The YAESU FT DX Series, born decades ago, soon grew through such best-sellers as the FT DX 401 to represent the very best in high-power DX-ready base stations, and the envy of those unfortunate few who didnt own one. The return of the FT DX series brings back devastating output power, along with the most advanced features and specs, answering the calls for the ultimate DX base station. Throughout the past 50 years, YAESU has poured know-how and passion into our leadership role in the development and perfection of HF SSB technology. This radio is born out of this tradition.
200 W Custom-Configurable Version
Two Pairs of Meters, plus LCD Window VRF Input Preselector Filter Three Key Jacks, and Dual Headphone Jacks 50 V /12 A Internal Switching Regulator Power Supply

200 W Version

Large TFT, Data Management Unit and Flash Memory Slot Built In, Main/Sub Receiver VRF, plus Full Dual Receive Capability Three -Tuning Modules for 160 - 20 M 50 V /12 A Internal Switching Regulator Power Supply
400 W Special Order Version
Two Pairs of Meters, plus LCD Window; Data Management Unit and Flash Memory Slot Built In Main/Sub Receiver VRF, plus Full Dual Receive Capability External 50 V/24 A Switching Regulator Power Supply and Speaker with Audio Filters
Customizing Optional Components
For all versions, you may select the display color at the time of ordering. Additional installation fee applies for installation of different color at later date.
Light Blue Display option (Order via WDXC)

Light Blue

Umber Orange Display option (Order via WDXC)

Umber Orange

FT DX 9000 Contest The joy of creating the most advanced equipment. let it expand your spirit of exploration. That's why, for contest and DX-pedition use, we've developed the FT DX 9000 Contest.
Extra Key and Headphone Jacks
In the FT DX 9000 Contest version, we have optimized the front panel for flexibility in single- or multi-operator station setups. An additional Key jack (for a total of three, two on the front panel) allows multiple keyer paddles to be connected, so two operators can respond to different calling stations. And an additional headphone jack makes it easy for a main operator and a logger to sit side-by-side and work a contest or DXpedition pile-up at high rate!
System Customization Diagrams

TFT Display Unit

TFT-9000
Installation of the TFT Unit requires the concurrent installation of the Data Management Unit. Installation of the TFT Unit after the date of original transceiver purchase involves an installation fee; contact WDXC for details.
Data Management Unit Memory Card (Includes 64 MB Compact Flash

and Card Slot)

External Display (After-market item,

not supplied)

DMU-9000

800 x 600 SVGA

PS2 or USB (After-marketkeyboard supplied) item, not
VRF (Variable RF Filter) 1.MHz Preselector Module Built In Use Your Creativity to Build Your System. Your imagination evolves, and your station follows.
* The Contest version can become the equivalent of the "D" version by installation of all options. * Selection of Umber or Light Blue display color is made at time of transceiver purchase. Modification of display color at later date incurs a modification fee. * Installation of TFT Unit requires concurrent installation of Data Management Unit (DMU-9000). * Installation of TFT Unit after date of original transceiver purchase incurs a modification fee.

VRF Unit VRF-9000

Dual Receive Unit RXU-9000
RF -Tuning Unit A RF -Tuning Unit B RF -Tuning Unit C MTU-160 MTU-80/40 MTU-30/20
160 M Band 80/60 M Bands 30/20 M Bands

FT DX 9000D

The Ultimate, "All Options Installed" Version. With three -Tune modules, for the pinnacle of receiver performance!
Three -Tuning Modules Factory Installed
The D version is equipped, at the factory, with all three -Tuning modules, covering the 160, 80/40, and 30/20 meter Amateur bands.
The Spectrum Scope's bandwidth (span) may be programmed, by the operator, to 25 kHz, 50 kHz, 100 kHz 250 kHz, 500 kHz, 1 MHz, or 2.5 MHz, with the sweep speed remaining constant. Resolution is automatically programmed according to the span width: for 250 kHz and lower, the resolution is 1 kHz, while for wider spans the resolution is set to 6 kHz.

Band-Swept SWR Indication
The SWR graph plots the SWR of your antenna system, as seen at the transceiver's Antenna jack, as you make transmissions across the band.

World Clock Feature

Large, Easy-to-Read TFT Display
The wide-screen 6.5" TFT display is an 800 x 400 dot configuration, for high resolution; the FT DX 9000D is also configured with a rear-panel port allowing connection of an external display.

Log Book Feature

The Logbook feature allows you to connect your own keyboard to the read panel of the transceiver, and then utilize the onboard Logbook function for station recordkeeping.
A unique innovation adopted in the FT DX 9000D's Spectrum Scope is the LBWS (Limited Band Width Sweep) feature, which allows you to engage a high-speed sweep of a particular segment (50 %, 30 %, or 10 %) of the full span. If you select 50 % of the full bandwidth, the sweep speed is doubled; if you select 30 %, the sweep speed is tripled, and at 10 % the sweep speed is ten times faster!

SPAN: 25 kHz

SPAN: 2.5 MHz

Memory Channel List

The Memory Channel List provides details of the 5-Group, 99-Channel memory system. The frequency, mode, and any programmed identification label will all be displayed, and since all the channels are listed, it is easy to look across them quickly so as to locate a particular memory channel of interest.

LBWS Display

LBWS Panadapter, Dual RF Scope
Audio Scope/Oscilloscope Feature
LBWS Features Variable Bandwidth and Center Frequency
Great Circle Direction-Indicating Map

Single Display

Dual Display

Spectrum Display

Waterfall Display

FT DX 9000MP Accessory

FPS-9000H External Power Supply with Dual Speakers and Audio Filters (Output: 50 V/24 A)
Size (WHD): 9.7"X6.5"X17.2" / 246X165X438mm (w/o knobs)

Rotator Control Feature

KEY1/F1 KEY3/F3 KEY5/F5
Antenna Bearing Indication using Great Circle Map

KEY7/F7

FT DX 9000MP The pinnacle of HF Transceiver performance has been reached in the 400-Watt FT DX 9000MP. You'll know that special feeling from the moment your fingertips touch the dial.
Stable, reliable power output from a PA module without peer.

The final amplifier stage of the FT DX 9000MP utilizes four SD2931 MOS FET devices in a parallel, push-pull configuration, running at 50 volts to obtain the highest power output in a production Amateur Radio transceiver today. Careful crafting of the bias circuit has resulted in low distortion and reliable performance over long hours of operation.
External Power Supply with Dual Speakers and Audio Filters
Function Keys used when using external display.

KEY2/F2

KEY4/F4

KEY6/F6

KEY8/F8
Using a Large External Display from a Personal Computer
When your transceiver has the Data Management Unit installed, but not the internal TFT, you may utilize a large after-market LCD or similar display, if you like, to display the information produced on the TFT. In this case, seven command keys below the meters on the right side may be used for control functions. The FT DX 9000MP has the data management unit installed at the factory.
RF -Tuning Unit A RF -Tuning Unit B RF -Tuning Unit C
MTU-160 MTU-80/40 MTU-30/20

TUNE TUNE

3.5/7M

10/14M

160 M Band

80/40 M Bands

30/20 M Bands
4 x 2SD2931 MOS FET Devices Produce 400 W of Outpot Power

Spectrum Scope Clock Log

Price for TFT Display Unit may be higher if ordered after the time of purchase. Installation fee will apply if TFT is purchased after purchase of original transceiver. Check with WDXC for pricing.

400 W Final Amplifier

(Display appearance may differ slightly from photograph.)

Visibility

From the moment you switch on the power for the first time, your eyes catch only information you need, as if it always has been there. You blend comfortably into the HF world without feeling like you do not belong. Only the necessary information, and only in the right place. This is what we think is superb visibility. Facing this rig, it is a propitious moment in time. As if you were in an aircraft cockpit, the displays are inclined toward your eyes. This is your space, where you can immerse yourself in the sounds of the bands, enjoying the passage of time. The radio created for talking to Mother Nature's wonders: the FT DX 9000. Dual High-Accuracy Analog Meters Superb Visibility, Traditional Layout
Designed for use by long-haul contest operators, the superior front panel layout emphasizes simplicity and clarity of viewing for the most important area on the front panel: the main frequency display above the main tuning dial. The center frequency display is not cluttered with extraneous information; just frequency and TX/RX status are provided, to keep it simple. The FT DX 9000 utilizes custom-designed high-accuracy 3.4 (86 mm) true analog meters, providing excellent visibility due to the wide meter scale and the bright, back-lighted lettering (using 20 long-life white LEDs) on the meter scales. The left meter is a comprehensive TX/RX meter, operating primarily as the S-Meter for the main Receiver. The right meter is always the S-Meter for the Sub Receiver, thus minimizing confusion, and on transmit it serves as an ALC Meter for the transmitter, allowing simultaneous monitoring of ALC along with Power Output, Compression Level, Microphone Input Level, PA Current, or SWR on the left meter.

