YAESU FT-897D Operating Manual
HF/VHF/UHF
ALL MODE TRANSCEIVER
FT-897D
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 EUROPE B.V.
P.O. Box 75525, 1118 ZN Schiphol, The Netherlands
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
Contents
CAT
INTRODUCTION
The FT-897D is a rugged, innovative multiband, multi-
mode 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-897D includes operation on
the SSB, CW, AM, FM, and Digital modes, yielding the most
comprehensive performance package available for field operation.
Designed for use from (1) an external DC power source,
(2) internal battery (requires optional FNB-78 Ni-MH battery pack), or (3) AC power source (requires optional FP-
30 External AC Power Supply), the FT-897D provides 100
watts of power output from a 13.8-Volt external power supply or AC operation. When using the optional FNB-78 NiMH Battery Pack, the FT-897D automatically switches to
20 Watts (430 MHz:10W) of output power.
The multi-function Liquid-Crystal Display includes attractive 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 (A,
B, and C).
Among the advanced features of the FT-897D are many
incorporated only in large base-station transceivers. These
include Dual VFOs; Split-Frequency operation; Digital Signal Processing (Bandpass Filtering, Noise Reduction, Notch,
and Microphone Equalizer); 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; Built-in High Stability Reference Oscillator; AM Aircraft reception; AM and
FM Broadcast reception; U.S. Weather Band 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 new FT-897D Transceiver.
Page 1FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
SPECIFICATIONS
General
Frequency Range: Receive: 0.1-56 MHz, 76-108 MHz, 118-164 MHz, 420-470 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: A1 (CW), A3 (AM), A3J (LSB/USB), F3 (FM),
F1 (9600 bps packet), F2 (1200 bps packet)
Synthesizer Steps (Min.): 10 Hz (CW/SSB), 100 Hz (AM/FM/WFM)
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ohms, Unbalanced (M)
Operating Temp. Range: +14 °F to +140 °F (–10 °C to +60 °C)
Frequency Stability: ±0.5 ppm/1 hour @25 °C, after warmup
Supply Voltage: Normal: 13.8 VDC ±15 %, Negative Ground
FNB-78 (Ni-MH Battery Pack): 13.2 V (Option)
Current Consumption: Squelched: 600 mA (Approx.)
Receive: 1 A
Transmit: 22 A
Case Size (W x H x D): 7.87” x 3.15” x 10.3” (200 x 80 x 262 mm)
Weight (Approx.): 8.6 lb (3.9 kg) (w/o Ni-MH battery, antenna, Microphone)
Transmitter
RF Power Output (@13.8 V DC): SSB/CW/FM AM Carrier
160- 6 Meter: 100 W 25 W
2 Meter: 50 W 12.5 W
70 Centimeter: 20 W 5 W
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 Suppression: >50 dB
SSB Frequency Response: 400 Hz-2600 Hz (–6 dB)
Microphone Impedance: 200-10k Ohms (Nominal: 600 Ohms)
Receiver
Circuit Type: Double-Conversion Superheterodyne (SSB/CW/AM/FM)
Superheterodyne (WFM)
Intermediate Frequencies: 1st: 68.33 MHz (SSB/CW/AM/FM); 10.7 MHz (WFM)
2nd: 455 kHz
Sensitivity: SSB/CW AM FM
100 kHz-1.8 MHz – 32 µV –
1.8 MHz-28 MHz 0.2 µV 2 µV –
28 MHz-30 MHz 0.2 µV 2 µV 0.5 µV
50 MHz-54 MHz 0.125 µV 1 µV 0.2 µV
144/430 MHz 0.125 µV – 0.2 µV
(SSB/CW/AM = 10 dB S/N, FM = 12 dB SINAD)
Squelch Sensitivity: SSB/CW/AM FM
100 kHz-1.8 MHz ––
1.8 MHz-28 MHz 2.5 µV –
28 MHz-30 MHz 2.5 µV 0.32 µV
50 MHz-54 MHz 1 µV 0.16 µV
144/430 MHz 0.5 µV 0.16 µV
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
S
z/2.0 kHz
CW (option YF-122CN installed): 300 Hz/1.0 kHz
AF Output: 2.5 W (@4 Ohms, 10% THD or less)
AF Output Impedance: 4-16 Ohms
Specifications are subject to change without notice, and are guaranteed within the amateur bands only.
Page 2 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES
Hand Microphone MH-31
DC Power Cord
Operating Manual
Warranty Card
A8J
AVAILABLE OPTIONS
FP-30 External AC Power Supply
FP-1030A External AC Power Supply (25A)
FP-1023A Compact Power Supply (23A; U.S.A. only)
FNB-78 Ni-MH Battery Pack (13.2 V, 4500 mAh)
PA-26B/C/U Ni-MH Battery Charger
CD-24 Ni-MH Battery Charger Adapter
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)
FC-30 External Automatic Antenna Tuner
ATAS-25 Active-Tuning Antenna System
ATAS-100 Active-Tuning Antenna System
ATAS-120 Active-Tuning Antenna System
ATBK-100 VHF/UHF Antenna Base/Counterpoise Kit
MMB-80 Mounting Braket
VL-1000 Solid-State Linear Amplifier
MD-200A8X Desktop Microphone
MH-36E8J DTMF Microphone
MH-59A8J Remote Control Microphone
CT-62 CAT Interface Cable
CT-39A Packet Cable
CT-58 BAND DATA Cable
Page 3FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
POWER CONNECTIONS
The FT-897D is designed use from (1) an external DC power source, (2) internal battery (requires optional FNB-78 Ni-MH
battery pack), or (3) AC power source (requires optional FP-30 Internal AC Power Supply).
External DC power source operation
The DC power connector for the FT-897D must only be
connected to a DC source providing 13.8 Volts DC (±15%),
and capable of at least 22 Amperes of current. Always observe proper polarity when making DC connections:
The Red DC power lead connects to the Positive (+)
DC terminal; and the Black DC power lead connects
to the Negative (–) DC terminal.
In mobile installations, noise pickup may be minimized by
connecting the DC cable directly to your vehicle’s battery,
rather than to the ignition switch or “accessory” circuitry.
Direct connection to the battery also provides the best voltage stability.
Tips for Successful Mobile Installations:
Before connecting the DC cable to the battery, measure
Ì
the voltage across the battery terminals with the engine
running fast enough to show a charge. If the voltage is
above 15 Volts, the vehicle’s voltage regulator should
be adjusted to reduce the charging voltage to 14 Volts or
lower.
Route the DC cable as far away from the ignition cables
Ì
as possible.
