Page 1
50/144/430MHZ TRIPLE-BAND
HEAVY DUTY FM TRANSCEIVER
VX- 5R
OPERATING MANUAL
VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.
4-8-8 Nakameguro, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo 153-8644, Japan
VERTEX STANDARD
US Headquarters
10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
YAESU EUROPE B.V.
P.O. Box 75525, 1118 ZN Schiphol, The Netherlands
YAESU UK LTD.
Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Close
Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.
VERTEX STANDARD HK LTD.
Unit 5, 20/F., Seaview Centre, 139-141 Hoi Bun Road,
Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Page 2
Contents
Introduction .......................................... 1
Controls & Connections ....................... 2
Display Icons & Indicators .................. 3
Keypad Function .................................. 4
Accessories & Options .......................... 6
Installation of Accessories .................... 7
Antenna Installation ............................................. 7
Belt Clip Installation ............................................ 7
Installation of FNB-80LI Battery Pack ................ 8
Installation of FBA-23 Alkaline Battery Case ..... 9
Battery Life Information .................................... 10
AC Operation Using NC-72 .............................. 10
Interface of Packet TNCs ................... 11
Operation............................................. 12
Switching Power On and Off ............................ 12
Adjusting the Volume Level .............................. 12
Squelch Adjustment ........................................... 12
Selecting the Operating Band ............................ 13
Frequency Navigation ........................................ 14
Transmission ..................................................... 15
AM Broadcast Reception .................................. 15
AM Aircraft Reception ...................................... 16
FM Broadcast/TV Audio Reception .........
Weather Broadcast Reception ............................ 17
Keypad/LCD Illumination ................................. 18
Advanced Operation .......................... 20
Setting the Frequency Display Image Size ........ 20
VFO Split Mode ................................................ 21
VFO Linking ..................................................... 22
Changing the Channel Steps .............................. 22
Changing the Operating Mode .......................... 23
Repeater Operation ............................................ 24
CTCSS Operation .............................................. 26
DCS Operation .................................................. 27
Tone Search Scanning ....................................... 28
CTCSS/DCS Bell Operation ............................. 29
Tone Calling (1750 Hz) ..................................... 29
Changing the Transmitter Power Level ............. 30
Changing the TX Deviation Level ..................... 30
Transmitter Time-Out Timer (TOT) .................. 31
Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO) ...................... 31
Receive Battery Saver Setup ............................. 32
TX Battery Saver ............................................... 32
Disabling the BUSY/TX LED ........................... 33
Battery Utilization Monitor ............................... 33
Automatic Power-Off (APO) Feature ................ 33
Automatic Power-On Feature ............................ 34
Keyboard Locking ............................................. 34
Disabling the Keypad Beeper ............................ 35
Checking the Battery Voltage ............................ 35
Temperature Display ......................................... 35
DTMF Operation ............................................... 36
Emergency Channel Operation .......................... 37
ARTS (
Automatic Range Transponder System
Memory Mode ..................................... 42
Memory Storage ................................................ 42
Storing Independent Transmit Frequencies ....... 42
Memory Recall .................................................. 43
HOME Channel Memory .................................. 43
Labeling Memories ............................................ 44
Memory Offset Tuning ...................................... 44
Masking Memories ............................................ 45
Memory Group Operation ................................. 45
Scanning .............................................. 46
VFO Scanning ................................................... 47
16
Memory Scanning ............................................. 47
How to Skip a Channel During Memory Scan .. 48
Preferential Memory Scan ................................. 48
Programmable Memory Scan (PMS) ................ 49
“Priority Channel” Scanning (Dual Watch) ....... 50
Automatic Lamp Illumination on Scan Stop ..... 51
Band Edge Beeper ............................................. 51
Smart Search Operation .................... 52
Spectrum Analyzer Operation .......... 53
Barometric Pressure/
Altitude Metering .......... 54
Display Customization ....................... 56
Icon Mode ......................................................... 56
Meter Symbols .................................................. 56
Power-Off Display Mode .................................. 57
Display Contrast ................................................ 57
Reset ..................................................... 58
Cloning ................................................. 59
Set Mode .............................................. 60
Specifications ....................................... 70
Installation of the SU-1 ...................... 72
) ....... 38
Page 3
Introduction
The VX-5R is a miniature triband FM transceiver with extensive receive frequency coverage, providing leading-edge features for VHF and UHF two-way amateur communications
along with unmatched monitoring capability.
The VX-5R’s small size allows you to take it anywhere - hiking, skiing, or while walking
around town, and its operating flexibility brings the user many avenues of operating enjoyment. Besides 50, 144, and 430 MHz transceive operation, the VX-5R provides receive
coverage of the AM (MF) and FM broadcast bands, HF Shortwave Bands up to 16 MHz,
VHF and UHF TV bands, the VHF AM aircraft band, and a wide range of commercial and
public safety frequencies! And the optional Barometer pressure Sensor Unit provides readout
of barometric pressure and altitude while mountain climbing or hiking.
The transmitter section provides 5 Watts of clean power output on the 50 MHz and 144
MHz bands with the supplied FNB-80LI Battery Pack, and 4.5 Watts output on 430 MHz.
When 13.8V DC power is supplied from an external source, power output is five watts on
all bands. A wide variety of tone signaling formats are built into the VX-5R, in addition to
Yaesu’s exclusive ARTS™ (Auto-Range Transponder System), which “beeps” the user
when you move out of communications range with another ARTS™-equipped station.
We appreciate your purchase of the VX-5R, and encourage you to read this manual thoroughly, so as to learn about the many exciting features of your exciting new Yaesu handheld transceiver!
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 1
Page 4
Controls & Connections
This indicator
ANTENNA
Connect the supplied rebber flex
antenna (or another antenna presenting a 50Ω impedance) here.
VOLUME
This control adjusts the audio volume level. Clockwise rotation increases the volume level.
glows Red during
transmission, and
Green when a signal is being received (of sufficient strength to
open the noise
squelch).
TX/BUSY
DIAL
The main tuning
Dial is used for
setting the operating frequency, and
also is used for
Menu selections
and other adjustments.
Press this key to
PTT
transmit, and release
it to receive after your
transmission is completed.
MONI
Pressing this key disables the noise
squelching action, allowing you to hear
very weak signals
near the background
noise level.
PWR
Press and hold this
switch for one second
to toggle the transceiver’s power on and
off.
These 17 keys select many
KEYPAD
of the most important operating features on the VX-5R.
The function of the keys are
described in detail on pages
4 and 5.
MIC/SP
This four-conductor
miniature jack provides connection
points for microphone
audio, earphone audio, PTT, and ground.
EXT DC
This coaxial DC jack
allows connection to
an external DC power
source (10-16V DC).
The center pin of this
jack is the Positive
(+) line.
MIC
The internal microphone is located at
the bottom right-hand
corner of the display.
SPEAKER
The internal speaker
is located directly below the display.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL2
Page 5
Display Icons & Indicators
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 3
Page 6
Keypad Functions
Press Key
Press [F/W] +
Press and hold
Key
Press Key
Press [F/W] +
BAND(SET)AR
Change the Frequency
Enter the “Set” (Menu)
Band
mode.
Activate the ARTS
Feature.
[
HM/RV(EMG
Reverse the transmit
and receive frequen-
cies while working
through a repeater.
Switch to the “Home”
(favorite frequency)
Channel.
][
TM
)]
[1(TN)
Frequency Entry
Digit “1”
Activate CTCSS or
DCS Operation.
Enables display of the
Sub-band Frequency.
[4(MG)
Frequency Entry
Digit “4”
Activate the Memory
Group mode.
][
FRQ
][
DSP
2(CD)TAG
Frequency Entry
Digit “2”
Select the CTCSS tone
frequency or DCS
code number.
Select the display type
(Frequency or
Frequency+Alpha-
numeric Tag) during
Memory operation.
5(AP)ICO
Frequency Entry
Digit “5”
Activate the Automatic
Power-Off Feature.
]
]
Press and hold
Key
Press Key
Press [F/W] +
Press and hold
Key
Activate the E
Feature.
TX PO(LOCK
Select the desired
transmitter power
output level.
Activate the Key
Lockout Feature.
None
MERGENCY
)]
Switches display
between Large
Character and Small
Character mode.
[7(ST)
Frequency Entry
Digit “7”
Select the synthesizer
steps to be used
during VFO operation.
Display the current
temperature inside the
transceiver’s case.
][
TMP
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL4
Switch the display
lavels between the
“Alpha-numeric” and
“Icon” formats.
8(BRO
Frequency Entry
Display the current
Barometric Pressure.
)][
Digit “8”
None
Page 7
Keypad Functions
]
VLT
Frequency Entry
Digit “3”
Activate the DTMF
Autodialer Function.
Display the Battery
Type and Battery
Voltage.
]
ONT
Frequency Entry
Digit “6”
Select the direction of
the uplink frequency
shift (either “–,” “+” or
simplex) during
repeater operation.
Display the operating
time and total transmit
time since you most
recently turned the
transceiver on.
]
ALT
[MR(
SKP)SC
Switch to the Memory
mode.
Designate a Memory
Channel to be
“skipped” during
scanning.
Initiate Memory
Channel scanning.
][3(DT)
[0(SQ)WX][6(RP)
Frequency Entry
Digit “0”
Adjust the Squelch
threshold level.
Recall the “Weather”
broadcast channel.
[
VFO(DW)SC
][9(BP)
Press Key
Press [F/W] +
Press and hold
Key
Press Key
Press [F/W] +
Press and hold
Key
[
]
PTT
Transmit.
Temporary High Power
Transmit.
Transmit.
[
]
MON
USA version:
Disable the Noise and
Tone Squelch.
European version:
Activate the T. CALL.
Reverse the transmit
and receive frequen-
cies while working
through a repeater.
None
[
]
LAMP
Frequency Entry
Digit “9”
Turn the keypad’s
Beeper on or off.
Display the current
Altitude.
Select the VFO mode.
Activate the Dual
Watch feature.
Activate VFO
scanning.
Press Key
Press [F/W] +
Press and hold
Key
Illuminate the LCD and
keypad for 5 seconds.
Activate the Spectrum
Analyzer
(Spectra-Scope
feature.
Illuminate the LCD and
keypad until you press
the key again.
TM
)
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 5
Page 8
Accessories & Options
ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED WITH THE VX-5R
FNB-80LI Battery Pack (7.2V/1300mAh)
NC-72B/C/F/U Battery Chareger
Belt Clip
Hand Strap
Antenna
Operating Manual
Warranty Card
AVAILABLE OPTIONS FOR YOUR VX-5R
CSC-73 Soft Case
CD-15 Rapid Charger (requires NC-72B/C/F/U)
FBA-23 2 x “AA” Cell Battery Case (batteries not supplied)
FNB-80LI Battery Pack
E-DC-5B DC Cable w/Noise Filter
NC-72B/C/F/U Battery Chareger
E-DC-6 DC Cable; plug and wire only
CT-44 Microphone Adapter
MH-37A4B Earpiece/Microphone
MH-34B4B Speaker/Microphone
VC-25 VOX Headset
CN-3 BNC-to-SMA Adapter
SU-1 Barometric Pressure Sensor Unit
CT-27 Cloning Cable
Availability of accessories may vary. Some accessories are supplied as standard per local
requirements, while others may be unavailable in some regions. Consult your Yaesu Dealer for
details regarding these and any newly-available options. Connection of any non-Yaesu-approved accessory, should it cause damage, may void the Limited Warranty on this apparatus.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL6
Page 9
Installation of Accessories
ANTENNA INSTALLATION
The supplied antenna provides good results over the entire frequency range of the transceiver. However, for enhanced base station medium-wave and shortwave reception, you
may wish to connect an external (outside) antenna.
The supplied antenna includes a “Base” and an “Extender Element.” The Extender Element should be used below 54 MHz, and its installation will still allow satisfactory 144/
430 MHz operation.
To install the supplied antenna
Hold the bottom end of the antenna, then screw it onto the mating connector on the transceiver until it is snug. Do not overtighten by use of extreme force.
When operating the VX-5R on frequencies lower than the 50
MHz band, disconnect the antenna cap from the base antenna
then screw the Extender Element onto the Base Antenna.
Notes:
Never transmit without having an antenna connected.
When installing the supplied antenna, never hold the upper
part of the antenna while screwing it onto the mating connector on the transceiver.
If using an external antenna for transmission, ensure that
the SWR presented to the transceiver is 1.5:1 or lower.
Take care not lose the antenna cap when removing it from
the Base Antenna.
BELT CLIP INSTALLATION
To install the Belt Clip, first place the loop of the Hand Strap into the groove at the top of
the Belt Clip, and run the loop of the strap around the round mounting ridge for the Belt
Clip. Now insert the mounting screw through the belt clip, and affix it snugly to the mounting hole on the back of the transceiver, being careful not to allow the Hand Strap to become
mis-aligned.
Do not install the supplied Belt Clip
Mounting Screws if you are not installing the Belt Clip! Also, do not use
an improper screw for mounting the
Belt Clip! An improper screw may
cause a “short circuit” to the internal
circuitry, causing serious damage!
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 7
Page 10
Installation of Accessories
INSTALLATION OF FNB-80LI BATTERY PACK
The FNB-80LI is a high-performance Lithium-Ion battery providing high capacity in a
very compact package. Under normal use, the FNB-80LI may be used for approximately
300 charge cycles, after which operating time may be expected to decrease. If you have an
old battery pack which is displaying capacity which has become diminished, you should
replace the pack with a new one.
Push the bottom latch slightly to the “OPEN” position.
Install the FNB-80LI as shown in the illustration.
Re-lock the bottom plate by carefully pressing the hinged latch cover back into its
normal operating position.
If the battery has never been used, or its charge is
depleted, it may be charged by connecting the NC-
72B/C/F/U Battery Charger, as shown in the illustration, to the EXT DC jack. If only 12 ~ 16 Volt
DC power is available, the optional E-DC-5B or
E-DC-6 DC Adapter (with its cigarette lighter plug)
may also be used for charging the battery, as shown
in the illustration.
