Yaesu VX series

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The Yaesu VX series is a line of two sequences of compact amateur radio handheld transceivers produced by Yaesu. There is a line of ultra-compact lower-power dual-band (2m and 70 cm) tranceivers that started with the VX-1R and was later updated with the VX-2R and VX-3R. There is also a line of 5W tri-band transvceivers that started with the VX-5R and was later updated with the VX-6R, VX-7R and VX-8R.

Contents

[edit] Yaesu VX-1R

VX-1R

The Yaesu VX-1R is a micro-miniature multiband FM transceiver with extensive receiver frequency coverage intended for use in licensed "Ham" or amateur radio operations. It is purportedly the smallest UHF/VHF hand-held transceiver available, with dimensions of 47x81x25 mm. It will receive and transmit in both the 2 meter band (144-148 MHz) and the 70 cm band (430-450 MHz). The VX-1R provides receive coverage of the AM and FM broadcast bands, VHF and UHF TV bands, the VHF AM aircraft band, and a wide range of commercial and public safety frequencies.

[edit] Feature overview

[edit] Yaesu VX-2R

Yaesu VX-2E

The VX-2R was an ultra-compact amateur radio transceiver produced by Yaesu between 2003 and 2007. Its small size and performance are well-suited for use in a tiny APRS station or combined with a small computer and TNC a tiny packet station.

The VX-2R is known as the VX-2E in European markets.

The Yaesu VX-1R was superseded by the VX-2R and is the model that preceded the Yaesu VX-3R.

[edit] Feature overview[1]

  • FM transmit on 2 Meters (1.5 watts) and 70 centimeters (1 watt) on battery power
  • FM transmit on 2 Meters (3 watts) and 70 centimeters (2 watt) using external DC power
  • Wide-band receive coverage, from 500 kHz through 999 MHz
  • Receive coverage in AM, NFM, and WFM
  • Channel counter for finding nearby frequencies in use
  • User-selectable 10 dB attenuator
  • Ultra-compact size
  • CTCSS and DCS decode/encode
  • Approximately 900 memory channels, with up to 20 banks
  • PC-programmable and radio-to-radio cloning
  • RF Squelch capability
  • Selectable deviation (wide/narrow)
  • WiRES -- Internet repeater linking
  • DTMF transmission and memories.
  • ARTS range transponder for watching communications between two ARTS-equipped radios

[edit] Criticism

In user reviews[2] several reviewers comment on, among other things, the performance of the supplied antenna, the belt clip, and the push-to-talk switch. Reviewers claim that the supplied antenna is mediocre in the ham bands. A longer antenna is recommended for longer-range communications. Another common complaint[2] is that the push-to-talk switch is hard to press, and that the supplied belt clip is regarded[2] as easily broken, leading many users to use alternative belt clips.

[edit] Battery

The standard battery will last about two days (single frequency receive) if not scanning. If scanning, the receive time falls to a few hours. At 1.5 Watts out, talk time is only about 20 minutes with a fully charged battery.

Replacement batteries are inexpensive, especially as they are based on the Fuji NP60 camera battery. The lower (100 mW) power setting is adequate for repeaters out to 20 miles or so, and allows longer talk time. This is a highly regarded HT based on its performance-to-size ratio.

[edit] Modification

The VX-2 is not difficult to modify. Because the radio uses software-based jumpers, it is not necessary to open the radio up to perform most modification. A MARS / CAP modification can be performed, expanding transmit coverage outside of ham bands slightly; it is also possible to perform a freeband modification to the radio without any hardware modifications. Although in most cases illegal based on Federal Communications Commission rules, the freeband modification opens transmit coverage significantly, allowing use on business band and FRS bands, along with several lesser-used frequency bands.

[edit] VX-3R

The VX-3R is an ultra-compact dual band FM transceiver with extensive receive frequency coverage. Besides 144 and 430 MHz transceive operation, the VX-3R provides receive coverage of the AM(MF) and FM broadcast bands, HF Shortwave Bands, VHF and UHF TV bands, the VHF AM aircraft band, and a wide range of commercial and public safety frequencies. The transmitter section provides 1.5 watts of power output on the 144 MHz bands with the supplied FNB-82LI battery pack and 1 watts output on 430 MHz.

