Yaesu FT-8900R User Manual
QUAD BAND FM TRANSCEIVER
FT-8900R
OPERATING MANUAL
Contents
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 ......................................... 8
Transceiver Installation .............................. 8
Mobile Power Connections ........................ 9
Mobile Speakers......................................... 9
YSK-8900 Separation Kit Installation ..... 10
Base Station Installation ............................... 12
AC Power Supplies .................................. 12
Packet Radio Terminal Node Controller.. 12
Front Panel Controls & Switches.................. 14
LCD.................................................................. 18
Rear Panel Connections ................................. 19
MH-48
A6J Microphone.................................... 20
MH-42
B6JS Microphone .................................. 21
Basic Operation .............................................. 22
Turning the Transceiver On and Off ............ 22
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level ............. 22
Adjusting the Squelch Setting ...................... 22
Selecting the Operating Band....................... 22
Selecting the Frequency Band...................... 23
Frequency Navigation .................................. 24
Tuning Dial .............................................. 24
Direct Keypad Frequency Entry .............. 24
Scannig..................................................... 24
Transmission ................................................ 25
Changing the Transmitter Power Level ... 25
Advanced Operation ...................................... 26
Lock Feature................................................. 26
Keyboard Beeper.......................................... 26
Channel Step Selection ................................ 26
Display Brightness ....................................... 27
Band Linking................................................ 27
Audio Muting ............................................... 28
RF Squelch ................................................... 28
Repeater Operation ........................................ 29
Repeater Shifts ............................................. 29
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS).................. 29
Manual Repeater Shift Activation ................ 30
Changing the Default Repeater Shift ....... 30
CTCSS/DCS Operation.................................. 31
CTCSS Operation......................................... 31
DCS Operation ............................................. 32
Tone Search Scanning .................................. 33
Memory Operation ......................................... 34
Regular Memory Channel Operation ........... 34
Memory Storage....................................... 34
Memory Recall......................................... 36
Memory Offset Tuning ................... 36
Deleting Memories................................... 36
HOME Channel Memory ......................... 37
Memory Only Mode................................. 37
Hyper Memory Mode ................................... 38
Hyper Memory Storage............................ 38
Hyper Memory Recall.............................. 38
Scanning .......................................................... 39
Setting the Scan-Resume Technique ............ 39
VFO Scanning .............................................. 40
Memory Scanning ........................................ 41
How to Skip
(Omit)
a Channel
During Memory Scan Operation ..... 41
Preferential Memory Scan ....................... 42
Programmable
“Priority Channel” Scanning
(Band Limit)
Memory Scan ... 43
(Dual Watch)
... 44
Smart Search................................................... 45
TM
ARTS
: Auto Range Transponder System .... 46
Basic ARTS Setup and Operation ................ 46
CW Identifier Setup ..................................... 47
DTMF Autodialer Operation ........................ 48
Internet Connection Feature ......................... 50
Miscellaneous Settings.................................... 52
Time-Out Timer ........................................... 52
Automatic Power Off ................................... 52
Programming the Key Assignment .............. 53
FM Bandwith & MIC Gain Control ............. 54
DCS Code Inversionm ................................. 55
Cross Band Repeater Operation ................... 56
Reset Procedure .............................................. 57
Cloning ............................................................ 58
Menu (“Set”) Mode ........................................ 60
INTRODUCTION
1
2
SQL SQL
VOL VOL
3
LOW
V/M
HM
KEY2
HM
V/M
SCN
LOW
4
5
PWR
6
SCN
The FT-8900R is a ruggedly-built, high quality Quad Band FM transceiver providing 50
Watts of power output on the 29/50/144 MHz Amateur bands and 35 Watts on the 430 MHz
band.
The high power output of the FT-8900R is produced by its RD70HVF1 Power MOS FET
amplifier, with a direct-flow heat sink and thermostatically-controlled cooling fan maintaining a safe temperature for the transceiver’s circuitry.
Featuring 809 memory channels, full duplex operation with independent Volume and Squelch
controls, and built-in CTCSS and DCS encoder/decoder circuits, the FT-8900R includes
provision for remote-head mounting, utilizing the YSK-8900 Separation Kit, which allows
installation evening the most compact of cars.
We recommend that you read this manual in its entirety, so as to understand fully the many
features of your new FT-8900R transceiver.