The display will indicate “now charging” while the battery is being charged. When charging
is finished, the display will change to indicate “complete.”
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL8
Page 11
Installation of Accessories
INSTALLATION OF FBA-23 (OPTION
The optional FBA-23 Battery Case allows receive monitoring using two “AA” size Alkaline batteries. Alkaline batteries can also be used for transmission in an emergency, but
power output will only be 300 mW, and battery life will be shortened dramatically.
)
LKALINE BATTERY CASE
A
To Install Alkaline Batteries into the FBA-23
Slide the batteries into the FBA-23 as shown in the illustration,
with the Negative [–] side of the batteries touching the spring
connections inside the FBA-23.
Unlock the bottom plate by pushing the latch in the “OPEN”
direction.
Install the FBA-23 as shown in the illustration, with the [+]
side facing the bottom of the transceiver.
Re-lock the bottom plate by carefully pressing the latch cover
back into its normal operating position.
The FBA-23 does not provide connections for charging, since Alkaline cells cannot be recharged. Therefore, the NC-72B/C/F/U, E-DC-5B, or E-DC-6 may safely be connected
to the EXT DC jack when the FBA-23 is installed.
Notes:
The FBA-23 is designed for use only with AA-type Alkaline cells.
If you do not use the VX-5R for a long time, remove the Alkaline batteries from the
FBA-23, as battery leakage could cause damage to the FBA-23 and/or the transceiver.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 9
Page 12
Installation of Accessories
BATTERY LIFE INFORMATION
When the battery charge is almost depleted, a “Low Voltage” indicator will appear on the
display. When this icon appears, it is recommended that you charge the battery soon.
Operating Band
50 MHz
144 MHz
430 MHz
Other Bands
Battery Life
80
FNB-58LI FBA-23
(1)
6.5 ho urs 7.5 ho urs
(1)
6 hours 7 ho urs
(1)
5.5 ho urs 6 ho urs
(2)
15 ho urs 9 ho urs
(Approx.)
Low Voltage Indicator
: Battery is nearing depletion.
Prepare to replace the battery.
Prepare to charge the battery.
: Battery voltage is critically low.
Prepare to replace the battery.
Prepare to charge the battery.
(1) TX 6 sec., RX 6 sec. and Squelched 48 sec.
(2) Continuous signal reception
The current battery voltage can be displayed manually on the LCD, by following the instructions on page 35.
Battery capacity may be reduced during extremely cold weather operation. Keeping the
radio inside your parka may help preserve the full charge capacity.
AC OPERATION USING NC-72B/C/F/U (RECEIVING ONLY
)
The VX-5R may be operated from your house current by use of the supplied NC-72B/C/F/
U Battery Charger.
To use the NC-72B/C/F/U, turn the transceiver off, then plug the miniature connector of
the Battery Charger into the EXT DC jack on the side of the radio. Now plug the Battery
Charger into the wall outlet. You may now turn on the transceiver.
Important Notice
When using an external DC power source supplied via the E-DC-5B or E-DC-6, if
power is momentarily interrupted a safety feature will be activated inside the VX-
5R, so as to minimize the possibility of damage to the microprocessor. Such a
power interruption might occur when a vehicle's ignition is turned on or off, or if the
DC power cable is unplugged, or if the DC power supply is turned off.
In the event of such a momentary power interruption, the VX-5R will return to the
original VFO or Memory Channel to which the VX-5R was tuned when it was first
turned on during this operating session. For example, if you started operation on
Memory Channel 2, at 145.400 MHz, but DC power input is interrupted later while
you are on Memory Channel 25, The VX-5R will revert to Memory Channel 2
(145.400 MHz) when the power situation stabilizes.
This is a (normal) protection feature, and you may quickly return to Menory Channel 25 by pressing .
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL10
Page 13
Interface of Packet TNCs
The VX-5R may be used for Packet operation, using the optional CT-44 microphone adapter
(available from your Yaesu dealer) for easy interconnection to commonly-available connectors wired to your TNC. You may also build your own cable using a four-conductor
miniature phone plug, per the diagram below.
The audio level from the receiver to the TNC may be adjusted by using the VOLUME
knob, as with voice operation. The input level to the VX-5R from the TNC should be
adjusted at the TNC side; the optimum input voltage is approximately 5 mV at 2 kΩ.
Be sure to turn the transceiver and TNC off before connecting the cables, so as to prevent
voltage spikes from possibly damaging your transceiver.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 11
Page 14
Operation
Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the many
features of the VX-5R. I know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I encour-
age you to read the “Operation” section of this manual as thoroughly as
possible, so you’ll get the most out of this fantastic new transceiver. Now. . .let’s get
operating!
SWITCHING POWER ON AND OFF
Be sure the battery pack is installed, and that the battery is fully charged. Connect the
antenna to the top panel ANTENNA jack.
Press and hold in the orange PWR switch (on the left side of the front panel) for one
second. Two beeps will be heard when the switch has been held long enough, and the
frequency display will soon appear. After another two seconds, the receive-mode Battery Saver function will become active, unless you have disabled it (see page 32).
To turn the VX-5R off, press and hold in the PWR switch again for one second.
If you don’t hear the two “Beep” tones when the radio comes on, the Beeper
may have been disabled via the Menu system. See page 35, which tells you
how to reactivate the Beeper.
ADJUSTING THE VOLUME LEVEL
Rotate the VOLUME control (immediately to the right of the Antenna) to set the desired
audio level. Clockwise rotation increases the volume level.
SQUELCH ADJUSTMENT
The VX-5R’s Squelch system allows you to mute the background noise when no signal is
being received. Not only does the Squelch system make “standby” operation more pleasant, it also significantly reduces battery current consumption.
The Squelch system may be adjusted independently for the FM and Wide-FM (FM Broadcast) modes.
Press the [F/W] key momentarily, then immediately press [0(SQ)WX]. This provides
a “short-cut” to Menu Item #01 (SQUELCH).
Now rotate the DIAL knob clockwise; you will notice that the noise will disappear
after a few “clicks” of the DIAL. When you find the point where the background noise
is just silenced, (typically at a setting of about “3” or “4” on the scale), leave the DIAL
at that setting; this is point of maximum sensitivity to weak signals.
When you are satisfied with the Squelch threshold setting, press the PTT key momen-
tarily to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
You may also adjust the Squelch setting by using the “Set” (Menu) mode. See page 61
for details.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL12
Page 15
Operation
If you’re operating in an area of high RF pollution, you may need to consider “Tone Squelch” operation using the built-in CTCSS Decoder. This fea-
ture will keep your radio quiet until a call is received from a station sending
a carrier which contains a matching (subaudible) CTCSS tone. Or if your friends have
radios equipped with DCS (Digital Coded Squelch) like your VX-5R has, try using that
mode for silent monitoring of busy channels.
SELECTING THE OPERATING BAND
The VX-5R covers an incredibly wide frequency range, over which a number of different
operating modes are used. Therefore, the VX-5R’s frequency coverage has been divided
into different operating bands, each of which has its own pre-set channel steps and operating modes. You can change the channel steps and operating modes later, if you like (see
pages 22 and 23).
To Change Operating Bands
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key repetitively.
You will see the LCD indication change as
you press the [BAND(SET)AR] key.
The VX-5R uses a dual VFO system (ex-
plained in detail on page 20). To switch from
the “Main” VFO (VFO-A) to the “Sub”
(VFO-B) VFO instantly, press the
[
VFO(DW)SC] key momentarily. Pressing
the [VFO(DW)SC] key once more will return the VX-5R to VFO-A.
Once you have selected the desired band, you
may initiate manual tuning (or scanning) per
the discussions below.
BAND Frequency Range
BC Band 0.5 ~ 1.8 MH z
SW Ban d 1 .8 ~ 16 MH z
FM BC 59 ~ 1 08 M Hz
TV Ban d 174 ~ 222 & 4 70 ~ 7 29 MH z
50 MHz Ham 48 ~ 59 MHz
14 4 MHz Ham 1 37 ~ 1 74 M Hz
43 0 MHz Ham 4 20 ~ 4 70 M Hz
AIR Ban d 1 08 ~ 1 3 7 MH z
Act io n Ba nd 1 2 22 ~ 4 20 MH z
Act io n Ba nd 2 8 00 ~ 9 99 MH z
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 13
Page 16
Operation
FREQUENCY NAVIGATION
The VX-5R will initially be operating in the “VFO” mode, as just described. This is a
channelized system which allows free tuning throughout the currently-selected operating
band. You can confirm that you are in the VFO mode by looking in the upper-left-hand
corner of the display; if you see “Va” (which stands for “VFO-A”) and/or “Vb” (VFO-B)
along the left edge of the LCD, then you are in the VFO mode.
Three basic frequency navigation methods are available on the VX-5R:
1. Tuning Dial
Rotation of the DIAL allows tuning in the pre-programmed steps established for the current operating band. Clockwise rotation of the DIAL causes the VX-5R to be tuned toward
a higher frequency, while counter-clockwise rotation will lower the operating frequency.
If you press the [F/W] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL, frequency steps of 1 MHz
will be selected. This feature is extremely useful for making rapid frequency excursions
over the wide tuning range of the VX-5R.
2. Direct Keypad Frequency Entry
The desired operating frequency may be entered directly from the keypad.
The operating mode will automatically be set once the new frequency is entered via the
keypad.
To enter a frequency from the keypad, just press the numbered digits on the keypad in the
proper sequence. There is no “decimal point” key on the VX-5R, so if the frequency is
below 100 MHz (e.g. 15.150 MHz), any required leading zeroes must be entered.
Examples:
To enter 146.520 MHz, press
To enter 15.255 MHz, press
To enter 1.250 MHz (1250 kHz), press
To enter 0.950 MHz (950 kHz), press
3. Scanning
From the VFO mode, press and hold in the [VFO(DW)SC] key for one second.
The VX-5R will begin scanning toward a higher frequency, and will stop when it receives
a signal strong enough to break through the Squelch threshold. The VX-5R will then hold
on that frequency according to the setting of the “RESUME” mode (Menu #12). See page
63 for details.
If you wish to reverse the direction of the scan (i.e. toward a lower frequency, instead of a
higher frequency), just rotate the DIAL one click in the counter-clockwise direction while
the VX-5R is scanning. The scanning direction will be reversed. To revert to scanning
toward a higher frequency once more, rotate the DIAL one click clockwise.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL14
Page 17
Operation
TRANSMISSION
Once you have set up an appropriate frequency inside one of the three Amateur bands on
which the VX-5R can transmit (50 MHz, 144 MHz or 430 MHz), you’re ready to transmit.
These are the most basic steps; more advanced aspects of transmitter operation will be
discussed later.
To transmit, press the PTT switch, and speak into the front panel microphone (located
in the upper right-hand corner of the speaker grille) in a normal voice level. The “TX”
LED on top of the radio will glow Red during transmission.
To return to the receive mode, release the PTT switch.
During transmission, the relative power level will be indicated on the LCD. Full power
(5 Watts) is indicated by eight arrows below the frequency display. The three “Low
Power” levels (L1, L2, and L3) are indicated by two, four, or six arrows, respectively.
Additionally, the “L” icon will appear at the bottom of the display, followed by one,
two, or three bars.
If you're just talking to friends in the immediate area, you'll get much longer
battery life by switching to Low Power operation. To do this, just press the
[
TX PO(LOCK)] key so that the “L” icon appears at the bottom of the dis-
play. And don't forget, always have an antenna connected when you transmit.
Transmission is not possible on any operating bands other than the 50 MHz, 144 MHz,
and 430 MHz bands.
AM BROADCAST RECEPTION
The VX-5R includes provision for reception of AM broadcasts, either on the standard
medium-wave (MW) broadcast band, or on the shortwave bands up to 16 MHz.
Press the [VFO(DW)SC] key repetitively until you see a frequency in the frequency
range desired. The MW coverage is 0.5 MHz to 1.8 MHz, while the shortwave broadcast coverage is 1.8 MHz to 16 MHz. In either case, the operating mode (displayed on
the right edge of the LCD) should be shown as being “AM.”
Be sure that the VX-5R is set to the VFO mode (either “Va” or “Vb” will be visible at
the left side of the display).
Rotate the DIAL to tune across the broadcast band.
You may also use the keypad to enter frequencies directly. This method will be quicker
for changing from the 49-meter broadcast band to the 31-meter band, for example.
If the operating mode is not correct, you may need to adjust the setting of
Menu #36 (RX MODE). See page 67 for details.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 15
Page 18
Operation
AM AIRCRAFT RECEPTION
Reception of AM signals in the aeronautical band (108-137 MHz) is similar to that described in the previous section.
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key repetitively until you see a frequency in the aeronau-
tical band.
Be sure that the VX-5R is set to the VFO mode (either “Va” or “Vb” will be visible at
the left side of the display), and that “AM” is shown as the operating mode.
Rotate the DIAL to tune across the aeronautical band.
You may also use the keypad to enter frequencies directly. Remember that frequencies
quoted by aircraft operators may be abbreviated, and that the “5” at the end of a frequency may be dropped. Since aeronautical channels are assigned in 25-kHz steps,
therefore, a frequency announced as “thirty-two, forty-two” corresponds to an operating frequency of 132.425 MHz.
FM BROADCAST/TV AUDIO RECEPTION
The VX-5R also includes provision for reception in the FM broadcast band, utilizing a
wide-bandwidth filter which provides excellent fidelity.
To Activate FM Broadcast Reception
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key repetitively until a frequency in the FM broadcast
band appears on the display. The total frequency range included in the “FM” band is
59-108 MHz.
Be sure you are in the VFO mode (press the [VFO(DW)SC] key if not), and that W-
FM (Wide-bandwidth FM) is indicated as the operating mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired station. The default synthesizer steps for the W-
FM mode are 100 kHz/step.
To Activate VHF or UHF TV Audio Reception
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key repetitively until a frequency in the VHF or UHF TV
bands appears on the LCD.
