Yaesu FT-1900R User Manual
FM TRANSCEIVER
FT-1900R
OPERATING MANUAL
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.
YAESU UK LTD.
Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Close
Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.
VERTEX STANDARD HK LTD.
Unit 5, 20/F., Seaview Centre, 139-141 Hoi Bun Road,
Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
VERTEX STANDARD (AUSTRALIA) PTY., LTD.
Normanby Business Park, Unit 14/45 Normanby Road
Notting Hill 3168, Victoria, Australia
Contents
FT-1900R Quick Reference Guide
Introduction ...................................................... 1
Specifications .................................................... 2
Accessories & Options ...................................... 3
Supplied Accessories ..................................... 3
Optional Accessories ...................................... 3
Installation ........................................................ 4
Preliminary Inspection ................................... 4
Installation Tips .............................................. 4
Safety Information .......................................... 5
Antenna Considerations ................................. 6
Mobile Installation ......................................... 7
Mobile Power Connections ........................ 8
Mobile Speakers ......................................... 8
Base Station Installation ................................. 9
AC Power Supplies .................................... 9
Front Panel Controls & Switches .................. 10
Microphone Switches ..................................... 12
Rear Panel Connectors ................................... 13
Basic Operation .............................................. 14
Turning the Transceiver On and Off ............ 14
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level ............. 14
Adjusting the Squelch Setting ...................... 14
Frequency Navigation .................................. 15
1) Tuning Dial .......................................... 15
2) Direct Keypad Frequency Entry .......... 15
3) Scanning .............................................. 15
Transmission ................................................ 16
Changing the Transmitter Power Level ... 16
Advanced Operation ...................................... 17
Weather Broadcast Reception ...................... 17
Lock Feature ................................................. 18
Keyboard Beeper .......................................... 18
Channel Step Selection ................................ 19
Display Brightness ....................................... 19
RF Squelch ................................................... 20
Repeater Operation ....................................... 21
Standard Repeater Shift ........................... 21
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS) ............. 22
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Operation ..................... 23
CTCSS Operation .................................... 23
DCS Operation ......................................... 25
Tone Search Scanning .............................. 26
EPCS Operation ....................................... 27
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Bell Paging .............. 29
Split Tone Operation ................................ 30
DTMF Operation .......................................... 32
Manual DTMF Tone Generation ............. 32
DTMF Autodialer .................................... 32
Memory Operation ......................................... 34
Memory Storage ........................................... 34
Separate Transmit Frequency Memory
(“Odd Splits”) ...................................... 35
Memory Recall ............................................. 36
Labeling Memories ...................................... 37
Memory Tuning ............................................ 38
Masking Memories ....................................... 38
Memory Bank Operation .............................. 39
Assigning Memories to a Memory Bank . 39
Memory Bank Recall ............................... 39
Removing Memories
from a Memory Bank ........................... 40
Changing a Memory Bank’s Name .......... 40
HOME Channel Memory ............................. 41
Memory Only Mode ..................................... 42
Scanning .......................................................... 44
Basic Scanner Operation .............................. 44
Scan-Resume Option .................................... 45
Memory Skip Scanning ................................ 46
Preferential Memory Scan ............................ 47
Memory Bank Link Scan ............................. 48
Programmable Band-Scan Limits ................. 49
Priority Channel Scanning (Dual Watch) ..... 50
Priority Revert Mode ............................... 50
Weather Alert Scan ...................................... 51
Band Edge Beeper ........................................ 51
Smart Search Operation ................................ 52
Internet Connection Feature ......................... 54
SRG Mode .................................................... 54
FRG Mode .................................................... 54
ARTS™ ........................................................... 57
Basic ARTS™ Setup and Operation ............ 57
ARTS™ Polling Time Options .................... 58
ARTS™ Alert Beep Options ........................ 58
CW Identifier Setup ..................................... 59
CW Training Feature ..................................... 60
Packet Operation ............................................ 61
Miscellaneous Settings .................................... 62
Password ...................................................... 62
Time-Out Timer ........................................... 63
Automatic Power-Off ................................... 63
Busy Channel Lock-Out ............................... 64
Programming the Key Assignments ............. 65
FM Bandwidth & TX Deviation Level ........ 66
MIC Gain Setting ......................................... 66
DCS Code Inversion .................................... 67
Reset Procedure .............................................. 68
Microprocessor Resetting ............................. 68
Set Mode Resetting ...................................... 68
Cloning ............................................................ 69
“Set” (Menu) Mode ........................................ 70
FT-1900R QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
TRANSMISSION SWITCH
Speak into the microphone
in a normal voice level
while pressing this switch.
VOL KNOB
Adjusts the audio
volume level.
POWER SWITCH
Press and hold for
one second.
LOCK SWITCH
Press and hold for one second to lock all
key functions except the VOL, SQL knobs
and PTT switch.
FREQUENCY DIAL KNOB
Selects the operating Frequency.
MICROPHONE
DTMF MICROPHONE
MH-48
SQL KNOB
Adjust to the point where the
background noise is muted.
