Contents

Introduction	1
Specifications	2
Accessories & Options	4
Installation	5
Preliminary Inspection	5
Installation Tips	5
Safety Information	6
Installing the Microphone and Front Panel	7
Power connections	8
Grounding	10
Mobile Station Grounding	10
Base Station Earth Grounding	11
Antenna Considerations	12
Mobile Antenna Installations	12
Base Station Antenna Installations	13
RF Field Exposure	14
Electromagnetic Compatibility	15
Heat and Ventilation	15
Linear Amplifier Interfacing	16
CW Key/Keyer Connections	17
Receiver Accessories (Tape Recorder etc.)	18
Adjusting the Front Feet	18
Front Panel Control & Switches	20
Multi Function Key Detail	24
Rear panel Connectors	32
Operation	34
Turning the Transceiver On and Off	34
Operating Band Selection	34
Mode Selection	34
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level	35
Menu Quick Start	35
Adjusting the RF Gain and Squelch	36
Setting the Operating Frequency	36
Changing the Dial Speed	37
Stacked VFO System	37
Receiver Accessories	38
Locking Front Panel Controls	38
Clarifier	39
IF Shift	40
AGC	41
Noise Blanker	41
IPO	42
ATT (Front End Attenuator)	42
DSP Bandpass Filter (DBP)	43
DSP CW Peaking Filter (DBF)	44
DSP Noise Reduction (DNR)	44
DSP Notch Filter (DNF)	45
AM/FM Tuning Dial Operation	45
Automatic Power-Off Feature	46
Transmitter Operation	48
SSB/AM Transmission	48
Basic Setup/Operation	48
VOX Operation	49
AF Speech Processor Operation	50
DSP Microphone Equalizer	51
CW Transmission	52
Operation using Straight Key/External Keying ..Device 52
Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer	54
FM Transmission	56
Basic Setup/Operation	56
Repeater Operation	57
Tone Search Scanning	58

DCS Operation	59
DCS Search Scanning	59
Split Tone Operation	60
ARTSTM Operation	61
CW Identifier Setup	62
Digital Mode Operation (SSB-Based AFSK)	63
RTTY (Radio Tele Type) Operation	63
PSK31 Operation	64
“User” Defined Digital Modes	64
Packet (1200/9600 bps FM) Operation	65
WeatherFax Monitoring	66
Time-Out Timer	67
Split Frequency Operation	67
ATAS-100/-120 Operation	68
Automatic Tuning	68
Manual Tuning	69
ATAS-100/-120 Operating Tips	70
FC-30 Automatic Antenna Tuner Operation	71
Antenna Tuner Memory System	72
Memory Operation	73
QMB (Quick Memory Bank) Channels	73
Memory Operation on “Regular” Memory Channel	74
Normal Memory Storage	74
Split-Frequency Memory Storage	75
Memory Channel Recall	76
Masking (“Hiding”) a Memory	77
Memory Operation on “HOME” Channel Memories	78
Labeling Memories after Programming Channel Data	79
Spectrum Scope Monitor	80
Smart SearchTM	81
Scanning Operation	82
Scanning Features	82
Scanning Operation	82
Scan-Resume Choices	83
Scan Skip Programming (Memory Mode only) ..	83
“Priority Channel” Scanning	85
Programmable Memory Scan (PMS) Operation	86
Dual Watch Operation	87
Miscellaneous Settings	88
Operation on Alaska Emergency Frequency: 5167.5 kHz ... 88
CW Training Feature	89
Programming the Panel Key Functions	89
Beacon Feature	90
Beacon Text Storage	90
Beacon Text Sending (On the Air)	91
Display Customization	92
Display Lamp Mode	92
Display Contrast	92
Display Dimmer	92
Display Color	93
Menu Operation	94
CAT (Computer Aided Transceiver) Operation . 113
Power-On Microprocessor Reset Procedures	117
Cloning	118
Installation Optional Accessories	119
Optional Digital Signal Processing Unit DSP-2	119
Optional Filters:YF-122S, YF-122C, and YF-122CN ....	120
Optional High Stability Reference Oscillator TCXO-9 ..	121
Appendix	122
Setup of Memories
for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) FM Satellite Operation	122
MH-59A8JRemote Microphone	125

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.

Vertex Standard FT-857 manual Contents

Models: FT-857

FT-857 specifications