1FT-8900R Operating Manual
SPECIFICATIONS
GENERAL
Frequency Range: RX: 28.000 - 29.700 MHz, 50.000 - 54.000 MHz,
108.000 - 180.000 MHz, 320.000 - 480.000 MHz,
700 - 985 MHz (Cellular Blocked)
TX: 28.000 - 29.700 MHz, 50.000 - 54.000 MHz,
144.000 - 146.000 MHz (or 144.000 - 148.000 MHz),
430.000 - 440.000 MHz (or 430.00 - 450.000 MHz)
Channel Steps: 5/10/12.5/15/20/25/50 kHz
Modes of Emission: F3, F2, F1
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ohms, unbalanced (Antenna Duplexer built-in)
Frequency Stability: ±5 ppm @ 14° F ~ +140° F (–10 °C ~ +60 °C)
Operating Temperature Range: –4° F ~ +140° F (–20 °C ~ +60 °C)
Supply Voltage: 13.8 VDC (±15%), negative ground
Current Consumption (Approx.):RX: 0.5 A (Squelched)
TX: 8.0 A (50/430 MHz), 8.5 A (29/144 MHz)
Case Size (W x H x D): 5.5” x 1.6” x 6.6” (140 x 41.5 x 168 mm)
(w/o knobs & connectors)
Weight (Approx.): 2.2 lb (1 kg)
TRANSMITTER
Output Power: 50/20/10/5 W (29/50/144 MHz),
35/20/10/5 W (430 MHz)
Modulation Type: Variable Reactance
Maximum Deviation: ±5 kHz
Spurious Radiation: Better than –60 dB (29 MHz: Better than –50 dB)
Modulation Distortion: Less than 3%
Microphone Impedance: 2 k
DATA Jack Impedance: 10 k
RECEIVER
Circuit Type: Double-conversion superheterodyne
Intermediate Frequencies: 45.05 MHz/450 kHz (Left band),
47.25 MHz/450 kHz (Right band)
Sensitivity (for 12dB SINAD): Better than 0.2 μV
Squelch Sensitivity: Better than 0.16 μV
Selectivity (–6dB/–60dB): 12 kHz/30 kHz
Maximum AF Output: 2 W @ 8 for 5% THD
AF Output Impedance: 4-16
Specifications are subject to change without notice, and are guaranteed within the 29, 50,
144, and 430 MHz amateur bands only. Frequency ranges will vary according to transceiver version; check with your dealer.
2 FT-8900R Operating Manual
ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES
Microphone MH-48A6J ...................................................................................................... 1
Mobile Mounting Bracket MMB-36.................................................................................. 1
Separation Kit YSK-8900 ................................................................................................. 1
DC Power Cord w/Fuse (T9021715) ................................................................................. 1
Spare Fuse 15 A (Q0000081) ............................................................................................. 2
Operating Manual ............................................................................................................... 1
Warranty Card .................................................................................................................... 1
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
MH-48A6J DTMF Microphone
MH-42B6JS Hand Microphone
MEK-2 Microphone Extension Kit
MLS-100 High-Power External Speaker
FP-1023 AC Power Supply (25A: USA only)
FP-1030A AC Power Supply (25A)
CT-39A Packet Interface Cable
Availability of accessories may vary. Some accessories are supplied as standard per local
requir ements, while others may be unavailable in some regions. Consult your Yaesu dealer
for details regarding these and any newly-available options Connection of any non-Yaesuapproved accessory, should it cause damage, may void the Limited Warranty on this apparatus.
1
1
2
1: If you replace the microphone from the MH-48A6J to MH-42B6JS or vice versa, per-
form Menu #23 (
2: When using the MH-48A6J or MH-42B6JS microphone in conjunction with the MEK-
2, in some cases, the [P1
MICMIC
MIC). See page 65 for details.
MICMIC
]
through
[P4]
functions may operate erratically.
3FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
This chapter describes the installation procedure for integrating the FT-8900R into a typi-
cal amateur radio station. It is presumed that you possess technical knowledge and conceptual understanding consistent with your status as a licensed radio amateur. Please take some
extra time to make certain that the important safety 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-8900R.
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-8900R.
Avoid heating vents and window locations that could expose the transceiver to excessive
direct sunlight, especially in hot climates. The FT-8900R should not be used in an environ-
ment where the ambient temperature exceeds +140° F (+60° C).