Among the display options, at the time of purchase, are the normal Umber display or the alternative Light Blue option. Both are outstanding for long hours of operation with minimal fatigue due to eye strain, and the proprietary display design provides outstanding contrast, whichever option you choose. Color modification is available after purchase; the entire display must be changed out in this case.

Indirect Illumination

For ease of nighttime operation, the controls on the front panel are indirectly illuminated, thanks to carefully-positioned lamps in the frame underneath the meters and TFT (depending on model).

Umber Display

Blue Display

Operability

Even the first time you operate the FT DX 9000, you're not searching for a knob you need to turn, but naturally your fingers touch the right location on the front panel; this is the intuitive feeling we have labored to achieve. And the more time you spend with this rig, the more comfortable you'll feel with every aspect of operation. This is superb operability.
Three Large Knobs for Effortless Operation
On the lower right-hand side of the front panel, three large (1.5/39 mm) knobs are provided for several of the most often-used control operations. The AF/RF Gain knobs are high-quality, concentric volume controls with the extreme durability normally found on high-use test equipment. The SHIFT/WIDTH controls utilize a carefully-specified dial tension, so as to ensure both ease and precision in adjustment and stability of the settings.

The Joy of Operating

In the ideal case, you and your transceiver become as one. Besides just being a transmitter for your signal, your rig must be designed with the most important functions immediately available for adjustment. When fleeting opportunities present themselves, the superior operability of the FT DX 9000 lets you seize the moment. Touch the Main Dial, and You Know the FT DX 9000 is Different.
The Main Tuning Dial is a large-diameter (3.2/81 mm) die-cast aluminum dial directly coupled to the magnetic rotary encoder which drives the HRDDS via microprocessor control. Its heavy weight (7 oz./200 g) and quality mounting and construction provide a smooth flywheel effect during operation, ideal for quick cruising up and down a band. The main tuning dial is constructed in two parts, main dial and skirt. When you touch your fingers on main dial, your fingertip feels the air gap between the skirt and main dial. This air gap reduces sweat accumulation on the operators fingertips, enhancing tuning precision during long operating sessions, especially on DX-peditions to hot tropical areas. Ease of operation is further enhanced by the convenient positioning of frequency-determining switches immediately adjacent to the Main Tuning Dial. VFO and Memory selection switches are all located to the right, while the Store and Recall switches for the Quick Memory Bank (QMB) memory registers are easy-to-spot blue switches just to the left of the Main Tuning Dial.

ANT Selector Antenna Switching System Block Diagram
Select by Customized Band
The Custom Selection (CS) key, located below and to the left of the main tuning dial, serves as a hot key to an often-used Menu selection, providing a quick means of returning to a Menu item you use often.
As you tune the dial, youre in a special seat reserved for true HF enthusiasts.
Many important control functions have been brought out of the configuration menu and placed on the front panel, per the requests of active operators worldwide, and theyre grouped in together for instant access. For CW operation, controls such as Pitch, Keyer Speed, CW Delay, and Keyer On/Off are all closely grouped, while for SSB the VOX Gain and Delay, Mic Gain, Processor Level, and Compression Level metering controls are positioned close together. And operations associated with the Sub Receiver are all assembled in a special area on the bottom left-hand side of the panel, so you may use your left hand for feature selection and your right hand for tuning of the Sub Receiver. Both direct frequency entry and one-touch band change are also provided, for efficient QSY.
Keyboard-based Logbook Feature
The rear panel includes convenient USB and PS-2 keyboard terminals, which may be utilized for connection of an aftermarket computer keyboard (not supplied) for entry of data for the onboard Logbook function. The date, time of day, frequency, and mode are entered automatically by the microprocessor, allowing you to save time by entering just the callsign and personal data of the other station!
Smart Memory Card for Data Storage
The Smart Memory (CF) card may be used to store useful information, such as your favorite band setup configuration, as well as look book data, which you can then download to your PC for utilization with aftermarket logging or stationmanagement software.
External Bandpass Filter, etc. BNC Jack BNC Jack RX ANT Jack (M/ UHF Type) Receive-only Antenna
Identical Antenna Dual Receive
On each band, VFO A/B registers retain antenna selection data.
The close-in, multi-signal environment. This is where a truly high-quality radio makes the difference.
The instant the antenna is connected, you hear a gentle rush, but you immediately notice how low the noise level is. Then you begin to observe weak signals that you probably never knew were there. But this was just the starting point for our research and development team for their elite class HF transceiver for the new decade. Not only did they devote attention to measurement data such as BDR (Blocking Dynamic Range), IDR (IMD Dynamic Range), and IP3 (3rd-Order Intercept Point), which all are in the limelight in the modern HF industry, but they also directed special attention on high performance in the difficult close-in multiple-strong-signal environment by determining the optimum gain allocation for each stage, the purity of all local signals, adequate gain in the mixers, and then followed the research up with exhaustive field tests.

Ultra-Strong RF Front End
YAESU's outstanding RF-stage filtering system cuts off strong signals outside the RF filters' passbands. Then it is the important task of the RF amplifier and first mixer stages to have outstanding characteristics, so as to excel in performance as they confront the many close-in signals within the RF front-end filters. The RF Amplifier stage consists of a pair of SST310 Junction FETs in a parallel push-pull configuration to provide low noise figure and excellent immunity to blocking and Intermodulation. For the 21 MHz and higher bands, push-pull configured 3SK131 FETs are used for optimal noise figure performance on these higher frequencies. Following the RF Amplifier is the 1st Mixer, crafted using four SST310s in a doubly-balanced configuration ideal for optimizing IMD rejection in a multi-signal environment. Gain distribution in the front end is carefully balanced, as are stage gains throughout the receiver. The power supply in the front end runs at 22 Volts, further enhancing strong-signal performance. And the 1st Mixer, being an active type, does not contribute loss to the signal path, so frequently there is no need to use the RF amplifier stage at all (IPOIntercept Point Optimization mode), but rather provide direct feed to the 1st mixer, which improves intermodulation performance further. For operation on the 50 MHz band, a lower Noise Figure is sometimes important, especially for owners in very quiet locations operating EME (Moonbounce) or other very-weaksignal modes. So for 50 MHz operation, Yaesu's engineers have designed a special low-noise GaAs FET RF Amplifier using push-pull SGM2016 devices, while the first mixer utilizes four 2SK520 Junction FETs to push the Noise Figure well below what is required during HF operation. RX Unit (Showing the VRF and BPF Units)
Creating serenity out of HF band chaos. it's the everlasting mission of an HF transceiver
Nature provides the propagation. and the noise, and your stress level rises as you anticipate the QRM. But from the first moment you experience truly quiet reception, you begin to realize the real wonder and glory of HF DX. In order to make a dramatic improvement in multi-signal, close-in The Ultimate Overall Receiver Performance, Achieved through Balanced, High-Level Design strong signal handling performance, new thinking was required in
In elite-class Contest and DX-pedition environments, a large number of high-power stations are calling simultaneously inside a window of only a few kHz. Frequently, the RF front end's capabilities are exceeded by the presence of these high powered stations, obstructing reception due to a number of serious performance problems such as receiver gain compression, as well as an increase in internallygenerated noise from the receiver's own local signals. The front end of an HF radio, of course, faces the diverse challenge of dealing with multiple signals, ranging in strength from micro-Volts to dozens of Volts, in additional to constantly-changing noise levels. The stress from this hostile RF environment is very harsh on a receiver's RF front end. Our engineering team has concentrated on improving the performance of a receiver operating in this kind of harsh environment. Most importantly, they have recognized the need to improve the overall receiver performance, balanced at the highest levels, and considering all measurement data (including BDR, IDR, IP3) to form a unified, optimized receiver figure of merit. This important optimization and balance have resulted in a superior receiver with the highest order of performance. Moreover, care must be exercised when evaluating the claimed specifications of high-end receivers, as the precise measurement techniques associated with those specifications may be misleading. For example, a receiver with an outstanding Blocking Dynamic Range, measured with a test signal 100 kHz away, may, nonetheless, have inferior front-end characteristics when signals much closer than 10 kHz are encountered (as they typically are in a Contest or DX-pedition environment). Ultimately, the desired signal is lost.

