Yaesu FT-817ND User Manual
HF/VHF/UHF
ALL MODE TRANSCEIVER
FT-817
OPERATING MANUAL
YAESU MUSEN CO., LTD.
Tennozu Parkside Building
2-5-8 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 140-0002 Japan
YAESU USA
6125 Phyllis Drive, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
YAESU UK
Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Close
Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.
YAESU HK
Unit 2002, 20/F, 9 Chong Yip Street,
Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
ND
Contents
Introduction .................................................... 1
Specifications .................................................. 2
Accessories & Options.................................... 4
Plug Pinout ...................................................... 5
Installation ...................................................... 6
Connecting the Supplied YHA-63 Antenna ......... 6
Connecting the Microphone ................................. 7
Shoulder Strap Installation ................................... 7
Rubber Foot Installation .......................................7
Alkaline Battery Installation and Use ...................8
External Power Connections ................................ 9
FNB-85 Ni-Cd Battery Pack Installation and Use
Front Panel Control & Switches ................. 12
Side Panel Switch & Connectors................. 16
Rear Panel Connectors................................. 17
Operation ...................................................... 18
Turning the Transceiver On and Off ...................18
Supply Voltage Display ......................................18
Operating Band Selection ................................... 19
Mode Selection ...................................................19
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level ....................19
Menu Quick Start................................................20
Adjusting the RF Gain and Squelch ...................20
Setting the Operating Frequency ........................21
Stacked VFO System .......................................... 21
Operation on 5 MHz Band
(U.S. Version Only) ............................................ 22
Receiver Accessories ..................................... 23
Clarifier (Receiver incremental Tuning).............23
IF SHIFT.............................................................24
AGC (Automatic Gain Control) .........................25
Noise Blanker .....................................................25
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) ....................25
ATT (Front End Attenuator) ...............................26
AM/FM DIAL .................................................... 26
Automatic Power-Off Feature ............................27
Transmitter Operation ................................. 28
SSB Transmission...............................................28
Basic Setup/Operation ................................... 28
Adjusting the transmitter Power Output ... 28
VOX Operation .............................................. 29
CW Transmission ...............................................30
Operation using Straight Key/
External Keying Device ................................. 30
Operation using
the Built-in Electronic Keyer ......................... 32
...10
FM Transmission ................................................ 33
Basic Setup/Operation ................................... 33
Repeater Operation ........................................33
Tone Search Scanning ............................... 35
DCS Operation ............................................... 36
DCS Search Scanning ...............................36
ARTSTM (Auto Range Transpond System)
Operation ....................................................... 37
CW Identifier Setup .......................................37
Digital Mode Operation (SSB-Based AFSK) .....38
RTTY (Radio TeleType) Operation ................ 38
PSK31 Operation ...........................................39
“USER” Defined Digital Modes .................... 40
Packet (1200/9600 bps FM) Operation .............. 41
AM Transmission ...............................................42
Split Frequency Operation .................................. 42
Time-Out Timer ..................................................43
WeatherFax Monitoring......................................43
Memory Operation ....................................... 44
QMB Channel ..................................................... 44
Memory Operation on
“Regular” Memory Channels .............................45
Normal Memory Storage ..............................45
Split-Frequency Memory Storage .................. 45
Memory Channel Recall ................................46
Masking Memory ...........................................47
Memory Operation on
“HOME” Channel Memories .............................48
Labeling Memories ............................................. 49
Spectrum Scope Monitor Operation........... 50
Smart Search
Scanning Operation...................................... 52
Scanning Operation ............................................ 52
Scan Skip Programming (
Programmable Memory Scan (PMS) Operation .. 54
Dual Watch Operation .................................56
Operation on Alaska Emergency Frequency:
5167.5 kHz (U.S. Version Only)
Menu Operation ........................................... 58
Clonning ........................................................ 69
CACA
TT
CA
T System Programming........................ 70
CACA
TT
Installation of Optional Accessories............ 74
Option Filters
High-Stability Reference Oscillator TCXO-9 ....75
Power-on Microprocessor Reset Procedure
Appendix ....................................................... 77
Setup of Memories for Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
FM Satellite Operation ....................................... 77
BAND DATA Format ......................................... 80
TM
Operation .......................... 51
Memory Mode Only
Scan-Resume Choices ............................... 52
......................... 57
YF-122S/YF-122C/YF-122CN
) ..... 52
.....74
....... 76
INTRODUCTION
The FT-817ND is a compact, innovative multiband, multimode portable transceiver for the
amateur radio MF/HF/VHF/UHF bands. Providing coverage of the 160-10 meter bands
(include the 60 m band: USA version) plus the 6 m, 2 m, and 70 cm bands, the FT-817ND
includes operation on the SSB, CW, AM, FM, and Digital modes, yielding the most comprehensive performance package available for portable operation.
Designed for use either from an external DC power source or internal batteries, the FT-
817ND provides five watts of power output from a 13.8-Volt external power supply. When
using the FNB-85 Ni-MH Battery Pack or 8 “AA” Alkaline Cells (not supplied), the FT-
817ND automatically switches to 2.5 Watts of output power. Via the Menu system, “High”
power may be selected during battery operation, providing as much as 5 Watts of output,
depending on the operating frequency.
