Yaesu FT-270R Service Manual
VHF FM TRANSCEIVER
FT-270R
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-270R Quick Reference Guide
General Description ......................................... 1
Accessories & Options ..................................... 2
Controls & Connections .................................. 3
Top & Front Panel .......................................... 3
LCD ................................................................ 4
Side Panel ....................................................... 5
Keypad Functions .......................................... 6
Installation of Accessories ............................... 8
Antenna Installation ....................................... 8
Installation of FNB-83 Battery Pack ............. 8
Battery Charging ............................................ 9
Low Battery Indication .................................. 9
Belt Clip Installation .................................... 10
Installation of FBA-25A Battery Case ......... 10
Interface of Packet TNCs .............................. 11
Operation ........................................................ 12
Switching Power On and Off ....................... 12
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level ............. 12
Squelch Adjustment ..................................... 13
Frequency Navigation .................................. 13
Transmission ................................................ 15
Advanced Operation ...................................... 16
Keyboard Locking ........................................ 16
Keypad/LCD Illumination ........................... 17
Disabling the Keypad Beeper ...................... 17
RF Squelch ................................................... 18
Checking the Battery Voltage ...................... 18
Repeater Operation ........................................ 19
Repeater Shifts ............................................. 19
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS) ................. 19
Manual Repeater Shift Activation ............... 20
VFO Split Mode ........................................... 21
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Operation ...................... 23
CTCSS Operation ........................................ 23
DCS Operation ............................................. 24
Tone Search Scanning ................................. 25
EPCS
(Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch)
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Bell Operation ............. 27
Split Tone Operation .................................... 28
Tone Calling (1750 Hz) ............................... 28
Memory Mode ................................................ 29
Memory Storage ........................................... 29
Storing Independent
Transmit Frequencies (“Odd Split”) ........ 29
Memory Recall ............................................. 30
HOME Channel Memory ............................. 30
Labeling Memories ...................................... 31
Memory Offset Tuning ................................ 32
Deleting Memories ....................................... 32
Memory Bank Operation ............................. 33
Moving Memory Data to the VFO ............... 34
Memory Only Mode ..................................... 34
Weather Broadcast Channels ....................... 35
....... 26
Scanning .......................................................... 36
VFO Scanning .............................................. 37
Manual VFO Scan ................................... 37
Programmed VFO Scan ........................... 37
Memory Scanning ........................................ 38
How to Skip (Omit) a Channel
during Memory Scan Operation .............. 38
Preferential Memory Scan ....................... 39
Memory Bank Scan ................................. 40
Programmable (Band Limit) Memory Scan
(PMS) ........................................................... 41
“Priority Channel” Scanning
(Dual Watch) ................................................ 42
Automatic Lamp Illumination
on Scan Stop ................................................ 44
Band Edge Beeper ........................................ 44
Weather Alert Scan ...................................... 45
Emergency Channel Operation .................... 46
Smart Search Operation ................................ 47
Internet Connection Feature ......................... 48
ARTS
(Automatic Range Transponder System)
DTMF Operation ........................................... 53
DTMF Pager Operation ................................ 55
Miscellaneous Settings ................................... 58
Password ...................................................... 58
Programming the Key Assignment .............. 59
Changing the Channel Steps ........................ 59
Receive Battery Saver Setup ........................ 60
TX Battery Saver .......................................... 60
Disabling the TX/BUSY Indicator .............. 61
Automatic Power-Off (APO) Feature .......... 61
Transmitter Time-Out Timer (TOT) ............ 62
Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO) ................ 62
DCS Code Inversion .................................... 63
Changing the TX Deviation Level ............... 64
Reset Procedures ............................................ 65
Cloning ............................................................ 66
Set Mode .......................................................... 68
Specifications .................................................. 81
Installation of the FTD-7 DTMF Pager Unit
....... 50
...... 82
FT-270R Q
UICK
R
EFERENCE
G
UIDE
TRANSMISSION SWITCH
Speak into the microphone
in a normal voice level while
pressing the PTT switch.
POWER SWITCH AND VOL KNOB
Rotate the PWR/VOL knob to turn the
radio on and adjust the Audio Volume
Level.
FREQUENCY DIAL KNOB
Rotate the DIAL knob to select the
operating frequency.
MICROPH O NE
MONI SWITCH
Press MONI Switch to disable
the noise squelching action.
LOCK KEY
Press and hold in the [F/L] key for
one second to lock all key functions
except the VOL Knob, PTT and
MONI Switches.
FT-270R Q
KEY OVERVIEW
Press Key
Frequency entry digit “1.”