BDR (Blocking Dynamic Range) IDR (IMD Dynamic Range) / IP3 (3rd-Order Intercept Point)

Intercept Point

the crafting of the first local oscillator (LO), critical to the process because it feeds the important first mixer of the receiver. A noisy first LO can cause irreparable degradation to the received signal, as the noise cannot be removed in succeeding stages of the receiver. Traditional PLL systems, in seeking to achieve a rapid lock time, suffer a rapid rise in LO noise around the carrier signal. The HRDDS (High Resolution Direct Digital Synthesizer) system being introduced in the FT DX 9000 Series utilizes a direct locking technique using a 400 MHz reference signal, resulting in a lock time that approaches zero; because the lock time is zero, the inversely-related C/N ratio has no degradation close-in, resulting in unprecedented maintenance of the signal-to-noise ratio close to your operating frequency, and the BDR performance follows suit.
First IF (40 MHz) 3 kHz Roofing Filter
In the 40 MHz 1st IF, three selectable roofing filters are provided, in bandwidths of 3 kHz, 6 kHz, and 15 kHz, to protect the following stages from strong signals that could degrade dynamic range in the first IF amplifier and subsequent stages. Each roofing filter consists of a four-pole fundamentalmode monolithic crystal filter array, the best technique evaluated in Yaesu's exhaustive testing process.
Local Oscillator Unit w/400 MHz HRDDS

C/N Ratio Performance

Triple Conversion Receiver using Gain Distribution Optimization
In the FT DX 9000, a gain-optimized triple-conversion superheterodyne receiver architecture is employed, utilizing IFs of 40 MHz, 455 kHz, and 30 kHz (FM 3rd IF: 24 kHz). Each stage is carefully filtered, and its gain balanced against the other IF stages' gains, to optimize net system performance. The system architecture does not require extraneous circuits for image rejection, resulting in an efficient design without unnecessary stages that can provide opportunities for performance degradation.
Front End Block Diagram (VFO-A/B, with Dual Receivers Installed)

RF 1st IF 40.455MHz

3 kHz Roofing Filter Performance

Receiver Output

Three Selections of IF Roofing Filters

2nd IF 455kHz

10 dB/Div 200 kHz/Div

3rd IF/DSP

30kHz DSP DET
Noise Floor Level Dynamic Range 110 dB Antenna Jack Input

ANT Selector

Ultra-Low-Noise Local Oscillator System Creates "The Sound of Silence." Worlds First 400 MHz High-Resolution Direct Digital Synthesizer (HRDDS): Unmatched Capability to Ensure Weak Signal Reception in a High-Level, Multi-Signal Environment

Local Oscillator Block Diagram

1st Local

AMP HRDDS LPF 400MHz OCXO PLL LPF VCO

RF AMP

ROOFING FILTER 1st IF AMP 3k/6k/15k 1st LOCAL 2nd LOCAL AGC CF 2nd IF AMP 3rd LOCAL
ADC FILTER AGC DSP DET DET DAC
ROOFING FILTER 1st IF AMP CF 2nd IF AMP 3rd LOCAL 450kHz 2nd IF

ADC FILTER AGC DET DAC

3k/6k/15k 1st LOCAL 40.450MHz 1st IF

2nd LOCAL

VRF (Variable RF Filter): Our Standard Preselector Filter Covers 1.8 ~ 50 MHz
The RF front end input circuit, consisting of the VRF (Variable RF Filter) and BPF (Bandpass filter) stages, is designed to protect the stages to follow (especially the RF amplifier and first mixer) from the effects of strong off-frequency signals. The VRF operates as an RF "preselector" with sufficient "Q" to be significantly narrower than the traditional BPF networks used for decades in solid-state receivers; as a result, much more interference suppression is afforded by the VRF circuit. The high Q is obtained, depending on the frequency of interest, by using large-diameter (T-80) toroidal inductors and air-core coils; a total of 31 relay-selected combinations of coils and capacitors are used to establish resonance around the operating frequency, and the VRF may also be optimally skewed to one side or the other of your operating frequency, in difficult cases of co-location interference inside the bandpass filter, by manually turning the VRF dial on the front panel.
VRF Response Characteristics (7 MHz)
-Tune Circuit Functional Diagram
VFO Dial -T Dial Controller/Tuning Data Memory
New Ultra-High-Stability Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillator (OCXO)

Stepping Motor

TUNE Button
Position Sensor Marker Probe Position Sensor Position Sensor
Enjoy the New World of YAESU 32-bit Floating-Point DSP, Crafted through Worldwide DXer Input for Uniquely High Performance and Operability
The new IF DSP system, utilizing a TI TMS320C6711 device, is a high-speed 32-bit floating point circuit designed with a unique objective: to do away with the "digital" sound of many DSP filtering systems, and emulate the "Analog Sound" so familiar and comfortable to HF DX and Contest operators. Special attention has been paid to AGC attack/ release time design within the DSP, so as to enhance weak- 32-Bit High-Speed signal reception on crowded bands. Floating-Point DSP

Standard Narrow SSB 2.4 kHz SSB 1.8 kHz
CW/RTTY/PSK 500 Hz CW/RTTY/PSK 300 Hz

CW Zero Beat Indication

AM 9 kHz

AM 6 kHz

FM 16 kHz

FM 9 kHz

New-Design Analog-like DSP CONTOUR Passband Adjustment
One potential problem of DSP-based IF filtering is the tendency of the sharp shape factor of the filter to cause the incoming signal to have a peculiar, unnatural sound. Seeking to mitigate this effect, we have redesigned the "CONTOUR" control so as to allow the operator to modify the "shoulder" or "in-band" roll-off characteristics of the CONTOUR Filter Conceptual Diagram main IF passband, thus retaining a more natural sound to the signal while suppressing intereferencebearing frequency segments dramatically.
Interference-Fighting IF Notch and Ultra-Narrow Auto-Notch Beat Reduction Filter
The IF Notch circuit is a powerfully high-Q attenuation circuit that is very effective from removing interfering carriers from the receiver passband. Normally, this filter will be manually adjusted by the operator to notch IF NOTCH Performance out an offending signal, but when multiple interfering carriers are encountered, the Auto Notch filter may be engaged to null out all such beat tones within the IF passband.
PMFIR Log Magnitude -10 -20 -30 -40 -50 -60 -70 -80 -90 -100 FREQUENCY kHz
For effortless CW operation, the precise transmitting pitch, and matching sidetone (which reflects your CW pitch offset) may be adjusted from a dedicated knob on the front panel. Therefore, when tuning around the band, you simply press the SPOT button to match the pitch of the incoming station's signal to that of your CW sidetone, and you will be precisely aligned to the other station's frequency. We have also included a CQ tuning indicator, in which a marker will move toward the center position from the left or right, and the central LED will light up when precise alignment has been accomplished (without the need to engage the SPOT tone). And you still have indication of the Clarifier offset on the main display area, so you won't miss the switch from the "Analog Clarifier Display" to the "CW Tuning Indicator" display.