If the DC cable is not long enough, use #12 AWG (mini-
Ì
mum) stranded, insulated wire to extend it. Be certain to
solder the connections at the splice securely, and provide ample insulation for the soldered splice (heat shrink
tubing plus black electrical tape work well).
Check the battery terminal connections frequently to be
Ì
sure they are tight and not corroded.
When operating with the vehicle turned off, or operating
Ì
from a stand-alone car battery (in a camp site, etc.), be
mindful of the minimum operating voltage (11.73 Volts)
for the FT-897D. If the battery is not charged sufficiently
to maintain at least 11¾ Volts at the radio, erratic operation or shut-down may occur.
Caution
Permanent damage can result if improper supply voltage, or reverse-polarity voltage, is applied to the FT-
897D. The Limited Warranty on this transceiver does
not cover damage caused by application of AC voltage,
reversed polarity DC, or DC voltage outside the specified range of 13.8V ±15%. Never attempt to connect
the FT-897D to a 24 Volt battery system.
When replacing fuses, be certain to use a fuse of the
proper rating. The FT-897D requires a 25A fast-blow
fuse.
Page 4 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
POWER CONNECTIONS
AC power source operation (requires optional FP-30 AC power supply)
For base station installations, Yaesu recommends the use of
the FP-30 AC power supply, which is designed to clamp
onto the FT-897D.
Installation
1. Turn the transceiver’s power off, and disconnect all
cables from the transceiver.
2. Remove the six screws (three screws on bottom side and
rear side), then lift off the bottom cover (Figure 1 and 2).
3. Attach the FP-30 to the bottom of the FT-897D, then
affix it in place with the six screws removed in the above
steps (Figure 3).
4. Connect the 6-pin Molex plug from the FP-30 to the
INPUT jack on the rear panel of the FT-897D (Figure
4).
5. Make sure that your AC voltage is correct and that the
FP-30 POWER switch is set to Off; connect the AC
power cable between the INPUT jack on the rear panel
of the FP-30 and a nearby AC wall outlet.
Operation
1. To turn the transceiver on, turn on the POWER switch
on the FP-30 before turning on the POWER switch on
the FT-897D.
2. To turn the transceiver off, turn off the POWER switch
on the FT-897D before turning off the POWER switch
on the FP-30.
When you do not use the FP-30 with the FT-897D
for a long time, disconnect the AC plug from the AC
wall outlet.
Figure 1
Figure 2
AC Input Voltage Selection (U.S.A. Users only)
Ì Before moving the AC range switch, disconnect the FP-30’s AC Power
Cable from the AC line outlet, then wait 10 minutes to allow the power
supply’s electrolytic capacitors to discharge (electrical shock hazard!).
Ì Peel off the label on the side of the FP-30.
Ì Move the AC range switch to the “115” position for operation from
100-120 VAC, or to the “230” position for operation from 200-240 VAC.
Ì Always uses the 10 A Fuse in the fuse holder on the rear panel whether
operate on 100-120 VAC or 200-240 VAC. Do not use the improper
fuse.
Figure 3
Figure 4
POWER Switch
Peel off the label
Warning: Our Warranty does not cover damage caused by improper supply voltage nor use of an improper fuse.
Page 5FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
POWER CONNECTIONS
Internal battery operation (requires optional FNB-78 Ni-MH battery pack)
The optional FNB-78 Ni-MH Battery Pack provides 13.2
Volts of DC power for your FT-897D, with a maximum capacity of 4500 mAh (you may install the two FNB-78 into
the FT-897D, in this time, maximum capacity is 9 Ah!).
A fully charged set of FNB-78 Ni-MH Battery Pack should
provide approximately 4 hours of reception under typical
conditions.
Installation
1. Turn the transceiver’s power off, and disconnect all
cables from the transceiver.
2. Remove the six screws (three screws on bottom side and
rear side), then lift off the bottom cover (Figure 1 and 2).
3. Insert the FNB-78 into the battery compartment “A” or
“B”on the bottom of the radio so that the battery’s mounting tab is aligned with the mounting hole on the radio’s
chassis (Figure 3).
4. Connect the 3-pin connector from the FNB-78 to the
battery jack on the radio’s chassis, corresponding to the
label (“A” or “B”) of the battery compartment to which
the FNB-78 is installed (Figure 3).
5. Remove the plastic cap, which is same label (“A” or “B”)
of the battery compartment witch is the FNB-78 installed,
from the to bottom cover, before turning the plastic cap
so that the small project of the cap is aligned with the
slot of the bottom cover (Figure 2).
6. Replace the bottom cover and its six screws.
Charging
Charging of the FNB-78 requires the use of the optional
CD-24 Charge Adapter.
1. Turn the radio off.
2. Connect the cable plug from the DC Power supply into
the INPUT jack on the CD-24 Charge Adapter, then insert the cable plug from the CD-24 into the “CHG-A”
or “CHG-B” jack on the rear of the radio.
3. The “BATT-A” or “BATT-B” indicator on the front panel
of the FT-897D will glow red (Charging) while the battery is being charged. When charging is completed, the
red LED indicator will turn to off (Fully Charged).
A fully-discharged pack will be charged completely in
about four hours.
4. Unplug the cable from the CHG terminal, then disconnect the CD-24 from the DC Power supply.
Operation
Before turning the radio on, select the battery (“A” or “B”)
to be used by setting the top panel’s A-B switch as appropri-
ate.
AC Power Supply
Figure 1
DC Power Cord
CD-24
Figure 2
Connector “A”
A
B
AB
Connector “B”
Plastic Cap
CHG jack on the rear of the radio
Figure 3
Page 6 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
GROUNDING
INSTALLATION
The provision of an effective ground system is important in
any successful communications station. A good ground system can contribute to station efficiency in a number of ways:
It can minimize the possibility of electrical shock to the
Ì
operator.
It can minimize RF currents flowing on the shield of the
Ì
coaxial cable and the chassis of the transceiver which
may cause interference to nearby home entertainment
devices or laboratory test equipment.
It can minimize the possibility of erratic transceiver op-
Ì
eration caused by RF feedback or improper current flow
through logic devices.
An effective earth ground system may take several forms;
for a more complete discussion, see an appropriate RF engineering text. The information presented below is intended
only as a guideline.
Inspect the ground system – inside the station as well as
outside – on a regular basis so as to ensure maximum performance and safety.