4 FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
SAFETY INFORMA TION
The FT-8900R 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.
5FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
ANTENNA CONSIDERATIONS
The FT-8900R 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 magnetic-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 polarization 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 Cubical
Quad).
Note that this transceiver is designed with wide frequency coverage in the VHF/UHF spectrum. For general listening, you may wish to have a broadband antenna such as a discone
available, as a directional antenna such as a Yagi will have degraded performance outside
the Amateur band for which it is designed.
Excellent reference texts and computer software are available for the design and optimization of VHF and UHF 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-8900R 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-meterlong (25’) coaxial line with 1/2 dB of loss at 29 MHz may have a loss of 6 dB or more at 446
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).
6 FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
ANTENNA CONSIDERATIONS
For reference, the chart below shows approximate loss figures for typically-available coaxial cables frequently used in VHF/UHF installations.
Loss in dB per 30 m (100 feet) for Selected 50-Ohm Coaxial Cables
(Assumes 50-ohm Input/Output Terminations)
CABLE TYPE
RG-58A
RG-58 Foam
RG-213
RG-8 Foam
Belden 9913
Times Microwave LMR-400
7/8” “Hardline”
Loss figures are approximate; consult cable manufacturers’ catalogs for
complete specifications.
In outdoor installations, be certain to weatherproof all connectors thoroughly, as water
entering a coaxial cable will cause losses to escalate rapidly, thus diminishing your communications 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-8900R.
LOSS: 144 MHZ
6.5
4.7
3.0
2.0
1.5
1.5
0.7
LOSS: 430 MHZ
> 10
8
5.9
3.7
2.9
2.6
1.3
7FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
MOBILE INSTALLATION
The FT-8900R 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 mechanically). 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.
Transceiver Installation
Choose a mounting location with sufficient clearance for the transceiver. Using the
mounting bracket as a template for the mounting holes, use a 4.8 mm (3/16”) bit to drill
the mounting holes, and secure the mounting bracket with the supplied screws, washers,
and nuts (see diagram).
Position the transceiver in the bracket so that the holes in the side are aligned with those
in the bracket, and bolt the transceiver into place using the supplied short screws and
flat washers.
8 FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
MOBILE INSTALLATION
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-8900R, nor DC voltage greater
than 15.8 Volts. When replacing the fuse, only use a 15-A fast-blow type. 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.
FT-8900R
Cabin Engine Room
RED: Positive (+)
BLACK: Negative (–)
Battery
Mobile Speakers
The optional MSL-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-8900R, if they present the specified 8-
Ohm impedance and are capable of handling the 2 Watts of audio output supplied by the
FT-8900R.
9FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
MOBILE INSTALLATION
YSK-8900 Separation Kit Installation
This kit allows the main body of the FT-8900R transceiver to be installed in the trunk, or
anywhere else out of the way, while the Front Panel is mounted on the dashboard.
A choice of Front Panel mounting methods allows easy unit removal and taking the unit
with you when leaving the vehicle.
1. Disconnect the DC power cable from the
transceiver.
2. Referring to Figure 1, slightly pry open
the latch on the left side of the transceiver and then slide the panel outward
and away from the transceiver. Disconnect the connection cable which is connected between the transceiver body and
its front panel.
3. Mount the main body on the FT-8900R
in the trunk or some other out-of-the-
way location, using the MMB-36
mounting bracket.
4. Referring to Figure 2, insert the plug of
the Controller Extension Cable into the
corresponding jack on the FT-8900R.
5. Referring to Figures 3~5, mount the
Front Panel nest in the desired location.
Figure 1
Figure 2
CAUTION ! Do not the mount the
Front Panel where it
might be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time, nor where
temperatures might exceed 140°F (60°C).
Controller Extension Cable
Mount the mounting
nest with these slits
facing upward.
Spring Washer
Figure 3
Self-tapping screw
Flat Washer
10 FT-8900R Operating Manual
MOBILE INSTALLATION
6. Referring to Figure 6, insert the plug of
the Controller Extension Cable into the
corresponding jack on the Front Panel.
7. To install the Front Panel into the Mounting Nest, align the mounting lugs on the
left side of the Mounting Nest with the
corresponding slots in the Front Panel,
then insert the Front Panel into the
Mounting Nest, as shown in Figure 7.
