Vertex Standard FT-857 manual

O PERATING M ANUAL VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. 4-8-8 Nakameguro, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo 153-8644, Japan VERTEX STANDARD US Headquarters 10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A. International Division 8350 N.W. 52nd Terrace, Suite 201, Miami, FL 33166, U.S.A. YAESU EUROPE B.V. P.O. Box 75525, 1118 ZN Schiphol, The Netherlands YAESU UK LTD. Unit 12, Su[...]

Contents Introduction ..................................................................... 1 Specifications ................................................................... 2 Accessories & Options ................................................... 4 Installation ....................................................................... 5 Prel[...]

1 FT-857 Operating Manual I NTRODUCTION The FT-857 is a rugged, innovative multiband, multimode mobile/portable transceiver for the amateur radio MF/HF/VHF/UHF bands. Providing coverage of the 160-10 meter bands plus the 6 m, 2 m, and 70 cm bands, the FT-857 includes operation on the SSB, C W , AM, FM, and Digital modes, yielding the most comprehen[...]

2 FT-857 Operating Manual General Frequency Range : Receive: 0.1-56 MHz, 76-108 MHz, 118-164 MHz, 420-470 MHz Transmit: 160 - 6 Meters, 2 Meters, 70 Centimeters (Amateur bands only) Emission Modes : A1 (CW), A3 (AM), A3J (LSB/USB), F3 (FM), F1 (9600 bps packet), F2 (1200 bps packet) Synthesizer Steps (Min.): 10 Hz (CW/SSB), 100 Hz (AM/FM/WFM) Anten[...]

3 FT-857 Operating Manual Receiver Circuit Type : Double-Conversion Superheterodyne (SSB/CW/AM/FM) Superheterodyne (WFM) Intermediate Frequencies : 1st: 68.33 MHz (SSB/CW/AM/FM); 10.7 MHz (WFM) 2nd: 455 kHz Sensitivity : SSB/CW AM FM 100 kHz-1.8 MHz – 32 µV – 1.8 MHz-28 MHz 0.2 µV 2 µV – 28 MHz-30 MHz 0.2 µV 2 µV 0.5 µV 50 MHz-54 MHz 0.[...]

4 FT-857 Operating Manual S UPPLIED A CCESSORIES Hand Microphone MH-31 A8J ............................................................................................... 1 Mobile Mounting Bracket MMB-82 .................................................................................... 1 DC Power Cord .............................................[...]

5 FT-857 Operating Manual This chapter describes the installation procedure for integrating the FT-857 into a typical amateur radio station. It is presumed that you possess technical knowledge and conceptual understanding consistent with your status as a licensed radio amateur. Please take some extra time to make certain that the important safety a[...]

6 FT-857 Operating Manual I NST ALLA TION S AFETY I NFORMA TION The FT-857 is an electrical apparatus, as well as a generator of RF (Radio Frequency) energ y , and you should exercise all safety precautions as are appropriate for this type of device. These safety tips apply to any device installed in a well-designed amateur radio station. Never all[...]

7 FT-857 Operating Manual I NST ALLA TION I NST ALLING THE M ICROPHONE AND F RONT P ANEL 1. Insert the microphone’s plug into the recessed jack on the transceiver, as shown in the illustration. 2. You may position the microphone cable so as to cause it to exit from the side or the bottom of the transceiver. Just route the cable into the appropria[...]

8 FT-857 Operating Manual P OWER C ONNECTIONS The DC power connector for the FT-857 must only be connected to a DC source providing 13.8 V olts DC (±15%), and capable of at least 22 Amperes of current. Always observe proper polarity when making DC connections: The Red DC power lead connects to the Positive ( + ) DC terminal; and the Black DC power[...]

9 FT-857 Operating Manual I NST ALLA TION Tips for Successful Mobile Installations: r Before connecting the DC cable to the batter y , measure the voltage across the battery terminals with the engine running fast enough to show a charge. If the voltage is above 15 V olts, the vehicle’s voltage regulator should be adjusted to reduce the charging v[...]

10 FT-857 Operating Manual G ROUNDING The provision of an effective ground system is important in any successful communications station. A good ground system can contribute to station efficiency in a number of ways: r It can minimize the possibility of electrical shock to the operator. r It can minimize RF currents flowing on the shield of the coax[...]

11 FT-857 Operating Manual Base Station Earth Grounding Typicall y , the ground connection consists of one or more copper-clad steel rods, driven into the ground. If multiple ground rods are used, they should be configured in a “V” configura- tion, and bonded together at the apex of the “V” which is nearest the station location. Use a heav [...]

12 FT-857 Operating Manual A NTENNA C ONSIDERA TIONS The antenna systems connected to your FT-857 transceiver are, of course, critically impor- tant in ensuring successful communications. The FT-857 is designed for use with any an- tenna system providing a 50 W resistive impedance at the desired operating frequenc y . While minor excursions from th[...]

13 FT-857 Operating Manual rest of the vehicle’s bod y , using a heavy braid bonded securely at both ends, to ensure that as much counterpoise as possible is secured. In portable operation, be sure to lay out radials (or otherwise construct a n image plane for the vertical monopole); it is not adequate simply to connect a vertical radiating eleme[...]

14 FT-857 Operating Manual Do not allow disconnected cables to touch the case of your FT-857 transceiver or accesso- ries, as lightning can easily jump from the cable to the circuitry of your transceiver via the case, causing irreparable damage. If a lightning storm is in progress in your immediate area, do not attempt to disconnect the cables, as [...]

15 FT-857 Operating Manual I NST ALLA TION E LECTROMAGNETIC C OMP A TIBILITY If this transceiver is used with, or in the vicinity of, a computer or computer-driven accesso- ries, you may need to experiment with grounding and/or Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) suppression devices (such as ferrite cores) to minimize interference to your communicat[...]