The VX-3R is the successor to Yaesu's previous models in the ultra-compact dualband handheld FM transceiver segment, the VX-1R and the VX-2R.

[edit] Feature overview

  • FM transmit on 2 Meters and 70 centimeters at up to 3 watts on 2m and 2 watts on 70 cm with a 6VDC external source (1.5 watts on 2m and 1 watt on 70 cm when using the internal battery)
  • Wide-band receive coverage, from 500 kHz up to 999 MHz (cellular blocked on USA version)
  • Receive coverage in AM, NFM, WFM and FM radio
  • PC-programmable
  • RF Squelch capability
  • Selectable deviation (wide/narrow)
  • 1000mAh Lithium-Ion battery
  • Internal Ferrite Bar Antenna for AM Broadcast Reception
  • Supports DCS and CTCSS Tones
  • Stereo decoding for FM Broadcast reception
  • Stereo Headphone connector
  • Ability to use headphones as antenna for FM Broadcast reception

[edit] Modifications

The VX-3R can be modified to transmit on MARS and CAP frequencies through hardware techniques, however this radio does not meet NTIA standards for either MARS or CAP. The hardware modification requires the removal of an SMD located under the battery pack. This radio is also The preferred radio of [3] and as such is the subject of some unusual and exciting mods. The service manual and schematic may be found here. http://www.radioamateur.eu/schemi/Vertex_VX3R_serv.pdf

[edit] VX-5R

The VX-5R is an ultra-compact amateur radio transceiver produced by Yaesu.

[edit] Feature overview

Yaesu VX-5R
  • FM transmit on 6 Meters, 2 Meters and 70 centimeters (5 watt @ 13.8V EXT DC IN), (5 watt @ 7.2V 50 MHz/144 MHz), (4.5 watt @ 7.2V 430 MHz)
  • Wide-band receive coverage, from 500 kHz up to 999 MHz
  • Receive coverage in AM, NFM, and WFM
  • Experimental channel counter function for finding nearby frequncies
  • User-selectable 10 dB attenuator
  • Ultra-compact size
  • CTCSS and DCS decode/encode
  • PC-programmable and radio-to-radio cloning
  • RF Squelch capability
  • Selectable deviation (wide/narrow)

[edit] Specifications

(Source: Yaesu)

  • Receiver Frequency Range:
    • 0.5 – 16 MHz
    • 48 – 729 MHz
    • 800 – 999 MHz (Cellular blocked)
  • 6M TX: 5 Watts
  • 2M TX: 5 Watts
  • 440Mhz TX: 4.5 Watts
  • Emission Types: F2 / F3
  • Number of Simultaneous bands: 1
  • Priority Channel: 1 – Any of 220
  • Backlight: Red
  • Memory Channels: 220
  • Alpha Tags in display: 8 Characters
  • Battery: 1100ma Li-Ion (superseded by current 1500ma Li-ion)
  • Battery Life (avg): 6 to 12 Hours
  • Alkaline Pack: 2 AA Cells
  • Computer Programmable with ADMS/EVE/VX5 Commander
  • Antenna Connector: SMA
  • Weight: 9.0 oz
  • Charge time: 6 Hrs
  • Color: Black, Silver
  • Audio Output: 400 mW @ 8ohm

[edit] VX-6R

A Yaesu VX-6R tuned to a local 2m repeater

The Yaesu VX-6R is a triple band handheld amateur radio transceiver with extensive receive coverage, and leading-edge features. The radio is designed to operate in extreme conditions, and is sealed at all openings to permit underwater submersion up to 1 meter (3 feet) for 30 minutes. A demo model at Dayton Hamvention was held underwater for 8 hours at 1 meter depth, under power, without adverse effects. Available accessories include remote microphones, earphones.

