New 
VHF/UHF DIGITAL TRANSCEIVER

ID-52A PLUS

Level Up Your D-STAR Experience
with Enhanced Bluetooth® Functionality

Usability Has Been Empowered.
Multifunctional Transceiver with D-STAR DV and FM Dual Mode.

The popular ID-52A D-STAR transceiver just gets more useful. Terminal mode and Access Point mode, which previously required a cable connection, can now connect to an Android™ device via Bluetooth® technology. In addition, dual operation of Terminal mode and Simplex/Repeater operations is now possible. Moreover, an industry standard USB Type-C™ port for convenient USB Type-C™ charging is newly adopted. Experience all the advantages with the ID-52A PLUS and enjoy stable long-distance communication using the internet connected D-STAR repeater network.

Multifunctional Digital with DV and FM Dual Mode

Worldwide Communication through the D-STAR Network

The ID-52A PLUS is a VHF/UHF dual bander with D-STAR and FM dual mode functions. The ID-52A PLUS supports conventional FM communications as well as D-STAR simplex, repeater, regional, and worldwide calls over the D-STAR Internet gateway. With the ID-52A PLUS, you can call a friend in another city, or even internationally through D-STAR repeaters, with digital clear audio. In addition, the ID-52A PLUS can send digital voice with data, text messages, GPS location information and pictures.

Share Picture Function - A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

You can share pictures with other users and see received pictures on the color display (DV mode). Pictures taken on a smart device can be wirelessly transferred to the ID-52A PLUS through Bluetooth® connection. Enjoy sharing pictures together with voice messages. 

The Share Picture function requires the optional picture utility software ST-4001A (on Google Play™), ST-4001I (on App Store) or ST-4001W (Download from Icom website) picture utility software. The ST-4001W requires a microSD card or a USB cable to transfer pictures.

DR screen

DR (D-STAR Repeater) Function

The expanded DR (D-STAR Repeater) function makes D-STAR and FM repeater communication easier to use. Combined with the GPS function, you can make selection of a local repeater available with a couple of button pushes, based on your location. From this model, once you select the nearest repeater, you can choose other nearby repeaters simply by the dial operation. Additionally, the DR mode supports reflector linking controls.

Wireless Connection Via Bluetooth® with an Android™ Device Even When Using Terminal Mode and Access Point Mode

While the previous ID-52A required a cable connection, the ID-52A PLUS can now connect wirelessly to an Android™ device over Bluetooth® connection in the Terminal mode and Access Point mode. By connecting to an Android device with the RS-MS3A app, D-STAR communication is possible through a cellular phone. You can smoothly start Terminal mode and Access Point mode operation wirelessly even when you are going out. You can also operate these modes by connecting your ID-52A PLUS to a PC with the RS-MS3W software by a USB cable connected to the internet. When you are in areas with no D-STAR repeaters, create your own D-STAR Access Point to access the D-STAR network virtually anywhere. This enables another D-STAR radio user to communicate through the D-STAR network over the air.

 Terminal mode and Access Point mode are available only where the repeater system supports these modes (compatible with RS-RP3 Gateway software).

 The RS-MS3W optional software (Download from Icom website) is required to be installed in the PC. The RS-MS3A optional application software is required to be installed in the Android™ device (Download on Google Play™). Use the Bluetooth® function or a USB cable to connect to the Android™ device. Type-A to Type-C: OPC-2480 (supplied with the transceiver). Type-C to Type-C: User supplied. Type-C to Micro B: User supplied.

 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 phone, you need an IPv4 Global IP address assigned to your Android™ device.

Advanced Functions and Operations with an Improved User Interface

2.3" Large Color Display

The ID-52A PLUS is equipped with a color display. The display size is 2.3 inches, 320 × 280 pixels to achieve excellent viewability. The display background color is selectable from black and white.

VS-3 Bluetooth® headset

Bluetooth® Enabled Features

The optional VS-3 Bluetooth® headset enables hands-free wireless operation. In addition to the PTT and volume up/down buttons, the VS-3 has 3 programmable buttons that can be assigned functions to improve operability and mobility.

You can easily connect to a smart device through Bluetooth®. The Remote Control software, RS-MS1A for Android™ device or RS-MS1I for iOS™ device can wirelessly control the ID-52A PLUS to change operating frequencies and other settings.

Waterfall display

Efficient Operation with Waterfall Display

The waterfall display shows not only the existence of signals but also the changes of signal level in chronological order. You will have an overview of the band conditions in more detail, including busy frequencies currently used, or open frequencies not used. The band scope mode is selectable from center mode, Fixed mode and Fixed scroll mode.

USB Type-C™ port

Chargeable with an USB Type-C™ Cable

The ID-52A PLUS features a USB Type-C™ port which is widely used in the industry, enabling USB charging. Additionally, it is a multifunctional USB port that supports PC programming, reading, and writing content to microSD cards, Terminal/Access Point mode compatibility, and CI-V control.

A USB adapter is required for charging.

USB PD is not supported.