Mobile Station Grounding
Although satisfactory grounding in most installations will
be achieved via the DC cable’s negative lead and the antenna system’s coaxial cable shield, it is often recommended
that you provide a direct ground connection to the vehicle
chassis at the mounting location of the transceiver (installation using the optional MMB-80 Mounting Bracket will accomplish this, if the MMB-80 itself is mounted to the
vehicle’s chassis). Due to unexpected resonance which may
naturally occur in any location, improper communication
system performance may result from insufficient grounding. These symptoms may include:
Base Station Earth Grounding
Typically, the ground connection consists of one or more
copper-clad steel rods, driven into the ground. If multiple
ground rods are used, they should be configured in a “V”
configuration, and bonded together at the apex of the “V”
which is nearest the station location. Use a heavy, braided
cable (such as the discarded shield from type RG-213 coaxial cable) and strong cable clamps to secure the braided
cables to the ground rods. Be sure to weatherproof the connections to ensure many years of reliable service. Use the
same type of heavy, braided cable for the connections to the
station ground bus (described below).
Do not use gas line pipes in an attempt to provide a ground
connection! To do so creates a serious risk of explosion!!
Inside the station, a common ground bus consisting of a copper pipe of at least 25 mm (1”) diameter should be used. An
alternative station ground bus may consist of a wide copper
plate (single-sided circuit board material is ideal) secured
to the bottom of the operating desk. Grounding connections
from individual devices such as transceivers, power supplies, and data communications devices should be made directly to the ground bus using a heavy, braided cable.
Do not make ground connections from one electrical device
to another, and thence to the ground bus. This so-called
“Daisy Chain” grounding technique may nullify any attempt
at effective radio frequency grounding. See the drawings
below for examples of proper and improper ground connections. If your coaxial cable does not connect directly to the
station ground bus, you may connect a ground cable to the
Ground lug on the FT-897D rear panel.
GND Terminal
RF feedback (resulting in distortion on your transmitted
Ì
signal);
Unintended frequency change;
Ì
Blinking or blanking of the frequency display;
Ì
Noise pickup; and/or
Ì
Ì
ons may occur in any communica-
tions installation. The FT-897D includes extensive filtering
designed to minimize the chance of such problems; however, random currents set up by insufficient RF grounding
can nullify such filtering. Bonding the rear panel Ground
lug of the FT-897D transceiver to the vehicle or vessel’s
ground system should clear up any such difficulties.
Vertex Standard does not recommend the use of “on glass”
mobile antennas unless the shield of the coaxial cable is securely grounded near the feedpoint of the antenna. Such
antennas frequently are responsible for the ground-related
difficulties described above.
Improper Ground Connection
Transceiver Linear
Amplifier
"Daisy Chain"
Proper Ground Connection
Transceiver
Linear
Amplifier
Power
Supply
Power
Supply
Page 7FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
ANTENNA CONSIDERATIONS
The antenna systems connected to your FT-897D transceiver
are, of course, critically important in ensuring successful
communications. The FT-897D is designed for use with any
antenna system providing a 50 Ω resistive impedance at the
desired operating frequency. While minor excursions from
the 50 Ω specification are of no consequence, the power
amplifier’s protection circuitry will begin to reduce the power
output of there is more than a 50% divergence from the specified impedance (less than 33 Ω or greater than 75 Ω, corresponding to a Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) of 1.5:1).
Two antenna jacks are provided on the rear panel of the FT-
897D. The “HF/50 MHz ANT” jack is used for HF and 50
MHz, while the “144/430 MHz ANT” jack is used for 144
MHz and 430 MHz.
Guidelines for successful base and mobile station installations are shown below.
Mobile Antenna Installations
Mobile antennas for the HF bands, with the possible exception of those designed for 28 MHz, display very high “Q”
due to the fact that they must be physically shortened, then
resonated using a loading coil. Additional system bandwidth
may be realized using the Yaesu FC-30 Automatic Antenna
Tuner, which will present a 50 Ω impedance to your transceiver on the 1.8 ~ 50 MHz bands so long as the SWR on
the coaxial line connected to the FC-30 is below 3:1.
On the VHF and UHF bands, coaxial line losses increase so
rapidly in the presence of SWR that we recommend that all
impedance matching to 50 Ω be performed at the antenna
feedpoint.
Yaesu’s Active-Tuned Antenna System (ATAS-100/-120)
is a unique HF/VHF/UHF mobile antenna system, which
provides automatic tuning when used with the FT-897D.
See page 39 for full details on the ATAS-100/-120.
For VHF/UHF weak-signal (CW/SSB) operation, remember that the antenna polarization standard for these modes is
horizontal, not vertical, so you must use a loop or otherwise
horizontally-polarized antenna so as to avoid cross-polarization loss of signal strength (which can be 20 dB or more!).
On HF, signals propagated via the ionosphere develop mixed
polarizations, so antenna selection may be made strictly on
mechanical considerations; vertical antennas are almost always utilized on HF for this reason.
Base Station Antenna Installations
When installing a “balanced” antenna such as a Yagi or dipole, remember that the FT-897D is designed for use with
an (unbalanced) coaxial feedline. Always use a balun or other
balancing device so as to ensure proper antenna system performance.
Use high-quality 50 Ω coaxial cable for the lead-in to your
FT-897D 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 a coaxial line with 0.5 dB of loss at 7
MHz may have 6 dB of loss at 432 MHz (thereby consuming 75% of your transceiver’s power output!). As a general
rule, smaller-diameter coaxial cables tend to have higher
losses than larger-diameter cables, although the precise differences depend on the cable construction, materials, and
the quality of the connectors used with the cable. See the
cable manufacturers’ specifications for details.
For reference, the chart below shows approximate loss figures for typically- available coaxial cables frequently used
in HF installations.
Loss in dB per 30 m (100 feet)
for Selected 50-ohm Coaxial Cables
Loss
Cable Type 1.8 MHz 28 MHz 432 MHz
RG-58A 0.55 2.60 >10
RG-58 Form 0.54 2.00 8.0
RG-8X 0.39 1.85 7.0
RG-8A, RG-213 0.27 1.25 5.9
RG-8 Form 0.22 0.88 3.7
Belden 9913 0.18 0.69 2.9
7/8” “Hardline” <0.1 0.25 1.3
Loss figures are approximate; consult cable manufacturer’s
catalogs for complete specifications.
Always locate antennas such that they can never come in
contact with outdoor power lines in the event of a catastrophic
support or power-pole structural failure. Ground your antennas’ support structure(s) adequately, so as to dissipate
energy absorbed during a lightning strike. Install appropriate lightning arrestors in the antenna coaxial cables (and
rotator cables, if rotary antennas are used).