Frequency entry digit “2.”
Frequency entry digit “3.”
Frequency entry digit “4.”
Frequency entry digit “5.”
Frequency entry digit “6.”
Frequency entry digit “7.”
Frequency entry digit “8.”
Frequency entry digit “9.”
Activates the Internet Connection feature.
Frequency entry digit “0.”
Sets the frequency control to
the Memory Recall mode.
Activates the “Memory
“Tune” mode while in the
Memory Recall mode.
Sets frequency control to
the VFO mode.
Toggles the VFO between
“VFO A” and “VFO B”
while in the VFO mode.
Increasser the VFO frequency by one step or moves
the memory channel to the
next-highest channel.
Decreases the VFO frequency by one step or moves
the memory channel to the
next-lowest channel.
Reverses the transmit and
receive frequencies while
working through a repeater.
Activates the “Alternate”
key function.
UICK
R
EFERENCE
Press [F/L] + Key
Activates the CTCSS or
DCS Operation.
Selects the CTCSS tone or
DCS code number.
Selects the desired transmit power output level.
Selects the direction of the
uplink frequency shift during repeater operation.
Selects the CTCSS/DCS
Bell ringer repetitions.
Toggles the display indication between “frequency”
and the channel’s “Alpha/
Numeric Tag”.
Selects the Scan Resume
Mode.
Selects the LCD/Keypad
Lamp Mode.
Selects the DTMF Mode.
Engages the Set (Menu)
Mode.
Selects the Memory Scan
“Skip” channel-selection
mode.
Activates the Priority
(Dual Watch) function.
Tunes the VFO frequency
upward in 1 MHz steps.
Tunes the VFO frequency
downward in 1 MHz steps.
Switches to the “Home”
(favorite frequency) Channel.
Disables the “Alternate”
key function.
G
UIDE
Press & Hold Key
Toggles the “Weather”
broadcast channel memory
bank on/off.
Activates the ARTS feature.
Activates the Smart Search
feature.
Activates the EMERGENCY function.
Starts the programmable
scanner upward (toward a
higher frequency or a
higher channel number).
Enables Internet access
code selection.
Activates the “Memory
Write” mode (for memory
channel storage).
Selects the Band width for
the VFO scanner. Selects
the Memory Bank while in
the Memory Recall mode.
Starts the scanner upward.
(toward a higher frequency
or a higher channel number).
Starts the scanner downward. (toward a lower frequency or a lower channel
number).
Activates the Key Lockout
feature.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The FT-270R is a compact, high-performance FM hand-held providing up to five watts of
RF power and wealth of convenient features for the 2-meter amateur band.
New and exciting features of the FT-270R are Enhanced Paging and Code Squelch (EPCS),
that allows you to page a particular station and only receive calls from that station, if
desired; and a security Password feature, that will allow you to turn on and operate your
transceiver only after you enter your Password.
Additional features include a convenient access key for Vertex Standard’s WIRES™ (Widecoverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System), a transmit Time-Out Timer (TOT), Automatic Power-Off (APO), Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS), Vertex Standard’s exclusive ARTS™
(Auto-Range Transponder System) which “beeps” the user when you move out of communications range with another ARTS™ equipped station, 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.
We appreciate your purchase of the FT-270R, and encourage you to read this manual
thoroughly, so as to learn about the many exciting features of your exciting new Vertex
Standard hand-held transceiver!
: IPX7 Specification for submersility: 3 ft. for 30 minutes
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 1
ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES
FNB-83 7.2 V, 1,400 mAh
Rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery Pack
NC-88B Overnight Battery Charger (10-Hour)
YHA-68 Antenna
Quick Draw Belt Clip
Operating Manual
Warranty Card
AVAILABLE OPTIONS
FNB-83 7.2 V, 1,400 mAh
Rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery Pack
NC-88B/C/U
VAC-370 Desktop Rapid Charger
CD-26 Charger Cradle
FBA-25A Dry Cell Battery Case for 6 “AA” Alkaline Cells (not supplied)
CN-3 BNC-to-SMA Adapter
CT-91 Microphone Adapter
E-DC-5B DC Cable with Cigarette-Lighter Adapter
E-DC-6 DC Cable; plug and wire only
MH-57A4B Speaker/Microphone
MH-73A4B Waterproof Speaker/Microphone
VC-27 Earpiece/Microphone
VC-24 VOX Headset
FTD-7 DTMF Paging Unit
Overnight Battery Charger (10-Hour)
:“B” suffix is for use with 100-120 VAC, “C” suffix is for use with 230-240 VAC, and “U”
suffix is for use with 230 VAC.