The multi-function Liquid-Crystal Display includes Blue, Amber, and Violet backlighting,
which may be disabled for battery conservation. The display includes bar-graph indication
of power output, ALC voltage, SWR, and modulation level. Also include are a number of
operating status icons, as well as the function displays for the three operating function keys
( , , and ).
Among the advanced features of the FT-817ND are many incorporated only in large base-
station transceivers. These include Dual VFOs; Split-Frequency operation; IF Shift; Clarifier (“R.I.T.”); IF Noise Blanker; AGC Fast/Slow/Auto/Off selection; RF Gain and Squelch
control; IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) and a receiver front-end Attenuator; AM Aircraft reception; AM and FM Broadcast reception; VOX; Built-in Electronic Keyer; Adjustable CW Pitch; Automatic FM Repeater Shift (ARS); Built-in CTCSS Encoder/Decoders;
ARTS™ (Auto-Range Transponder System); Smart Search™ Automatic Memory Loading
System; Spectrum Scope; 200 Memories plus Home Channels and Band-limiting Memories; Alpha-Numeric Labeling of Memories; Automatic Power-Off (APO) and Time-Out
Timer (TOT) functions; Computer Interface capability; and Cloning capability.
We urge you to read this manual in its entirety, so as to gain a full understanding of the
amazing capability of the exciting FT-817ND Portable Transceiver.
1FT-817ND Operating Manual
SPECIFICATIONS
GENERAL
Frequency Range: Receive: 100 kHz-30 MHz
50 MHz-54 MHz
76 MHz-154 MHz
420 MHz-470 MHz
Transmit: 160-6 Meters (USA: includes 60 meters)
2 Meters
70 Centimeters (Amateur bands only)
5.1675 MHz Alaska Emergency Frequency (USA only)
Emission Modes: A1A (CW), A3E (AM), J3E (LSB/USB), F3E (FM),
F1D (9600 bps packet), F2D (1200 bps packet)
Synthesizer Steps (Min.): 10 Hz (CW/SSB), 100 Hz (AM/FM)
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ohms, Unbalanced (Front: Type BNC, Rear: Type M)
Operating Temp. Range: –10 °C to +60 °C (+14 °F to +140 °F)
Frequency Stability: ±4 ppm from 1 min. to 60 min after power on.
@25 °C: 1 ppm/hour
±0.5 ppm/1 hour @25 °C, after warmup (with optional TCXO-9)
Supply Voltage: Normal: 13.8 VDC ± 15 %, Negative Ground
Operating: 8.0-16.0 V, Negative Ground
FBA-28 (w/8 “AA” Alkaline Cells): 12.0 V
FNB-85 (Ni-MH Battery Pack): 9.6 V
Current Consumption: Squelched: 250 mA (Approx.)
Receive: 450 mA
Transmit: 2.2 A (HF/145 MHz), 2.5 A (430 MHz)
Case Size (W x H x D): 135 x 38 x 165 mm (5.31” x 1.5” x 6.50”)
Weight (Approx.): 1.17 kg (2.58 lb) w/Alkaline battery, antenna, w/o Microphone
TRANSMITTER
RF Power Output: 5 W (SSB/CW/FM), 1.5 W (AM Carrier) @13.8 V
Modulation Types: SSB: Balanced Modulator
AM: Early Stage (Low Level)
FM: Variable Reactance
FM Maximum Deviation: ±5 kHz (FM-N: ±2.5 kHz)
Spurious Radiation: –50 dB (1.8-29.7 MHz)
–60 dB (50/144/430 MHz)
Carrier Suppression: >40 dB
Opp. Sideband Supp.: >50 dB
SSB Frequency Response: 400 Hz-2600 Hz (–6 dB)
Microphone Impedance: 200-10k Ohms (Nominal: 600 Ohms)
2 FT-817ND Operating Manual
SPECIFICATIONS
RECEIVER
Circuit Type: Double-Conversion Superheterodyne
Intermediate Frequencies:1st: 68.33 MHz (SSB/CW/AM/FM); 10.7 MHz (WFM)
2nd: 455 kHz
Sensitivity: SSB/CW AM FM
100 kHz-500 kHz – – –
500 kHz-1.8 MHz – 32 μV–
1.8 MHz-28 MHz 0.25 μV2 μV–
28 MHz-30 MHz 0.25 μV2 μV 0.5 μV
50 MHz-54 MHz 0.2 μV2 μV 0.32 μV
144/430 MHz 0.125 μV – 0.2 μV
(IPO, ATT off, SSB/CW/AM = 10 dB S/N, FM = 12 dB SINAD)
Squelch Sensitivity: SSB/CW/AM FM
1.8 MHz-28 MHz 2.5 μV–
28 MHz-30 MHz 2.5 μV 0.32 μV
50 MHz-54 MHz 1 μV 0.2 μV
144/430 MHz 0.5 μV 0.16 μV
(IPO, ATT off)
Image Rejection: HF/50 MHz: 70 dB
144/430 MHz: 60 dB
IF Rejection: 60 dB
Selectivity (–6/–60 dB): SSB/CW: 2.2 kHz/4.5 kHz
AM: 6 kHz/20 kHz
FM: 15 kHz/30 kHz
FM-N: 9 kHz/25 kHz
SSB (optional YF-122S installed): 2.3 kHz/4.7 kHz (–66 dB)
CW (optional YF-122C installed): 500 Hz/2.0 kHz
CW (optional YF-122CN installed): 300 Hz/1.0 kHz
AF Output: 1.0 W (8 Ohms, 10% THD or less)
AF Output Impedance: 4-16 Ohms
Specifications are subject to change without notice, and are guaranteed within amateur
bands only.