In the event of an approaching electrical storm, disconnect
all antenna lead-in, rotator cables, and power cables com-
pletely from your station if the storm is not immediately
in your area. Do not allow disconnected cables to touch the
case of your FT-897D transceiver or accessories, as lightning can easily jump from the cable to the circuitry of your
transceiver via the case, causing irreparable damage. If a
lightning storm is in progress in your immediate area, do
not attempt to disconnect the cables, as you could be killed
instantly if lightning should strike your antenna structure or
a nearby power line.
If a vertical antenna is utilized, be certain that humans and/
or pets and farm animals are kept away both from the radiating element (to prevent electrical shock and RF exposure
danger) and the ground system (in the event of an electrical
storm). The buried radials of a ground-mounted vertical
antenna can carry lethal voltages outward from the center of
the antenna in the event of a direct lightning strike.
Page 8 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
RF FIELD EXPOSURE
This transceiver is capable of power output in excess of 50
Watts, so customers in the United States may be required to
demonstrate compliance with Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) regulations concerning maximum permissible exposure to radio frequency energy. Compliance is
based on the actual power output used, feedline loss, antenna type and height, and other factors which can only be
evaluated as a system.
Information regarding these regulations may be available
from your Dealer, your local radio club, from the FCC directly (press releases and other information can be found on
the FCC’s site on the World Wide Web at <http://
www.fcc.gov>), or from the American Radio Relay League,
Inc. (225 Main St., Newington CT 06111 or <http://
www.arrl.org>).
Although there is negligible radio frequency (RF) leakage
from the FT-897D transceiver itself, its antenna system
should be located as far away from humans and animals as
practicable, so as to avoid the possibility of shock due to
accidental contact with the antenna or excessive long-term
exposure to RF energy. During mobile operation, do not
transmit if someone is standing adjacent to your antenna,
and use the lowest power possible.
ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY
If this transceiver is used with, or in the vicinity of, a computer or computer-driven accessories, you may need to experiment with grounding and/or Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) suppression devices (such as ferrite cores) to
minimize interference to your communications caused by
energy from the computer. Computer-generated RFI is usually a result of inadequate shielding of the computer’s cabinet or I/O and peripheral connections. While computer equipment may “comply” with RF emission standards, this does
not ensure that sensitive Amateur Radio receivers like the
FT-897D will not experience interference from the device!
Be certain to use only shielded cables for TNC-to-Transceiver connections. You may need to install AC line filters
on the power cord(s) of the suspected equipment, and
decoupling ferrite toroidal chokes may be required on interconnecting patch/data cables. As a last resort, you can try
installing additional shielding within the computer’s case,
using appropriate conductive mesh or conductive shielding
tape. Especially check “RF holes” where plastic is used for
cabinet front panels.
For further information, consult amateur radio reference
guides and publications relating to RFI suppression techniques.
Never stand in front of an antenna (during testing or operation) when RF power is applied, especially in the case of
430 MHz directional arrays. The 20 Watt power output supplied by the FT-897D, combined with the directivity of a
beam antenna, can cause immediate heating of human or
animal tissues, and may cause other undesirable medical
effects.
HEAT AND VENTILATION
To ensure long life of the components, be certain to provide
adequate ventilation around the cabinet of the FT-897D.
The cooling system of the transceiver must be free to draw
cool air in from the side of the transceiver and expel warm
air from the rear of the transceiver.
Do not install the transceiver on top of another heat-generating device (such as a linear amplifier), and do not place
equipment, books, or papers on top of the transceiver. Place
the transceiver on a hard, flat, stable surface. Avoid heating
vents and window locations that could expose the transceiver
to excessive direct sunlight, especially in hot climates.
Heat Dust VentilationWater & Moisture
Note
Save the packing materials in case you need to transport the set (on an airplane, etc.) and/or return the set
for service.
Page 9FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
LINEAR AMPLIFIER INTERFACING
The FT-897D provides the switching and drive-control lines
required for easy interfacing to most all commonly-available amplifiers sold today.
These include:
The Antenna Jacks (“HF/50MHz” and “144/430MHz”);
Ì
A T/R control line (open circuit on RX, closure to ground
Ì
on TX); and
A negative-going ALC jack (control voltage range: 0V
Ì
to –4V DC).
When interfacing to the VL-1000 Solid State 1 KW Lin-
Ì
ear Amplifier, the optional CT-58 Interface Cable provides for easy interconnection (requires that the Menu
Mode No-020 [CAT/LIN/TUN] setting changes to “LIN-
EAR”).
The rear-panel CAT/LINEAR jack is an 8-pin, miniature
DIN type, with the “TX GND” pin providing a closure to
ground on transmit, for T/R control of your linear amplifier.
The ACC jack is a miniature stereo type, with external ALC
input capability on the tip connection. The main shaft is the
ground return. The ring connection of the ACC jack, when
closed to ground, places the FT-897D into the transmit mode,
and sends a steady CW carrier, for amplifier (or antenna
tuner) adjustment purposes.
Typical amplifier interface circuits are shown below.
Note that some amplifiers, particularly VHF or UHF “brick”
amplifiers, offer two methods of T/R switching: application
of +13V or a closure to ground.
Be sure to configure your amplifier so that it switches via a
closure to ground, as provided by your FT-897D’s CA T/
LINEAR jack (“TX GND” pin). Alternatively, many of these
amplifiers use “RF Sensing” to control their relays; if yours
is in this category, you may then use the T/R control line
from the “TX GND” pin of the CAT/LINEAR jack for
control of your HF linear amplifier, and RF sensing for your
VHF or UHF amplifier.
The “TX GND” T/R control line is a transistor “open collector” circuit, capable of handling positive amplifier relay
coil voltages of up to +50V DC and current of up to 400
mA. If you plan on using multiple linear amplifiers for different bands, you must provide external band-switching of
the “TX GND” relay control line from the CA T/LINEAR
jack.
Important Note!
Do not exceed the maximum voltage or current ratings
for the “TX GND” line at the CA T/LINEAR jack. This
line is not compatible with negative DC voltages, nor
AC voltages of any magnitude.
Most amplifier control relay systems require only low
DC voltage/current switching capability (typically, +12V
DC at 25 ~ 75 mA), and the switching transistor in the
FT-897D will easily accommodate such amplifiers.
To HF Antenna
To HF Antenna
To 5 0 MH z An t e n na
ANT 1
ANT 2
ANT 3
VL-1000
ANT 1
To 144 / 430 M Hz Antenna
/LINEAR
CAT
*The “CT-58” consists of two separate cables: the BAND DATA cable (Part # T9101500) and the ALC Cable (T9101501).
