[BAND(UP)]

OPERATION

Hi! I’m R.F. Radio, and I’m here to guide you through the fine points of the setup and use of your new FT-857. 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 rig. Now. . .let’s get operating!

TURNING THE TRANSCEIVER ON AND OFF

rTo turn the transceiver on, press and hold in the POWER switch for one second.

rTo turn the transceiver off, again press and hold in the POWER switch for one second.

POWER

OPERATING BAND SELECTION

This transceiver covers an incredibly wide frequency range, over which a number of differ- ent operating modes are used. Therefore, this transceiver’s frequency coverage has been divided into different operating bands, each of with has its own pre-set frequency steps and operating modes. You can change the channel steps and operating mode once you get started, of course, per the next section.

To change the frequency band, press either the

[ BAND( DWN)]

 

[BAND(DWN)] or [BAND(UP)] key to move to the

 

next lower or higher operating band, respectively.

 

VFOa and VFOb are independent VFOs, so they may be set to different bands. See the

“Stacked VFO System” discussion on page 37 for details.

MODE SELECTION

Press either the [MODE(t)] or [MODE(u)] key to move among the eight settings for the operating modes, respectively.

..... LSB ó USB ó CW ó CWR ó AM ó FM ó DIG ó PKT ó LSB .....

where “CWR” is “CW-Reverse,” using the opposite [MODE()] [()MODE] sideband from the “default” BFO injection sideband

(in most cases, the default injection sideband is on the “USB” side); “DIG” is an AFSK-based Digital mode, set up per Menu Mode No-038[DIG MODE]; and “PKT” represents either 1200 or 9600 bps FM packet.

You can set VFOa and VFOb to different modes in the same band, allowing you to have a “Phone” VFO and a “CW” VFO, for example.

34

FT-857 Operating Manual

Page 35 Page 37
Page 36
Image 36
Vertex Standard FT-857 manual Operation, Turning the Transceiver on and OFF, Operating Band Selection, Mode Selection
Page 35 Page 37

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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