Vertex Standard FT-950 User Manual

FT-950

Operating Manual

About This Manual . . .

The FT-950 is a leading-edge transceiver with a number of new and exciting features, some of which may be unfamiliar to you. In order to gain the most enjoyment and operating efficiency from your FT-950, we recommend that you read this manual in its entirety, and keep it handy for reference as you explore the many capabilities of your new transceiver.

Before using your FT-950, be sure to read and follow the instructions in the “Before You Begin” section of this manual.

General Description

Congratulations on the purchase of your Yaesu amateur transceiver! Whether this is your first rig, or if Yaesu equipment is already the backbone of your station, rest assured that your transceiver will provide many hours of operating pleasure for years to come.

The FT-950 is an elite-class HF transceiver providing exceptional performance both on transmit and receive. The FT-950 is designed for the most competitive operating situations, whether you primarily operate in contest, DX, or digital-mode environments.

Built on the foundation of the popular FTdx9000 transceiver, and carrying the proud tradition of the FT-1000 series, the FT-950 provides up to 100 Watts of power output on SSB, CW, and FM (25 Watts AM carrier). Digital Signal Processing (DSP) is utilized throughout the design, providing leading-edge performance on both transmit and receive.

Available as an option for the FT-950 is the Data Management Unit (DMU-2000), which provides extensive display capabilities via a user-supplied computer monitor. Included are Band Scope, Audio Scope, X-Y Oscilloscope, World Clock, Rotator Control, and extensive transceiver status displays, in addition to station logging capability.

For exceptional protection from strong nearby incoming signals, the optional RF µTuning Kits may be connected via the rear panel, providing extraordinarily sharp selectivity to protect your receiver from close-in interference on a crowded band.

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You may select, in the front end, one of two RF preamplifiers, or IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) utilizing direct feed to the first mixer, and/or three levels of RF attenuation in 6-dB steps.

The FT-950 receiver utilizes DSP filtering, incorporating many of the features of the FTDX9000, such as Variable Bandwidth, IF Shift, and Passband Contour tuning. Digital Noise Reduction and Digital Auto-Notch Filtering are also provided, along with a manually-tuned IF Notch filter.

On the transmit side, the Yaesu-exclusive Three-Band Parametric Microphone Equalizer allows precise and flexible adjustment of the wave-form created by your voice and microphone. The Amplitude, Center Frequency, and Bandwidth of equalization may be adjusted independently for the low-frequency, mid-range, and high-audio-frequency spectra, and the transmitted bandwidth may also be adjusted, as well.

Advanced features include Direct Keyboard Frequency Entry and Band Change, Speech Processor, IF Monitor for Voice modes, CW Pitch control, CW Spot switch, Full CW QSK, adjustable IF Noise Blanker, and all-mode Squelch. Two TX/RX antenna ports are provided on the rear panel. Two key jacks are provided (one each on the front and rear panels), and they may be configured independently for paddle input or connection to a straight key or computer-driven keying interface. The CW Message Memory is provided.

Frequency setup is extraordinarily simple on the FT-950. Besides direct frequency entry for both the VFO-A and VFO-B, separate keys are provided for band selection, and each band key accesses three independent VFO frequency/mode/filter settings per band, so you can establish separate VFO settings for three different parts of each band. In addition, 99 memories are provided, each of which stores its own mode and IF filter selection, in addition to frequency, Clarifier offset, and scan-skip status. What’s more, five quick-recall (“QMB”) memories can instantly store operational settings at the push of a button.

The built-in automatic antenna tuner includes 100 memories of its own, automatically storing antenna matching settings for quick automatic recall later.

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Interfacing for digital modes is extremely simple with the FT-950, thanks to dedicated RTTY/PKT connection jack on the rear panel. Optimization of the filter passbands, DSP settings, carrier insertion point, and display offset are all possible via the Menu programming system.

The Yaesu CAT system provides a direct link to the transceiver CPU for computer control and customization of tuning, scanning, and other operating functions. The FT-950 includes a built-in data level converter for direction connection to a personal computer serial port. Yaesu products are supported by most all of the leading contest and DX logging programs, and the extensive programming protocol is included in this manual, if you wish to write your own software!

Advanced technology is only part of the FT-950 story. Vertex Standard stands behind our products with a worldwide network of dealers and service centers. We greatly appreciate your investment in the FT-950, and we look forward to helping you get the most out of your new transceiver. Please feel free to contact your nearest dealer, or one of Vertex Standard’s national headquarters offices, for technical advice, interfacing assistance, or accessory recommendation. And watch Vertex Standard U.S.A.’s Home Page for late-breaking information about Vertex, Standard Horizon, and Yaesu products: http://www.vertexstandard.com.

Please read this manual thoroughly, so as to gain maximum understanding of the full capability of the FT-950, and we thank you again for your purchase!

		Table of Contents
General Description	1
Accessories & Options	4
Supplied Accessories	4
Available Options	4
Before You Begin 5
Connecting AC Power	5
AC Input Voltage Selection		5
Extending the Front Feet 6
Adjusting the Main Tuning Dial Torque			6
Resetting the Microprocessor		7
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Resetting Memories (Only)				7
Menu Resetting		7
Full Reset		7
Installation and Interconnections				8
Antenna Considerations			8
About Coaxial Cable			8
Grounding		9
Connection of Antenna and Power Cables					10
Connection of Microphone and Headphone					11
Key, Keyer, and Computer-Driven Keying Interconnections							12
VL-1000 Linear Amplifier Interconnections 13
Interfacing to Other Linear Amplifiers					14
Plug/Connector Pinout Diagrams				15
Front Panel Controls & Switches				16
Display Indications			28
Rear Panel		32
Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands						35
Operation on 60-Meter (5 MHz) Band (U.S. version only)							38
CLAR (Clarifier) Operation on Main (VFO-A)						39
LOCK	40
DIM	40
Convenience Features			42
Dual Receive		42
Using Headphones for Dual Receive					43
Sideband Diversity Reception				43
Bandwidth Diversity Reception				44
Polarity Diversity			44
P.BACK (Audio Playback) from Main (VFO-A) Receiver							45
P.BACK feature from the optional FH-2 Remote Control Keypad								45
“MY Bands” Operation			46
Band Stack Operation			47
C.S (Custom Switch)			47
Rotator Control Functions				48
More Frequency Navigation Techniques					49
Keyboard Frequency Entry				49
Using the [SUB VFO-B] knob				49
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Using the UP/DOWN switches of the supplied MH-31B8 Hand Microphone								49
Receiver Operation (Front End Block Diagram)					50
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization)				51
ATT	51
RF Gain (SSB/CW/AM Modes)			52
Advanced Interference-Suppression Features: RF Front End 53
Using the VRF (Variable RF Front-end Filter)					53
Interference Rejection (Signals Off Frequency by Just a Few kHz)							54
R.FLT (Roofing Filters)		54
Interference Rejection (Signals within 3 kHz)					55
CONTOUR Control Operation			55
IF SHIFT Operation (SSB/CW/RTTY/PKT/AM Modes)						56
WIDTH (IF DSP Bandwidth) Tuning (SSB/CW/RTTY/PKT Modes)							57
Using IF Shift and Width Together57
IF Notch Filter Operation (SSB/CW/RTTY/PKT/AM Modes)						58
Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) Operation				59
Digital Notch Filter (DNF) Operation				59
NARROW (NAR) One-Touch IF Filter Selection					60
IF Noise Blanker (NB) Operation			61
Tools for Comfortable and Effective Reception					62
AGC (Automatic Gain Control)			62
SLOPED AGC Operation 63
Mute Feature (Main (VFO-A) Band)				63
SSB/AM Mode Transmission			64
Using the Automatic Antenna Tuner				66
ATU Operation 66
About ATU Operation		67
Lithium Battery Replacement			68
Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality				69
Using the Speech Processor (SSB/AM Mode)					69
Adjusting the SSB Transmitted Bandwidth (SSB Mode)						70
Parametric Microphone Equalizer (SSB/AM mode)					71
Transmitter Convenience Features72
Voice Memory (SSB/AM/FM modes)				72
Voice Memory Operation from the optional FH-2 Remote Control Keypad								73
VOX (Automatic TX/RX Switching using Voice Control: SSB/AM/FM Modes)								74
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MONITOR (SSB/AM/FM modes)		74
Split Operation Using the TX Clarifier (VFO-A Operation) 75
Split-Frequency Operation		76
VFO Tracking Feature	76
Quick Split Operation	77
CW Mode Operation	78