16 FT-857 Operating Manual L INEAR A MPLIFIER I NTERF ACING The FT-857 provides the switching and drive-control lines required for easy interfacing to most all commonly-available amplifiers sold toda y. These include: r The Antenna Jacks (“ HF/50MHz ” and “ 144/430MHz ”); r A T/R control line (open circuit on RX, closure to ground on TX); a[...]

17 FT-857 Operating Manual The “TX GND” T/R control line is a transistor “open collector” circuit, capable of handling positive amplifier relay coil voltages of up to +50V DC and current of up to 400 mA. If you plan on using multiple linear amplifiers for different bands, you must provide external band- switching of the “TX GND” relay c[...]

18 FT-857 Operating Manual R ECEIVER A CCESSORIES ( T APE R ECORDER ETC . ) Connection of a tape recorder or other such receiver accessory is easily accomplished by using the D ATA jack’s Data Out (1200 bps) terminal (Pin 5) and Ground (Pin 2). The audio output is fixed at 100 m V , with an impedance of 600 W . A DJUSTING THE F RONT F EET The two[...]

19 FT-857 Operating Manual I NST ALLA TION N OTE[...]

20 FT-857 Operating Manual AF Knob The (inner) VOL knob adjusts the receiver audio volume level presented to the internal or external speaker. Clockwise rotation increases the volume level. SQL/RF Knob In the USA version, this (outer) SQL/RF knob adjusts the gain of the receiver’s RF and IF stages. Using Menu Mode No-080 [ SQL / RF GAIN ] , this [...]

21 FT-857 Operating Manual F RONT P ANEL C ONTROL & S WITCHES FUNC Key Press this key momentarily to enable the changing of the function of the Multi Function keys ([ A ] , [ B ] , and [ C ]) by rotating the SELECT knob. Press and hold in this key for one second to activate the “Menu” mode. Multi Function Keys These three keys select many o[...]

22 FT-857 Operating Manual BAND ( DWN ) / BAND ( UP ) Key Pressing either of these keys momentarily will cause the frequency to be moved up or down by one frequency band. The selections available are: ..... 1.8 MHz ó 3.5 MHz ó 5.0 MHz ó 7.0 MHz ó 10 MHz ó 14 MHz ó 15 MHz ó 18 MHz ó 21 MHz ó 24 MHz ó 28 MHz ó 50 MHz ó 88 MHz ó 108 MHz ?[...]

23 FT-857 Operating Manual MIC Jack Connect the supplied MH-31 A8J Hand Microphone to this jack. SP-PH Switch If you use earphones with this transceiver, move this switch to the “ PH ” position before inserting the earphone plug into the SP/PH Jack, to prevent injury your ears. METER Jack This 3.5-mm 2-pin jack is used for connection to an anal[...]

24 FT-857 Operating Manual Ó Ó Ó [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] Ó Ó Ó [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] M UL TI F UNCTION K EY D ET AIL The [ A ] , [ B ] , and [ C ] keys select many of the most important operating features of the transceiver. When you press the [ FUNC ] ke y , then rotate the SELECT knob, the current function of that key will appear above each of the [ [...]

25 FT-857 Operating Manual Ó Ó Ó [ A ] [ B ] [ C ] Multi Function Row “c” ( MFc ) [ STO, RCL, PROC ] [ A ] Key: STO Press the [ A ]( STO ) key to store the contents of the VFO into the QMB (Quick Memory Bank) register. [ B ] Key: RCL Press the [ B ]( RCL ) key to recall the QMB Memory. [ C ] Key: PROC Press the [ C ]( PROC ) key to activate [...]

26 FT-857 Operating Manual Multi Function Row “e” ( MFe ) [ TON, –– – , TDCH ] ( [ ENC, DEC, TDCH ] ) [ A ] Key: TON / ENC Press the [ A ]( TON ) key to activate CTCSS or DCS operation on FM. When the Split Tone feature is activated via Menu Mode No-079 [ SPLIT TONE ] , this key function changes to “ENC” for activation of the CTCSS En[...]

27 FT-857 Operating Manual Multi Function Row “h” ( MFh ) [ SCOP, WID, STEP ] [ A ] Key: SCOP Press the [ A ]( SCOP ) key to activate the Spectrum Scope Monitor fea- ture. Press and hold in the [ A ]( SCOP ) key for one second to initiate the Spectrum Scope. [ B ] Key: WID Press the [ B ]( WID ) key to select the visible bandwidth for the Spec-[...]

28 FT-857 Operating Manual Multi Function Row “j” ( MFj ) [ SPOT, BK, KYR ] [ A ] Key: SPOT Press the [ A ]( SPOT ) key to activate the CW spotting heterodyne os- cillator. [ B ] Key: BK Press the [ B ]( BK ) key to enable CW “Semi-break-in” operation. Press and hold in the [ B ]( BK ) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-029 [ CW SIDE[...]

29 FT-857 Operating Manual F RONT P ANEL C ONTROL & S WITCHES M UL TI F UNCTION K EY D ET AIL Multi Function Row “m” ( MFm ) [ IPO, ATT, NAR ] [ A ] Key: IPO Press the [ A ]( IPO ) key to bypass the receiver preamplifier, thereby activating Intercept Point Optimization for improved overload char- acteristics while operating on the HF and 50[...]

30 FT-857 Operating Manual Multi Function Row “p” ( MFp ) [ DNR, DNF, DBF ] [ A ] Key: DNR Press the [ A ]( DNR ) key to activate the DSP Noise Reduction system (requires the optional DSP-2 Unit). Press and hold in the [ A ]( DNR ) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-049 [ DSP NR LEVEL ] (for setting the degree of DSP Noise Reduction). [ [...]

31 FT-857 Operating Manual F RONT P ANEL C ONTROL & S WITCHES N OTE[...]

32 FT-857 Operating Manual INPUT Jack This is the DC power supply connection for the transceiver. Use the supplied DC cable to connect this jack to the car battery or DC power suppl y, which must be capable of supplying at least 22 Amps @ 13.8 VDC. Make certain that the Red lead connects to the Positive (+) side of the power source, and that the Bl[...]