Frequency ranges vary according to transceiver version; check with your dealer.
3FT-817ND Operating Manual
ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES
MH-31A8J Hand Microphone
FNB-85 Ni-MH Battery Pack (9.6 V, 1400 mAh)
NC-72B/C/U or PA-48C/U
FBA-28 Battery Case
YHA-63 Whip Antenna for (50/144/430 MHz)
E-DC-6 DC Cable
Shoulder Strap
Ferrite Core
Rubber Foot
FNB-85 Ni-MH Battery Pack (9.6 V, 1400 mAh)
FNB-72 Ni-Cd Battery Pack (9.6 V, 1000 mAh)
NC-72B/C/U or PA-48C/U
YF-122S Collins SSB Filter (2.3 kHz/4.7 kHz: –6 dB/–66 dB)
YF-122C Collins CW Filter (500 Hz/2 kHz: –6 dB/–60 dB)
YF-122CN Collins CW Filter (300 Hz/1 kHz: –6 dB/–60 dB)
TCXO-9 TCXO Unit (±0.5 ppm)
MH-36E8J DTMF Microphone
CT-62 CAT Interface Cable
CT-39A Packet Cable
Battery Charger
(holds 8 “AA” size Alkaline cells [not supplied])
Available Options
Battery Charger
:
“B” suffix is for use with 120 VAC, “C” suffix is for use with 230-240 VAC, and “U”
suffix is for use with 230 VAC.
4 FT-817ND Operating Manual
PLUG PINOUT
5FT-817ND Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
CONNECTING THE SUPPLIED YHA-63 ANTENNA
Your FT-817ND is supplied with a three-section antenna, model YHA-63 which is designed
for optimum performance on the 50 MHz, 144 MHz, and 430 MHz. It also works well on
the FM broadcast and other VHF bands. This antenna is intended for connection to the front
panel’s BNC-type antenna connector.
For HF and/or 50 MHz operation, most hikers carry their own dipole or collapsible vertical
antenna, fed by a small-diameter coaxial cable terminated in a type “M” (PL-259) plug, and
these kinds of antennas may be connected to the rear panel’s antenna connector.
The YHA-63 should be connected to the top panel’s “BNC” connector, using the following
guidelines:
For 144/430 MHz operation (only), connect the shorter cap section to the screw post on
the top of the main antenna shaft, then screw the assembled YHA-63 onto the BNC
connector, twisting it 1/4 turn clockwise to secure the antenna.
For 50 MHz operation, unscrew the
short cap section, and replace it with
the long cap section. The long cap
section will provide good results on
144/430 MHz, as well, but those
owners not using 50 MHz may prefer the shorter total length of the
YHA-63 when using the short cap
on 144/430 MHz.
For shortwave listening using a ran-
dom-length wire antenna for reception only, you may wish to consider
connection of the wire between the
main YHA-63 shaft and the cap,
using a “spade lug” or similar lug
on the end of the wire to provide a
secure connection between the cap
and the rest of the antenna.
Menu #07 (“
you to define which connector
(“Front” or “Rear”) is used on a
particular band. See page 60 for details.
ANTENNAANTENNA
ANTENNA”) allows
ANTENNAANTENNA
6 FT-817ND Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
CONNECTING THE MICROPHONE
To connect the microphone, plug its connector (latch side UP) into the MIC jack on the
right side of the transceiver. Press it
gently inward until you hear the
“click” of the latch.
To disconnect the microphone, press
gently on the “PUSH ” label on
top of the microphone connector’s rubber boot.
While pressing on this spot, gently pull the connector outward from the body of the transceiver.
Note: During “Digital” or “Packet” operation, it is not necessary to disconnect the microphone, as activation of the PTT line from the DATA connector automatically cuts off the
audio input from the MIC jack.
SHOULDER STRAP INSTALLATION
The convenient Shoulder Strap is designed for maximum comfort and security for your FT817ND transceiver.
Refer to the illustration, and connect the
shoulder strap to the attachment tabs just
behind the front panel of the FT-817ND.
Be sure to have the shoulder strap aligned
correctly, without twists in the straps.
A convenient microphone hanger is lo-
cated on one end of the padded top section of the Shoulder Strap. When not in
use, the microphone may be affixed here,
freeing both of your hands for other tasks.
RUBBER FOOT INSTALLATION
Four Rubber Feet are provided with your FT817ND, for ease of use when operating from a
base station or camp table.
Refer to the illustration, and affix the Rubber
Feet in the appropriate locations.
7FT-817ND Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
ALKALINE BATTERY INSTALLATION AND USE
The FT-817ND is supplied with the FBA-28 holder for Alkaline “AA” cells. A fresh set of
Alkaline cells should provide approximately 5.5 hours of reception under typical conditions.
1. To install or replace the AA cells, first remove the battery cover from the bottom side of
the transceiver. Slide the battery cover latch forward, as shown in the illustration, then
fold the battery cover upward and set it aside temporarily.