Be sure you are in the VFO mode (press the [VFO(DW)SC] key if not).
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired station.
Remember that the Wide-FM Squelch setting may be made independently
from the Narrow-FM setting, using Menu #02. See page 61.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL16
Page 19
Operation
WEATHER BROADCAST RECEPTION
The VX-5R includes a unique feature which allows reception of weather broadcasts in the
160-MHz frequency range. Ten standard Weather Broadcast channels are pre-loaded into
a special memory bank.
To listen to a Weather Broadcast Channel:
Press and hold in the [0(SQL)WX] key for one second to recall the Weather Broadcast
channels.
Turn the DIAL knob to select the desired Weather Broadcast channel.
If you wish to check the other channels for activity by scanning, just press and hold the
[MR(
SKP)SC] key for one second.
To exit to normal operation, again press and hold in the [0(SQL)WX] key for one
second. Operation will return to the VFO or Memory channel you were operating on
before you began Weather Broadcast operation.
You can also append an alpha-numeric “Tag” (label) to a Weather Broadcast
channel. See page 44.
Chan nel Frequency Channel F requency Ch an ne l F requency Ch an ne l Frequency
WX 1 1 62.55 0 M Hz WX 4 1 62. 42 5 MH z WX 7 162. 52 5 MH z WX 1 0 163. 27 5 MH z
WX 2 1 62.40 0 MHz WX 5 162. 45 0 MHz WX 8 1 61.65 0 MHz
WX 3 1 62.47 5 MHz WX 6 162. 50 0 MHz WX 9 1 61.77 5 MHz
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 17
Page 20
Operation
KEYPAD/LCD ILLUMINATION
Your VX-5R includes a reddish illumination lamp which aids in nighttime operation. The
red illumination yields clear viewing of the display in a dark environment, with minimal
degradation of your night vision. Three options for activating the lamp are provided:
KEY Mode: Pressing any key causes the lamp to provide illumination for 5 sec-
onds, after which the lamp will automatically shut off.
5 SEC Mode: Pressing the LAMP switch momentarily causes the lamp to provide
illumination for 5 seconds, after which the lamp will automatically
shut off.
TOGGLE Mode: Pressing the LAMP switch momentarily “Toggles” the lamp on and
off. The lamp will stay illuminated until you press the LAMP switch
once more.
Here is the procedure for setting up the Lamp mode:
You first need to enter the “Set” (menu) mode. Press the [F/W] key, then immediately
press the [BAND(SET)AR] key (just below the [F/W] key) to activate the Set mode.
Now rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #25 (“LAMP MODE•E.
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable modification of the current setting.
Next, rotate the DIAL to select one of the three modes described above.
When you have made your choice, press the PTT key to save the new setting for Menu
Item #25. The transceiver will now return to normal operation.
The 5 SEC mode provides the greatest battery conservation, as it allows activation of the lamp only when you press the LAMP switch.
If you press and hold in the LAMP key for one second, the lamp will remain
illuminated until you press the LAMP switch once more (no time limit).
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL18
Page 21
NOTE
Operation
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 19
Page 22
Advanced Operation
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of VX-5R operation, let’s learn more
about some of the really neat features. . .
SETTING THE FREQUENCY DISPLAY IMAGE SIZE
VFO Mode
The VX-5R’s display may be configured so that only VFOA is displayed, or (alternatively) it may be set for display
(in smaller characters) of the Main (A or B) and Sub VFOs.
As a third option, The Main VFO (only) may be displayed
in small characters.
If the display currently shows the operating frequency in
large characters (see the illustration), press and hold in
the [1(TN)FRQ] key for one second to change the display to indication of both the Main and Sub VFOs. Press
and hold in the [1(TN)FRQ] key for one second again to
make the Sub VFO frequency disappear.
If the display currently shows the operating frequency in
small characters, (displaying one or both VFO frequencies), press and hold in the [4(MG)DSP] key for one second to cause the display to double the size of the Main
VFO frequency. The Sub VFO frequency will disappear.
If you again press and hold in the [4(MG)DSP] key for one second, the LCD will revert to
small-character display of the operating frequency; one or both VFOs will be shown, depending on how the display was set up per the preceding paragraph.
Memory Mode
When operating in the Memory mode (see page 42), pressing the [4(MG)DSP] key for one second causes the LCD
to “toggle” between display of the current memory’s frequency only (large characters) or the current memory’s
frequency on the top line and the memory channel number on the second line.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL20
Page 23
Advanced Operation
VFO SPLIT MODE
For working on repeaters with odd splits, or communicating with astronauts on orbiting
space vehicles, it may be necessary to use non-standard splits between the receive and
transmit frequency. If the application is infrequent enough not to warrant the dedication of
a memory channel for this purpose, the “VFO Split” mode may be used. Here is the procedure:
Set the VX-5R for display of both the Main and Sub VFOs, per the preceding section.
Press the VFO key, as needed, to select VFO-A. Set VFO-A for the receiving fre-
quency (for example, 437.950 MHz).
Now press the [VFO(DW)SC] key, and set VFO-B for the desired transmit frequency
(e.g. 435.750 MHz).
Press the [VFO(DW)SC] key once more to re-establish VFO-A as the “Main” (re-
ceive) VFO.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #09 (“VFO SPLIT”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable activation of the VFO Split feature.
Rotate the DIAL one click to change the setting of this Menu item to ON. Press the
PTT key once to exit to Split VFO operation. You will notice the “[+][–]” indicator
on the display, which signifies Split operation.
You will now be operating in a Split mode. When you press the PTT key to transmit,
you will observe that VFO-A and VFO-B will reverse positions. If you need to modify
the VFO-B (transmit) frequency (for Doppler Shift correction, etc.), just press the
[
VFO(DW)SC] key, then make the necessary change, then press [VFO(DW)SC] key
once more to restore VFO-A to the “receive VFO” position.
When you have finished with Split operation, re-enter the Set mode, and set Menu #09
to OFF.
A split frequency pair set up via the VFO Split feature cannot be stored di-
rectly into memory. You can, however, store odd frequency pairs using a dif-
ferent (slightly simpler) procedure. See page 42.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 21
Page 24
Advanced Operation
VFO LINKING
For split operation on the Amateur bands, the VFO Link feature may be useful.
Set up VFO Split operation, as just described.
Set VFO-A and VFO-B to the same Amateur band (e.g. 430 MHz).
While in the Set mode (used to set up Split operation), rotate the DIAL to select Menu
#5 (“VFO”). This Menu item determines whether VFO tuning will limited to the current band “BAND” or allowed to roam freely band-to-band “ALL”.
If the current setting is “ALL”, press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable modification
of the “VFO” Menu item, then rotate the DIAL to set this Menu selection to “BAND.”
Now press [BAND(SET)AR] once more.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #10 (“VFO LINK”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable activation of the VFO Link feature.
Rotate the DIAL to set this Menu selection to ON.
Press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to Linked/Split VFO operation.
As you rotate the DIAL, you will observe that both VFO frequencies are changing together.
When you are done with this operating mode, re-enter the Set mode, and set Menu #10 to OFF.
The VFO Link feature requires that (1) VFO-A and VFO-B be set to same
band, (2) Menu #5 (“VFO”) must be set to “BAND.” In other words, the
VFO Link feature cannot activated if VFO-A and VFO-B are not set to the
same band, or if Menu #5 (“VFO”) is set to “ALL.”
CHANGING THE CHANNEL STEPS
The VX-5R’s synthesizer provides the option of utilizing channels steps of 5/9/10/12.5/15/
20/25/50/100 kHz per step, any number of which may be important to your operating
requirements. The VX-5R is set up at the factory with different default steps on each operating band which probably are satisfactory for most operation. However, if you need to
change the channel step increments, the procedure to do so is very easy.
Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [7(ST)TMP] key. This provides a
short-cut to Menu Item #11 (“VFO STEP”).
Rotate the DIAL to select the new channel step size.
Press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
5 kHz steps are not available on the 50 MHz, “ACT 1,” and “ACT 2” bands;
Use 25 kHz steps to load the 52.525 MHz Simplex Channel into a memory
register, then switch to 10 kHz steps for tuning or scanning of other 6-meter
frequencies. 9 kHz steps are not available, on the “USA” version, on any band.
You may also use the “Set” mode (Menu #11) to change the channel steps. See page 63
for details.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL22
Page 25
Advanced Operation
CHANGING THE OPERATING MODE
The VX-5R provides for automatic mode changing when the radio is tuned to different
operating frequencies. However, should an unusual operating situation arise in which you
need to change between the available operating modes (FM-Narrow, FM-Wide, and AM),
here is the procedure for doing so:
Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to activate the
Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #36 (“RX MODE”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable modification of the current setting.
Now rotate the DIAL to select a new operating mode. The available selections are:
AUTO : Automatic mode setting per default values.
N-FM: Narrow-bandwidth FM (used for voice communication)
W-FM: Wide-bandwidth FM (used for high-fidelity broadcasting)
AM: Amplitude Modulation
Press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
Unless you have a compelling reason to do so, leave the Automatic Mode
Selection feature on so as to save time and trouble when changing bands. If
you make a mode change for a particular channel or station, you can always
store that one channel into memory, as the mode setting will be memorized along with
the frequency information.
De fa ult m od es
0 .5-1.8 M Hz (BC B and ) AM 137-17 4 MH z (2m Ham) N-FM 335-420 M Hz (Action Ba nd 1) N-FM
1.8-1 6 MHz (SW Band ) AM 174-22 2 MHz (VH F-TV) W-FM 420-47 0 MHz (70cm Ham) N-FM
48-5 9 MHz (6m Ham) N-FM 222-25 0 MHz (A ction Band1 ) AM 47 0-72 9 MHz ( UHF-TV) W-FM
5 9-108 M Hz ( FM BC) W-FM 25 0-25 5 MHz (Action Ba nd1 ) N-FM 80 0-99 9 MHz (Action Ba nd 2 ) N -FM
108-13 7 MH z (A ir B and) AM 25 5-33 5 MHz (Action Ba nd1 ) AM
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 23
Page 26
Advanced Operation
REPEATER OPERATION
Repeater stations, usually located on mountaintops or other high locations, provide a dramatic extension of the communication range for low-powered hand-held or mobile transceivers. The VX-5R includes a number of features which make repeater operation simple
and enjoyable.
Repeater Shifts
Your VX-5R has been configured, at the factory, for the repeater shifts customary in your
country. For the 50 MHz band, this usually will be 1 MHz, while the 144 MHz shift will be
600 kHz; on 70 cm, the shift may be 1.6 MHz, 7.6 MHz, or 5 MHz (USA version).
Depending on the part of the band in which you are operating, the repeater shift may be
either downward (“–”) or upward (“+”), and one of these icons will appear at the bottom
of the LCD when repeater shifts have been enabled.
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS)
The VX-5R provides a convenient Automatic Repeater Shift feature, which causes the
appropriate repeater shift to be automatically applied whenever you tune into the designated repeater sub-bands in your country. These sub-bands are shown below.
If the ARS feature does not appear to be working, you may have accidentally disabled it.
To re-enable ARS:
Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set
mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #06 (“ARS”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable modification of the current setting.
Now rotate the DIAL to select “ON” (to enable Automatic Repeater Shift).
Press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL24
Page 27
Advanced Operation
REPEATER OPERATION
Manual Repeater Shift Activation
If the ARS feature has been disabled, or if you need to set a repeater shift other than that
established by the ARS, you may set the direction of the repeater shift manually.
To do this, press the [F/W] key, then press the [6(RP)ONT] key. This provides a “shortcut”
to Menu #07 (“RPT SHIFT”). Rotate the DIAL, and you will see that the “–” or “+” icon
appears at the bottom of the LCD (when no icon is present, “Simplex” operation - transmit
and receive on the same frequency - has been selected, and the LCD will indicate “SIMP”
in this case).
When the desired shift direction has been selected, press the PTT key momentarily to save
your new setting and exit.
Changing the Default Repeater Shifts
If you travel to a different country, you may need to change the default repeater shift so as
to ensure compatibility with local operating requirements.
To do this, follow the procedure below:
Set the VX-5R to the band on which you wish to change the default repeater shift.
Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set
mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #08 (“SHIFT”).
The current shift will now be displayed on the LCD. Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key
then rotate the DIAL to select the new repeater shift magnitude.
Press the PTT key momentarily to save the new setting and exit.
If you just have one “odd” split that you need to program, don’t change the
“default” repeated shifts using Menu Item #08! Enter the transmit and re-
ceive frequencies separately, as shown on page 42.
When setting a large repeater shift (e.g. 5.0 MHz for 440 MHz), remember that you can
tune in 1 MHz steps by pressing [F/W], then rotating the DIAL.
Checking the Repeater Uplink (Input) Frequency
It often is helpful to be able to check the uplink (input) frequency of a repeater, to see if the
calling station is within direct (“Simplex”) range.
To do this, press the [F/W] key then MONI key. Alternatively, if Menu Item #24 (“HOME/
REV”) has been set to “REV”, you may just press the [HM/RV(EMG)] key momentarily. To
return to the normal uplink/downlink frequency relationship, repeat this step.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 25
Page 28
Advanced Operation
CTCSS OPERATION
Many repeater systems require that a very-low-frequency audio tone be superimposed on
your FM carrier in order to activate the repeater. This helps prevent false activation of the
repeater by radar or spurious signals from other transmitters. This tone system, called
“CTCSS” (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System), is included in your VX-5R, and is
very easy to activate.
CTCSS setup involves two actions: setting the Tone Frequency and then setting of the Tone Mode. These actions are set up by using the [1(TN)FRQ
and [2(CD)TAG] keys, or Menu Items #29 and #30.
Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [1(TN)FRQ] key. This provides a
“short-cut” to Menu #29 (“SQL TYPE”).
Rotate the DIAL so that “TONE” appears on the display; this activates the CTCSS
Encoder, which allows repeater access.
You may notice an additional “DCS” icon appearing while you rotate
the DIAL in this step. We’ll discuss the Digital Code Squelch system shortly.