33 FT-857 Operating Manual DATA Jack This 6-pin, mini-DIN jack accepts AFSK input from a Ter- minal Node Controller (TNC); it also provides fixed-level Receiver Audio Output, Push-To-Talk (PTT), Squelch Sta- tus, and ground lines. ACC Jack This 3.5-mm 3-pin jack accepts external ALC (Automatic Level Control) voltage from a linear amplifier on the t[...]

34 FT-857 Operating Manual Hi! I’m R. F . Radio, and I’m here to guide you through the fine points of the setup and use of your new FT-857. I know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I encour- age you to read the “Operation” section of this manual as thoroughly as possible, so you’ll get the most out of this fantastic new rig. Now. . [...]

35 FT-857 Operating Manual A DJUSTING THE A UDIO V OLUME L EVEL Rotate the AF knob to set a comfortable listening level. When operating in the “ DIG ” or “ PKT ” modes, you may set the AF knob to any comfortable setting, or even all the way off, because the output from the D ATA jack is a fixed-level audio signal. Start with the AF knob set[...]

36 FT-857 Operating Manual A DJUSTING THE RF G AIN AND S QUELCH The SQL/RF Gain control is configured differentl y, depending on the country to which the FT-857 has been exported. In the U.S. version, the default function of this control is “RF Gain.” The configuration of the SQL/RF Gain control is set via Menu Mode No-080 [ SQL / RF GAIN ] ; s[...]

37 FT-857 Operating Manual change the operating frequency in 1 MHz steps, allowing very quick frequency excursions. This can be particularly helpful on the VHF and UHF bands. In step 2 above, it was mentioned that tuning in the “ AM / FM / PKT ” modes is accomplished using the SELECT knob. By default, the DIAL is disabled in these modes; if you[...]

38 FT-857 Operating Manual R ECEIVER A CCESSORIES L OCKING F RONT P ANEL C ONTROLS The front panel LOCK button allows you to disable the DIAL and/or the front panel con- trols. In the transceiver’s default configuration, pressing the [ LOCK ] button disables just the DIAL , while the other keys and switches are unaffected. To lock out the remaind[...]

39 FT-857 Operating Manual R ECEIVER A CCESSORIES C LARIFIER ( R ECEIVER I NCREMENT AL T UNING ) The Clarifier (RIT) allows you to set an offset of up to ±9.99 kHz of the receive frequency relative to your transmit frequenc y . To achieve a wider offset than this, you may use the “Split” operating mode, described later. 1. Press the [ CLAR ] b[...]

40 FT-857 Operating Manual IF SHIFT The receiver’s IF SHIFT feature is an effective interference-reduction tool, which allows you to shift the passband response higher or lower without changing the pitch of the incom- ing signal. 1. Press and hold in the [ CLAR ] button for one sec- ond to activate the IF SHIFT feature. An icon, such as “ ”, [...]

41 FT-857 Operating Manual R ECEIVER A CCESSORIES AGC ( A UT OMA TIC G AIN C ONTROL ) The receiver recovery time constant of the AGC system may be modified to match your operating needs. 1. Press the [ FUNC ] key momentaril y , then rotate the SELECT knob, as needed, until Multi Function Row “l” [ NB, AGC, AUTO ] appears on the displa y. 2. Pre[...]

42 FT-857 Operating Manual IPO ( I NTERCEPT P OINT O PTIMIZA TION ) The IPO feature bypasses the receiver RF preamplifier, thereby eliminating the preamp’s gain. This feature is not available on the 144 MHz and 430 MHz bands. 1. Press the [ FUNC ] key momentaril y , then rotate the SELECT knob, as needed, until Multi Function Row “m” [ IPO, A[...]

43 FT-857 Operating Manual DSP B ANDP ASS F IL TER ( DBF ) ( R EQUIRES O PTIONAL DSP-2 U NIT ) In the SSB mode, the receiver’s selectivity may be enhanced via the DSP Bandpass Filter. 1. Press the [ DSP ] key momentaril y . This instantly activates Multi Function Row “p” [ DNR, DNF, DBF ] . 2. Press the [ C ]( DBF ) key to activate the DSP Ba[...]

44 FT-857 Operating Manual DSP CW P EAKING F IL TER ( DBF ) ( R EQUIRES O PTIONAL DSP-2 U NIT ) In the CW mode, pressing the [ C ]( DBF ) key in Multi Function Row “p” [ DNR, DNF, DBF ] activates a narrow-bandwidth peaking filter, which may be ideal for use under very crowded conditions. The DSP CW Peaking Filter also is especially helpful unde[...]

45 FT-857 Operating Manual DSP N OTCH F IL TER ( DNF ) ( R EQUIRES O PTIONAL DSP-2 U NIT ) The DSP system’s Notch Filter may be helpful in removing one or more offending carrier or heterodyne signals from the audio passband. 1. Press the [ DSP ] key momentaril y . This instantly activates Multi Function Row “p” [ DNR, DNF, DBF ] . 2. Press th[...]

46 FT-857 Operating Manual A UT OMA TIC P OWER -O FF F EA TURE The APO feature helps conserve battery life by automatically turning the transceiver off after a user-defined period of time within which there has been no dial or key activit y . The available selections for the time before power-off are 1 ~ 6 hours, as well as “APO Off.” The defau[...]

47 FT-857 Operating Manual R ECEIVER A CCESSORIES N OTE[...]

48 FT-857 Operating Manual SSB/AM T RANSMISSION Basic Setup/Operation 1. Press the [ MODE ( t ) ] or [ MODE ( u ) ] key so as to select either SSB (LSB/USB) or the AM mode. In the SSB mode, if you are operating on the 7 MHz or lower bands, select the LSB mode. If you are operating on the 14 MHz or higher bands, select the USB mode. 2. Press the [ F[...]

