Global Communication Reach Using the D-STAR Network
The ID-50A is a compact VHF/UHF dual bander with both D-STAR (Digital Smart Technology for Amateur Radio) and FM dual modes. Connecting to the D-STAR network, you can call a friend in another city, or other regions around the world with the ID-50A. Smart functions such as Band Scope and Picture Sharing function enhance your QSO experience. Enjoy worldwide communications through D-STAR network.
Easy D-STAR Settings for Beginners
The DR function makes communications using D-STAR repeaters easier and simple. Just selecting “FROM”(access repeater) and “TO” (destination), you can make QSO calls including Local Area call, Gateway call, and Simplex call. Combined with the GPS function, you can make selection of a local repeater available based on your location. In addition, the DR function supports reflector linking controls.
Share Picture Function* to Expand the Fun of QSOs
You can share pictures with each other in the DV mode. Photos on your Android™ devices can be edited and shared on the picture utility software, ST-ID50A. Utilizing windows PC through a microSD card or a USB cable is also available with the ST-ID50W. It is possible to check your pictures on the ID-50A display before sending it to others. Enjoy sharing pictures together with voice messages.
* Share Picture function requires the optional picture utility software ST-ID50A (on Google Play™) or ST-ID50W (Download from Icom website) and user supplied USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable.
Build Your Own Internet Gateway
Even in the area with no D-STAR repeaters, build your own internet gateway (using Terminal mode and Access Point mode*) to access the D-STAR network virtually anywhere. Building an Access Point is easy, by connecting your ID-50A to a PC or an Android™ device connected to the internet, you will be able to make another D-STAR radio user to communicate through the D-STAR network over the air.
- The RS-MS3W optional software (Download from Icom website) and user supplied USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable are required for Access Point mode. The RS-MS3A optional application software (Download on Google Play™) and user supplied USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable are required for Terminal mode.
- Terminal and Access Point modes are compatible with the Icom RS-RP3 Gateway Software. If your D-STAR repeater is running G1 or G2 software, ask the repeater administrator to contact the local Icom Distributor to upgrade the software.
- You need an Internet connection with an IPv4 Global IP address. If you use a cellular system, you need an IPv4 Global IP address assigned to your Android™ device.
Easily Find Active Channels by Sight
The Band Scope with Waterfall display helps you to see band conditions in more detail and find active channels or an open frequency. The Waterfall display shows presence or absence of signals and even the signal level. The Band Scope mode is usable in the Center mode, Fixed mode, and Fixed scroll mode. You can enjoy efficient and smart operations with it.
Enjoy D-STAR Text Message Communication
By installing RS-MS1A App on your Android™ device, you can easily send text messages using your device’s keyboard to enter text. Also the RS-MS1A can remotely control the transceiver operation and set various functions from your Android™ device.
Reliable To Use in Rainy or Humid Environments
The ID-50A features superior IPX7 waterproofing and pro-grade construction. You can enjoy outdoor activities with it, even in harsh environments.
Double QSO Opportunities with Dualwatch
The Dualwatch function* enables monitoring VHF/VHF, VHF/UHF and UHF/UHF bands at the same time. You can quickly respond to a call from the Main and Sub bands.
* DV/DV mode cannot be listened at the same time.
VHF Airband and FM Broadcast Receiver
FM broadcast and Airband can be listened to. You can enjoy receiving variety of channels.
Various Data Saving on a MicroSD Card
A microSD card (up to 32 GB) can store QSO Recording, TX Voice Memory, pictures, QSOs and GPS log data. Moreover, Firmware upgrades, Repeater lists, and other personal settings can be saved and uploaded into the ID-50A radio.
Find Nearby Repeaters at a New Location
With the built-in GPS, your location and current Grid Square information can be checked by other stations. You can check the distance to the other stations as well. Various GPS functions are usable with the GPS location data, such as Position Auto Reply, Near Repeater Search, and GPS log functions.
Charging with a USB Type-C™ Connector
The ID-50A has a USB Type-C™ port which is widely used in the industry. It is a multi-function USB port for charging as well as PC programming, read/write contents to the microSD card, Terminal/Access Point mode support, and CI-V control.
* Use a user-supplied USB cable for charging. USB PD is not supported.
Same Optional Accessories Can Be Shared with the ID-52/ID-51/ID-31 Series Transceivers
Some optional accessories for the ID-52/ID-51/ID-31 series transceivers can be used for ID-50A. Moreover, the large capacity battery pack, BP-307 from the IC-705 is compatible with ID-50A as well. If you own these models, you can take advantage of sharing accessories.
*Battery packs only from IC-705
User-friendly Menu Icons
Large icons are adopted for Menu display. It supports quick recognition and smooth operations.
High Visible LCD with Backlight Function
The ID-50A’s large full dot LCD shows graphical information with easy-to-read characters and icons. Both main and sub frequencies can be displayed at the same time. In addition, the LCD backlight helps you to use in the dark place.
Easy-to-see Single Band Mode
Frequencies on the display are easy to see from a distance. Compared to ID-51A, ID-50A using big and bold characters. You can enjoy easy Single Band Mode with a simple operation and high visibility.
QSO Logs in CSV Data Format
Frequencies, modes, and GPS logs can be saved in the CSV data format. Various kinds of QSO information can be downloaded and easily managed.
750 mW Loud Audio Output Power
Built-in 750mW powerful audio output. The internal speaker provides louder and clearer audio.
Other Features
- DV fast data mode uses data in place of voice frames
- Voice Recorder function
- External DC power jack
- Weather channel receive (USA/CAN)
- 8 hours operating time with the supplied BP-272 battery, 12.5 hours with the optional BP-307 battery