The Sony ICF-SW22 is a compact and versatile 9-band receiver designed for global listening. This service manual provides comprehensive details for maintenance, repair, and operation, covering various models including AEP, UK, E, Chinese, and Tourist versions.
Function Description
The ICF-SW22 functions as a multi-band radio, capable of receiving FM, MW (Medium Wave), and SW (Short Wave) broadcasts. Its primary purpose is to provide access to a wide range of radio stations, from local FM programs to international shortwave transmissions. The device incorporates a band spread system to facilitate easy and precise tuning of shortwave stations, a feature particularly useful for listeners exploring distant broadcasts. A dual conversion circuit is integrated to effectively reduce interference on the shortwave bands, enhancing reception clarity. The radio is designed for portability, making it suitable for both home use and travel. It includes an earphone jack for private listening and a TONE selector (MUSIC/NEWS) to optimize audio output for different content types. The unit is powered by two R6 (size AA) batteries, offering a practical solution for on-the-go listening.
Important Technical Specifications
Frequency Range:
- FM: 87.6-107.5 MHz (AEP, UK, Italian, Saudi Arabia Model); 76-108 MHz (E, Tourist Model)
- MW: 531-1602 kHz (AEP, UK, Italian, Saudi Arabia Model); 530-1710 kHz (E, Tourist Model)
- SW1: 5.775-6.425 MHz
- SW2: 6.875-7.525 MHz
- SW3: 9.375-10.025 MHz
- SW4: 11.615-12.265 MHz
- SW5: 15.00-15.65 MHz
- SW6: 17.50-18.15 MHz
- SW7: 21.325-21.975 MHz
Intermediate Frequencies (IF):
- FM: 10.7 MHz
- SW: 1st IF: 10.7 MHz, 2nd IF: 455 kHz
- MW: 455 kHz
Speaker:
- Approx. ø 40 mm (1 5/8 inches)
- Impedance: 7.2 Ω
- Power Output: 100 mW (at 10% harmonic distortion)
Output:
Power Requirements:
- 3 V DC, two R6 (size AA) batteries
Battery Life:
- Approx. 22 hours with Sony SUM-3 (NS) batteries
Dimensions (w/h/d):
- Approx. 116.5 x 72.5 x 28 mm (4 1/2 x 2 7/8 x 1 1/8 inches)
Mass:
- Approx. 200 g (7.1 oz) including batteries
Accessories Supplied:
- Short wave guide (1)
- For UK, E, Tourist, Italian, Saudi Arabia Model: Earphone, carrying case
Usage Features
The ICF-SW22 is designed for user-friendly operation with several intuitive features:
- Band Selection: The radio features distinct band selectors and indicators for FM, SW, and MW, allowing users to easily switch between different frequency ranges. The unit powers on automatically when a band selector is chosen.
- Tuning: A large TUNING dial enables precise station selection. A TUNE indicator lights up when a strong signal is received, assisting users in finding clear broadcasts. For shortwave reception, an additional SW BAND selector allows for fine-tuning within the shortwave spectrum.
- Volume Control: A dedicated VOLUME dial provides convenient adjustment of the audio output level.
- Audio Tone: The TONE (MUSIC/NEWS) selector allows users to optimize the audio quality for either music or news content, enhancing the listening experience.
- Portability: Its compact size and lightweight design, coupled with battery power, make it highly portable. A hand strap is included for easy carrying.
- HOLD Switch: A HOLD switch prevents accidental changes to functions or accidental power-on, which is particularly useful when carrying the radio.
- Antenna Optimization:
- FM: The telescopic antenna should be extended for better reception.
- SW: The telescopic antenna should be stood vertically for optimal shortwave reception.
- MW: The unit should be rotated horizontally to achieve optimum reception, utilizing its built-in ferrite bar antenna.
- Power Off: A dedicated OFF button allows for easy power-down of the radio.
- Battery Management: The manual provides clear instructions on installing batteries with correct polarity and advises on when to replace them (when band indicators glow faintly or sound becomes distorted). It also recommends removing batteries during long periods of non-use to prevent damage from leakage.
Maintenance Features
The service manual outlines detailed procedures for electrical adjustments and disassembly, crucial for maintaining and repairing the ICF-SW22:
- Disassembly: Step-by-step instructions are provided for disassembling the front and rear cabinets, including careful handling of claws to prevent breakage. Procedures for setting the dial pointer are also detailed, ensuring accurate frequency display after reassembly.
- Electrical Adjustments: Comprehensive electrical adjustment procedures are given for FM, MW, and SW bands. These include:
- MW IF Adjustment: Adjusting T2 for maximum VTVM reading at 455kHz.
- MW Frequency Coverage Adjustment: Adjusting L17 and CT11-3 for maximum VTVM reading at 520kHz and 1,650kHz (1,750kHz for E, Tourist model).
- MW Tracking Adjustment: Adjusting L14 and CT11-4 for maximum VTVM reading at 620kHz and 1,400kHz.
- SW IF (1) Adjustment: Adjusting T1 for maximum VTVM reading at 10.6MHz.
- SW IF (2) Adjustment: Adjusting T3 for maximum VTVM reading at 455kHz.
- SW1 Frequency Coverage Adjustment: Adjusting T4 and CT1 for maximum VTVM reading at 5.75MHz and 6.45MHz.
- SW Tracking Adjustments (SW1-SW7): Adjusting L1 through L7 for maximum VTVM reading at specific frequencies (e.g., L1 for 6.1MHz, L2 for 7.2MHz, etc.). The manual emphasizes repeating these adjustments several times and performing frequency coverage and tracking adjustments using trimmer capacitors. It also notes that SW1 to 7 tracking adjustment frequencies are in line on the scale, advising to adjust SW 6.1MHz first, then SW2 to 7 without moving the dial pointer.
- FM Frequency Coverage Adjustment: Adjusting L16 and CT11-2 for maximum VTVM reading at 87.35MHz (75.0MHz) and 108.05MHz (109.5MHz).
- FM Tracking Adjustment: Adjusting L15 and CT11-1 for maximum VTVM reading at 87.35MHz (80MHz) and 108.05MHz (104MHz).
- Parts Arrangement Diagrams: Detailed diagrams of printed wiring boards (Main Board and Switch Board) are provided, showing the location of semiconductors, ICs, and other components, which is essential for troubleshooting and component replacement.
- Exploded View: An exploded view diagram illustrates the mechanical parts and their assembly, aiding in the correct reassembly of the unit.
- Electrical Parts List: A comprehensive list of all electrical components, including resistors, capacitors, filters, connectors, trimmers, diodes, ICs, coils, and switches, is provided with part numbers, descriptions, and remarks. This list is critical for ordering replacement parts.
- Hardware List: A list of screws and other hardware components is included.
- Accessories & Packing Materials: Details on supplied accessories and packing materials are also provided.
The manual also highlights that design and specifications are subject to change without notice, and some parts may be standardized, differing slightly from original components. Items marked with an asterisk are not typically stocked and may require special ordering.
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