YAESU FT-920 Operating Manual
FT-920
OPERATING
MANUAL
YAESU MUSEN CO., LTD.
1-20-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-Ku, Tokyo 146-8649, Japan
YAESU U.S.A.
17210 Edwards Rd., Cerritos, CA 90703, U.S.A.
YAESU EUROPE B.V.
Snipweg 3, 1118DN Schiphol, The Netherlands
YAESU UK LTD.
Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Trading Estate
Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.
YAESU GERMANY GmbH
Am Kronberger Hang 2, D-65824 Schwalbach, Germany
YAESU HK LTD.
11th Floor Tsim Sha Tsui Centre, 66 Mody Rd.,
Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Table of Contents
General Description ......................................................... 1
Specifications ................................................................... 2
Accessories & Options ................................................... 4
Plug Pinout ...................................................................... 5
Installation ........................................................................ 6
Preliminary Inspection ................................................. 6
DC Power Connections ............................................... 6
Transceiver Location ................................................... 8
Grounding .................................................................... 8
Antenna Considerations .............................................. 9
Memory Backup .......................................................... 9
Adjusting the Front Feet ................................................10
Safety Precautions............................................................ 11
1. Power Connections ................................................ 11
2. Ground Connections .............................................. 11
3. Electrical Shock Prevention ................................... 11
4. Antenna Precautions ................................................11
5. RF Field Exposure Advisory
and Electromagnetic Compatibility .................. 12
Accessory Installation ..................................................... 13
1. Lineae Amplifier Interfacing ................................... 13
2. Digital Modem Interfacing (TNC, WeatherFax, etc.)...16
3. Other Digital/Recording Device Interfacing ...............17
4. CW Key/Paddle and Computer Keying
Interface Suggestions .................................... 18
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks ..................... 20
Display Panel Indicators and Icons ............................... 28
Rear Panel Connectors and Switches ........................... 32
Bottom Panel ................................................................... 34
Operation .......................................................................... 35
Before You Start ......................................................... 35
Receiving ..................................................................... 35
Antenna Selection ................................................. 35
Bandwidth Selection .............................................. 37
Amateur Band Selection ....................................... 37
Direct Keypad Frequency Entry ............................ 38
Stacked VFO System ........................................... 38
Frequency Navigation ............................................ 38
VFO Tuning Dial ............................................. 39
Shuttle Jog (VFO-A) ....................................... 39
Front Panel Up/Down Switches ...................... 39
MH-31B8 Hand MicUP/DWN/FST Switches ...... 39
MD-100A8X Desk Microphone
Rotary Scanning Switch ............................ 39
LOCK Switches ................................................. 39
Operating Convenience Features ...........................40
Display Brightness Control .............................. 40
Keypad Beep Frequency/Level ....................... 40
Receiver Accessories ............................................ 41
Clarifier (Offset Tuning) ................................... 41
CW Center Tuning (Enhanced Tuning Scale) ...41
CW SPOT ......................................................... 41
RF Preamplifier Selections ............................. 41
AGC Selection ................................................ 42
Squelch ........................................................... 42
General Coverage Reception .......................... 42
Dealing with Interference ...................................... 43
SHIFT Control ................................................... 43
HIGH CUT/LOW CUT Controls (DSP) .................. 43
NOTCH Filter (DSP) .......................................... 44
RF GAIN Control .............................................. 44
IF Noise Blanker (NB) .................................... 44
DSP Noise Reduction (NR) ............................ 44
Tools for Strong-Signal
andLow-Frequency Operation .................. 45
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) .................. 45
ATT (Front End Attenuator) ............................ 46
Digital Voice Recorder Operation (DVR) ........ 46
Transmitting ................................................................. 47
Automatic Antenna Matching ................................ 47
SSB Transmission ................................................. 49
Basic Operation ............................................... 49
VOX Operation ................................................ 49
Digital Speech Processor Operation ............... 49
DSP Voice Pattern Contours ......................... 50
Voice Monitor Operation ................................. 50
Digital Voice Recorder Operation (Transmit) .. 50
Linear Amplifier Tuning ............................................... 51
CW Transmission .................................................. 51
Straight Key Operation .................................... 51
Electronic Keyer Operation ............................. 52
Memory Keyer Operation ................................ 52
Tips for Successful CW Memory Keyer Operation ..... 53
Split Frequency Operation .................................... 54
TX CLARifier Operation .................................... 53
Split VFO Operation ........................................ 54
Quick Split Feature ......................................... 54
Mode K Satellite Operation ............................. 55
Digital Mode Operation ......................................... 55
AFSK RTTY or Packet Operation .................. 56
FSK RTTY Operation ...................................... 56
AM Transmission .................................................. 57
Basic Operation ............................................... 57
FM Operation ........................................................ 58
Simplex (Non-Repeater) Operation ................. 58
Repeater Operation ......................................... 58
Memory Operation ........................................................... 59
QMB Channel Programming/Recall ............................. 59
Memory Operation on “Regular” Memory Channels
(Channel #1-01 to 1-99) ........................................ 60
Memory Operation on Split-Frequency Channels
(Channel #d-01 to d-10) ........................................ 62
Memory Operation on “CALL” Channels
(Channel #C-01 to C-11) ...................................... 63
Adding Alpha-Numeric Labels to Memory Channels .. 64
Memory Mode Accessories ......................................... 65
Moving Memory Data to VFO-A ........................... 65
Deleting Data from a Memory Channel ................ 65
Scanning Operation ......................................................... 66
Scanning Operation ..................................................... 66
Scan Skip Programming (Memory Mode Only) .......... 66
Programmable Memory Scan (PMS) Operation ......... 66
Scan-Resume Choices ................................................ 67
Dual Watch Operation ..................................................... 68
Menu Operation ............................................................... 69
Normal Menu Operation .............................................. 69
Panel Menu Operation ................................................ 70
Quick Menu Operation ................................................ 70
Menu Mode Selections and Settings .......................... 73
VHF/UHF Transverter Operation ..................................... 84
Phone Pacth Operation ................................................... 85
Computer-Aided Transceiver
(
CAT
Memory Backup ............................................................... 91
Microprocessor Resetting ............................................... 92
Installation of Optional Accessories .............................. 93
Data Protocol .................................................... 88
CAT
Constructing Sending CAT Commands ...................... 88
Downloading FT-920 Data ........................................... 89
14-Byte Frequency Data Record Structure ................. 90
Bottom Case Removal ................................................ 93
Installation of Optional Filters YF-116C/YF-116A ....... 94
Installation of High-Stability Oscillator TCXO-7 ........... 94
Installation of FM Unit FM-1 ....................................... 94
) System Protocol ......... 86
General Description
Congratulations on the purchase of your Yaesu FT-920! Whether this is your first rig, or if Yaesu equipment is
already the backbone of your amateur radio station, it is our sincere hope that you will derive many years of
operating enjoyment from your new transceiver.
The FT-920 is a state-of-the-art amateur transceiver incorporating a multitude of advanced features to give you
the competitive edge in a wide variety of operating applications. The FT-920 offers up to 100 Watts of adjustable
power output on all amateur bands between 160 meters and 6 meters (25 Watts carrier in the AM mode),
utilizing rugged, low-distortion MOS FET final amplifier transistors. Operation in the SSB, CW, AM, AFSK, and
FSK modes is built in, and an FM module is available as an option.
Yaesu’ s renowned Omni-Glow™ LCD display provides a wealth of information regarding transceiver status, and
it includes enhanced tuning aids for many operating applications.
The built-in high-speed automatic antenna tuner may be utilized both on receive and transmit, providing improved impedance matching for the transmitter and protection from out-of-band signals on receive. A built-in
Digital Voice Recorder allows storage and playback of incoming signals, and also allows you to store up to four
repetitive messages (such as “CQ Contest. . .”) of up to 16 seconds each. And the Electronic Memory Keyer
also provides storage of CW messages, including incremented, imbedded contest numbers, to reduce operator
fatigue in contests. Independent KEY jacks on the front and rear panels allow connection of keyer paddles to one
jack and a computer or straight key to the other, for optimum contest work. A CW Pitch control and Spot tone
provide efficiency in operating, and both full QSK and semi-break-in CW (VOX switching) are provided.