Category Amateur Radio
Class Hand-Held
Bands VHF: 1.25m (USA only), 2m

UHF: 70cm
Rx AM/FM:0.500-999.998 MHz (USA cellular blocked)

AM/FM:0.504-999.998 MHz (Exp version)
Tx FM:144-148 MHz, Pwr:0.3W, 1.0W, 2.5W, 5.0W

FM: 222-225 MHz, Pwr: 0.2W, 0.5W, 1.0W, 1.5W
FM:430-450 MHz, Pwr:0.3W, 1.0W, 2.5W, 5.0W
Power 7.4 VDC (internal Li battery), 5-16 VDC (external), Negative Ground (Outside), Inside Pin is (+)
Dimensions (HxWxD) 89 x 58 x 29 mm
Weight 277 g (including battery)
First released 2005

[edit] Features

  • 900 Memories
  • AM/FM/Wide-FM broadcast band reception
  • Wideband receiver, including full coverage of shortwave bands
  • CTCSS/DCS tone squelch
  • European Tone Burst
  • ARTS-Automatic In-Range Transponder
  • Adjustable Backlit Keypad & LCD
  • Internet Key for Access to WIRES
  • DTMF encoder for control of remote systems and telephone dialing
  • Channel counter function for locating frequency of nearby transmitter

[edit] Accessories

With the shipped box, Yaesu VX-6R should come with the following accessories,

  • VX-6R, Transceiver
  • FNB-80LI, 7.4V, 1400 mAh Lithium ion battery pack
  • NC-72B/C, 5-Hour Battery Charger
  • YHA-67, Antenna
  • Belt Clip & Hand Strap
  • Operating Manual
  • Warranty Card

There is an optional barometric module, SU-1, that provides both barometric pressure and altitude measuring capability, perfect for recreational use such as hiking or mountain climbing. The VX-6R may even be programmed to monitor pressure and temperature or temperature and altitude while it is turned off! This user-installed accessory mounts under the battery compartment.

[edit] Some specifications

Frequency Range of Transmission (USA Version):

  • 222 - 225 MHz – 1.5W Max
  • 144 - 148 MHz – 5.0W Max
  • 420 - 450 MHz – 5.0W Max

Each band (except 222 MHz and 50 MHz in Asia exported version) can be switched between 5W, 2.5W, 1.0W, and 500 mW.

[edit] Technical description

[edit] Faults & Problems

A bug has been found, as the CTCSS decode may not work properly when the VX-6R is operating with external power.

[edit] Interesting information

  • For Asia version only, The VX-6R can transmit a 1.5W FM carrier on the six meter band. It is necessary to use an external antenna tuned to the lower part of the six meter band for this feature. (2-sectional antenna provided in Asia exported version)
  • Asia versions are marked as (B3) versions. Open-band, fully modded for wide-band tx/rx

[edit] VX-7R

YAESU VX-7RB

The Yaesu VX-7R is a handheld transceiver for use on the amateur radio bands. It is a "quad band" transceiver, capable of transmitting and receiving on the 50 MHz (6 meters), 220 MHz (1.25 meters), 144 MHz (2 meters) & 440 MHz (70 centimeters) bands. It also features a general-coverage receiver, meaning it can operate as a receiver on many additional bands. The radio's magnesium alloy case is available in black anodized or silver (clear anodized). The model number suffix "B" or "S" denotes which color, black or silver respectively.

The radio is designed to operate in extreme conditions. It is designed to be shock-proof, and is sealed against water and chemicals, making it well-suited for emergency-services duty. Available accessories include remote microphones, earphones, barometric pressure sensor module, and adapters for digital communications modes.

The VX-7R can be programmed directly from the integral keyboard, or using a computer, linked by a cable which connects to the speaker/microphone connector. There are several free and inexpensive programs available with which to modify settings.

Like other multiband handheld transceivers, the VX-7R can be used for amateur satellite communications, which typically use uplink and downlink frequencies on separate amateur bands. The VX-7R is not capable of Full-duplex satellite operation like some amateur transceivers, but instead operates as a dual-simplex transceiver, meaning each band carries information in one direction only. In other words, one cannot hear one's own voice returning from the satellite during a transmission.