Setup for Straight Key (and Straight Key emulation) Operation					78
Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer				79
Full Break-in (QSK) Operation			79
Setting the Keyer Weight (Dot/Space:Dash) Ratio 80
Selecting the Keyer Operating Mode				80
CW Convenience Features			81
CW Spotting (Zero-Beating)			81
Using CW Reverse		82
CW Delay Time Setting		83
CW Pitch Adjustment		83
Contest Memory Keyer		84
Message Memory84
Transmitting in the Beacon Mode			85
TEXT Memory	86
Contest Number Programming			87
Decrementing the Contest Number				87
Contest Memory Keyer (Using the optional FH-2 Remote Control Keypad)						88
Message Memory88
TEXT Memory	90
FM Mode Operation		92
Basic Operation	92
Repeater Operation		93
Memory Operation		94
Convenient Memory functions			94
QMB (Quick Memory Bank)			95
Standard Memory Operation			96
Memory Storage 96
Memory Channel Recall		96
Checking a Memory Channel’s Status				97
Erasing Memory Channel Data			97
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Moving Memory Data to the Main Band (VFO-A)					98
Memory Tune Operation		98
Memory Groups	99
Memory Group Assignment			99
Choosing the Desired Memory Group				99
Operation on Alaska Emergency Frequency: 5167.5 kHz (U.S. Version Only) 100
VFO and Memory Scanning			102
VFO Scanning	102
Memory Scan	103
PMS 104
Packet Operation		105
Packet Setup (Including Subcarrier Frequency)					105
Basic Setup	105
RTTY (Radio Teletype) Operation			106
Setting Up for RTTY Operation			106
Basic Setup	106
Miscellaneous AFSK-Based Data Modes				107
Menu Mode	108
Using the Menu	108
Menu Mode Reset		108
AGC Group	112
DISPLAY Group	112
DVS Group	113
KEYER SETUP Group		114
GENERAL Group		115
S IF SFT Group	116
MODE-AM Group		117
MODE-CW Group		117
MODE-DAT Group		119
MODE-FM Group		119
MODE-RTY Group		120
MODE-SSB Group		120
RX AUDIO Group		121
RX DSP Group	121
SCOPE Group	123
TUNING Group	124
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TX AUDIO Group

124

TX GNRL Group 125

Specifications 126

		Accessories & Options
Supplied Accessories
Hand Microphone	1 pc	MH-31B8
DC Power Cord	1 pc	T9025225
Separe Fuse (25A)	1 pc	Q0000074
4-pin DIN Plug	1 pc	P0091004
5-pin DIN Plug	1 pc	P0091006
1/4-inch 3-contact Plug	1 pcs	P0090008
3.5 mm 3-contact Plug	1 pcs	P0091046
3.5 mm 2-contact Plug	1 pcs	P0090034
RCA Plug	2 pcs	P0091365
Operating Manual	1 pc
Warranty Card	1 pc
Available Options
MD-200A8X	Ultra-High-Fidelity Desk-Top Microphone
MD-100A8X	Desk-Top Microphone
YH-77STA	Lightweight Stereo Headphone
SP-2000	External Speaker with Audio Filter
VL-1000/VP-1000	Linear Amplifier/AC Power Supply
DMU-2000	Data Management Unit
RF µTuning Kit A	For 160 m Band
RF µTuning Kit B	For 80/40 m Bands
RF µTuning Kit C	For 30/20 m Bands
FH-2	Remote Control Keypad
DVS-6	Digital Voice Memory Unit

Before You Begin

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Power Connection

The DC power connector for the FT-950 must only be connected to a DC source providing 13.8 Volts DC (±10 %), and capable of at least 22 Amperes of current. Always observe proper polarity when making DC connection:

The RED DC power lead connects to the Positive (+) DC terminal: and The BLACK DC power lead connects to the Negative (–) DC terminal.

We recommend the use of the FP-1030A AC Power Supply. Other models of power supplies may be used with the FT-950, but the 13.8 VDC input voltage, 22-Ampere current capability, and DC cable polarity guidelines described above must be strictly followed.

Note that other manufacturers may use the same type of DC power connections as does your FT-950 transceiver, but the wiring configuration of the other manufacturer’s plug may be different from the specified for your transceiver. Serious damage can be caused if improper DC connections are made; consult with a qualified service technician when in doubt.

Caution: Permanent damage can result improper supply voltage, or reverse-polarity voltage, is applied to the FT-950. The Limited Warranty on this transceiver does not cover damage caused by application of AC voltage, reverse polarity DC, or DC voltage outside the specified range of 13.8 V ±10 %.

When replacing fuses, be certain to use a fuse of the proper rating. The FT-950 requires a 25 A blade fuse.

Extending the Front Feet

In order to elevate the front panel for easy viewing, the front left and right feet of the bottom case may be extended.

Pull the front legs outward from the bottom panel.

Rotate the legs counter-clockwise to lock them in the extended position. Be sure the legs have locked securely in place, because the transceiver is quite heavy and an unlocked leg could result in damage, should the transceiver move suddenly.

Retracting the Front Feet

Rotate the legs clockwise, and push them inward while rotating to the right. The front feel should now be locked in the retracted position.

Adjusting the Main Tuning Dial Torque

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The torque (drag) of the Main Tuning Dial knob may be adjusted according to your preferences. Simply hold down the rear skirt of the knob, and while holding it in place rotate the knob itself to the right to reduce the drag or to the left to increase the drag. Available adjustment range is 120°.

Resetting the Microprocessor Resetting Memories (Only)

Use this procedure to reset (clear out) the Memory channels previously stored, without affecting any configuration changes you may have made to the Menu settings.

1.Press the front panel’s [POWER] switch to turn the transceiver off.

2.Press and hold in the [A>M] button; while holding it in, press and hold in the front panel’s [POWER] switch to turn the transceiver on. Once the transceiver comes on, you may release the [A>M] button.

Menu Resetting

Use this procedure to restore the Menu settings to their factory defaults, without affecting the memories you have programmed.

1.Press the front panel’s [POWER] switch to turn the transceiver off.

2.Press and hold in the [MENU] button; while holding it in, press and hold in the front panel’s [POWER] switch to turn the transceiver on. Once the transceiver comes on, you may release the [MENU] button.

Full Reset

Use this procedure to restore all Menu, Memory settings, and Tuner Memory settings to their original factory defaults. All Memories will be cleared out by this procedure.

1.Press the front panel’s [POWER] switch to turn the transceiver off.

2.Press and hold in the [FAST] and [LOCK] buttons; while holding them in, press and hold in the front panel’s [POWER] switch to turn the transceiver on. Once the

transceiver comes on, you may release the other two switches.

Important Note: When the optional µTuning Kit is connected to the FT-950, disconnect the all cables from the µTuning Kit then perform the Full Reset.

Installation and Interconnections

Antenna Considerations

The FT-950 is designed for use with any antenna system providing a 50 Ohm resistive

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impedance at the desired operating frequency. While minor excursions from the 50-Ohm specification are of no consequence, the transceiver’s Automatic Antenna Tuner may not be able to reduce the impedance mismatch to an acceptable value if the Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) present at the Antenna jack is greater than 3:1.

Every effort should, therefore, be made to ensure that the impedance of the antenna system utilized with the FT-950 be as close as possible to the specified 50-Ohm value. Note that the “G5RV” type antenna does not provide a 50-Ohm impedance on all HF Amateur bands, and an external wide-range antenna coupler must be used with this antenna type.

Any antenna to be used with the FT-950 must, ultimately, be fed with 50 Ohm coaxial cable. Therefore, when using a “balanced” antenna such as a dipole, remember that a balun or other matching/balancing device must be used so as to ensure proper antenna performance.

About Coaxial Cable

Use high-quality 50-Ohm coaxial cable for the lead-in to your FT-950 transceiver. All efforts at providing an efficient antenna system will be wasted if poor quality, lossy coaxial cable is used. This transceiver utilizes standard “M” (“PL-259”) type connectors.

Grounding

The FT-950 transceiver, like any other HF communications apparatus, requires an effective ground system for maximum electrical safety and best communications effectiveness. A good ground system can contribute to station efficiency in a number of ways:

It can minimize the possibility of electrical shock to the operator.

It can minimize RF currents flowing on the shield of the coaxial cable and the chassis of the transceiver; such currents may lead to radiation which can cause interference to home entertainment devices or laboratory test equipment.

It can minimize the possibility of erratic transceiver/accessory operation caused by RF feedback and/or improper current flow through logic devices.

An effective earth ground system may take several forms; for a more complete discussion, see an appropriate RF engineering text. The information below is intended only as a guideline.

Typically, the ground connection consists of one or more copper-clad steel rods, driven

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into the ground. If multiple ground rods are used, they should be positioned in a “V” configuration, and bonded together at the apex of the “V” which is nearest the station location. Use a heavy, braided cable (such as the discarded shield from type RG-213 coaxial cable) and strong cable clamps to secure the braided cable(s) to the ground rods. Be sure to weatherproof the connections to ensure many years of reliable service. Use the same type of heavy, braided cable for the connections to the station ground bus (described below).