FT-1900R QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
KEY OVERVIEW
KEY PRESS KEY BRIEFLY
Activates the Internet Connec-
tion Feature.
Allows tuning the VFO fre-
quency in 1-MHz steps, or tun-
ing channels in 10 channel
steps.
Reverses transmit and receive
frequencies in repeater opera-
tion.
Selects the transmitter power
output level.
Switches the frequency control
between the VFO, Memory Sys-
tem, and the Home channel.
PRESS AND HOLD KEY
Locks out the switches and
knobs (except the VOL, SQL
knobs and PTT switch).
Enters the Set (“Menu”) mode.
Activates the Priority Channel
Scanning (Dual Watch fea-
ture).
Toggles the display indication
between “frequency” and the
channel’s “Alpha/Numeric
Tag”.
Transfers the VFO contents
into a Memory register.
1FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
The Yaesu FT-1900R is a deluxe, rugged FM mobile transceiver providing high power
output and outstanding receiver performance for the 144 MHz Amateur band. Included in
the FT-1900R’s feature complement are:
55 Watts of power output, with selection of four power levels for every operating situ-
ation.
Expanded receiver coverage: 136-174 MHz.
Keyboard entry of operating frequencies from the microphone.
Excellent protection from receiver intermodulation distortion, thanks to Yaesu’s renowned
Advanced Track Tuning front end.
221 memories (200 “basic” memory channels, 10 sets of band-edge memory channels,
and one “Home” channel) which can store repeater shifts, odd repeater shifts, CTCSS/
DCS tones, and 6-character Alpha-Numeric labels for easy channel recognition.
10 NOAA Weather Broadcast Channels, with Weather Alert and a Volume Control for
the Weather Alert tone.
Built-in CTCSS and DCS Encoder/Decoder circuits.
The Smart SearchTM feature, which automatically sweeps a band and loads active fre-
quencies into dedicated memory banks, is ideal for identifying active repeaters when
visiting a city for the first time.
Extensive Menu system, which allows customization of a number of transceiver perfor-
mance characteristics.
The Yaesu-exclusive multi-function LCD display.
Additional features include a transmit Time-Out-Timer (TOT), Automatic Power-Off (APO),
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS), plus provision for reduction of the Tx deviation in areas
of high channel congestion. And an RF Squelch circuit allows the owner to set the squelch
to open at a programmable setting of the S-Meter, thus reducing guesswork in setting the
squelch threshold.
Congratulations on your purchase of the FT-1900R! Whether this is your first rig, or if
Yaesu equipment is already the backbone of your station, the Vertex Standard organization
is committed to ensuring your enjoyment of this high-performance transceiver, which should
provide you with many years of satisfying operation. Our dealer network and technical
support personnel stand behind every product we sell, and we invite you to contact us
should you require technical advice or assistance.
We recommend that you read this manual in its entirety prior to installing the FT-1900R,
so that you fully understand the capabilities of your new transceiver.
INTRODUCTION
2 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
General
Frequency Range: Tx 144 - 146 MHz or 144 - 148 MHz
Rx 144 - 146 MHz or 136 - 174 MHz
Channel Step: 5/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100 kHz
Standard Repeater Shift: ±600 kHz
Frequency Stability: Better than ±10 ppm
[–4 °F to +140 °F (–20 °C to +60 °C)]
Modes of Emission: F2D/F3E
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ohms, unbalanced
Supply voltage: 13.8 V DC ±15%, negative ground
Current Consumption (typical): Rx: less than 0.7 A, less than 0.3 A (squelched)
Tx: 11 A (55 W) /7 A (25 W) /5 A (10 W) /4 A (5 W)
Operating Temperature Range: –4° F to +140° F (–20° C to +60° C)
Case Size (WxHxD): 5.5” x 1.6” x 5.7” (140 x 40 x 146 mm) (w/o knobs)
Weight (Approx.): 2.6 lb (1.2 kg)
Transmitter
Output Power: 55 W/25 W/10 W/5 W
Modulation Type: Variable Reactance
Maximum Deviation: ±5 kHz (Wide)
±2.5 kHz (Narrow)
Spurious Radiation: Better than –60 dB
Microphone Impedance: 2 k-Ohms
Receiver
Circuit Type: Double Conversion Superheterodyne
Ifs: 21.7 MHz & 450 kHz
Sensitivity (for 12dB SINAD): Better than 0.2 µV
Selectivity (–6/–60dB): 12 kHz/28 kHz (Wide)
9 kHz/22 kHz (Narrow)
IF Rejection: Better than 70 dB
Image Rejection: Better than 70 dB
Maximum AF Output: 3 W into 4 Ohms @10 % THD
Specifications subject to change without notice or obligation. Specifications guaranteed
only within Amateur band.
Frequency ranges will vary according to transceiver version; check with your dealer.