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 accessories. 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.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL2
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS
Antenna Jack
Connect the supplied rubber flex antenna (or another antenna presenting a 50-Ohm impedance)
here.
MIC/SP Jack
This four-conductor miniature jack provides connection points for microphone audio, earphone
audio, PTT, and ground.
Do not allow the FT-270R to become submerged in water while the plastic
cover over the MIC/SP jack is removed.
VOL/PWR Knob
Turn this control clockwise to turn the radio on and to increase the volume. Counterclockwise rotation into the click-stop will turn the radio off.
DIAL Knob
This (inner) 20-position detented rotary switch is used for setting the operating frequency, and also is used for menu selections and other adjustments.
Speaker
The internal speaker is located here.
(
OP & FRONT PANELS
T
)
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
The display shows the current operating conditions, as described on
the next page.
Keypad
These 16 keys select many of most
important operating features on the
FT-270R. The functions of the keys
are described in detail on the pages
to follow.
TX/BUSY Indicator Lamp
This indicator glows green when the
squelch opens, and turns red during transmit.
MIC
The internal microphone is located
here.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 3
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS
Memory Channel Number
Skip Memory Channel or
Preferential Memory Channel
Repeater Shift Direction
(
CTCSS/DSC Operation
LCD
)
Priority Channel
Memory Bank Active
Secondary Keypad
Active
Low TX Power Selected
DTMF Autodial Active
Dual Watch Active
Internet Connection
Feature Active
Bell Alarm Active
Operating Frequency
Battery Indicator
S- & PO Meter
Key Lock Active
Automatic Power-Off Active
Battery Saver Active
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL4
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS
PTT (Push To Talk) Switch
Press this switch to transmit, and release it (to receive) after your transmission is
completed.
MONI Switch
Pressing this switch disables the noise squelching action, allowing you to hear very
weak signals near the background noise level temporarily.
Press the [F
of the squelch threshold level.
EXT DC Jack
This coaxial DC jack allows connection to an external DC power source (6-16V DC).
The center pin of this jack is the Positive (+) connection.
/L]
key on the keypad first, then press this switch to enable to adjustment
Do not allow the FT-270R to become submerged in water while the rubber
cap over the EXT DC jack is removed.
(
IDE PANEL
S
)
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 5
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS
(
EYPAD FUNCTIONS
K
)
Primary Function
(
RESS KEY
P
Secondary Function
(
P
RESS
Third Function
(
P
RESS & HOLD KEY
Primary Function
(
P
RESS KEY
Secondary Function
(
PRESS [F/L] + KEY
Third Function
(
P
RESS & HOLD KEY
Primary Function
(
P
RESS KEY
Secondary Function
(
P
RESS
)
[
F/L] + KEY
)
)
[
F/L] + KEY
Frequency entry digit “1.” Frequency entry digit “2.”
)
)
)
)
)
Activates the CTCSS or
DCS Operation.
Toggles the “Weather” broadcast
channel memory bank on/off.
Frequency entry digit “4.” Frequency entry digit “5.”
Selects the direction of the uplink
frequency shift (either “–,” “+,” or
“simplex”) during repeater operation.
Activates the EMERGENCY
function.
Frequency entry digit “7.” Frequency entry digit “8.”
Selects the Scan Resume Mode.
Selects the CTCSS tone or
DCS code number.
Activates the ARTS feature.
Selects the CTCSS/DCS Bell ringer
repetitions.
None
11
Selects the LCD/Keypad
Lamp Mode.
Third Function
(
P
RESS & HOLD KEY
Primary Function
(
RESS KEY
P
Secondary Function
(
PRESS [F/L] + KEY
Third Function
(
PRESS & HOLD KEY
1:You can program the secondary (press [F/L] key +) function of the key to another function, if
desired. See page 59 for details.
)
Sets the frequency control to the
Activates the “Memory “Tune” mode
)
while in the Memory Recall mode.
Selects the Memory Scan “Skip”
)
)
channel-selection mode.
Activates the “Memory Write” mode
(for memory channel storage).
None None
Memory Recall mode.
Activates the Internet Connection
feature.
Frequency entry digit “0.”
Engages the Set (Menu) Mode.
Enables Internet access code
selection.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL6
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS
(
EYPAD FUNCTIONS
K
)
Primary Function
(
RESS KEY
P
Secondary Function
(
P
RESS
Third Function
(
P
RESS & HOLD KEY
Primary Function
(
PRESS KEY
Secondary Function
(
PRESS [F/L] + KEY
Third Function
(
P
RESS & HOLD KEY
Primary Function
(
P
RESS KEY
Secondary Function
(
P
RESS
[
F/L] + KEY
[
F/L] + KEY
)
)
)
Frequency entry digit “3.”
