, and its hanger can be attached to a suitable surface.
The [EXT SP] jack connects to an external speaker.
The DC power cable (red for positive, black for negative) connects to a 12 V battery. Never use a 24 V battery.
The antenna connects to the ANT connector on the rear panel.
It is recommended to attach a chassis ground to the transceiver.

Important Connection Notes:

Avoid long cable runs to the antenna and power source.
Keep cables as far as possible from electric pumps, generators, and other electronic instruments to minimize interference.
Antenna type and placement are very important for optimal performance. Consult an Icom Dealer for recommendations.

Options

Icom offers several optional accessories to enhance the IC-M57's functionality:

HS-57 HANDSET KIT: Facilitates clear voice communication.
MB-28 FLUSH MOUNT: For mounting the IC-M57 flush into a panel.
SP-10 EXTERNAL SPEAKER: A 4 Ω speaker with a maximum input power of 5 W.
SP-5 EXTERNAL SPEAKER: Another 4 Ω external speaker option.

The Icom IC-M57 is a robust and user-friendly VHF marine transceiver, designed to provide reliable communication for marine enthusiasts and professionals alike. By following the instructions and guidelines in this manual, users can ensure safe, efficient, and long-lasting operation of their device.

Icom IC-M57 Specifications

General

Type	VHF Marine Transceiver
Frequency Range	156.000 - 163.425 MHz
Waterproof Rating	IPX7
Operating Temperature	-20°C to +60°C
Output Power	1W / 5W
Weight	300 g
Modulation	FM (16K0G3E)
Current Consumption	1.5 A (at 5W TX)