Rotation of the DIAL in step above will occasionally cause “SQL” to appear adja-
cent to the “TONE” icon. When “TONE SQL” appears, this means that the Tone
SQueLch system is active, which mutes your VX-5R’s receiver until it receives a call
from another radio sending out a matching CTCSS tone. This can help keep your radio
quiet until a specific call is received, which may be helpful while operating in congested areas.
When you have made your selection of the CTCSS tone mode, press the
[
BAND(SET)AR] key.
Now rotate the DIAL one click clockwise to select Menu #30 (“TONE SET”). This
Menu selection allows setting of the CTCSS tone frequency to be used.
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of the CTCSS frequency.
Rotate the DIAL until the display indicates the Tone Frequency you need to be using
(ask the repeater owner/operator if you don’t know the tone frequency).
Press the [2(CD)TAG] key to save the new settings and exit to normal operation.
]
Some repeaters may or may not re-transmit a CTCSS tone - some systems just
use CTCSS to control access to the repeater, but don’t pass it along when transmitting. If the BUSY LED
glows green, but the VX-5R is not passing
audio, repeat steps through above,
but rotate the DIAL so that “SQL” disappears - this will allow you to hear all traffic on the channel being received.
CTCSS T
67.0 6 9.3 7 1.9 74.4 77.0 7 9.7 82.5 85.4
88.5 9 1.5 9 4.8 97.4 100.0 103.5 107.2 110.9
114.8 118. 8 123. 0 127.3 13 1.8 136. 5 141.3 146. 2
15 1.4 156. 7 16 2.2 16 7. 9 17 3.8 17 9. 9 18 6.2 19 2. 8
20 3.5 21 0. 7 218. 1 22 5. 7 23 3.6 24 1. 8 25 0.3 -
ON E FREQUENCY
(Hz)
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL26
Page 29
Advanced Operation
DCS OPERATION
Another form of tone access control is Digital Code Squelch, or DCS. It is a newer, more
advanced tone system which generally provides more immunity from false paging than
does CTCSS. The DCS Encoder/Decoder is built into your VX-5R, and operation is very
similar to that just described for CTCSS. Your repeater system may be configured for
DCS; if not, it is frequently quite useful in Simplex operation if your friend(s) use transceivers equipped with this advanced feature.
Just as in CTCSS operation, DCS requires that you set the Tone Mode to
DCS and that you select a tone code.
Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [1(TN)FRQ] key. This provides a
“short-cut” to Menu #29 (“SQL TYPE”).
Rotate the DIAL until “DCS” appears in the upper right-hand area of the LCD; this
activates the DCS Encoder/Decoder.
Now press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, and rotate the DIAL to select Menu #31 (“DCS
”).
SET
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of the DCS Code.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired DCS Code (a three-digit number). Ask the re-
peater owner/operator if you don’t know DCS Code; if you are working simplex, just
set up the DCS Code to be the same as that used by your friend(s).
When you have made your selection, press the [2(CD)TAG] key to save the new set-
tings and exit to normal operation.
Remember that the DCS is an Encode/Decode system, so your receiver will
remain muted until a matching DCS code is received on an incoming trans-
mission. Switch the DCS off when you’re just tuning around the band!
DCS C
ODE
023 025 026 031 032 036 043 047 051 053 054 065 071 072 073 074 114 115 116 122 125
131132134143145152155156162165172174205212223225226243244245246
251 252 255 261 263 265 266 271 274 306 311 315 325 331 332 343 346 351 356 364 365
37 1 411 41 2 41 3 42 3 43 1 43 2 44 5 44 6 45 2 45 4 45 5 46 2 46 4 46 5 46 6 50 3 50 6 51 6 52 3 52 6
532546565606612624627631632654662664703712723731732734743754
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 27
Page 30
Advanced Operation
TONE SEARCH SCANNING
In operating situations where you don’t know the CTCSS or DCS tone being used by
another station or stations, you can command the radio to listen to the incoming signal and
scan in search of the tone being used. Two things must be remembered in this regard:
You must be sure that your repeater uses the same tone type (CTCSS vs. DCS).
Some repeaters do not pass the CTCSS tone; you may have to listen to the station(s)
transmitting on the repeater uplink (input) frequency in order to allow Tone Search
Scanning to work.
To scan for the tone in use:
Set the radio up for either CTCSS or DCS Decoder operation (see the previous discus-
sion). In the case of CTCSS, “T SQ” will appear on the display; in the case of DCS,
“DCS” will appear on the display.
Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [2(CD)TAG] key to select the “TONE
” Menu item (when TONE SQL is selected) or “DCS SET” (during DCS opera-
SET
tion).
Press and hold in the [VFO(DW)SC] key to start scanning for the incoming CTCSS or
DCS tone/code.
When the radio detects the correct tone or code, it will halt on that tone/code, and
audio will be allowed to pass. Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to lock in that tone/
code, then press PTT to exit to normal operation.
If the Tone Scan feature does not detect a tone or code, it will continue to
scan indefinitely. When this happens, it may be that the other station is not
sending any tone. You can press the PTT switch to halt the scan at any time.
You also can press the MONI key during Tone Scanning to listen to the (muted) signal
from the other station. When you release the MONI key, Tone Scanning will resume
after about a second.
Tone Scanning works either in the VFO or Memory modes.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL28
Page 31
Advanced Operation
CTCSS/DCS BELL OPERATION
During CTCSS Decode or DCS operation, you may set the VX-5R up such that a ringing
“bell” sound alerts you to the fact that a call is coming in. Here is the procedure for activating the Bell will ring in accordance with this programming.
Set the transceiver up for CTCSS Decode (“TONE SQL”) or DCS operation, as de-
scribed previously.
Adjust the operating frequency to the desired channel.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to activate the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #22 (“BELL”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of the Bell ringer.
Rotate the DIAL to set the desired number of rings of the Bell. The available choices
are 1, 3, 5, or 8 rings, REPEAT (continuous ringing), or OFF.
Press the PTT key momentarily to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
When a station calls you whose transceiver is sending a CTCSS tone or DCS code which
matches that set into your Decoder, the Bell will ring in accordance to this programming.
TONE CALLING (1750 HZ
If the repeaters in your country require a 1750-Hz burst tone for access (typically in Europe), you can set the MONI key to serve as a “TONE CALL” switch instead. To change the
configuration of this switch, we again use the Menu to help us.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #23 (“MON/T-CAL”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to select “T-CALL” on the display.
Press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit.
To access a repeater, press and hold in the MONI key for the amount of time specified
by the repeater owner/operator. The transmitter will automatically be activated, and a
1750-Hz audio tone will be superimposed on the carrier. Once access to the repeater
has been gained, you may release the MONI key, and use the PTT key for activating
the transmitter.
)
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 29
Page 32
Advanced Operation
CHANGING THE TRANSMITTER POWER LEVEL
You can select between a total of four transmitter power levels on your VX-5R. The exact
power output will vary somewhat, depending on the voltage supplied to the transceiver.
With the standard FNB-80LI Battery Pack, the power output levels available are:
ICONS
NONE (HIGH) (L3) (L2) (L1)
5 W (50/ 14 5 MH z)
4.5W (430 MHz)
To change the power level:
The default setting for the power output is “High;” in this configuration, the LCD
shows no indication of the power output level. Pressing the [TX PO(LOCK)] key
causes the “Low Power” icon to appear, followed by one, two, or three vertical bars,
indicating power levels “L1,” “L2,” or “L3.”
Pressing the [TX PO(LOCK)] key until the “Low Power” icon disappears will restore
High Power operation.
The VX-5R is smart! You can set up Low power on one band (like UHF),
while leaving VHF on High power, and the radio will remember the different
settings on each band. And when you store memories, you can store High
and Low power settings separately in each memory, so you don’t waste battery power
when using very close-in repeaters!
2.5 W 1 W 0.3 W
CHANGING THE TX DEVIATION LEVEL
In many areas of the world, channel congestion has required that operating channels be
closely spaced. In such operating environments, it often is required that operators use
reduced deviation levels, so as to reduce the potential for interference to users on adjacent
channels. The VX-5R includes a simple method of accomplishing this:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #38 (“HALF DEV”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to change this setting to ON. In this configuration (HALF DEVIA-
TION active), the transmitter’s deviation will be approximately ±2.5 kHz.
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
The “normal” setting for the deviation (when this Menu item is set to OFF) is
±5 kHz.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL30
Page 33
Advanced Operation
TRANSMITTER TIME-OUT TIMER (TOT
The TOT feature provides a safety switch which limits transmission to a pre-programmed
value. This will promote battery conservation by not allowing you to make excessivelylong transmissions, and in the event of a stuck PTT switch (perhaps if the radio or a Speaker/
Mic is wedged between car seats) it can prevent interference to other users as well as
battery depletion. As configured at the factory the TOT feature is set to OFF, and here is the
procedure for activating it:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #26 (“TOT”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to set the Time-Out Timer to the desired “Maximum TX” time
(1 minute, 2.5 minutes, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes).
Once you’ve made the selection you wish to use, press the PTT key to save the new
setting and exit to normal operation.
Since brief transmissions are the mark of a good operator, try setting up your
radio’s TOT feature for a maximum transmission time of 1 minute. This will
significantly improve battery life, too!
BUSY CHANNEL LOCK-OUT (BCLO
The BCLO feature prevents the radio’s transmitter from being activated if a signal strong
enough to break through the “Noise” squelch is present. On a frequency where stations
using different CTCSS or DCS codes may be active, BCLO prevents you from disrupting
their communications accidentally (because your radio may be muted by its own Tone
Decoder). The default setting for the BCLO is OFF, and here is how to change that setting:
)
)
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #27 (“BCLO”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to set the BCLO feature to the “ON” position.
Press the PTT key to save the new setting and resume normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 31
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Advanced Operation
RECEIVE BATTERY SAVER SETUP
An important feature of the VX-5R is its Receive Battery Saver, which “puts the radio to
sleep” for a time interval, periodically “waking it up” to check for activity. If somebody is
talking on the channel, the VX-5R will remain in the “active” mode, then resume its “sleep”
cycles. This feature significantly reduces quiescent battery drain, and you may change the
amount of “sleep” time between activity checks using the Menu System:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #14 (“RX SAVE”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired “sleep” duration. The selections available are
200 ms, 300 ms, 500 ms, 1 second, and 2 seconds, or OFF. The default value is 200
ms.
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
When you are operating on Packet, switch the Receive Battery Saver OFF, as
the sleep cycle may “Collide” with the beginning of an incoming Packet trans-
mission, causing your TNC not to receive the full data burst.
TX BATTERY SAVER
The VX-5R also includes a useful Transmit Battery Saver, which will automatically lower
the power output level when the last signal received was very strong. For example, when
you are in the immediate vicinity of a repeater station, there generally is no reason to use
the full 5 Watts of power output in order to achieve full-quieting access to the repeater.
With the Transmit Battery Saver, the automatic selection of Low Power operation conserves battery drain significantly.
To activate the Transmit Battery Saver:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #15 (“TX SAVE”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL so as to select ON (thus activating the Transmit Battery Saver).
When you have completed your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting
and exit to normal operation.
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Advanced Operation
DISABLING THE BUSY/TX LED
Further battery conservation may be accomplished by disabling the BUSY/TX LED. Use
the following procedure:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #17 (“BUSY LED”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to set this Menu item to OFF (thus disabling the BUSY/TX LED).
Press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
BATTERY UTILIZATION MONITOR
The VX-5R includes a timer circuit which can be used to monitor the elapsed time since your
radio’s battery was most recently charged. This can serve as a handy method of anticipating
when you will need to re-charge the battery.
To monitor the elapsed time since the timer was last reset,
press and hold in the [6(RP)ONT] key. The display will
now indicate the number of hours and minutes of Operating
(Receive + Transmit) time (the display shows Receive Time
[
Rhh:mm
recently turned the transceiver on).
]
and Transmit time
[
Thh:mm
]
since you most
To reset the timer to “Zero” after charging the battery, press and hold in the [F/W] key, then
press the [6(RP)ONT] key, while the operating time is being displayed; the timer will reset to
indicate
[
R00:00
] [
T00:00
]
.
AUTOMATIC POWER-OFF (APO) FEATURE
The APO feature helps conserve battery life by automatically turning the radio off after a
user-defined period of time within which there has been no dial or key activity. The available selections for the time before power-off are 0.5/1/3/5/8 hours, as well as APO Off.
The default condition for the APO is OFF , and here is the procedure for activating it:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [5(AP)ICO] key to enter the Set mode at Menu #16
(“APO”).
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired time period after which the radio will automati-
cally shut down.
Once you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 33
Page 36
Advanced Operation
AUTOMATIC POWER-ON FEATURE
The VX-5R also includes the capability to turn itself on after a programmed time interval.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #40 (“ON TIMER”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable setting or the power-on interval.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired time period after which the radio will automati-
cally turn on.
Note that this is not the time of day when the radio will turn on; it is the
number of hours and minutes until the radio turns on.
Once you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
KEYBOARD LOCKING
In order to prevent accidental frequency change or inadvertent transmission, various aspects of the VX-5R’s keys and switches may be locked out. The possible lockout combinations are:
KEY: Just the front panel keys are locked out
DIAL: Just the top panel DIAL is locked out
KEY + DIAL:Both the DIAL and Keys are locked out
PTT: The PTT switch is locked (TX not possible)
KEY + PTT: Both the keys and PTT switch are locked out
DIAL + PTT: Both the DIAL and PTT switch are locked out
ALL: All of the above are locked out
To lock out some or all of the keys:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #37 (“LOCK MODE”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable setting of the Lock mode (which defines
which keys/functions are to be locked out).
Rotate the DIAL to choose between one of the locking schemes as outlined above.
Once you have made your selection, press the PTT key momentarily to save the new
setting and resume normal operation.
To activate the locking feature, press the [F/W] key, then press the [TX PO(LOCK
key. The “ L” icon will appear on the LCD. To cancel keyboard locking, again press
[
F/W] key, followed by [TX PO(LOCK)] key.