CT-58 BAND D ATA Cable
ANT 2
CT-58 ALC Cable
REMOTE
BAND DATA 1
BAND DATA 2
BAND-DATA 1
ON
OFF
ALC 1
PTT 1
PTT 2
ALC 1
ALC 2
GND
INPUT 1
INPUT 2
GND
INPUT 1
CONTROL
DC48V IN
DC 48V IN
CONTROL
Page 10 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
INSTALLATION
CW KEY/KEYER CONNECTIONS
All commonly-available keyer paddles should work perfectly
with the built-in Electronic Keyer. The wiring configuration
for the paddle is shown below.
For straight-key operation, only the tip and shaft connections are used.
DASH
DOT
DASH
DOT
Note: Even when using a straight key, you must use a three-
When using an external electronic keyer, be absolutely certain that it is configured for “positive” keying, not “negative” or “grid block” keying. The “key-up” voltage of the
FT-897D is +5V, and the “key-down” current is only about
1 mA.
COMMON
conductor (“stereo”) plug. If a two-conductor plug
is used, the key line will be constantly shorted to
ground.
COMMON
KEY
GND
GNDKEY
RECEIVER ACCESSORIES
(
T
APE RECORDER ETC.
Connection of a tape recorder or other such receiver accessory is easily accomplished by using the DATA jack’s Data
Out (1200 bps) terminal (Pin 5) and Ground (Pin 2). The
audio output is fixed at 100 mV, with an impedance of 600
Ω.
DATA OUT
GND
DATA
1200bps
)
ADJUSTING THE FRONT BAIL
The front bail of the transceiver allows the transceiver to be
tilted upward for better viewing. Simply fold bail forward
to raise the front of the transceiver, and fold bail back against
the bottom case to lower the front of the FT-897D.
For CW automated keying using a personal computer, with
an external memory keyer providing for manual sending, it
usually is possible to connect the keyed lines together via a
“Y” connector. Check with the documentation accompanying your keyer and your contest/DX software for any cautions which need to be observed.
Page 11FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
D
BATT-A
BATT-B
Liquid Crystal Display
The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) provides indication
of the operating frequency and other aspects of transceiver status.
FUNC Keys
These three keys select many of the most important operating features of the transceiver. When you press the
[F]
key, then rotate the MEM/VFO CH knob, the cur-
rent function of that key will appear above each of the
[A], [B]
, and [C] keys (along the bottom of the LCD).
You may scroll the display through 17 rows of functions
available for use via the [A], [B], and [C] keys.
The available features are shown in page 14.
MIC Jack
Connect the supplied MH-31A8J Hand Microphone to
this jack.
DOWN
MICMIC GN
+5 V
UP
PTT
GND
FAST
PHONES Jack
This 1/4-inch, 3-contact jack accepts either monaural or
stereo headphones with 2- or 3-contact plugs. When a
plug is inserted, the loudspeaker is disabled. The audio
level varies according to the setting of the front panel’s
AF knob.
POWER Switch
Press and hold in the POWER switch for one second to
turn to the transceiver on or off.
While the transceiver is turned on, pressing this switch
momentarily will engage the “Fast Tuning” mode, to allow more rapid frequency navigation (a small “running
man” icon will be observed in the bottom right-hand
corner of the LCD).
[F]
Key
Press this key momentarily to enable the changing of the
function of the Multi Function keys ([A], [B], and [C])
by the MEM/VFO CH knob.
Press and hold this key for one second to activate the
“Menu” mode.
LOCK Key
Pressing this key locks the front panel keys so as to prevent accidental frequency change. The LOCK key itself, though, will never be disabled.
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.
AF Knob
The (inner) VOL 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) SQL/RF knob adjusts
the gain of the receiver’s RF and IF stages. Using Menu
Mode No-080 [SQL/RF GAIN], 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.”
CLAR/IF SHIFT Key
Pressing this key activates the Receiver Clarifier feature. When this feature is activated, the CLAR knob is
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 one second to activate the IF
Shift feature, which allows you to use the MEM/VFO
CH knob to adjust the center frequency of the IF filter’s
passband response.
Page 12 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
CLAR Knob
This knob tunes the clarifier offset frequency up to ±9.99
kHz, when the Receiver Clarifier feature is activated by
pressing the CLAR/IF SHIFT key.
BAND(DWN)/BAND(UP) Key
Pressing either of these keys momentarily will cause the
frequency to be moved up or down by one frequency
band. The selections available are:
…1.8 MHz 3.5 MHz 7.0 MHz 10 MHz
14 MHz 15 MHz 18 MHz 24 MHz 28
MHz 50 MHz 88 MHz 108 MHz 144
MHz 430 MHz 1.8 MHz …
Recalling the 5 MHz band (U.S. model) requires different procedure. See page 23 for details.
MEM/VFO CH Knob
This detented rotary switch is used for VFO frequency
tuning, memory selection, and function selection for the
[A], [B], [C]
keys of the transceiver.
DSP Button
Pressing this button momentarily provides instant access
to Multi Function Row “p” (MFp), which contains the
command key for the receiver’s Digital Signal Processing system. The available functions will appear as the
functions displayed above the [A], [B], and [C] keys, as
described previously.
HOME Key
Pressing this key momentarily recalls a favorite “Home”
frequency memory.
V/M Key
Pressing this key switches frequency control between the
VFO and Memory Systems.
MODE()/MODE() Key
Pressing either of these keys momentarily will change
the operating mode. The selections available are:
… USB LSB CW CWR
AM DIG PKT USB …
DSP Indicator
This indicator glows green when the DSP feature is activated.
TRANSMIT/BUSY Indicator
This indicator glows green when the squelch opens, and
turns red during transmit.
CW-T Indicator
This indicator is a visual tinning indicator for CW reception, which glows green in synchronization with a
signal tuned to the center of the IF passband during CW
reception.
BATT-A, BATT-B Indicator
These LEDs indicate the battery status for the optional
FNB-78 Ni-MH battery pack while internal battery operation.
The LED glows green when the battery pack is waiting
(switch to off by the A-B switch on the top panel), and
turns orange when the is the battery pack en the radio operate the corresponded battery pack by the A-B switch on
the top panel. When the battery voltage is approaching the
value which indicates depletion is near, the LED blinks
orange, indicating it is time to replace the batteries.
