Yaesu FT-950 Operating Manual

HF/50 MH

FT-950

O

PERATING

Z

T

RANSCEIVER

M

ANUAL

VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.

4-8-8 Nakameguro, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo 153-8644, Japan

VERTEX STANDARD

US Headquarters

10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.

YAESU UK LTD.

Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Close
Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.

VERTEX STANDARD HK LTD.

Unit 5, 20/F., Seaview Centre, 139-141 Hoi Bun Road,
Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong

VERTEX STANDARD (AUSTRALIA) PTY., LTD.

Normanby Business Park, Unit 14/45 Normanby Road
Notting Hill 3168, Victoria, Australia

ABOUT THIS MANUAL . . .

The FT-950 is a leading-edge transceiver with a number of new and exciting features, some of which may be unfamiliar to
you. In order to gain the most enjoyment and operating efficiency from your FT-950, we recommend that you read this
manual in its entirety, and keep it handy for reference as you explore the many capabilities of your new transceiver.

Before using your FT-950, be sure to read and follow the instructions in the “Before You Begin” section of this manual.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Congratulations on the purchase of your Yaesu amateur
transceiver! Whether this is your first rig, or if Yaesu equip­ment is already the backbone of your station, rest assured
your transceiver will provide many hours of operating plea­sure for years to come.

The FT-950 is an elite-class HF transceiver providing ex-
ceptional performance both on transmit and receive. The
FT-950 is designed for the most competitive operating
situations, whether you primarily operate in contest, DX,
or digital-mode environments.

Built on the foundation of the popular FT
ceiver, and carrying the proud tradition of the FT-1000
series, the FT-950 provides up to 100 Watts of power out­put on SSB, CW, and FM (25 Watts AM carrier). Digital
Signal Processing (DSP) is utilized throughout the design,
providing leading-edge performance, both transmit and
receive.

The Data Management Unit (DMU-2000) is available as
an option for the FT-950. It provides extensive display
capabilities via a user-supplied computer monitor. Included
are Band Scope, Audio Scope, X-Y Oscilloscope, World
Clock, Rotator Control, extensive Transceiver Status Dis­plays, and Station Logging Capability.

For exceptional protection from strong signal interference,
the optional RF μTuning Kits may be connected via the
rear panel. The μTuning Kits provide extraordinarily sharp
selectivity, and protect your receiver from close-in inter­ference on a crowded band.

In the front end, you may select one of two RF preamplifi­ers, or IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) providing di­rect feed to the first mixer. Three levels of RF attenuation
are available in 6-dB steps.

The FT-950 receiver utilizes DSP filtering, incorporating
many of the features of the FTDX9000, such as, Variable
Bandwidth, IF Shift, and Passband Contour tuning. Also
provided are Digital Noise Reduction, Digital Auto-Notch
Filtering and a manually tuned IF Notch filter.

On the transmit side, the Yaesu-exclusive Three-Band Para­metric Microphone Equalizer allows precise and flexible
adjustment of the waveform created by your voice and
microphone. The Amplitude, Center Frequency, and Band­width are adjusted separately for the low, mid-range, and
high-frequency audio spectra. The transmitted bandwidth
may also be adjusted.

DX9000 trans-

Advanced features include: Direct Keyboard Frequency
Entry and Band Change, Speech Processor, IF Monitor
for Voice modes, CW Pitch control, CW Spot switch, Full
CW QSK, adjustable IF Noise Blanker, and all-mode
Squelch. Two TX/RX antenna ports are provided on the
rear panel. Two key jacks are provided (one on the front
and one on the rear panel). The key jacks may be config­ured independently for paddle input, connection to a
straight key, or computer-driven keying interface. The CW
Message Memory is provided.

Frequency setup is straightforward on the FT-950. Enter
frequency directly for both VFO-A and VFO-B. Separate
keys are provided for band selection. Each band key pro­vides three separate VFO settings for three different parts
of each band. You can establish three independent VFO
settings of frequency, mode, and filter for each band.

In addition, 99 memories are provided to store: Frequency,
Mode, IF filter selection, Clarifier offset, and Scan-skip
status. What’s more, five quick-recall (“QMB”) memo­ries can instantly store operational settings at the push of a
button.

The built-in antenna tuner includes 100 memories that au­tomatically store antenna matching settings for rapid au­tomatic recall later.

Interfacing for digital modes is extremely simple with the
FT-950, thanks to the dedicated RTTY/PKT connection
jack on the rear panel. Optimization of the filter passband,
DSP settings, carrier insertion point, and display offset for
digital modes, is possible via the Menu programming sys­tem.

Advanced technology is only part of the FT-950 story.
Vertex Standard stands behind our products with a world­wide network of dealers and service centers. We greatly
appreciate your investment in the FT-950, and we look
forward to helping you get the most out of your new trans­ceiver. Please feel free to contact your nearest dealer, or
one of Vertex Standard’s national headquarters offices, for
technical advice, interfacing assistance, or accessory rec­ommendation. Watch Vertex Standard U.S.A.’s Home Page
for late-breaking information about Vertex, Standard Ho­rizon, and Yaesu products: http://www.vertexstandard.com.

Please read this manual thoroughly, to gain maximum un­derstanding of the full capability of the FT-950. We thank
you again for your purchase!

Page 1FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

General Description ..................................................... 1

Accessories & Options ................................................. 4

Supplied Accessories ............................................... 4

Available Options ..................................................... 5

Before You Begin ......................................................... 6

Extending the Front Feet ..........................................6

Adjusting the Main Tuning Dial Torque .................. 6

Resetting the Microprocessor .................................. 7

Resetting Memories (Only) ................................ 7

Menu Resetting................................................... 7

Full Reset ............................................................ 7

Installation and Interconnections ............................... 8

Antenna Considerations ........................................... 8

About Coaxial Cable ................................................8

Grounding ................................................................ 9

Connection of Antenna and Power Cables ............. 10

Connection of Microphone and Headphone .......... 11

Key, Keyer, and Computer-Driven Keying

Interconnections ..................................................... 12

VL-1000 Linear Amplifier Interconnections.......... 13

Interfacing to Other Linear Amplifiers................... 14

Plug/Connector Pinout Diagrams ............................ 15

Front Panel Controls & Switches ............................. 16

Display Indications .................................................... 24

Rear Panel .................................................................. 27

Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands ......29

Operation on 60-Meter (5 MHz) Band

(U.S. version only) ................................................. 32

CLAR (Clarifier) Operation ...................................33

LOCK ..................................................................... 34

DIMMER ............................................................... 34

Convenience Features................................................ 35

Using VFO-B ......................................................... 35

“MY Bands” Operation .......................................... 36

Band Stack Operation ............................................ 37

C.S (Custom Switch) ..............................................37

Rotator Control Functions ...................................... 38

More Frequency Navigation Techniques ............... 39

Keyboard Frequency Entry .............................. 39

Using the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob ...................... 39

Using the UP/DOWN switches of

the supplied MH-31B8 Hand Microphone ........ 39

Interference Rejection ...............................................40

Receiver Operation (Front End Block Diagram) ... 40

ATT ........................................................................ 41

μ-Tune Filter .......................................................... 42

IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) ........................ 44

R.FLT (Roofing Filters) ......................................... 45

IF Noise Blanker (NB) Operation .......................... 46

CONTOUR Control Operation .............................. 47

IF SHIFT Operation ............................................... 48

WIDTH (IF DSP Bandwidth) Tuning .................... 49

Using IF Shift and Width Together................... 49

NARROW (NAR) One-Touch IF Filter Selection ... 50

IF Notch Filter Operation....................................... 51

Digital Notch Filter (DNF) Operation ................... 52

Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) Operation ............ 52

RF Gain (SSB/CW/AM Modes) ............................ 53

Tools for Comfortable and Effective Reception ...... 54

Audio Pitch Control ............................................... 54

Mute Feature .......................................................... 54

AGC (Automatic Gain Control) ............................. 55

SSB/AM Mode Transmission .................................... 56

Using the Automatic Antenna Tuner ........................ 58

ATU Operation ....................................................... 58

About ATU Operation ............................................ 59

Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality ......................... 60