Even when “ALL” keys have been locked out, two keys actually are not locked
out: the [F/W] key and the [TX PO(LOCK)] key remains available, so you
can repeat step above to disable the “Lock” mode.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL34
)]
Page 37
Advanced Operation
DISABLING THE KEYPAD BEEPER
If the keypad’s Beeper creates an inconvenience (particularly when operating in a quiet
room), it may easily be disabled.
Press [F/W] then, press the [9(BP)ALT] key, to enter the Set mode at Menu #20 (“KEY
”).
BEEP
Rotate the DIAL to change the setting from ON to OFF.
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
If you wish to re-enable the Beeper, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL
to select ON in step above.
CHECKING THE BATTERY VOLTAGE
The VX-5R’s microprocessor includes programming which will detect the battery type
and measure the current battery voltage.
To check the battery condition, press and hold in the [3(DT)VLT] key for one second.
The “Sub VFO” display window will now be replaced by an indication of the battery type
and the current DC voltage being supplied.
The displays include:
Lit: FNB-80LI is in use
Dry: FBA-23 is in use
EXT: An external DC source is in use
To return to normal operation, press and hold in the [3(DT)VLT] key for one second. If you
were operating with the Main VFO field enlarged, press [4(MG)DSP] key instead.
TEMPERATURE DISPLAY
You can measure the current temperature inside the transceiver’s case.
To do this, press and hold the [7(ST)TMP] key for one
second. The display will now indicate the current temperature.
To return to normal operation, press and hold the
[7(ST)
TMP] key for one second. If you were operating with the Main VFO field enlarged,
press [4(MG)DSP] key instead.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 35
Page 38
Advanced Operation
DTMF OPERATION
The VX-5R’s 16-button keypad allows easy DTMF dialing for Autopatch or repeater control purposes. Besides numerical digits [0] through [9], the keypad includes the [] and
[#]
digits, plus the [A], [B], [C], and [D] tones often used for repeater control.
Manual DTMF Tone Generation
You can generate DTMF tones during transmission manually.
Press the PTT switch to begin transmission.
While transmitting, press the desired numbers on the keypad.
When you have sent all the digits desired, release the PTT key.
DTMF Autodialer
Eight DTMF Autodial memories are provided, allowing you to store telephone numbers
for autopatch use. You can also store short autopatch access code streams so as to avoid
having to send them manually.
Here is the DTMF Autodial storage procedure:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #32 (“DTMF SET”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to select the DTMF Memory register into which you wish to store
this DTMF string.
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to begin DTMF Memory entry into the selected reg-
ister.
Key in the DTMF digits you wish to store into this register.
Press the PTT switch to save the setting. To store other numbers, repeat this process,
using a different DTMF memory register.
If you decide to over-write a previously-stored DTMF memory, and the new
number is shorter than the original number, press MONI key twice to cancel
out all the obsolete digits after the end of the new telephone number.
To send the telephone number:
Press [F/W], then the [3(DT)VLT] key to activate the DTMF Autodialer function.
Press the PTT switch to begin transmission.
Press the numerical key ([1] through [9]) corresponding to the DTMF memory string
you wish to send. Once the string begins, you may release the PTT key, as the transmitter will be held “on the air” until the DTMF string is completed.
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Page 39
Advanced Operation
EMERGENCY CHANNEL OPERATION
The VX-5R includes an “Emergency” feature which may be useful if you have someone
monitoring on the same frequency as your transceiver’s UHF “Home” channel. See page
43 for details on setting the Home channel.
The “Emergency” feature is activated by pressing the [HM/RV(EMG)] key for one second.
When this is done, the radio (A) is placed on the UHF Amateur band Home channel, (B)
emits a loud “Alarm” sound (the volume is controlled by the VOLUME knob), and (C) if
you press the PTT key, this alarm sound will be transmitted.
Use this feature if you are out for a walk and want a quick way of alerting a family member
as to a dangerous situation. The alarm sound may discourage an attacker and allow you to
escape.
Be sure to arrange with a friend or family member to be monitoring on the
same frequency, as there will be no identification sent via the Emergency
alarm sound. And do not transmit the alarm tone except in a true emergency!
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 37
Page 40
Advanced Operation
ARTS (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM
The ARTS feature uses DCS signaling to inform both parties when you and another ARTSequipped station are within communications range. This may be particularly useful during
Search-and Rescue situations, where is important to stay in contact with other members of
your group.
Both stations must set up their DCS codes to the same code number, then activate their
ARTS feature using the command appropriate for their radio. Alert ringers may be activated, if desired.
Whenever you push the PTT, or every 25 (or 15) seconds
after ARTS is activated, your radio will transmit a signal
which includes a (subaudible) DCS signal for about 1 second. If the other radio is in range, the beeper will sound
(if enabled) and the display will show “IN RANGE” as
opposed to the out of range display “OUT RANGE” in
which ARTS operation begins.
Whether you talk or not, the polling every 15 or 25 seconds will continue until you de-activate ARTS. Every 10
minutes, moreover, you can have your radio transmit your callsign via CW, so as to comply
with identification requirements. When ARTS is de-activated, DCS will also be deactivated (if you were not using it previously in non-ARTS operation).
If you move out of range for more than one minute (four pollings), your radio will sense
that no signal has been received, three beeps will sound, and the display will revert to
“OUT RANGE.” If you move back into range, your radio will again beep, and the display
will change back to the “IN RANGE” indication.
)
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL38
Page 41
Advanced Operation
ARTS (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM
During ARTS operation, your operating frequency will continue to be displayed, but no
changes may be made to it or other settings; you must terminate ARTS in order to resume
normal operation. This is a safety feature designed to prevent accidental loss of contact
due to channel change, etc.
Here is how to activate ARTS:
)
Basic ARTS Setup and Operation
Set your radio and the other radio(s) to the same DCS code number, per the discussion
on page 27.
Press and hold in the [BAND(SET)AR] key for one second. You will observe the
“OUT RANGE” display on the LCD below the operating frequency. ARTS operation
has now commenced.
Every 25 seconds, your radio will transmit a “polling” call to the other station. When
that station responds with its own ARTS polling signal, the display will change to
“IN RANGE” to confirm that the other station’s polling code was received in response
to yours.
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key again for one second to exit ARTS operation and
resume normal functioning of the transceiver.
ARTS won’t work if you have used the LOCK feature to disable the PTT!
ARTS Polling Time Options
The ARTS feature may be programmed to poll every 25 seconds (default value) or 15
seconds. The default value provides maximum battery conservation, because the polling
signal is sent out less frequently. To change the polling interval:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #19 (“ARTS ITVL”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired polling interval (15 or 25 seconds).
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 39
Page 42
Advanced Operation
ARTS (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM
)
ARTS Alert Beep Options
The ARTS feature allows two kinds of alert beeps (with the additional option of turning
them off), so as to alert you to the current status of ARTS operation. Depending on your
location and the potential annoyance associated with frequent beeps, you may choose the
Beep mode which best suits your needs. The choices are:
IN RANGE: The beeps are issued only when the radio first confirms that you are
within range, but does not re-confirm with beeps thereafter.
ALL: Every time a polling transmission is received from the other station, the
alert beeps will be heard.
OFF: No alert beeps will be heard; you must look at the display to confirm
current ARTS status.
To set the ARTS Beep mode, use the following procedure:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #18 (“ARTS BEEP”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired ARTS Beep mode (see above).
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL40
Page 43
Advanced Operation
ARTS (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM
)
CW Identifier Setup
The ARTS feature includes a CW identifier, as discussed previously. Every ten minutes
during ARTS operation, the radio can be instructed to send “DE (your callsign) K” if this
feature is enabled. The callsign field may contain up to 8 characters.
Here’s how to program the CW Identifier:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #33 (“CW ID”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to set the CW ID function ON.
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key once more to begin entry of the letters and numbers
in your callsign.
Rotate the DIAL to select the first letter or number in your callsign. When the correct
character has been selected, press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to move on to the next
character.
Repeat step as many times as necessary to complete your callsign, pressing
[
BAND(SET)AR] between each entry. Note that the “slant bar” (– •
the available characters, should you be a “portable” station.
To check the programming, before you exit, press the [F/W] key momentarily. You
will hear the CW Identification message as you have programmed it.
When you have entered your entire callsign, press the PTT key to save the settings and
exit to normal operation.
• – •
) is among
Note that the “DE” ( – • • • ) preceding your callsign is already programmed;
you only need to program your callsign, and the “DE” will be appended at
the time of transmission.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 41
Page 44
Memory Mode
The VX-5R provides a wide variety of memory system resources. These include:
220 “Standard” memory channels, numbered “1” through “220.”
A HOME channel per band, allowing storage and quick recall of one prime fre-
quency on each band.
Ten sets of band-edge memories also known as “Programming Memory Scan”
channels, labeled “L1/U1” through “L10/U10”.
Five Memory Groups, labeled “MG1” through “MG5”. Each Memory Group
can be assigned 24 channels from the “standard” memory channel bank.
MEMORY STORAGE
Select the desired frequency, while operating in the VFO mode. Be sure to set up any
desired CTCSS or DCS tones, as well as any desired repeater offset. The power level
may also be set at this time, if you wish to store it.
Press and hold the [F/W] key for one second.
Within five seconds of releasing the [F/W] key, rotate the DIAL to select the desired
memory channel. The microprocessor will automatically select the next-available “free”
channel (a memory register on which no data has been stored). If you see an Asterisk
() by any channel number, it means that the channel currently has no data written on
it (i.e. the channel is “free”).
Press the [F/W] key once more to store the frequency into memory.
You still will be operating in the “VFO” mode, so you may now enter other frequen-
cies, and store them into additional memory locations, by repeating the above process.
STORING INDEPENDENT TRANSMIT FREQUENCIES (“ODD SPLITS•
All memories can store an independent transmit frequency, for operation on repeaters with
non-standard shift. To do this:
Store the receive frequency using the method already described under MEMORY
STORAGE (it doesn’t matter if a repeater offset is active).
Turn to the desired transmit frequency, then press and hold the [F/W] key for one
second.
With in five seconds of releasing the [F/W] key, rotate the DIAL to select the same
memory channel number as used in step above.
Press and hold the PTT switch then press the [F/W] key once more momentarily (this
does not key the transmitter).
Whenever you recall a memory which contains independently-stored trans-
mit and receive frequencies, the “[+][–]” indication will appear in the dis-
play.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL42
)
Page 45
Memory Mode
MEMORY RECALL
While operating in the VFO mode, press the [MR(SKP)SC] key. The “MR” indicator
will show that you are now in the Memory Recall mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired channel.
To return to the VFO mode, press the [VFO(DW)SC] key.
An easy way to recall memories is to key in the memory channel number,
then press [MR(SKP)SC].
For example, to recall memory channel #14, press .
HOME CHANNEL MEMORY
A special one-touch “HOME” channel is available (one for each of the designated “VFO”
bands) to allow quick recall of a favorite operating frequency on each band. Memory
storage is simple to accomplish:
Set Menu Item #24 (“HOME/REV”) to “HOME” if it is not already set to that option
(see page 65).
Select the desired frequency, while operating in the VFO mode. Be sure to set up any
desired CTCSS or DCS tones, as well as any desired repeater offset. The power level
may also be set at this time, if you like.
Press and hold the [F/W] key for one second.
While the memory channel number is blinking, just press the [HM/RV(EMG)] key.
The frequency and other data (if any) will now be stored in the special HOME channel
register.
You may repeat this process on each of the other “VFO” bands.
To recall the HOME channel, press the [HM/RV(EMG)] key momentarily while oper-
ating in the VFO or MR mode. The HOME channel corresponding to the frequency
range on which you are currently operating will automatically be selected (i.e. if you
are operating on a memory channel in the Aviation band, the “Aviation Band Home
Channel” will be selected).
Note that the UHF HOME channel is the one used during “Emergency”
operation. See page 37 for details regarding this feature.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 43
Page 46
Memory Mode
LABELING MEMORIES
You may wish to append an alpha-numeric “Tag” (label) to a memory or memories, to aid
in recollection of the channel’s use (such as a club name, etc.). This is easily accomplished
using the Set mode.
Recall the memory channel on which you wish to append a label.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the Menu mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #03 (“NAME SET”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily to enable programming of the name tag.
Rotate the DIAL to select the first digit of the desired label. When you have made your
selection, press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily to move to the next character.
Repeat the previous step to program the remaining letters , numbers, or symbols of the
desired label. A total of eight characters may be used in the creation of a label.
When you have completed the creation of the label, press the PTT key to save the
label and exit.
During “MR” (Memory Recall) operation, press and hold in the [2(CD)TAG] key for one
second to activate the alphanumeric Tag. Repeatedly pressing and holding in this key will
toggle operation between “Frequency only” display and “Frequency + Tag” display.
MEMORY OFFSET TUNING
Once you have recalled a particular memory channel, you may easily tune off that channel,
as though you were in the “VFO” mode.
With the VX-5R in the “MR” (Memory Recall) mode, select the desired memory chan-
nel.
Now press the [MR(SKP)SC] key momentarily. The “MR” indicator will be replaced
by one which says “MT” (“Memory Tuning”).
Rotate the DIAL, as desired, to tune to a new frequency. The synthesizer steps selected
for VFO operation on the current band will be the steps used during Memory Tuning.
If you wish to return to the original memory frequency, press the [MR(SKP)SC] key
momentarily. The “MT” indicator will be replaced by “MR”.
If you wish to store a new frequency set during Memory Tuning, just press and hold in
the [F/W] key for one second, per normal memory storage procedure. The microprocessor will automatically set itself to the next-available clear memory location, and
you then press [F/W] again to lock in the new frequency.
If you want to replace the original memory contents with those of the new fre-
quency, be sure to rotate the DIAL to the original memory channel number!