V/V, U/U, V/U Dualwatch Including DV/DV Mode

The Dualwatch function monitors the VHF/VHF, UHF/UHF and VHF/UHF bands simultaneously*. You can quickly respond to a call from the Main and Sub bands. Two DV signals can be decoded at the same time. In addition, dual operation of Terminal mode and Simplex/Repeater operations is now possible. While operating in Terminal mode, you can quickly respond by switching to regular RF operations.

 AM/AM mode Dualwatch is not possible. AM signals can be received on only the Main VFO (A band.)

Military airband

VHF/UHF Airband and FM Broadcast Receiver

Airband reception is expanded from VHF to UHF military airband (225 ~ 374.995 MHz). FM broadcast stations can be listened to while using the Dualwatch function.

GPS position with grid locator

Integrated GPS Receiver

D-PRS mode is supported by the internal GPS receiver for sending your location and showing received station location, distance, and direction from your current location. In addition to your location, the ID-52A PLUS displays your current Grid Square information. The GPS position data can be used for Position Auto Reply, Near Repeater Search, and GPS log functions.

microSD Card Slot

You can store QSO Recording, TX Voice Memory, pictures, QSOs and GPS log data. Firmware upgrades, Repeater lists and other personal settings onto a microSD card (up to 32 GB). This can be loaded into the ID-52A PLUS radio.

IPX7 Waterproof and Tough Construction

With Icom’s pioneering IPX7 waterproofing and pro-grade construction, the ID-52A PLUS is perfect for your shack or operating in harsh outdoor environments.

Operating Time*

BP-272 (supplied) BP-307 (optional)
7.25 hours (FM mode) 12 hours (FM mode)

 Approximate. Tx: Rx: standby = 1:1:8. Power save function Auto (Short). GPS OFF.

Other Features

  • 750 mW loud audio output power
  • DV fast data mode uses data in place of voice frames
  • QSO log in CSV data format
  • Accessories for the ID-52A/ID-50A/ID-51A/ID-31A such as battery packs and microphones can be used
  • DV/FM near repeater search function
  • Voice recorder function
  • External DC power jack
  • Weather channel receive

Compare to the ID-52A and ID-50A

  ID-52A PLUS ID-52A ID-50A
Bluetooth -
USB port ✓ (Type-C) ✓ (Micro-B) ✓ (Type-C)
Picture Sharing function
Waterfall display
IP rating IPX7 IPX7 IPX7
Airband receiver UHF/VHF UHF/VHF VHF
microSD card slot
GPS receiver
LCD Color Color Monochrome
Audio 750 mW 750 mW 750 mW
Operating time* (with BP-272) 7.5 hours 7.5 hours 8 hours
Number of memory channels 1000 1000 500
Dimensions (W × H × D)

61.1 × 121.6 × 29.7 mm,

2.4 × 4.8 × 1.2 in

61.1 × 121.6 × 29.7 mm,

2.4 × 4.8 × 1.2 in

58.0 × 111.0 × 27.9 mm,

2.3 × 4.4 × 1.2 in

Weight (approximate) 330 g, 11.6 oz 330 g, 11.6 oz 300 g, 10.6 oz

Approximate. Tx: Rx: standby = 1:1:8. Power save: Auto (Short.) GPS OFF.

Bluetooth® connection has not been tested for all Bluetooth® compatible devices with this product. This does not guarantee that all devices will work with this product.

GENERAL

Frequency
coverage
(Unit: MHz)
Version Transmit Receiver Broadcast band
USA 144 ~ 148,
430 ~ 450*
(A) 108 ~ 174, 225 ~ 479*
(B) 137 ~ 174, 375 ~ 479*

88.0 ~ 108.0

(A) means A band, (B) means B band. * Guaranteed range: 144 ~ 148, 440 ~ 450 MHz
Type of emission F2D, F3E, F7W
Mode DV, FM, FM-N, WFM*, AM*, AM-N*
(* WFM, AM and AM-N are Rx only)
Number of memory channels 1000 memory channels, 4 call channels, 50 scan edges,
100 skip channels, 500 broadcast stations,
2500 repeaters, 300 call signs and 300 GPS memories
Frequency resolution 5, 6.25, 8.33*, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 50, 100, 125 and 200 kHz
* For only 108.000 MHz ~ 136.991 MHz.
Operating temperature range –20℃ ~ +60℃, –4°F ~ +140°F
Frequency stability ±2.5 ppm (–20℃ ~ +60℃ on the basis of 25℃)
Antenna impedance 50 Ω (SMA)
Power supply
requirement
Battery pack 7.4 V DC (with BP-272), 7.2 V DC (with BP-307)
External DC 10 ~ 16 V DC
Current drain
(at 7.4 V DC)
Tx High Less than 2.5 A
Rx AF Max. Less than 450 mA (DV),
Less than 400 mA (FM, FM-N) (Internal SP, 8 Ω)
Dimensions (W × H × D)
(projections not included)

61.1 × 121.6 × 29.7 mm, 2.4 × 4.8 × 1.2 in (main unit)

