The Icom ID 31E is a compact and lightweight handheld transceiver that offers a wide range of features and specifications. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced radio operator, this device is designed to meet your communication needs.
One of the standout features of the ID 31E is its D-STAR capability. D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio) is a digital voice and data protocol that provides clear and reliable communication. With the ID 31E, you can connect to D-STAR repeaters and reflectors, allowing you to communicate with other D-STAR users around the world.
In addition to its D-STAR capability, the ID 31E also supports analog FM mode. This means that you can use the device to communicate with other analog FM radios, making it versatile and compatible with different communication systems.
The ID 31E is equipped with a built-in GPS receiver, which allows you to view your current position and navigate to waypoints. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor activities such as hiking or geocaching, where knowing your exact location is essential.
Compact Design and Lightweight
The Icom ID 31E is known for its compact design and lightweight construction, making it a highly portable and convenient option for users. With its small size and lightweight build, it can easily be carried around without causing any discomfort or inconvenience.
Despite its compact size, the ID 31E doesn’t compromise on performance or functionality. It is packed with features that make it a powerful and reliable communication device.
Whether you are hiking, camping, or participating in outdoor activities, the compact design of the ID 31E ensures that it won’t weigh you down. You can easily slip it into your pocket or attach it to your belt without feeling burdened by its presence.
Additionally, the lightweight construction of the ID 31E makes it ideal for long periods of use. You can comfortably hold it in your hand or operate it for extended periods without experiencing any fatigue or discomfort.
Overall, the compact design and lightweight nature of the Icom ID 31E make it a top choice for individuals who value portability and convenience. Whether you are a professional or a hobbyist, this radio will meet your communication needs while being easy to carry around.
Dual Band Operation
The Icom ID 31E is equipped with dual band operation, allowing users to communicate on both the VHF and UHF bands. This feature provides flexibility and convenience, as it enables users to choose the band that best suits their needs and the specific conditions of their environment.
With dual band operation, users can take advantage of the different characteristics and propagation properties of the VHF and UHF bands. The VHF band, with its longer wavelength, is ideal for long-range communication and is less affected by obstacles such as buildings and trees. On the other hand, the UHF band, with its shorter wavelength, is better suited for communication in urban areas and indoors, as it can penetrate obstacles more effectively.
By having access to both bands, users can ensure reliable communication in various scenarios. For example, in a rural setting with few obstacles, the VHF band can provide extended range and better signal quality. In contrast, in a densely populated urban area with many obstacles, the UHF band can offer improved coverage and signal penetration.
Benefits of Dual Band Operation:
1. Flexibility: The ability to switch between VHF and UHF bands allows users to adapt to different communication requirements and environments.
2. Extended Range: The VHF band provides longer range communication, making it suitable for outdoor activities and rural areas.
3. Better Coverage: The UHF band offers improved coverage in urban areas and indoors, where obstacles can affect signal propagation.
4. Enhanced Signal Quality: By selecting the appropriate band, users can ensure clear and reliable communication, even in challenging conditions.
Overall, the dual band operation of the Icom ID 31E enhances the versatility and performance of the radio, making it a valuable tool for a wide range of users, from outdoor enthusiasts to professionals in various industries.
Wide Frequency Coverage
The Icom ID 31E offers a wide frequency coverage, allowing users to communicate on various bands. It supports both VHF and UHF bands, providing flexibility in communication options. With a frequency range of 144-146 MHz and 430-440 MHz, this radio is suitable for a wide range of applications.
Additionally, the wide frequency coverage of the Icom ID 31E makes it compatible with a variety of repeaters and other communication systems. This means that you can easily connect with other users and extend your communication range, making it an ideal choice for both local and long-distance communication.
Furthermore, the wide frequency coverage of the Icom ID 31E enables you to explore different bands and frequencies, opening up opportunities for new experiences and connections. Whether you are interested in amateur radio, public safety communication, or any other field that requires reliable communication, the wide frequency coverage of this radio ensures that you have the flexibility to adapt to different situations and requirements.
D-STAR Digital Voice and Data Communication
The Icom ID 31E is equipped with D-STAR (Digital Smart Technologies for Amateur Radio) digital voice and data communication capabilities. This feature allows users to enjoy clear and reliable communication over long distances.
D-STAR technology utilizes digital modulation and encoding to provide superior audio quality compared to traditional analog communication systems. It also offers enhanced data transmission capabilities, allowing users to send and receive text messages, images, and GPS location information.
With D-STAR, users can connect to local and worldwide D-STAR repeaters, enabling communication with other amateur radio operators around the globe. The ID 31E supports both simplex and duplex operation, providing flexibility in establishing communication links.
In addition to voice communication, the ID 31E supports data communication through its built-in GPS receiver. This allows users to share their real-time GPS coordinates with other D-STAR users, making it easier to coordinate activities and locate each other during outdoor adventures or emergency situations.
The ID 31E also supports D-STAR’s unique call sign routing feature, which allows users to make direct calls to specific individuals or groups. This feature eliminates the need for complicated frequency coordination and simplifies the process of establishing communication links.