SPECIFICATIONS
3FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES
Microphone MH-48A6J ...................................................................................................... 1
Mobile Mounting Bracket MMB-36 .................................................................................. 1
DC Power Cord w/Fuse (T9021715) ................................................................................. 1
Spare Fuse 15 A (Q0000081) ............................................................................................. 2
Operating Manual ............................................................................................................... 1
Warranty Card .................................................................................................................... 1
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
High-Power External Speaker MLS-100
AC Power Supply FP-1023 (25 A: USA only)
AC Power Supply FP-1030A (25 A)
Availability of accessories may vary. Some accessories are supplied as standard per local
requirements, while others may be unavailable in some regions. This product is designed to
perform optimally when used with genuine Vertex Standard accessories. Vertex Standard
shall not be liable for any damage to this product and/or accidents such as fire, leakage or
explosion of a battery pack, etc., caused by the malfunction of non- Vertex Standard acces-
sories. Consult your Vertex Standard dealer for details regarding these and any newly-
available options. Connection of any non-Vertex Standard-approved accessory, should it
cause damage, may void the Limited Warranty on this apparatus.
ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS
4 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
This chapter describes the installation procedure for integrating the FT-1900R into a typi-
cal amateur radio station. It is presumed that you possess technical knowledge and concep-
tual understanding consistent with your status as a licensed radio amateur. Please take some
extra time to make certain that the important safety and technical requirements detailed in
this chapter are followed closely.
PRELIMINARY INSPECTION
Inspect the transceiver visually immediately upon opening the packing carton. Confirm
that all controls and switches work freely, and inspect the cabinet for any damage. Gently
shake the transceiver to verify that no internal components have been shaken loose due to
rough handling during shipping.
If any evidence of damage is discovered, document it thoroughly and contact the shipping
company (or your local dealer, if the unit was purchased over-the-counter) so as to get
instructions regarding the prompt resolution of the damage situation. Be certain to save the
shipping carton, especially if there are any punctures or other evidence of damage incurred
during shipping; if it is necessary to return the unit for service or replacement, use the
original packing materials but put the entire package inside another packing carton, so as to
preserve the evidence of shipping damage for insurance purposes.
INSTALLATION TIPS
To ensure long life of the components, be certain to provide adequate ventilation around the
cabinet of the FT-1900R.
Do not install the transceiver on top of another heat-generating device (such as a power
supply or amplifier), and do not place equipment, books, or papers on top of the FT-1900R.
Avoid heating vents and window locations that could expose the transceiver to excessive
direct sunlight, especially in hot climates. The FT-1900R should not be used in an environ-
ment where the ambient temperature exceeds +140 °F (+60 °C).
INSTALLATION
5FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
SAFETY INFORMATION
The FT-1900R is an electrical apparatus, as well as a generator of RF (Radio Frequency)
energy, 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 allow unsupervised children to play in the vicinity of your transceiver or
antenna installation.
Be certain to wrap any wire or cable splices thoroughly with insulating electrical
tape, to prevent short circuits.
Do not route cables or wires through door jambs or other locations where, through
wear and tear, they may become frayed and shorted to ground or to each other.
Do not stand in front of a directional antenna while you are transmitting into that
antenna. Do not install a directional antenna in any location where humans or pets
may be walking in the main directional lobe of the antenna’s radiation pattern.
In mobile installations, it is preferable to mount your antenna on top of the roof of
the vehicle, if feasible, so as to utilize the car body as a counterpoise for the antenna
and raise the radiation pattern as far away from passengers as possible.
During vehicular operation when stopped (in a parking lot, for example), make it a
practice to switch to Low power if there are people walking nearby.
Never wear dual-earmuff headphones while driving a vehicle.
Do not attempt to drive your vehicle while making a telephone call on an autopatch
using the DTMF microphone. Pull over to the side of the road, whether dialing
manually or using the auto-dial feature.
6 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
ANTENNA CONSIDERATION
The FT-1900R is designed for use with antennas presenting an impedance of near 50
Ohms at all operating frequencies. The antenna (or a 50 Ohm dummy load) should be
connected whenever the transceiver is turned on, to avoid damage that could otherwise
result if transmission occurs accidentally without an antenna.
Ensure that your antenna is designed to handle 50 Watts of transmitter power. Some mag-
netic-mount mobile antennas, designed for use with hand-held transceivers, may not be
capable of withstanding this power level. Consult the antenna manufacturer’s specification
sheet for details.
Most all FM work is performed using vertical polarization. When installing a directional
antenna such as a Yagi or Cubical Quad, be certain to orient it so as to produce vertical
polarization, unless you are engaged in a special operating situation where horizontal po-
larization is used. In the case of a Yagi antenna, orient the elements vertically for vertical
polarization; for a Cubical Quad, the feedpoint should be at the center of one of the vertical
sides of the driven element (or at a side corner, in the case of a diamond-shaped “Delta
Loop”).
Excellent reference texts and computer software are available for the design and optimiza-
tion of VHF antennas. Your dealer should be able to assist you with all aspects of your
antenna installation requirements.