8. To remove the Front Panel from the
Mounting Nest, slightly pry open the
latch on the left side of the Mounting
Nest, then slide the Front Panel outward
and away.
Mounting Tips
When mounting the transceiver body in the
trunk, we recommend using the MLS-100
optional external speaker and supplied
speaker extension cable.
INSTALLATION
Mount the mounting
nest with these slits
facing upward.
Figure 4
Adhesive Mounting
Mount the mounting
nest with these slits
facing upward.
Figure 6
Controller Extension Cable
Figure 5
Figure 7
MMB-62 (Option) Mounting
11FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
BASE ST ATION INSTALLATION
The FT-8900R is ideal for base station use as well as in mobile installations. The FT8900R is specifically designed to integrate into your station easily, using the information
to follow as a reference.
AC Power Supplies
Operation of the FT-8900R from an AC line requires a power source capable of providing
at least 15 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 wellregulated 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.
Packet Radio Terminal Node Controller (TNC)
The FT-8900R provides a convenient rear-panel DATA jack for easy connections to your
TNC. This connector is a standard mini-DIN connector. A pre-wired connector and cable
assembly option, model CT-39A, is available from your local Yaesu dealer.
The FT-8900R’s DATA jack connections are optimized for the data transmission and re-
ception speed in use. In accordance with industry standards, the signal levels, impedances,
and bandwidths are significantly different on 9600 bps as opposed to 1200 bps. If your
TNC does not provide multiple lines to accommodate such optimization, you may still be
able to utilize your TNC, if it is designed for multiple-radio use, by connecting the TNC “Radio
1” port to the 1200 bps lines on the FT-8900R, and the “Radio 2” port to the 9600 bps lines.
The pin connections of the Data connector are shown below.
DATA Jack Pin Out
Pin
1
2
3
4
5
6
Label
PKD
(
DATA IN
GND
PTT
RX9600
RX1200
SQL
Note
Packet Data Input
Impedance: 10 k,
)
Maximum Input Level: 40 mV p-p for 1200 bps
Signal Ground
Gound to Transmit
9600 bps Packet Data Output
1200 bps Packet Data Output
Squelch Control
2.0 Vp-p for 9600 bps
Impedance: 10 k, Maximum Output: 500 mV p-p
Impedance: 10 k, Maximum Output: 300 mV p-p
Squelch Open: +5 V, Squelch Close: 0 V
CT-39A Wire Color
Brown
Red
Orange
Yellow
Green
Blue
NOTE: The FT-8900R is not capable of 9600 bps at 28 MHz and 50 MHz, it becomes
1200 bps forcibly.
The display will not show 1200 bps; only the 9600 bps is shown. If there is no
display the rate is 1200 bps.
12 FT-8900R Operating Manual
INSTALLATION
BASE STATION INSTALLATION
Note that 9600 bps packet transmit-deviation adjustment is very critical to successful operation, and can only be accomplished using a calibrated deviation meter (such as that
found on an FM Service Monitor used in a communications service center). In most cases,
the Packet Data Input level (set via a potentiometer inside the TNC) must be adjusted to
provide a deviation of ±2.75 kHz (±0.25 kHz). Check with your packet node’s sysop if you
have any questions about the appropriate deviation level for your network. Note also that
high throughput on 9600 bps frequently requires strong signals, so you may wish to consider the use of a directional antenna such as a Yagi for communication with high-speed
packet nodes.
The setting of the 1200 bps Packet Data Input level is much less critical than it is at 9600 bps,
and satisfactory adjustment to the optimum (±2.5 ~ ±3.5 kHz) deviation can usually be done
“by ear” by adjusting the TNC’s 1200 bps TX Audio Level potentiometer so that the outgoing packets (as monitored on a separate VHF or UHF receiver) are approximately the same
level as (A) the DTMF tones or (B) the 1750 Hz Burst tone produced using the microphone.
Finally, note that the Menu (“Set”) mode allows you to set the Packet data rate (1200 or
9600 bps) independently for each band, and set the Packet Receiving Band (Main band,
Right band, or Left band: The Paket Transmitting Band is fixed on the Main band). If you
have trouble getting your FT-8900R to respond correctly during packet operation, check
to be certain that you do not have Menu #26 (
Menu #27 (
PCKT BPCKT B
PCKT B) set to the wrong receiving band.
