Icom
ID-5100A Deluxe Mobile Transceiver
Best dual-band mobile radio for serious digital communication enthusiasts.
The Icom ID-5100A is an advanced VHF/UHF dual-band mobile radio built for serious radio enthusiasts. It features D-STAR digital communication and a user-friendly 5.5-inch touch screen for effortless operation. Integrated GPS provides position data, while optional Bluetooth allows wireless connectivity. Enjoy simultaneous FM/FM and FM/DV reception, dual DV monitoring, and faster data transfer with the DV fast data mode. This radio offers robust performance and extensive features for a versatile communication experience, designed for reliability and ease of use.
$499.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
13
/ 300
#13 in Two-Way Radios
Price vs Category Average
+1%
Above average
Output Power
50155
/ W, W, W
Who it's for
- Global communicators seeking advanced digital connectivity
- Operators prioritizing ease of use and menu navigation
- Active monitors tracking multiple bands simultaneously
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers preferring basic analog equipment
- Novice operators intimidated by complex digital configurations
- Drivers with limited dashboard space for mounting
Performance breakdown
Interface Usability
The large touch screen makes navigating complex menus feel remarkably intuitive.
Digital Versatility
D-STAR integration offers a robust framework for modern digital voice communication.
Build Durability
MIL-STD-810G certification ensures reliable performance in demanding mobile environments.
Signal Flexibility
Simultaneous dual-band monitoring provides exceptional situational awareness for active operators.
Memory Capacity
Extensive channel storage handles even the most complex repeater network configurations.
Data Throughput
DV fast data mode significantly improves efficiency for digital information transfers.
Key Specs
Output Power
50W, 15W, 5W
RX Frequencies
118-174, 375-550MHz
Memory Channels
1,000 regular, 4 call, 50 program scan edges, 1200 repeater memories
Display
5.5 inch (320 × 128 pixel) touch screen
GPS Antenna
Integrated in remote head
Warranty
1 Year Factory Warranty
Power Source Type
AC Adapter
Frequency Band Type
VHF, UHF
Features
- Intuitive 5.5-inch touch screen interface
- Simultaneous FM/FM and FM/DV receive
- Built-in GPS for position data
- Optional Bluetooth for wireless connectivity
- DV fast data mode for quicker transfers
- D-STAR digital communication support
- SD card slot for data storage
- MIL-STD-810G certified for durability
What customers say
The Icom ID-5100A is highly regarded by serious amateur radio operators, especially those using D-STAR. Users consistently praise the large, responsive touchscreen display for simplifying operation and navigation. Dual band performance is robust, and both transmitted and received audio quality is frequently noted as crystal clear. The remote head capability offers flexible mobile installation options. While the radio delivers exceptional features, new users often face a steep learning curve mastering the advanced D-STAR settings. For operators focused on digital integration and ease of use via the screen, this transceiver is considered a benchmark product delivering top tier performance and quality.
Know before you buy
Yes, the radio supports simultaneous FM/FM and FM/DV reception, allowing you to monitor two bands at once. This is particularly useful for keeping an eye on both local traffic and D-STAR activity simultaneously.
The Bluetooth capability is optional. You will need to purchase the appropriate Icom Bluetooth unit separately to enable wireless headset connectivity and remote control features.
Yes, the ID-5100A features a DV fast data mode that utilizes the data portion of the voice frame to provide significantly faster data transfer speeds compared to standard D-STAR modes.
With 1,000 regular memory channels and 1,200 repeater memories, the radio includes an SD card slot for easy data storage and configuration backups. You can also use the included CS-5100 programming software to manage your channel lists more efficiently from a computer.
The 5.5-inch touch screen is designed for intuitive navigation, though it is best suited for quick adjustments. For safer operation while mobile, many users prefer to program frequently used channels into the memory banks for rapid access via the microphone or controller buttons.
The GPS antenna is integrated directly into the remote controller head. This ensures a clear view of the sky for better satellite acquisition without needing to mount the main radio chassis in a specific location.
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