DSP 3 Stage Parametric EQ f1
Skillfully-Conceived Microphone Circuit for First-Class Transmit Audio Quality Ultra-Low-Distortion Class-A Final Amplifier for Best IMD Suppression on the Band!
Referring to the illustrations below, note the very low distortion obtainable with the FT DX 9000's Class A operating capability. In the FT DX 9000, you have front-panel control over the bias level applied to the final amplifier, affording continuous adjustment of the operating conditions, from Class A to Class AB! In the 400-Watt version, the power output becomes 100 Watts, and typical 3rd-order IMD drops to -50 dB, while 5th- and higher-order IMD drops below -70 dB! The microphone input circuit is a low-noise FET design, using a professional-grade Tamura TpAs-203 audio transformer to ensure high fidelity is preserved. Additionally, when using a professional high-fidelity condenser microphone requiring a 48-Volt supply, this voltage may be enabled on the front panel XLR connector by changing an internal jumper, and a LED on the front panel will light up to confirm that voltage is being supplied to the XLR connector.
Yaesu Exclusive: 3-Stage Parametric Equalizer Microphone Amplifier
Another design breakthrough on the FT DX 9000 Series is the incorporation of the industry's first three-band Parametric Equalizer Microphone Amplifier. The Parametric Equalizer, compared to simpler designs, allows very precise enhancements of three different ranges (bass, mid-range, and treble) of audio frequency response, providing unmatched ability for you to match your radio's response to your voice and microphone. The front and rear microphone Parametric Equalizer Frequency Response inputs may be equalized independently, and the sparkling fidelity from 0 your FT DX 9000 will make you the envy of everyone else on the band!
+10dB Bandwidth/Gain (Q) Level (dB) Gain/Loss -10dB
Class A: Ultra-Low TX IMD (PO: 100 W MP Version) 200-Watt Version Utilizes

Push-Pull SD2931 Devices

Final Amplifier Temperature Display

(MP/Contest Versions)

High-Speed Automatic Antenna Tuner
A comprehensive review of previous antenna tuner designs has resulted in the adoption of a new, high-speed design based on the use of stepper motors to provide high precision and quick recall of previous settings. A total of 100 antenna tuner data memories may be preserved, allowing handsfree return to a particular frequency where tuning data was stored. In the antenna tuning circuit, ultra-rugged relays, coils, and capacitors rated for operation at the 500-Watt level are employed, to ensure high reliability for many years.
The unique capability to set the desired bias operating point, from Class A to AB, allows you to optimize the bias point-on the fly-to conform to the operating conditions you utilize, whether you're in a local, high-fidelity rag-chew or in the heat of battle in a contest, where Class AB will generate less heat in your operating room.

Class AB: Typical IMD at 400 W PEP Output
Renowned Speech Processor Design for that "Sunday Punch" in a Pile-up! Transmitter Monitor Feature Full Duplex Operation Low-Level Transverter Output Jack
FT DX 9000 Standard Equipment Chart

(Special Order Version)

FH-2 Remote Control Keypad

(Supplied Accessory)

Transmitter Power Output AC Input Appearance and Features
Dual Receive Unit (Sub Receiver) RXU-9000 Sub Receiver RF Unit VRF-9000 RF -Tuning Unit A (160 m Band) MTU-160 RF -Tuning Unit B (80/40 m Bands) MTU-80/40 RF -Tuning Unit C (30/20 m Bands) MTU-30/20 Data Management Unit DMU-9000 TFT Display Unit TFT-9000
200 W Universal Input (100-240 VAC) without re-wiring
FPS-9000H AC Power Supply with Dual Speakers and Audio Filters LCD + 2 Dual Meters, no Sub Receiver LCD + 2 Dual Meters, Large 6.5" TFT Display Main Receiver includes VRF Main/Sub Receiver includes VRF Main/Sub Receiver includes VRF
Option Option Option Option Option
Allows interconnection of external LCD display (not supplied) when TFT Unit is not installed.
Message Memory Selection Keys Recording/ Playback Key (same as P. BACK Key on front panel)
Memory Key Message Keyer Navigation Keys (using TFT/LCD) Message Memory Keyer Contest Number Decrement Key

Option Option Option

Option
Option (DMU-9000 required)
Option please specify when ordering. please specify when ordering.

Supplied Accessories

FH-2 Remote Control Keypad 64 MB CF Card Message Keyer, (included with MP/D versions) Audio Message Memory Command and Selection RCA Plugs (6 pcs.) Stereo Plugs (2 pcs.) 3.5 mm Mono Plugs (2 pcs.) 3.5 mm Stereo Plug (1 pc.) 4-Pin DIN Plug (1 pc.) 5-Pin DIN Plug (1 pc.) 7-Pin DIN Plug (1 pc.) For retention of Log Book text data 8-PIN DIN Plug (1 pc.) AC Cord (1 pc.) 8 Pin Modular Mic Adapter Cable (for MD-200A8X,MD-100A8X,MH-31B8) FT DX 9000MP Accessory FPS-9000H External Power Supply with Dual Speakers and Audio Filters (Output: 50 V/24 A) Size (WHD): 9.7"X6.5"X17.2" / 246X165X438mm (w/o knobs)

-66 dB

Light Blue Display Color
please specify when ordering.
Additional installation charges will apply if accessories are ordered after original purchase date for transceiver.

Specifications

General Frequncy Range
Transmit Meters (60 Meter Band /USA Version) (Amateur Bands Only) 5.1675 MHz (Alaska Emergency Frequency : USA Only) Receive 30 kHz - 60 MHz (Operating) 160 - 6 m (Amateur bands only) Emission Modes A1A(CW),A3E(AM),J3E(LSB,USB),F3E(FM) F1B(RTTY),F1D(PACKET),F2D(PACKET) Synthesizer Steps(Min) 1Hz/10Hz(CW,SSB,AM),100Hz(FM) Antenna Impedance 50 Ohms, Unbanlanced (Tuner OFF) 16.7 - 150 Ohms, unbalanced (Tuner ON, 160- 10 m, TX only) 25 - 100 Ohms, unbalanced (Tuner ON, 6 m, TX only) Operating Temperature Range +14 F - +140 F (10 C~+60 C) Frequency Stability 0.03 ppm (+14 F - +140 F /10 C~+60 C, after 5 min) Supply Voltage (117 VAC Input) 100 VAC/200 VAC (Universal Input) 90 VAC~264 VAC 100 VA (Approx.) 120 VA 1500 VA (Approx.) 720 VA (Approx.) Selectivity RX(signal present) TX MP-400 W D/Contest-200 W Current Consumption RX(no signal) Sensitivity (IPO "off")

FT DX 9000 Rear Panel

Microphone Impedance 600 Ohms (200 to 10 k-Ohms)
VL-1000 HF/50 MHz* 1 KW Linear Amplifier
Desktop Dynamic Microphone MD-200A8X VP-1000 Matching Power Supply for VL-1000

Hand Microphone

MH-31B8

VL-1000

Built-in Automatic Antenna Tuner
* U.S. Version: 24/28 MHz bands blocked

VP-1000

MD-100A8X Desktop Microphone
YH-77STA Stereo Headphones
For the MP version, similar capabilities are provided in the supplied Dual Speaker/Power Supply FPS-9000H.
About this brochure: we have made this brochure as comprehensive and factual as possible. We reserve the right, however, to make changes at any time in equipment, optional accessories, specifications, model numbers, and availability. Precise frequency range may be different in some countries. Some accessories shown herein may not be available in some countries. Some information may have been updated since the time of printing; please check with your Authorized Yaesu Dealer for complete details.
VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.
4-8-8 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-8644, Japan
VERTEX STANDARD YAESU EUROPE B.V.
For the latest Yaesu news,visit us on the Internet:
US Headquarters 10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
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YAESU UK LTD.

http://www.yaesu.co.uk Email: sales@yaesu.co.uk
Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Close Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.

VERTEX STANDARD HK LTD.

2005.05001NA(U/E) B9200484A Printed in Japan

http://www.vxstd.com.hk

Unit 5, 20 /F., Seaview Centre, 139-141 Hoi Bun Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Table 1 Yaesu FTDX9000 Contest, serial number 5G020107
Manufacturers Specications
Frequency coverage: Receive, 0.03-60 MHz; transmit, 1.8-2, 3.5-4, 5.33, 5.35, 5.37, 5.40, 7-7.3, 10.1-10.15,14-14.35,18.068-18.168, 21-21.45, 24.89-24.99, 28-29.7, 50-54 MHz. Power requirement: 90-264 V ac; receive, 100 VA (no signal); transmit, 720 VA (200 W out).

Measured in the ARRL Lab

Receive and transmit, as specied.

As specied.

