A: ONLY if you purchase a separate power converter that will convert 24 Volt DC into 12 Volt DC. All Icom handheld airband radios, as well as the IC-A200 panel mount are designed to operate with 12 V power systems only. Connecting them to 24 Volts will result in immediate failure of the radio due to over voltage. It may even damage the radios beyond repair. The only Icom airband radio designed to operate in 12 Volt and 24 Volt environments is the new IC-A110 base/mobile transceiver.

Q: I've just installed a brand new Icom IC-A200 panel mount airband transceiver, and it doesn't work! Why?

A: Faulty installation is by far number one reason why IC-A200 radios fail. (Over voltage being number two, see above Q/A.) We strongly suggest that the installation of cockpit panel mounted radios is performed by qualified personnel. If the unit was already installed, we recommend that a qualified electronics or avionics tech reviews the installation.

Q: The range of my Icom handheld radio seems reduced when I'm using it inside the cockpit. Why?

A: The cockpit, and the airframe itself, act as a radio wave shield when the radio is operated with the provided portable antenna. Use of the external, fuselage mounted antenna is strongly suggested.

Q: My Icom handheld navcom is not picking up VOR signals, unless I'm right on top of the VOR!

A: Portable antenna included with the IC-A22 and IC-A22 Sport should only be used for communications. Separate antenna, preferably fuselage mounted, is required for good VOR reception.

Q: What is the difference between the IC-A3/A22 and the IC-A3/A22 Sport?

A: Both regular versions and Sport versions of the IC-A22 and the IC-A3 are virtually identical, built on the same production line. The only difference is in the accessories which ship with these units. The IC-A3 and the IC-A22 come with rechargeable Ni-Cd batteries, battery charger, headset adapter and a carrying case. The IC-A3 Sport and the IC-A22 Sport utilize AA Alkaline batteries for power, and come with an empty AA Alkaline battery case. Sport versions do not come with the battery charger, headset adapter or a carrying case. Also, Sport versions have a lower price.

Q: What is the difference between the IC-A4 and the IC-A4 Sport?

A: See above Q/A

Q: Can you tell me how to expand transmit coverage of my Icom radio?

A: No. This would violate FCC regulations.

Q: Can I modify an amateur VHF radio, or a marine VHF band radio for operation on the aircraft band?

A: No. Such modifications would violate both FCC and FAA rules. Besides, AM modulation is used on the aircraft band (118-136 MHz) while most other VHF radio services operate FM. Simply expanding the transmit frequency into the aircraft band is not enough as both receiving and transmitting modes of the modified FM radio have to be changed to AM. Such modifications would be extensive, not cost effective, and illegal.