Inside the station, a common ground bus consisting of a copper pipe of at least 25 mm (1”) diameter should be used. An alternative station ground bus may consist of a wide copper plate (single-sided circuit board material is ideal) secured to the bottom of the operating desk. Grounding connections from individual devices such as transceivers, power supplies, and data communications devices (TNCs, etc.) should be made directly to the ground bus using a heavy, braided cable.

Do not make ground connections from one electrical device to another, and thence to the ground bus. This so-called “Daisy-Chain” grounding technique may nullify any attempt at effective radio frequency grounding. See the drawing below for examples of proper grounding techniques.

Inspect the ground system--inside the station as well as outside--on a regular basis so as to ensure maximum performance and safety.

Besides following the above guidelines carefully, note that household or industrial gas lines must never be used in an attempt to establish an electrical ground. Cold water pipes may, in some instances, help in the grounding effort, but gas lines represent a significant explosion hazard, and must never be used.

Connection of Antenna and Power Cables

Please follow the outline in the illustration regarding the proper connection of antenna coaxial cables, as well as the DC power cable.

Use a short, thick, braided cable to connect your station equipment to the buried ground rod (or alternative earth ground system).

Advice:

Do not position this apparatus in a location with direct exposure to sunshine.

Do not position this apparatus in a location exposed to dust and/or high humidity. Ensure adequate ventilation around this apparatus, so as to prevent heat build-up and possible reduction of performance due to high heat.

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Do not install this apparatus in a mechanically-unstable location, or where objects may fall onto this product from above.

To minimize the possibility of interference to home entertainment devices, take all precautionary steps including separation of TV/FM antennas from Amateur transmitting antennas to the greatest extent possible, and keep transmitting coaxial cables separated from cables connected to home entertainment devices.

Ensure that the DC power cable is not subject to undue stress or bending, which could damage the cable or cause it to be accidentally unplugged from the rear panel DC input jack.

Be absolutely certain to install your transmitting antenna(s) such that they cannot possibly come in contact with TV/FM radio or other antennas, or with outside power or telephone lines.

Connection of Microphone and Headphone

Key, Keyer, and Computer-Driven Keying Interconnections

The FT-950 includes a host of features for the CW operator, the functions of which will be detailed in the “Operation” section later. Besides the built-in Electronic Keyer, two key jacks are provided, one each on the front and rear panels, for convenient connection to keying devices.

The Menu system allows you to configure the front and rear panel KEY jacks according to the device you wish to connect. For example, you may connect your keyer paddle to the front panel KEY jack, and use Menu item “037 A1A F-TYPE” for paddle input, while connecting the rear panel’s KEY jack to the keying line from your personal computer (which emulates a “straight key” for connection purposes), and configure the rear panel jack using Menu item “039 A1A R-TYPE.”

Both KEY jacks on the FT-950 utilize “Positive” keying voltage. Key-up voltage is approximately +5V DC, and key-down current is approximately 1 mA. When connecting a key or other device to the KEY jacks, use only a 3-pin (“stereo”) 1/4” phone plug; a 2-pin plug will place a short between the ring and (grounded) shaft of the plug, resulting in a constant “key-down” condition in some circumstances.

VL-1000 Linear Amplifier Interconnections

Be sure that both the FT-950 and VL-100 are turned off, then follow the installation recommendations contained in the illustration.

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Note:

Please refer to the VL-1000 Operating Manual for details regarding amplifier operation.

Please do not attempt to connect or disconnect coaxial cables when your hands are wet.

About the CONTROL Cable

The VL-1000 may be operated with the FT-950 whether or not the CONTROL Cable is connected; however, the CONTROL Cable allows you to tune up the amplifier automatically by just pressing the [F SET] or [TUNE] key on the VL-1000, so as to transmit a carrier for tuning purposes.

Set the front panel’s INPUT switch to the “INPUT2”.

To link the FT-950 and VL-1000 Power switches, set the VL-1000 REMOTE switch to the ON position.

Interfacing to Other Linear Amplifiers

The TX GND OUT pin (pin 2) of the LINEAR jack is a transistor “open collector” circuit, capable of handling positive amplifier relay coil voltages of up to +60VDC at 200 mA or +30 VDC at 1 A. If you plan on using multiple linear amplifiers for different bands, you must provide external band-switching of the “Linear Tx” relay control line from the “TX GND OUT” line at the LINEAR jack.

Important Note!: Do not exceed the maximum voltage or current ratings for the “TX GND OUT” pin (pin 2) of the LINEAR jack. This line is not compatible with negative DC voltages, nor AC voltages of any magnitude.

Most amplifier control relay systems require only low DC voltage/current switching capability (typically, +12V DC at 25 ~ 75 mA), and the switching transistor in the FT-950 will easily accommodate such amplifiers.

Plug/Connector Pinout Diagrams

IMPORTANT NOTE:

The μ-TUNE and DMU connectors are special connectors for this transceiver. Please do not connect any accessory or other device not specifically approved by Vertex Standard. Failure to observe this precaution may cause damage not covered by the Limited Warranty on this apparatus.

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Front Panel Controls & Switches

1. [POWER] Switch

Press and hold in this switch for two seconds to turn the transceiver on. Press and hold in this switch for two seconds, similarly, to turn the transceiver off.

2. [ANT 1-2] Switch

Pressing this selects either the ANT 1 or 2 jack on the rear panel, and allows convenient antenna switching at the press of button. The selected antenna jack is indicated at the Block Diagram Display in the display.

3. [TUNE] Switch

This is the on/off switch for the FT-950’s Automatic Antenna Tuner.

Pressing this button momentarily places the antenna tuner in line between the transmitter final amplifier and the antenna jack (“TUNER” icon will appear in the display). Reception is not affected.

Pressing and holding in this button for two seconds, while receiving in an amateur band, activates the transmitter for a few seconds while the automatic antenna tuner rematches the antenna system impedance for minimum SWR. The resulting setting is automatically stored in one of the antenna tuner’s 100 memories, for instant automatic recall later when the receiver is tuned near the same frequency.

Pressing this button momentarily, while the Tuner is engaged, will take the Automatic Antenna tuner out of the transmit line.

Note: When the Automatic Antenna Tuner is tuning itself, a signal is being transmitted. Therefore, be absolutely certain that an antenna or dummy load is connected to the selected antenna jack before pressing and holding in the [TUNE] button to start antenna tuning.

4. [MOX] Switch

Pressing this button engages the PTT (Push to Talk) circuit, to activate the transmitter (the LED inside this button will glow red). It must be turned off (the red LED will be off) for reception. This button replicates the action of the Push to Talk (PTT) switch on the microphone. When engaging the [MOX] button, or otherwise causing a transmission to be started, be certain you have either an antenna or 50-Ohm dummy load connected to the selected Antenna jack.

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5. [VOX] Switch

This button enables automatic voice-actuated transmitter switching in the SSB, AM, and FM modes. While activated, the LED inside this button glows red. The controls affecting VOX operation are via the Menu item “114 TGEN V GAIN”, “115 TGEN VOX DLY”, and “116 TGEN ANTI VOX”. By proper adjustment of these controls, hands-free voice-actuated operation is possible.

6. [MONI] (Monitor) Switch

This button enables the transmit monitor in SSB, CW, AM, and FM modes. While activated, the “MONI” icon appears in the display. Adjustment of the Monitor level is accomplished using the [MONI] knob.

Advice: When using headphones, the Monitor is highly useful for making adjustments to the Parametric Equalizer or other voice quality adjustments, because the voice quality heard in the headphones is such a “natural” reproduction of the transmitted audio quality.

7. [PROC] (Processor) Switch

This button enables the Parametric Microphone Equalizer and Speech Processor for SSB/AM transmission. When the Parametric Microphone Equalizer is activated, the “MIC EQ” icon appears in the display. When the Speech Processor is activated, the “MIC EQ” and “PROC” icons appear in the display. Adjustment of the Processor level is accomplished via the Menu item “109 TGEN PROCLVL”.

Advice:

The Speech Processor is a tool for increasing the average power output through a compression technique. However, if the Processor level is advanced too far, the increase in compression becomes counter-productive, as intelligibility will suffer. We recommend that you monitor the sound of your signal using the Monitor (with headphones).

When the optional Data Management Unit (DMU-2000) is connected, you may use the Audio Scope/Oscilloscope page to help you adjust the setting of the compression level of the Speech Processor for optimum performance using your voice and microphone.

8. [SPOT] Switch

This button turns on the CW receiver spotting tone; by matching the SPOT tone to that

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of the incoming CW signal (precisely the same pitch), you will be “zero beating” your transmitted signal on to the frequency of the other station.