61.1 × 121.6 × 34.8 mm, 2.4 × 4.8 × 1.4 in (with BP-272)

Weight (approx.) 330 g, 11.6 oz (with BP-272 & antenna)
Bluetooth® Version 5.3

TRANSMITTER

Modulation system DV GMSK reactance modulation
FM, FM-N FM reactance modulation
Output power (at 7.4 V DC) 5 W, 2.5 W, 1.0 W, 0.5 W, 0.1 W
(High, Mid, Low2, Low1, S-Low)
Spurious emissions Less than –60 dBc (High, Mid),
Less than –13 dBm (Low2, Low1, S-Low)
Max. frequency deviation ±5.0/2.5 kHz (FM/FM-N)
Ext. Mic impedance 2.2 kΩ

RECEIVER

Sensitivity DV Less than 0.2 μV (at 1% BER)
FM, FM-N Less than 0.18 μV (at 12 dB SINAD)
Selectivity More than 50 dB (DV, FM-N), More than 55 dB (FM)
Spurious rejection More than 60 dB
Audio output power Internal SP More than 750 mW (8 Ω load)
External SP More than 200 mW (8 Ω load)
Receiver sensitivity (Except amateur bands)
Frequency range
(Unit: MHz)
FM/FM-N/WFM (12 dB SINAD) AM/AM-N
(10 dB S/N)
BC band 88.000 ~ 108.000 Less than 1 μV (WFM) -
A band 108.000 ~ 136.991 - Less than 1 μV
137.000 ~ 142.000 Less than 0.18 μV Less than 1 μV
142.005 ~ 148.000 Less than 0.18 μV -
148.005 ~ 174.000 Less than 0.32 μV -
225.000 ~ 259.995 Less than 0.56 μV Less than 1.8 μV*
260.000 ~ 354.995 Less than 0.32 μV Less than 1 μV*
355.000 ~ 374.995 Less than 0.5 μV Less than 1.8 μV*
375.000 ~ 399.995 Less than 0.5 μV -  
400.000 ~ 479.000 Less than 0.32 μV -
B band 137.000 ~ 148.000 Less than 0.18 μV -
148.005 ~ 174.000 Less than 0.32 μV -
375.000 ~ 399.995 Less than 0.5 μV -
400.000 ~ 479.000 Less than 0.32 μV -

AM-N mode cannot be received from 225~374.995 MHz.

All stated specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Supplied Accessories

  • Battery pack, BP-272 
  • USB Type-C™ cable, OPC-2480
  • Antenna, FA-S270C
  • Belt clip, MB-127
  • Hand strap

Supplied accessories may differ depending on the transceiver version.

CARRYING CASES

Catalogs / Brochures

Brochures Name Size
ID-52A PLUS 2.71MB

Instruction Manual / Guides

Name Model Name Note
INSTRUCTIONS CS-52PLUS
BASIC MANUAL (Spanish/French) ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS
BASIC MANUAL (English) ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS
ADVANCED MANUAL (English) ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS
CI-V REFERENCE GUIDE (English) ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS
D-STAR Application Guide ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS/ID-52A/ID-52E/IC-705/IC-905/IC-9700/IC-7100/ID-4100E/ID-4100A/ID-5100E/ID-5100A/ID-51E/ID-51A/ID-31E/ID-31A/ID-31E PLUS/ID-31A PLUS/RS-MS1A/RS-MS1I/RS-MS3A/ST-4001A/ST-4001I/ID-50A/ID-50E
D-STAR Using the GPS Logger function ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS/ID-52A/ID-52E/IC-705/ID-51A/ID-51E/ID-31A/ID-31E/ID-31A PLUS/ID-31E PLUS/ID-50A/ID-50E
D-STAR Updating the repeater list ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS/ID-52E/ID-52A/IC-705/IC-905/IC-9700/IC-7100/ID-4100E/ID-4100A/ID-5100E/ID-5100A/ID-51E/ID-51A/ID-31E/ID-31A/ID-31E PLUS/ID-31A PLUS/ID-50A/ID-50E
About the DV Gateway function ID-52A/ID-52E/ID-51A (PLUS2)/ID-51E (PLUS2)/ID-31A PLUS/ID-31E PLUS/ID-50A/ID-50E
INSTRUCTIONS ST-4001A/ST-4001I
INSTRUCTIONS ST-4001W
Installation Guide for Windows 11/10 USB Driver IC-705/IC-905/ID-52A/ID-52E/ID-50A/ID-50E/ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS/IC-7760/RS-BA1 Version 2

Firmware / Software

Type Model Name Version Last Update
Programming software CS-52PLUS Version 1.00 2024.07.12
USB Driver IC-705/IC-905/IC-R15/ID-52A/ID-52E/ID-50A/ID-50E/ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS Version 1.50 2024.07.12
USB Driver IC-705/IC-905/IC-R15/ID-52A/ID-52E/ID-50A/ID-50E/ID-52A PLUS/ID-52E PLUS/IC-7760 Version 1.60 2024.08.28
Firmware ID-52A PLUS, ID-52E PLUS Version 1.00 2024.07.12