2. Install the Alkaline AA cells as shown in the illustration, paying particular attention to
the correct polarity of the batteries.
3. When all batteries have been successfully installed, replace the battery cover.
Important Notes
When the transceiver is to be stored for a long period of time without use (longer
than ten days), remove the batteries from the FBA-28 holder, to avoid the possibility of battery leaking causing damage to the transceiver. Inspect the FBA-28
battery holder occasionally for signs of corrosion or battery leakage, and remove
the batteries immediately if any such damage is observed.
The FBA-28 battery holder is designed for use solely with Alkaline type “AA”
cells. Do not attempt to use Ni-Cd or other rechargeable cells in the FBA-28,
because it does not contain the protection circuitry required when using rechargeable cells.
When replacing batteries, replace all eight AA cells simultaneously with fresh
batteries.
When the battery voltage is approaching the value which indicates depletion is
near, the small “ ” will blink, indicating it is time to replace the batteries.
8 FT-817ND Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
EXTERNAL POWER CONNECTIONS
The FT-817ND may be connected to an external 13.8 Volt DC power source providing at
least 3 Amps of continuous-duty current.. The supplied E-DC-6 DC cable may be used for
DC connections.
While connected to an external DC source, if you have installed the supplied FNB-85 NiMH Battery Pack, the E-DC-6 connection to the external DC power source will allow
operation of the FT-817ND while charging of the FNB-85 is in progress.
When making DC power connections, be absolutely certain to follow the markings on the
E-DC-6 so as to ensure proper polarity of the connection to the power supply. Connect the
RED AND BLACK or WHITE AND BLACK wire to the Positive (+) power supply terminal, and
connect the SOLID BLACK wire to the Negative (-) power supply terminal.
Notice
Be extremely careful when making power supply connections. Use only a 13.8 Volt
DC Supply, and carefully observe the proper electrical polarity. Serious damage
may result if these precautions are not observed.
The Limited Warranty on this product does not cover damage caused by improper
power supply connections, or improper power supply voltage.
9FT-817ND Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
FNB-85 NI-MH BATTER Y PACK INSTALLATION AND USE
The supplied FNB-85 Ni-MH Battery Pack provides 9.6 Volts of DC power for your FT817ND, with a maximum capacity of 1400 mAh.
Installation
1. To install the FNB-85 Ni-MH Battery Pack, first remove the battery compartment cover,
as described previously.
2. Lift out the FBA-28 battery holder, and disconnect the short cable connected to the
FBA-28, as shown in the illustration.
3. Connect the short cable to the mating connector on the FNB-85, and install the FNB-
85 in the battery compartment.
4. Replace the battery compartment cover.
FNB-85
FBA-28
10 FT-817ND Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
FNB-85 NI-MH BATTER Y PACK INSTALLATION AND USE
Charging
Charging of the FNB-85 requires the use of either the supplied battery charger (NC-72B/
C or PA-48C/U), or an external 13.8 Volt (±15%) DC source. If the battery charger is used,
the FT-817ND must be turned off during charging; if an external 13.8 Volt DC source is
used (connected via the supplied E-DC-6 cable), then you may operate the FT-817ND while
charging is in progress.
1. Turn the FT-817ND off (see page 18), then connect the supplied battery charger DC
connector to the INPUT: 13.8V jack on the rear panel of the FT-817ND.
2. Plug the battery charger into the nearest AC wall outlet.
3. Press the FT-817ND’s switch for one second to turn the transceiver on.
4. Press the key momentarily.
[
CHGCHG
VLTVLT
5. Rotate the knob so that the function row containing “
on the display.
[
6. Press the key to select the
regular frequency display).
7. Turn the FT-817ND off. The display will indicate “
RMNRMN
RMN” and remaining time to indicate the time remaining before
RMNRMN
a full charge is achieved on the FNB-85.
Important Note
The NC-72/PA-48 are not designed to power the transceiver for operation (reception
or transmission).
Please be advised that the NC-72/PA-48 may contribute noise to TV and radio recep-
tion in the immediate vicinity, so we do not recommend its use adjacent to such devices.
CHGCHG
CHG] option (the display will immediately revert to the
CHGCHG
CHG TIMECHG TIME
CHG TIME
CHG TIMECHG TIME
CHG,
CHGCHG
DSPDSP
VLT,
DSP]” appears
VLTVLT
DSPDSP
Important Notice
For Charging the optional FNB-72 Ni-Cd Battery Pack
If you wish to charge the optional FNB-72 Ni-Cd Battery Pack using the supplied
NC-72B/C or PA-48C/U Battery Charger, you must set the Battery Charging Time
to “6 Hours” (use for NC-72B/C) or “8 Hours” (use for PA-48C/U) via Menu #11,
to prevent over charging the battery. See page 61 for detail.
11FT-817ND Operating Manual
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
PWR Switch
Press and hold in the switch for one second to turn to the transceiver on or off.
AF Knob
The (inner) knob adjusts the receiver audio volume level presented to the internal or external speaker. Clockwise rotation increases the volume level.
SQL/RF Knob
In the USA version, this (outer) knob adjusts the gain of the receiver’s RF
and IF stages. Using Menu Selection 45, this control may be changed to function as a
Squelch control, which may be used to silence background noise when no signal is
present. In the other versions, its default setting is set to “Squelch.”