Use high-quality 50 Ohm coaxial cable for the lead-in to your FT-1900R transceiver. All
efforts at providing an efficient antenna system will be wasted if poor quality, lossy coaxial
cable is used. Losses in coaxial lines increase as the frequency increases, so an 8-meter-
long (25’ coaxial line with 1/2 dB of loss at 29 MHz may have a loss of 1.8 dB or more at
146 MHz; choose your coaxial cable carefully based on the installation location (mobile vs.
base) and the overall length of the cable required (for very short runs of cable in a mobile
installation, the smaller, more flexible cable types may be acceptable).
For reference, the chart at the right shows ap-
proximate loss figures for typically-available
coaxial cables frequently used in VHF instal-
lations.
In outdoor installations, be certain to weather-
proof all connectors thoroughly, as water en-
tering a coaxial cable will cause losses to esca-
late rapidly, thus diminishing your communi-
cations effectiveness. The use of the shortest
possible length of the highest quality coaxial
cable that fits within your budget will ensure the best performance from your FT-1900R.
INSTALLATION
CABLE TYPE
RG-58A
RG-58 Foam
RG-213
RG-8 Foam
Belden 9913
Times Microwave LMR-400
7/8” “Hardline”
LOSS: 144 MHZ
6.5
4.7
3.0
2.0
1.5
1.5
0.7
Loss in dB per 30 m (100 feet) for
Selected 50-Ohm Coaxial Cables
(Assumes 50-ohm Input/Output Terminations)
Loss figures are approximate; consult cable manufac-
turers’ catalogs for complete specifications.
7FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
MOBILE INSTALLATION
The FT-1900R must only be installed in vehicles having a 13.8 Volt negative ground elec-
trical system. Mount the transceiver where the display, controls, and microphone are easily
accessible, using the supplied MMB-36 mounting bracket.
The transceiver may be installed in almost any location, but should not be positioned near
a heating vent nor anywhere where it might interfere with driving (either visually or me-
chanically). Make sure to provide plenty of space on all sides of the transceiver so that air
can flow freely around the radio’s case. Refer to the diagrams showing proper installation
procedures.
INSTALLATION
MMB-36 Installation
8 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
Cabin Engine Room
FT-1900R
Battery
RED: Positive (+)
BLACK: Negative (–)
Mobile Power Connections
To minimize voltage drop and avoid blowing the vehicle’s fuses, connect the supplied DC
power cable directly to the battery terminals. Do not attempt to defeat or bypass the DC
cable’s fuse - it is there to protect you, your transceiver, and your vehicle’s electrical system.
Warning!
Never apply AC power to the power cable of the FT-1900R, nor DC voltage greater
than 15.8 Volts. When replacing the fuse, only use a 15-A fuse. Failure to observe
these safety precautions will void the Limited Warranty on this product.
Before connecting the transceiver, check the voltage at the battery terminals while rev-
ving the engine. If the voltage exceeds 15 Volts, adjust the vehicle’s voltage regulator
before proceeding with installation.
Connect the RED power cable lead to the POSITIVE (+) battery terminal, and the BLACK
power cable lead to the NEGATIVE (–) terminal. If you need to extend the power cable,
use #12 AWG or larger insulated, stranded copper wire. Solder the splice connections
carefully, and wrap the connections thoroughly with insulating electrical tape.
Before connecting the cable to the transceiver, verify the voltage and polarity of the
voltage at the transceiver end of the DC cable using a DC voltmeter. Now connect the
transceiver to the DC cable.
INSTALLATION
Mobile Speakers
The optional MLS-100 External Speaker includes its own swivel-type mounting bracket,
and is available from your Yaesu dealer.
Other external speakers may be used with the FT-1900R, if they present the specified 4-Ohm
impedance and are capable of handling the 3 Watts of audio output supplied by the FT-1900R.
MOBILE INSTALLATION
WARNING!
NEVER remove the FUSE
holders from the DC cable.
Fuse Holder
Fuse 15 A
9FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
BASE STATION INSTALLATION
The FT-1900R is ideal for base station use as well as in mobile installations. The FT-
1900R is specifically designed to integrate into your station easily, using the information
to follow as a reference.
AC Power Supplies
Operation of the FT-1900R from an AC line requires a power source capable of providing
at least 11 Amps continuously at 13.8 Volts DC. The FP-1023 and FP-1030A AC Power
Supplies are available from your Yaesu dealer to satisfy these requirements. Other well-
regulated power supplies may be used, as well, if they meet the above voltage and current
specifications.
Use the DC power cable supplied with your transceiver for making power connections to
the power supply. Connect the RED power cable lead to the POSITIVE (+) power supply
terminal, and connect the BLACK power cable lead to the NEGATIVE (–) power supply
terminal.
10 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
VOL Knob
This control adjusts the audio volume level. Clockwise rotation increases the volume
level.
SQL Knob
This control is used to silence background noise on the receiver. It should be advanced
clockwise just to the point where the noise is silenced (and the “ ” indicator on
the display turns off), so as to provide the best sensitivity to weak signals.
Microphone Jack
Connect the supplied MH-48A6J Hand Microphone to this jack.