Overall, the D-STAR digital voice and data communication capabilities of the Icom ID 31E make it a powerful and versatile tool for amateur radio operators. Whether you’re participating in local nets, exploring remote areas, or engaging in emergency communications, the ID 31E’s D-STAR functionality ensures reliable and efficient communication.
Built-in GPS Receiver
The Icom ID 31E is equipped with a built-in GPS receiver, allowing users to have access to accurate positioning information. This feature is especially useful for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and emergency responders who need to navigate through unfamiliar terrain.
The GPS receiver provides real-time latitude and longitude coordinates, as well as altitude information. This allows users to track their own location and share it with others. It also enables the radio to display distance and direction to other stations, making it easier to communicate and coordinate activities.
In addition to providing location information, the built-in GPS receiver also supports automatic time and date synchronization. This ensures that the radio’s clock is always accurate, even when traveling across different time zones.
The GPS receiver in the Icom ID 31E is highly sensitive and can acquire satellite signals quickly, even in challenging environments. It supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, providing users with a wider coverage and better positioning accuracy.
To make the most out of the built-in GPS receiver, the radio is compatible with various mapping software and applications. Users can connect the radio to a computer or smartphone and view their location on a map, plan routes, and track their movements.
Overall, the built-in GPS receiver in the Icom ID 31E enhances the functionality and versatility of the radio. It adds a new dimension to communication by providing accurate positioning information, improving safety, and enabling efficient coordination in various outdoor and emergency situations.
IPX7 Waterproof Rating
The Icom ID 31E handheld radio is equipped with an IPX7 waterproof rating, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions and environments. This rating means that the radio can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without suffering any damage.
Whether you are out in the rain, near a body of water, or working in a wet environment, you can rely on the Icom ID 31E to withstand the elements. Its waterproof design ensures that the radio remains functional and reliable even in challenging conditions.
The IPX7 waterproof rating of the Icom ID 31E provides peace of mind to users who rely on their radios for communication in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, boating, and more. You can confidently take this radio with you on your adventures, knowing that it will continue to perform even if it gets wet.
In addition to its waterproof rating, the Icom ID 31E also features a rugged construction that enhances its durability. It is built to withstand shocks, vibrations, and drops, ensuring that it can handle the rigors of outdoor use.
Overall, the IPX7 waterproof rating of the Icom ID 31E is a valuable feature that sets it apart from other handheld radios on the market. Its ability to withstand water immersion makes it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts, professionals working in challenging environments, and anyone who needs a durable and waterproof communication device.
Long Battery Life
The Icom ID 31E is equipped with a long-lasting battery that ensures extended usage without the need for frequent recharging. This is especially beneficial for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders, and anyone who needs a reliable communication device in remote areas or during extended periods of time.
The battery life of the ID 31E is impressive, offering up to 5.5 hours of continuous operation on a single charge. This allows users to stay connected and communicate without worrying about running out of power. Whether you’re on a hiking trip, participating in a search and rescue mission, or simply using the radio for everyday communication, the long battery life of the ID 31E ensures that you can rely on it when you need it most.
In addition to the long battery life, the ID 31E also features a battery saver function that helps conserve power when the radio is not in use. This feature automatically puts the radio into a low-power mode, allowing it to last even longer on a single charge. This is particularly useful for situations where charging opportunities are limited or when you need to conserve battery power for an extended period of time.
Overall, the long battery life of the Icom ID 31E makes it a reliable and practical choice for users who require a communication device that can keep up with their demanding needs. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, emergency responder, or simply someone who values reliable communication, the ID 31E’s long battery life ensures that you can stay connected and communicate effectively, no matter where you are.
Multiple Scan Functions
The Icom ID 31E handheld radio is equipped with multiple scan functions, making it a versatile and efficient communication device. With its 128 memory channels, users can easily program and store their favorite frequencies for quick access.
In addition to scanning multiple channels, the ID 31E also offers a variety of scan modes. Users can choose between priority scan, which scans a specific channel at regular intervals, and memory scan, which scans through all programmed channels. The ID 31E also features a tone scan function, which allows users to search for specific tones or codes.
Another useful scan function of the ID 31E is the dual watch feature. This allows users to monitor two channels simultaneously, ensuring that they don’t miss any important communications on either channel. Whether you’re monitoring a repeater frequency and a simplex frequency, or two different simplex frequencies, the dual watch feature of the ID 31E makes it easy to stay connected.
128 Memory Channels
The Icom ID 31E comes equipped with 128 memory channels, allowing users to store and easily access their favorite frequencies. This feature is especially useful for those who frequently switch between different channels or need quick access to specific frequencies.
With the 128 memory channels, users can organize their channels into different groups or categories, making it easier to navigate through their saved frequencies. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who need to monitor multiple channels or frequencies for different purposes, such as amateur radio operators or emergency responders.
Additionally, the memory channels can be programmed with various settings, including frequency, mode, and tone settings. This allows users to customize their channels to their specific needs and preferences.
Benefits of 128 Memory Channels:
- Easy access to favorite frequencies
- Organize channels into groups or categories
- Monitor multiple channels or frequencies
- Customize channels with different settings
Overall, the 128 memory channels feature of the Icom ID 31E provides users with flexibility and convenience in managing and accessing their preferred frequencies. Whether for personal or professional use, this feature enhances the user experience and makes communication more efficient and effective.