LOCK Key
Pressing this key locks the front panel keys so as to prevent accidental frequency change.
V/M Key
Pressing this key switches frequency control between the VFO and Memory Systems.
TRANSMIT/BUSY Indicator
This LED glows green when the squelch opens, and turns red during transmit.
MAIN Dial
This is the main tuning dial for the transceiver. It is used both for frequency tuning as
well as “Menu” setting in the transceiver.
F Key
Pressing this key momentarily changes the display to show the operating functions
available via the , , keys.
Press and hold this key for one second to activate the “Menu” mode.
12 FT-817ND Operating Manual
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
FUNC Keys
These three keys select many of the most important operating features of the transceiver. When pressing the key, the current function of that key appears above each
of the , , keys (along the bottom of the LCD); rotating the knob
scrolls the display through eleven rows of functions available for use via the ,
, keys.
The available features are shown in chart on the next page.
Key
)
Key
BAND(DWN)/BAND(UP
Pressing either of these keys momentarily will cause the frequency to be moved up or
down by one frequency band. The selections available are:
Recalling the 5 MHz band (U.S. model) requires different procedure. See page 22 for
details.
MODE
Pressing either of these keys momentarily will change the operating mode. The selections available are:
()
/MODE
()
HOME Key
Pressing this key momentarily recalls a favorite “HOME” frequency memory.
SEL Knob
This detented rotary switch is used for tuning, memory selection, and function selection for the , , keys of the transceiver.
CLAR Key
Press this key momentarily to activate the Receiver Clarifier feature. When this feature
is activated, the knob may be used to set a tuning offset of up to ±9.99 kHz. The
transmitter’s frequency is not affected by the setting of the Clarifier.
Press and hold this key for 1/2 second to activate the IF Shift feature, which allows you
to use the knob to adjust the center frequency of the IF filter’s passband response.
ANT Jack
Connect the supplied 50/144/430 MHz rubber flex antenna (or another antenna presenting a 50Ω impedance) to this BNC connector.
In its default setting, this jack does not function on the HF bands. If you want to enable
this jack on the HF bands, recall and change the setting of Menu #07.
13FT-817ND Operating Manual
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
Key Key
1
Press the key to switch
between VFO-A and VFO-B
on the display.
2
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to transfer the
contents of the VFO into a
Memory register.
3
Press the key to store the
contents of the VFO into the
QMB (Quick Memory Bank)
register.
4
Press the key to select
the direction of the uplink frequency shift (“–,” “+,” or Simplex) during FM repeater operation.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#42 (for setting the shift frequency offset).
5
Press the key to initiate
scanning (in the direction of
higher frequencies).
6
Press the key to activate
the Spectrum Scope Monitor
feature.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#43 (for selecting the SSM
sweep mode).
7
Press the key to bypass
the receiver preamplifier,
thereby activating Intercept
Point Optimization for improved overload characteristics.
The IPO feature does not
function on 144/430 MHz.
A/B
MW
STO
RPT
SCN
SSM
IPO
Press and hold in the key
A=B
for ½ second to copy the contents of VFO-A into the VFOB register, so that the two
VFOs’ contents will be identical.
MC
Press the key to designate the current Memory
channel to be “skipped” during scanning.
RCL
Press the key to recall
the QMB Memory.
REV
Press the key to reverse
the transmit and receive frequencies while working
through a repeater.
PRI
Press the key to activate
the Priority Scan feature.
SCH
Press the key to activate
Smart SearchTM operation.
ATT
Press the key to engage
the receiver front-end attenuator, which will reduce all signals and noise by approximately 10 dB.
The ATT feature does not
function on 144/430 MHz.
Press the key to activate
Split frequency operation between VFO-A and VFO-B.
Press the key to select
the display type (Frequency or
Alpha-numeric Tag) during
Memory operation.
Press the key to activate
the Programmable Memory
Scan feature.
Press the key to activate
CTCSS or DCS operation.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#48 (for selecting the CTCSS
tone frequency).
Press the key to activate
the Dual Watch system.
Press the key to initiate
the Auto-Range Transponder
mode.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#09 (for selecting the ARTS
“Beep” option).
Press the key to activate
the “Narrow” filter mode in the
CW (optional YF-122C or YF-
122CN required) mode. On
the FM mode, it also selects
the low-deviation mode required for HF FM operation on
29 MHz.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#38 (to Enable/Disable the
optional filter during installation).
SPL
TAG
PMS
TON
DW
ART
NAR
14 FT-817ND Operating Manual
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
Key Key Key
8
Press the key to activate
the receiver’s IF Noise
Blanker.
9
Press the key to select
the transmitter power output
level (LOW 1, LOW 2, LOW 3, or
HIGH).
10
Press the key to enable
the VOX (voice-operated
transmitter switching system)
in the SSB, AM, and FM
modes.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#51 (for setting the VOX Gain
level).
11
Press the key to initiate
Battery Charging.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#11 (for selecting the Charging period).
12
Press the key to initiate
Tone Search.
NB
Press the key to select
the recovery time (FAST, SLOW,
AUTO, or OFF) for the receiver’s
AGC system.
PWR
Press the key to select
the display function of the
meter in the transmit mode
(Power, ALC, SWR, or MOD
indication).