CTCSS/DCS Status
: CTCSS ENC Active (Split Tone “ON”)
: CTCSS ENC Active (Split Tone “OFF”)
: CTCSS ENC/DCS DEC Active (Split Tone “ON”)
: CTCSS ENC/DEC (Tone Squelch) Active (Split Tone “ON”)
: DCS ENC Active (Split Tone “ON”)
: DCS ENC Active (Split Tone “OFF”)
: DCS ENC/DEC Active (Split Tone “ON”)
: DCS ENC/CTCSS DEC Active (Split Tone “ON”)
: CTCSS ENC/DEC (Tone Squelch) Active (Split Tone “OFF”)
: DCS ENC/DEC Active (Split Tone “OFF”)
: Odd Split
: Minus Shift
: Plus Shift
VFO A/B or
Memory CH Number
Transverter Mode
Operating Frequency
Meter Status
: S meter
: PO meter
: Modulation Meter
: SWR Meter
: ALC Meter
LCD Details
Multi Function Key Status
Operating Mode
APO Active
DCS Active
: IPO Active
: ATT Active
: VOX Active
: Priority Active
: Dual Receive Active
Battery Operation
Supply Voltage
: ATAS-100/-120 or FC-30 Active
: HI SWR (more the “3.0”)
: HI Temperature
: IF SHIFT Active
: Clarifier Active
: Key Lock “ON”
/ : Fast Tuning Step
Page 13FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
The [A], [B], and [C] keys select many of the most important operating features of the transceiver. When you press
the [F] key, then rotate the MEM/VFO CH knob, the current function of that key will appear above each of the [A],
[B]
, and [C] keys (along the bottom of the LCD). You may
scroll the display through 17 rows of functions available for
use via the [A], [B], and [C] keys.
BATT-A
BATT-B
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
FDIAL
Multi Function Row “a” (MFa) [A/B, A=B, SPL
[A]
Key: A/B
Press the [A](A/B) key to switch between VFO-A and VFO-B on the display.
[B]
Key: A=B
Press the [B](A=B) key to copy the contents of Main VFO to be copied into the Sub VFO, so that the two VFO’s
contents will be identical.
[C]
Key: SPL
Press the [C](SPL) key to activate Split frequency operation between VFO-A and VFO-B.
]
MEM/VFO CH
Multi Function Row “b” (MFb) [MW, SKIP, TAG
[A]
Key: MW
Press and hold in the [A](MW) key for one second to transfer the contents of the VFO into a Memory register.
[B]
Key: SKIP
Press the [B](SKIP) key to designate the current Memory channel to be “skipped” during scanning.
[C]
Key: TAG
Press the [C](TAG) key to select the display type (Frequency or Alpha-numeric Tag) during Memory operation.
]
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
Multi Function Row “c” (MFc) [STO, RCL, PROC
[A]
Key: STO
Press the [A](STO) key to store the contents of the VFO into the QMB (Quick Memory Bank) register.
[B]
Key: RCL
Press the [B](RCL) key to recall the QMB Memory.
[C]
Key: PROC
Press the [C](PROC) key to activate the speech processor for SSB and AM transmission.
Press and hold in the [C](PROC) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-074 [PROC LEVEL] (for setting the
compression level of the AF Speech Processor).
]
Multi Function Row “d” (MFd) [RPT, REV, VOX
[A]
Key: RPT
Press the [A](RPT) key to select the direction of the uplink frequency shift (+, –, or simplex) during FM repeater
operation.
Press and hold in the [A](RPT) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-076 [RPT SHIFT] (for setting the shift
frequency offset).
[B]
Key: REV
Press the [B](REV) key to reverse the transmit and receive frequencies while working through a repeater.
[C]
Key: VOX
Press the [C](VOX) key enable the VOX (voice-operated transmitter switching system) in the SSB, AM, and FM modes.
Press and hold in the [C](VOX) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-088 [VOX GAIN] (for setting the VOX gain
level).
]
Page 14 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
Multi Function Row “e” (MFe) [TON, -------, TDCH
[A]
Key: TON/ENC
Press the [A](TON) key to activate CTCSS or DCS operation on FM.
When the Split Tone feature is activated via Menu Mode No-079 [SPLIT TONE], this key function changes to “ENC” for
activation of the CTCSS Encoder or DCS Encoder. Press the [A](ENC) key to activate the encoder.
Press and hold in the [A](TON/ENC) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-083 [TONE FREQ] (for selecting the
CTCSS tone frequency).
[B]
Normally, this key does nothing.
When the Split Tone feature is activated via Menu Mode No-079 [SPLIT TONE], this key function changes to “DEC” to
engage the DCS or CTCSS Decoder. Press the [B](DEC) key to activate the decoder.
Press and hold in the [B](DEC) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-033 [DCS CODE] (for selecting the DCS
code).
[C]
Press the [C](TDCH) key to initiate CTCSS Tone or DCS Search.
------
Key:
/DEC
Key: TDCH
] ([
ENC, DEC, TDCH
])
Multi Function Row “f” (MFf) [ARTS, SRCH, PMS
[A]
Key: ARTS
Press the [A](ARTS) key to initiate the Auto-Range Transponder mode.
Press and hold in the [A](ARTS) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-008 [ARTS BEEP] (for selecting the ARTS
“Beep” option).
[B]
Key: SRCH
Press the [B](SRCH) key to activate the Smart Search feature.
Press the [B](SRCH) key to initiate Smart Search scanning.
[C]
Key: PMS
Press the [C](PMS) key to activate the Programmable Memory Scan feature.
]
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
Multi Function Row “g” (MFg) [SCN, PRI, DW
[A]
Key: SCN
Press the [A](SCN) key to initiate the Scanning (in the direction of higher frequencies).
[B]
Key: PRI
Press the [B](PRI) key to activate the Priority Scan feature.
[C]
Key: DW
Press the [C](DW) key to activate the Dual Watch feature.
]
Multi Function Row “h” (MFh) [SCOP, WID, STEP
[A]
Key: SCOP
Press the [A](SCOP) key to activate the Spectrum Scope Monitor feature.
Press and hold in the [A](SCOP) key for one second to initiate the Spectrum Scope.
[B]
Key: WID
Press the [B](WID) key to select the visible bandwidth for the Spectrum Scope Monitor.
Press and hold in the [B](WID) key for one second to select the operating mode for the Spectrum Scope Monitor.
[C]
Key: STEP
Press the [C](STEP) key to select the channel steps for Spectrum Scope Monitor.
Press and hold in the [C](STEP) key for one second to activate the MAX HOLD feature, which will display and hold the
peak signal strength level for each channel.
]
Page 15FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
Multi Function Row “i” (MFi) [MTR, --------, DISP
[A]
Key: MTR
Pressing the [A](MTR) key repeatedly allows selection of the display function of the meter in the transmit mode.