Any required CTCSS/DCS changes, or repeater offset modifications, must be
done before storing the data into the new (or original) memory channel location.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL44
Page 47
Memory Mode
MASKING MEMORIES
There may be situations where you want to “Mask” memories so they are not visible during
memory selection or scanning. For example, several memories used only in a city you visit
infrequently may be stored, then “Masked” until you visit that city, at which time you can
“Unmask” them for normal use.
Press the [MR(SKP)SC] key, if needed, to enter the MR mode.
Press and hold in the [F/W] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL to select the
memory channel to be “Masked” from view.
Press the [MR(SKP)SC] key. The display will revert to memory channel #1. If you
rotate the DIAL to the location you just “Masked,” you will observe that it is now
invisible.
To Unmask the hidden memory, repeat the above procedure: press and hold in the
[
F/W] key for one second, rotate the DIAL to select the masked memory’s number,
then press [MR(SKP)SC] to restore the memory channel’s data.
Watch out! You can manually store data over a “Masked” memory, deleting
previous data, if you’re not careful. Use the “next available memory” technique
(look for the [] icon) storage technique to avoid over-writing a masked memory.
MEMORY GROUP OPERATION
Memory Group Assignment
Recall the memory channel to be assigned to a Memory Group.
Press and hold the [F/W] key for one second, then press the numbered key ([1] ~ [5])
you want as the Memory Group for this channel.
Now memory channel data is copied into the Memory Group.
Memory Group Recall
Press the [MR(SKP)SC] key to recall the Memory mode.
Press [F/W] then [4(MG)DSP] to activate the “Memory Group” mode.
Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Memory
Group (“MG1” ~ “MG5”).
Press the [MR(SKP)SC] key momentarily to lock in
the selected Memory Group.
In the Memory Group, you selects the memory chan-
nel in the current memory group only (up to 24 channels).
To exit the Memory Group, press [VFO(DW)SC] then [MR(SKP)SC] to return to the
(non-grouped) Memory mode.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 45
Page 48
Scanning
The VX-5R allows you to scan just the memory channels, the entire operating band, or a
portion of that band. It will halt on signals encountered, so you can talk to the station(s) on
that frequency, if you like.
Scanning operation is basically the same in each of the above modes. Before you begin,
take a moment to select the way in which you would like the scanner to resume scanning
after it halts on a signal.
Setting the Scan Resume Technique
Three options for the Scan-Resume mode are available:
5 SEC: In this mode, the scanner will halt on a signal it encounters, and will hold
there for 5 seconds. If you do not take action to disable the scanner within that
time period, the scanner will resume even if the stations are still active.
BUSY: In this mode, the scanner will halt on a signal it encounters. Two seconds after
the carrier has dropped because the other station(s) ceased transmission, the
scanner will resume. In the case of constant-carrier signals like Weather Station broadcasts, the scanner will likely remain on this frequency indefinitely.
HOLD: In this mode, the scanner will halt on a signal it encounters. It will not restart
automatically; you must manually re-initiate scanning if you wish to resume.
To set the Scan-Resume mode
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #12 (“RESUME”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired scan-resume mode.
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
The default condition for this Menu Item is “5 SEC.”
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL46
Page 49
Scanning
VFO SCANNING
This mode allows you to scan the entire current operating band.
Select the VFO mode by pressing the [VFO(DW)SC] key, if necessary.
Press and hold in the [VFO(DW)SC] key for one second to start scanning.
If and when the scanner encounters a signal strong enough to open the squelch, the
scanner will halt temporarily; the decimal point of the frequency display will blink
during this “Pause” condition.
The scanner will then resume according to the Scan Resume selected in the previous
section.
To cancel scanning, press the PTT, [MR(SKP)SC], or [VFO(DW)SC] key.
When you press the [VFO(DW)SC] key to start scanning, the VX-5R will be
changing frequency in the upward direction. If you want to change direction
of the scan while it is underway, rotate the DIAL one click in the opposite
direction (in this case, one click counter-clockwise). You’ll see the scanner turn around
and change frequency downward!
MEMORY SCANNING
Memory scanning is similarly easy to initiate:
Set the radio to the Memory mode by pressing the [MR(SKP)SC] key, if necessary.
Press and hold in the [MR(SKP)SC] key for one second to initiate scanning.
As with VFO scanning, the scanner will halt on any signal encountered that is strong
enough to open the squelch; it will then resume scanning according to the Scan-Resume mode set previously.
To cancel scanning, press the PTT, [MR(SKP)SC], or [VFO(DW)SC] key.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 47
Page 50
Scanning
HOW TO S
As mentioned previously, some continuous-carrier stations like a Weather Broadcast station will seriously impede scanner operation if you are using the “Carrier Drop” ScanResume mode, as the incoming signal will not pause long enough for the transceiver to
resume scanning. Such channels may be “Skipped” during scanning, if you like:
Set the radio to the Memory Mode by pressing the [MR(SKP)SC] key, if necessary.
Rotate the DIAL to select the Memory Channel to be skipped during scanning.
Press the [F/W] key momentarily (not for one second), then press the [MR(SKP)SC
key (momentarily). A small “” icon will appear to the left of the memorized frequency, indicating it is to be ignored during scanning.
To re-institute the channel into the scanning loop, repeat the above three steps (the “skipped”
channel will, of course, still be accessible via manual channel selection methods using the
DIAL in the MR mode).
KIP
(O
)
MIT
A CHANNEL DURING MEMORY SCAN OPERATION
PREFERENTIAL MEMORY SCAN
The VX-5R also allows you to set up a “Preferential Scan List” of channels which you can
“flag” within the memory system. These channels are designated by a “ ” icon when you
have selected them, one by one, for the Preferential Scan List. When you initiate memory
scanning on a channel with the “ ” icon appended, only those channels bearing the “ ”
icon will be scanned. If you initiate scanning on a channel which does not have the “ ” icon
appended, you will scan all channels including those with the “ ” icon appended.
]
Here is the procedure for setting up and using the Preferential Scan List:
Press the [MR(SKP)SC] key momentarily to enter the Memory Recall mode, if you
are not using memories already.
Rotate the DIAL to select the channel which you wish to add to the Preferential Scan List.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [MR(SKP)SC] key. The “” icon will appear
beside the channel number. Now press the [F/W] key, then press the [MR(SKP)SC
key again. The “” icon will be replaced by the “ ” icon, indicating that the channel is
now in the Preferential Scan List.
To initiate Preferential Memory Scan:
Press the [MR(SKP)SC] key momentarily to enter the Memory Recall mode, if you
are not using memories already.
Rotate the DIAL to select any channel which has an “ ” icon appended to the channel
number.
Press and hold in the [MR(SKP)SC] key for one second to initiate Preferential Memory
Scanning. Only the channels which have an “ ” icon appended to the channel number
will be scanned.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL48
]
Page 51
Scanning
PROGRAMMABLE (BAND LIMIT
This feature allows you to set sub-band limits for either scanning or manual VFO operation. For example, you might wish to set up a limit (in North America) of 144.300 MHz to
148.000 MHz so as to prevent encroachment into the SSB/CW “Weak Signal” portion of
the band below 144.300 MHz. Here’s how to do this:
Set the radio to the VFO mode by pressing the [VFO(DW)SC] key, if necessary.
Using the techniques learned earlier, store (per the above example) 144.300 MHz into
Memory Channel #L1 (the “L” designates the Lower sub-band limit).
Likewise, store 148.000 MHz into Memory Channel #U1 (the “U” designates the
Upper sub-band limit).
Switch to the Memory mode by pressing the [MR(SKP)SC] key once, then rotate the
DIAL to select Memory Channel # L1.
Press the [MR(SKP)SC] key; the “MR” label will be replaced by “PMS” in the upper
left-hand corner of the display.
You may now rotate the DIAL, or begin scanning by pressing the [VFO(DW)SC] key
for one second. The transceiver will behave as though it is in the standard VFO mode,
but operation will be restricted to the range between Memory Channels L1 and U1.
If you wish to scan, do not press the [MR(SKP)SC] key, as it is disabled
during PMS operation. Press and hold in the [VFO(DW)SC] key instead.
Ten pairs of Band Limit memories, labeled L1/U1 through L10/U10 are available.
You therefore can set upper and lower operation limits on a number of bands, if you
like.
)
EMORY SCAN
M
(
PMS
)
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 49
Page 52
Scanning
“PRIORITY CHANNEL•ES CANNING (DUAL WATCH
The VX-5R’s scanning features include a two-channel scanning capability which allows
you to operate on a VFO or Memory channel, while periodically checking a user-select-
able Priority Channel for activity. If a station is received on the Priority Channel which is
strong enough to open the Squelch, the scanner will pause on that station in accordance
with the Scan-Resume mode set via Menu #12 (see page 63).
)
Here is the procedure for activating Priority Channel Dual Watch operation:
Recall the memory channel you wish to be the “Priority” Channel.
Press and hold in the [F/W] key for one second, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key.
A “P” icon will appear to the right of the memory channel number, indicating it is the
priority channel.
Now set the VX-5R for operation on another memory channel, or on a VFO frequency.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [VFO(DW)SC] key (momentarily). The display
will remain on the VFO or memory channel selected, but every four seconds the VX5R will check the Priority Channel (now labeled n P) for activity (when “n ” is the
channel number).
Changing the Priority Channel
It is possible to set the Priority Channel to any "regular" Memory Channel in the transceiver. To do this:
Press and hold in the [F/W] button until the memory channel blinks, then use the DIAL
knob to select the channel you wish to assign as the Priority Channel.
Now press the [BAND(SET)AR] key. The new Priority is now assigned.
To return the Priority Channel to Channel 1 (default), repeat the above procedure,
selecting Channel 1 in step above.
Here is the procedure for activating Two-VFO Dual Watch operation:
Press the [VFO(DW)SC] key to switch to the VFO mode, if needed.
Press the [F/W] key, then press and hold in the [VFO(DW)SC] key.
The VX-5R will now periodically change from the VFO-A frequency to the VFO-B
frequency, checking for activity on VFO-B for 0.2 second.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL50
Page 53
Scanning
AUTOMATIC LAMP ILLUMINATION ON SCAN STOP
The VX-5R will automatically illuminate the LCD Lamp whenever the scanner stops on a
signal; this allows you to see the frequency of the incoming signal better at night. Note that
this will, of course, increase the battery consumption, so be sure to switch it off during the
day (the default condition for this feature is “ON”).
The procedure for disabling the Scan Lamp is:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #13 (“SCAN LAMP”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to set this Menu item to OFF.
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
BAND EDGE BEEPER
The VX-5R will automatically “beep” when a band edge is encountered during scanning
(either in standard VFO scanning or during PMS operation). You may disable this feature,
if it is annoying, without disabling the keypad beeper (the default condition for this feature
is “ON”).
The procedure for disabling the Band-Edge Beeper is:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #21 (“EDGE BEEP”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to set this Menu item to OFF.
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 51
Page 54
Smart Search Operation
The Smart Search feature allows you to load frequencies automatically according to where
activity is encountered by your radio. When Smart Search is engaged, the transceiver will
search above and below your current frequency, storing active frequencies as it goes (without stopping on them even momentarily); these frequencies are stored into a special Smart
Search memory bank, consisting of 31 memories (15 above the current frequency, 15 below the current frequency, plus the current frequency itself).
Two basic operating modes for Smart Search are available:
SINGLE Sweep: In this mode, the transceiver will sweep the current band once in
each direction starting on the current frequency. All channels where
activity is present will be loaded into the Smart Search memories;
whether or not all 31 memories are filled, the search will stop after
one sweep in each direction.
CONTINUE: In this mode, the transceiver will make one pass in each direction as
with One-Shot searching; if all 31 channels are not filled after the
first sweep, however, the radio will continue sweeping until they are
all filled.
Setting the Smart Search Mode
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #35 (“SMRT SRCH”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired Smart Search mode (see above).
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
Storing Smart Search Memories
Set the radio to the VFO mode in the desired band.
Press and hold in the [F/W] key for one second, then press the LAMP key.
Press the [VFO(DW)SC] key to begin the Smart Search scanning.
As active channels are detected, you will observe the number of “loaded” channels
increasing in the regular memory channel window.
Depending on the mode you set for Smart Search operation (SINGLE or CONTINUE),
the Smart Search scan will eventually terminate, and the LCD will revert to Smart
Search Memory Channel 01.
To recall Smart Search memories, rotate the DIAL to choose from among the Smart
Search memories.
To return to normal operation, Press the [F/W] key, then the LAMP key.
Smart Search is a great tool when visiting a city for the first time. You don’t
need to spend hours looking up repeater frequencies from a reference guide-
book... just ask your VX-5R where the action is!
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL52
Page 55
Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) Operation
The Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) allows viewing operating activity on channels
above or below the current operating channel in the VFO mode.
The display indicates the relative signal strength on channels immediately adjacent to the
current operating frequency.
Two basic operating modes for Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) are available:
SINGLE Sweep: In this mode, the transceiver sweeps the current band once.
CONTINUE: In this mode, the transceiver sweeps the current band repeatedly until
the Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) is turned off.
Setting the Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) mode
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to enter the SET mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #34 (“SPEC-ANAL”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Rotate the DIAL to select the desired Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) mode
(see above).
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
To Activate the Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM):
Set the radio to the VFO mode in the desired band.
Press the [F/W] key momentarily, then press the LAMP key.
When the Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) is activated, eleven channels are viewed per sweep. The visible
bandwidth, however, depends on the selected channel step
size, so match the default channel steps with the amateur
band you are using.
To turn the Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) off and operate on the centered (and
displayed) channel, press the PTT switch momentarily, then press [F/W] key, followed by
LAMP key.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 53
Page 56
Barometric Pressure/Altitude Metering
The optional Barometric Pressure unit (SU-1) brings to the VX-5R the unique capability
of providing readout of the current barometric pressure. This information is then used for
calculation of your current altitude, when hiking, etc.
The Barometric Pressure unit requires calibration of the “offset” parameters, so that differences in pressure can be used to calculate altitude. This procedure requires that you have a
calibrated barometer, and that you know your current altitude. If you are at sea level, of
course, the latter parameter requires no research.