Selects the desired transmit power
)
Activates the Smart Search feature.
)
Toggles the display indication
between “frequency” and the
)
channel’s “Alpha/Numeric Tag”.
Starts the programmable scanner
upward (toward a higher frequency
)
)
output level.
Frequency entry digit “6.”
or a higher channel number)
Frequency entry digit “9.”
Selects the DTMF mode.
Increases the VFO frequency by
one step or moves the memory
channel to the next-highest channel.
Tunes the VFO frequency
upward in 1 MHz steps.
Starts the scanner upward
(toward a higher frequency or
a higher channel number).
Decreases the VFO frequency by
one step or moves the memory
channel to the next-lowest channel.
Tunes the VFO frequency
downward in 1 MHz steps.
Starts the scanner downward
(toward a lower frequency or
a lower channel number).
2
Reverses the transmit and receive
frequencies while working through a
repeater.
Switches to the “Home” (favorite
frequency) Channel.
Third Function
(
P
RESS & HOLD KEY
Primary Function
(
RESS KEY
P
Secondary Function
(
PRESS [F/L] + KEY
Third Function
(
PRESS & HOLD KEY
2:You can exchange the function between the primary (press key) function and secondary
(press [F/L] key +) function, if desired. See page 77 for details.
)
Sets frequency control to the VFO mode.
)
Toggles the VFO between “VFO A” and
“VFO B” while in the VFO mode.
Activates the Priority (Dual Watch)
)
Selects the Band width for the VFO
Selects the Memory Bank while in the
)
None
function.
scanner.
Memory Recall mode.
Activates the “Alternate” key
Disables the “Alternate” key
Activates the Key Lockout feature.
None
function.
function.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 7
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES
ANTENNA INSTALLA TION
The supplied antenna provides good results over the entire
frequency range of the transceiver. However, for enhanced
reception on certain non-Amateur frequencies, you may wish
to connect an antenna designed specifically for that frequency
range, as the supplied antenna is necessarily a compromise
outside the Amateur band, and cannot be expected to provide
high performance at all frequencies.
To install the supplied antenna, hold the bottom end of the
antenna, then screw it onto the mating connector on the transceiver until it is snug. Do not over-tighten by use of extreme
force.
Notes:
Never transmit without having an antenna connected.
When installing the supplied antenna, never hold the upper part of the antenna while
screwing it onto the mating connector on the transceiver.
If using an external antenna for transmission, ensure that the SWR presented to the
transceiver is 1.5:1 or lower, to avoid excessive feedline loss.
INST ALLATION OF FNB-83 BATTERY PACK
The FNB-83 is a high-performance Ni-MH battery providing high capacity in a compact
package. Under normal use, the FNB-83 may be used for approximately 300 charge cycles,
after which operating time may be expected to decrease. If you have an old battery pack
which is displaying capacity which has become diminished, you should replace the pack
with a new one.
Installation of the battery is easy and quick:
Insert the battery pack into the battery compart-
ment on the back of the radio while tilting the
Belt Clip outward, then
close the Battery Pack
Latch until it locks in
place with a “Click.”
To remove the battery,
turn the radio off and
remove any protective
cases. Open the Battery
Pack Latch on the bottom of the radio, then slide the battery downward and out from
the radio while tilting the Belt Clip out of the way.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL8
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES
BATTERY CHARGING
If the battery has never been used, or its charge is depleted, it may be charged by connecting the NC-88 Overnight Battery Charger, as shown in the illustration, to the EXT DC jack.
If only 12 ~ 16 Volt DC power is available, the optional E-DC-5B DC Cable (with its cigarette
lighter plug) or E-DC-6 DC Cable (plug and wire only) may also be used for charging the
battery.
A fully-discharged pack will be charged completely in 10 hours. Disconnect the NC-88
from the EXT DC jack and the AC line outlet.
NC-88 E-DC-6E-DC-5B
Important Note
The NC-88 is not designed to power the transceiver for operation (reception or trans-
mission).
Do not leave the NC-88 connected to the transceiver for continuous periods in excess
of 24 hours. Long term overcharging can degrade the Ni-MH battery pack and significantly shorten its useful life.
Please be advised that the NC-88 may contribute noise to TV and radio reception in
the immediate vicinity, so we do not recommend its use adjacent to such devices.