Parametric Microphone Equalizer ......................... 60

Using the Speech Processor ................................... 62

Adjusting the SSB Transmitted Bandwidth ........... 63

Transmitter Convenience Features .......................... 64

Voice Memory ........................................................ 64

Voice Memory Operation from

the optional FH-2 Remote Control Keypad ..... 65

VOX (Automatic TX/RX Switching using Voice Control) ............. 66

MONITOR ............................................................. 67

Split Operation Using the TX Clarifier .................. 68

Split-Frequency Operation ..................................... 69

Quick Split Operation ....................................... 69

Page 2 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CW Mode Operation ................................................. 70

Setup for Straight Key

(and Straight Key emulation) Operation ................ 70

Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer ....................... 71

Full Break-in (QSK) Operation ........................ 72

Setting the Keyer Weight (Dot/Dash) Ratio ...... 72

Selecting the Keyer Operating Mode ............... 73

CW Convenience Features ........................................ 74

Audio Peak Filter ................................................... 74

CW Spotting (Zero-Beating) .................................. 74

Using CW Reverse ................................................. 75

CW Delay Time Setting ......................................... 76

CW Pitch Adjustment ............................................. 76

Contest Memory Keyer .......................................... 78

Message Memory ............................................. 78

Transmitting in the Beacon Mode .............. 79

TEXT Memory ................................................. 80

Contest Number Programming ................... 82

Contest Memory Keyer
(Using the optional FH-2 Remote Control Keypad)

Message Memory ............................................. 82

TEXT Memory ................................................. 84

FM Mode Operation ................................................. 87

Basic Operation ...................................................... 87

Repeater Operation ................................................ 88

Tone Squelch Operation ......................................... 89

Memory Operation .................................................... 90

Convenient Memory functions ............................... 90

QMB (Quick Memory Bank) ................................. 91

Standard Memory Operation .................................. 92

Memory Storage ............................................... 92

Memory Channel Recall ...................................92

Checking Memory Channel Status ................... 93

Erasing Memory Channel Data ........................ 93

Moving Memory Data to

the Main Band (VFO-A) .................................. 94

Memory Tune Operation .................................. 94

Memory Groups ..................................................... 95

Memory Group Assignment ............................. 95

Choosing the Desired Memory Group ............. 95

Operation on Alaska Emergency Frequency:

5167.5 kHz (U.S. Version Only) ................................ 96

VFO and Memory Scanning ..................................... 97

VFO Scanning ........................................................97

Memory Scan ......................................................... 98

PMS (Programmable Memory Scan)....................... 99

...... 82

Packet Operation ..................................................... 100

Packet Setup (Including Subcarrier Frequency) .. 100

Basic Setup .......................................................... 100

RTTY (Radio Teletype) Operation .........................101

Setting Up for RTTY Operation ........................... 101

Basic Setup .......................................................... 101

Miscellaneous AFSK-Based Data Modes .............. 102

About the Transverter Output Terminal ............... 107

Menu Mode .............................................................. 103

Using the Menu .................................................... 103

Menu Mode Reset ................................................ 103

AGC Group ..........................................................108

DISPLAY Group ..................................................108

DVS Group .......................................................... 109

KEYER Group ..................................................... 109

GENERAL Group ................................................ 110

MODE-AM Group ............................................... 111

MODE-CW Group ............................................... 111

MODE-DATA Group ........................................... 113

MODE-FM Group ............................................... 113

MODE-RTTY Group ........................................... 113

MODE-SSB Group .............................................. 114

RX GENERAL Group ......................................... 114

SCOPE Group ...................................................... 115

TUNING Group ................................................... 116

TX AUDIO Group ............................................... 116

TX GNRL Group ................................................. 118

Installation of the Optional Filter .......................... 120

Voice Memory Unit (DVS-6) ............................... 120

RF μTuning Kit .................................................... 121

FC-40 External Automatic Antenna Tuner ........... 122

Data Management Unit (DMU-2000) ..................124

Specifications ............................................................ 126

Page 3FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS

SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES

Hand Microphone (MH-31B8
DC Power Cord 1 pc T9025225
Spare Fuse (25A) 1 pc Q0000074
Operating Manual 1 pc
Warranty Card 1 pc

)

1 pc A07890001

Page 4 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS

AVAILABLE OPTIONS

MD-200A8X Ultra-High-Fidelity Desktop Microphone
MD-100A8X Desktop Microphone
YH-77STA Lightweight Stereo Headphone
VL-1000/VP-1000 Linear Amplifier/AC Power Supply
DMU-2000 Data Management Unit
RF μTuning Kit A For 160 m Band
RF μTuning Kit B For 80/40 m Bands
RF μTuning Kit C For 30/20 m Bands
FC-40 External Automatic Antenna Tuner
DVS-6 Voice Memory Unit
FH-2 Remote Control Keypad
CT-118 VL-1000 Linear Amplifire Connection Cable

CT Cable (MDIN6P - MDIN6P 2m) Antenna Rotator Connection Cable (P/N T9101556)
CT Cable (MDIN10P - Bare Wire 2m) Linear Amplifier Connection Cable (P/N T9207451)

MD-200A8X YH-77STA FH-2

DMU-2000VL-1000/VP-1000

RF μTuning Kit DVS-6FC-40

Page 5FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

EXTENDING THE FRONT FEET

To elevate the front panel for easy viewing, the front left and right feet of the bottom case may be extended.

 Pull the front legs outward from the bottom panel.
 Rotate the legs counter-clockwise to lock them in the

extended position. Be sure the legs have locked se­curely in place, because the transceiver is quite heavy
and an unlocked leg could result in damage, should
the transceiver move suddenly.

 
 

Retracting the Front Feet

 Rotate the legs clockwise, and push them inward while

rotating to the right.

 The front feet should now be locked in the retracted

position.

ADJUSTING THE MAIN TUNING DIAL TORQUE

The torque (drag) of the Main Tuning Dial knob may be
adjusted according to your preferences. Simply hold down
the rear skirt of the knob, and while holding it in place
rotate the knob clockwise to reduce the drag or counter­clockwise to increase the drag. Available adjustment range
is 120°.

Hold the Skirt

TIGHTEN LOOSEN

 
 

Page 6 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

RESETTING THE MICROPROCESSOR

RESETTING MEMORIES (ONLY

)

Use this procedure to reset (clear) the previously stored
Memory channels, without affecting any configuration
changes you may have made to the Menu settings.

1. Press the front panel’s [POWER] switch to turn the
transceiver off.

XX

X

2. Press and hold in the [A

XX

M] button; while holding it

in, press and hold in the front panel’s [POWER] switch
to turn the transceiver on. Once the transceiver comes
on, you may release the buttons.

MENU RESETTING

Use this procedure to restore the Menu settings to their
factory defaults, without affecting the memories you have
programmed.

1. Press the front panel [POWER] switch to turn the trans­ceiver off.

2. Press and hold in the [MENU] button; while holding it
in, press and hold in the front panel [POWER] switch
to turn the transceiver on. Once the transceiver comes
on, you may release the buttons.

[

POWER] button

[

POWER] button

[

MENU] button

XX

X

XX

[

A

M] button

FULL RESET

Use this procedure to restore all Menu and Memory set­tings to their original factory defaults. All Memories will
be cleared by this procedure.

1. Press the front panel [POWER] switch to turn the trans­ceiver off.

2. Press and hold the [FAST] and [LOCK] buttons; while
holding them in, press and hold in the front panel
[

POWER] switch to turn the transceiver on. Once the

transceiver comes on, you may release the buttons.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
When the optional μTuning Kit is connected to the FT­950, disconnect all the cables from the μTuning Kit be-

fore performing the Full Reset.

[

POWER] button

[

FAST] button

[

LOCK] button

Page 7FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

INSTALLATION AND INTERCONNECTIONS

ANTENNA CONSIDERATIONS

The FT-950 is designed for use with any antenna system providing a 50 Ohm resistive impedance at the desired operating
frequency. While minor excursions from the 50-Ohm specification are of no consequence, if the Standing Wave Ratio
(SWR) present at the Antenna jack is greater than 3:1, the transceiver’s Automatic Antenna Tuner may not be able to reduce
the impedance mismatch to an acceptable value.

Every effort should be made to ensure that the impedance of the antenna system be as close as possible to the specified 50­Ohm value. Note that the “G5RV” type antenna does not provide a 50-Ohm impedance on all HF Amateur bands. An
external wide-range antenna coupler must be used with this antenna type.