Correcting the Atmospheric Pressure Meter (Barometer Offset)
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the Set Mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #43 (“BARO OFST”), then press the
[
BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily.
Turn the DIAL to set the difference (value) between the VX-5R display and the cali-
brated barometer display. For example, if the VX-5R display shows “1024 hpa”
and calibrated barometer indicates “1029 hpa”, set the Barometer offset to “+5”.
Press the PTT key momentarily to save the your new setting and exit to normal opera-
tion.
Use the chart on the next page to convert from “hpa” to “Inches of Mercury”
if your barometer does not read metric values.
Correcting the Altimeter Setting (Altimeter Offset)
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the SET Mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #44 (“ALTI OFST”), then press the
[
BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily.
Turn the DIAL to set the difference (value) between the VX-5R’s currently-displayed
value and current location's altitude. For example, if the VX-5R display indicates
“2m” while you actually are at sea level, set the Altimeter offset to “–2” in this step.
You can set the ALTI OFST at any place (other than sea level) if you know the true
altitude at you current location.
Press the PTT key momentarily to save the your new setting and exit to normal opera-
tion.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL54
Page 57
Barometric Pressure/Altitude Metering
Once you have completed the above calibration, you can confirm the current Barometric
Pressure, or your current Altitude, from the front panel’s keypad:
How to Measure the Barometric Pressure
Press and hold in the [8(BRO)] key to display the current
Barometric Pressure. The pressure in millibars will be displayed below the frequency. If you leave the display in
this mode, a bar graph will be created, over time, to indicate relative changes in the pressure (two bars per hours).
To return to normal operation, press and hold the [8(BRO)] key for one second. If you
were operating with the Main VFO field enlarged, press [4(MG)DSP] key instead.
How to Measure the Altitude
Press and hold in the [9(BP)ALT] key to display the current Altitude.
To return to normal operation, press and hold the
[9(BP)
ALT] key for one second. If you were operating
with the Main VFO field enlarged, press [4(MG)DSP] key instead.
Barometric Pressure Conversion Chart (Rounded to nearest whole number)
hpa (mb) Inche s hpa (mb) Inche s hpa (mb) Inche s hpa (mb) Inche s
98 2 2 9. 0 100 1 29.5 5 1 011 29.8 5 1026 3 0.3
98 5 2 9. 1 100 2 2 9. 6 101 3 2 9. 9 1029 3 0.4
98 9 2 9. 2 100 4 29.6 5 1014 29 .9 5 1033 3 0.5
99 2 2 9. 3 100 6 2 9. 7 101 6 3 0. 0 1036 3 0.6
99 6 2 9. 4 100 7 29.7 5 1019 3 0.1
99 9 2 9. 5 100 9 2 9. 8 102 3 3 0. 2
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 55
Page 58
Display Customization
The VX-5R’s display includes several unique customization options which can expand
your enjoyment of your transceiver.
ICON MODE
The display’s alphanumeric labels can be replaced by pictorial icons, which may be easier
to remember during operation.
To activate the ICON mode, press and hold in the [5(AP)ICO] key for one second. The display
will change to incorporate the default icons, as stored in the microprocessor's firmware.
You can also modify the Icon which represents a particular operating function.
ICON Selection
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to enter the SET Mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #4 (“ICON”), then press the [BAND(SET)AR
key momentarily.
Turn the DIAL to select the desired band or
mode on which you wish to utilize an Icon,
then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily.
Turn the DIAL to select the desired Icon to be
displayed in place of the regular indicator.
Press the PTT key momentarily to save the
your new setting and exit to normal operation.
]
METER SYMBOLS
The S- and TX Power Meter is a “bar graph” type of display. The default “>>” symbol
which is used for this meter may be replaced by several other symbols, if desired.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to activate the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #42 (“MTR SYMB”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily to enable modification of this Menu
item.
Rotate the DIAL to select from among the available symbols: >>, , , =, , –, CHR.
If you select the “CHR” (Character), press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to begin entry
of the character (letters and numbers) in the “bar graph”.
Rotate the DIAL to select the character in the first digit, then press the [BAND(SET)AR
key to move to the next digit.
Repeat previous step as necessary to complete, pressing the [BAND(SET)AR] key
after each entry.
When you have made your choice, press the PTT key to save your selection and exit to
normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL56
]
Page 59
Display Customization
POWER-OFF DISPLAY MODE
When the VX-5R is turned off, the LCD may be set up to display one or more environmental measurements. These include temperature, barometric pressure, altitude, or combinations of these.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to activate the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #45 (“DISP MODE”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily to enable modification of this Menu
item.
Rotate the DIAL to select the new setting. The options include
NONE: No display when the transceiver is off.
TEMP: Display of temperature when the transceiver is off.
BARO: Display of barometric pressure when the transceiver is off.
(requires optional SU-1). A bar graph will indicate relative
changes in the pressure (two bars per hour).
ALTI: Display of the current altitude when the transceiver is off.
(requires optional SU-1)
TEMP + BARO: Display of temperature plus barometric pressure.
TEMP + ALTI: Display of temperature plus altitude.
ALL: Display of temperature plus barometric pressure plus altitude.
When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and
exit to normal operation.
If any of the above settings is enabled (i.e. any setting except “NONE”), current drain with the VX-5R turned off will be about 20 mA. We recommend
that the Power-Off Display Mode be set to “NONE” if you plan to be away
from the radio for an extended period of time.
DISPLAY CONTRAST
The LCD’s contrast may be adjusted using the Menu, as well.
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key to activate the Set mode.
Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #41 (“CONTRAST”).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily to enable modification of this Menu
item.
Rotate the DIAL to adjust the contrast. As you make the adjustment, you will be able
to see the effects of your changes.
When you have completed the adjustment, press the PTT key to save the new setting
and exit to normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 57
Page 60
Reset
MICROPROCESSOR RESETTING
Turn the radio off.
Press and hold the [4(MG)DSP], [MR(SKP)SC], and [VFO(DW)SC] key while
turning the radio on.
Press the [F/W] key momentarily to initialize the radio.
SET MODE RESETTING
Turn the radio off.
Press and hold the [MR(SKP)SC] and [VFO(DW)SC] key while turning the radio on.
Press the [F/W] key momentarily to initialize the Set mode.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL58
Page 61
Cloning
The VX-5R includes a convenient “Clone” feature, which allows the memory and configuration data from one transceiver to be transferred to another VX-5R. This can be particularly useful when configuring a number of transceivers for a public service operation. Here
is the procedure for Cloning one radio’s data to another:
Turn both radios off.
Connect the optional CT-27 cloning cable between the MIC/EAR jacks of the two
radios.
Press and hold the [F/W] key while turning the radios on. Do this for both radios (the
order of the switch-on does not matter). “CLONE” will appear on the displays of both
radios when the Clone mode is successfully activated in this step.
On the Destination radio, press the [MR(SKP)SC
key (“CLONE WAIT” will appear on the LCD).
Press the [VFO(DW)SC] key on the Source radio;
“CLONE TX” will appear on the Source radio, and
the data is transferred.
If there is a problem during the cloning process,
“CLONE ERROR” will be displayed. Check your
cable connections and battery voltage, and try again.
If the data transfer is successful, the Destination ra-
dio will return to normal operation; the Source radio
will still be in the clone mode, with “CLONE TX” still displayed. Turn both radios off
and disconnect the CT-27. You can then turn the radios back on, and begin normal
operation.
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 59
Page 62
Set Mode
The VX-5R Set (Menu) mode is easy to activate and set. Use the following procedure:
Press the [F/W] key, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key, to activate the Set mode.
Turn the DIAL to select the Menu item number to be adjusted.
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL to adjust or select
the parameter to be changed on the Menu item selected in above step.
After completing your selection and adjustment, press the PTT switch momentarily to
exit the Set mode and exit to normal operation.
Set Mode Summary
Ite m
Menu Item Function Availab le Valu es D efau lt
#
1
SQUELCH
2
WFM SQL S e t the F M - W id e S q ue lc h thre s ho ld le vel 0 ~ 8 02
3
NAME SET Store Alpha-Numeric "Tags" - -
4
IC O N IC O N S e le c t - -
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
VFO Select/disable the VFO Band edge ALL/BAND BAND
ARS Enable/disable the Automatic Repeater Shift ON/OFF ON
RPT S HIFT S et the Repeater Shift Direction -RPT/+RPT/SIM P
S HIF T Set the magnitude of the Repeater Shift 0.00 ~ 99.95 MHz
VF O SP LIT Enable/disable "VFO Split" Operation ON/OFF OFF
VFO LINK Enable/disable VF O Link feature ON/OFF OFF
VFO STEP Setting of the synthesizer steps
RESUME Select the S can Resume m ode 5 SEC /BUSY/HOLD 5 SEC
SCAN
LAM P
RX SAVE S elect the Rx-mode Battery Sa ver interval
TX S AVE E nable/disable the Transmit Battery Saver ON/OFF OFF
APO S e t the A uto m a ti c P ow e r-O ff ti m e
BUS Y LED Enable/d isable the BUS Y LED ON/OFF ON
ARTS
BEEP
ARTS ITVL
KEY BEEP E nable/disable the Keypad beeper ON/OFF ON
EDGE
BEEP
BELL Select the CTCSS Bell ringer repetitions OFF/1/3/5/8/REPEAT OFF
MO N/T-CA L Select the MON key function MO N/T-CA L
HOM E/REV S elect the function of [HM/RV(EM G)] key HOM E/REV
LAM P
MODE
TOT Set the TOT time
BC LO E nable/disable the Busy Channel Lock-Out ON/OFF OF F
CLOCK
SFT
SQL TYPE
S et the A M a nd F M -N S que lch thres hold
le ve l
Enable/disable the Scan lamp ON/OFF ON
Select the Beep o ption during ARTS
operation
Select the Polling Interval during ARTS
operation
Enable/disable the Band-edge beeper ON/OFF OFF
Selct the LCD/Keypad Lamp mode KEY/TOGGLE/5 SEC KEY
Shifting of C PU clock frequency ON/OFF OFF
Select the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder
mode
IN RANGE/ALWAYS/OFF
0 ~ 15 01
5/9/10/12.5/15/20/
25/50/100 kHz
OFF /200mS/300mS/
500mS /1S/2S
OFF/30min/1hour/3hour/
5hour/8hour
15 SEC/25 SEC 25 SEC
OFF/1min/2.5min/
5min/10min
OFF/TONE/TONE
SQL/DCS
200mS
OFF
IN
RANGE
2.5min
OFF
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL60
Page 63
Set Mode
Ite m
Menu Item Function Availab le Valu es Default
#
30
TONE SET Setting of the CTCSS Tone Frequency 39 standard CTCSS tones 100 Hz
31
DCS SET S ettin g o f the D C S c od e 104 standard DC S codes 023
32
DTMF SET Programming the DTMF Autodialer - -
33
CW ID Programming and activate the CW IDer - -
SPEC-ANA-
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
SMRT
SRCH
RX M OD E Select the Operating mode AUTO/N-FM/W-FM/AM A UTO
LOC K
MODE
HALF DE V Reducing the Deviation level by 50% ON/OFF O FF
LANGUA GE Select the language for the Set (menu) mode ENGLISH/JAPANESE ENGLISH
ON TIME R S et the ON Timer time OFF ~ 24:00 OFF
CO NTRAST S e tting o f the D isp lay co ntrast leve l 1 ~ 10 5
MTR SYMB Select the S/PO meter Symbol
BARO
OFST
ALTI OFS T C orrecting the altim eter setting -500 ~ +500 m 0 m
DISP MODE
Set Item 1[SQUELCH
Function: Set the Squelch threshold level for the AM and FM-Narrow modes.
Available Values: 0 ~ 15
Default: 01
Select the Spectrum Analyzer Sweep m ode S INGLE /CONTINUE SINGLE
L
Select the Sm art Search Sweep mod e SINGLE/CONTINUE SINGLE
Select the Control Locking lockout
comb ination
C orre c ting the atm o sp he ric pre s sure -500 ~ +500 hpa (mb)
Select the display
while the Transceiver's power is off
KEY/DIAL/PTT/KEY+DIAL/
KEY+PTT/DIAL+PTT/ALL
>>
, , , =, , –, CHR
NONE/TEMP/BARO/ALTI/
TEM P+BA RO/
TEM P+ALTI/ALL
: Depends on the transceiver version.
Set Mode Details
]
KEY
>>
0 hpa
(m b)
NONE
Set Item 2[WFM SQL
]
Function: Set the Squelch threshold level for the FM-Wide mode.
Available Values: 0 ~ 15
Default: 02
Set Item 3[NAME SET
]
Function: Store Alpha-Numeric “Tags” for the Memory channels.
Name Storing:
Recall the memory channel to be named.
Recall Menu Item 3, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily.
Turn the DIAL to select the desired first letter, number, or symbol, then press the
[
BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily to save the first letter/number/ symbol.
Repeat the previous step as necessary to complete, pressing the [BAND(SET)AR
key after each entry.
Press the PTT key momentarily to save the your new setting and exit to normal operation.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 61
]
Page 64
Set Mode
Set Item 4[ICON
Function: ICON selection.
Recall Menu Item 3, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily.
Turn the DIAL to select the desired band or mode on which you wish to utilize an
Icon, then press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily.
Turn the DIAL to select the desired Icon to be displayed in place of the regular indica-
tor.
Press the PTT key momentarily to save the your new setting and exit to normal opera-
tion.
Set Item 5[VFO
Function: Select or disable the VFO Band edge for the current band.
Available Values: ALL/BAND
Default: BAND
ALL: When the VFO frequency reaches the high edge of the current band, the VFO
frequency will jump to the low band edge of the next band (or vice versa).
BAND: When the VFO frequency reaches the high band edge of the current band, the
VFO frequency will jump to the low band edge of the current band (or vice versa).
Set Item 6[ARS
Function: Enable/disable the Automatic Repeater Shift function.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: ON
Set Item 7[RPT SHIFT
Function: Set the Repeater Shift Direction
Available Values: –RPT/+RPT/SIMP
Default: Depends on the transceiver version.