Backlit Display
The Icom ID 31E is equipped with a backlit display, which makes it easy to read and operate in low light conditions. Whether you are using the radio indoors or outdoors at night, the backlit display ensures that you can see the information clearly.
The backlit display provides a high level of visibility, even in dark environments. This is especially useful for emergency situations or when you need to quickly access information on the radio. The backlight can be adjusted to different levels of brightness, allowing you to customize it to your preference.
In addition to the backlight, the display on the Icom ID 31E is also easy to navigate. The menu options are clearly labeled, and the display provides clear and concise information about the radio’s settings and functions.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, the backlit display on the Icom ID 31E ensures that you can operate the radio with ease. It eliminates the need to strain your eyes or rely on external light sources to read the display.
Benefits of a Backlit Display
- Enhanced visibility in low light conditions
- Easy navigation and access to information
- Customizable brightness levels
- Improved usability for beginners and experienced users
- Eliminates the need for external light sources
PC Programming Capability
The Icom ID 31E is equipped with PC programming capability, allowing users to easily program and customize their radio settings using a computer. This feature is especially useful for advanced users who want to fine-tune their radio’s performance or for those who prefer the convenience of programming their radio from a computer.
With PC programming capability, users can easily create and edit memory channels, set up scan lists, and customize various settings such as squelch levels, power output, and modulation types. This allows for a highly personalized and optimized radio experience.
In addition, PC programming capability also enables users to easily update the firmware of their Icom ID 31E. Firmware updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features, ensuring that users always have access to the latest advancements in radio technology.
To use the PC programming capability of the Icom ID 31E, users simply need to connect their radio to a computer using a programming cable. The radio is compatible with various programming software, making it easy to find a program that suits individual preferences and needs.
Overall, the PC programming capability of the Icom ID 31E enhances the versatility and usability of the radio, allowing users to fully customize and optimize their radio experience. Whether it’s fine-tuning settings or updating firmware, this feature provides users with the flexibility and convenience they need to get the most out of their radio.
VOX Function
The Icom ID 31E comes equipped with a Voice Operated Exchange (VOX) function, which allows for hands-free operation of the radio. This feature is especially useful for users who need to keep their hands free while communicating, such as hikers, cyclists, or drivers.
With the VOX function enabled, the radio automatically detects the user’s voice and transmits the signal without the need to press the PTT (Push-To-Talk) button. This allows for seamless and convenient communication, ensuring that users can stay connected without any interruptions.
The VOX function on the Icom ID 31E offers adjustable sensitivity levels, allowing users to customize the radio’s response to their voice. This ensures that the radio only transmits when the user speaks, preventing any accidental transmissions and conserving battery life.
Hands-Free Communication
By utilizing the VOX function, users can enjoy hands-free communication, making it easier to multitask or perform other activities while staying connected. Whether you’re hiking through rugged terrain, cycling through busy streets, or driving on the highway, the VOX function allows you to keep your hands on the task at hand while still being able to communicate effectively.
Customizable Sensitivity
The Icom ID 31E offers adjustable sensitivity levels for the VOX function, allowing users to fine-tune the radio’s response to their voice. This ensures that the radio only transmits when the user speaks, preventing any background noise or unintended sounds from triggering the transmission. Users can easily adjust the sensitivity level to suit their environment and communication needs.
Overall, the VOX function on the Icom ID 31E enhances the user experience by providing convenient and hands-free communication. With its customizable sensitivity levels, users can enjoy seamless communication without the need to press any buttons, making it an essential feature for those who require constant connectivity on the go.
Positive Feedback from Users
The Icom ID 31E has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from users who have praised its performance, reliability, and ease of use. Many users have commented on the clear and crisp audio quality of the device, making it ideal for both voice and data communication.
Users have also appreciated the compact design and lightweight nature of the ID 31E, making it easy to carry and use on the go. The dual band operation allows users to access a wide range of frequencies, providing flexibility in communication.
The wide frequency coverage of the ID 31E has also been praised by users, as it allows them to communicate across various bands and frequencies. The built-in GPS receiver is another feature that users have found to be extremely useful, as it provides accurate location information.
One of the standout features of the ID 31E is its IPX7 waterproof rating, which means it can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. This makes it suitable for use in outdoor and wet environments.
Users have also been impressed with the long battery life of the ID 31E, which allows for extended periods of use without the need for frequent recharging. The multiple scan functions and 128 memory channels have also been praised for their convenience and ease of use.
The backlit display of the ID 31E ensures that users can easily read the screen in various lighting conditions, while the PC programming capability allows for easy customization and programming of the device.
The VOX function, which allows for hands-free operation, has also been well-received by users who appreciate the convenience and flexibility it provides.
Over the years, I have amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge, which I eagerly share with fellow radio aficionados. Through my writing and active participation in the amateur radio community, I strive to inspire others and provide valuable insights into this fascinating hobby. Engaging in various radio activities, I continue to learn and grow, constantly amazed by the endless possibilities that radio communication offers.