PCKT BPCKT B
PCKT SPCKT S
PCKT S) set to the wrong data rate, and/or
PCKT SPCKT S
ANT
13.8VDC
EXT SP
DATA
DATA
DATA
OUT
IN PTT
DATA IN
GND
DATA OUT
(9600bps)
PTT
9600bps Packet Setup
ANT
13.8VDC
EXT SP
DATA
DATA
DATA
OUT
IN PTT
DATA IN
GND
DATA OUT
(1200bps)
PTT
1200bps Packet Setup
13FT-8900R Operating Manual
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES
VOL VOL
“Left” DIAL knob
1
2
SQL SQL
3
LOW
V/M
HM
KEY2
HM
V/M
SCN
LOW
4
5
PWR
6
SCN
This 20-position detented rotary switch is the tuning dial for the “left” band. Press this
knob momentarily to switch the “Main band” to be the “left” band.
When the “left” band is set to be the “Main band” in the VFO mode, press this knob to
enable rapid tuning (in 1 MHz steps) using this knob.
Press and hold in this knob for 1/2 second to toggle the operating band on the “left”
side as follows:
144
MHz
350
“Left” VOL SQL Knob
MHz
430
MHz
850
MHz
29
MHz
50
MHz
144
The inner VOL (Volume) control adjusts the speaker audio level form the “left” re-
ceiver. Clockwise rotation increases the audio level.
Press this knob momentarily to switch the Internet Connection feature “on” and “off.”
MHz
......
The outer SQL (Squelch) control is used to silence background noise on the “left”
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.
Hyper Memory Buttons
([1]
~
[6])
Press and hold in one of these buttons for 2 seconds to store the current total configuration of the radio into a special “Hyper” memory bank.
Press the appropriate button momentarily to recall the desired “Hyper” memory.
14 FT-8900R Operating Manual
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES
“Left” Side Keys
[
LOW] Key
Press this key momentarily to select the transmitter power output level of the “left”
band (“LOW,” “MID2,” “MID1,” or “HIGH”).
When the “left” band is set to the Memory mode or Home Channel, press and hold in
this key for 1/2 second to switch the memory channel display between the “Frequency”
format and “Alpha-numeric Tag” format.
[
V/M] Key
Press this key momentarily to switch the frequency control for the “left” band between
the VFO and Memory Systems.
When the “left” band is set to the VFO mode, press and hold in this for 1/2 second to
activate the Smart Search Feature.
When the “left” band is set to the Memory mode, press and hold in this key for 1/2
second to shift to the “Memory Tuning” feature.
[HM]
Key
Press this key momentarily to recall a favorite “Home” frequency memory.
Press and hold in this key for 1/2 second to activate Priority Channel Scanning.
[
SCN] Key
Press this key momentarily to activate the Scanner on the “left” band.
When the “left” band is set to the Memory mode, press and hold in this key for 1/2
second to set up the Scan Skip List or Preferential Scan List.
[
]
SET
Press this key momentarily to enter the Set (“Menu”) mode.
Press and hold in this for 1/2 second to transfer the contents of the “Main band” VFO
into a Memory register.
Key
15FT-8900R Operating Manual
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES
“Right” Side Keys
], [
The “right” side ([LOW
two function sets via Menu #20 (
dure.
], [HM]
V/M
KEY.MODKEY.MOD
KEY.MOD). See page 64 for the setup proce-
KEY.MODKEY.MOD
, and
[
SCN
])
keys may be set to either of
[
LOW] Key ([MHz] Key
Key Mode “1” ([LOW] Key: Default
Press this key momentarily to select the transmitter power output level of the “right”
band (“LOW,” “MID2,” “MID1,” or “HIGH”).
When the “right” band is set to the Memory mode or Home Channel, press and hold in
this key for 1/2 second to switch the memory channel display between the “Frequency”
format and the “Alpha-numeric Tag” format.
Key Mode “2” ([MHz] Key
Press this key momentarily to allow tuning in 1-MHz steps on the “Main” band VFO.
Press and hold in this key for 1/2 second to allow tuning in 10-MHz steps on the “Main”
band VFO.
[
V/M] Key ([REV] Key
Key Mode “1” ([V/M] Key: Default
Press this key momentarily to switch the frequency control for the “right” band be-
tween the VFO and Memory Systems.
When the “right” band is set to the VFO mode, press and hold in this for 1/2 second to
activate the Smart Search Feature.