PWR Key
Press and hold this key for one second to toggle the transceiver’s
power on and off.
[ (L)]
Key
This key allows operation in conjunction with the Internet Connection feature.
Press and hold in this key for one second to toggle the Lockout Feature “on” or “off”.
[
MHz(SET)] Key
This key allows tuning in 1-MHz steps (the MHz digits will blink on the display). If
receiving on a memory, pressing this key the first time activates the Memory Tuning
mode, and pressing it again enables 1-MHz steps.
Press and hold in this key for one second to activate the “Set” (Menu) mode.
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES
MIC SW2
MIC SW1
GND +8V
MIC INPUT
PTT/CLONE
11FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES
[
REV(DW)] Key
During split-frequency operation, such as through a repeater, this key reverses the trans-
mit and receive frequencies.
Press and hold in this key for one second to activate the Dual Watch feature, described
in the Operation chapter (“PRI” will be displayed on the LCD, indicating “Priority
Channel” monitoring).
[
LOW(A/N)] Key
Press this key momentarily to select the transmitter power output level.
The available power levels are:
LOW1 (5 W) LOW2 (10 W) LOW3 (25 W) HIGH (50 W)
To toggle the display between indication of the frequency and the channel’s Alpha/
Numeric label, press and hold in this key for one second while receiving on that memory
channel.
[
D/MR(MW)] Key
Press this key momentarily to switch the frequency control among the VFO, Memory
System, and Home channel.
Press and hold in this key for one second to activate the Memory Storage mode.
DIAL Knob
This 24-position detented rotary switch is used for tuning, memory selection and most
function settings. The microphone [UP]/[DWN] buttons duplicate the functions of this
knob.
Display
The main digits on the display may show the operating frequency, memory name, or
any of many parameters during Menu setup.
CTCSS
(Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System)
DCS (Digital Code Squelch)
DTMF Memory Mode
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Bell Paging
Lock Feature Active
Programmable Memory Scan
Priority Channel
Memory Mode
Memory Channel Number
VFO Mode
Home Channel
Frequency/Message Area
SKIP/Preferential Scan ChannelRepeater Shift Direction
Low TX Power Selected
TX Indicator
BUSY Indicator
Narrow Deviation
S- and TX Power Meter
12 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
PTT Switch
Press this switch to transmit, and release it
to receive.
Keypad
These 16 keys generate DTMF tones dur-
ing transmission.
In the receive mode, these 16 keys can be
used for direct frequency entry and/or di-
rect numeric recall of the Memory channels.
The [A], [B], [C], and [D] keys, on receive,
replicate the functions of the front panel keys
([
MHz(SET)], [REV(DW)], [LOW(A/N)],
and [D/MR(MW
)])
. See the previous discus-
sion.
[P1]/[P2]/[P3]/[P4]
Buttons
These four keys are user programmable, al-
lowing quick access to features used often.
The default functions are described below.
[P1]
button (SQL OFF
)
Press this button to disable the noise and tone squelch systems.
[P2]
button (S SRCH
)
Press this button to activate the Smart Search feature.
[P3]
button (C SRCH
)
Press this button to activate the Tone Search feature.
[P4]
button (WX CH/T.CALL
)
In the USA version, pressing this button recalls the “Weather” broadcast channel bank.
In the EXP version, pressing this button activates T.CALL (1750 Hz) for repeater access.
You can reprogram the [P1], [P2], [P3], and [P4] buttons for other functions, if de-
sired. See page 65 for details.
LAMP Switch
This switch illuminates the Microphone’s keypad.
LOCK Switch
This switch locks out the Microphone’s buttons (except for the keypad and PTT switch).
[UP]/[
DWN] Button
Press (or hold in) either of these buttons to tune (or scan up or down) the operating
frequency or through the memory channels. In many ways, these buttons emulate the
function of the (rotary) DIAL knob.
MICROPHONE SWITCHES
DTMF MICROPHONE
MH-48
13FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
13.8V DC Cable Pigtail
This is the power supply connection for the transceiver. Use the supplied DC cable to
connect this pigtail to the car battery or other DC power supply capable of at least 11
Amperes (continuous duty). Make certain that the red lead connects to the positive side
of the supply. The fuse is 15-A.
ANT Coaxial Socket
Connect a 144-MHz antenna to this type-M (SO-239) socket using 50-Ohm coaxial
cable and a type-M (PL-259) plug. Make sure the antenna is designed specifically for
use on the operating frequency.
EXT SP Jack
This 2-contact 3.5-mm mini phone jack provides receiver audio output for an optional
external speaker. The audio impedance is 4 Ohms, and the level varies according to the
setting of the front panel’s VOL control. Inserting a plug into this jack disables audio
from the transceiver’s internal speaker.
REAR PANEL CONNECTORS
14 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the many features
of the FT-1900R. I know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I encourage you to
read the “Basic Operation” section of this manual as thoroughly as possible, so you’ll
get the most out of this fantastic new transceiver. Now. . .let’s get operating!