]
]
]
]
Set Item 8[SHIFT
Function: Set the magnitude of the Repeater Shift.
Available Values: 0.00 ~ 99.95 MHz
Default: Depends on the transceiver version, as well as the setting of Menu #06 (ARS).
Set Item 9[VFO SPLIT
Function: Enable/disable “VFO Split” Operation
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
When this feature “ON,” you can operate in a “split” mode between the Main and Sub
VFO frequencies (the Main VFO will be used for Rx, while the Sub VFO will be used for
Tx).
]
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL62
Page 65
Set Mode
Set Item 10[VFO LINK
Function: Enable/disable the VFO Link feature.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
When this feature “ON,” the Main and Sub VFOs are “slaved” so that they change frequency together.
Set Item 11[VFO STEP
Function: Setting of the synthesizer steps.
Available Values: 5/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100 kHz
Default: Depends on the transceiver version.
Set Item 12[RESUME
Function: Select the Scan Resume mode.
Available Values: 5 SEC/BUSY/HOLD
Default: 5 SEC
5 SEC: The scanner will hold for 5 seconds, then resume whether or not the other station
is still transmitting.
BUSY: The scanner will hold until the signal disappears, then will resume when the car-
rier drops.
HOLD: The scanner will stop when a signal is received, and will not restart.
Set Item 13[SCAN LAMP
Function: Enable/disable the Scan lamp while paused.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: ON
]
]
]
]
Set Item 14[RX SAVE
Function: Select the Receive-mode Battery Saver interval (“sleep” ratio).
Available Values: OFF/200mS(1:1)/300mS(1:1.5)/500mS(1:2.5)/1s(1:5)/2s(1:10)
Default: 200mS(1:1)
Set Item 15[TX SAVE
Function: Enable/disable The Transmit Battery Saver.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
Set Item 16[APO
Function: Set the Automatic Power-Off time.
Available Values: OFF/30 min/1 hour/3 hours/5 hours/8 hours
Default: OFF
]
]
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 63
Page 66
Set Mode
Set Item 17[BUSY LED
Function: Enable/disable the BUSY LED while the Squelch is open.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: ON
Set Item 18[ARTS BEEP
Function: Select the Beep option during ARTS operation.
Available Values: IN RANGE/ALWAYS/OFF
Default: IN RANGE
IN RANGE: Beeps sound only when the radio first detects that you are within range.
ALWAYS: Beeps sound every time a polling transmission is received from the other
station (every 15 or 25 seconds when in range).
OFF: No alert beeps sound.
Set Item 19[ARTS ITVL
Function: Select the Polling Interval during ARTS operation.
Available Values: 15 SEC/25 SEC
Default: 25 SEC
This setting determines how often the other station will be polled during ARTS operation.
Set Item 20[KEY BEEP
Function: Enable/disable the Keypad beeper.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: ON
]
]
]
]
Set Item 21[EDGE BEEP
Function: Enable/disable the Band-edge beeper while scanning.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
When this feature “ON,” a beep will sound when the scanner reaches the band edge (during VFO Scanning) or when it reaches Memory channel “1” (during Memory Channel
Scanning).
Set Item 22[BELL
Function: Select the CTCSS Bell ringer repetitions.
Available Values: OFF/1/3/5/8/REPEAT
Default: OFF
]
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL64
Page 67
Set Mode
Set Item 23[MON/T-CAL
Function: Select the MONI key (just below the PTT switch) function.
Available Values: MON/T-CAL
Default: Depends on the transceiver version.
MON: Pressing the MONI key causes the noise/tone Squelch to be over-ridden, allowing
you to listen for weak (or non-encoded) signals.
T-CAL: Pressing the MONI key activates a 1750-Hz burst tone, used for repeater access in
many countries.
Set Item 24[HOME/REV
Function: Select the function of the [HM/RV(EMG)] key.
Available Values: HOME/REV
Default: Depends on the transceiver version.
HOME: Pressing this key instantly recalls a favorite “Home” channel.
REV: Pressing this key reverses the transmit and receive frequencies during repeater
operation.
Set Item 25[LAMP MODE
Function: Select the LCD/Keypad Lamp mode.
Available Values: KEY/TOGGLE/5 SEC
Default: KEY
KEY: Illuminates the LCD/Keypad for 5 seconds when any key is pressed.
TOGGLE: Pressing the LAMP key toggles LCD/Keypad lamp On/Off.
5 SEC: Pressing the LAMP key illuminates the LCD/Keypad for 5 seconds.
]
]
]
Set Item 26[TOT
Function: Set the TOT time.
Available Values: OFF/1 min/2.5 min/5 min/10 min
Default: 2.5 min
The time-out timer shuts off the transmitter after continuous transmission of the programmed
time.
Set Item 27[BCLO
Function: Enable/disable the Busy Channel Lock-Out feature.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
Set Item 28[CLOCK SFT
Function: Shifting of CPU clock frequency.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
This function is only used to move a spurious response “birdie” should it fall on a desired
frequency.
]
]
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 65
Page 68
Set Mode
Set Item 29[SQL TYPE
Function: Select the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder mode.
Available Values: OFF/TONE/TONE SQL/DCS
Default: OFF
TONE: CTCSS Encoder
TONE SQL: CTCSS Encoder/Decoder
DCS: Digital Coded Squelch Encoder/Decoder
Set Item 30[TONE SET
Function: Setting of the CTCSS Tone Frequency
Available Values: 39 standard CTCSS tones
Default: 100 Hz
In this mode, press the [2(CD)TAG] key (not PTT) to save the new setting
and exit to normal operation.
Set Item 31[DCS SET
Function: Setting of the DCS code.
Available Values: 104 standard DCS codes.
Default: 023
In this mode, press the [2(CD)TAG] key (not PTT) to save the new setting
and exit to normal operation.
]
]
]
Set Item 32[DTMF SET
Function: Programming the DTMF Autodialer.
DTMF Autodialer Programming:
After selecting Menu Item 32, press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily.
Rotate the DIAL to select the autodial memory number you want to store (9 memories
are available).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily, then key in the phone number you want
to store (maximum: 16 digits).
If you make a mistake, press the MONI key twice to clear the current digit and re-enter
the correct number.
After entering the final digit, press the PTT key momentarily to save the new setting
and exit to normal operation.
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL66
Page 69
Set Mode
Set Item 33[CW ID
Function: Program and activate the CW Identifier (used during ARTS operation).
CW IDer Programming:
After selecting Menu Item 33, press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily.
Turn the DIAL one click to change the display from OFF to ON (CW IDer ON).
Press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily, then turn the DIAL to select the first
letter/number of your callsign, and press the [BAND(SET)AR] key momentarily to
save the first letter/number.
Repeat the previous step as necessary to complete your callsign, pressing the
[
BAND(SET)AR] key after each entry.
Press the PTT key momentarily to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
Set Item 34[SPEC-ANAL
Function: Select the Spectrum Analyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) Sweep mode.
Available Values: SINGLE/CONTINUE
Default: SINGLE
SINGLE: The transceiver sweeps the current band once.
CONTINUE: The transceiver sweeps the current band repeatedly until the Spectrum Ana-
Set Item 35[SMRT SRCH
Function: Select the Smart Search Sweep mode.
Available Values: SINGLE/CONTINUE
Default: SINGLE
SINGLE: The transceiver sweeps the current band once in each direction starting on
CONTINUE: The transceiver makes a sweep in each direction as with the “SINGLE”
]
]
lyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM) is turned off
]
the current frequency. All channels where activity is present (up to 15 in
each direction) are loaded into the Smart Search memories. Whether or not
all 31 memories are filled, the search stops after one sweep in each direction.
mode, but if all 31 channels are not filled after the first sweep, the radio
continues sweeping until they are all filled.
Set Item 36[RX MODE
Function: Select the Operating mode.
Available Values: AUTO/N-FM/AM/W-FM
Default: AUTO (Mode automatically changes according to operating frequency)
Set Item 37[LOCK MODE
Function: Select the Control Locking lockout combination.
Available Values: KEY/DIAL/PTT/KEY+DIAL/KEY+PTT/DIAL+PTT/ALL
Default: KEY
]
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 67
Page 70
Set Mode
Set Item 38[HALF DEV
Function: Reducing the Deviation level by 50%.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
Set Item 39[LANGUAGE
Function: Select the language for the SET (Menu) mode selections.
Available Values: ENGLISH/JAPANESE
Default: ENGLISH
Set Item 40[ON TIMER
Function: Set the ON Timer time.
Available Values: OFF ~ 24:00
Default: OFF
The ON Timer turns on the radio at the programmed time.
Set Item 41[CONTRAST
Function: Setting of the Display contrast level.
Available Values: 1 ~ 10
Default: 5
Set Item 42[MTR SYMB
Function: Select the S/PO meter Symbol.
Available Values: >>, , , =, , –, CHR
Default:
>>
]
]
]
]
]
Set Item 43[BARO OFST
Function: Correcting the atmospheric pressure.
Available Values: –500 ~ +500 hpa (mb)
Default: 0 hpa (mb)
Set Item 44[ALTI OFST
Function: Correcting the altimeter setting.
Available Values: –500 ~ +500 m
Default: 0 m
]
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL68
Page 71
Set Mode
Set Item 45[DISP MODE
Function: Select the display while the transceiver’s power is off
Available Values: NONE/TEMP/BARO/ALTI/TEMP+BARO/TEMP+ALTI/ALL
Default: NONE
NONE: No display when the transceiver is off.
TEMP: The current temperature will be displayed while the transceiver’s power is
off.
BARO: The current barometric pressure will be displayed while the transceiver’s
power is off.
ALTI: The current altitude will be displayed while the transceiver’s power is off
(calculated from the barometric pressure).
TEMP+BARO: The current temperature and barometric pressure will be displayed while
the transceiver’s power is off.
TEMP+ALTI: The current temperature and altitude will be displayed while the
transceiver’s power is off.
ALL: The current temperature, barometric pressure and altitude will be displayed
while the transceiver’s power is off.
]
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 69
Page 72
Specifications
General
Frequency Ranges: Rx: 0.5-1.8 MHz (BC Band)
1.8-16 MHz (SW Band)
48-59 MHz (50 MHz HAM)
59-108 MHz (FM)
108-137 MHz (Air Band)
137-174 MHz (144 MHz HAM)
174-222 MHz (VHF-TV)
222-420 MHz (ACT1: Action Band 1)
420-470 MHz (430 MHz HAM)
470-729 MHz (UHF-TV)
800-999 MHz (ACT2: Action Band 2, Cellular Blocked)
Tx: 50-54 MHz or 50-52 MHz
144-146 MHz or 144-148 MHz
430-440 MHz or 430-450 MHz
Channel Steps: 5/9/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100 kHz
Frequency Stability: ±5 ppm (–10°C to +60°C)
Repeater Shift (default): ±600 kHz (144 MHz)
±1.6/5.0/7.6 MHz (430 MHz)
Emission Type: F2, F3
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ω
Supply Voltage: Nominal: 7.2 V DC, Negative Ground
Operating: 10-16 V DC, Negative Ground (EXT DC jack)
Current Consumption: 150 mA (Receive)
55 mA (Standby, Saver Off)
25 mA (Standby, Saver On)
700 µA (Auto Power Off)
1.6 A (5 W Tx, 50 MHz)
1.7 A (5 W Tx, 144 MHz)
1.9 A (4.5 W Tx, 430 MHz)
Operating Temperature: –20°C to +60°C
Case Size: 58 (W) x 88 (H) x 27 (D) mm (w/o knob & antenna)
Weight: 255 g
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL70
Page 73
Specifications
Transmitter
RF Power Output: 5 W (@ 13.8 V EXT DC IN)
5W (@ 7.2 V, 50 MHz/144 MHz)
4.5W (@ 7.2 V 430 MHz)
Modulation Type: Variable Reactance
Maximum Deviation: ±5 kHz
Spurious Emission: At least 60 dB below
Microphone Impedance:2 kΩ
Receiver
Circuit Type: Double-Conversion Superheterodyne
Intermediate Frequencies
Sensitivity: 0.5 µV for 10 dB S/N (0.5-16 MHz, AM)
Selectivity: 15 kHz/35 kHz (–6dB/–60dB: N-FM)
AF Output: 400 mW @ 8Ω for 10 % THD (@ 7.2 V DC)
: 1st: 47.25 MHz (N-FM)
45.8 MHz (W-FM)
2nd: 450 kHz (N-FM)
10.7 MHz (W-FM)
0.9 µV for 12 dB SINAD (76-108MHz/174-222MHz, W-FM)
3 µV for 12 dB SINAD (470-540MHz/630-729MHz, W-FM)
0.16 µV for 12 dB SINAD (50-54 MHz/144-148 MHz)
0.18 µV for 12 dB SINAD (430-450 MHz, N-FM)
Specifications are subject to change without notice, and are guaranteed within amateur
bands only.
Frequency ranges, channel steps, and repeater shift vary according to transceiver version; check with your dealer.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL 71
Page 74
Installation of the SU-1
Make sure that the transceiver is off. Remove the hard or soft case, if used.
Remove the battery pack.
Locate the connector for the SU-1 under the caution seal in the battery compartment
on the back of the radio, just peel off the caution seal.
Align the connector on the SU-1 with the transceiver’s connector and gently press the
unit into place.
Affix the new (supplied) caution seal, and replace the battery.
Installation is now complete.
Important Note
The Barometric Pressure/Altitude features of the optional SU-1 are designed to be
supplemental aids for the information of the user, and are not intended to be a
substitute for accurate, calibrated Barometer or Altimeter devices used for navigation critical to personal safety.
VX-5R OPERATING MANUAL72
Page 75
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules.
Operation is subject to the condition that this device
does not cause harmful interference.
Page 76
Copyright 2004
VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.
All rights reserved.
Printed in Japan
No portion of this manual
may be reproduced
without the permission of
VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.
0308q-fY
E12691008
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