The offset tone frequency will indicate at the frequency display area of the display while this button is pressed.

9. [BK-IN] Switch

This button turns the CW break-in capability on and off. While CW break-in is activated, the “BK-IN” icon appears in the display.

10. [KEYER] Switch

This button toggles the internal CW keyer on and off. While activated, the “KEYER” icon appears in the display. The Keyer sending speed is adjusted via the front panel’s [SPEED] knob and the CW Hang Time is adjusted via the Menu item “044 A1A DELAY”.

11. [AGC] Switch

This button selects the AGC characteristics for the receiver. Available selections are FAST, MID, SLOW, or AUTO, and the “AGC” icon will change according to the AGC characteristics selected.

Press the [AGC] button repeatedly to select the desired receiver-recovery time constant. Press and hold in the [AGC] button for two seconds to disable the AGC (for testing or weak-signal reception).

Advice:

The Attenuator may be used in conjunction with the [IPO] button to provide two stages of signal reduction when an extremely strong signal is being received.

If the AGC receiver-recovery time is set to “Off” by pressing and holding in the [AGC] button, the S-meter will no longer deflect. Additionally, you will likely encounter distortion on stronger signals, as the IF amplifiers and the following stages are probably being overloaded.

12. PHONES Jack

A 1/4-inch, 3-contact jack accepts either monaural or stereo headphones with 2- or 3-contact plugs. When a plug is inserted, the loudspeaker is disabled.

Note: When wearing headphones, we recommend that you turn the AF Gain levels down to their lowest settings before turning power on, to minimize the impact on your hearing caused by audio “pops” during switch-on.

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13. [METER] Switch

This button determines the function of the meter during transmission.

Press this button to change the meter function in the transmit mode as follows:

ALC SWR	ID VDD COMP ALC ……
ALC:	Indicates the relative ALC voltage.
SWR:	Indicates the Standing Wave Ratio (Forward: Reflected).
ID:	Indicates the final amplifier drain current.
VDD:	Indicates the final amplifier drain voltage.
COMP:	Indicates the speech compressor level (SSB modes only).

14. [MIC GAIN] Knob

This knob adjusts the microphone input level for (non-processed) SSB and AM transmission.

Advice: If you adjust the [MIC GAIN] knob while speaking in a somewhat louder than normal voice level, watch the ALC level and adjust the [MIC GAIN] knob so that the ALC reaches just to the right edge of the ALC scale. Then, when you speak in a more normal voice level, you’ll be certain not to be over-driving the mic amplifier stage.

15. [SPEED] Knob

This knob adjusts the keying speed of the internal CW keyer (4 ~ 60 WPM). Clockwise rotation increases the sending speed.

When turning this knob while pressing the [KEYER] button, the frequency display shows the keying speed.

16. Microphone Connector

This 8-pin jack accepts input from a microphone utilizing a traditional YAESU HF transceiver pinout.

17. KEY Jack

This 1/4-inch, 3-contact jack accepts a CW key or keyer paddles (for the built-in electronic keyer), or output from an external electronic keyer. Pinout is shown on page ??. Key up voltage is 5 V, and key down current is 1 mA. This jack may be configured for keyer, “Bug,” “straight key”, or computer keying interface operation via Menu item “037 A1A F-TYPE” (see page ??). There is another jack with the same name on the rear panel, and it may be configured independently for Internal Keyer or

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pseudo-straight-key operation.

Note: You cannot use a 2-contact plug in this jack (to do so produces a constant “key down” condition).

18. [MONI] Knob

This knob adjusts the audio level of the transmit RF monitor during transmission (relative to the [AF GAIN] knob), when activated by the [MONI] button.

19. [SQL] Knob

This knob sets the signal level threshold which at the receiver audio is muted, in all modes. It is very useful during local rag-chews, to eliminate noise between incoming transmissions. This control is normally kept fully counter-clockwise (off), except when scanning and during FM operation.

20. [SHIFT] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to adjust the IF DSP bandwidth using the [SELECT] knob. While activated, the LED inside this button glows orange.

21. [WIDTH] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to adjust the overall bandwidth of the IF DSP filter using the [SELECT] knob. While activated, the LED inside this button glows orange.

22. [CONT] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to select the DSP Contour filter response using the [SELECT] knob. While activated, the LED inside this button glows orange.

23. [NOTCH] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to adjust the center frequency of the IF Notch filter using the [SELECT] knob. While activated, the LED inside this button glows orange.

24. [µ-TUNE] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to adjust the center frequency of the µ-Tuning filter passband using the [SELECT] knob, when the optional RF µTuning Kit is connected. While activated, the LED inside this button glows orange.

25. [CLEAR] Switch

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Pressing this button to reset the status of the functions which is selected from the five buttons at the left of this button to factory default.

26. [SELECT] Knob

This knob is used to adjust the status of the functions depending on the five buttons located above this knob.

FUNCTION Switch	EFFECT
SHIFT	Rotate this knob to vary the passband of the IF DSP filter by 20
	Hz steps. The total adjustment range is ±1 kHz.
	The position of the passband can be observed on the display.
WIDTH	Rotate this knob to set the overall bandwidth of the DSP IF
	filter.
	Counter-clockwise rotation reduces the bandwidth, while
	clockwise rotation increases the bandwidth.
	The current bandwidth can be observed on the display.
CONT	Pressing this knob to turn the CONTOUR filter on and off.
	Rotate this knob to select the CONTOUR filter response.
	The peak position of the CONTOUR filter can be observed on
	the display.
NOTCH	Pressing this knob to turn the IF NOTCH filter on and off.
	Rotate this knob to adjust the center frequency of the IF
	NOTCH filter.
	The null position of the IF NOTCH filter can be observed on the
	display.
µ-TUNE	Pressing this knob to turn the optional RF µTuning Kit on and
	off.
	Rotate this knob to adjust the center frequency of the µ-Tuning
	filter.
	The peak position of the µ-Tuning filter can be observed on the
	Tuning Offset Indicator field of the display.

This knob also uses to select the Menu item when the Menu mode is engaged.

Press and hold this knob for two seconds to activate the optional Voice Memory feature for the SSB/AM/FM modes, or the Contest Keyer for the CW mode. See page ?? (Voice Memory feature) or page ?? (Contest Keyer) for details.

27. [(VFO-A) RX] Indicator/Switch

This button, when pressed, the transceiver receives the VFO-A frequency. The LED inside this button will glow green when the transceiver receives the VFO-A frequency. When the transceiver receives the VFO-A frequency, pressing this button momentarily will mute the receiver, and the indicator will blink. Pressing the button once more will restore receiver operation, and the indicator will glow green steadily.

28. QMB (Quick Memory Bank) Switches

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[STO] (Store) Button

Pressing this button copies VFO-A contents (frequency, mode, bandwidth, and also repeater direction/shift frequency and CTCSS functions on the FM mode) into consecutive QMB Memories.

[RCL] (Recall) Button

Pressing this button recalls one of up to five Quick Memory Bank memories for operation.

29. [NAR] (Narrow) Switch

In the SSB/CW/RTTY/PSK modes, this button is used to set the bandwidth of the DSP (digital) IF filters to Narrow bandwidth.

Advice: You may adjust the bandwidth using the [SELECT] knob when the [WIDTH] button is engaged.

In the AM mode, this button is used to toggle the receiver’s bandwidth between wide (9 kHz) and narrow (6 kHz).

In the FM mode on the 28 MHz and 50 MHz bands, this button is used to toggle the FM deviation/bandwidth between wide (±5.0 kHz Dev./25.0 kHz BW) and narrow (±2.5 kHz Dev./12.5 kHz BW).

30. [SPLIT] Switch

Pressing this button to activate split frequency operation between the VFO-A (used for reception) and the VFO-B (used for transmission). If you press and hold in the [SPLIT] button for two seconds, the “Quick Split” feature will be engaged, whereby the VFO-B will automatically be set to a frequency 5 kHz higher than the VFO-A frequency with same operating mode, and the transceiver will be placed in the Split mode.

31. [TXW] (TX Watch) Switch

Pressing this button lets you monitor the transmit frequency when split frequency operation is engaged. Release the button to return to normal operation.

32. [C.S] Switch

Press this button momentarily to recall a favorite Menu Selection directly.

To program a Menu selection as the short-cut, press the [MENU] button to enter the Menu, then select the Menu item you want to set as the short-cut. Now press and hold in the [C.S] button for two seconds; this will lock in the selected Menu item as the short-cut.

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33. [MENU] Switch

This button is used for gaining access to the Menu system, for configuring various transceiver characteristics. Menu operation is described in detail, in this manual, beginning on page ??.