49 FT-857 Operating Manual T RANSMITTER O PERA TION VOX Operation The VOX system provides automatic transmit/receive switching based on voice input to the microphone. With the VOX system enabled, you do not need to press the PTT switch in order to transmit. 1. Press the [ FUNC ] key momentaril y , then rotate the SELECT knob, as needed, until Multi[...]

50 FT-857 Operating Manual AF Speech Processor Operation The AF Speech Processor increases your average power output while operating on SSB and AM modes. 1. Press the [ FUNC ] ke y , then rotate the SELECT knob, as necessar y , to recall Multi Function Row “c” [ STO, RCL, PROC ] . 2. Press the [ C ]( PROC ) key to activate the AF Speech Process[...]

51 FT-857 Operating Manual DSP Microphone Equalizer ( R EQUIRES O PTIONAL DSP-2 U NIT ) In the SSB, AM, and FM transmission modes, you may use the DSP system to change the frequency response of the audio stage, if you have installed the optional DSP-2 Digital Signal Processing Unit. This will allow you to roll off excessive high- and/or low-frequen[...]

52 FT-857 Operating Manual CW T RANSMISSION Operation using Straight Key/External Keying Device When using a straight ke y , an external electronic keyer, or a computer-generated keying device, please follow the instructions in this section. 1. Insert your key’s plug into the rear-panel KEY jack. 2. Press the [ MODE ( t ) ] or [ MODE ( u ) ] ke y[...]

53 FT-857 Operating Manual T RANSMITTER O PERA TION This adjustment also controls the BFO offset (actual pitch of your transmitted signal relative to your current receive frequency). To adjust the CW sidetone pitch: Ÿ Press and hold in the [ FUNC ] key for one second to enter the Menu mode. Ÿ Rotate the SELECT knob to Menu Mode No-027 [ CW PITCH [...]

54 FT-857 Operating Manual Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer The built-in Electronic Keyer provides a convenient method of generating C W . The Elec- tronic Keyer includes weight and speed adjustments. 1. Connect your keyer paddle’s cable to the KEY jack on the rear panel of the transceiver. 2. Press the [ MODE ( t ) ] or [ MODE ( u ) ] ke y , [...]

55 FT-857 Operating Manual KEY REV ] . The default setting for this feature is “NORMAL,” whereby the “Tip” con- nection on the Key Plug is “Dot” and the “Ring” connection is “Dash.” To change the paddle polarity: Ÿ Press and hold in the [ FUNC ] key for one second to enter the Menu mode. Ÿ Rotate the SELECT knob to recall Menu[...]

56 FT-857 Operating Manual FM T RANSMISSION Basic Setup/Operation 1. Press the [ MODE ( t ) ] or [ MODE ( u ) ] key so as to select the FM mode. 2. Press the microphone’s PTT switch, and speak into the microphone in a normal voice. Release the PTT switch to return to the receive mode. 3. If you get reports that your modulation level is too high o[...]

57 FT-857 Operating Manual T RANSMITTER O PERA TION FM T RANSMISSION Repeater Operation 1. Press the [ FUNC ] key momentaril y , then rotate the SELECT knob, as needed, until Multi Function Row “d” [ RPT, REV, VOX ] appears on the displa y. 2. Press the [ A ]( RPT ) key to activate repeater operation. One press of the [ A ]( RPT ) key will have[...]

58 FT-857 Operating Manual Mode No-083 [ TONE FREQ ] . ( 2) Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired CTCSS frequenc y. ( 3) When done, press and hold in the [ FUNC ] key for one second to save the new setting and exit to normal operation. 5. With repeater shift activated, you can tem- porarily reverse the transmit and receive fre- quencies by pre[...]

59 FT-857 Operating Manual T RANSMITTER O PERA TION FM T RANSMISSION DCS Operation Another form of tone access control is Digital Code Squelch, or DCS. It is a newer, more advanced tone system that is less susceptible to false triggering than CTCSS. A DCS En- coder/Decoder is built into your transceiver, and operation is very similar to that descri[...]

60 FT-857 Operating Manual Split Tone Operation The FT-857 can be configured in a “Split Tone” configuration via the Menu mode. This allows you to encode a CTCSS Tone but decode a DCS code, encode and decode different CTCSS Tones, encode (only) a DCS code, etc. 1. Press and hold in the [ FUNC ] key for one second to enter the Menu mode. 2. Rota[...]

61 FT-857 Operating Manual T RANSMITTER O PERA TION FM T RANSMISSION ARTS™ Operation The ARTS™ system uses DCS signaling to inform you when you and another ARTS™ equipped station are within communications range. This can be especially valuable during search-and-rescue operations, as a base station can quickly use ARTS™ to alert a field unit[...]

62 FT-857 Operating Manual CW Identifier Setup The ARTS™ feature includes a CW identifier, as discussed previousl y . Every ten minutes during ARTS ™ operation, the radio can be instructed to send “ DE ( your callsign ) K ” if this feature is enabled. The callsign field may contain up to 10 characters. Here’s how to program the CW Identif[...]

63 FT-857 Operating Manual T RANSMITTER O PERA TION D IGIT AL M ODE O PERA TION ( SSB-B ASED AFSK ) The FT-857 provides extensive capability for digital mode operation on the HF, VHF, and UHF bands. The use of AFSK (Audio Frequency-Shifted Keying) configurations allows a wide variety of different communication modes to be utilized. The Menu provide[...]

64 FT-857 Operating Manual D IGIT AL M ODE O PERA TION ( SSB-B ASED AFSK ) monitor ALC voltage. If not, press the [ FUNC ] key momentaril y , then rotate the SE- LECT knob to select to select Multi Function Row “i” [ MTR, –– – , DISP ] , then press the [ A ]( MTR ) or [ B ] key so as to select metering of ALC (“ ALC ” icon will appear[...]