VOX
Press the key to activate
CW “Semi” Break-in operation.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#17 (for setting the CW Delay
time). At a setting of 10 ms,
operation emulates full QSK
performance.
CHG
Press the key to display
the current battery voltage.
TCH
Press the key to initiate
DCS Search.
*The Operating Function number in this column does not appear on the LCD.
AGC
MTR
BK
VLT
DCH
–
No function
–
No function
KYR
Press the key to activate
the built-in Electronic Keyer.
Press and hold in the key
for 1/2 second to recall Menu
#21 (for setting the Keyer
speed).
DSP
Press the key to switch
the display between the Large
Character and Small Character modes.
–
No function
Display Icons
15FT-817ND Operating Manual
SIDE PANEL SWITCH & C ONNECTORS
MIC Jack
Connect the supplied MH-31A8J Hand Microphone to this jack.
SP/PH Jack
This 3.5-mm, 2-pin jack provides variable audio output for an external speaker (4 Ω ~
16 Ω impedance) or earphones. The audio level varies according to the setting of the
front panel’s knob.
When you insert an earphone plug into this jack, the SP-PH slide switch (located to the right side of this jack) MUST BE set to the “PH” position, to pre-
vent the possibility of injury to your ears.
SP-PH Switch
If you use earphones with this transceiver, move this switch to the “PH” position before inserting the earphone plug into the SP/PH Jack, to prevent injury your ears.
16 FT-817ND Operating Manual
REAR PANEL CONNECTORS
INPUT:13.8V Jack
This is the DC power supply connection for the transceiver, used when operating the
transceiver with an external power supply. Use the supplied DC cable to connect this
jack to the car battery or base station DC power supply, which must be capable of
supplying at least 3A @ 8 ~ 16 VDC. This jack is also used for battery charging (when
using the supplied FNB-85 battery pack).
( )
GND Terminal
For best performance and safety, this Ground lug may be connected to a good earth
ground using a short, heavy, braided cable.
KEY Jack
This 3.5-mm, 3-pin jack is used for connection to a CW keyer paddle or a straight key.
DA TA Jack
This 6-pin, mini-DIN jack accepts AFSK input from a Terminal Node Controller (TNC);
it also provides fixed-level Receiver Audio Output, Push-To-Talk (PTT), Squelch Status, and ground lines.
ACC Jack
This 8-pin, mini-DIN jack provides a closure to ground during transmission, ALC, a
transmitter-inhibit pin, and “band data” for connection to an external amplifier. It is
also used for Transceiver-to Transceiver Cloning and for control of this transceiver
using a personal computer.
ANT Jack
Connect your HF and/or 50 MHz antenna’s 50 Ω coaxial cable to this M-type (“SO-
239”) connector.
In its default setting, this jack does not function on 50/144/430 MHz bands. If you want to
enable this jack on 50/144/430 MHz bands, recall and change the settings of Menu #07.
17FT-817ND Operating Manual
OPERATION
Hi! I’m R.F. Radio, and I’m here to guide you through the fine points of the setup
and use of your new FT-817ND. I know your anxious to get on the air, but I
encourage you to read the “Operation” section of this manual as thoroughly as possible,
so you’ll get the most out of this fantastic new rig. Now. . .let’s get operating!
TURNING THE TRANSCEIVER ON AND OFF
1. To turn the transceiver on, press and hold in
the switch for one second.
2. To turn the transceiver off, again press and
hold in the switch for one second.
The one-second delay helps you avoid ac-
cidental switching on (or off) of DC power.
SUPPLY VOLTAGE DISPLAY
When you turn on the transceiver, the DC supply voltage is indicated in the upper right corner of the LCD for two seconds. After
this interval, the display will resume its normal indication of the
operating mode (VFOa, VFOb, or Memory Channel Number).
To view the supply voltage at any time during operation:
1. Press the key momentarily, then rotate the knob to select Operating Function
[
CHGCHG
VLTVLT
Row 11*
2. Press the
corner of the LCD.
3. To cancel the supply voltage display, again press the
If you have not operated your FT-817ND within the past week, we recommend that you
plug in the Battery Charger, and perform an 8 hour (use for NC-72B/C) or 10 hour (use
for PA-48C/U) charge cycle, to ensure that the FNB-85 is ready for operation when
you are.
CHG,
CHGCHG
Remember, the Operating Row Number does not appear on the display.
DSPDSP
VLT,
DSP] on the display.
VLTVLT
DSPDSP
(
VLTVLT
VLT) key momentarily to display the supply voltage in the upper right
VLTVLT
(
VLTVLT
VLT) key.
VLTVLT
18 FT-817ND Operating Manual
OPERATION
OPERA TING BAND SELECTION
This transceiver covers an incredibly wide frequency range, over which a number of different
operating modes are used. Therefore, this
transceiver’s frequency coverage has been divided into different operating bands, each of with
has its own pre-set channel steps and operating
modes. You can change the channel steps and operating mode once you get started, of
course, per the next section.
To change the frequency band, press either the or key to move
to the next lower or higher operating band, respectively.
1) Recalling the 5 MHz band (U.S. model) requires different procedure. See page
22 for details.
2) VFOa and VFOb are independent VFOs, so they may be set to different bands. See the
“Stacked VFO System” discussion on page 21 for details.