When the “right” band is set to the Memory mode, press and hold in this key for 1/2
second to shift to the “Memory Tuning” feature.
Key Mode “2” ([REV] Key
Press this key momentarily to reverse the transmit and receive frequencies on the “Main”
band during split-frequency (i.e. “Repeater”) operation.
Press and hold in this key for 1/2 second to change the frequency shift direction: RPT
– (minus shift), RPT + (plus shift), or RPT OFF (simplex).
)
)
)
)
)
)
[HM]
Key ([TONE] Key
Key Mode “1” ([HM] Key: Default
Press this key momentarily to recall a favorite “Home” frequency memory.
Press and hold in this for 1/2 second to activate Priority Channel Scanning.
Key Mode “2” ([TONE] Key
Press this key momentarily to change the Tone Squelch mode: ENC (CTCSS Encoder),
ENC.DEC (CTCSS Tone Squelch), or DCS (DCS) operation.
)
)
)
16 FT-8900R Operating Manual
FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES
[
SCN] Key ([SUB] Key
Key Mode “1” ([SCN] Key: Default
Press this key momentarily to activate the Scanner on the “Right” band.
When the “Right” band is set to the Memory mode, press and hold in this key for 1/2
second to set up the Scan Skip List or Preferential Scan List.
Key Mode “2” ([SCN] Key
Press this key momentarily to make the next key you press act on the “Sub” band (the
“ ” icon will blink on the “Sub” band).
VOL SQL Knob (Right)
The inner VOL (Volume) control adjusts the speaker audio level from the “right” re-
ceiver. Clockwise rotation increases the audio level.
Press and hond in this knob for 2 seconds to turn the radio “on” and “off.”
The outer SQL (Squelch) control is used to silence background noise on the “right”
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.
DIAL knob (Right)
This 20-position detented rotary switch is the tuning dial for the “right” band.
Press this knob momentarily to switch the “Main band” to be the “right” band.
When the “right” band is set to be the “Main” band in the VFO mode, press this knob
to enable rapid tuning (in 1 MHz steps) using this knob.
Press and hold in this knob for 1/2 second to switch the operating band on the “right”
band between 144 MHz and 430 MHz.
)
)
)
17FT-8900R Operating Manual
LCD
“Left” Band Memory Channel
“Left” Band Frequency
“Left” Band S- & PO Meter
Icons
: Preferential Memory Channel
: Skip Memory Channel
: Minus Shift
: Plus Shift
: Odd Splits
: Tone Encoder
: Tone Decoder
: Transmission in Progress
: “Main” Band
: Busy Channel (or Squelch Off)
: Memory Tune Mode
: Audio Mute Active
: Digital Code Squelch (DCS)
: AM Reception
: 9600 bps Packet Mode
: Low TX Power Selected
: Middle TX Power Selected
: Automatic Power-Off Active
: Keypad/DIAL Lock Active
: Menu (“Set”) Mode
: Key Function Mode is selected to “KEY-2”
“Left” Band Memory Channel
“Right” Band Frequency
“Right” Band S- & PO Meter
18 FT-8900R Operating Manual
REAR PANEL CONNECTIONS
ANT
13.8VDC
EXT SP
DATA
Antenna Jack
Connect your antenna here, using a type-M (PL-259) plug for USA version or type-N
(for EXP version) plug and coaxial cable.
DA TA Jack
This 6-pin mini-DIN connector provides simple interfacing to a packet Terminal Node
Controller (TNC) for 1200 bps or 9600 bps operation. The pin connections are shown
on page 12.
EXT SP Jack
This 2-conductor, 3.5-mm mini phone jack provides audio output for an optional speaker.
The optimum load impedance is 8 Ohms. Inserting a plug into this jack disables the
audio path to the transceiver’s internal speaker.
13.8V DC Cable Pigtails w/Fuse
This is the DC power supply connection for the transceiver. Use the supplied DC cable
to connect this pigtail to the car battery or base station DC power supply capable of at
least 9 Amperes (continuous duty). Make certain that the Red lead connects to the
Positive (+) side of the power source, and that the Black lead connects to the Negative
(-) side of the power source.
19FT-8900R Operating Manual
MH-48A6J MICROPHONE
PTT Switch
Press this switch to transmit, and release it to receive.
Keypad
These 16 keys generate DTMF tones during transmission.