65 FT-857 Operating Manual 2. Press the [ MODE ( t ) ] or [ MODE ( u ) ] ke y , as needed, to select the DIG operating mode (the “ DIG ” icon will appear on the display). 3. Now use Menu mode to configure the transceiver’s passband response. Once in the Menu mode, rotate the SELECT knob to select Menu Mode No-039 [ DIG SHIFT ] , and rotate th[...]

66 FT-857 Operating Manual ating on 1200 bps, try now to connect to another station or node; you may well find that the drive level needs no further adjustment. If, however, you are having trouble connecting due to insufficient or excessive drive from the TNC to the FT-857 , use Menu Mode No-071 [ PKT 1200 ] (for 1200 bps Packet) or No-072 [ PKT 96[...]

67 FT-857 Operating Manual T RANSMITTER O PERA TION T IME -O UT T IMER Most often used on FM, the transmitter’s Time-Out Timer (TOT) feature disables the trans- mitter after a user-defined period of transmission. This feature may be useful in preventing a “stuck microphone” (accidental closure of the PTT switch) from causing interference to o[...]

68 FT-857 Operating Manual A CTIVE -T UNING A NTENNA S YSTEM ( A T AS-100/-120 ) O PERA TION The optional ATAS-100/-120 Active-Tuning Antenna System provides operation on a number of HF bands (7/14/21/28 MHz) plus 50 MHz, 144 MHz, and 430 MHz. The FT-857 pro- vides microprocessor control of the tuning mechanism in the ATAS-100/-120 for conve- nient[...]

69 FT-857 Operating Manual A CTIVE -T UNING A NTENNA S YSTEM ( A T AS-100/-120 ) O PERA TION T RANSMITTER O PERA TION 6. When you wish to conclude ATAS-100/-120 operation, press the [ A ]( TUNE ) key; the “ u ” icon disappear surrounding the “ ATAS ” indication. If the ATAS-100/120 retracts to its minimum length, it will not automatically s[...]

70 FT-857 Operating Manual ATAS-100/-120 Operating Tips The information below will help you derive the best performance possible from the ATAS- 100/-120 Active-Tuning Antenna System. Grounding It is critically important that you establish a good mechanical and RF ground connection for your ATAS-100/-120 (as with all vertical antennas). Mobile mount[...]

71 FT-857 Operating Manual FC-30 A UT OMA TIC A NTENNA T UNER O PERA TION The optional FC-30 Automatic Antenna Tuner provides automatic tuning of a coaxial line so as to present a nominal 50 W impedance to the FT-857 ’s HF/50 MHz antenna port. Before operation can begin, you must instruct the FT-857 ’s microprocessor that the FC-30 is being use[...]

72 FT-857 Operating Manual Antenna Tuner Memory System The FC-30 , working in concert with the FT-857 , can store impedance matching data in its micro-computer memor y , so as to provide instant adjustment as you transmit in different areas of a particular band. A total of 100 memories are provided: 11 of these are “general” memories apportione[...]

73 FT-857 Operating Manual QMB ( Q UICK M EMOR Y B ANK ) C HANNELS The “Quick Memory” Bank provides one-touch access to frequencies you want to store and recall in a hurr y . You may store a “QMB” channel into a “regular” memory later, if you like; use of the “regular” memories will be described later. QMB Channel Storage 1. Tune in[...]

74 FT-857 Operating Manual M EMOR Y O PERA TION ON “ R EGULAR ” M EMOR Y C HANNELS Most Memory operation will be conducted in the “regular” memory registers. There are 200 memory channels available for storage and recall of important frequencies. Normal Memory Storage 1. Tune in the desired frequenc y , and set the operating mode and bandwi[...]

75 FT-857 Operating Manual Split-Frequency Memory Storage You can also store “Split” frequencies, such as when operating on a repeater system not utiliz- ing a “standard” offset. This procedure may also be used for DX work on 7 MHz SSB, etc. 1. In the VFO mode, set the desired Receive frequency and mode. 2. Press the [ FUNC ] key momentaril[...]

76 FT-857 Operating Manual Memory Channel Recall 1. If you currently are in the VFO tuning mode, press the [ M/V ] key once to enter the “Memory” mode (a memory channel number “ M-nnn ” will appear on the display in the space previously occupied by “VFOa” or “VFOb”). 2. To select another memory channel, turn the SELECT knob. 3. When[...]

77 FT-857 Operating Manual Masking (“Hiding”) a Memory Frequency data stored on a memory channel can be deleted, if desired, from any memory channel except channel “1.” The deletion process is not a “hard” erasure, so if you erase a channel by mistake using this procedure, the memory channel contents can be recovered. 1. Press the [ FUN[...]

78 FT-857 Operating Manual M EMOR Y O PERA TION ON “ HOME ” C HANNEL M EMORIES Four Special one-touch “Home” channels are available, for special frequencies you use often. Either “simplex” or “split” frequency/mode data may be stored in the “Home” chan- nel locations. Special “Home” channels are available for HF (any frequen[...]

79 FT-857 Operating Manual M EMOR Y O PERA TION L ABELING M EMORIES AFTER P ROGRAMMING C HANNEL D A T A You may wish to append an alpha-numeric “Tag” (label) to a memory or memories, to aid in recollection of the channel’s intended use (such as a club name, etc.), some time after you have performed the initial memory programming. This is easi[...]

80 FT-857 Operating Manual The Spectrum Scope Monitor allows viewing of operating activity on frequencies above and below your current operating frequency in the VFO mode, or viewing of memory chan- nel activity on the current memory group when in the Memory mode. When the Spectrum Scope Monitor is activated, the display indicates the relative sign[...]

81 FT-857 Operating Manual The Smart Search™ feature automatically stores frequencies where activity is encountered on the current band. When Smart Search™ is engaged, the transceiver quickly searches above your current frequenc y , storing active frequencies as it goes (without stopping on them even momentarily). These frequencies are stored i[...]