The receiver section is highlighted by the high-performance Digital Signal Processing filters, which provide
razor-sharp selectivity, an automatic seeking Notch filter, and Noise Reduction. The high-intercept front end
circuitry includes ten input bandpass filters with PIN diode switching, optimized RF preamplifiers for both high
and low bands, and Intercept Point Optimization (IPO) for high-signal, high-noise environments. A separate
receive-only antenna jack is provided, in addition to the two main TX/RX jacks, for connection of a Beverage or
other low-noise receiving antenna.
Yaesu’s exclusive Shuttle Jog tuning dial provides simple yet quick frequency excursions around the band.
Independent tuning knobs for the two VFOs join direct keyboard frequency entry, one-touch band change, and
extensive scanning capabilities to make the FT-920 a joy to use. And the FT-920’s extensive memory system,
sporting 99 regular memories, ten split-frequency memories, five QMB (Quick Memory Bank) channels, and an
easy-access “CALL” channel for each band, provides the utmost in operating ease. Each of the memories (except the QMB channels) can be assigned an alpha-numeric label of up to seven characters, to aid in memory
channel identification.
A host of convenience features is provided, including a Digital Speech Processor, SSB monitor circuit, all-mode
Squelch, VOX, and a continuously-variable RF power control. Yaesu’s CAT System for external computer control includes a built-in RS-232C level converter and DB-9 serial port on the rear panel, for easy connection to
your home computer. And the extensive Menu system allow the owner to configure literally dozens of transceiver
performance characteristics, such as voice audio response patterns, keyer weight, tuning steps, and power
output to be applied to each antenna jack. The FT-920 clearly is the cost-performance leader in the Amateur
Radio industry today!
Please take some time to familiarize yourself with the many features available in the FT-920, as described in the
pages to follow. At Yaesu, we appreciate your investment in this fine transceiver, and we hope that you will take
the time to read this manual thoroughly so as to get the most out of your new FT-920!
FT-920 Operating Manual
1
Specifications
General
Receiving Frequency Range: 100 kHz ~ 30 MHz, 48 ~ 56 MHz
Transmitting Frequency Range: 160 ~ 6 Meter Amateur Bands
Operating Temperature Range: -10º ~ +50º C
Frequency Stability: ±10 ppm; ±2 ppm w/TCXO-7
Frequency Accuracy: < ±7 ppm (FM within ± 500 Hz)
w/TCXO-7: < ±3.5 ppm (FM within ± 460 Hz)
Emission Modes: USB/LSB, CW, AM, FM, FSK, AFSK
Frequency Steps: 1 Hz/10 Hz/100 Hz for SSB/CW/FSK/AFSK
10 Hz/100 Hz/1000 Hz for AM/FM
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ω, unbalanced
Antenna Tuner Matching Range: 16.5 Ω ~ 150 Ω
Power Consumption: Input Rx (no signal) Rx (Signal present) Tx (100W)
13.5 VDC 2.0A 2.5A 22A
Supply Voltage: 13.5 VDC (±10%), negative ground
Dimensions: 410(W) x 135(H) x 316(D) mm
Transmitter
Power Output: 160 m ~ 10 m amateur bands
Adjustable up to 100 Watts (25 Watts AM carrier)
6 m amateur band
Adjustable up to 100/10 Watts (25/2.5 Watts AM carrier)
Modulation Types: SSB: J3E Balanced, filtered carrier
AM: A3E Low-level (early stage), (w/optional YF-116A AM Filter)
FM: F3E Variable reactance PM
FSK: J1D/J2D Audio-Frequency-Shifted Keying
Maximum FM Deviation: ±2.5 kHz (narrow), ±5.0 kHz (wide)
FSK Shift Frequencies: 170, 425, and 850 Hz
Packet Shift Frequency: 200 Hz
Harmonic Radiation: At least 50 dB below peak output (HF)
At least 60 dB below peak output (VHF)
SSB Carrier Suppression: At least 40 dB below peak output
Undesired Sideband Suppression: At least 50 dB below peak output
Audio Response (SSB, DSP Off): Not more than -6 dB from 400 to 2600 Hz
SSB 3rd-order IMD: -31 dB or better @ 100 Watts PEP (14 MHz)
Microphone Impedance: 500 Ω ~ 600 Ω
2
FT-920 Operating Manual
Specifications
Receiver
Circuit Type: Double-conversion Superheterodyne (FM: Triple-conversion)
Intermediate Frequencies: 68.985 MHz
8.215 MHz
455 kHz (FM)
Sensitivity: Frequency
150 ~ 250 kHz 5 µV 40 µV —
250 ~ 500 kHz 4 µV 32 µV —
0.5 ~ 1.8 MHz 2 µV 16 µV —
1.8 ~ 24.5 MHz 0.20 µV 2 µV 0.5 µV
24.5 ~ 54 MHz 0.13 µV 1.3 µV 0.25 µV
IF Selectivity (-6/-60 dB): SSB, CW, FSK, AFSK 2.4 kHz/5.0 kHz
CW 500 Hz/1.8 kHz (w/optional YF-116C CW Filter)
AM 6 kHz/14 kHz (w/optional YF-116A AM Filter)
FM 12 kHz/25 kHz (w/optional FM-1 FM Unit)
Squelch Sensitivity (IPO Off): SSB/CW/Digital/AM: <2.0 µV
FM (28-56 MHz): <0.32 µV
IF Rejection: >70 dB (HF)
>50 dB (VHF)
Image Rejection: >70 dB (1.8 ~ 56 MHz)
IF Shift Range: ±1.2 kHz
DSP Notch Depth: >35 dB
Audio Output: 1.5 W into 4 Ω with <10% THD (Speaker)
100 mV @ 600 Ω (Digital, fixed level)
Audio Output Impedance (SPKR): 4 Ω ~ 8 Ω
SSB/CW/Dig.(2.4 kHz) AM (6 kHz) FM (28 MHz +)
(With Preamp On, for 10 dB S+N/N or 12 dB FM SINAD)
Automatic Antenna Tuner
Impedance Range: 16.7 Ω ~ 150 Ω (1.8 ~ 30 MHz)
25.0 Ω ~ 100 Ω (50 ~ 54 MHz)
Frequency Range: 160 m ~ 6 m amateur bands
Matching Time: <30 seconds
Matched SWR: <1.4:1
Specifications are subject to change, in the interest of technical improvement, without notice or obligation. Specifications
are guaranteed only within Amateur bands.
FT-920 Operating Manual
3
Accessories & Options
Supplied Accessories
Item Quantity
MH-31B8 Hand Microphone.................................. 1
DC Cable fused for 25 Amps................................ 1
Spare 25 Amp Fuse.............................................. 1
Available Options
MD-100
FM-1 FM Unit
YF-116C 500 Hz CW Filter
YF-116A 6 kHz AM Filter
TCXO-7 High-Stability Reference Oscillator Unit (2 ppm)
FP-1025A AC Power Supply, Switching Regulator Type (25A) (USA only)
FP-1030A AC Power Supply, Linear Type (25A)
YH-77STA Stereo Headphones
SP-8 External Speaker w/Audio Filters
FL-7000 500 Watt Solid State HF Linear Amplifier
VL-1000 1000 Watt Solid State HF+50 MHz Linear Amplifier
E-767 Band Data + T/R Switching Cable for FL-7000
RCA Connector (P/N P0090544)
2 Pin Miniature Plug (P/N P0090034)
3 Pin Phone Plug (P/N P0090008)
5 Pin DIN Plug (P/N P0091006)
A8X
Desk-Top Microphone
4
FT-920 Operating Manual
Plug Pinout
FT-920 Operating Manual
5
Installation
Preliminary Inspection
Inspect the transceiver upon opening the packing
carton. Check that all controls and switches work
freely , and inspect the cabinet for any cosmetic damage. Ensure that the accessory cable and fuses are
included.