Any antenna to be used with the FT-950 must be fed from the transceiver with 50 Ohm coaxial cable. Therefore, when
using a “balanced” antenna such as a dipole, remember that a balun or other matching/balancing device must be used to
ensure proper antenna performance.

The same precautions apply to any additional (receive-only) antennas connected to the antenna jacks; if your receive-only
antennas do not have impedance near 50 Ohms at the operating frequency, you may need to install an external antenna tuner
to obtain optimum performance.

ABOUT COAXIAL CABLE

Use high-quality 50-Ohm coaxial cable for the lead-in to your FT-950 transceiver. All efforts at providing an efficient
antenna system will be wasted if poor quality, lossy coaxial cable is used. This transceiver utilizes standard “M” (“PL-259”)
type connectors.

1/16''

Adapter

3/4''

3/4''

1 1/8''

1/8''

5/8''3/8''

TYPICAL PL-259 INSTALLATION

Page 8 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

INSTALLATION AND INTERCONNECTIONS

GROUNDING

The FT-950 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:

 It can minimize the possibility of electrical shock to the operator.
 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.

 It can minimize the possibility of erratic transceiver/accessory operation caused by RF feedback and/or improper cur-

rent 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 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 base 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 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).

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 transceivers, power supplies, and data communica­tions devices (TNCs, etc.) should be made directly to the ground bus using a heavy, braided cable.

Do not “Daisy-Chain” ground connections from one electrical device to another, and thence to the ground bus. This method
may nullify any attempt at effective radio frequency grounding. See the drawing below for examples of proper grounding
techniques.

Inspect the ground system - inside the station as well as outside - on a regular basis to ensure continued performance and
safety.

Besides following the above guidelines 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 must never be used.

Transceiver

PROPER GROUND CONNECTION

Linear

Amplifier

TNC

Transceiver

IMPROPER GROUND CONNECTION

Linear

Amplifier

"Daisy Chain"

TNC

Page 9FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

INSTALLATION AND INTERCONNECTIONS

CONNECTION OF ANTENNA AND POWER CABLES

Please follow the outline in the illustration regarding the proper connection of antenna coaxial cables, as well as the DC
power cable. The DC power connector for the FT-950 must only be connected to a DC source providing 13.8 Volts DC
(±10 %), and capable of at least 22 Amperes of current. Always observe proper polarity when making DC connection:

The RED DC power lead connects to the Positive (+) DC terminal.
The BLACK DC power lead connects to the Negative (–) DC terminal.

Use a short, thick, braided
cable to connect your sta­tion equipment to the bur­ied ground rod (or alterna­tive earth ground system).

”
2
“

A
N
N
E
T
N
A

INPUT

DC IN

: DC 13. 8 V

22 A

EXT
SPKR

2

ROT LINEAR TUNER PTT REC REM KEY

-TUNE

DMU CAT

005510 2015 3020 40

POWER

ON

OFF

VA

CONTINUOUS CURRENT 25A

RED BLACK

OVERLOAD

FUSE: 25A

”
1
“

A
N
N
E
T
N
A

ANT

1

-TUNE

TO

FROM

GND

We recommend the use of the FP-1030A AC Power Supply. Other models of power supplies may be used with the FT-950,
but the 13.8 VDC input voltage, 22-Ampere current capability, and DC cable polarity guidelines described above must be
strictly followed.

Note that other manufacturers may use the same type of DC power connections as does your FT-950 transceiver, however,
the wiring configuration may be different from that specified for your transceiver. Serious damage can be caused if im­proper DC connections are made; consult with a qualified service technician when in doubt.

Permanent damage can result when improper supply voltage, or reverse-polarity voltage, is applied to the FT-950.
The Limited Warranty on this transceiver does not cover damage caused by application of AC voltage, reverse

polarity DC, or DC voltage outside the specified range of 13.8 V ±10 %. When replacing fuses, be certain to use a fuse of
the proper rating. The FT-950 requires a 25 A blade fuse.

ADVICE:

 Do not position the FT-950 in a location with direct exposure to sunshine.
 Do not position the FT-950 in a location exposed to dust and/or high humidity.
 Ensure adequate ventilation around the FT-950, to prevent heat build-up and possible reduction of performance due to

high heat.

 Do not install the FT-950 on an unstable desk or table. Do not place in a location where objects may fall onto it from above.
 To minimize the possibility of interference to home entertainment devices, take all precautionary steps including sepa-

ration of TV/FM antennas from Amateur transmitting antennas to the greatest extent possible, and keep transmitting
coaxial cables separated from cables connected to home entertainment devices.

 Ensure that the DC power cord is not subject to undue stress or bending, which could damage the cable or cause it to be

accidentally unplugged from the rear panel DC IN jack.

 Be certain to install your transmitting antenna(s) so they cannot possibly come in contact with TV/FM radio or other

antennas, or with power or telephone lines.

Page 10 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

INSTALLATION AND INTERCONNECTIONS

CONNECTION OF MICROPHONE AND HEADPHONE

Page 11FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

INSTALLATION AND INTERCONNECTIONS

KEY, KEYER, AND COMPUTER-DRIVEN KEYING INTERCONNECTIONS

The FT-950 includes many features for the CW operator. These functions will be detailed in the “Operation” section later.
Besides the built-in Electronic Keyer, two key jacks are provided, one on the front and one on the rear panel, for convenient
connection to keying devices.

The Menu selections allow you to configure the front and rear panel KEY jacks according to the device you wish to
connect. For example, you may connect your keyer paddle to the front panel KEY jack, and use Menu item “

TYPETYPE

TYPE” for paddle input, and also connect the keying line from your personal computer (which emulates a “straight key”),

TYPETYPE

to the rear panel KEY jack, and configure the rear panel jack using Menu item “

Both KEY jacks on the FT-950 utilize “Positive” keying voltage. Key-up voltage is approximately +3.3V DC, and key­down current is approximately 0.3 mA. When connecting a key or other device to the KEY jacks, use only a 3-contact
(“stereo”) 1/4” phone plug; a 2-contact plug will place a short between the ring and (grounded) shaft of the plug, resulting
in a constant “key-down” condition in some circumstances.

039 A1A R-TYPE039 A1A R-TYPE

039 A1A R-TYPE”.

039 A1A R-TYPE039 A1A R-TYPE

037 A1A F-037 A1A F-

037 A1A F-

037 A1A F-037 A1A F-

KEY

-TUNE

DMU CAT

Page 12 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

INSTALLATION AND INTERCONNECTIONS

VL-1000 LINEAR AMPLIFIER INTERCONNECTIONS

Be sure that both the FT-950 and VL-1000 are turned off, then follow the installation recommendations contained in the
illustration.

NOTE:

 Please refer to the VL-1000 Operating Manual for details regarding amplifier operation.
 Please do not attempt to connect or disconnect coaxial cables when your hands are wet.

50MHz Antenna

1

-TUNE

TO

GND

D
N
G

DC 13.8 V

DC IN

INPUT: DC 13.8 V
22 A

R
A
E
N

I
L

T
U
P
N

I

1
T

N
A

ANT

FROM

2
T

N
A

2

ROT LINEAR TUNER PTT REC REM KEY

Antenna Cable (Not Suppli ed)

-TUNE
EXT
SPKR

DMU CAT

To link the FT-950 and VL-1000 Power
switches, set the VL-1000 REMOTE switch
to the “ON” position.

CT-118 Connection Cable (Option)

HF Antenna

1
T

N
A

ANT 1

ANT 2

ANT 3

ANT 4

Set the front panel’s

T
N
A

T
N
A

“INPUT2”.