In the receive mode, these 16 keys can be used for
direct frequency entry and/or direct numeric recall of the Memory channels.
[P1]/[P2]/[P3]/[P4]
[P1] button: Press this button to switch the “Main”
band between the “Left” and “Right” displays on the LCD
screen. This is the best and easiest way to set the “Main” band
to the side you prefer.
Pressing and holding in this button for 1/2 second moves operation to the next-highest frequency band on the “Main” band.
[P2]
button: Press this button momentarily to switch the frequency
control for the “Main” band between the VFO and Memory Systems.
When the “Main” band is set to the VFO mode, press and hold in this button for 1/2 second
to activate the Smart Search Feature.
When the “Main” band is set to the Memory mode, press and hold in this button for 1/2
second to shift to the “Memory (offset) Tuning” feature.
[P3]
button: Pressing this button repeatedly allows selection of the CTCSS or DCS mode
on the “Main” band. The selections available are:
ENC ENC.DEC (Tone Squelch) DCS OFF ENC
[P4]
button: Press this button momentarily to select the transmitter power output level on
the “Main” band (“LOW,” “MID2,” “MID1,” or “HIGH”).
When the “Main” band is set to the Memory mode or Home Channel, press and hold in
this key for 1/2 second to switch the memory channel display between the “Frequency”
format and “Alpha-numeric Tag” format.
You can reprogram the
See page 53 for details.
Buttons
[P1], [P2], [P3]
, and
[P4]
buttons for other functions, if desired.
DTMF MICROPHONE
......
MH-48
LAMP Switch
This switch illuminates the Microphone keypad.
LOCK Switch
This switch locks out the Microphone buttons (except for the keypad and PTT switch).
[UP]/[
Press (or hold in) either of these buttons to tune (or scan up or down) the operating
frequency or through the memory channels on the “Main” band. In many ways, these
buttons emulate the function of the (rotary) “Main” band DIAL knob.
DWN
]
Button
20 FT-8900R Operating Manual
MH-42B6JS MICROPHONE
The MH-42B6JS is similar to the MH-48A6J, but the MH-42B6JS does not include a DTMF
keypad and its illumination switch.
PTT Switch
Press this switch to transmit, and release it to receive.
[
]/[P]/[P1]/[P2]
ACC
[
ACC] button: Press this button to switch the “Main”
band between the “Left” and “Right” displays on the
LCD screen. This is the best and easiest way to set the
“Main” band to the side you prefer.
Pressing and holding in this button for 1/2 second moves operation to the next-highest frequency band on the “Main” band.
[P]
button: Press this button momentarily to switch the fre-
quency control for the “Main” band between the VFO and
Memory Systems.
When the “Main” band is set to the VFO mode, press and hold
in this button for 1/2 second to activate the Smart Search Feature.
When the “Main” band is set to the Memory mode, press and hold in this
button for 1/2 second to shift to the “Memory (offset) Tuning” feature.
[P1]
button: Pressing this button repeatedly allows selection of the
CTCSS or DCS mode on the “Main” band. The selections available are:
ENC ENC.DEC (Tone Squelch) DCS OFF ENC
[P2]
button: Press this button momentarily to select the transmitter power output level on
the “Main” band (“LOW,” “MID2,” “MID1,” or “HIGH”).
When the “Main” band is set to the Memory mode or Home Channel, press and hold in
this key for 1/2 second to switch the memory channel display between the “Frequency”
format and “Alpha-numeric Tag” format. You can reprogram the
[P2]
buttons for other functions, if desired. See page 53 for details.
Buttons
......
[
ACC
CONDENSER MIC
MH-42
B
], [P], [P1]
, and
LOCK Switch
This switch locks out the Microphone buttons (except for the keypad and PTT switch).
[UP]/[
Press (or hold in) either of these buttons to tune (or scan up or down) the operating
frequency or through the memory channels on the “Main” band. In many ways, these
buttons emulate the function of the (rotary) “Main” band DIAL knob.
Notice: If you replace the microphone from the MH-48A6J to MH-42B6JS or vice
versa, perform Menu #23 (
When you perform a microprocessor reset, the default setting of the microphone
type will change to MH-42. Please change the microphone type to MH-48 in Menu
#23 (see page 65 for details).
DWN
]
Button
MICMIC
MIC). See page 65 for details.
MICMIC
21FT-8900R Operating Manual
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