82 FT-857 Operating Manual S CANNING F EA TURES This transceiver contains a wide variety of scanning capabilities. Whether you are in the VFO mode or one of the memory modes, scanning operation is fundamentally identical in all configurations, but with the following differences: r In the VFO mode, scanning causes the transceiver to sweep up or down[...]

83 FT-857 Operating Manual S CANNING O PERA TION Scan-Resume Choices Scanning operation requires that you have the FT-857 ’s audio squelched. The transceiver then “assumes” that the opening of the squelch corresponds to the discovery of a signal you may wish to listen to. Once the scan has been halted, one of three things may happen: TIME (de[...]

84 FT-857 Operating Manual 5. Initiate memory scanning; you will observe that the channels you marked to be skipped are not included in the scanning loop. 6. Press the PTT switch to stop the scan; you may now use the SELECT knob to step through the channels manually - one at a time - and you will observe that the “Skipped” channels are, nonethe[...]

85 FT-857 Operating Manual “ P RIORITY C HANNEL ” S CANNING The FT-857 ’s scanning features include a two-channel scanning capability which allows you to operate on a VFO or Memory channel, while periodically checking Memory Channel “M-001” for activit y . If a station is received on Memory Channel “ M-001 ” which is strong enough to [...]

86 FT-857 Operating Manual P ROGRAMMABLE M EMOR Y S CAN ( PMS ) O PERA TION To limit scanning (and manual tuning) within a particular frequency range, you can use the Programmable Memory Scanning (PMS) feature, which utilizes five special-purpose memory pairs (“ M-P1L / M-P1U ” through “ M-P5L / M-P5U ”). The PMS feature is especially usefu[...]

87 FT-857 Operating Manual D UAL W A TCH O PERA TION Dual Watch is similar, in some respects, to scanning. In Dual Watch, however, the trans- ceiver monitors (squelched) on the VFO-A frequency while periodically checking VFO-B for activity (or vice-versa). A typical example might be for you to set VFO-A to 50.110 MHz, watching for DX stations who m[...]

88 FT-857 Operating Manual O PERA TION ON A LASKA E MERGENCY F REQUENCY : 5167.5 KH Z ( U.S. V ERSION O NL Y ) S ECTION 97.401(d) of the regulations governing amateur radio in the United States permit emergency amateur communications on the spot frequency of 5167.5 kHz by stations in (or within 92.6 km of) the state of Alaska. This frequency is onl[...]

89 FT-857 Operating Manual M ISCELLANEOUS S ETTINGS CW T RAINING F EA TURE The FT-857 provides a CW Training feature, which sends random Morse Code five-charac- ter groups via the sidetone (heard in the speaker), so you can improve your CW proficiency whether or not the bands are open. 1. Press and hold in the [ FUNC ] key for one second to enter t[...]

90 FT-857 Operating Manual B EACON F EA TURE The FT-857 ’s unique “Beacon” feature allows you to set up the transceiver to send a repeti- tive message. For example, on a DX-pedition, the FT-857 beacon might be activated on a 50 MHz frequenc y , to alert DXers as to possible band openings. Beacon Text Storage 1. Press and hold in the [ FUNC ] [...]

91 FT-857 Operating Manual Beacon Transmission (On the Air) 1. Press and hold in the [ FUNC ] key for one second to enter the Menu mode. 2. Rotate the SELECT knob to select Menu Mode No-012 [ BEACON TIME ] . 3. Rotate the DIAL to select the interval time (between repeats of the message) (1 ~ 255 seconds). 4. Press and hold in the [ FUNC ] key for o[...]

92 FT-857 Operating Manual D ISPLA Y C UST OMIZA TION Display Lamp Mode The FT-857 illumination lamp has four options for activation of the illumination. To set up the Lamp mode: 1. Press and hold in the [ FUNC ] key for one second to activate the Menu mode. 2. Rotate the SELECT knob to recall Menu Mode No-001 [ EXT MENU ] , then rotate the DIAL to[...]

93 FT-857 Operating Manual Display Color The LCD color may be changed using the Menu Mode for different operating status condi- tions. For example, the display may be configured to show a different color according to ARTS status, by Band, by Memory Group, by VFO/Memory/HOME/QMB status, or may be set to indicate different colors according to meter i[...]

94 FT-857 Operating Manual The Menu System allows you to customize a wide variety of transceiver performance as- pects and operating characteristics. Once you have gone through the various Menu customization procedures initiall y , you will find that you will not have to resort to them frequently during everyday operation. M ENU O PERA TION 1. Pres[...]

95 FT-857 Operating Manual M ENU O PERA TION Function Selects the device which is connected to the CAT/ LINEAR jack on the rear panel. Defines the “control” knob to be used for setting of the clarifier offset frequency. Selects whether the KEY jack shall be “Enabled” or “Disabled” while using the SSB/FM modes. Sets the CW carrier oscill[...]

96 FT-857 Operating Manual No Menu Item 059 MIC SEL 060 MTR ARX SEL 061 MTR ATX SEL 062 MTR PEAK HOLD 063 NB LEVEL 064 OP FILTER 1 065 PG A 066 PG B 067 PG C 068 PG ACC 069 PG P1 070 PG P2 071 PKT 1200 072 PKT 9600 073 PKT RATE 074 PROC LEVEL 075 RF POWER SET 076 RPT SHIFT 077 SCAN MODE 078 SCAN RESUME 079 SPLIT TONE 080 SQL/RF GAIN 081 SSB MIC GAI[...]

97 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No-001 [ EXT MENU ] Function : Enables/Disables the extended Menu Mode. Available Values : ON/OFF Default : OFF MENU MODE No•002 [ 144 MHz ARS ] Function : Activates/deactivates the Automatic Repeater Shift feature when operating on the 144 MHz band. Available Values : ON/OFF Default : ON (depending on transce[...]

98 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•008 [ ARTS BEEP ] Function : Selects the ARTS beep mode. Available Values : OFF/RANGE/ALL Default : RANGE OFF : No alert beeps sound; you must look at the display to determine current ARTS status. RANGE : A high tone beep will sound when the transceiver first detects that you are within range, and a low bee[...]