REMOTE

ON

OFF

BAND DATA 1

BAND DATA 2

2
A

T
A
D

­D
N
A
B

2
C

L
A

INPUT switch to the

3

2

2
T

U
P
N

I

INPUT 1

PTT 1

PTT 2

INPUT 2

ALC 1

CONTROL

ALC 2

DC48V IN

GND

L

N

I

O

V

R

8

T

4

D
N
G

¾

N

C

O

D

C

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

1

-

-

P

P

V

V

¾

Page 13FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

INSTALLATION AND INTERCONNECTIONS

INTERFACING TO OTHER LINEAR AMPLIFIERS

a
n
n
e

t
n
A
z
H

M
0

5

1
T

N
A

ANT

1

-TUNE

TO

FROM

GND

D
N
G

2
T

N
A

2

INPUT: DC 13.8 V
22 A

ROT

TUNER

LINEAR

R
A
E
N

I
L

Antenna Cable (Not Supplied)

V
8

.
3
1

C
D

T
U
P
N

I

DC IN

EXT

REC

SPKR

PTT

REM KEY

a
n
n
e

t
n
A

F
H

T

T
N
A

-TUNE

DMU CAT

Linear Amplifier Connection Cable (T9 207451: Option)

U
P
N

I

RF INRF OUT

D
N
G

ACFUSEGND

EERYALC

e
u

l
B

-

w

n

t

k

e

o

c

h

l

e

l

a

g

r

l

i

e

L

B

G

Y

NOTE

 The TX GND OUT pin (pin 2) of the LINEAR jack is

a transistor “open collector” circuit. It is capable of
handling positive relay coil voltages up to +60VDC at
200 mA or +30 VDC at 1 A. If you plan to use multiple
linear amplifiers for different bands, you must provide
external band switching of the “Linear Tx” relay con­trol line from the “TX GND OUT” line at the LIN-
EAR jack.

 The specified range for ALC voltage to be used with

the FT-950 is 0 to -4 Volts DC.

 Amplifier systems utilizing different ALC voltages will

not work correctly with the FT-950, and their ALC
lines must not be connected if this is the case.

Note

When the FC-40 is connected to the FT-950, TX
GND (pin 2) of the TUNER jack and the LINEAR
jack (pin 2) are common circuits.

Therefore, the maximum voltage at TX GND (pin

2) of the LINEAR jack must not exceed +5V.

IMPORTANT NOTE!

 Do not exceed the maximum voltage or current ratings

for the “TX GND OUT” pin (pin 2) of the LINEAR
jack. This line is not compatible with negative DC volt­ages, or 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-950 will easily accommodate such amplifi­ers.

Linear Amplifier Connection Cable (T9207451

Color Code Information

Wire Color

Orange
Yellow
Green
Red
White
Blue
Violet
Brown
Black
Gray
Light Blue

LINEA Jack (Pin Number

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9

10

Case

)

+13.8 V
TX GND
GND
BAND DATA A
BAND DATA B
BAND DATA C
BAND DATA D
TX INH
EXT ALC IN
TX REQ IN
Shield

)

Function

Page 14 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

PLUG /CONNECTOR PINOUT DIAGRAMS

MIC CAT

UP
+5V
DOWN
FAST
GND
PTT
MIC GND
MIC

(as viewed from front panel)

+13V OUT
TX GND
GND
BAND DATA A
BAND DATA B
BAND DATA C
BAND DATA D
TX INH
EXT ALC IN
TX REQ IN

(as viewed from rear panel)

ROT ROTATOR

()

N/A
SERIAL OUT
SERIAL IN
N/A
GND
N/A
RTS
CTS
NC

(as viewed from rear panel)

TUNER

+13V OUT
TX GND
GND
RX D
TX D
TUNER SENSE
RESET OUT
TX INH

(as viewed from rear panel)

PHONE

DC IN

(as viewed from rear panel)

RTTY/PKTLINEAR

DATA IN
GND
DATA PTT
FSK IN
DATA OUT
SQL OUT

(as viewed from rear panel)

RCA PLUG

CW ROTATION
CCW ROTATION
SPEED
DIRECTION
GND
NC

(as viewed from rear panel)

REM REMOTE

SIGNAL

()

GND

EXT SPKR

GND

(RIGHT)

GND

SIGNAL or

GND or

()

+

(-- )-

SIGNAL

SIGNAL

(LEFT)

KEY

For Internal Keyer

DOT DASH COMMON

IMPORTANT NOTE:

The μ-TUNE and DMU connectors are special connectors for this trans­ceiver. Please do not connect any accessory or other device not specifically
approved by Vertex Standard. Failure to observe this precaution may cause
damage not covered by the Limited Warranty on this apparatus.

For Straight Key

KEY GND

Do not use
2-conductor type plug

SIGNAL

Page 15FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES

[

POWER] Switch

Press and hold in this switch for two seconds to turn
the transceiver on. Similarly, press and hold in this
switch for two seconds to turn the transceiver off.

[

ANT 1-2] Switch

Pressing this switch selects the ANT 1 or the ANT 2
connector on the rear panel, and allows convenient an­tenna switching at the press of button. The selected
antenna jack is indicated on the Block Diagram Dis­play shown in the Transceiver Display.

[

TUNE] Switch

This is the on/off switch for the FT-950’s Automatic
Antenna Tuner.
Pressing this button momentarily places the antenna
tuner in line between the transmitter final amplifier and
the antenna jack (The “ ” icon will appear in
the display). Reception is not affected.
Pressing and holding in this button for two seconds,
while receiving in an amateur band, activates the trans­mitter for a few seconds while the automatic antenna
tuner rematches the antenna system impedance for
minimum SWR. The resulting setting is automatically
stored in one of the antenna tuner’s 100 memories, for
instant automatic recall later when the receiver is tuned
near the same frequency.
Pressing this button momentarily, while the Tuner is
engaged, will take the Automatic Antenna tuner out of
the transmit line.

NOTE:

When the Automatic Antenna Tuner is tuning itself, a
signal is being transmitted. Therefore, be certain that
an antenna or dummy load is connected to the selected
antenna jack before pressing and holding in the [TUNE
button to start antenna tuning.

]

Page 16 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES

[

MOX] Switch

Pressing this button engages the PTT (Push to Talk)
circuit, to activate the transmitter (the LED inside this
button will glow red). It must be turned off (the red
LED will be off) for reception. This button replicates
the action of the Push to Talk (PTT) switch on the mi­crophone. When engaging the [MOX] button, or oth­erwise causing a transmission to be started, be certain
you have either an antenna or 50-Ohm dummy load
connected to the selected Antenna jack.

[

VOX] Switch

This button enables automatic voice-actuated transmit­ter switching in the SSB, AM, and FM modes. While
activated, the LED inside this button glows red. The
controls affecting VOX operation are the Menu items

114 TGEN V GAIN114 TGEN V GAIN

“

114 TGEN V GAIN”, “

114 TGEN V GAIN114 TGEN V GAIN
116 TGEN ANTI VOX116 TGEN ANTI VOX

“

116 TGEN ANTI VOX”. By proper adjustment of these

116 TGEN ANTI VOX116 TGEN ANTI VOX

controls, hands-free voice-actuated operation is pos­sible.

[

MONI] (Monitor) Switch

This button enables the transmit monitor in SSB, CW,
AM, and FM modes. While activated, the “ ” icon
appears in the display. The Monitor audio level may
be adjusted by turning the [MONI] knob.

ADVICE:

When using headphones, the Monitor function is very
helpful while adjusting the Parametric Equalizer or
other voice quality adjustments. The voice heard in the
headphones represents the transmitted audio qualities.

[

PROC] (Processor) Switch

This button enables the Parametric Microphone Equal­izer and Speech Processor for SSB/AM transmission.
When the Parametric Microphone Equalizer is acti­vated, the “ ” icon appears in the display. When
the Speech Processor is activated, the “ ” and
“ ” icons appear in the display. Adjustment of
the Processor level is accomplished via the Menu item

109 TGEN PROCLVL109 TGEN PROCLVL

“

109 TGEN PROCLVL”.

109 TGEN PROCLVL109 TGEN PROCLVL

ADVICE:

 The Speech Processor is a tool for increasing the

average power output through a compression tech­nique. However, if the Processor level is advanced
too far, the increase in compression becomes
counter-productive, as intelligibility will suffer. We
recommend that you monitor the sound of your sig­nal using the Monitor (with headphones).

 When the optional Data Management Unit (DMU-

2000) is connected, you may use the Audio Scope/

Oscilloscope page to help you adjust the setting of
the compression level of the Speech Processor for
optimum performance using your voice and micro­phone.

115 TGEN VOX DLY115 TGEN VOX DLY

115 TGEN VOX DLY”, and

115 TGEN VOX DLY115 TGEN VOX DLY

[

SPOT] Switch

This button turns on the CW receiver spotting tone; by
matching the SPOT tone to that of the incoming CW
signal (precisely the same pitch), you will be “zero
beating” your transmitted signal on to the frequency of
the other station.
The offset tone frequency will be indicated in the fre­quency display area of the display while this button is
pressed.