Important note: pressing this button momentarily activates the Menu, and the Menu items will appear on the display; once you are finished, you must press and hold in the [MENU] button for two seconds to save any configuration changes (momentarily pressing the [MENU] button to exit will not save the changes).

38. Main Tuning Dial Knob

This large knob adjusts the operating frequency of the VFO-A or a recalled memory. Clockwise rotation of this knob increases the frequency. Default tuning increments are 10 Hz (100 Hz in AM and FM modes); when the [FAST] button is pressed, the tuning steps increase. The available steps are:

Operating Mode	One Step*	One Dial Rotation
LSB/USB/CW/RTTY/PKT(LSB)	10 Hz (100 Hz)	10 kHz (100 kHz)
AM/FM/PKT(FM)	100 Hz (1 kHz)	100 kHz (1 MHz)

* Numbers in parentheses indicate steps when the [FAST] button is “ON”. Advice: The tuning steps for the Main Tuning Dial knob are set, at the factory, to 10 Hz per step. Via Menu item “084 TUN DIALSTP,” however, you may change this setting from 10 Hz to 1 Hz instead. When 1 Hz basic steps are selected, the action of the [FAST] button will be changed to 1/10 of the values listed above.

39. [(VFO-A)TX] Indicator/Switch

When this button is pushed, the LED inside this button will glow red. The transceiver transmits on the VFO-A frequency (subject to any Clarifier offset, of course) when press the PTT switch.

Advice: If this indicator is not illuminated, it means that the [(VFO-B)TX] Indicator/Switch has been selected (it will be glowing red). In this case, transmission will be effected on the frequency and mode programmed for the VFO-B.

40. [FAST] Switch

Pressing this button will increase or decrease the tuning rate of the Main Tuning Dial knob (for VFO-A frequency) and the [CLA/VFO-B] knob (for VFO-B frequency) a factor of ten, as mentioned in the previous section.

When this function is activated, the “FAST” icon appears in the display.

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Advice: This switch will be affects to the VFO-A and VFO-B independently.

41. [LOCK] Switch

This button toggles locking of the Main Tuning Dial knob (for VFO-A frequency tuning) and the [CLA/VFO-B] knob (for VFO-B frequency tuning). When the button is active, the Main Tuning Dial knob and [CLAR/VFO-B] knob can still be turned, but the frequency will not change, and the “LOCK” icon appears in the display.

Advice: This switch will be affects to the VFO-A and VFO-B independently.

42. [A>B] Switch

Press this button momentarily to transfer data from the VFO-A frequency (or a recalled memory channel) to the VFO-B, overwriting any previous contents in the VFO-B. Use this key to set both VFO-A and VFO-B to the same frequency and mode.

43. [A<>B] Switch

Pressing this button momentarily exchanges the contents of the VFO-A (or a recalled memory channel) and the VFO-B.

44. [V/M] Switch

This button toggles frequency control between the memory system and the VFO-A. Either “MR” or “MT” icon will be displayed to the under the frequency display field to indicate the current selection. If you have tuned off of a Memory channel frequency (“MT” icon is appeared), pressing this button returns the display to the original memory contents (“MR” icon is appeared), and pressing it once more returns operation to the VFO-A (no icon).

45. [M>A] Switch

Pressing this button momentarily displays the contents of the currently-selected memory channel for 10 seconds.

Holding this button in for two seconds copies the data from the currently-selected memory to the VFO-A, as two beeps sound. Previous data in the VFO-A will be overwritten.

46. [A>M] Switch

Pressing this button momentarily displays the contents of the currently-selected memory channel for 10 seconds.

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Pressing and holding in this key for two seconds (until the double beep) copies the current operating data into the currently selected memory channel, overwriting any previous data stored there.

47. [BAND] Keys

These keys allow one-touch selection of the desired Amateur band (1.8 ~ 50 MHz). What’s more, these keys may be used for direct entry of a desired operating frequency during VFO operation.

48. MODE Switches

Pressing one of these switches selects the operating mode. Per the chart below, repeated presses of a particular switch may cause the precious mode to be selected from within a mode group (for example pressing [SSB] button repeatedly toggles between “LSB” and “USB” mode.

Switch	Variable Mode Selections
[SSB]	LSB	USB
[CW]	CW(LSB)		CW(USB)
[AM/FM]	AM	FM
[RTTY/PKT]	RTTY(LSB)		RTTY(USB) PKT(LSB) PKT(USB) PKT(FM)

49. [ATT] Switch

This button selects the degree of attenuation, if any, to be applied to the receiver input. Available selections are –6 dB, –12 dB, –18 dB, or OFF, and the selected attenuation level appears in the ATT column of the Block Diagram Display on the display.

Advice: The Attenuator may be used in conjunction with the [IPO] switch to provide two stages of signal reduction when an extremely strong signal is being received.

50. [IPO] (Intercept Point Optimization) Switch

This button may be used to set the optimum front end characteristics of the receiver circuit for a very strong-signal environment. Available selections are AMP 1 (low distortion amplifier), AMP 2 (2-stage low-distortion RF amplifier), or ON (bypasses the front end RF amplifier), and the selected receiver RF amplifier appears at the IPO column of the Block Diagram Display on the display.

51. [R.FLT] (Roofing Filter) Switch

This button selects the bandwidth of the receiver’s first IF Roofing Filter. Available selections are 3 kHz, 6 kHz, 15 kHz, or Auto, and the selected bandwidth appears in

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the FLT column of the Block Diagram Display on the display.

Advice: Because the roofing filter is in the first IF, the protection it provides against interference is quite significant. When set to AUTO, the SSB bandwidth is 6 kHz, while CW is 3 kHz and FM/RTTY are 15 kHz. On a crowded SSB band, however, you may wish to select the 3 kHz filter, for the maximum possible interference rejection.

52. [NB] Switch

This button turns the IF Noise Blanker on and off.

Press this button momentarily to reduce short-duration pulse noise; the “NB” icon will appear in the display.

Press and hold in this button for one second to reduce longer-duration man-made pulse noises; the “NB” icon will blink for three seconds, then will appear continuously in the display.

Press this button again to disable the noise blanker; the “NB” icon will disappear.

53.[AF GAIN] -o- [RF GAIN] Knobs [AF GAIN] Knob

The inner [AF GAIN] knob sets the receiver’s audio volume level. Typically, you will operate with this control set between the 9 o’clock and 10 o’clock positions.

[RF GAIN] Knob

The outer [RF GAIN] knob is the receiver’s RF gain control, which adjusts the gain of the receiver’s RF and IF amplifier stages. This control is normally left in the fully clockwise position.

54.[RX CLAR] Switch

Pressing this button activates the RX Clarifier, to allow offsetting the receiving frequency temporarily. Press this button once more to return the receiver to the original frequency; the Clarifier offset will still be present, though, in case you want to use it again. To cancel the Clarifier offset, press the [CLEAR] button.

55. [TX CLAR] Switch

Pressing this button activates the TX Clarifier, to allow offsetting the transmit frequency temporarily. Press this button once more to return the transmitter to the original frequency; the Clarifier offset will still be present, though, in case you want to use it again. To cancel the Clarifier offset, press the [CLEAR] button.

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56. [CLEAR] Switch

Pressing this button clears out any frequency offset you have programmed into the Clarifier register (thereby setting the offset to “Zero”).

57. [(VFO-B)RX] Indicator/Switch

This is the button that switches the receiving frequency to the VFO-B, the green LED imbedded within the button will light up. Pressing this button again will return the receiving frequency to the VFO-A, and the imbedded green LED will turn off.

58. [(VFO-B)TX] Indicator/Switch

This is the button that turns the VFO-B transmitter “On” and “Off”. When this button is pressed to transfer transmitter control to the VFO-B frequency and mode, the red LED imbedded within the button will light up. Pressing this button again will transfer frequency/mode control back to the VFO-A side, and the red LED imbedded within this button will turn off.

59. [BAND] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to select the operating band (Amateur bands) using the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob.

60. [GRP] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to select the memory group using the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob.

61. [MHz] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to tune the VFO frequency down or up in 1 MHz increments, using the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob.

62. [MCH] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to select the memory channel using the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob.

63. [CLAR/VFO-B] Knob

This knob usually tunes the Clarifier offset frequency up to ±9.99 kHz, otherwise, this knob is used to adjust the status of the functions depending on the five buttons located around this knob.

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FUNCTION Switch	EFFECT
[(VFO-B)RX]	Rotate this knob to adjust the VFO-B frequency by a same step
Indicator/Switch	as the Main Tuning Dial knob.
	The frequency display will be changed to the VFO-B frequency.
[BAND] button	Rotate this knob to select the amateur band.
[GRP] button	Rotate this knob to select the CONTOUR filter response.
	The peak position of the CONTOUR filter can be observed on
	the display.
[MHz] button	Rotate this knob to tune the VFO frequency in 1 MHz step.
[MCH] button	Rotate this knob to select the memory channel.

