DCS CODE
023 025 026 031 032 036 043 047 051 053
054 065 071 072 073 074 114 115 116 122
125 131 132 134 143 145 152 155 156 162
165 172 174 205 212 223 225 226 243 244
245 246 251 252 255 261 263 265 266 271
274 306 311 315 325 331 332 343 346 351
356 364 365 371 411 412 413 423 431 432
445 446 452 454 455 462 464 465 466 503
506 516 523 526 532 546 565 606 612 624
627 631 632 654 662 664 703 712 723 731
732 734 743 754 – – – – – –

TRANSMITTER OPERATION

FM TRANSMISSION

DCS Operation

Another form of tone access control is Digital Code Squelch, or DCS. It is a newer, more advanced tone system that is less susceptible to false triggering than CTCSS. A DCS En- coder/Decoder is built into your transceiver, and operation is very similar to that described above for CTCSS.

1.Press the [FUNC] key momentarily, then rotate the SELECT knob, as needed, until Multi Function Row “e” [TON, – – , TDCH] appears on the display.

2.Press the [A](TON) key four times to activate the DCS Encoder/Decoder (the “DCS” icon will appear on the display). The receiver will remain muted until a matching DCS

code is received on an incoming signal.

3. Press and hold in the [B] key for one sec- ond. This instantly recalls Menu Mode No- 033 [DCS CODE].

4. Rotate the DIAL to select the desired DCS code, then press and hold in the [FUNC] key for one second to save new setting and exit to normal operation.

5. Press the [A](TON) key once to cancel DCS operation (the “DCS” icon will disappear).

DCS Search Scanning

In operating situations where you don’t know the DCS code being used by another station, you can command the radio to listen to the incoming signal and scan in search of the code being used.

To scan for the DCS code in use:

1.Press the [FUNC] key momentarily, then rotate the SELECT knob, as needed, until Multi Function Row “e” [TON, – – , TDCH] appears on the display.

2.Press the [A](TON) key to activate DCS (the “DCS” icon will appear on the display).

3.Press the [C](TDCH) key to start scanning for the incoming DCS code.

4.When the radio detects the correct DCS code, it will halt on that code, and audio will be allowed to pass.

5.The DCS code detected will be stored as the “current” code, so it may be used for memory storage purposes, and you may now exit to normal operation.

FT-857 Operating Manual

59

Page 61
Image 61
Vertex Standard FT-857 manual DCS Operation, DCS Search Scanning

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.