If any damage is found, document it completely, and
contact the shipping company (or Dealer, if you purchased it over-the-counter) right away . Save the packing materials in case you need to return the set for
service.
DC Power Connections
The FT-920 Transceiver is designed for operation
from 13.5 Volts DC, negative ground, with the DC
source being capable of providing 20 Amperes of
continuous current. For base station installations, we
recommend the matching Y aesu FP-1030A AC power
supply, which was specifically designed for compatibility with your FT-920. You can, of course, use another DC source, so long as it is well regulated and
meets the above voltage/current specifications. In any
case, be extremely careful to avoid reversed polarity
connections when installing your FT-920. See the
Caution
box below.
If you are connecting the FP-1030A to the FT-920,
before connecting power, check the label on the rear
of the power supply which indicates the AC line voltage range for which the power supply is currently set.
If your AC line voltage is outside this range, the input
voltage range will need to be re-configured. If you
have any questions about the voltage setting for your
power supply, consult with your dealer before proceeding, as improper connections could cause serious damage not covered by your warranty. See the
documentation accompanying your power supply for
details on the exact procedure required for power
supply AC voltage re-configuration.
Connection of the DC line must be made according
to the instructions below:
The RED DC power lead connects to the Positive
(+) DC terminal; and The BLACK DC power lead
connects to the Negative (-) DC terminal.
Make sure the FT-920’s POWER switch is off, and plug
the DC cable into the 6-pin Molex jack on the rear
panel of the transceiver.
6
Caution
Serious damage can result if improper supply voltage is applied to this transceiver. Your Limited Warranty
does not cover damage caused by the application of AC, reversed polarity DC, or DC outside the specified range of 13.5 V ±10%.
If you wish to use a power supply other than one of Yaesu manufacture, you must make certain that any
DC supply connector to the transceiver matches the FT-920 requirements. See the DC connector pinout
on the previous page. Other manufacturers have power supplies with a physically matched con-
nector that is wired differently; this may cause serious damage to the FT-920.
FT-920 Operating Manual
Installation
FT-920 Operating Manual
7
Installation
Transceiver Location
To ensure long life of the transceiver’s components,
be certain to provide adequate ventilation around the
cabinet of the FT-920. 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 exhaust port.
Do not install this transceiver on top of another heatgenerating device (such as a linear amplifier), and
do not place equipment, books, or papers on top of
the transceiver. Place the radio 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.
Grounding
The FT-920 HF transceiver, like any other HF communications apparatus, requires an effective ground
system for maximum electrical safety and best communications effectiveness. A good ground system can
contribute to station efficiency in a number of ways:
r It can minimize the possibility of electrical shock
to the operator.
r It can minimize RF currents flowing on the
shield of the coaxial cable and the chassis of
the transceiver; such currents may lead to radiation which can cause interference to home
entertainment devices or laboratory test equipment.
r It can minimize the possibility of erratic trans-
ceiver/accessory operation caused by RF feedback and/or improper current flow through logic
devices.
An effective earth ground system make take several
forms; for a more complete discussion, see an appropriate RF engineering text. The information below is intended only as a guideline.
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 positioned 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 cable(s)
to the ground rods. Be sure to weatherproof the con-
nections 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).
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 (TNCs, etc.)
should be made directly to the ground bus using a
heavy, braided cable.
Please note that some types of external power supplies (not of Yaesu manufacture), while otherwise
being suitable for use with the FT-920, may be designed such that the Negative (black) DC output terminal is “floating” (not connected directly to ground).
This may cause erratic operation, especially when
transmitting, due to the potential for ground loops to
form between your antenna system, your station
ground, and your power supply. This potential susceptibility is not unique to the FT-920, and the problem can usually be solved by directly grounding the
Negative DC terminal to the power supply chassis,
which can then be bonded to earth ground; check
first with the power supply manufacturer, though, to
be certain that this grounding technique is acceptable to them.
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.
Inspect the ground system — inside the station as
well as outside — on a regular basis so as to ensure
maximum performance and safety.
8
FT-920 Operating Manual
Installation
Antenna Considerations
The FT-920 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 transceiver’s Automatic Antenna Tuner may not
be able to reduce the impedance mismatch to an
acceptable value if the Standing Wave Ratio (SWR)
present at the Antenna jack is greater than 3:1.
Among the undesirable consequences that high SWR
may produce are:
r The transceiver’s power amplifier protection
circuitry will reduce power if the Automatic
Antenna Tuner is unsuccessful in reducing the
SWR.
r Even if the Automatic Antenna Tuner success-
fully normalizes the impedance presented to
the radio, feedline losses will escalate rapidly
with high SWR at the higher operating frequencies, especially 28 MHz and 50 MHz.
r Although high SWR itself does not cause
feedline radiation, the sudden onset of high
SWR may well indicate a mechanical failure in
a matching device, leading to an electrical condition which
diation, which can cause interference to nearby
home-entertainment devices.
Every effort should, therefore, be made to ensure that
the impedance of the antenna system utilized with
the FT-920 be as close as possible to the specified
50 Ω value.
may
cause excessive feedline ra-
Any antenna to be used with the FT-920 must, ultimately, be fed with 50 Ω coaxial cable. Therefore,
when using a “balanced” antenna such as a dipole,
remember that a balun or other matching/balancing
device must be used so as to ensure proper antenna
performance.
Use high-quality 50 Ω coaxial cable for the lead-in to
your FT-920 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 only 0.5 dB of loss at 7 MHz may have 2 dB
of loss at 28 MHz. For reference, the chart below
shows approximate loss figures for typically-available
coaxial cables frequently used in amateur radio installations.
Memory Backup
The lithium memory BACKUP switch on the rear panel
is turned on at the factory, allowing VFO, memory,
and menu data to be retained while power is off.
Backup current is minuscule, so it is not necessary
to turn the BACKUP switch off unless the transceiver is
to be stored for an extended period.
After five or more years of operation, the transceiver
may fail to retain memories. At this point, the lithium
battery should be replaced. Contact your dealer for
procurement of the battery, and follow the instructions on page 91 for replacement of the battery.
Before completing installation of your FT-920 transceiver, please take the time to review the following
safety guidelines.
Loss in dB per 30m (100 feet) for
Selected 50
(Assumes 50 Ω Input/Output Terminations)
Cable Ty pe Loss: 2 MHz Loss: 15 MHz Loss: 28 MHz
RG-58A a
RG- 58 Foama
RG-8Xa
RG-8A, RG-213a
RG-8 Foama
Belden® 991 3a
RG-17Aa
Loss figures are approximate; consult cable manufacturers’ catalogs for complete specifications.
Loss figures can increase significantly if high SWR is present on
the transmission line.
ΩΩ
Ω Coaxial Cables
ΩΩ
0.55 1.75 2.60
0.54 1.50 2.00
0.39 1.07 1.85
0.27 0.85 1.25
0.22 0.65 0.88
0.18 0.50 0.69
0.08 0.30 0.46
FT-920 Operating Manual
9
Installation
Adjusting the Front Feet
The two front feet of the FT-920 can be set in either
of two positions. By turning the knurled ring around a
(retracted) foot clockwise, the middle of the foot will
extend about one centimeter. Turn the ring as far as
it will go (about ¼ turn) to lock the extended foot in
place. To retract an extended foot, turn the knurled
ring counter-clockwise ¼ turn while pressing on the
center of the foot.
10
FT-920 Operating Manual
Safety Precautions
1. Power Connections
Be certain to follow the guidelines on page 6 carefully so as to ensure that your AC power supply is
configured for the AC line voltage used in your area.
When making DC connections, be absolutely certain
to observe proper polarity in your wiring. Note that
other manufacturers may use the same type of DC
power connector as does Yaesu, but the wiring configuration of the other manufacturer’s plug may be
different from that specified for your transceiver. Accordingly, you should verify the pin configuration of
the plug before attempting to use a non-Yaesu DC
cable of any kind.