MODE SELECTION
Press either the or key to
move among the eight settings for the operating
modes, respectively.
You can also set VFOa and VFOb to different modes in the same band, allowing
you to have a “Phone” VFO and a “CW” VFO, for example.
ADJUSTING THE AUDIO VOLUME LEVEL
Rotate the knob to set a comfortable listening level.
When operating in the “DIG” or “PKT” modes,
you may set the knob to any comfortable
setting, or even all the way off, because the out-
put from the DATA jack is a fixed-level audio signal.
Start with the knob set fully counter-clockwise, especially when using FM
(the background noise on FM can be surprisingly loud)!
19FT-817ND Operating Manual
OPERATION
MENU QUICK START
Many aspects of this transceiver’s configuration may be customized using the convenient
“Menu” system, which allow you to configure many “set and forget” settings just the way
you want to. A full discussion of the Menu system beings on page 58; for now, here is a
brief discussion on how to change Menu settings:
1. Press and hold in the key for one second to enter the Menu mode.
2. Rotate the knob to recall the Menu item to be changed (for example, Menu #01,
which Enables or Disables the Automatic Repeater Shift on the 144 MHz band).
3. Rotate the knob to set this feature (in this example, the default setting is “
ABLEABLE
ABLE,” so rotate the knob to set this feature to “
ABLEABLE
4. Press and hold in the key for one second to save the new setting and exit to normal
operation.
If you have momentarily pressed the key to change an operating function,
press the key momentarily again (to clear the function indications for the
, , keys) before engaging the Menu.
DISABLEDISABLE
DISABLE.”
DISABLEDISABLE
ADJUSTING THE RF GAIN AND SQUELCH
The control is configured differently,
depending on the country to which the FT-
817ND has been exported. In the U.S. version,
the default function of this control is “RF Gain.”
The configuration of the control is set
via Menu #45; see page 67 for details.
If your transceiver is configured for “RF Gain” use, rotating this control fully clockwise in
the SSB/CW/Digital modes will provide best sensitivity. To reduce the receiver’s RF Gain
somewhat, rotate this control counter-clockwise slightly. You will observe an increasing
number of bars on the S-meter as you rotate the control counter-clockwise; this
indicates increasing AGC voltage, which is causing the front-end gain to be reduced. In the
FM and Packet modes, this control will automatically be set to an “Auto-Squelch” mode,
wherein the FM/Packet squelch threshold is pre-set at the factory; the control still
acts as an “RF Gain” control, however, and it normally should be set fully clockwise.
If this control is configured for “SQL” operation, the FT-817ND’s RF Gain will be set for
maximum sensitivity in all modes, and the control will function solely as a Squelch
control. In this case, rotate the control to the point where the background noise is
just silenced; this will provide the best sensitivity to weak signals, while keeping the receiver quiet when no signal is received. The LED just above the Main Dial will glow Green
when the squelch is opened by an incoming signal or noise.
Battery consumption is significantly reduced if the receiver is squelched, as the
audio amplifier stage is shut off when the receiver is muted.
EN-EN-
EN-
EN-EN-
20 FT-817ND Operating Manual
OPERATION
SETTING THE OPERATING FREQUENCY
1. In the “SSB/CW/DIG” modes, rotate the
knob to set the frequency. Clockwise
rotation of the knob increases the operating frequency.
2. In the “AM/FM/PKT” modes, rotate the
knob to set the frequency. Clockwise rotation of the knob increases the operating
frequency.
3. You may also use the knob to adjust the operating frequency in the “SSB/CW/
DIG” modes. The knob provides faster tuning, ideal for making quick changes in
frequency when you want to move across the band in a hurry. You can then use the
knob to make fine frequency adjustments.
4. If you press the knob momentarily, then rotate the knob, you can now
change the operating frequency in 1 MHz steps, allowing very quick frequency excursions. This can be particularly helpful on the VHF and UHF bands.
5. In step 2 above, it was mentioned that tuning in the “AM/FM/PKT” modes is accom-
plished using the knob. By default, the knob is disabled in these modes; if
you wish to enable the knob in these modes, use Menu #04; see page 60.
6. The synthesizer steps for the knob may be adjusted independently by mode. Use
Menu #06 for AM, #30 for FM, and #47 for SSB/CW/Digital. See pages 60, 64, and 67
for details.
The main knob synthesizer’s tuning rate (the number of steps per rotation
of the knob) can be adjusted using Menu #33. See page 65 for details.
STACKED VFO S YSTEM
1. Press the key momentarily, then rotate the knob, as needed, until Operating
[
AA
BB
A=BA=B
Function Row 1
2. Now press the
such VFOs provided on each Amateur band, so you may set VFO-A to the CW subband, and VFO-B to the SSB sub-band, if you like. The operating mode will be preserved, along with the frequency information, on each VFO.
A/
AA
B,
BB
(
AA
A/
AA
SPLSPL
A=B,
SPL] appears on the display.
A=BA=B
SPLSPL
)
BB
B
key to toggle between the “A” and “B” VFOs. There are two
BB
21FT-817ND Operating Manual
OPERATION
OPERATION ON 5 MHZ BAND (U.S. VERSION ONL Y
)
The FT-817ND includes the capability for transmission and reception on the five spot frequen-
cies assigned to the Amateur Service in the United States. To operate on the 5 MHz band:
1. Press the key once to enter the
“Memory” mode (a memory channel number
M-M-
nnnnnn
“
M-
nnn
” will appear on the display in the
M-M-
nnnnnn
space previously occupied by “
VFObVFOb
“
VFOb”).