[

BK-IN] Switch

This button turns the CW break-in capability on and
off. While CW break-in is activated, the “ ” icon
appears in the display.

[

KEYER] Switch

This button toggles the internal CW keyer on and off.
While activated, the “ ” icon appears in the dis­play. The Keyer sending speed is adjusted via the front
panel’s [SPEED] knob and the CW Hang Time is ad­justed via the Menu item “

[

AGC] Switch

This button selects the AGC characteristics for the re­ceiver. Available selections are FAST, MID, SLOW,
or AUTO. The “AGC” icon will change according to
the AGC characteristics selected.
Press the [AGC] button repeatedly to select the de­sired receiver-recovery time constant. Press and hold
in the [AGC] button for two seconds to disable the
AGC (for testing or weak-signal reception).

ADVICE:

 The Attenuator may be used in conjunction with

the [IPO] button to provide two stages of signal
reduction when an extremely strong signal is being
received.

 If the AGC receiver-recovery time is set to “Off”

by pressing and holding in the [AGC] button, the
S-meter will no longer deflect. Additionally, you
will likely encounter distortion on stronger signals,
as the IF amplifiers and the following stages are
probably being overloaded.

044 A1A DELAY044 A1A DELAY

044 A1A DELAY”.

044 A1A DELAY044 A1A DELAY

Page 17FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES

PHONES Jack

A 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.

NOTE:

When wearing headphones, we recommend that you
turn the AF Gain levels down to their lowest settings
before turning power on, to minimize the impact on
your hearing caused by audio “pops” during switch­on.

[

METER] Switch

This button determines the function of the meter dur­ing transmission.
Press this button to change the meter function in the
transmit mode as follows:

ALC ALC

ÆÆ

SWR SWR

ÆÆ

ID ID

ÆÆ

VDD VDD

ÆÆ

ALC

Æ

SWR

Æ

ID

Æ

ALC ALC

ÆÆ

SWR SWR

ÆÆ

ALCALC

ALC: Indicates the relative ALC voltage.

ALCALC
SWRSWR

SWR: Indicates the Standing Wave Ratio (Forward/

SWRSWR

Reflected).

IDID

ID: Indicates the final amplifier drain current.

IDID
VDDVDD

VDD: Indicates the final amplifier drain voltage.

VDDVDD
COMPCOMP

COMP: Indicates the speech compressor level (SSB/

COMPCOMP

AM modes only).

ID ID

ÆÆ

VDD

VDD VDD

COMP COMP

Æ

COMP

ÆÆ

COMP COMP

ÆÆ

Æ

ÆÆ

ALC ALC

ALC

ALC ALC

……

[

MIC GAIN] Knob

This knob adjusts the microphone input level for (non­processed) SSB and AM transmission.
The frequency display will show the relative micro­phone gain level for 3 seconds whenever this knob is
turned.

ADVICE:

Adjust the [MIC GAIN] knob while speaking in a some­what louder than normal voice level, watch the ALC
level and adjust the [MIC GAIN] knob so that the ALC
level indication just reaches the right edge of the ALC
scale. Then, when you speak in your normal voice level,
you will not be over-driving the microphone amplifier
stages.

[

SPEED] Knob

This knob adjusts the keying speed of the internal CW
keyer (4 ~ 60 WPM). Clockwise rotation increases the
sending speed.
The frequency display will show the keying speed for
3 seconds whenever this knob is turned.

Microphone Connector

This 8-pin jack accepts input from a microphone uti­lizing a traditional YAESU HF transceiver pinout.

Page 18 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES

KEY Jack

This 1/4-inch, 3-contact jack accepts a CW key or keyer
paddles (for the built-in electronic keyer), or output from
an external electronic keyer. Pinout is shown on page

15. Key up voltage is +3.3 V DC, and key down current
is 0.3 mA. This jack may be configured for keyer, “Bug”,
“straight key”, or computer keying interface operation
via Menu item “
There is another jack with the same name on the rear
panel, and it may be configured independently for In­ternal Keyer or pseudo-straight-key operation.

NOTE:

You cannot use a 2-contact plug in this jack (to do so
produces a constant “key down” condition).

[

MONI] Knob

This knob adjusts the audio level of the transmit moni­tor during transmission, when activated by the [MONI
button.

[

SQL] Knob

This knob sets the signal level threshold, below which
the receiver audio is muted, in all modes. It is very
useful during local rag-chews, to eliminate noise be­tween incoming transmissions. This control is normally
kept fully counter-clockwise (off), except when scan­ning and during FM operation.

[

SHIFT] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to move the IF DSP Band­width higher or lower, using the [SELECT] knob. While
activated, the LED inside this button glows orange.

[

NOTCH] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to adjust the center fre­quency of the IF Notch filter using the [SELECT
knob. While activated, the LED inside this button glows
orange. Press the [SELECT] knob briefly to toggle
the IF Notch filter on/off.

[

WIDTH] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to adjust the overall band­width of the IF DSP filter using the [SELECT] knob. While
activated, the LED inside this button glows orange.

[

μ-TUNE] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to adjust the center fre­quency of the μ-Tuning filter passband using the [SE-

LECT] knob, when the optional RF μTuning Kit is

connected. While activated, the LED inside this but­ton glows orange. Press the [SELECT] knob briefly
to toggle the μ-Tuning function on/off.

[

CONT] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to select the DSP Con­tour filter response using the [SELECT] knob. While
activated, the LED inside this button glows orange.
Press the [SELECT] knob briefly to toggle the IF
Contour filter on/off.
Furthermore, in the CW mode, press and hold this but­ton for 2 seconds to activate the APF (Audio Peak Fil­ter) which provides a very narrow audio bandwidth.

037 A1A F-TYPE037 A1A F-TYPE

037 A1A F-TYPE” (see page 111).

037 A1A F-TYPE037 A1A F-TYPE

The APF circuit is an automatic circuit, and there is no
adjustment knob for the APF.

[

CLEAR] Switch

Pressing this button will reset to factory default the
functions, which are selected with the five buttons at
the left of this button.

[

SELECT] Knob

This knob is used to adjust the status of the functions
selected by the five buttons located above the knob.

FUNCTION

SWITCH

[

]

SHIFT

]

[

WIDTH

[

CONT

[

NOTCH

]

[

μ-TUNE

If the [SELECT] knob is turned too slowly, the frequency
display may not show the value. This is to prevent undes­ired display of the functions caused by noise or slight vi­bration of the controls; however, the actual value will be
changed even if not displayed.
You can observe the fine adjustment for a few seconds
while the display is active.
While adjusting functions, the display may occasionally skip
one of the numbers in the sequence; this is due to “round­ing” of the encoder steps in the ADC converter. Set the
values to your preference, they are unique to your radio
and may not directly correspond to other units.

Rotate the [SELECT] knob to move the pass­band of the IF DSP filter by 20 Hz steps. The
total adjustment range is ±1 kHz. The position
of the passband can be observed on the dis­play. Furthermore, the frequency display will
show the shift value of the IF SHIFT for 3 sec­onds whenever the [SELECT] knob is turned.

]

Rotate the [SELECT] knob to set the overall
bandwidth of the IF DSP filter. Counter-clock­wise rotation reduces the bandwidth, while
clockwise rotation increases the bandwidth.
The current bandwidth can be observed on the
display. Furthermore, the frequency display will
show the bandwidth of the IF passband for 3
seconds whenever the [SELECT] knob is
turned.

]

Press the [SELECT] knob to turn the CON­TOUR filter on and off. Rotate the [SELECT
knob to adjust the CONTOUR filter response.
The peak position of the CONTOUR filter can
be observed on the display. Furthermore, the
frequency display will show the CONTOUR fre­quency for 3 seconds whenever the [SELECT
knob is turned.

]

Press the [SELECT] knob to turn the IF NOTCH
filter on and off. Rotate the [SELECT] knob to
adjust the center frequency of the IF NOTCH
filter. The null position of the IF NOTCH filter
can be observed on the display. Furthermore,
the frequency display will show the center fre­quency of the IF NOTCH filter for 3 seconds
whenever the [SELECT] knob is turned.