Display Indications

1. PROC

This indicator appears whenever the DSP Speech Processor is activated.

2. MONI

This indicator appears whenever the transmit monitor circuit is activated.

3. KEYER

This indicator appears whenever the internal CW keyer is activated.

4. BK-IN

This indicator appears whenever CW break-in operation is activated.

5. NB

This indicator appears when the receiver’s “short-duration” Noise Blanker is activated. This indicator will blink for three seconds, and thereafter appears continuously, when the receiver’s “longer-pulse” Noise Blanker is activated.

6. NAR

This indicator appears whenever the receiver’s narrow IF DSP filter is engaged.

7. S/PO

Indicates the received signal strength, from S-0 to S-9+60dB on receiving. Indicates the RF Power Output, from 0 to 150 Watts on transmit.

Advice: The S and PO meters can be provided the Peak-hold function via the Menu item “007 DISP PKH S” and “008 DISP PKH PO”.

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8. Multi Function Meter

There are five functions multi-meter. The bottom five selections in the list below are transmit functions, determined by the selections of the [METER] switch.

ALC:	Indicates the relative ALC voltage.
SWR:	Indicates the Standing Wave Ratio (Forward: Reflected), from 1.0 to 3.0.
ID:	Indicates the final amplifier drain current, 0 to 30 ampere.
VDD:	Indicates the final amplifier drain voltage (nominal value: 13.8 V).

COMP: Indicates the speech compressor level, from 0 to 30 dB.

Advice: The ALC and ID meters can be provided the Peak-hold function via the Menu item “009 DISP PKH ALC” and “010 DISP PKH ID”.

9. TUNER

This indicator appears when the internal Automatic Antenna Tuner is activated.

10. HI-SWR

This indicator appears if the directional coupler and microprocessor detect an abnormally high SWR condition (over 3.0:1) that cannot be resolved by the Automatic Antenna Tuner.

Note: If this indicator appears, check to be sure that you have the correct antenna selected on the current operating band. If so, you will need to check the condition of the antenna, its coaxial cable, and/or the connectors on the cable so as to locate and correct the fault.

11. MIC EQ

This indicator appears whenever the Three-Band Parametric Microphone Equalizer is activated via the Menu.

12. REC

This indicator appears while the optional Voice Memory Unit is recording your voice message, or the Contest Keyer is recording your CW keying.

13. PLAY

This indicator appears while the optional Voice Memory Unit is playing back the recorded your voice message, or the Contest Keyer is playing back the recorded CW keying.

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14.Block Diagram Display ANT (1, 2):

Indicates the antenna selected for operation by the front panel’s [ANT 1-2] button. ATT (OFF, –6 dB, –12 dB, –18 dB):

Indicates the attenuation level selected for operation by the front panel’s [AGC] button.

FLT (µ-TUNE, THRU):

Indicates the RF filter selected for operation by the front panel [µ-TUNE] button. Advice: The µ-TUNE filter is an option. The “µ-TUNE” icon will not appear when the optional µ-TUNE unit is not connected.

IPO (AMP 1, AMP 2, ON):

Indicates the front end RF amplifier selected for operation by the front panel [IPO] button.

R.FLT

Indicates the IF Roofing Filter selected: AUTO (mode-determined), 3 kHz, 6 kHz, or 15 kHz.

AGC (AUTO, FAST, MID, SLOW):

Indicates the AGC decay time selected for operation by the front panel [AGC] switch.

15.DNR

This indicator appears whenever the Digital Noise Reduction feature is activated.

16. DNF

This indicator appears whenever the Digital Notch Filter is activated.

17. CONTOUR

The peak position of the CONTOUR Filter is depicted graphically here when the CONTOUR Filter is activated.

18. NOTCH

The null position of the IF Notch Filter is depicted graphically here when the IF Notch Filter is activated.

19. WIDTH

Indicates the bandwidth of the DSP IF filter.

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20. SHIFT

Indicates the peak position of the DSP IF filter.

21. TX

This indicator appears during transmission.

22. BUSY

This indicator appears whenever the receiver squelch is open. If this indicator is not showing, and reception seems to have been lost on the receiver for no apparent reason, check the position of the [SQL] knob and rotate it fully counter-clockwise to restore reception.

23. FAST

This indicator appears when the Main Tuning Dial knob’s tuning rate is set to “fast.”

24. LOCK

This indicator appears when the Main Tuning Dial knob is locked.

25.LSB, USB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY, PKT Displays the currently-selected operating mode.

26.Frequency Display

This is the frequency display. Advice:

When setting the Menu items, the Menu item number, Menu group name, and Menu item name will appear in this area during setup.

When setting the CTCSS frequency for Encoding or Tone Squelch operation, the current tone information will appear in this area during setup.

When controlling the optional rotator, the current rotation speed will appear in this area during setup.

27. Tuning Offset Indicator

This is a tuning scale that, as configured from the factory, provides a visual CW tuning indication of the incoming signal’s offset from your transceiver’s CW carrier frequency, as programmed by the relative clarifier offset, or the peak position of the optional

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µ-TUNE filter.

28. CLAR

This indicator appears whenever the Clarifier function is activated.

29. MR

This indicator appears when the FT-950 is in the Memory Recall mode.

30. MT

This indicator appears when the FT-950 is in the Memory Tune mode to indicate that the memory contents have been temporarily changed.

31. Multi-Display Window

This window displays either the Clarifier offset or Memory Channel Number. Advice:

During FM operation, the Repeater Shift will be indicated in this window. A Negative frequency shift will be indicated by “–” while a Positive frequency shift will be indicated by “+.”

When setting the Menu items, the current setting will appear in this area.

When setting the CTCSS frequency for Encoding or Tone Squelch operation, the current repeater shift direction will appear in this area.

When controlling the optional rotator, the antenna direction will appear in this area during setup.

Rear Panel

1. ANT 1/2 Jacks

Connect your main antenna(s) here, using a type-M (PL-259) plug and coaxial feedline for each. The internal antenna tuner affects only the antenna(s) connected here, and only during transmission.

2. DC IN Jack

This is the DC power supply connection for the transceiver. Use the supplied DC cable to connect directly to a DC power supply, which must be capable of suppling at least 22 A @13.8 VDC.

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3. GND

Use this terminal to connect the transceiver to a good earth ground, for safety and optimum performance. Use a large diameter, short braided cable for making ground connections, and please refer to page ?? for other notes about proper grounding.

4. µ-TUNE Jacks

These jacks are used for signal input/output of the optional RF µTuning Kit.

5. ROT (ROTATOR) Jack

This 5-pin MINI-DIN Jack accepts a cable connected to a YAESU G-800DXA/-1000DXA/-2800DXA Antenna Rotator (listed models are current as of middle 2007). You may control the antenna azimuth rotation (and rotation speed) using the BAND buttons on the front panel.

6. LINEAR Jack

This 10-pin output jack provides band selection data which may be used for control of optional accessories such as the VL-1000 Solid-state Linear Amplifier. Pinout is shown on page ??.

7. TUNER Jack

This 8-pin output jack is used for connection to the FC-40 External Automatic Antenna Tuner. Pinout is shown on page ??.

8. RTTY/PKT Jack

This 6-pin input/output jack accepts AFSK input from a Terminal Node Controller (TNC); it also provides fixed level (100-mV @600 Ohms) receiver audio output, and FSK keying line. Pinout is shown on page ??.

9. PTT Jack

This RCA input jack may be used to provide manual transmitter activation using a footswitch or other switching device. Its function is identical to the [MOX] button on the front panel. The same line is available at the RTTY/PKT jack for TNC control. Open-circuit voltage is +13.5 VDC, and closed-circuit current is 5 mA.

10. REC Jack

This RCA jack provides low-level receiver audio output and transmit audio, for

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recording or external amplification. Peak signal level is 30 mVp-p at 10 kOhms.

11. REM (REMOTE) Jack

By plugging in the optional FH-2 Remote Control Keypad to this gold-plated jack, direct access to the FT-950 CPU is provided for control functions such as contest memory keying, plus frequency and function control.

12. EXT SPKR Jack

This 3.5-mm, 2-pin jack provides variable audio output for an external loudspeaker. The audio output impedance at this jack is 4 - 8 Ohms, and the level varies according to the setting of the front panel’s [AF GAIN] knob. Inserting a plug into this jack disables the internal loudspeaker.