A unique feature of the VX-7R is its ability to transmit in AM at a 1 watt carrier power on the six meter band. This mode of operation allows the VX-7R to be used to drive a Transverter or for QRP DXing, where a weak FM signal would not be able to overpower natural or man-made interference.

The DTMF memories allow strings of DTMF tones to be stored, allowing it to be conveniently used in a "remote-base" system with a radio such as the TS-2000.

[edit] Feature overview

  • 900 Memories
  • Wideband receiver, 500 kHz - 999 MHz (the US version has cellular telephone frequencies blocked)
  • CTCSS/DCS tone squelch
  • European Tone Burst
  • True user-selectable Dual Receive
  • ARTS-Automatic In-Range Transponder
  • Backlit Keypad & LCD
  • Internet Key for Access to WIRES
  • DTMF encoder for control of remote systems and telephone dialing
  • Sensors for temperature, voltage (internal battery or external power source), real-time clock, and barometric pressure (optional module)
  • User-definable icon images for bands, S-Meter glyphs and font characters
  • Waterproof (3 foot depth for 30 minutes)
  • 132 x 64 pixel back-lit dot matrix display

[edit] Selected specifications

Receive:

Specified Actual (U.S. Version) VFO Availability
0.5 - 1.8 MHz (BC Band) 0.510 - 1.795 MHz Main
1.8 - 30 MHz (Shortwave band) 1.800 - 29.995 MHz Main
30 - 59 MHz (6-meter band Amateur) 30.000 - 58.995 MHz Main, Sub 50.000-53.995 MHz
59 - 108 MHz (FM/TV-VHF Lo) 59.000 - 107.900 MHz Main
108 - 137 MHz (Airband) 108.000 - 136.975 MHz Main
137 - 174 MHz (2-meter band Amateur) 137.000 - 173.995 MHz Main and Sub
174 - 222 MHz (TV-VHF Hi) 174.000 - 221.995 MHz Main
222 - 225 MHz (1.25-meter band Amateur) 222.000-224.995 MHz Main
225 - 420 MHz (ACT1: Action Band 1) 225.000 - 419.995 MHz Main
420 - 470 MHz (70-centimeter band Amateur) 420.000 - 469.995 MHz Main and Sub
470 - 729 MHz (TV-UHF) 470.000 - 728.995, 758.000-773.995 MHz Main
800 - 999 MHz (cell-blocked) 803.000 - 823.995, 849.000 - 868.995, 894.000 - 914.995, 944.000 - 959.995, 989.000 - 998.995 MHz Main

Frequency Range Transmit:

  • 50 - 54 MHz – 5 Watts FM / 1 Watt AM
  • 144 - 148 MHz – 5 Watts
  • 222 - 225 MHz – 300 mW (US version)
  • 430 - 450 MHz – 5 Watts

Output power on each band (except 222 MHz) can be reduced from 5 watts to 2.5 watts, 1 watt, or 50 milliwatts (on 222 MHz can be reduced from 300 milliwatts to 50 milliwatts). Reducing output power allows the transceiver to be used over shorter communication distances for longer battery life.

[edit] Characteristics

The VX-7R can transmit in AM at a 1 watt carrier power on the six meter band. This mode of operation allows the VX-7R to be used to drive a combination of bands functions reasonably well. The "Sub" VFO is limited to frequencies around the 50, 144, and 440 amateur bands, while the "Main" VFO has a much broader frequency coverage.

[edit] Modifications

The VX-7R can be modified to transmit on MARS and CAP frequencies through both hardware and software techniques, however this radio does not meet NTIA standards for either MARS or CAP. The hardware modification requires the removal of small solder contacts located under the battery pack. The software modification can be made with the VX Commander software through a data interface cable. Both modifications obtain the same result, except that the software modification will be disabled if the radio is hard-reset.