LOW BATTERY INDICATION
As your battery discharges during use, the voltage will gradually become lower. When
the battery voltage is becoming too low for reliable operation,
the “ ” icon will blink on the LCD display, indicating that the
battery pack must be recharged before further use.
Avoid recharging Ni-MH batteries before the “ ”indicator is
observed, as this can degrade the charge capacity of your Ni-MH battery pack.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 9
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES
BEL T CLIP INSTALLATION
Connect the hanger to the rear of the FT-270R, with the notch pointing directly up,
using the supplied screw (Figure 1). Use only the screw included with the clip to mount
the clip to the back of the FT-270R.
Clip the Quick-Draw Belt Clip onto your belt (Figure 2).
To install the FT-270R into the Quick-Draw Belt Clip, align the hanger with the Quick-
Draw Belt Clip, and slide the FT-270R into its slot until a click is heard (Figure 3).
To remove the FT-270R from the Quick-Draw Belt Clip, rotate the FT-270R 180 de-
grees, then slide the FT-270R out from the Quick-Draw Belt Clip (Figure 4).
Figure 1
Figure 2
INSTALLATION OF FBA-25A ALKALINE BATTERY CASE (OPTION
The optional FBA-25A Battery Case allows operation of the FT-270R using six “AA” size
Alkaline batteries.
When installing batteries, insert the (–) end first, then press in the (+) end so the battery
snaps into place. Always replace all six batteries at the same time, paying attention to the
polarity indicated inside the case.
The FBA-25A must not be used with rechargeable cells. The FBA-25A does not contain
the thermal and over-current protection circuits (provided in the “FNB” series of Ni-MH
Battery Packs) required when utilizing Ni-Cd and Ni-MH cells.
Note that the power output and battery life will be much shorter when using Alkaline AA
cells. They should be considered an emergency backup power source only, for this reason.
Figure 3
Figure 4
)
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL10
INTERFACE OF PACKET TNCS
The FT-270R may be used for Packet operation, using the optional CT-91 Microphone
Adapter (available from your Yaesu dealer) for easy interconnection to commonly-available connectors wired to your TNC. You may also build your own cable, using a fourconductor miniature phone plug, per the diagram below.
The audio level from the receiver to the TNC may be adjusted by using the VOL knob, as
with voice operation. The input level to the FT-270R from the TNC should be adjusted at
the TNC side; the optimum input voltage is approximately 5 mV at 2000 Ohms.
Be sure to turn the transceiver and TNC off before connecting the cables, so as to prevent
voltage spikes from possibly damaging your transceiver.
When you are operating on Packet, switch the Receive Battery Saver OFF, as the “sleep”
cycle may “collide” with the beginning of an incoming Packet transmission, causing your
TNC not to receive the full data burst. See page 60 for details regarding Battery Saver
setup.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 11
OPERATION
Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the many
features of the FT-270R. I know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I encour-
age you to read the “Operation” section of this manual as thoroughly as
possible, so you’ll get the most out of this fantastic new transceiver. Now. . .let’s get
operating!
SWITCHING POWER ON AND OFF
Be sure the Battery Pack is installed, and that the battery is fully charged. Connect the
antenna to the top panel ANTENNA jack.
Rotate the top panel’s VOL/PWR knob (inner knob)
out of the click-stop to turn on the radio. The current
DC supply voltage will be indicated on the display for 2
seconds. After this 2 second interval, the display will
resume its normal indication of the operating frequency.
To turn the radio off, turn the VOL/PWR knob fully
counter-clockwise into the click stop position.
ADJUSTING THE AUDIO VOLUME LEVEL
Rotate the VOL/PWR knob (inner knob) to adjust the receiver audio to a comfortable listening level, using the background noise as a reference. Clockwise rotation increases
the volume level.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL12
OPERATION
SQUELCH ADJUSTMENT
To set the squelch, press the [F/L] key, followed by the MONI switch just below the
PTT switch on the left side of the transceiver.
Now rotate the DIAL (outer knob) to find the lowest
setting (“LVL 1” through “LVL 15”) that will just
silence the background noise. Do not use a higher setting than necessary, or sensitivity to weak incoming
signals will be degraded.
Press the PTT switch momentarily when you’ve made
the new setting; this will return you to normal operation (without having transmitted).
1) 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. See page 18 for details.
2) If you’re operating in an area of high RF pollution, you may need to consider “Tone
Squelch” operation using the built-in CTCSS Decoder. This feature will keep your radio
quiet until a call is received from a station sending a carrier which contains a matching
(subaudible) CTCSS tone. Or, if your friends have radios equipped with DCS (Digital
Coded Squelch) like your FT-270R has, try using that mode for silent monitoring of busy
channels.