99 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•012 [ BEACON TIME ] Function : Selects the interval time (between message and message). Available Values : OFF/1 sec ~ 255 sec Default : OFF MENU MODE No•013 [ BEEP TONE ] Function : Selects the beep frequenc y. Available Values : 440/880/1760 Hz Default : 880 Hz MENU MODE No-014 [ BEEP VOL ] Function : S[...]

100 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•021 [ CLAR DIAL SEL ] Function : Defines the SELECT knob to be used for setting of the clarifier offset frequenc y. Available Values : SEL, MAIN (Selector/Main Dial Knobs) Default : SEL MENU MODE No-022 [ CW AUTO MODE ] Function : Selects whether the KEY jack shall be “Enabled” or “Disabled” while [...]

101 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No • 026 [ CW PADDLE ] Function : Enables/disables CW keying by the microphone’s [ UP ] / [ DWN ] keys. Available Values : ELEKEY/MICKEY Default : ELEKEY When this Menu Item is set to “MICKEY,” press the microphone’s [ UP ] key to send a “dot,” and press the microphone’s [ DWN ] key to send a ?[...]

102 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No • 032 [ CW WEIGHT ] Function : Sets the Dot:Dash ratio for the built-in electronic keyer. Available Values : 1:2.5 ~ 1:4.5 Default : 1:3.0 MENU MODE No-033 [ DCS CODE ] Function : Setting of the DCS code. Available Values : 104 Standard DCS codes Default : 023 You can set the DSC codes for Encode and De- c[...]

103 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•038 [ DIG MODE ] Function : Selects the mode and sideband (if applicable) in the DIG (Digital) mode. Available Values : RTTY-L/RTTY-U/PSK31-L/PSK31-U/USER-L/USER-U Default : RTT Y -L RTT Y -L : AFSK RTTY operation on the LSB mode RTTY-U : AFSK RTTY operation on the USB mode PSK31-L : PSK-31 operation on th[...]

104 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No-043 [ DISP INTENSITY ] Function : Setting of the display brightness level. Available Values : 1 (Dim) ~ 3 (Bright) Default : 3 MENU MODE No•044 [ DISP MODE ] Function : Sets up the LCD Lamp mode. Available Values : OFF/AUTO1/AUTO2/ON Default : AUTO2 OFF : Disables the LCD illumination. AUTO1 : Illuminates [...]

105 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No-048 [ DSP MIC EQ ] Function : Sets the DSP microphone equalization pattern. Available Values : OFF/LPF/HPF/BOTH Default : OFF OFF : This function is disabled. LPF : Lower frequencies are emphasized. HPF : Higher frequencies are emphasized. BOTH : Mid-range frequencies are emphasized. MENU MODE No-049 [ DSP N[...]

106 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•054 [ LOCK MODE ] Function : Selects the operation of the front panel’s [ LOCK ] ke y. Available Values : DIAL/FREQ/PANEL/ALL Default : DIAL DIAL : Locks the DIAL knob onl y. FREQ : Locks the front panel keys and knobs related to frequency control (such as [ BAND ( DWN ) ] and [ BAND ( UP ) ] ke y , [ A [...]

107 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•057 [ MEM/VFO DIAL MODE ] Function : Selects the function which is engaged when you press the SELECT knob thereby activating its “secondary” function). A vailable V alues : CW SIDETONE, CW SPEED, MHz/MEM GRP, MIC GAIN, NB LEVEL, RF POWER/STEP Default : MHz/MEM GRP MENU MODE No•058 [ MIC SCAN ] Functi[...]

108 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•061 [ MTR ATX SEL ] Function : Selects the analog meter display configuration while the transceiver is transmit- ting. Available Values : PWR, ALC, MOD, SWR, V LT , N/A, OFF Default : PWR PWR : Indicates the relative transmit power. ALC : Indicates the relative Automatic Level Control voltage. MOD : Indica[...]

109 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•068 [ PG ACC ] Function : Programming the optional MH-59 A8J microphone’s [ ACC ] button assignment. Available Values : All Multi Functions, all Menu Items (except Menu #065 through 070), MONI, Q.SPL, TCALL, A TC and USER. Default : MONI MENU MODE No•069 [ PG P1 ] Function : Programming the optional MH[...]

110 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No-076 [ RPT SHIFT ] Function : Sets the magnitude of the repeater shift. Available Values : 0.00 ~ 99.99 (MHz) Default : Depends on operating band and transceiver version. MENU MODE No•077 [ SCAN MODE ] Function : Selects the desired Scan-Resume mode. Available Values : TIME/BUSY/STOP Default : TIME This Men[...]

111 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No-083 [ TONE FREQ ] Function : Setting of the CTCSS Tone Fre- quenc y. Available Values : 50 Standard CTCSS tones Default : 88.5 Hz MENU MODE No-084 [ TOT TIME ] Function : Selects the Time-Out Timer time. Available Values : OFF/1 ~ 20 (min) Default : OFF MENU MODE No•085 [ TUNER/ATAS ] Function : Selects th[...]

112 FT-857 Operating Manual MENU MODE No•089 [ XVTR A FREQ ] Function : Allows an arbitrary frequency to be set on the displa y , to allow direct frequency readout during transverter operation; can also be used to account for frequency conversion inaccuracies when a known reference frequency is known. Available Values : 0,000,00 ~ 9999,999,00 (kH[...]

113 FT-857 Operating Manual CAT O PERA TION The FT-857 ’s CAT System allows the transceiver to be controlled by a personal computer. This allows multiple control operations to be fully automated as a single mouse click, or it allows a third-party software package (such as contest logging software) to communicate with the FT-857 without (redundant[...]

114 FT-857 Operating Manual CAT Data Protocol All commands sent from the computer to the transceiver consist of five-byte blocks, with up to 200 ms between each byte. The last byte in each block is the instruction opcode, while the first four bytes of each block are arguments (either parameters for that instruction, or dummy values required to pad [...]