13. KEY Jack

This 1/4-inch 3-contact jack accepts a CW key or keyer paddle. A 2-contact plug cannot be used in this jack. Key-up voltage is +5 V, and key-down current is 1 mA. Plug wiring is shown on page ??, and this jack may be configured for keyer, “Bug”, “straight key”, or computer keying interface operation via Menu item “039 A1A R-TYPE”.

14. µ-TUNE Jack

This 10-pin mini-DIN jack used for control of the optional RF µTuning Kit.

15. DMU Jack

This 8-pin mini-DIN jack accepts a cable connected to an optional DMU-2000 Data Management Unit.

16. CAT Jack

This 9-pin serial DB-9 jack allows external computer control of the FT-950. Connect a serial cable here and to the RS-232C COM port on your personal computer (no external interface is required).

17. PMG-SW

This covered slide switch is used for updating the transceiver’s firmware. The update software and instructions are available for download from the Vertex Standard website (http://www.yaesu.com/).

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Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands Before turning on main power, please verify the following items once more.

Have you made all ground connections securely? See page ?? for details.

Do you have your antenna(s) connected to the rear-panel Antenna jack(s)? See page ?? for details.

Is your microphone (and/or key or paddle) connected? See page ?? for details.

If using a linear amplifier, have all interconnections been successfully completed? See page ?? for details.

Please rotate the [AF GAIN] control to fully counter-clockwise positions, to avoid a loud blast of audio when the transceiver turns on. See page ?? for details.

Here is the typical start-up procedure for normal operation:

1.Turn on the external DC power supply.

2.Press and hold in the front-panel [POWER] switch for two seconds to turn the transceiver on. After about five seconds (ten seconds if the optional µTuning Kit is connected), the transceiver is ready for full operation.

3.The transceiver will start up on 7.000.00 MHz LSB, and normal operation may begin.

Note: To turn power off, press and hold in the front panel [POWER] switch for two seconds.

4.Rotate the [AF GAIN] knob to set a comfortable audio level on incoming signals or noise. Clockwise rotation of the [AF GAIN] knob increases the volume level.

Note: When using headphones, start by rotating the [AF GAIN] knob counter-clockwise, then bring the volume level up after you put the headphones on. This will minimize the chance of damage to your hearing caused by an unexpectedly-high audio level.

5.Press the [(VFO-A)RX] Indicator/Switch to engage the VFO-A; the imbedded LED will glow green.

Advice: If you press the [(VFO-A)RX] Indicator/Switch when the imbedded LED is already glowing green, the LED will now blink “on” and “off”; this indicates that the VFO-A receiver is temporarily muted. Just press the [(VFO-A)RX] Indicator/Switch once more to restore VFO-A receiver operation.

6.Press the [BAND] button corresponding to the Amateur band on which you wish to begin operation.

Advice:

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One-touch selection of each Amateur band between 1.8 and 50 MHz is provided.

The FT-950 utilizes a triple band-stack VFO selection technique, which permits you to store up to three favorite frequencies and modes onto each band’s VFO register. For example, you may store one frequency each on 14 MHz CW, RTTY, and USB, then recall these VFOs by successive, momentary presses of the [14] MHz band button. Each Amateur band button may similarly have up to three frequency/mode settings applied.

If you press the [BAND] button (imbedded LED will glow orange) located in the left of the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob, the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob may be used as a band selection knob.

If you press the [MHz] button (imbedded LED will glow orange) located in the left of the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob, rotation of the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob allows frequency navigation in 1 MHz steps.

7.Press the [ANT 1-2] button to select the appropriate antenna for the band in use. Two TX/RX antennas may be connected, or one RX-only antenna.

Advice: Once you have made your antenna selection, that antenna is “remembered” by the microprocessor in conjunction with the VFO register in use when you chose that particular antenna.

8.Press the appropriate [MODE] button to select the desired operating mode. Pressing the [SSB] button toggles the LSB and USB mode, and also pressing the [SSB] button toggles the AM and FM mode.

Advice:

By convention in the Amateur bands, LSB is used on the 7 MHz and lower bands (with the exception of 60 meters), while USB is utilized on the 14 MHz and higher bands.

When changing modes from SSB to CW, you will observe a frequency shift on the display. This shift represents the BFO offset between the “zero beat” frequency and the audible CW pitch (tone) you can hear (the pitch is programmed via the Menu item “045 A1A PITCH”), even though the actual tone that you hear is not changing. If you do not want this frequency shift to appear when changing modes from (for example) USB to CW, use the Menu item “047 A1A FRQDISP,” described on page ??.

When operating on the FM mode, rotate the [SQL] (Squelch) knob clockwise to the point where the background noise is just silenced. This is the point of maximum sensitivity to weak signals. Excessive advancement of the [SQL]

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knob will degrade the ability of the receiver to detect weak signals.

9.Rotate the Main Tuning Dial knob to tune around the band, and begin normal operation.

Advice:

Clockwise rotation of the Main Tuning Dial knob increases the operating frequency, one “step” of the synthesizer at a time; similarly, counter-clockwise rotation of the Main Tuning Dial knob will decrease the frequency.

Two steps, one “normal” and one “fast”, are available on each operating mode. Pressing the [FAST] button engages the “Fast” tuning selection.

Operating Mode	1 Step	1 Dial Rotation
LSB, USB, CW, RTTY, PKT(LSB)	10Hz [100Hz]	10kHz [100kHz]
AM, FM, PKT(FM)	100Hz [1kHz]	100kHz [1MHz]

[ ] : [FAST] switch set to “ON” It is possible to separate the frequency change over one dial rotation, only while operating on the CW mode, using the Menu items “084 TUN DIALSTP” and “085 TUN CW FINE”. See page ??

If you want to navigate quickly, so as to effect rapid frequency change, there are several techniques available:

•Direct keyboard entry of the frequency (see page ??).

•Use the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to tune in 1 MHz steps (see page ??).

•Use the microphone’s [UP]/[DWN] scanning keys, if your microphone is so equipped (see page ??).

Operation on 60-Meter (5 MHz) Band (U.S. version only)

The FT-950 includes the capability for transmission and reception on the five spot frequencies assigned to the Amateur Service in the United States. To operate on the 5 MHz band:

1.Press the [V/M] button once to enter the “Memory” mode; the “MR” icon will appear in the display and a memory channel number will appear on the Multi-Display Window in the display.

Advice: If you can not enter the “Memory” mode, check see if the green [VFO-B(RX)] Indicator/Switch is illuminated. If so, pressing the [VFO-A(RX)] Indicator/Switch will cause the green [VFO-B(RX)] Indicator/Switch to go out. Now, press the [V/M] button to enter the “Memory” mode.

2.Press the [MCH] button located on the bottom right of the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob. The LED imbedded in the button will glow orange to signify that rotation of the

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[CLAR/VFO-B] knob will allow selection the memory channel.

3.Memory channels “US1” through “US5” are pre-programmed, at the factory, with the permitted frequencies in the 5 MHz band, and the USB mode is automatically selected on these channels.

4.To exit from 60-meter operation and return to the VFO mode, just press the [V/M] button.

Note: The frequencies and operating mode for 5 MHz band operation are fixed, and may not be changed.

CLAR (Clarifier) Operation (VFO-A)

The [TX CLAR], [RX CLAR], [CLEAR] buttons and [CLAR/VFO-B] knob are used to offset either the receive, transmit, or both frequencies from their settings on the VFO-A frequency (the Clarifier does not affect the VFO-B, however). The four small numbers on the Multi-Display Window show the current Clarifier offset. The Clarifier controls on the FT-950 are designed to allow you to preset an offset (up to ±9.990 kHz) without actually retuning, and then to activate it via the Clarifier’s [RX CLAR] and [TX CLAR] buttons. This feature is ideal for following a drifting station, or for setting small frequency offsets sometimes utilized in DX “Split” work.

Here is the technique for utilizing the Clarifier:

1.Press the [RX CLAR] button. In the Multi-Display Window, the “RX” notation will appear, and the programmed offset will be applied to the receive frequency.

2.Rotation of the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob will allow you to modify your initial offset on the fly. Offsets of up to ±9.990 kHz may be set using the Clarifier.

To cancel Clarifier operation, press the [RX CLAR] button. The “RX” notation will disappear from the display.

Advice: Turning the Clarifier off simply cancels the application of the programmed offset from the receive and/or transmit frequencies. To clear out the programmed Clarifier offset altogether, and reset it to “zero,” press the [CLEAR] button. The programmed offset is displayed in the small multi-channel window of the frequency display.

TXCLAR

Without changing the receive frequency, you may alternatively apply the Clarifier offset to the transmit frequency (typically, for “split” DX pile-ups). See page ?? for details.