2. Ground Connections
Besides following the guidelines presented on page
8 carefully, note that household or industrial gas lines
must
never
be used in an attempt to establish an
electrical ground. Cold water pipes may, in some instances, help in the grounding effort, but gas lines
represent a significant explosion hazard, and should
never be used.
3. Electrical Shock Prevention
Be certain that all station wiring is properly insulated
so as to prevent short-circuits which could damage
this transceiver and/or accessories connected to it.
Be sure to protect power cables from damage due to
abrasion by ensuring that they cannot be walked upon
nor crushed under rolling chairs, etc. Never route
power cables near sharp metallic edges which might
cut through protective insulation.
Never spill liquids into this transceiver, and do not
drop sharp metallic objects into the transceiver enclosure. Electrical shock may result when you attempt
to remove the object.
4. Antenna Precautions
Always install antennas such that they can
come in contact with outdoor power lines in the event
of a catastrophic antenna support or power line support structure failure. An adequate safety margin is
usually
antenna and its support structure [1.5 times the height
of the support]
wires attached to the support]
power line support pole].
Ground the antenna support structure adequately , so
as to dissipate energy absorbed during a lightning
strike. Install appropriate lightning arrestors in the
antenna lead-in and rotator cable (if used) according
to the arrestor’s instructions.
In the event of an approaching electrical storm, disconnect all antenna lead-in, rotator control, and power
cables
storm is not immediately in your area. Do not allow disconnected cables to touch the case of your
FT-920 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
be killed instantly should lightning strike your antenna
structure or a nearby power line.
If a vertical antenna is used, be certain that humans
and/or pets or farm animals are kept away both from
the radiating element (to prevent electrical shock and
RF exposure danger)
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.
provided by separating power lines from the
plus
[the length of any antenna or guy
plus
[the height of the
completely
attempt to disconnect the cables, as you could
from the station, but only if the
and
the ground system (in the
never
Unsupervised children should be kept away from any
electrical apparatus such as the FT-920 transceiver
and its accessories.
FT-920 Operating Manual
11
Safety Precautions
5. RF Field Exposure Advisory and
Electromagnetic Compatibility
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>).
Remember to re-evaluate your station’ s compliance
with these regulations during portable operations such
as Field Day or special-event stations. Note, also,
that power output may be programmed to 50 Watts
(maximum) via Menu Items U-49 and U-50; see page
79 for details.
Regarding 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
nications 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
ensure that sensitive amateur radio receivers will not
experience interference from the device!
Be certain to use only shielded cables for TNC-toTransceiver 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.
your
commu-
not
12
FT-920 Operating Manual
Accessory Installation
1. Linear Amplifier Interfacing
The FT-920 can be used with the (optional) Yaesu
FL-7000 Linear Amplifier, which provides automatic
band switching through the use of digital data sent
via the BAND jack on the rear panel of the transceiver .
Most other commonly-used linear amplifiers may also
be used with the FT-920, so long as the Tx/Rx switching voltages and timing (sequencing) for the
amplifier’s control relay(s) are not extraordinary.
Tx/Rx Control Devices
for Linear Amplifier Switching
Two control devices are provided in the FT-920 for
Tx/Rx control of an linear amplifier’s relay(s).
An open-collector transistor switch provides a
solid-state, fast-acting closure to ground for
low-voltage/low-current situations; maximum
ratings are +50 V DC at 500 mA (maximum
dissipation of 25W), and relays using negative
DC voltages or AC of any kind must not be
used with the transistor switch.
The transistor switch’s “hot” lead is identified
as TX GND (since it closes to “GND” on “TX”),
and is provided on Pin 2 of the BAND (DIN) connector on the rear panel of the FT-920. It is
also provided via the rear-panel TX GND jack
when the TR-RY switch is set to the TR position.
A mechanical relay is provided for high volt-
age/high-current applications, although the
relay will not be fast enough for QSK (full breakin) CW operation; maximum ratings for the relay contacts are 220 V DC (maximum) at 270
mA, 30V DC at 2 A, or 125 V AC (maximum
AC voltage) at 500 mA (60 Watts total maximum dissipation).
The relay’s contacts may be accessed by connecting a shielded cable to the rear-panel TX
GND jack.
If the relay is being used, the TR-RY switch adjacent to the TX GND RCA jack must be set to
the RY position; conversely, if you are using
the transistor switch, leave the TR-RY switch in
the TR position, so as to eliminate the clicking
of the relay.
The relay provides a mechanical closure to Ground
on Transmit, while the (NPN) transistor switch sinks
its (open) collector to Ground on Transmit. Check
with the
vice) to confirm the amplifier switching voltage and
current, if they are not clearly stipulated in the documentation for your equipment.
þ Be absolutely certain to check the position of the
manufacturer
TR-RY switch prior to connecting any external device to the TX GND jack. Never connect an AC
voltage, or a negative DC voltage, to the TX GND
jack if the TR-RY switch is set to TR. The Limited
Warranty on this product does not cover damage
caused by improper connections (excessive or improper voltage) to the rear panel jacks of the FT-
920.
of your amplifier (or other de-
About ALC
The FT-920 provides an external ALC jack on the
rear panel (RCA-type jack) for input of Automatic
Level Control voltage from a linear amplifier.
ALC voltage is used to provide dynamic control of
the output of the transceiver, so as not to provide
more drive than is needed for full amplifier output.
The ALC control voltage range is 0 to -4 V DC, with
the voltage going more negative as the amplifier’s
drive requirements are approaching fulfillment.
The FT-920’s ALC system is very typical of designs
in the amateur radio industry, and consequently is
compatible with many manufactured and home-built
amplifiers. However, ALC voltage may be generated
by an amplifier in a manner incompatible with efficient ALC operation in the FT-920, and it is important
that you recognize the differences in amplifier ALC
circuits before proceeding with ALC line connection.
r ALC circuits which detect
the amplifier, and generate negative-going ALC
control voltage when maximum output power
has been realized, will generally work properly
with the FT-920. The exact amount of ALC voltage fed to the FT-920 can usually be adjusted
via a potentiometer on the rear panel of the
amplifier.
r ALC circuits which detect
Current
cessive grid current is present, may not work
well with the FT-920 and other similar trans-
, and generate ALC voltage when ex-
Power Output
Amplifier Tube Grid
from
FT-920 Operating Manual
13
Accessory Installation
ceivers, as the ALC voltage may be generated
because of amplifier mis-tuning not related to
an excessive-drive condition. With amplifiers
deriving their ALC voltage in this manner, we
recommend that you
and rather let the amplifier’s protection circuitry
manage its ALC requirements internally.
One useful alternative to ALC interconnection may
be considered: by entering Menu Item(s) U-49 and/
or U-50, you may define the maximum power output
for the FT-920. So if your amplifier never requires
more than 50 Watts of drive, just set the maximum
power output to “50” via the menu system, and you
will not have to worry about over-driving your amplifier. And since the power output may be set independently for each antenna port (use Menu Item U-49
for Antenna A, and U-50 for Antenna B), you may
lower the power output on a port connected to your
amplifier while retaining the full 100 Watts on the other
antenna port.
not
connect the ALC line,
Interconnection with QSK Amplifiers
If using a Yaesu FL-7000 amplifier, connect the (optional) cable CT-11 from the transceiver BAND jack to
the amplifier’s ACC-2 jack. This provides automatic
band selection for the linear, as well as QSK Tx/Rx
switching control and sequencing. Also connect an
RCA-to-RCA patch cord (Yaesu Part #T9101296 -
supplied with the FL-7000) from the amplifier’s ALC
jack to the transceiver’s EXT ALC jack, and connect
an RF coaxial jumper (Yaesu Part #T9100980 - also
supplied with the FL-7000) from the transceiver’s
antenna jack (A or B ) to the amplifier’s RF INPUT jack.