]

Press the [SELECT] knob to turn the optional
RF μTuning Kit on and off. Rotate the [SE-

LECT] knob to adjust the center frequency of

the μ-Tuning filter. The peak position of the μ-
Tuning filter can be observed on the Tuning
Offset Indicator field of the display.

EFFECT

]

]

The [SELECT] knob is also used to select the Menu
item when the Menu mode is engaged.
Press and hold the [SELECT] knob for one second to
activate the optional Voice Memory feature for the SSB/
AM/FM modes, or the Contest Keyer for the CW mode.
See page 64 (Voice Memory feature) or page 78 (Con­test Keyer) for details.

Page 19FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES

[(

VFO-A)RX] Indicator/Switch

Press this button to activate receive on the VFO-A fre­quency. The LED inside the button will glow green
when the transceiver receives the VFO-A frequency.
When the transceiver receives the VFO-A frequency,
pressing this button momentarily will mute the receiver,
and the indicator will blink. Pressing the button once
more will restore receiver operation, and the indicator
will glow green steadily.

QMB (Quick Memory Bank) Switches

[

] (

STO

Store) Button

Pressing the [STO] button copies the contents (fre­quency, mode, bandwidth, and also FM repeater fre­quency shift/direction and CTCSS functions) of VFO­A, into consecutive QMB Memories.

[

] (

RCL

Recall) Button

Pressing the [RCL] button, recalls one of up to five
Quick Memory Bank memories for operation.

[

] (

NAR

In the SSB/CW/RTTY/PSK modes, this button is used
to set the DSP (digital) IF filters to Narrow bandwidth.

ADVICE:

You may adjust the bandwidth using the [SELECT
knob when the [WIDTH] button is engaged.
In the AM mode, this button is used to toggle the
receiver’s bandwidth between wide (9 kHz) and nar­row (6 kHz).
In the FM mode on the 28 MHz and 50 MHz bands,
this button is used to toggle the FM deviation/band­width between wide (±5.0 kHz Dev./25.0 kHz BW)
and narrow (±2.5 kHz Dev./12.5 kHz BW).

[

SPLIT] Switch

Press this button to operate split frequency between
VFO-A (used for reception) and VFO-B (used for trans­mission). If you press and hold in the [SPLIT] button
for one second, the “Quick Split” feature will be en­gaged. VFO-B will automatically be set to a frequency
5 kHz higher than the VFO-A frequency, with the same
operating mode. The transceiver will be placed in the
Split mode.

Narrow) Switch

]

Page 20 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES

[

Pressing this button lets you monitor the transmit fre­quency when split frequency operation is engaged.
Release the button to return to normal split frequency
operation.

[

Press this button momentarily to directly recall a fa­vorite Menu Selection.
To program a Menu selection to the [C.S] button: press
the [MENU] button to enter the Menu. Select the Menu
item you want to set as the short cut. Then press and
hold in the [C.S] button for one second; this will lock
in the selected Menu item as the short cut.

[

This button is used to access the Menu system. The
various transceiver characteristics may be configured.
Menu operation is described in detail, in this manual,
beginning on page 104.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Pressing this button momentarily, activates the Menu.
The Menu items will appear on the display; once you
have changed the parameters, you must press and hold
in the [MENU] button for one second to save any con­figuration changes (momentarily pressing the [MENU
button to exit will not save the changes).

] (

TXW

TX Watch) Switch

C.S] Switch

MENU] Switch

Main Tuning Dial Knob

This large knob adjusts the operating frequency of the
VFO-A or a recalled memory. Clockwise rotation of
this knob increases the frequency. Default tuning in­crements are 10 Hz (100 Hz in AM and FM modes);
when the [FAST] button is pressed, the tuning steps
increase. The available steps are:

OPERATING MODE

LSB/USB/CW/RTTY/PKT(LSB
AM/FM/PKT(FM

Numbers in parentheses indicate steps when the [FAST] button is On.

ADVICE:

The tuning steps for the Main Tuning Dial knob are
set, at the factory, to 10 Hz per step. Via Menu item

084 TUN DIALSTP084 TUN DIALSTP

“

084 TUN DIALSTP”, however, you may change this

084 TUN DIALSTP084 TUN DIALSTP

setting from 10 Hz to 1 or 5 Hz instead.

[(

VFO-A)TX] Indicator/Switch

When this button is pushed, the LED inside the button
will glow red; and, when the PTT switch is pressed,
the transceiver will transmit on the VFO-A frequency
(subject to any Clarifier offset, of course).

ADVICE:

If this indicator is not illuminated, it means the [(VFO-

B)TX] Indicator/Switch has been selected (it will be

glowing red). In this case, transmission will be on the
frequency and mode programmed for VFO-B.

)

1 STEP

)

10 Hz (100 Hz
100 Hz (1 kHz

1 DIAL ROTATION

)

10 kHz (100 kHz

)

100 kHz (1 MHz

)
)

[

FAST] Switch

Pressing this button will change the tuning rate of the
Main Tuning Dial knob (VFO-A) or the VFO-B Tun­ing Knob ([CLAR/VFO-B] knob) to 100 Hz/step.
When this function is activated, the “ ” icon ap­pears in the display.

ADVICE:

This switch affects VFO-A and VFO-B independently.

[

LOCK] Switch

This button toggles locking on/off for the Main Tun­ing Dial knob (VFO-A) or the VFO-B Tuning Knob

([

CLAR/VFO-B] knob). With “Lcok” on, the Main

Tuning Dial knob or [CLAR/VFO-B] knob can still
be turned, but the frequency will not change, and the
“ ” icon appears in the display.

ADVICE:

This switch locks VFO-A and VFO-B independently.

[

XX

X

XX

A

B] Switch

Press this button momentarily to transfer the frequency
or memory channel data, from VFO-A to VFO-B, over­writing any previous contents in VFO-B. Use this key
to set both VFO-A and VFO-B to the same frequency
and mode.

]

XX

X

XX

[

WW

A

W

B] Switch

WW

Pressing this button momentarily, exchanges the fre­quency or memory channel data, of VFO-A and VFO-B.

[

V/M] Switch

This button toggles frequency control between VFO­A and the memory system. In memory mode, either
“ ” or “ ” icon will be shown under the frequency
Display field to indicate the current selection. If you
have tuned the frequency off the Memory channel, the
“ ” icon will be displayed. Pressing the [V/M] but­ton returns the display to the original memory fre­quency, and the “ ” icon will again be displayed.
Pressing it once more returns frequency operation to
the VFO-A, and the icon will no longer be displayed.

[

XX

X

XX

M

A] Switch

Pressing this button momentarily, will display the con­tents of the currently-selected memory channel for 10
seconds.
Holding [MXA] button in for one second copies the
data from the selected memory to VFO-A, and two
beeps sound. Previous data in VFO-A will be over­written.

[

XX

X

XX

A

M] Switch

Pressing this button momentarily, displays the contents
of the currently-selected memory channel for 10 seconds.
Pressing and holding in this key for one second (until
the double beep) copies the current operating data into
the currently selected memory channel, overwriting any
previous data stored there.

Page 21FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES

[

BAND] Keys

These keys allow one-touch selection of the desired
Amateur band (1.8 ~ 50 MHz).
The keys may also be used for direct entry of a desired
operating frequency during VFO operation.

[

MODE] Switches

Pressing one of these switches, selects the operating
mode, as shown in the chart below. Repeated presses
of a particular switch will toggle to the alternate mode,
or step through the available selections. For example
pressing [SSB] button repeatedly toggles between
“LSB” and “USB” mode.
For [RTTY/PKT] operation, press the button briefly
to toggle between “RTTY” and “PKT”. Press and hold
the button, repeatedly, to step through
“PKT(LSB)” J “PKT(USB)” J

“PKT(FM)” J “PKT(LSB)”

SWITCH

[

]

SSB
[CW]
[

]

AM/FM
[

RTTY/PKT

]

Momentarily: RTTY(LSB) Q PKT(LSB
Press & Hold: RTTY(LSB) Q RTTY(USB) or

VARIABLE MODE SELECTIONS

CW(LSB) Q CW(USB

PKT(LSB) J PKT(USB) J

....

LSB Q USB

AM Q FM

PKT(FM) J PKT(LSB)

)

)

....

[

ATT] Switch

This button selects the degree of attenuation, if any, to
be applied to the receiver input.
Available selections are –6 dB, –12 dB, –18 dB, or
OFF. The attenuation level appears in the ATT column
of the Block Diagram Display on the display.