VFObVFOb
VFOaVFOa
VFOa” or
VFOaVFOa
2. Rotate the knob to select the desired
channel (“
M-601M-601
M-601” through “
M-601M-601
M-605M-605
M-605”), at the factory, with the
M-605M-605
L
E
S
CLAR
SEL
V/M
F
V
M
LOCK
PWR
SQL/RF
F
A
permitted frequencies in the 5 MHz band.
If you have partitioned your memory channels into Memory
[
Groups via Menu #34, the memory channel numbers for 60-
l-l-
meter operation will be displayed as “
001001
l-
001” ~ “
l-l-
001001
l-l-
005005
l-
005.” See
l-l-
005005
Memory Group “OFF”
page 46 for details regarding Memory Group operation, and
page 65 for details regarding Menu #34.
3. Pressing the or key momentarily,
[
Memory Group “ON”
switches the operating mode between SSB and CW.
4. To exit from 60-meter operatin and return to the VFO mode,
just press the key (the memory channel number will be
replaced by “
VFOaVFOa
VFOa” or “
VFOaVFOa
VFObVFOb
VFOb”).
VFObVFOb
The frequencies and operating mode for 5 MHz band op-
CH No.
M-M-
M-
M-MM-M-
M-
M-MM-M-
M-
M-MM-M-
M-
M-MM-M-
M-
M-M-
601601
601
601601
602602
602
602602
603603
603
603603
604604
604
604604
605605
605
605605
FREQUENCY
5.3320 MHz
5.3480 MHz
5.3585 MHz
5.3730 MHz
5.4050 MHz
eration are both fixed, and may not be changed.
]
]
PSK Operation on 5 MHz Band
1. Press the key once, if necessary, to enter the “Memory” mode.
2. Rotate the knob to select the desired channel (“
M-601M-601
M-601” through “
M-601M-601
M-605M-605
M-605”),
M-605M-605
at the factory, with the permitted frequencies in the 5 MHz band.
3. Press the or key to select the SSB mode.
4. When the “transmit” command is received from the TNC, the FT-817ND trans-
mitter will be engaged. The microphone input is disabled automatically when
transmitting the PSK signal.
Likewise, the TNC “receive” command will cause the radio to revert to the receive mode.
You can adjust DATA input level using Menu #25 [DIG MIC].
During PSK operation via the rear panel DATA jack, the front panel MIC
jack is cut off, so you won’t have a “live microphone” problem during data operation.
Set the PSK sub carrier frequency of the TNC to 1.5 kHz.
22 FT-817ND Operating Manual
RECEIVER ACCESSORIES
CLARIFIER (RECEIVER INCREMENTAL TUNING
The Clarifier (RIT) allows you to set an offset of up to ±9.99 kHz of the receive frequency
relative to your transmit frequency. To achieve a wider offset than this, you may use the
“Split” operating mode, described later.
1. Press the switch momentarily to activate
the Clarifier function.
2. Turn the knob, which allows the re-
ceiver frequency to be varied over a range of
9.99 kHz.
3. When the receiving frequency is higher than
transmit frequency, the “ ” icon will appear at the right of the
frequency display. Similarly, when the receiving frequency is
lower than transmit frequency, the “ ” icon will appear at the
right of the frequency display.
4. When the receiving frequency is equal to transmit frequency
(Clarifier offset is zero) while the Clarifier is activated, the “ ”
icon will appear at the right of the frequency display.
5. To turn the Clarifier off, again press the switch momen-
tarily. When you turn the Clarifier back on, the offset previously stored will still be applied.
6. To reset the Clarifier offset to zero, turn the Clarifier off, then
turn the knob by any amount. The Clarifier will reset to
zero after the first “step” of the knob.
)
[
TX<RX
[
TX>RX
[
TX=RX
]
]
]
If you leave the Clarifier on, moving the knob will not cause the offset to be
cancelled.
23FT-817ND Operating Manual
RECEIVER ACCESSORIES
IF SHIFT
The receiver’s IF SHIFT feature is an effective interference-reduction tool, which allows
you to shift the passband response higher or lower without changing the pitch of the incoming signal.
1. Press the switch for one second to activate the IF SHIFT feature. A “ ”, “ ,” or
“ ” icon will appear at the right of the frequency display to indicate the IF SHIFT’s
current position.
2. Rotate the knob, as needed, to reduce
or eliminate the interference.
3. To turn the IF SHIFT feature off, again press the switch
for one second. The last setting of the IF SHIFT control will be
retained until you change it again.
4. If you wish to make a more permanent shift in the receiver’s IF
passband, use Menu #54 (
Menu.” This allows you to set up a higher or lower listening
pitch, if you prefer such as compared to the default passband
response. See page 68.
Engaging of the IF Shift feature does not disable the setting of the Clarifier control. With the IF Shift activated,
press the switch momentarily to switch to Clarifier operation.
LSBLSB
LSB) or #55 (
LSBLSB
USBUSB
USB) in the “Extended
USBUSB
24 FT-817ND Operating Manual
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