Operating modes: SSB, CW, AM, FM, FSK, AFSK. As specied. Receiver SSB/CW sensitivity, 2.4 kHz bandwidth, 10 dB S+N/N: 1.8-30 MHz, 0.2 V; 50-54 MHz, 0.13 V. Receiver Dynamic Testing Noise Floor (MDS), 500 Hz lter: Preamp off Preamp on 1.0 MHz 114 dBm 120 dBm 3.5 MHz 124 dBm 134 dBm 14 MHz 123 dBm 133 dBm 50 MHz 117 dBm 136 dBm 10 dB (S+N)/N, 1-kHz tone, 30% mod: Preamp off Preamp on 1.0 MHz 8.9 V 4.2 V 3.8 MHz 2.2 V 0.89 V 50 MHz 5.4 V 0.80 V For 12 dB SINAD: Preamp off 29 MHz 1.6 V 52 MHz 2.3 V Preamp on 0.46 V 0.29 V
AM sensitivity, 6 kHz bandwidth, 10 dB S+N/N: 0.1-1.8 MHz, 3.2 V; 1.8-30 MHz, 2 V; 50-54 MHz, 1 V.
FM sensitivity, 12 dB SINAD: 28-30 MHz, 0.5 V; 50-54 MHz, 0.35 V.
Blocking dynamic range: Not specied.

On the Air

The 200 W output Contest got uniformly positive reviews from stations I worked during casual operation. While getting the right mic level and IF DSP processor settings took a little bit of tinkering, it sounds terrific on SSB by all accounts. One station sent me a recording of an on-air audio comparison between the Contest and my IC-756PROIII (same mic in both cases a Heil Pro-Set Plus!). The Contest clearly had the edge in audio quality, processor on or off. By the way, the minimum compression level for the processor is about 10 dB, which is the maximum the manual says you should apply. Often less is more when it comes to compressors, however. As do its pricier siblings, the Contest offers a three-band parametric equalizer to tailor transmit audio to suit the users voice and microphone choice. Briefly, parametric equalization lets you specify a center frequency for either boosting or cutting and a bandwidth for each of the three ranges across the transmitted audio passband. While more difficult to use than the bass and treble controls on some radios, the parametric equalizer provides a professional approach appropriate to the XLR mic connector on the front panel. Its unfortunate that the manual does not go into further detail about how to get the most out of this particular feature. Yaesu indicates that that their Web site will provide all manual updates as they become available. The CW keying is excellent (see Figure 2), and you can tinker with menu settings to customize weighting as well as rise time (shape).

Blocking dynamic range, 500 Hz lter: 20 kHz 5 kHz/2 kHz Preamp off/on Preamp off 3.5 MHz 128*/134* dB 118*/97 dB 14 MHz 128*/133* dB 119*/97 dB 50 MHz 114*/130* dB 106*/96 dB Two-tone, third-order IMD dynamic range, 500 Hz lter: 20 kHz 5 kHz/2 kHz Preamp off/on Preamp off 3.5 MHz 99/94 dB 99/79 dB 14 MHz 101/100 dB 98*/78 dB 50 MHz 97/95 dB 91/78 dB 20 kHz 5 kHz/2 kHz Preamp off/on Preamp off 3.5 MHz +27/+10 dBm +27/+0 dBm 14 MHz +35/+20 dBm +32/+1 dBm 50 MHz +33/+8 dBm +27/+6 dBm Preamp off/on, +65/+65 dBm. 20 kHz offset, preamp on: 29 MHz, 85 dB; 52 MHz, 83 dB.
Two-tone, third-order IMD dynamic range: Not specied.
Third-order intercept: Not specied.
Second-order intercept: Not specied. FM adjacent channel rejection: Not specied.
Figure 1 The main tuning knob, display and the nerve center of the FTDX9000 Contest. The small display to the right shows the frequency of the selected VFO, as well as antenna, roong lter and bandwidth settings for both VFOs and graphical representations of current roong lter, bandwidth and shift settings.

QS0603-PR02

FM two-tone, third-order IMD dynamic range: Not specied. S-meter sensitivity: Not specied. Squelch sensitivity: Not specied.
20 kHz offset, preamp on: 29 MHz, 85 dB*; 52 MHz, 83 dB.* 10 MHz offset: 52 MHz, 103 dB. S9 signal at 14.2 MHz: preamp off, 56 V; preamp on, 14 V. At threshold, preamp on: SSB, 1.1 V; FM, 29 MHz, 0.08 V; 52 MHz, 0.08 V. Range at 6 dB points, (bandwidth): CW: 325-977 Hz (652 Hz)**; USB: 111-2825 Hz (2714 Hz); LSB: 110-2900 Hz (2790 Hz); AM: 73-2766 Hz (2693 Hz). First IF rejection, 14 MHz, 119 dB; 50 MHz, 97 dB; image rejection, 14 MHz, 102 dB; 50 MHz, 77 dB. Transmitter Dynamic Testing HF: CW, SSB, FM, typically 208 W high, <2 W low; AM, typ 66 W high, <2 W low; 50 MHz: CW, SSB, FM, typ 185 W high, <2 W low; AM, typ 80 W high, <2 W low. HF, 56 dB; 50 MHz, 62 dB. Meets FCC requirements. >80 dB. 74 dB. 3rd/5th/7th/9th order (worst case): 200 W, 34/47/50/*** dB PEP Class A (75 W), 43/*** dB PEP 4 to 56 WPM. See Figures 2 and 3. S9 signal, 35 ms. SSB, 38 ms; FM, 38 ms. Unit is not suitable for use on ARQ modes. See Figure 4. Figure 2 CW keying waveform for the FTDX9000 Contest showing the rst two dits in full-break-in (QSK) mode using external keying. Equivalent keying speed is 60 WPM. The upper trace is the actual key closure (starting at left edge of plot); the lower trace is the RF envelope. Horizontal divisions are 10 ms. The transceiver was being operated at
Receiver audio output: 2.5 W into 4 at 10% THD. 3.6 W at 10% THD into 4. IF/audio response: Not specied.

Spurious and image rejection: HF: 70 dB; 50 MHz, Not specied.
Transmitter Power output: HF and 50 MHz: SSB, CW, FM, 200 W (high), 5 W (low); AM, 75 W (high), 5 W (low); Class A mode, SSB, 75 W (high), 5 W (low). Spurious and harmonic suppression: Harmonics 60 dB on HF, 70 dB on 50 MHz. SSB carrier suppression: 70 dB. Undesired sideband suppression: 80 dB. Third-order intermodulation distortion (IMD) products: 35 dB (200 W PEP); Class A mode, 50 dB (75 W PEP). CW keyer speed range: Not specied. CW keying characteristics: Not specied. Transmit-receive turnaround time (PTT release to 50% audio output): Not specied. Receive-transmit turnaround time (tx delay): Not specied. Composite transmitted noise: Not specied.

QS0603PR03

Reference Level: 0 dBc Vertical Scale: dB
14025 Frequency Sweep: -5 to +5 kHz from Carrier
Size (height, width, depth): 6.5 20.4 17.3 inches; weight, 66 pounds.
*Measurement was noise-limited at the value indicated. **Measured with 500 Hz lter. Varies with PITCH control settings. ***The 9th order products at 200 W and 5th, 7th and 9th order products in Class A were below measurable level.
Figure 3 Worst-case spectral display of the FTDX9000 Contest transmitter during keying sideband testing. Equivalent keying speed is 60 WPM using external keying. Spectrum analyzer resolution bandwidth is 10 Hz, and the sweep time is 30 seconds. The transmitter was being operated at 200 W PEP output at 14.2 MHz.

QS0603-PR04

The built-in keyer operates smoothly in semi and full break-in modes, although I did alter the weighting slightly. I used the Contest during the CQ World Wide CW DX Contest and the ARRL 160Meter Contest, also a CW event. Once I got the hang of it, even the weakest signals became copiable with the Contest. Its truly a superior performer. It seemed there was nary a signal I could not copy. For example, the CONTOUR, VRF, NR (noise reduction) and NOTCH features all came in handy while trying to pull TF3CW out of the mud during the CQ WW. While the VRF and NR help keep down noise, the unique CONTOUR feature (menu adjustable) lets you notch or boost within the passband, although you must go to the menu