ADVICE:

The Attenuator may be used in conjunction with the
[

IPO] button to provide two stages of signal reduction

when an extremely strong signal is being received.

[

IPO] (I

This button may be used to set the optimum front end
characteristics of the receiver circuit for a very strong
signal environment. Available selections are AMP 1
(low distortion amplifier), AMP 2 (2-stage low-distor­tion RF amplifier), or ON (bypasses the front end RF
amplifier), and the selected receiver RF amplifier ap­pears in the IPO column of the Block Diagram Dis­play on the display.

NTERCEPT POINT OPTIMIZATION

)

Switch

Page 22 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

FRONT PANEL CONTROLS & SWITCHES

[

R.FLT] (R

This button selects the bandwidth of the receiver first
IF Roofing Filter. Available selections are 3 kHz, 6
kHz, 15 kHz, or Auto. The selected bandwidth appears
in the FLT column of the Block Diagram Display on
the display.

ADVICE:

Because the roofing filter is in the first IF, the protec­tion it provides against interference is quite significant.
When set to AUTO, SSB bandwidth is 6 kHz, CW is 3
kHz, FM and RTTY are 15 kHz. On a crowded SSB
band, however, you may wish to select the 3 kHz filter,
for the maximum possible interference rejection.

[NB]

Switch

This button turns the IF Noise Blanker on and off.
Press this button momentarily to reduce short-duration
pulse noise; the “ ” icon will appear in the display.
Press and hold this button in for one second to reduce
longer-duration man-made pulse noises; the “ ”
icon will blink for three seconds, then will appear con­tinuously in the display.
Press this button again to disable the noise blanker;
the “ ” icon will disappear.

[

AF GAIN

[

AF GAIN] Knob

The inner [AF GAIN] knob sets the receiver’s audio
volume level. Typically, you will operate with this con­trol set between the 9 o’clock and 10 o’clock posi­tions.

[

RF GAIN] Knob

The outer [RF GAIN] knob is the receiver’s RF gain
control, which adjusts the gain of the receiver’s RF
and IF amplifier stages. This control is normally left in
the fully clockwise position.

[

RX CLAR] Switch

Pressing this button activates the RX Clarifier. This
will allow you to temporarily adjust the receiving fre­quency up to ±9.99 kHz with the [CLAR/VFO-B
knob. Press this button once more to return the receiver
to the original frequency; the Clarifier offset will be
remembered, in case you want to use it again. To can­cel the Clarifier offset, press the [CLEAR] button.

[

TX CLAR] Switch

Pressing this button activates the TX Clarifier, to al­low offsetting the transmit frequency temporarily. Press
this button once more to return the transmitter to the
original frequency; the Clarifier offset will be remem­bered, though, in case you want to use it again. To can­cel the Clarifier offset, press the [CLEAR] button.

OOFING FILTER

] [

RF GAIN] Knobs

)

Switch

[(

VFO-B)RX] Indicator/Switch

This button switches the receiving frequency to VFO­B, the green LED imbedded within the button will light
up. Pressing this button again will return the receiving
frequency to VFO-A, and the imbedded green LED
will turn off.

[(

VFO-B)TX] Indicator/Switch

This button transfers control of the transmit frequency/
mode to VFO-B, and the red LED in the button will
light up. Pressing this button again will transfer fre­quency/mode control back to the VFO-A side, and the
red LED imbedded within this button will turn off.

[

BAND] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to select the operating
band (Amateur bands) by turning the [CLAR/VFO-

B] knob.

[

GRP] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to select the memory
group by turning the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob.

[

MHz] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to tune the VFO fre­quency down or up in 1 MHz increments, using the

[

CLAR/VFO-B] knob.

[

CLAR/VFO-B] Knob

This knob usually tunes the Clarifier offset frequency
up to ±9.99 kHz. Additionally, it is used to adjust the
functions selected with five buttons located around the
knob.

FUNCTION

SWITCH

[(

VFO-B)RX

[

BAND

[

GRP

]

[

MHz

[

MCH

[

MCH] Switch

Pressing this button allows you to select the memory
channel using the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob.

]

Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to adjust
the VFO-B frequency, in the same step as
the Main Tuning Dial knob. The Frequency
Display will be changed to show the VFO-

]

]

]

]

B frequency.
Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to change
the amateur band selection.
Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to select
the memory group.
Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to tune the
VFO frequency in 1 MHz step.
Rotate the [CLAR/VFO-B] knob to select
the memory channel.

EFFECT

[

CLEAR] Switch

Pressing this button clears out any frequency offset you
have programmed into the Clarifier register (thereby
setting the offset to “Zero”).

Page 23FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

DISPLAY INDICATIONS

(

LEFT SIDE

)

PROC

This indicator appears whenever the DSP Speech Pro­cessor is activated.

MONI

This indicator appears whenever the transmit monitor
circuit is activated.

KEYER

This indicator appears whenever the internal CW keyer
is activated.

BK-IN

This indicator appears whenever CW break-in opera­tion is activated.

NB

This indicator appears when the receiver’s “short-du­ration” Noise Blanker is activated.
This indicator will blink for three seconds, and there­after appears continuously, when the receiver’s “longer
pulse” Noise Blanker is activated.

NAR

This indicator appears whenever the receiver’s narrow
IF DSP filter is engaged.

S/PO

On receive, this indicates the received signal strength,
from S-0 to S-9+60dB on receiving.
On transmit, it indicates the RF Power Output, from 0
to 150 Watts on transmit.

ADVICE:

The S and PO meters can be set to the Peak-hold func­tion via the Menu items “

DISP PKH PODISP PKH PO

DISP PKH PO”.

DISP PKH PODISP PKH PO

007 DISP PKH S007 DISP PKH S

007 DISP PKH S” and “

007 DISP PKH S007 DISP PKH S

008008

008

008008

Multi Function Meter

The five Transmit Multi-Meter functions are listed be­low.

ALC
SWR

ID

VDD

COMP

Indicates the relative ALC voltage.
Indicates the Standing Wave Ratio
(Forward: Reflected), from 1.0 to 3.0.
Indicates the final amplifier drain current,
0 to 30 ampere.
Indicates the final amplifier drain voltage
(nominal value: 13.8 V).
Indicates the speech compressor level,
from 0 to 30 dB.

The function displayed is selected by repeatedly press­ing the [METER] switch, to step through the available

Æ

meter displays. (

Æ

ADVICE:

The ALC and ID meters can be set to the Peak-hold
function via the Menu items “
and “

....

ALC ALC

ALC

ALC ALC

010 DISP PKH ID010 DISP PKH ID

010 DISP PKH ID”.

010 DISP PKH ID010 DISP PKH ID

ALC ALC

ALC

ALC ALC

)

Æ

SWR SWR

SWR

SWR SWR

Æ

ID ID

ID

ID ID

009 DISP PKH ALC009 DISP PKH ALC

009 DISP PKH ALC”

009 DISP PKH ALC009 DISP PKH ALC

VDD VDD

VDD

VDD VDD

Æ

COMP COMP

COMP

COMP COMP

TUNER

This indicator appears when the internal Automatic An­tenna Tuner is activated.

HI-SWR

This indicator appears if the directional coupler and
microprocessor detect an abnormally high SWR con­dition (over 3.0:1) that cannot be resolved by the Au­tomatic Antenna Tuner.

NOTE:

If this indicator appears, check to be sure that you have
the correct antenna selected for the current operating
band. Also check the condition of the antenna, the co­axial cable, and/or the connectors on the cable, to lo­cate and correct the fault.

MIC EQ

This indicator appears whenever the Three-Band Para­metric Microphone Equalizer is activated via the Menu.

REC

This indicator appears while the optional Voice
Memory Unit is recording your voice message, or the
Contest Keyer is recording your CW keying.

PLAY

This indicator appears while the optional Voice
Memory Unit is playing back the recorded voice mes­sage, or the recorded Contest CW keying.

Page 24 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

DISPLAY INDICATIONS

(

CENTER

)

Block Diagram Display

ANT (1, 2):

Indicates the antenna selected by the front panel [ANT

1-2] button.
ATT (OFF, –6 dB, –12 dB, –18 dB):

Indicates the attenuation level, selected by the front
panel [ATT] button.