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The Tuning Offset Indicator provides a graphical representation of the Clarifier offset. On CW, the Tuning Offset Indicator is used for CW Center Tuning, instead of Clarifier Offset, as the transceiver is configured at the factory. If you wish to change this, so that the Clarifier Offset is also displayed on CW, use the following procedure:

1.Press the [MENU] button to enter the Menu mode.

2.Rotate the [SELECT] knob to select Menu item “006 DISP BAR SEL”.

Advice: Press the [SELECT] knob to toggle the Menu item display between “006 DISP” and “BAR SEL”.

3.Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to select “CLAr (Clarifier)” (replacing the default “C-tn (CW TUNING)” selection).

4.Press and hold in the [MENU] button for two seconds to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.

LOCK

You may lock the setting of the Main Tuning Dial knob (for VFO-A frequency tuning) and the [CLA/VFO-B] knob (for VFO-B frequency tuning), to prevent accidental.

To lock out the Main Tuning Dial knob and the [CLA/VFO-B] knob, just press the [LOCK] button that is located to the right of the Main Tuning Dial knob. To unlock the Dial setting, and restore normal tuning, just press the [LOCK] button once more.

DIMMER

The illumination level of the display may be adjusted via the Menu item “005 DISP DIM VFD”, if you desired.

To adjust the illumination level:

1.Press the [MENU] button to enter the Menu mode.

2.Rotate the [SELECT] knob to select Menu item “005 DISP DIM VFD”.

Advice: Press the [SELECT] knob to toggle the Menu item display between “005 DISP” and “DIM VFD”.

3.Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to select desired illumination level.

4.Press and hold in the [MENU] button for two seconds to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.

Convenience Features

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Using the VFO-B

The VFO-B works in a similar manner to the VFO-A, which you should be familiar by now. However, the VFO-B frequency selects by the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob instead of the Main Tuning Dial knob. The VFO-B provides simple split (transmit/receive) frequency operation via the combination of the green [(VFO-A)RX] Indicator/Switch, red [(VFO-A)TX] Indicator/Switch, green [(VFO-B)RX] Indicator/Switch, and red [(VFO-B)TX] Indicator/Switch or [SPLIT] button. See page ?? for details for the Split-Frequency Operation.

The frequency and mode data can be transferred from the VFO-A to the VFO-B by pressing the [A>B] button, but don’t forget that this will overwrite any settings that were in the VFO-B previously. Also, the contents of the two VFOs can be swapped (with no loss of data) by pressing the [A>B] button.

Most interference-fighting circuitry which is described later can also be used on VFO-B.

About the only things you can not do with the VFO-B (that you can with the VFO-A), are store the contents directly into a memory and set the Clarifier. For these functions you need to swap the VFO-B with the VFO-A by pressing the [A<>B] button, then store the contents into the memory or set the Clarifier.

“MY Bands” Operation

When operating on an Amateur Band, it is possible to use the [BAND] buttons to engage the use of the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob for Amateur band selection. The “My Bands” feature allows you to select several Amateur bands, and make only those bands available for selection via the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob.

This feature can be very useful in a contest, where the 10/18/24 MHz band are not used, or if you do not have antennas for some bands.

“My Bands” Setup

1.Press the [MENU] button to engage the Menu mode.

2.Rotate the [SELECT] knob to select Menu item “090 TUN MY BAND.”

Advice: Press the [SELECT] knob to toggle the Menu item display between “090 TUN” and “MY BAND”.

3.Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to choose a band that you wish to skip (omit) from

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the band-selection loop (when using the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob for band selection). The available choices are 1.8/3.5/5/7/10/14/18/21/24/28/50/GE (General Band).

4.Press the [ENT] button to set the omission command to ON. The “E” (Enable) notation at the right of the band notation will change to “d” (disable).

5.Repeat steps 3 and 4 to select/deselect as many bands as you like.

Note: The “ON” command sets the selected band to be skipped, while the “OFF” command sets the selected band to be included in the band-selection list. Return the “d” notation to “E” to restore operation on a previously-deleted band.

6.Press and hold in the [MENU] button for two seconds to lock in the new

configuration and exit to normal operation.

Advice: The “My Band” feature affects both the VFO-A and VFO-B.

“My Band” Operation

1.Press the [BAND] button at the left of the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob; the imbedded LED will glow orange.

2.Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to choose the Amateur band on which you wish to operate. Only those Amateur bands that have not been skipped will appear as you

scroll through the bands.

To disable the “My Band” Operation, press the [BAND] button again; the imbedded orange LED goes out.

Advice: The “My Band” feature affects both the VFO-A and VFO-B.

Band Stack Operation

The FT-950 utilizes a triple band-stack VFO selection technique, that permits you to store up to three favorite frequencies and modes onto each band’s VFO register. For example, you may store one frequency each on 14 MHz CW, RTTY, and USB, then recall these VFOs by successive, momentary presses of the [14] MHz band button. Each Amateur band key may similarly have up to three frequency/mode settings applied. Both the VFO-A and VFO-B systems have their own, independent, band stacks.

A typical setup, for the 14 MHz band, might be arranged like this:

1.Program 14.025 MHz CW Mode, then press the [14] MHz band button;

2.Program 14.080 MHz RTTY Mode, then press the [14] MHz band button;

3.Program 14.195 MHz, SSB Mode, then press the [14] MHz band button.

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With this configuration, successive momentary presses of the [14] MHz band button will allow you to toggle sequentially through these three VFOs.

C.S (Custom Switch)

An often-used Menu mode selection may be brought out to the front panel’s [C.S] button.

C.S Setup

1.Press the [MENU] button to engage the Menu mode; the Menu list will appear on the display.

2.Rotate the [SELECT] knob to select the Menu item you want to be able to access via the [C.S] button.

Advice: Press the [SELECT] knob to toggle the Menu item display between “Menu item number and group” and “Menu Function”.

3.Press and hold in the [C.S] button for two seconds to lock in your selection.

4.Press and hold in the [MENU] button for two seconds to save the new configuration and exit to normal operation.

Menu Selection Recall via [C.S] button Press the [C.S] button.

The programmed Menu item will appear on the display. You may now rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to change the setting of this menu item. Press and hold the [MENU] button for two seconds, when you are done, to save the new configuration and exit to normal operation.

Rotator Control Functions

When using a YAESU model G-800DXA, G-1000DXA, or G-2800DXA rotator (not supplied), it is possible to control it from the front panel of the FT-950.

1.Press and hold in the [ENT] button (one of the [BAND] Switch) for two seconds. The frequency display area will change over to the “Rotator Control” configuration.

2.Press either the [3.5(2)] button or the [7(3)] button to rotate the antenna. Pressing the [3.5(2)] button will cause rotation to the left (counter-clockwise), while pressing the [7(3)] button will cause rotation to the right (clockwise).

3.Press the [14(5)] button or the [18(6)] button to control the speed of rotation. Pressing the [14(5)] button will cause slower rotation, while pressing the [18(6)] button will speed up rotation. Usually, you will be using the “100%” setting.

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When you are through exercising rotator control, press the [ENT] button momentarily. The frequency display will return to the main display field.

Important Note:

Set to match the starting point of your rotator control indicator needle via the Menu item “011 DISP RTR STU”. The default setting is zero (north). If your controller starting point is south, the Menu item “011 DISP RTR STU” must be set to “180”. If not set properly the FT-950 display will not show the correct direction.

When the rotator control indicator needle does not indicate the precise antenna direction, adjusts the indicator needle precisely to the antenna direction via the Menu item “012 DISP RTR ADJ”.

More Frequency Navigation Techniques Keyboard Frequency Entry

You may enter operating frequencies directly into the current VFO, using the front panel [BAND] buttons.

Example: Enter 14.250.00 MHz

1.Press the [ENT] button to engage the direct frequency entry process. Now, beginning with the “10 MHz” digit of the frequency (the leftmost digit), we will enter the required digits of the frequency.

2.Press, in order, the digits of the operating frequency, using the [BAND] buttons (which have the frequency-entry digit or decimal point on the right side of the slash bar). In this example, enter

[1.8/1] [10/4] [GEN/.] [3.5/2] [14/5] [50/0] [50/0] [50/0] [50/0] The decimal point after the “MHz” portion of the frequency must be entered, but no decimal point is required after the “kHz” portion.

3.Press the [ENT] button once more. A short “beep” will confirm that the frequency entry was successful, and the new operating frequency will appear on the display.

Advice: If you attempt to enter a frequency outside the operating range of 30 kHz ~ 56 MHz, the microprocessor will ignore the attempt, and you will be returned to your previous operating frequency. If this happens, please try again, taking care not to repeat the error in the frequency entry process.

Using the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob

You may change the current VFO frequency in 1 MHz steps. If you press the [BAND] button located in the bottom left of the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob, the 1 MHz steps will be

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