PWR « ALC « SWR « MOD « PWR
The selected function will appear above the [B] key.
Press and hold in the [A](MTR) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-062 [MTR PEAK HOLD] (for setting the
“Peak-Hold” function of the meter).
[B]
Key
Pressing the [B] key repeatedly allows selection of the display function of the meter in the transmit mode.
PWR « MOD « SWR « ALC « PWR
[C]
Key: DISP
Press the [C](DISP) key to switch the display between the Large Character and Small Character modes.
……
……
]
Multi Function Row “j” (MFj) [SPOT, BK, KYR
[A]
Key: SPOT
Press the [A](SPOT) key to activate the CW spotting heterodyne oscillator.
[B]
Key: BK
Press the [B](BK) key to disable the CW “Semi” break-in operation.
Press and hold in the [B](BK) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-029 [CW SIDE TONE] (for setting the CW
side tone volume level).
[C]
Key: KYR
Press the [C](KYR) key to activate the built-in Electronic Keyer.
Press and hold in the [C](KYR) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-030 [CW SPEED] (for setting the Keyer
speed).
]
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
Multi Function Row “k” (MFk) [TUNE, DOWN, UP
[A]
Key: TUNE
Press the [A](TUNE) key to activate the optional FC-30 Automatic Antenna Tuner or ATAS-100/-120 Active-Tuning
Antenna System.
Press and hold in the [A](TUNE) key for one second to initiate tuner or antenna retuning.
[B]
Key: DOWN
Press and hold in the [B](DOWN) key to lower the ATAS-100/-120 antenna manually.
[C]
Key: UP
Press and hold in the [C](UP) key to raise the ATAS-100/-120 antenna manually.
]
Multi Function Row “l” (MFl) [NB, AGC, --------
[A]
Key: NB
Press the [A](NB) key to activate the receiver’s IF Noise Blanker.
Press and hold in the [A](NB) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No-63 [NB LEVEL] (for setting of the NB level).
[B]
Key: AGC
Press the [B](AGC) key to disable the receiver’s AGC system. Normally, the AGC should be left On.
[C]
Key
Press the [C] key to select the recovery time (Slow, Fast, or Auto) for the receiver’s AGC system.
Multi Function Row “m” (MFm) [IPO, ATT, NAR
[A]
Key: IPO
Press the [A](IPO) key to bypass the receiver preamplifier, thereby activating Intercept Point Optimization for improved
overload characteristics while operating on the HF and 50 MHz bands.
The IPO feature does not function on 144/430 MHz.
[B]
Key: ATT
Press the [B](ATT) 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.
[C]
Key: NAR
Press the [C](NAR) key to select the low-deviation mode required for HF FM operation on 29 MHz.
]
]
Page 16 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
FRONT PANEL CONTROL & SWITCHES
[A][B][C]
[A][B][C]
Multi Function Row “n” (MFn) [CFIL,--------,--------
[A]
Key: CFIL
Press the [A](CFIL) key to select the 2.4 kHz ceramic IF filter.
[B]
Key
Press the [B] key to select the optional IF filter which is located on the “FIL-1” (Optional Filter 1) slot on the Main Unit.
When an optional filter is not installed on the“FIL-1” slot, this key function is disabled, and its label is “N/A.”
[C]
Key
Press the [C] key to select the optional IF filter which is located on the “FIL-2” (Optional Filter 2) slot on the Main Unit.
When an optional filter is not installed on the“FIL-2” slot, this key function is disabled, and its label is “N/A.”
]
Multi Function Row “o” (MFo) [PLY1, PLY2, PLY3
[A]
Key: PLY1
Press the [A](PLY1) key to send the CW message which is memorized in BEACON TEXT 1.
[B]
Key: PLY2
Press the [B](PLY2) key to send the CW message which is memorized in Keyer BEACON TEXT 2.
[C]
Key: PLY3
Press the [C](PLY3) key to send the CW message which is memorized in Keyer BEACON TEXT 3.
]
Multi Function Row “p” (MFp) [DNR, DNF, DBF
[A]
Key: DNR
Press the [A](DNR) key to activate the DSP Noise Reduction system.
Press and hold in the [A](DNR) key for one second recall Menu Mode No-049 [DSP NR LEVEL] (for setting the degree
of DSP Noise Reduction).
[B]
Key: DNF
Press the [B](DNF) key to activate the DSP’s Auto Notch Filter.
[C]
Key: DBF
Press the [C](DBF) key to activate the DSP’s receiver Bandpass Filter.
In the SSB, AM, FM, and AFSK modes, press and hold in the [C](DBF) key for one second to recall Menu Mode No047 [DSP LPF CUTOFF] (for adjusting the high-frequency cutoff of the DSP Bandpass Filter).
In the CW mode, press and hold in the [C](DBF) key for one second to recall Menu Item No-045 [DSP BPF WIDTH]
(for setting the CW bandwidth).
]
[A][B][C]
Multi Function Row “q” (MFq) [MONI, QSPL, ATC
[A]
Key: MONI
Press the [A](MONI) key to disable the Noise Squelch.
You may program the configuration of this key by the Menu Mode No-065 [PG A].
[B]
Key: QSPL
Press the [B](QSPL) key to change the Sub VFO frequency (Main VFO frequency + 5 kHz) and automatically engage
the “Split” feature.
You may program the configuration of this key by the Menu Mode No-066 [PG B].
[C]
Key: ATC
Press the [C](ATC) key to activate a 1750-Hz burst tone for 2 seconds when pressing the PTT switch while the channel
is clear.
You may program the configuration of this key by the Menu Mode No-067 [PG C].
]
Page 17FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
REAR PANEL CONNECTORS
T
INPUT 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 DC power supply,
which must be capable of supplying at least 22A @ 13.8
VDC. For base station operation, the optional FP-30
External AC power supply may be attached to the bottom of the transceiver and connect the output pigtail of
the FP-30 to this jack.
GND Terminal
For best performance and safety, this Ground lug may
be connected to a good earth ground using a short, heavy,
braided cable.
CAT/LINEAR Jack
This 8-pin mini-DIN jack is used for connection to the
FC-30 External Automatic Antenna Tuner or ATAS-100/
-120 Active-Tuning Antenna System. It is also used for
interfacing to a personal computer for control of the transceiver using the CA T system, and for interconnection
to the VL-1000 Linear Amplifier.