If using another manufacturer’s QSK amplifier, and if
it meets the 15 VDC/100 mA limitation for transistor
switching described previously, connect the Tx/Rx
switching line for the linear to Pin 2 of the BAND jack,
and use Pin 3 for the shield of the cable. If the amplifier provides a closure to ground to confirm that its
relays are properly seated, this “exciter-enable” line
may be connected to Pin 8 of the BAND jack.
The BAND jack is a specialized, interlocked 8-pin DIN
connector. When a suitable plug (Yaesu Part
#P0090160) is inserted into the BAND jack, it opens
the interlock which, in the case of the FT-920, grounds
Pin 8. If no exciter-enable line is provided by your
amplifier, connect a jumper between Pin 8 and Pin 3
(Ground); if you do not, the FT-920 will not allow itself to transmit.
If your QSK amplifier requires the exciter’s control
circuits to switch more than 100 mA, or uses more
than 15 VDC for Tx/Rx relay switching, you will have
to provide a suitable external interface transistor, controlled by Pin 2 of the BAND jack.
14
FT-920 Operating Manual
Accessory Installation
Interconnection with non-QSK Amplifiers
(Yaesu FL-2100 Series or others)
The TX GND jack on the rear panel of the transceiver
provides for Tx/Rx switching of non-QSK amplifiers.
A schematic diagram of the FT-920’s internal relay
circuit is shown below.
As the FT-920 is supplied from the factory, the internal relay is disabled, and a high-dissipation NPN
transistor’s (open) collector is connected to the TX
GND jack. To enable the relay for use with amplifiers
requiring it, move the rear panel TR-RY switch, located in the hole near the center of the rear panel, to
the RY position. Use a thin, insulated object like a
toothpick to move the switch. Then connect the cen-
ter contact of the TX GND RCA jack to the amplifier’s
relay control line, using the outer contact of the TX
GND jack for the shield. Connect the RF coaxial cable
and, if compatible, the ALC cable as described in the
QSK amplifier interconnection section above. Refer
to the drawing below for details.
With the relay enabled, the FT-920 can support
QSK
linear Tx/Rx switching voltages of up to 220 VDC
(maximum permissible DC voltage) at 270 mA, 30
VDC at 2 A, or 125 VAC (maximum permissible AC
voltage) at 500 mA.
non-
Caution!
Do not exceed the maximum ratings of the
switching circuitry (transistor or relay) of the
FT-920 made available via the BAND or TX GND
jacks. Your warranty does not cover damage
caused by improper interconnections to linear
amplifiers. When in doubt, it is always safest
to utilize the TX GND jack with the TR-RY switch
set to TR, as this configuration should handle
the switching requirements of most all commonly-available amplifiers.
FT-920 Operating Manual
15
Accessory Installation
2. Digital Modem Interfacing
(TNC, WeatherFax, etc.)
The FT-920 provides several convenient interconnection points, as well as dedicated operating modes,
for digital operation. While interfacing to commonlyavailable modems is simple and straightforward, it is
important that you read the instructions below so as
to understand the facilities that are provided on the
FT-920.
DATA Jack
This five-pin DIN connector is the primary interface
port for most digital-mode operation. It provides the
following connection points which may be required in
your installation:
Pin 1 (AFSK Input):
Connect this pin to your TNC’s “AFSK Out” or “Mic
Audio” output line. The optimum input level is 30
mV rms, and the input impedance is 3 kΩ. Your
TNC’s audio output level potentiometer will allow
you to set the level to the optimum value. This pin
may be used either for 300 baud SSB-mode digital operation or for 1200-baud FM packet. The
bandwidth and frequency response are not, however, suitable for 9600 baud operation. Be sure
the AFSK-FSK switch on the rear panel is in the
AFSK position.
For FSK operation (whereby the TNC closes a
line to ground to accomplish teletype keying), set
the AFSK-FSK switch to FSK, and connect your
TNC’s FSK keying line to Pin 1.
Pin 2 (Ground):
Connect this to the shield(s) of the cable(s) used
for connections between the TNC and the FT-920.
Pin 3 (PTT):
Connect this pin to the PTT line from the TNC.
This pin, when grounded by the TNC, places the
FT-920 into the Transmit condition.
Pin 4 (Audio Out):
Connect this pin to your TNC’s “RX Audio” input
line. This is a constant-level (100 mV rms @ 600
Ω) audio output line which is
position of the front-panel AF GAIN control.
Pin 5 (BUSY):
This is a “Squelch Status” pin not generally required for digital mode operation. This pin is held
at +5V when the squelch is open, and is grounded
when the receiver is muted by the squelch (“nosignal” condition).
not
affected by the
KEY Jack (Rear Panel)
If you wish to send CW using your TNC and computer keyboard, the CW Key output line from your
TNC may be connected to the rear-panel KEY jack,
according to the connection information provided on
page 5.
Since a TNC’s keying output is electrically similar to
that of a Straight Key, set the rear panel’s PDL-KEY
switch to the PDL (Manual Key) position, and connect
the TNC’s key line there. You can still connect your
keyer paddle to the
FT-920’s built-in electronic keyer , for those situations
where you wish to send using the paddle; there is no
need to switch the internal keyer on and off.
front panel
KEY jack, and use the
16
FT-920 Operating Manual
Accessory Installation
3. Other Digital/Recording
Device Interfacing
AF OUT Jack
This is a 3.5 mm miniature phone jack which provides constant-level (100 mV @ 600 Ω) for connection to a WeatherFax decoder, tape recorder, or other
accessory. The audio output level is not affected by
the setting of the front panel AF GAIN control, so you
can turn the volume down, if you like, without affecting the audio level being presented to your decoding
device.
The connection to the AF OUT jack is at the same
level as the connection to Pin 4 of the DATA jack. However, the two output ports use independent output
buffer amplifiers, so you can freely connect and disconnect devices to/from these ports without concern
over the impedances and levels.
PTT Jack
This RCA jack is wired in parallel with the DAT A jack’s
Pin 3, and may be used in conjunction with a computer or TNC’s PTT line, if desired.
P
ATCH
Jack
For transmit audio input for SSTV (Slow-Scan Television) operation, you may connect the SSTV
terminal’s TX AUDIO line to the PATCH jack. You will
need to disconnect the microphone, however , during
transmission, as the PATCH jack is connected in a “Y”
configuration along with the microphone input (from
pin 8 of the MIC jack).
FT-920 Operating Manual
17
Accessory Installation
4. CW Key/Paddle and Computer
Keying Interface Suggestions
Features
The FT-920 includes a host of features for the CW
operator, the functions of which will be detailed in the
“Operation” section later. These include:
A built-in electronic keyer with message
memory;
A front-panel KEY jack for connection of a keyer
paddle; and
A rear-panel KEY jack which may be connected
to another keyer paddle or a straight key , TNC,
or computer CW keying interface (for use with
contest software, etc.).
Both KEY jacks on the FT-920 utilize “positive” keying voltage. Key-up voltage is approximately +5V DC,
and key-down current is approximately 0.5 mA. When
connecting a key or other device to the KEY jacks,
use
only
a 3-pin (“stereo”) ¼” phone plug; a 2-pin
plug will place a short between the ring and
(grounded) shaft of the plug, resulting in a constant
“key-down” condition in some circumstances.
Configuration Suggestions
For everyday operation using the internal elec-
tronic memory keyer, connect your paddle to the
front panel
KEYER switch. If you wish to keep the keyer
paddle’s cable out of the way, connect the plug,
instead, to the rear panel K EY jack, and set the
rear-panel PDL-KEY switch to PDL.
If two operators are using the FT-920 simulta-
neously (for a contest, Field Day, etc.), a second
keyer paddle may be connected to the
KEY jack. Be sure that the rear panel’s PDL-KEY
switch is set to PDL so that both operators have
access to the internal electronic memory keyer,
and switch the front panel KEYER switch on.