115 FT-857 Operating Manual CAT O PERA TION O PCODE C OMMAND C HART Command Title LOCK ON/OFF PTT ON/OFF Set Frequency Operating Mode CLAR ON/OFF CLAR Frequency VFO-A/B SPLIT ON/OFF Repeater Offset Frequency Repeater Offset CTCSS/DCS Mode CTCSS Tone DCS Code Read RX Status Read TX Status Read Frequency & Mode Status ø ø P1 P1 ø P1 ø ø P1 P[...]

116 FT-857 Operating Manual Note 1 : CTCSS Tone Example : Set the CTCSS Tone Frequncy to 88.5 Hz (TX) and 100.0 Hz (RX) P1 P2 P3 P4 â â â â 08 85 10 00 = 88.5 Hz (TX), 100.0 Hz (RX) Note 2 : DCS Code Example : Set the DCS Code to 023 (TX) and 371 (RX) P1 P2 P3 P4 â â â â 00 23 03 71 = 023 (TX), 371 (RX) Note 3 : Read RX Status Note 4 : Read[...]

117 FT-857 Operating Manual Some or all transceiver settings can be reset to their factory-default states using one of the following power-on routines: r [ V/M ] + POWER on: Resets all memories and following menu settings to their factory- default values: Menu #06 ( AM STEP ), 33 ( DCS CODE ), 52 ( FM STEP ), 56 ( MEM TAG ), 76 ( RPT SHIFT ), 82 ( [...]

118 FT-857 Operating Manual You can transfer all data stored in one transceiver to another set by utilizing the handy “Cloning” feature. This requires a user-constructed cloning cable which connects the CAT/ LINEAR jacks on the two transceivers, as shown below. To clone from one transceiver to another, use the following procedure: 1. Insert the[...]

119 FT-857 Operating Manual O PTIONAL D IGIT AL S IGNAL P ROCESSING U NIT DSP-2 The DSP-2 is a highly-effective filtering technology which can dramatically improve re- ception and transmission. 1. Turn the transceiver’s power off by pressing and holding in the POWER switch for one second, then disconnect the DC cable from the INPUT jack on the re[...]

120 FT-857 Operating Manual O PTIONAL F IL TERS : YF-122S, YF-122C, AND YF-122CN 1. Turn the transceiver’s power off by pressing and holding in the PWR switch for one second, then disconnect the DC cable from the INPUT jack on the rear panel of the transceiver. 2. Referring to Figure 1, remove the seven screws affixing the top cover of the transc[...]

121 FT-857 Operating Manual O PTIONAL H IGH S T ABILITY R EFERENCE O SCILLA T OR TCXO-9 The TCXO-9 provides high stability over a wide range of ambient temperatures, so as to enhance digital-mode operating. 1. Turn the transceiver’s power off by pressing and holding in the POWER switch for one second, then disconnect the DC cable from the INPUT j[...]

122 FT-857 Operating Manual S ETUP OF M EMORIES FOR L OW E ARTH O RBIT ( LEO ) FM S A TELLITE O PERA TION Although the FT-857 is not capable of “full duplex” operation (simultaneous transmission and reception), its flexible memory system is ideal for configuring a set of memories for LEO satellite work. The example below is designed around the [...]

123 FT-857 Operating Manual Press the [ FUNC ] key momentaril y , then rotate the SELECT knob one click counter-clock- wise to re-select Multi Function Row “a” [ A / B, A=B, SPL ] . Press the [ A ]( A / B ) key to select VFOb (145.970 MHz). Again press the [ FUNC ] key momentaril y , and rotate the SELECT knob one click clock- wise to re-select[...]

124 FT-857 Operating Manual A PPENDIX S ETUP OF M EMORIES FOR L OW E ARTH O RBIT ( LEO ) FM S A TELLITE O PERA TION TAG ] to label each satellite memory (for example, “UO-14a” ~ “UO-14e” for the above five channels). A complete set of frequencies may be stored for each LEO satellite you wish to utilize, and once configured, the FT-857 provi[...]

125 FT-857 Operating Manual A PPENDIX MH-59 A8J R EMOTE M ICROPHONE The optional MH-59 A8J Remote Microphone provides control of the major functions of the FT-857 from the microphone’s keypad. The MH-59 A8J includes a rotary control knob for adjust the operating frequency and receiver audio volume level. Before connecting the MH-59 A8J , you must[...]

126 FT-857 Operating Manual A PPENDIX [ 4 ( HOME )] key Pressing this key recalls a favorite “Home” fre- quency memor y. This key generates the DTMF “4” tone during trans- mission, and frequency entry digit “4” during Di- rect Keypad Frequency Entr y. [ 5 ( t MODE )] ] key Pressing this key changes the operating mode: USB ð LSB ð PKT [...]

127 FT-857 Operating Manual A PPENDIX [ Ú ] key This key generates the DTMF “F ( Ú )” tone during transmission. [ 0 ( CNTL )] key This key generates the DTMF “0” tone during transmission, and frequency entry digit “0” during Direct Keypad Frequency Entr y. [ ENT ( # )] key Press this key to enter the Direct Keypad Frequency Entry mode[...]

128 FT-857 Operating Manual [ P1 ] key (Quick Split) Press this key to change the Sub VFO frequency (Main VFO frequency + 5 kHz) and automatically engage the ”Split” feature. Y ou may program the configuration of this ke y , to enable use of a different function, via Menu Mode No-069 [ PG P1 ] . [ P2 ] key Press this key to engage the 1750-Hz b[...]

1. Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by VERTEX STANDARD could void the user’s authorization to operate this device. 2. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions; (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interf[...]

Printed in Japan Copyright 2002 VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. All rights reserved. No portion of this manual may be reproduced without the permission of VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. 0212u-AK E H 0 0 7 M 100[...]