FREQUENCY NAVIGA TION
The FT-270R will initially be operating in the “VFO” mode, a channelized system which
allows free tuning throughout the currently-selected operating band.
Three basic frequency navigation methods are available on the FT-270R:
1) Tuning Dial
Rotation of the DIAL (outer knob) allows tuning in the pre-programmed steps established
for the current operating band. Clockwise rotation of the DIAL causes the FT-270R to be
tuned toward a higher frequency, while counter-clockwise
rotation will lower the operating frequency.
If you press the [F/L] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL,
frequency steps of 1 MHz will be selected. This feature is
extremely useful for making rapid frequency excursions over
the wide tuning range of the FT-270R.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 13
OPERATION
FREQUENCY NAVIGATION
2) Direct Keypad Frequency Entry
The desired operating frequency may be entered directly from the keypad. The first “1” in
the frequency does not need to be entered, as it is “assumed” by the microprocessor.
To enter a frequency directly, just key in the 10 MHz, 1 MHz, and the kHz digits.
Examples:To enter 146.560 MHz, press [4] [6] [5] [6] [0
To enter 146.5625 MHz (12.5 kHz steps), [4] [6] [5] [6] [2
]
]
3) Scanning
Press and hold in either the [(MHz)] or [(MHz)] key for
one second to initiate upward or downward scanning, respectively (Manual VFO Scan).
For scanning within a limited sub-band range, from the VFO
mode, press and hold in the [6(A/N)] key for one second to
begin scanning toward a higher frequency within the previously-defined sub-band (Programmed VFO Scan). Details
regarding sub-band setup may be found on page 37.
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 one click in the counter-clockwise direction while
the FT-270R is scanning. The scanning direction will be
reversed. To revert to scanning toward a higher frequency
once more, rotate the DIAL one click clockwise.
The scanner will stop when it receives a signal strong enough to break through the Squelch
threshold. The FT-270R will then hold on that frequency according to the setting of the
“RESUME” mode (Set Mode Item 32: RESUME). Press the PTT switch momentarily to
cancel the scanning. This only stops the scan; it does not cause transmission to occur. See
page 38 for details regarding Scan Operation.
(
MANUAL VFO SCAN
(
PROGRAMMED VFO SCAN
)
)
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL14
OPERATION
TRANSMISSION
Once you have set up an appropriate frequency inside the 144 MHz Amateur band on
which the FT-270R can transmit, you’re ready to go on the air! These are the most basic
steps; more advanced aspects of transmitter operation will be discussed later.
To transmit, press the PTT switch, and speak into the
front panel microphone (located in the lower left-hand
corner of the speaker grille) in a normal voice level. The
TX/BUSY indicator will glow red during transmission.
To return to the receive mode, release the PTT switch.
During transmission, the relative power level will be
indicated on the bar graph at the bottom of the LCD;
full scale deflection confirms “High Power” operation, while
deflection of two bars indicates “Low Power” operation. Five
bars indicate “Medium Power” operation. Additionally, the
“LOW” icon will appear at the bottom of the display while operating on the “Low Power” and “Medium Power” settings.
1) If you’re just talking to friends in the immediate area,
you’ll get much longer battery life by switching to Low
Power operation, described in the next chapter. And don’t
forget: always have an antenna connected when you transmit.
2) Transmission is possible only on the 144 MHz amateur band.
“LOW” POWER
“MID” POWER
Changing the Transmitter Power Level
To change the power level:
Press the [F/L] key, then press the [3(LOW)] key. The
LCD shows the current power output level.
Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired power out-
put level. Available selections are “HIGH” (5 W),
“MID” (2 W), and “LOW” (0.5 W).
When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch
to save the new setting and return to normal operation.
1) The FT-270R is smart! When you store memories, you can store the power
output settings separately in each memory, so you don’t waste battery power
when using very close-in repeaters!
2) When you are operating on the “Low” or “Medium” power setting, you can press the
[F/L] key, then press the PTT switch, to cause the FT-270R to transmit (temporarily) on
High power. After one transmission, the power level will revert to the previously-selected
(“Low” or “Medium” power) setting.
“HIGH” POWER
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 15
ADVANCED OPERATION
Now that you’re mastered the basics of FT-270R operation, let’s learn more about some of
the really neat features.
KEYBOARD LOCKING
To activate the locking feature, press and hold in the [F/L] key for
one second. The “ ” icon will appear on the LCD. To cancel locking
press and hold in the [F/L] key again for one second.