TX INH
RX D
TX D
TX GND
CAT
RESE
/TUNER
BAND C
GND
+13.8V
BAND B
BAND A
TX GND
TX INH
BAND D
BAND C
GND
+13.8V
LINEAR
ACC Jack
This 3.5-mm 3-pin jack accepts external ALC (Automatic
Level Control) voltage from a linear amplifier on the tip
connection, and accepts a “Transmit Request” command
on the ring connection. The main shaft is the ground return.
The “TX Request” connection, when shorted to ground,
puts the FT-897D into the transmit mode, and sends out
a steady CW carrier, for linear amplifier or manual antenna tuner adjustment.
EXT ALC GND
TX REQ
KEY Jack
This 3.5-mm, 3-pin jack is used for connection to a CW
keyer paddle or a straight key.
EXT SPKR Jack
This 3.5-mm, 2-pin jack provides variable audio output
for an external speaker. The audio output impedance at
this jack is 4 Ω ~ 16 Ω and the level varies according to
the setting of the front panel’s AF control.
SIGNAL GND
DATA Jack
This 6-pin, mini-DIN jack accepts AFSK input from a
Terminal Node Controller (TNC); it also provides fixedlevel Receiver Audio Output, Push-To-Talk (PTT),
Squelch Status, and ground lines.
SQL
DATA OUT
9600bps
GND
DATA
DATA OUT
1200bps
PTT
DATA IN
144/430 MHz Antenna Jack
Connect your 144 and/or 430 MHz antenna’s 50 Ω coaxial cable to this M-type (“SO-239”) connector.
HF/50 MHz Antenna Jack
Connect your HF and/or 50 MHz antenna’s 50 Ω coaxial cable to this M-type (“SO-239”) connector.
Page 18 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
TOP & BOTTOM PANEL CONNECTORS
Top Panel Switch
Bottom Panel Connector
A-B Switch
Selects the battery pack to be used, when you have installed two optional FNB-78 Ni-MH battery packs into
the FT-897D.
METER Jack
This 3.5-mm 2-pin jack is used for connection to an analog meter (not produced by Vertex Standard).
Please refer to the MENU No-060 and No-061.
SIGNAL GND
Page 19FT-897D 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-897D. I know you’re 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
To turn the transceiver on, press and hold in the POWER
Ì
switch for one second.
To turn the transceiver off, again press and hold in the
Ì
POWER switch for one second.
BATT-A
BATT-B
POWER
When you are operating the FT-897D with the
optional FP-30 External power supply, always
turn on the MAIN switch on the FP-30 before
turning on the POWER switch on the FT-897D. When shutting down, please turn off the POWER switch on the FT897D before turning off the MAIN switch on the FP-30.
OPERATING 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 frequency 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
BAND(DWN) or BAND(UP) key to move to the next lower
or higher operating band, respectively.
BATT-A
BATT-B
BAND
5 MHz
7 MHz
3.5 MHz
1.8 MHz
10 MHz
BAND
UP
14 MHz
15 MHz
18 MHz
21 MHz
LCD Contrast
If you experience difficulty in reading the main display,
try adjusting the LCD’s contrast, using the Menu mode.
1. Press and hold in the [F] button for one second to
activate the Menu mode.
2. Rotate the MEM/VFO CH knob to select Menu
Mode No-042 [DISP CONTRAST].
3. Rotate the DIAL knob to adjust the contrast. As you
make the adjustment, you will be able to see the effects of you changes.
4. When you have completed the adjustment, press and
430 MHz
108 MHz
88 MHz
50 MHz
1) Recalling the 5 MHz band (U.S. model) requires different procedure. See page 23 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 22 for details.
24.5 MHz
28 MHz144 MHz
hold in the [F] button for one second to exit the Menu
mode.
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 begins on page
54; for now, here is a brief discussion on how to change Menu settings:
1. Press and hold in the [F] key for one second to enter
the Menu mode.
2. Rotate the MEM/VFO CH knob to recall the Menu
Item to be changed (for example, Menu Mode No-001
[
EXT MENU], which Enables or Disables the “Extended
Menu” Mode).
3. Rotate the DIAL knob to set this feature (in this example, the default setting is “OFF (Disabled),” so rotate the DIAL knob to set this feature to “ON” (Enabled).
4. Press and hold in the [F] key for one second to save
the new setting and exit to normal operation.
If you have momentarily pressed the [F] key
to enable the changing of the function of the
Multi Function keys ([A], [B], and [C]) by
the MEM/VFO CH knob.
BATT-A
BATT-B
FDIAL
MEM/VFO CH
Page 20 FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
OPERATION
MODE SELECTION
Press either the MODE() or MODE() key to move
among the eight settings for the operating modes, respectively.
BATT-A
BATT-B
MODE
LSB USB CW CWR
AMFMDIGPKT
where “CWR” is “CW-Reverse,” using the opposite sideband from the “default” BFO injection sideband (in most
cases, the default injection sideband is on the “USB” side);
“DIG” is an AFSK-based Digital mode, set up per Menu
Mode No-038 [DIG MODE]; and “PKT” represents either
1200 or 9600 bps FM packet.
You can set VFOa and VFOb to different modes
in the same band, allowing you to have a
“Phone” VFO and a “CW” VFO, for example.
MODE
ADJUSTING THE RF GAIN AND SQUELCH
The SQL/RF Gain control is configured differently, depending on the country to which the FT-897D has been exported.
In the U.S. version, the default function of this control is
“RF Gain.” The configuration of the SQL/RF Gain control
is set via Menu Mode No-080 [SQL/RF GAIN]; see page 62
for details.
BATT-A
BATT-B
SQL/RF
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 RF Gain 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 “Squelch,”
even though the setting of Menu Mode No-080 [SQL/RF
GAIN] is “RF Gain.” But if you set it this way, the SQL/RF
control has no effect on FM.
ADJUSTING THE AUDIO VOLUME LEVEL
Rotate the AF knob to set a comfortable listening level.
BATT-A
BATT-B
AF
When operating in the “DIG” or “PKT” modes, you may
set the AF knob to any comfortable setting, or even all the
way off, because the output from the DATA jack is a fixed-
level audio signal.
Start with the AF knob set fully counter-clockwise, especially when using FM (the background noise on FM can be surprisingly loud)!
More accurately, this should say:
In the FM and Packet modes, with “RF Gain” selected, the
FT-897D goes into an “Auto Squelch” mode, with the
Squelch level being preset at the factory.
If this control is configured for “SQL” operation, the FT-
897D’s RF Gain will be set for maximum sensitivity in all
modes, and the SQL/RF Gain control will function solely
as a Squelch control. In this case, rotate the SQL/RF Gain
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.
Page 21FT-897D OPERATING MANUAL
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