TURNING THE TRANSCEIVER ON AND OFF
1. To turn the transceiver on, press and hold in the PWR
key for one second.
When you turn on the FT-1900R, the current DC supply
voltage is indicated on the LCD for 2 seconds. After this
interval, the display will switch its normal indication of
the operating frequency.
2. To turn the transceiver off, again press and hold in the
PWR key for one second.
You can change the Opening Message (DC supply voltage indication) to any de-
sired message (up to 6 characters) via Set Mode Item “31 OPN.MSG;” see page
76 for details.
ADJUSTING THE AUDIO VOLUME LEVEL
Rotate the VOL control to adjust the receiver volume. Clock-
wise rotation increases the audio output level.
ADJUSTING THE SQUELCH SETTING
Rotate the SQL control just to the point where the noise is
silenced and the “ ” indicator on the display turns off. If
the SQL control is set further clockwise, sensitivity to weak
signals is reduced.
A special “RF Squelch” feature is provided on this radio.
This feature allows you to set the squelch so that only sig-
nals exceeding a certain S-meter level will open the squelch.
See page 20 for details
BASIC OPERATION
15FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
BASIC OPERATION
FREQUENCY NAVIGATION
1) Tuning Dial
Rotating the DIAL knob allows tuning in the pre-programmed steps. Clockwise rotation of the
DIAL knob causes the FT-1900R to be tuned toward a higher frequency, while counter-clock-
wise rotation will lower the operating frequency.
Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL knob, to change the frequency
steps to 1 MHz per step. This feature is extremely useful for making rapid frequency excursions
over the wide tuning range of the FT-1900R. Instead of pressing the [MHz(SET)] button, you
may also press the [A] key on the Microphone’s keypad to engage tuning in 1 MHz steps.
2) Direct Keypad Frequency Entry
The keypad of the MH-48A6J DTMF Microphone may be used for direct entry of the oper-
ating frequency.
To enter a frequency from the MH-48A6J keypad, just press the numbered digits in the proper
sequence. There is no “decimal point” key on the MH-48A6J keypad. However, there is a
short-cut for frequencies ending in zero: press the [#] key after the last non-zero digit.
Examples: To enter 146.520 MHz, press [1] [4] [6] [5] [2] [0
]
To enter 146.000 MHz, press [1] [4] [6] [#
]
If you cannot get the radio to accept the frequency entry, it is possible that the
channel steps are set to an incompatible value (e.g. if you have 25 kHz steps set,
you cannot set a frequency of 146.520 MHz). See page 19 to learn how to change the
channel step size.
3) Scanning
From the VFO mode, press the microphone’s [UP]/[DWN] keys momentarily to initiate
scanning toward a higher- or lower frequency, respectively. The FT-1900R will stop when
it receives a signal strong enough to break through the squelch threshold. The FT-1900R
will then hold on that frequency according to the setting of the “Resume” mode (Menu “41
SCAN)”; see page 45).
If you wish to reverse the direction of the scan (i.e. toward a lower frequency, instead of a
higher frequency), just rotate the DIAL knob one click in the counter-clockwise direction
while the FT-1900R is scanning. The scanning direction will be reversed. To revert to
scanning toward a higher frequency once more, rotate the DIAL knob one click clockwise.
Press the [UP]/[DWN] keys again to cancel scanning. You may also press the PTT button
momentarily; scanning will stop, but you will not transmit until you release the PTT button,
and press it again.
If you have enabled the “Severe Weather Alert” feature, you will occasionally no-
tice “WX” channels interspersed with the regular channels you are scanning. This
is normal, because your radio is constantly monitoring for weather alerts. See page 17.
16 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
TRANSMISSION
To transmit, simply close the PTT (Push To Talk) switch on the microphone when the
frequency is clear. Hold the microphone approximately 1” (25 mm) from your mouth, and
speak into the microphone in a normal voice level. When your transmission is complete,
release the PTT switch; the transceiver will revert to the receive mode.
During transmission, the “ ” indicator will appear at the upper left corner on the display.
Changing the Transmitter Power Level
You can select from among a total of four transmit power levels on your FT-1900R.
To change the power level, press the [LOW(A/N)] key (or the microphone’s [C] key to
select one of four power settings. These power levels will be stored, in memory registers, at
the time of memory storage (see page 34 for details on Memory operation).
During transmission, the Bar Graph will deflect in the display, according to the power
output selected.
BASIC OPERATION
Low 1 (5 watts)
Low 2 (10 watts)
Low 3 (25 watts)
HIGH (55 watts)
17FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
WEATHER BROADCAST RECEPTION (USA VERSION
)
The FT-1900R includes a unique feature which allows reception of weather broadcasts in
the 160-MHz frequency range. Ten standard Weather Broadcast channels are pre-loaded
into a special memory bank.
To listen to a Weather Broadcast Channel:
1. Press the Microphone’s [P4] button to recall the Weather
Broadcast channels.
2. Turn the DIAL knob to select the desired Weather Broadcast channel.
3. If you wish to check the other channels for activity
by scanning, just press the Microphone’s PTT
switch.