to switch to or adjust either function. (This feature may be a good choice to program into the C.S custom switch button, which gives quick access to a single menu item.) In addition to zapping unwanted signals or heterodynes, the conventional NOTCH permits additional filter shaping. The D.NOTCH is an auto-notch. On SSB, engaging one or more of these functions will affect audio quality to a greater or lesser degree. Of course, it doesnt hurt to be able to wind the bandwidth down to 200 Hz (it will go as low as 25), or to be able to shift the IF passband as needed, all thanks to the 32-bit floating point DSP. In addition to being able to customize a raft of automatic gain control (AGC) settings,
Reference Level: - 60 dBc/Hz Vertical Scale: dBc/Hz
Frequency Sweep: 2 to 22 kHz from Carrier
Figure 4 Worst-case spectral display of the FTDX9000 Contest transmitter output during composite-noise testing. Power output is 200 W at 14.02 MHz. The carrier, off the left edge of the plot, is not shown. This plot shows composite transmitted noise 2 to 22 kHz from the carrier.
ARRL Lab Data Presentation Changes
In the January 2006 Product Review column, we introduced the new Key Measurements Summarycolor charts showing different test parameters relative to the range of typical values. This month, we introduce two additional changes to the test data prepared by the ARRL Lab for HF transceivers.
0 Reference Level: 10 Vertical Scale: dB0 dBc QS0603-PRA
Close-In Dynamic Range The first change is subtle in appearance but quite significant in impact additional receiver dynamic range measurements at 2 kHz spacing. For several decades, QST Product Reviews have included measurements for IMD dynamic range and blocking dynamic range at a signal spacing of 20 kHz.1 In July 2001, we added measurements taken at 5 kHz spacing to better represent receiver performance on a crowded band.2 The appearance of transceivers with narrow bandwidth roofing filters and upconverting first IFs has spurred interest in dynamic range even closer in. The ARRL Lab has tested dynamic range at offsets as low as 1 kHz since 1996, publishing this data in Expanded Test Result Reports.3 Members have expressed interest in seeing the 2 kHz spacing data in the column, so starting this month we will publish dynamic range measurements at 20 kHz spacing with the preamp on and off, and at 5 kHz and 2 kHz spacing with the preamp off. As always, no one parameter (such as close-in dynamic range) should be considered as the measure of a transceivers performance. Look at all performance parameters and obtain as much information as possible when making a purchase decision. Its especially important to keep in mind that variations of several dB are not significant and are to be expected between any two units of the same model number. CW Keying Sidebands The other new item this month is a plot of the transmitter CW keying sidebands measured on a spectrum analyzer (Figure 3) in addition to the traditional CW waveform measured on an oscilloscope (Figure 2). These plots show different aspects of a transmitters CW output, and together they can be used to evaluate CW keying quality. QST Product Reviews have regularly reported on SSB transmitter intermodulation distortion (IMD) products that can cause interference to nearby stations. Previously published as a spectrum analyzer plot, the level of the 3rd through 9th order IMD products are now listed in the transceiver data table. CW fans are also concerned about the cleanliness of their transmitted signal, especially with regard to splatter that interferes with operators on nearby frequencies. The ARRL Handbook recommends an ideal CW wave shape with rise and fall times of about 5 ms to minimize key clicks and keep the signal within a 150 Hz occupied bandwidth.4 While many rigs come close to this figure, some have much shorter transition times, often resulting in a clicky output. Waveforms with sharp edges (square corners or any rapid shape change) can also be a problem, even if the rise and fall times meet the theoretical ideal. The traditional oscilloscope plot (Figure 2) shows the

14023 14025

Frequency Sweep: -5 to +5 kHz from Carrier
Figure 5 Heres an example of a radio with poor keying sideband performance. Note how wide the shape of the signal is compared with the FTDX9000 Contest (Figure 3). This means that the transmitted energy is still fairly strong for several kHz above and below the carrier, with the potential for interference to nearby stations.
transmitter output with the transmitter keyed at 60 WPM. The top trace shows the key closure (first closure at left edge), while the bottom trace is the actual RF output of the radio. In addition to showing the general wave shape, this test shows whether there is any shortening of the first dit in semi-break-in operation or sometimes of all dits in full-break-in (QSK) operation. It also indicates the keying delay (the time between key closure and RF output). The absolute values of the on and off delay are not critical, but they should be approximately the same so that CW weighting will not be affected. Figure 3 shows the transmitter CW output, again with a string of 60 WPM dits, as measured on a spectrum analyzer. The plot shows the carrier at the center of the screen and the energy at frequencies up to 5 kHz from the carrier (keying sidebands). The measurements use a resolution bandwidth of 10 Hz and are not instantaneous, but rather indicate the average energy produced over 30 seconds. This slow sweep technique makes it easier to read the level of unwanted energy produced. In an ideal transmitter, the level of keying sidebands drops off very quickly, producing little energy on adjacent frequencies. (In other words, the narrower the signal trace, the better.) An example of poor keying sideband performance is shown in Figure 5. We hope that you find these changes to the data presentation helpful. We will continue to review our test procedures and presentation and introduce additional changes as warranted. Michael Tracy, KC1SX, ARRL Test Engineer
Tracy, QST Product ReviewsIn Depth, In English, QST, Aug 2004, pp 32-36. 2M. Tracy, ARRL Lab Data Table Change, QST, July 2001, p 80. 3Available online at www.arrl.org/members-only/prodrev/reports. html. 4R. D. Straw, Ed., The 2006 ARRL Handbook for Radio Communications (Newington: 2005), pp 9.7-9.8.
another great feature is the ability to slope the AGC response. Once the AGC comes into play, the additional slope provides just a little play in its AGC and can also reduce overall noise. For example, a weak signal next to a fairly strong one will be a bit harder copy at the normal AGC setting than with the sloped setting, even though the desired signal may not sound quite as loud. It can make the difference between copying a weak one or not, however.
CQ SS DE FTDX9000 CONTEST

Front Panel Overload

Perhaps befitting a radio of this stature, its front panel is extremely busy. While most of the controls tend to be of industrial proportions, I found some of the legends difficult to read without first front lighting the radio. Before I got acquainted with the extensive layout, I sometimes found myself peering closely and squinting or moving the desk lamp around to get a good look. Even then, with the radio at desk level, some of the controls and/or the panels topography tend to obscure the legends. This is particularly true of some lower-tier controls. Yaesu apparently tried to compensate by providing some top lighting for the controls on either side. While noteworthy, this doesnt quite succeed because (1) the light is amber and quite dim, and (2) the four sizeable knobs on the top right hand row totally block the amber light from reaching the lower-tier controls. The legends for the tightly spaced buttons, arrayed like parentheses around the CLAR/VFO B knob, are minuscule (secondary functions are orange) and difficult to decipher even in adequate auxiliary lighting. The close grouping also makes it simple to punch the wrong button, assuming you can see the button and, if necessary, determine if the dull-amber LED in some of them is lighted or not. Speaking of the CLAR/VFO B knob, I found it was very, very easy to nudge it inadvertently, either while pressing one of the adjacent buttons or when adjusting the VRF or
NOTCH controls immediately above it. Unlike FTDX9000 units with the TFT
display installed, the Contest presents the user with a row of buttons just below the LCD screen and the two smaller analog meters mentioned earlier. These little buttons double as band keys (with triple-stacking registers) and frequency entry keys. Because they serve dual functions, theyre labeled 1/1.8 through 0/28 plus./50, GENeral coverage and the ENTer buttons. The dual labels can be confusing. Oh! I meant to enter 7 but I hit the 4/7 key instead.
the transmitter all the while putting out a 100 W carrier (the manual does advise checking the frequency before firing up the ATU).

Miscellaneous Pluses and Minuses
Operating split is simple, and you can program a preset split, such as 2 kHz, and the TXW key lets you listen on your transmit frequency (no matter how you got into split mode). However, if you hit SPLIT and, say, youve been using the CLAR/VFO B knob for RIT/XIT, it clears that. Pressing SPLIT again doesnt return you to clarifier mode, however. You have to also press the A/B key next to the CLAR/VFO B knob. The August 2005 review praised the quiet fan, but our Contests cooling fan had a distinctive rattle. Yaesu offered that this was not typical and could have resulted from latent shipping damage. The tuning offset indicator, praised in the earlier review for making CW tuning easy, has additional functionality. You can set it to display the relative offset of the clarifier or the manual notch filter (the manual doesnt mention the latter) or the peak position of the VRF or -Tune filter. The first three work great; I couldnt get it to display the VRF peak, however. The FH-2 Remote Control Keypad is a

Automatic Antenna Tuner

The automatic antenna tuner (ATU) offers 100 memory points at least one for each band is set at the factory, and it works on receive as well as transmit (on HF and 6 meters), helping to keep strong out-of-band RF out of the passband. The Operation Manual says the unit can match impedances between 16.5 and 150 an SWR of 3:1 or less. It also allows that the impedance of certain antennas may not be within the impedance matching range of the ATU on all bands. The Contests ATU frequently can take a relatively long time to find a match 30 seconds or more in some cases,
mouse-like outboard accessory keypad (it comes standard with the radio) that plugs into the rear apron. It worked fine to program voice and CW memories. As heard in the monitor in VOX mode, the voice playback seems to skip, but it sounds fine over the air. You have to be very quick in ending a recording or it will leave a noticeable tail of noise. The audio limiter feature (AFL), which limits AF output, offers a wonderful way to conserve your hearing, especially during long periods of contesting. Programming the digital voice recorder requires activating PTT. Unless you have a push-to-talk mic (the Contest doesnt come with a mic), however, youll have to improvise (I used a straight key). Pressing MOX wont cut it. The P.BACK button lets you record and play back a segment of received audio, which is a cool feature. The manual says 30 seconds, but its more like 15. You apparently cannot play back the recorded audio over the air, however. The MOX and DIM buttons have no embedded LEDs to let you know theyre enabled. The VOX button does have one, however. The NAR button is a convenient feature that swaps in a preset narrow filter, but you cant then override that setting using the WIDTH control.