In order to prevent accidental frequency change or inadvertent transmission, various aspects of the FT-270R’s DIAL and keypad may be locked out. You may
change the lockout combinations.
To lock out some or all of the keys:
1. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set
mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 26: LOCK.
3. Press the [F/L] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this
Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to the desired locking scheme as listed
below:
LK KEY:Just the front panel keypad is locked out
LKDIAL: Just the top panel DIAL is locked out
LK K+D: Both the keypad and DIAL are locked out (factory default)
LK PTT: The PTT switch is locked out (TX not possible)
LK P+K: Both the PTT switch and keypad are locked out
LK P+D: Both the PTT switch and DIAL are locked out
LK ALL:All of the above are locked out
5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting
and return to normal operation.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL16
ADVANCED OPERATION
KEYP AD/LCD ILLUMINATION
Your FT-270R includes a reddish illumination lamp which aids in nighttime operation. The
reddish illumination yields clear viewing of the display in a dark environment, with minimal
degradation of your night vision.
Three options for activating the lamp are provided:
KEY Mode: Illuminates the Keypad/LCD lamp for five seconds when you rotate the
DIAL knob or press the keypad or any switch (except PTT switch).
This is the factory-programmed default setting.
CONT Mode:Illuminates the Keypad/LCD lamp continuously.
OFF Mode: Disables the Keypad/LCD lamp.
Here is the procedure for setting up the Lamp operating mode:
1. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set
mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 25: LAMP.
3. Press the [F/L] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this
Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select one of the three modes described
above.
5. When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and
return to normal operation.
DISABLING THE KEYPAD BEEPER
A keypad beeper provides useful audible feedback whenever a keypad is pressed.
If you want to turn the beep off:
1. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 6: BEEP.
3. Press the [F/L] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this
Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to change the setting to “OFF.”
5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to
normal operation.
6. To turn the beep back on again, select “KEY” or “KEY+SC
(factory default)” in step 4 above.
KEY: The beeper sounds when you press the keypad.
KEY+SC: The beeper sounds when you press the keypad, or when the scanner stops.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 17
ADVANCED OPERATION
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 the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 34: RF SQL.
3. Press the [F/L] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this
Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired signal strength level
for the squelch threshold (S-1, S-2, S-3, S-4, S-5, S-6, S-8,
S-FULL, or OFF).
5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to
normal operation.
CHECKING THE BATTERY VOLTAGE
The FT-270R’s microprocessor includes programming which will measure the current bat-
tery voltage.
1. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set
mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 12: DC VLT.
3. Press the [F/L] key momentarily to display the current DC voltage being supplied.
4. Press the [F/L] key, followed by the PTT switch to return to
normal operation.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL18
REPEATER OPERATION
Repeater stations, usually located on mountaintops or other high locations, provide a
dramatic extension of the communication range for low-powered hand-held or mobile transceivers. The FT-270R includes a number of features which make repeater operation simple
and enjoyable.
REPEA TER SHIFTS
The FT-270R has been configured, at the factory, with the repeater shift set to 600 kHz.
Depending on the part of the band in which
you are operating, the repeater shift may be
either downward (–) or upward (+), and one of
these icons will appear at the top of the LCD
when repeater shifts have been enabled.
AUTOMATIC REPEATER SHIFT (ARS)
The FT-270R provides a convenient Automatic Repeater Shift feature, which causes the
appropriate repeater shift to be applied automatically whenever you tune into the designated repeater sub-bands in your country. These sub-bands are shown below.
If the ARS feature does not appear to be working, you may have accidentally disabled it.
To re-enable ARS:
1. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 4: ARS.
3. Press the [F/L] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this
Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ARS. ON.”
5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to
save the new setting and return to normal operation.
ARS-Repeater Subbands
145.1 145.5
145.6 145.8
USA Version
146.0 146.4 147.0 147.6 148.0
146.6 147.4
EXP Version
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 19
REPEATER OPERATION
MANUAL REPEATER SHIFT ACTIVA TION
If the ARS feature has been disabled, or if you need to set a repeater shift direction other
than that established by the ARS, you may set the direction of the repeater shift manually.
To do this:
1. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [4(RPT)] key to enable selection of the repeater
shift direction.
2. This provides a “short-cut” to Set Mode Item 35: RPT.MOD.
3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired shift among “RPT.–,”
“RPT.+,” and “RPT.OFF.”
4. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and
return to normal operation.
If you make a change in the shift direction, but still have Automatic Repeater
Shift still engaged (see previous section), when you change frequency (by
rotating the DIAL knob, for example) the ARS will over-ride your manual
setting of the shift direction. Turn ARS off if you do not wish this to happen.