4. To exit to normal operation, press the [P4] button
again. Operation will return to the VFO or Memory
channel you were operating on before you began Weather Broadcast operation.
The [P4] key, one of the programmable keys, is assigned (default setting) as the
“WX Broadcast” one-touch access key. Please note that if you change/assign
another function to the [P4] key, one-touch access to the WX channel will be unavail-
able.
Severe Weather Alert Feature
In the event of extreme weather disturbances, such as storms and hurricanes, NOAA (the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) sends a weather alert accompanied by
a 1050 Hz tone and subsequent weather report on one of the NOAA weather channels. You
may enable this feature via Menu Item “57 WX ALT,” if desired. See page 49 for details.
When scanning the band or the “regular” memories, with the Severe Weather Alert feature
engaged, you will notice that the FT-1900R will break over to the Weather Channel bank
every five seconds, performing a quick scan of those channels in search for the 1050 Hz
alert tone. If the alert tone is received, operation will lock on the weather broadcast station
issuing the alert; otherwise, the radio will revert to the VFO or memory scan session in
progress without interruption.
When the alert tone is received, press the PTT button momentarily to disable the alarm, and
the Severe Weather message will now be audible from the speaker.
ADVANCED OPERATION
CH
01
02
03
04
05
CH
06
07
08
09
10
FREQUENCY
162.550 MHz
162.400 MHz
162.475 MHz
162.425 MHz
162.450 MHz
FREQUENCY
162.500 MHz
162.525 MHz
161.650 MHz
161.775 MHz
163.275 MHz
18 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
LOCK FEATURE
To activate the locking feature, press and hold in the
[ (L)]
key for one second. The “ ” icon will appear on the LCD.
To cancel locking, press and hold in the
[ (L)]
key again for
one second.
In order to prevent accidental frequency change or inadvertent transmission, various as-
pects of the FT-1900R’s keys and knob may be locked out.
To lock out some or all of the keys, use the “Set” (Menu) mode, described below:
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “26 LOCK.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select the desired lockout combination.
KEY: Just the front panel keys are locked out.
DIAL: Just the front panel DIAL knob is locked out.
K+D: Both the keys and DIAL knob are locked out.
PTT: The PTT switch is locked (TX not possible).
K+P: Both keys and PTT switch are locked out.
D+P: Both DIAL knob and PTT switch are locked out.
ALL: All of the above are locked out.
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
KEYBOARD BEEPER
A key/button beeper provides useful audible feedback whenever a key/button is pressed. If
you want to turn the beeper off (or back on again):
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “6 BEEP.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
set the display to “OFF.”
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to
save your new setting and exit to normal operation.
4. To turn the beep back on again, select “KEY” or “KY+SCN (factory default)” in step 4
above.
KEY: The beeper sounds when you press the keypad.
KY+SCN: The beeper sounds when you press the keypad, or when the scanner stops.
ADVANCED OPERATION
19FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
CHANNEL STEP SELECTION
Tuning steps are factory preset to default increments which are appropriate for the country
to which this radio is exported. You may have a reason to use a different step size, however,
and here is the procedure for changing the channel steps:
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “50 STEP.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select the desired step size (5/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100
kHz).
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
DISPLAY BRIGHTNESS
The FT-1900R display illumination has been specially engineered to provide high visibil-
ity with minimal disruption of your “night vision” while you are driving. The brightness of
the display is manually adjustable, using the following procedure:
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “16 DIMMER.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select a comfortable brightness level (LVL 0 - LVL10).
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
ADVANCED OPERATION
20 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
RF SQUELCH
A special RF Squelch feature is provided on this radio. This feature allows you to set the
squelch so that only signals exceeding a certain S-meter level will open the squelch.
To set up the RF squelch circuit for operation, use the following procedure:
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “42 RF SQL.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select the desired signal strength level for the squelch thresh-
old (S1 - S9 or OFF).
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
The receiver’s squelch will open based on the highest level set by the two squelch
systems, “Noise Squelch” and “RF Squelch.” For example:
1) If the Noise Squelch (SQL control) is set so that signals at a level of S-3 will open the
squelch, but the RF Squelch (Menu #42) is set to “S-9,” the squelch will only open on
signals which are S-9 or stronger on the S-meter.
2) If the RF Squelch is set to “S-3,” but the Noise Squelch is set to a high level which will
only pass signals which are Full Scale on the S-meter, the squelch will only open on
signals which are Full Scale on the S-meter. In this case, the Noise Squelch overrides the
action of the RF Squelch.
ADVANCED OPERATION
21FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
REPEATER OPERATION
The FT-1900R includes a host of convenience features which makes operation on amateur
repeaters both efficient and enjoyable.
This transceiver offers three methods of setting up split-frequency operation on repeaters:
Manual selection of preset repeater shifts (Standard Repeater Shift);
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS), providing automatic activation of repeater shifts
while operating within designated repeater frequency subbands; and
Independently stored transmit and receive frequencies (typically not corresponding
to established repeater frequency shifts).