Figure 6 The DR-635T is a compact radio with a clear display and large push buttons that make it easy to use.

Initial Impressions

I found the 635T to be very straightforward to use in a home station. After taking the radio out of the box, I attached the substantial
Hallas, Getting to Know Your Radio VHF Squelch Modes, QST, Aug 2005, pp 46-47. dio, see www.arrl.org/tis/info/digivoice.html.
6For more information on digital voice in Amateur Ra-
microphone. Unlike many of the newer radios that have reduced-size microphones, the EMS-57 that came with the radio fills up the palm of your hand. After plugging in a dualband antenna and attaching the fused leads to the power supply, I was ready to go. The first thing that caught my attention was what happened to the display when I turned on the power. The front panel changed
from off, to a violet color, and then to blue. Control your emotions this is normal and highlights a feature of this radio. The 635T has three different color options for its displays amber, violet and blue. The defaults are blue in the receiving mode, amber in transmit and violet in standby. You can change these settings to suit your personal taste. After figuring out that the color change
is normal, I was ready to dial up the local repeater and make a contact. The largest knob on the front panel acts as the control for the VFO. Its also used for changing memories in memory mode and for changing various settings in the parameter setting mode (SET MODE). In the VFO mode, you can either

0.17 0.18 0.1

78@10 MHz

SINAD 0.25

Receiver Sensitivity (12 dB SINAD, V)

68@10 MHz

Receive 3rd-order dynamic range (dB)

63@20 kHz

54@20 kHz

ChRej 50

90 131*
Adjacent Channel Rejection (dB)
tune in the frequency using the main VFO knob or punch in the desired frequency from the 16-button keypad on the microphone. That part was simple. Unlike several other radios I have reviewed recently, the DR-635T does not automatically use repeater offsets that track the usual band plans. It is quite easy to use the function buttons to set the correct offset, but it is not done for you automatically. I discovered this when I attempted to access a repeater with a +600 kHz offset and found the offset display showing a minus offset. You can easily store the information (including frequency, offset and tone access) for frequently used repeaters in one of the ample available memory channels. When using the VFO mode, however, you need to pay attention and make sure that the correct offset is selected. The manual describes how to use the VFO AUTOPROGRAM function to call up automatic settings including repeater offset and CTCSS tones while you are tuning a specific frequency range set by programming upper and lower limits into the AH and AL memories. The problem with this arrangement is that you can set only one band segment at a time. After setting the proper offset, I was ready to go. I threw my call out on the frequency, and a friend answered. So with a few exceptions, the 635T handily passed the N1ND how quickly can I get it on the air test.

information on using this feature.7 I ended up classifying the radio controls in two groups basic operation or advanced features. The basic operations included PWR on/off, MAIN VOL and SUB VOL (separate volume knobs for the main and sub bands), V/M (VFO/memory) switch and dial, VHF/UHF BAND switch, H/L (high/medium/low) power level, SQL (squelch), TS/DCS (tone squelch/ DCS) and CALL mode (to return the radio to a programmed primary call frequency, one each for VHF and UHF). All of these controls are accessed from the front panel without the need to press the FUNC (function) key or put the radio into the SET MODE.

Plenty of Memories

Back in the good old days you needed a good memory in your head to remember the correct CTCSS tone or unusual offset for your local repeater. The 635T handles these details by providing 200 memory channels 80 channels each for VHF and UHF and 40 more channels that can be used for either band. Each band 2 meters and 70 cm has a user-designated CALL (priority) channel. To manage the 200 memory channels, you can include an alphanumeric label for each repeater stored in memory. Programming the memory channels is relatively straightforward. Use the V/M button to put the radio into memory mode and select the parameters you wish to store. Next, press FUNC and the various memory channel numbers will be displayed on the readout. Use the main tuning dial to select the channel memory number you wish to store the information in. If the selected memory is empty, its number will flash. Press the V/M key again while the function icon is displayed on the main readout, and the repeater information is stored in the 635Ts memory bank for future use. Its likely you will run out of repeaters before you run out of channels in which to store them. Although the memory features worked flawlessly, some way of further grouping similar memory channels (for example, ARES channels or repeaters used while traveling) would have made operation even more convenient.
Installation and Some Features
The 635T comes with a detachable front panel that can be flipped to allow the speaker to fire out the top or bottom useful during mobile operation with limited interior space. Using the EDS-9 separation kit (not reviewed), you can mount the main unit remotely, up to 16.5 feet away. After the initial smoke test to make sure everything was working properly, it was time to start exploring the DR-635Ts many options and features. I first spent some time with the manual to familiarize myself with the 12 buttons and dials on the front panel. Most buttons control more than one function. Some I had learned during the initial setup of the radio. Some would take a little more study. One important element that I look for when purchasing a radio is the quality and ease of use of the instruction manual. While I think the manual accompanying the DR-635T handles many elements well, it could use an alphabetical index to make specific operations easier to find. The manual covers both the USA (DR-635T) and European (DR-635E) versions and in most cases does a good job of differentiating between the two. Cross-band repeater operation is available only on the US version and is covered on an insert sheet. These instructions are sketchy, and I would have liked more

IF Rejection (dB)

Image Rejection (dB)

Img 60

Audio Output (W)

195 121

2M 70 cm

T-R 250

More Choices for Your Listening Pleasure
In addition to amateur FM operation, the 635T can receive a broad range of frequencies including the FM broadcast band, AM aircraft band and NOAA weather channels. So if you get bored listening to amateur chatter, you can tune in your favorite oldies station or the local weather. I was disappointed that the 635T does not include the
Key: * Noise limited at value shown
The Alinco DR-635T is a durable, attractive and easy to use mobile transceiver that offers flexible mounting options.
a good idea to review the rules and regulations regarding crossband repeaters and remote base operation in The ARRL FCC Rule Book or online at www.arrl.org/FandES/eld/ regulations/faq-aux.html.
Table 2 Alinco DR-635T, serial number M000586
Frequency coverage: Receive, 87.5-174,* 335480 MHz; transmit, 144-148, 430-450 MHz. Power requirements: Receive, 0.7 A (max audio); transmit, 11 A (high power). Modes of operation: FM, AM (receive only). Receiver AM sensitivity: Not specied. FM sensitivity, 12 dB SINAD: 0.2 V. FM two-tone, third-order IMD dynamic range: Not specied.
Receive and transmit, as specied. Receive, 0.7 A; transmit, 9.2 A. Tested at 13.8 V. As specied. Receiver Dynamic Testing For 10 dB S+N/N: 120 MHz, 1.9 V. For 12 dB SINAD: 144 MHz, 0.17 V; 430 MHz, 0.18 V. 20 kHz offset: 146 MHz, 63 dB; 440 MHz, 54 dB. 10 MHz offset: 146 MHz, 78 dB; 440 MHz, 68 dB. 76 dB. 20 kHz offset: 146 MHz, 63 dB; 440 MHz, 61 dB. First IF rejection, 146 MHz, 131 dB**; 440 MHz, >135 dB.** Image rejection, 146 MHz, 93 dB; 440 MHz, 111 dB. S9 indication: 146 MHz, 1.7 V; 440 MHz, 2.1 V. At threshold: 146 MHz and 440 MHz, 0.11 V. 2.6 W at 10% THD into 8. Transmitter Dynamic Testing 146 MHz, 48/18/4.2 W; 440 MHz, 33/19/5 W. VHF, 67 dB; UHF, 72 dB. Meets FCC requirements. S9 signal, 146 MHz, 195 ms; 440 MHz, 121 ms. 146 and 440 MHz, 157 ms.
FM two-tone, second-order IMD dynamic range: Not specied. FM adjacent-channel rejection: Not specied. Spurious and image rejection: 70 dB.
S-meter sensitivity: Not specied. Squelch sensitivity: 0.13 V. Audio output: 2 W at 10% THD into 8. Transmitter Power output (H/M/L): 144 MHz, 50/20/5 W; 430 MHz, 35/20/5 W. Spurious and harmonic suppression: 60 dB. Transmit-receive turnaround time (PTT release to 50% audio output): Not specied. Receive-transmit turnaround time (tx delay): Not specied.