If two operators are using the FT-920 simulta-
neously, but both wish to use a straight key, “bug,”
or an outboard electronic keyer, the key plugs may
be inserted into the front and rear panel KEY jacks;
now turn the front panel’s KEYER switch off. Irrespective of the setting of the PDL-KEY switch, the
tip connections on both Key plugs will serve as
“Straight Key” lines for accommodating this application.
If you are using a computer-driven CW keying in-
terface (with contest software), but want to be able
to send occasional “repeat” messages quickly
using the FT-920’s
keyer paddle
keying interface
key) to the
tion, set the rear panel’s PDL-KEY switch to the
KEY position, which re-configures
panel’s KEY jack to accept a “Manual” keying line.
KEY jack, and activate the front panel
rear panel
internal
to the
rear panel
front panel
line (which emulates a straight
keyer, connect your
KEY jack, and the
KEY jack. In this configura-
only
the rear
18
Note that the rear-panel KEY jack carries the capability to support an external PTT line, if provided by your
external keyer, TNC, or computer keying interface.
FT-920 Operating Manual
Accessory Installation
5. Antenna Connections
The FT-920’s three antenna connectors, plus innovative microprocessor-based memory and switching
circuits, provide excellent flexibility in setting up your
antenna connections.
Typical antenna configurations are shown below . Remember that Antenna A and Antenna B (which are
“SO-239” or “M” connectors) may be used for transmission and reception, while the RX Antenna port
(which is an “RCA” type connector) may only be used
for reception.
Note
Regarding Large Receive Antennas
Although surge suppression is provided on all
antenna ports, you may wish to consider building a simple external circuit which will disconnect, on TX, any antenna connected to the RX
ANT IN jack, particularly if you are using a very
long wire antenna such as a Beverage. Very
long antennas can build up very high RF and
static voltages on them, and the circuit below
may provide better protection for your
receiver’s input circuitry .
6. Personal Computer Interfacing
for Contest Software, etc.
The FT-920 features a built-in level converter, allowing direct connection from the rear-panel CAT jack to
the serial port of your computer, without the need for
any external converter box.
When your software requests serial port configuration information, set it for “4800,N,8,2” (4800 baud,
No Parity , 8 Data Bits, and 2 Stop Bits). Be certain to
configure and activate any required “TSR” (T erminateand-Stay-Resident) utilities before beginning computer-controlled transceiver operation (your software’s
instruction manual will describe any such requirement).
FT-920 Operating Manual
19
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks
(1) POWER Switch
This latching-type switch turns the FT-920 on and
off. Push it once to turn the transceiver on, and press
it again to turn the power off.
(2) MOX Switch
This also is a latching-type switch, used to switch the
FT-920 manually into the transmit mode (instead of
using the microphone Push-T o-Talk (PTT) switch, for
example). Press [MOX] once to activate the transmit
mode, and press it again to release the FT-920 back
into the receive mode.
Be sure to have an antenna or dummy
load connected to the transceiver when
this switch is pushed. Failure to do so may
cause damage to the transmitter’s final amplifier
stage.
(3) VOX Switch
This switch enables automatic voice-actuated transmitter switching in the SSB, AM, and FM modes, as
well as “semi-break-in” CW. Press the [VOX] switch
once to activate VOX, and again to disable VOX (and
return to PTT operation).
(4) PHONES Jack
This ¼” 3-pin jack is used for connection of headphones. When a plug is inserted into this jack, the
internal/external speaker will be cut off. This jack is
optimized for use with 16 Ω to 32 Ω headphones,
and will accept either monaural or stereo headphone
types.
(5) KEY Jack
This ¼” 3-pin jack is used for connection of a CW
keyer paddle or a straight key. Use only a 3-pin ( “stereo”) plug in this jack; if you attempt to use a 2-pin
plug, a constant CW carrier will be sent out. The
pinout is shown on page 5.
(6) MIC Jack
This 8-pin connector accepts microphone input, as
well as providing PTT, ground, and scanning control
access. Proper microphone impedance is 500 ~ 600
Ω.
20
FT-920 Operating Manual
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks
(7) METER SELECT Switch
This switch is used to select the display function of
the transmission multimeter, with the selections being provided in the following sequence:
ALC: ALC Voltage.
SWR: SWR as observed by the transmitter P A.
COMP: Speech Processor Compression level.
VOLT: Final amplifier transistor supply voltag
(also displayed on receive).
AMP: Final amplifier transistor drain current.
ALC: ALC Voltage
(return to beginning of loop).
(8) IPO Switch
The Intercept Point Optimization button switches the
receiver RF preamplifier on and off. When the switch
is pressed, the “IPO” icon appears on the display
panel, and the receiver RF preamplifier is bypassed.
When this switch is pressed again, “IPO” will disappear, and the RF preamplifier returns to operation.
Best receiver sensitivity occurs when “IPO” is off.
However, the RF preamplifier may not be necessary
in noisy locations or on the lower frequencies, in which
case the IPO feature will provide improved immunity
from intermodulation.
(9) ATT Switch
This switch may be used to reduce the input receive
signal in one S-Unit steps, starting at 0 dB (no attenuation), and sequencing through [6 dB] Þ [12 dB]
Þ [18 dB] Þ [0 dB]. . .
The attenuation level is shown on the display panel.
Best sensitivity will, of course, occur when no attenuation is used.
(10) AGC Switch
This switch selects the recovery time for the receiver
AGC (Automatic Gain Control) system. The selections available are, in order:
AGC FAST: Fast receiver recovery time.
AGC SLOW: Slow receiver recovery time.
AGC OFF: AGC system disabled.
AGC FAST: Fast receiver recovery time
(return to beginning of loop).
The current receiver recovery time constant is shown
on the display panel.
? If “AGC OFF” is selected, the S-meter (which moni-
tors AGC voltage) will cease to function.
(11) MIC GAIN Control
This control adjusts the microphone input level in the
SSB and AM modes. Clockwise rotation increases
the microphone gain level.
(12) RF PWR Control
This control adjusts the transmitter’s power output,
with a range of 10 ~ 100 Watts, and adjustment is
available in all modes. Clockwise rotation increases
the power output.
(13) AF GAIN Control
This control adjusts the receiver volume level presented to the speaker or headphones. Clockwise rotation increases the volume level.
? Note that this control does not affect the audio
level presented to the rear-panel AF OUT and DATA
jacks.
(14) RF GAIN Control
This control adjusts the gain of the receiver’s RF and
IF stages. Clockwise rotation increases the RF Gain
level for best sensitivity, and the normal operating
position for this control is fully clockwise.
? Counter-clockwise rotation of the RF GAIN con-
trol, besides lowering the receiver gain level, will
cause the S-meter to deflect upward, as though a
strong signal were present.
(15) NARROW Switch
This switch is used to activate optional narrow filters,
for improved interference rejection. Press this switch
to select the narrow filter; the “NAR” indicator will appear on the display panel.
(16) MODE Switches
Pressing one of these switches selects the operating
mode. Per the chart below, repeated presses of a
particular switch may cause the precise mode to be
selected from within a mode group (for example,
pressing [SSB] repeatedly toggles between [USB]
and [LSB].
Mode
Sw itch
SSB
CW
AM
FM
DATA
LSB Ö USB
CW (LS B) Ö CW (USB)
AM
FM
DATA L SB Õ DATA USB Õ DATA FM
(RTTY/FSK) (PKT/AFSK) (PK T/AFSK) (RTTY/FSK)
Available Mode Selections
Õ
DATA LSB
Õ
FT-920 Operating Manual
21
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks
(17), (18) Antenna Switches (A/B, RX)
These switches allow selection of antennas, per the
information and illustration below.
(17) A/B Press this switch to toggle between antennas connected to the “A” and “B” connectors
on the rear panel. The indicator “ ANT[A] ” or
“ANT[B]” will appear on the display panel to indi-
cate which antenna is in use. The antenna selection will be maintained in the VFO or Memory register in use.