STANDARD REPEATER SHIFT
To activate the standard shift manually, you may use the Set (Menu) mode:
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “43 RPT.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select the desired shift direction (–RPT, +RPT, or SIMP).
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
You also may program one of the Microphone’s programmable keys ([P1] ~ [P4
])
to allow quick access to the above procedure. See page 65 for details on the setup
of the programmable keys.
With repeater shift activated, you can temporarily reverse the transmit and receive frequen-
cies by pressing the [REV(DW)] key (or the microphone’s [B] key). Use this feature to
display the transmit frequency without transmitting, and to check the strength of signals on
a repeater uplink frequency (so as to determine whether or not a particular station is within
“Simplex” range, for example).
The repeater offset is fixed to 600 kHz from the factory. You can change the offset by the
following procedure, if needed for vacation travel or other purposes:
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “46 SHIFT.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
set the desired offset. Note that the resolution of the “stan-
dard” repeater shift is to the nearest 50 kHz multiple.
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Do not use this procedure for programming of an “odd split” type repeater pair!
The process for programming odd splits is shown on page 35.
22 FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
REPEATER OPERATION
AUTOMATIC REPEATER SHIFT
The ARS (Automatic Repeater Shift) feature in this transceiver allows easy and convenient
repeater operation by automatically activating the repeater shift function whenever you
tune to a standard repeater subband. The ARS function is preset at the factory to conform to
the standards for the country to which it is exported.
The ARS function is enabled at the factory. To disable it:
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “4 ARS.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to
change the display to “OFF.”
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
To enable the ARS function again, select “ON” in step 2 above.
CHECKING THE REPEATER UPLINK (INPUT) FREQUENCY
It often is helpful to be able to check the uplink (input) frequency of a repeater, to see if the
calling station is within direct (“Simplex”) range.
To do this, just press the [REV(DW)] key. You’ll notice that the display has shifted to the
repeater uplink frequency. Press the [REV(DW)] key again to cause operation to revert to
normal monitoring of the repeater downlink (output) frequency. While you are listening on
the input frequency to the repeater using the [REV(DW)] key, the repeater offset icon will
blink.
European Version
Version A
145.1 145.5
145.6 145.8
146.0 146.4 147.0 147.6 148.0
146.6 147.4
A
RS-Repeater Subbands
23FT-1900R OPERATING MANUAL
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATION
CTCSS OPERATION
Many repeater systems require that a very-low-frequency audio tone be superimposed on your
FM carrier in order to activate the repeater. This helps prevent false activation of the repeater by
radar or spurious signals from other transmitters. This tone system, called “CTCSS” (Continuous
Tone Coded Squelch System), is included in your FT-1900R, and is very easy to activate.
CTCSS setup involves two actions: setting the Tone Mode and then setting of the
Tone Frequency. These actions are set up by using the Set (Menu) mode, selec-
tions #49 (SQL.TYP) and #52 (TN FRQ).
1. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then
rotate the DIAL knob to select “49 SQL.TYP.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob so that “TONE” appears on the
display; this activates the CTCSS Encoder, which allows
repeater access.
3. Rotating the DIAL knob one more click clockwise in the above step will cause “TSQL”
to appear. When “TSQL” appears, this means that the Tone Squelch system is active,
which mutes your FT-1900R’s receiver until it receives a call from another radio send-
ing out a matching CTCSS tone. This can help keep your radio quiet until a specific call
is received, which may be helpful while operating in congested areas.
1) You may notice a “RV TN” indication on the display while you rotate the
DIAL knob in this step; this means that the Reverse Tone Squelch system is
active, which mutes your FT-1900R’s receiver (instead of opening the squelch) when
it receives a call from the radio sending a matched CTCSS tone. The “T SQ” icon will
blink on the display when the Reverse Tone Squelch system is activated.
2) You may notice a “DCS” indication on the display while you rotate the DIAL knob
still more. We’ll discuss the Digital Code Squelch system shortly.
4. When you have made your selection of the CTCSS tone mode, press the [MHz(SET
)]
key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL knob three clicks clockwise to select Menu “52
TN FRQ.” This Menu selection allows setting of the CTCSS
tone frequency to be used.
5. Press the [MHz(SET)] key to enable adjust-
ment of the CTCSS frequency.
6. Rotate the
DIAL knob
until the display indicates the Tone Fre-
quency you need to be using.
7. When you have made your selection, press
and hold in the [MHz(SET)] key for one
second to save the new setting and exit to
normal operation.
CTCSS TONE FREQUENCY (Hz
)
67.0 69.3 71.9 74.4 77.0 79.7
82.5 85.4 88.5 91.5 94.8 97.4
100.0 103.5 107.2 110.9 114.8 118.8
123.0 127.3 131.8 136.5 141.3 146.2
151.4 156.7 159.8 162.2 165.5 167.9
171.3 173.8 177.3 179.9 183.5 186.2
189.9 192.8 196.6 199.5 203.5 206.5
210.7 218.1 225.7 229.1 233.6 241.8
250.3 254.1 ––––
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