INSTALLATION

LINEAR AMPLIFIER INTERFACING

The FT-857provides the switching and drive-control lines required for easy interfacing to most all commonly-available amplifiers sold today.

These include:

rThe Antenna Jacks (“HF/50MHz” and “144/430MHz”);

rA T/R control line (open circuit on RX, closure to ground on TX); and

rA negative-going ALC jack (control voltage range: 0V to –4V DC).

rWhen interfacing to the VL-1000Solid State 1 KW Linear Amplifier, the optional CT- 58 Interface Cable provides for easy interconnection (requires that the Menu Mode No- 020 [CAT/LIN/TUN] setting changes to “LINEAR”).

The rear-panel CAT/LINEAR jack is an 8-pin, miniature DIN type, with the “TX GND” pin providing a closure to ground on transmit, for T/R control of your linear amplifier. The ACC jack is a miniature stereo type, with external ALC input capability on the tip connection. The main shaft is the ground return. The ring connection of the ACC jack, when closed to ground, places the FT-857 into the transmit mode, and sends a steady CW carrier, for amplifier (or antenna tuner) adjustment purposes.

Note that some amplifiers, particularly VHF or UHF “brick” amplifiers, offer two methods of T/R switching: application of +13V or a closure to ground.

Be sure to configure your amplifier so that it switches via a closure to ground, as provided by your FT-857’s CAT/LINEAR jack (“TX GND” pin). Alternatively, many of these am- plifiers use “RF Sensing” to control their relays; if yours is in this category, you may then use

the T/R control line from the “TX GND” pin

 

 

MHzAntenna

of the CAT/LINEAR jack for control of your

Antenna

Antenna

HF linear amplifier, and RF sensing for your

To HF

To HF

To 50

VHF or UHF amplifier.

 

 

 

/ 430 MHz Antenna

ANT 1

ANT 2

ANT 3

VL-1000

144

ANT 1

 

To

 

REMOTE

 

ON

 

 

OFF

 

ANT 2

BAND DATA 1

1

INPUT

INPUT 1

PTT 1

PTT 2

INPUT 2

ALC 1

CONTROL

ALC 2

DC48V IN

/LINEAR

CT-58 BAND DATA Cable

CAT

 

BAND DATA 2

BAND-DATA 1

 

GND

 

 

ALC 1

GND

DC 48V IN

CONTROL

CT-58 ALC Cable

16

FT-857 Operating Manual

Page 17 Page 19
Page 18
Image 18
Vertex Standard FT-857 manual Linear Amplifier Interfacing, VHF or UHF amplifier
Page 17 Page 19

FT-857 specifications

The Vertex Standard FT-857 is a compact and versatile all-mode transceiver that has become popular among amateur radio operators since its introduction. With its ability to operate in VHF, UHF, and HF bands, the FT-857 caters to a diverse range of communication preferences and provides exceptional performance for both mobile and base station applications.

One of the key features of the FT-857 is its coverage of a broad frequency range, spanning from 160 meters to 2 meters and covering the 70 cm band. This wide frequency coverage allows amateur operators to communicate with fellow enthusiasts across various bands, ensuring versatility in operational environments. The FT-857 offers an output power of up to 100 watts on HF and 50 watts on VHF/UHF, providing sufficient power for effective communication, whether in local or distant contacts.

Another distinctive characteristic of the FT-857 is its all-mode capability. It supports various modes of operation, including SSB, CW, AM, and FM, making it suitable for different operating styles and preferences. The inclusion of advanced digital signal processing (DSP) technology enhances audio clarity and offers noise reduction features, which are crucial in crowded bands. This DSP capability also aids in improving signal quality and overall communication experience.

Portability is a significant advantage of the FT-857. Its compact size and lightweight design make it an excellent choice for field operations and portable setups. Additionally, the transceiver is well-equipped with features such as built-in memory channels, allowing users to save and quickly access frequently used frequencies. The FT-857 also includes a built-in automatic antenna tuner, which makes it easier for operators to set up and optimize their antenna configurations without requiring additional external devices.

The FT-857 is designed with user-friendly controls and a clear LCD display, enabling operators to quickly adjust settings and monitor communication details without confusion. The visibility of the display is especially vital for use in different lighting conditions, ensuring that users can operate efficiently whether in bright sunlight or low light conditions.

In summary, the Vertex Standard FT-857 is a highly capable, compact transceiver that offers an effective solution for amateur radio communication. With its all-band, all-mode capabilities, robust DSP technology, and user-friendly design, the FT-857 remains a popular choice for both enthusiasts and professionals alike, facilitating engaging communication experiences across multiple bands and modes.
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