Soon after the release of the VX-7R a design flaw was discovered related to the radio's waterproof housing. Not only was the radio water-tight, but it was also air-tight. This would result in a pressure differential between the inside of the radio and the atmosphere, caused by changes in barometric pressure or altitude. This pressure differential would prevent proper oscillation of the speaker diaphragm, resulting in reduced and muffled audio output. Yaesu remedied the problem by adding a small valve under the bottom left rubber armor, which allows equalization of the interior pressure with the atmosphere. The design change was reflected in all new radios produced from that point on, and any older radios sent in for repair are retrofitted with this modification.

Some VX-7R owners complained of poor microphone sensitivity, which resulted in low audio levels on transmit. A crude modification was developed by end-users to solve the problem, at the expense of sacrificing the radio's water-proof capability. If small holes are pierced in the rubber seal covering the microphone diaphragm, then sound waves can better reach the microphone diaphragm, resulting in better audio sensitivity.[4]

[edit] VX-8R 

 This section may need to be wikified to meet Wikipedia's quality standards. Please help by adding relevant internal links, or by improving the article's layout. (December 2011)

The Yaesu VX-8R is a handheld transceiver for use on the amateur radio bands. It is a "quad band" transceiver.

The radio is designed to operate in extreme conditions. It is designed to be shock-proof, and is sealed against water and chemicals, making it well-suited for emergency-services duty. Available accessories include remote microphones, earphones, barometric pressure sensor module, and adapters for digital communications modes.

The VX-8R can be programmed directly from the integral keyboard, or using a computer, linked by a cable which connects to the speaker/microphone connector. There are several free and inexpensive programs available with which to modify settings.

The Yaesu VX-8R HT provides a full 5 watts FM on 50/144/430 MHz plus 1.5 watts on 222 MHz. It supports Bluetooth® hands-free operation with the optional BU-1 and BH-1 or BH-2 accessories. There is also an optional GPS unit and antenna with loads of features. This radio supports APRS 1200/9600 bit/s data communication (B band only). Like the VX7R, the VX8R is submersible and meets IPX57 specifications (3 feet for minimum of 30 minutes). A powerful 7.4 V 1100 mAh Lithium Ion battery is included. This HT is small, intuitive to operate only 2.36 x 3.74 x 0.92 inches (thinner than VX-7R). It supports simultaneous independent 2-signal dual receive function with both V + V or U + U. It has weather band receive with Weather Alert. A barometric sensor is included. You can even operate Amateur radio while receiving FM broadcasts! The receive coverage is wider than VX-7R, with an independent AM/FM broadcast receiver circuit. The dot matrix LCD display provides Memory tag up to a maximum of 16 characters. You even get a high-resolution Spectrum Analyzer with ±60 channels indication with wave monitoring of received/modulated signal! And DCS and CTCSS encode and decode is standard. The VX-8R has been replaced by the VX-8DR.

The Yaesu VX-8DR is an APRS® enhanced version of the popular VX8R. Key additional features of the VX-8DR include:

  • Smart Beaconing™ Function.
  • Station List memories has increased from 40 to 50.
  • The number of APRS® Message Memories has increased from 20 to 30.
  • DIGI-PATH route indication function.
  • Heads up compass display to the GPS screen.
  • The Message received LED flashing rate is selectable.
  • The number of DIGI-PATH route settings has increased from 1 to 7.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Yaesu VX-2 user manual
  2. ^ a b c Several reviews of the VX-2R on eHam.net reporting on, among other things, performance of the supplied antenna, comments on the belt clip, and the push-to-talk switch
  3. ^ Hactivists
  4. ^ Volz, Michael. "Yaesu VX-7 Low Microphone Audio". http://www.mvolz.info/radio/vx7/. Retrieved October 12, 2010. 
  • CQ ham radio, ed. VXシリーズ遊び方ガイド [VX Series Guide]. CQ Publications. ISBN 4789815072. 
  • Fort v. Yaesu - Santa Monica Superior Court, Santa Monica, CA - settled out of court.
  • Product Review - QST Compares: Dual-band Hand-Held Transceivers - April 1998 QST Magazine © ARRL

[edit] External links

 This article's use of external links may not follow Wikipedia's policies or guidelines. Please improve this article by removing excessive or inappropriate external links, and converting useful links where appropriate into footnote references. (December 2011)
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