(18) RX When this switch is pressed, the
receiver’s input is connected to the receive-only
“RX IN” RCA connector on the rear panel of the
FT-920. This feature allows connection of a lownoise receiving antenna or a VHF/UHF receive
converter. When the RX button is pushed, the “RX
ANT” indicator will appear on the display panel.See
the drawing on the next page for details.
(19) SQL (Squelch) Control
This control, active in all modes, may be used to silence background noise when no signal is present.
Most frequently used during FM operation, this control must be rotated fully counter-clockwise for most
SSB, CW, or AM operation.
(20) PROC COMPression Level Control
This control is used to adjust the compression level
of the digital speech processor during SSB operation. Clockwise rotation increases the compression
level.
(21) PROC Switch
Pressing this switch activates the digital SSB speech
processor, for enhanced “talk power” under difficult
conditions. The “PROC” indicator will appear on the
display panel when the speech processor is activated.
Press this switch again to turn the speech processor
off.
(22) MONI GAIN Control
This control is used to adjust the audio level of the
voice monitor. Clockwise rotation increases the audio level.
(23) MONI Switch
Pressing this switch activates the voice monitor , which
allows the operator to monitor voice characteristics
during adjustments. When the monitor is activated,
the “MONI” indicator appears on the display panel.
Press this switch again to turn off the monitor.
22
FT-920 Operating Manual
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks
(24) NB LEVEL Control
This control adjusts the blanking level for the IF Noise
Blanker. Clockwise rotation increases the degree of
blanking.
(25) NB Switch
Pressing this switch activates the IF Noise Blanker.
When the Noise Blanker is activated, the ‘NB” indicator will appear in the display panel. Press this switch
again to switch the Noise Blanker off.
? The IF Noise Blanker may be used or alone or in
conjunction with the DSP Noise Reduction feature.
(26) RX - (VFO-A) Indicator/Switch
This combination LED/Switch indicates the operating status of VFO-A in the receive mode. The LED
appears green when the receiver is set up for the
use of VFO-A.
This LED is also a switch; when the receiver is using
VFO-A, pressing the green LED will cause the receiver to be muted (the LED will now blink). Press
the LED again to cancel the mute function.
(27) TX - (VFO-A) Indicator/Switch
This combination LED/Switch indicates whether or
not VFO-A is being used to determine the transmit
frequency. The LED appears orange when the transmitter is being controlled by VFO-A (this is the
situation for transceive operation using VFO-A).
When the corresponding LED near the tuning dial for
VFO-B is pushed, the VFO-A [TX] LED will go out,
showing that VFO-A has relinquished transmit frequency control. Pushing the VFO-A [TX] LED again
will restore transmit frequency control to VFO-A.
typical
If this LED is pushed while it is already illuminated,
the FT-920 will be placed in the (reduced-power:
Approx. 10 W) “TX MUTE” mode. In this mode, the
Orange LED will
(28) VFO-A Tuning Dial
This large knob is the main tuning dial for the transceiver, controlling the frequency of the (main) VFOA. Clockwise rotation of the knob increases the frequency, while counter-clockwise rotation decreases
the frequency . The tuning steps of the rotary encoder
coupled to the VFO-A Tuning Dial are shown below.
Operating
Mode
SSB, CW, DATA(SS B)
AM, FM, DATA(FM)
(29) STEP Switch
Use the [STEP] switch to enable fine or coarse tuning
when using the VFO-A or VFO-B tuning dials, as well
as the [UPs] or [Downt] switches. The [step] switch
toggles the tuning steps through the following sequence:
Fast Õ Fine Õ Normal Õ Fast Õ . . .
The current setting will be indicated on the display
panel.
(30) Shuttle Jog Control
The outer, concentric “Shuttle Jog” control behind the
VFO-A Tuning Dial allows fine or rapid frequency excursions with just a slight turn of your hand. Rotating
the Jog ring slightly to the left or right initiates slow
tuning in a downward or upward direction, respectively . The more you rotate the spring-loaded Jog dial,
the faster the VFO will tune. The tuning rate of the
Shuttle Jog may be programmed via the Menu system.
blink
.
STEP
No rmal Fast Fine
10Hz 100Hz 1Hz
100Hz 1kHz 10 H z
FT-920 Operating Manual
23
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks
(31) LOCK Switch (A)
The [LOCK] switch locks the settings of the VFO-A
Tuning Dial and/or the Shuttle Jog. Press this switch
momentarily to lock the Tuning Dial; press and hold it
in for ½ second to lock the Shuttle Jog.
When either control is locked, the “LOCK” indicator
below the “ VFO-A” indicator on the display panel will
be illuminated.
(32) DISPLAY Switch
This switch changes the function of the VFO-B readout area of the display panel. In the normal mode,
the VFO-B frequency is displayed. When this button
is pushed, and you are operating in the MR (Memory
Recall) mode, any alphanumeric memos (“AlphaTags”) you have programmed will be substituted in
place of the frequency display on the VFO-B side.
Press this switch again to return to the frequency display mode.
(33) (VFO) A u B Switch
Pressing and holding this switch in for ½ second
causes the contents of VFO-A to be copied into VFOB, so that the two VFOs’ contents will be identical.
(34) (VFO) A B Switch
Pressing this switch momentarily to swap the contents of VFO-A with those of VFO-B.
(35) VFO/MEM Switch
Pressing this switch changes frequency control between the VFO and Memory systems.
Repeatedly pushing this switch causes frequency
control to toggle between the two systems.
(36) RPT Switch
Pressing this switch, while on 28 MHz in the FM operating mode, causes a standard repeater shift (default: 100 kHz) to be applied to the operating frequency during transmission; additionally, a
(subaudible) CTCSS encode tone (default: 88.5 Hz)
will be superimposed on your transmitted signal, for
accessing repeaters requiring it.
Both the CTCSS tone frequency and repeater shift
may be changed via the Menu system.
(37) DW Switch
Pressing this switch activates the Dual Watch feature.
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FT-920 Operating Manual
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks
(38) V u M Switch
Pressing this switch for ½ second transfers the contents of VFO-A into a memory register.
(39) V u M Switch
Pressing this switch for ½ second transfers the contents of the currently-selected memory channel into
VFO-A.
(40) Keypad
The keypad is used for one-touch band selection, as
well as direct frequency entry, during VFO operation.
During FM transmission, the Keypad also serves as
a DTMF Encoding Keypad for Autopatch operation.
(41) QMB RCL Switch
This switch is used for one-touch recall of Quick
Memory Bank memories. Pressing this switch causes
the QMB memories to be recalled sequentially.
(42) QMB STO Switch
This switch is used for storing VFO-A frequencies
into the QMB memory registers.
(43) REC Switch
Pressing this switch causes the built-in Digital Recorder to start recording the contents of the receiver’s
incoming audio. Pressing the REC switch for ½ second, followed by the [1], [2], [3], or [4] key on the Keypad, causes the Digital Voice Message recorder to
start recording.
(44) PLAY Switch
Pressing this switch initiates playback of the receiver’s
Digital Recorder.
(45) UP (p ) / DOWN (q ) Keys
Pressing these keys allows quick frequency jumps
(during VFO operation) or memory channel selection (during Memory Recall operation). Pressing either of these switches once (momentarily) causes
the frequency or memory channel number to move
upward or downward by one increment; pressing and
holding a switch in causes continuous frequency or
channel number change.
The increments for frequency change during VFO
operation, using these switches, are shown below.
STEP SWITCH POSI TION
NORM AL FAST FINE
100k H z 1MHz 10k H z
(46) RX - (VFO-B) Indicator/Switch
This combination LED/Switch indicates the operating status of VFO-B in the receive mode. The LED
appears green when the receiver is set up for the
use of VFO-B.
This LED is also a switch; when the receiver is using
VFO-B, pressing the green LED will cause the receiver to be muted (the LED will now blink). Press
the LED again to cancel the mute function.