If you make a change in the repeater shift on a memory channel that you already stored, the
radio will consider this a “temporary” change unless you store the memory once more, this
time with the desired repeater shift engaged.
Changing the Default Repeater Shifts
If you travel to a different region, you may need to change the default repeater shift so as
to ensure compatibility with local operating requirements.
To do this, follow the procedure below:
1. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set
mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 41: SHIFT.
3. Press the [F/L] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this
Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the new repeater shift magnitude.
5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting
and return to normal operation.
If you just have one “odd” split that you need to program, don’t change the
“default” repeated shifts using this Set Mode Item. Enter the transmit and
receive frequencies separately, as shown on page 29.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL20
REPEATER OPERATION
MANUAL REPEATER SHIFT ACTIVATION
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(HOME)] key. You’ll notice
that the display has shifted to the repeater uplink frequency.
Press the [REV(HOME)] 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(HOME)] key, the
repeater offset icon will blink.
The configuration of this key may be set either to “RV” (for checking the input frequency of a repeater), or “HM” (for instant switching to the “Home” channel for the
band you are operating on). To change the configuration of this key, use Set Mode Item
33: REV/HM. See page 77.
VFO SPLIT MODE
For working on repeaters with odd splits, or communicating with astronauts on orbiting
space vehicles, it may be necessary to use non-standard splits between the receive and
transmit frequency. If the application is infrequent enough not to warrant the dedication of
a memory channel for this purpose, the “VFO Split” mode may be used. Here is the procedure for going Split:
1. Press the [VFO(PRI)] key, as needed, to select VFO-A. Set VFO-A for the desired
receiving (downlink) frequency (e.g.145.800 MHz).
2. Now press the [VFO(PRI)] key, and set VFO-B for the desired transmit (uplink) frequency (e.g. 144.490 MHz).
3. Press the [VFO(PRI)] key once more to re-establish VFO-A as the “Main” (receive)
VFO.
4. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode.
5. Rotate the DIAL to select Set Mode Item 50: VFO.SPL.
6. Press the [F/L] key, then rotate the DIAL to set this function
“VSP. ON.”
7. Press the PTT switch once to save the new setting and exit to
normal operation.
8. You will now be operating in the Split mode. When you press
the PTT switch to transmit, you will observe that VFO-A and
VFO-B will reverse positions. The VFO selection indicator “-b-” will blink while the
transceiver is transmitting, this means that the VFO Split feature is now activated.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 21
REPEATER OPERATION
VFO SPLIT MODE
9. If you need to modify the VFO-B (transmit) frequency (for Doppler Shift correction,
etc.), just press the [VFO(PRI)] key, then make the necessary change, then press
[
VFO(PRI)] key once more to restore VFO-A to the “receive VFO” position.
10. When you have finished with Split operation, re-enter the Set mode, and change Set
Mode Item 50: VFO.SPL to “VSP.OFF.”
A split frequency pair set up via the VFO Split feature cannot be stored directly into
memory. You can, however, store odd frequency pairs using a different (slightly simpler)
procedure. See page 29.
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL22
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-270R, 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 [1(SQ TYP)] key
and [2(CODE)] keys.
1. Press the [F/L] key, then press the [1(SQ TYP)] key to enable selection of the CTCSS/
DCS/ECS mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob so that “TONE” indication appears on
the display; this activates the CTCSS Encoder, for access to
repeaters requiring a CTCSS tone.
3. Rotation of the DIAL knob one more “click” in step “2” above
will cause the “TSQL” notation to appear. When “TSQL” is
displayed, this means that the Tone SQueLch system is active,
which mutes your FT-270R’s receiver until it receives a call from
another radio sending 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 of the band.
1) You may notice a “REV 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-270R’s receiver (instead of opening
the squelch) when it receives a call from the radio sending a matched
CTCSS tone. The “ ” icon will blink on the display when the Reverse Tone
Squelch system is activated.
2) You may notice the “DCS” and “ECS” indications on the display while you rotate
the DIAL knob still more. We’ll discuss the Digital Code Squelch system (for “DCS”)
and Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch (for “ECS”) later.
4. When you have made your selection of the CTCSS tone mode, press the PTT switch
to save the new setting.
5. Press the [F/L] key, then press the
[2(
CODE)] key to enable adjustment of
the CTCSS frequency.
6. Rotate the DIAL
knob until the display indicates the Tone Frequency you
need to be using (ask the repeater owner/
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 ––––
)
FT-270R OPERATING MANUAL 23
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