several friends who know my voice for a critical evaluation of the transmit audio. Their response was positive, though one friend noted what seemed to be a little distortion when I spoke in low tones. Overall the audio quality seemed fine to my ear. The EMS-57 mic provides a comfortable alternative to using the front panel control buttons. On the top of the microphone are UP/DOWN buttons that duplicate the functions of the main dial on the front panel. The microphone includes a 16 button keypad for direct frequency entry and DTMF functions. Some of the buttons have secondary functions to change bands, access the call channel, change between VFO and memory mode and change power level. Overall I found the Alinco DR-635T to be durable, attractive and easy to use. Its compact size and detachable faceplate make it appealing to someone with limited space in the car for mounting the radio. It has features that appeal to the newcomer or the experienced operator looking to replace an older radio or add a new toy to the collection. Manufacturer: Distributed in the US by Ham Distribution Inc, 15 South Trade Center Pkwy #B5, Conroe, TX 77385; tel 936-2713366; www.alinco.com. Price: DR-635T, $369; EDS-9 separation kit, $45; EJ-47U digital voice module, $179; EJ-50U TNC module, $129.
W4RRY ELECTRONIC BATTERY BOOSTER AVAILABLE AGAIN
We have been informed by Leo Lehner, W4RRY, that his Battery Booster, reviewed in the October 2005 issue of QST, is again available. Leo has contracted with a manufacturing concern reportedly capable of meeting demand. Per Leo, the new price is $115 plus $5 for shipping. To order, send a check to Leo Lehner, 5811 E Crocus Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85254.
Size (height, width, depth): main unit, 1.65.57.3 inches; weight, 2.2 pounds. Note: Unless otherwise noted, all dynamic range measurements are taken at the ARRL Lab standard spacing of 20 kHz.
*WFM only for 87.5-108 MHz and AM only for 108-136 MHz. **Measurement was noise-limited.
special NOAA weather alert feature that is incorporated into some other FM mobile/base transceivers. The 635T has a wide range of variable settings that allows the owner to set up the radio to best suit his or her needs. For example, you can install the radio so that it turns on and off with the ignition switch in your vehicle. Or you can enable the APO (automatic power off) mode to turn the radio off after 30 minutes of inactivity. If your radio is programmed to open the receiver only when a special tone is transmitted (a popular feature similar to a paging function), this transceiver can be set to sound an alert bell to beckon you to the radio. One special function worth noting is a unique anti-theft alarm that sounds a tone if an alarm cable is removed or cut.

With the addition of an optional digital unit (EJ-47U) it is possible to use the 635T for digital voice communication. APRS is also possible with this transceiver if the optional TNC (EJ-50U) unit and an external GPS unit are installed. The review transceiver did not include these options.
Once programmed with my favorite frequencies, the DR-635T was easy to use. It has all of the basic features I need for VHF/UHF FM operation. In response to a query to the ARRL Lab, I paid some special attention to the transmit and receive audio. On receive, it seemed a bit restricted at the low end of the bass range, but this did not distract from the readability of received stations. I also asked
The ARRL-purchased equipment listed below is for sale to the highest bidder. Prices quoted on the Web page are the minimum acceptable bids, and are discounted from the purchase prices. All equipment is sold without warranty except as noted. Details of equipment offered and bidding instructions can be found on the ARRL members Web page at www.arrl.org/prauction. The following items are available for bid in the March auction: Kuranishi BR-210 SWR analyzer. Hy-Gain HAM-V antenna rotator and DCU-1 digital controller. MFJ860 wattmeter. Vectronics LP-30 low-pass filter. Icom ID-800 digital VHF/UHF mobile FM transceiver. Yaesu VX-6R multiband handheld transceiver.

SHORT TAKES

OSCAR 52 and the International Space Station reception. Since I was also occasionally transmitting on the same antenna, I needed a preamp that could automatically switch itself out of the circuit. The ARR model SP144VDA seemed well suited for the job. This 2 meter preamplifier is RF switched, which means that it automatically bypasses itself whenever it senses RF above a certain threshold. You simply supply the necessary power and the SP144VDA does the rest. The SP144VDA handles up to 25 W, which was fine for my purposes. In terms of gain, the SP144VDA delivers 15 dB with its dualgate MOSFET design. Unfortunately, gain isnt everything when it comes to boosting receive signals. The real trick is to increase gain without adding excessive extraneous noise. There will always be noise to one degree or another, but less is definitely better. The SP144VDA specifies a noise figure of 1.1 dB. Our ARRL Lab tests determined that the preamp we purchased met its gain spec at an even better noise figure of 0.85 dB.

When most hams think of RF loss in transmission lines, their obsession is focused on loss of output power. Its galling to realize that even a single milliwatt of precious RF is lost on the way to the antenna, much less 10s of watts or more. What many hams dont understand, however, is that this loss problem also works in reverse. RF is RF is RF, regardless of whether it comes from your transceiver or is snagged from the space-time continuum by your antenna. In other words, not only do you lose transmitted power in your cables, you lose received signal energy as well. The loss problem is particularly acute when you venture into the VHF, UHF and microwave bands. Depending on the frequency, matching conditions and the length and quality of your coax, losses can be horrendous. Until the day arrives when scientists develop room-temperature superconducting transmission lines, these losses will continue to vex us. On the transmit side, you can compensate for loss to a certain extent by boosting your output. To minimize received signal loss, you need a receive preamplifier.
Introducing the SP144VDA Advanced Receiver Research (ARR) is well-known in the weak signal VHF/UHF community. The company has a reputation for producing high-quality commercial and amateur products. For my particular application, I needed something to give 2 meter satellite signals a kick. I was using an omnidirectional antenna for VuSAT-
Interior view of the SP144VDA.
Installation and Use The SP144VDA is quite small at only 2 inches with a total weight of 5 ounces. The rugged black enclosure offers BNC RF ports, a ground terminal and a feedthrough capacitor tap for the hot side of the dc power source (10 to 16 V). A tiny toggle switch controls the ON/OFF state and a red LED serves as the indicator. Note that the SP144VDA is not designed for outdoor use (ARR offers weatherproof mast-mounted preamps for that purpose). I have a short coax run to the 2 meter antenna, so there was no need to have the preamp on the mast. For longer transmission lines, however, mast mounting is the preferred choice. You want to raise the received signal level before the coaxial cable converts most of it to heat, not after. My SP144VDA fit nicely under my operating desk, out of sight and out of mind. Performance was outstanding. VO-52 signals that were almost inaudible with my omni antenna popped right out of the noise to crystal clarity. Best of all, the increase in signal level didnt come with a noticeable increase in noise it was just pure, clean amplification. This was in stark contrast to the preamp built into my transceiver. Yes, it boosted the signal levels, but it also added a noticeable amount of noise. Not so with the SP144VDA. Whenever I transmitted, I could hear a muffled click as the SP144VDAs relay switched the preamp out of the circuit. There is about a 12 second delay before the relay returns the SP144VDA to the circuit after you stop transmitting. For voice communication, this isnt an issue, but it might present problems for data exchanges or high-speed CW. Although the preamp is rated for 25 W of RF, I accidentally blasted it with about 60 W with no ill effects. This isnt something Id recommend doing on a regular basis, though! The SP144VDA is a worthy addition to any terrestrial or satellite station. The quality is obvious in its construction and performance. The price is right on target, too. Manufacturer: Advanced Receiver Research, Box 1242, Burlington CT 06013; tel 860-485-0310; fax 860-485-0311; e-mail info@advancedreceiver.com; www.advancedreceiver.com/ index1.html. $77.95