(47) TX - (VFO-B) Indicator/Switch
This combination LED/Switch indicates whether or
not VFO-B is being used to determine the transmit
frequency. The LED appears orange when the transmitter is being controlled by VFO-B (this is a typical
situation for “Split” operation using VFO-B for transmission while receiving on VFO-A).
When the corresponding LED near the tuning dial for
VFO-A is pushed, the VFO-B [TX] LED will go out,
showing that VFO-B has relinquished transmit frequency control. Pushing the VFO-B [TX] LED again
will restore transmit frequency control to VFO-B.
If this LED is pushed while it is already illuminated,
the FT-920 will be placed in the (reduced-power:
Approx. 10W) “TX MUTE” mode. In this mode, the
Orange LED will
(48) VFO-B Tuning Dial
This knob is the tuning dial controlling the frequency
of the (Sub) VFO-B. Clockwise rotation of the knob
increases the frequency , while counter-clockwise rotation decreases the frequency. The tuning steps of
the rotary encoder coupled to the VFO-B Tuning Dial
are shown below.
Operating
Mode
SSB, CW, DATA(SS B)
AM, FM, DATA(FM)
(49) MEM CH Switch
Pressing this switch changes the operating configuration for the VFO-B Tuning Dial.
If this switch is pressed, the VFO-B Tuning Dial will
switch from VFO operation to Memory Channel selection. Press the switch again to return to VFO operation.
blink
.
STEP
No rmal Fast Fine
10Hz 100Hz 1Hz
100Hz 1kHz 10 H z
FT-920 Operating Manual
25
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks
(50) LOCK Switch (B)
This switch locks the settings of the VFO-B knob and/
or the front panel keys.
Pressing this switch momentarily locks the settings
of the VFO-B Tuning Dial. Pressing and holding in
this switch for ½ second causes all the keys on the
front panel of the transceiver (except for the [LOCK]
switches!) to be locked. When the LOCK function is
engaged, the “LOCK” indicator will be shown on the
display panel.
(51) MENU Switch
Pressing this switch momentarily activates the “Menu”
mode, which allows customization of many aspects
of transceiver configuration.
(52) RX CLAR Switch
Pressing this switch activates the RX Clarifier (Offset T uning from VFO-A frequency) feature. When this
feature is activated, the VFO-B Tuning Knob is used
for Clarifier tuning up to an offset of ±9.99 kHz.
(53) TX CLAR Switch
Pressing this switch activates the TX Clarifier feature, allowing the transmit frequency to be offset from
the VFO-A frequency up to ±9.99 kHz. The TX Clarifier may be used in conjunction with the RX Clarifier,
or the chosen offset may be applied either to the RX
or TX frequency singly.
(54) CLEAR CLAR Switch
Pressing this switch clears any offset that has been
established for the Clarifier, returning it to a “Zero
Offset” condition. Pressing this switch only cancels
the
offset
; it does
(55) SPOT Switch
In the CW mode, this switch activates a spotting tone,
used for precise zeroing in onto an incoming (RX)
signal. By matching the pitch of the incoming signal
exactly to the pitch of the Spot tone, your transmitter’s
signal will be precisely aligned to a “Zero Beat” position relative to the other station’s signal.
not
turn the Clarifier itself off.
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FT-920 Operating Manual
Front Panel Controls, Switches, & Jacks
(56) BK-IN Switch
Pressing this switch, in the CW mode, places the
transceiver in the “Full Break-In” (“QSK”) mode.
(57) KEYER Switch
This is the On/Off switch for the built-in Electronic
Keyer.
(58) SPEED Control
This is the Speed control for the built-in Electronic
Keyer. Clockwise rotation increased the sending
speed.
(59) PITCH Control
This control adjusts the pitch of (A) the SPOT tone,
(B) the corresponding pitch of your FT-920’s transmitted carrier, and (C) the center frequency of the
receive passband. The available range of frequencies is 300 ~ 1050 Hz, in 50 Hz steps.
(60) SIDE TONE Control
This control adjusts the level of the CW monitor
sidetone. Clockwise rotation increases the monitor
level.
(61) MEM GROUP Switch
This switch is used to select the “Memory Group
Recall” mode of Memory operation. In this mode, only
those memory channels within the designated group
will be available for recall; this is useful in reducing
channel selection time if you only are interested in
watching a few particular channels.
(62) TUNER Switch
This is the On/Off switch for the FT-920’s Automatic
Antenna Tuner.
(63) SHIFT Control
This control adjusts the receiver’s IF Shift feature,
which adjusts the 8.2 MHz IF position relative to the
center frequency of the selected IF filter (in all modes
except FM). The default position for this control is at
12 o’clock, and an adjustment range of ±1.26 kHz is
provided (the pitch of the incoming signals will not
change).
(64) NR Control
This control adjusts the level of the DSP-based Noise
Reduction feature. Clockwise rotation of this control
increased the degree of noise reduction.
(65) DSP Switch
This is the On/Off switch for the Digital Signal Pro-
cessing circuitry.
(66) LOW CUT/HIGH CUT Controls
These controls adjust the passband cutoff frequencies of the receiver’s High-Cut and Low-Cut DSP filters. The inner control adjusts the Low-Cut characteristics, with a physical adjustment range over the
left hemisphere. The outer control adjusts the HighCut characteristics, and its adjustment range is over
the right hemisphere.
Do not attempt to adjust either of these controls past
the 12 o’clock position.
(67) NOTCH Switch
This is the On/Off switch for the beat-canceling DSP
Notch filter.
Pressing this switch
Tuner in line.
Pressing and holding in this switch for ½ second activates the Automatic Matching mode, in which a carrier is generated and the tuner ’s microprocessorbased circuitry selects values of inductance and capacitance so as to present a low SWR to the
transmitter’s output port.
þ Be certain to have an antenna or dummy load con-
nected to the antenna jack on the rear of the transceiver before initiating Automatic Antenna Tuner
matching procedures.
momentarily
places the Antenna
FT-920 Operating Manual
27
Display Panel Indicators and Icons
(1) S/PO Meter
This meter scale indicates signal strength on receive,
and power output on transmit. The characteristics
may be changed between Instantaneous and PeakHold by making the appropriate selection via Menu
Item U-07.
(2) Transmit Multimeter
In accordance with the corresponding setting of the
Meter Select switch, these meter scales provide display of the following transmitter performance parameters:
ALC: ALC Voltage.
SWR: SWR as observed by the transmitter PA.
COMP: Speech Processor Compression level.
VOLT: Final amplifier transistor supply voltage
(also displayed on receive).
AMP: Final amplifier transistor drain current.
(3) [PROC]
This icon indicates that the Digital Speech Processor is On.
(4) [IPO]
This icon indicates that the Intercept Point Optimization condition for the receiver is active, with the input
preamplifier being bypassed.
(5) [ATT 6 12 18]
This icon is illuminated when the receiver input preamplifier is On, and it displays the number of dB of attenuation.
(6) [AGC F S] [AGC OFF]
These icons indicate the current operating mode for
the Automatic Gain C ontrol circuitry.
(7) [TRANSMIT]
This icon becomes illuminated during transmission.
If you attempt to transmit outside of an authorized
transmit range, this icon will disappear, and “ERROR”
will appear on the main frequency display area.
(8) [BUSY]
This icon is illuminated during reception so long as
the receiver is unsquelched. By keeping the SQUELCH
control fully counter-clockwise, receiver audio will always be present and the [BUSY] icon will stay lit.
(9) [SPLIT]
This icon is illuminated during “Split” operation using
VFO-A for reception and VFO-B for transmission, or
vice-versa.
(10) [FAST]
This icon is illuminated when “Fast” synthesizer steps
have been selected, for more rapid frequency navigation using the VFO-A and VFO-B Tuning Knobs,
or the U P(p)/(q)DOWN switches. In the “Fast” mode,
the frequency change is multiplied by a factor of 10.
(11) [NAR]
This icon is illuminated when a Narrow filter (in those
modes where one is available) has been selected.
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FT-920 Operating Manual
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