FLT (μ-TUNE, THRU):

Indicates when the optional μ-TUNE RF filter is se­lected by the front panel [μ-TUNE] button.

ADVICE:

The icon will not appear unless the optional μ-TUNE
unit is connected.

IPO (AMP 1, AMP 2, ON):

Indicates which front end RF amplifier is selected by
the front panel [IPO] button.

R.FLT (AUTO, 3 kHz, 6 kHz, 15 kHz):

Indicates the receiver IF Roofing Filter, which is se­lected by the front panel [R.FLT] button.

AGC (AUTO, FAST, MID, SLOW):

Indicates the AGC decay time setting, selected by the
front panel [AGC] switch.

DNR

This indicator appears whenever the Digital Noise Re­duction feature is activated.

DNF

This indicator appears whenever the Digital Notch Fil­ter is activated.

CONTOUR

The peak position of the CONTOUR Filter is graphi­cally depicted here when the CONTOUR Filter is acti­vated.

NOTCH

The null position of the IF Notch Filter is graphically
depicted here when the IF Notch Filter is activated.

WIDTH

Indicates the bandwidth setting of the DSP IF filter.

SHIFT

Graphically indicates the peak position of the DSP IF
filter.

Page 25FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

DISPLAY INDICATIONS

(

RIGHT SIDE

)

TX

This indicator appears during transmission.

BUSY

This indicator appears whenever the receiver squelch
is open. If this indicator is not showing, and reception
seems to have been lost on the receiver for no apparent
reason, check the position of the [SQL] knob and ro­tate it fully counter-clockwise to restore reception.

FAST

This indicator appears when the Main Tuning Dial
knob’s, tuning rate is set to “fast”.

LOCK

This indicator appears when the Main Tuning Dial knob
is locked.

LSB, USB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY, PKT

Displays the current operating mode.

Tuning Offset Indicator

This is a tuning scale that, as configured from the fac­tory, provides a visual CW tuning indication of the in­coming signal’s offset from your transceiver’s CW car­rier frequency, as programmed by the relative clarifier
offset, or the peak position of the optional μ-TUNE
filter.

CLAR

This indicator appears whenever the Clarifier function
is activated.

MR

This indicator appears when the FT-950 is in the
Memory Recall mode.

MT

This indicator appears when the FT-950 is in the
Memory Tune mode to indicate that the memory con­tents have been temporarily changed.

Multi-Display Window

This window displays either the Clarifier offset or the
Memory Channel Number.

ADVICE:

 During FM operation, the Repeater Shift will be

indicated in this window. A Negative frequency shift
will be indicated by “–” while a Positive frequency
shift will be indicated by “+”.

 When setting the Menu items, the current setting

will appear in this area.

 When setting the CTCSS Tone Squelch Encoding,

the current repeater shift direction will appear in
this area.

 When controlling the optional rotator, the antenna

direction will appear in this area during setup.

Frequency Display

This is the frequency display.

ADVICE:

 When adjusting the keying speed of the internal

CW keyer, the keying speed will appear in this area
during setup.

 When adjusting the “null” position of the Notch

filter, the center frequency of the Notch filter will
appear in this area during setup.

 When adjusting the “null” or “peak” position of

the Contour filter, the center frequency of the Con­tour filter will appear in this area during setup.

 When adjusting the microphone gain, the micro-

phone gain level will appear in this area during
setup.

 When adjusting the passband of the IF DSP filter,

the shift value of the IF SHIFT will appear in this
area during setup.

 When adjusting the bandwidth of the IF DSP filter,

the bandwidth of the IF passband will appear in
this area during setup.

 When setting the Menu items, the Menu item num-

ber, Menu group name, and Menu item name will
appear in this area during setup.

 When setting the CTCSS frequency for Encoding

or Tone Squelch operation, the current tone infor­mation will appear in this area during setup.

 When controlling the optional rotator, the current

rotation speed will appear in this area during setup.

Page 26 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

REAR PANEL

GND

ANT

1

-TUNE

TO

FROM

2

ROT LINEAR TUNER PTT REC REM KEY

INPUT

DC IN

: DC 13.8 V

22 A

ANT 1/2 Jacks

Connect your main antenna(s) here, using a type-M
(PL-259) connector and coaxial feed lines. The inter­nal antenna tuner affects only the antenna(s) connected
here, and only during transmission.

DC IN Jack

This is the DC power supply connection for the trans­ceiver. Use the supplied DC cable to connect directly
to a DC power supply, which must be capable of sup­plying at least 22 A @13.8 VDC.

GND

Use this terminal to connect the transceiver to a good
earth ground, for safety and optimum performance. Use
a large diameter, short braided cable for making ground
connections, and please refer to page 9 for other notes
about proper grounding.

-TUNE
EXT
SPKR

DMU CAT

TUNER Jack

This 8-pin output jack is used for connection to the
FC-40 External Automatic Antenna Tuner. Pinout is
shown on page 15.

RTTY/PKT Jack

This 6-pin input/output jack accepts AFSK input from
a Terminal Node Controller (TNC); it also provides
fixed level (100-mV @600 Ohms) receiver audio out­put, and FSK keying line. Pinout is shown on page 15.

PTT Jack

This RCA input jack may be used to provide manual
transmitter activation using a footswitch or other
switching device. Its function is identical to the [MOX
button on the front panel. The same line is available at
the RTTY/PKT jack for TNC control. Open-circuit
voltage is +5 VDC, and closed-circuit current is 1 mA.

]

μ-TUNE Jacks

These jacks are used to connect the optional RF μTun-
ing Kit, signal in and signal out.

ROT (ROTATOR) Jack

This covered 6-pin MINI-DIN Jack accepts a cable to
connect to a YAESU Antenna Rotator Control, G-
800DXA, 1000DXA, or 2800DXA (listed models are
current as of early 2009). You may control the antenna
azimuth, rotation, and rotation speed, using the

[

BAND] buttons on the front panel.

LINEAR Jack

This 10-pin output jack provides band selection data,
which may be used for control of optional accessories
such as the VL-1000 Solid-state Linear Amplifier.
Pinout is shown on page 15.

REC Jack

This RCA jack provides low-level receiver audio out­put and transmit (monitor) audio output (requires the

[

MONI] button is turned on), for recording or external

amplification. Peak signal level is 30 mVp-p at 10
kOhms.

REM (REMOTE) Jack

By plugging in the optional FH-2 Remote Control Key­pad to this gold-plated jack, direct access to the FT-
950 CPU is provided for control functions such as con­test memory keying, plus frequency and function con­trol.

Page 27FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL

REAR PANEL

GND

ANT

1

-TUNE

TO

FROM

2

ROT L INEAR TUNER PTT REC REM KEY

INPUT

DC IN

: DC 13.8 V

22 A

EXT SPKR Jack

This 3.5-mm, 2-contact, gold-plated jack provides vari­able audio output for an external loudspeaker. The au­dio output impedance at this jack is 4 - 8 Ohms, and
the level varies according to the setting of the front
panel [AF GAIN] knob. Inserting a plug into this jack
disables the internal loudspeaker.

KEY Jack

This 1/4-inch 3-contact jack accepts a CW key or keyer
paddle. A two-contact plug cannot be used in this jack.
Key-up voltage is +3.3 V DC, and key-down current is

0.3 mA. Plug wiring is shown on page 15. This jack
may be configured for keyer, “Bug”, “straight key”, or
computer keying interface operation via Menu item

039 A1A R-TYPE039 A1A R-TYPE

“

039 A1A R-TYPE”.

039 A1A R-TYPE039 A1A R-TYPE

-TUNE
EXT
SPKR

DMU CAT

DMU Jack

This covered 8-pin mini-DIN jack accepts a cable to
connect an optional DMU-2000 Data Management
Unit.

CAT Jack

This 9-pin serial DB-9 jack allows external computer
control of the FT-950. Connect a serial cable here and
to the RS-232C COM port on your personal computer
(no external interface is required).

PGM-SW Switch

This slide switch is used for updating the transceiver’s
firmware. The update software and instructions are
available for download from the Vertex Standard
website (http://www.yaesu.com/).

μ-TUNE Jack

This covered 10-pin mini-DIN jack is used for control
of the optional RF μTuning Kit.

Page 28 FT-950 OPERATING MANUAL