Vertex Standard VX-8R User manual

FCC ID: K6620295X20

IC :511B-20295X20

Operating Manual

VertexStandardCo.,Ltd.1

Operating Manual

General Description

The VX-8R is a Dual Receive fourthband FM transceiver with extensive receive

frequency coverage, providing leading-edge features for VHF and UHF two-way amateur

communications along with unmatched monitoring capability.

The VX-8R’s small size allows you to take it anywhere - hiking, skiing, or while walking

around town, and its operating flexibility brings the user many avenues of operating

enjoyment. Besides 50, 144, (225MHz) and 430 MHz transceive operation, the VX-8R

provides receive coverage of the AM (MF) and FM broadcast bands, HF Shortwave Bands

up to 30 MHz, VHF and UHF TV bands, the VHF AM aircraft band, and a wide range of

commercial and public safety frequencies! And the optional Barometer pressure Sensor Unit

provides readout of barometric pressure and altitude while mountain climbing or hiking.

The transmitter section provides 5 Watts of clean power output on the FM operation on

the 50 MHz, 144 MHz, and 430 MHz bands with the supplied FNB-101LI Battery Pack, and

5 Watts output on 145MHz and 430 MHz, （1.5 Watts output on 225MHz）also 1.0 Watts

output on AM operation on 50 MHz. A wide variety of tone signaling formats are built into the

VX-8R, in addition to Yaesu’s exclusive ARTSTM-(Auto-Range Transponder System), which

“beeps” the user when you move out of communications range with another

ARTSTM-equipped station.

We appreciate your purchase of the VX-8R, and encourage you to read this manual

thoroughly, so as to learn about the many exciting features of your exciting new Yaesu

hand-held transceiver!

Front Panel Control & Switches

DIAL Knob

LED Light

EAR Jack

EXT DC Jack

PWR Switch

Speaker

MIC

Keypad

Antenna Jack

MIC/SP Jack

PTT Switch

MONI Key

VOL Key

F/W Key

FCC ID: K6620295X20

IC :511B-20295X20

Operating Manual

VertexStandardCo.,Ltd.2

Control & Connections

Antenna Jack Connect the supplied rubber flex antenna (or another antenna

presenting a 50-Ohm impedance) here.

MIC/SP Jack This 7-pin miniature jack connects an optional MH-74A6J Speaker

Microphone or MH-74 GPS receiver Speaker Microphone.

DIAL Knob The main tuning Dial is used for setting the operating frequency, and is

used for audio volume level, menu selections, and other adjustments.

LED Light This white LED glow (or flash) during “Emergency Channel” operation.

Also, this LED can be useful as a flash light in a dark environment via

the Menu Mode Item 55: LED LIGHT.

PTT Switch Press this switch inward to transmit, and release it (to receive) after

your transmission is completed.

MONI Key Pressing this key disables the noise squelching action, allowing you to

hear very weak signals near the background noise level.

VOL Key Rotate the DIAL knob while pressing and holding this key to adjust the

audio volume level.

F/W Key Pressing this key activates the “Alternate” key function of the keypad.

EAR Jack This 3-pin miniature jack allows connection to stereo earphone.

When using after-market stereo earphones with this jack, you may

enjoy the FM broadcast band in stereo.

EXT DC Jack This coaxial DC jack allows connection to an external DC power source

(10-16V DC). The center pin of this jack is the Positive (+) line.

PWR Switch Press and hold this switch for 2 seconds to toggle the transceiver’s

power “on” and “off”.

Press this switch momentarily while the transceiver is turned “on” to

toggle the key lockout feature “on” or “off”.

Speaker The internal speaker is located hear.

Keypad These front panel’s 20 keypads select many of the most important

operating features on the VX-8R.

These functions of the keys are described in details on pages 4 and 5.

MIC The internal microphone is located hear.

FCC ID: K6620295X20

IC :511B-20295X20

Operating Manual

VertexStandardCo.,Ltd.3

Keypad Function

Key Primary Function

(Press key)

Secondary Function

(Press + [F/W] key)

Third Function

(Press & Hold key)

[A] Switches the “Upper”

frequency to be the

“Operating” (TX)

Band.

Switches the “Upper”

frequency display

between the “Large

Character” and

“Small Character”

mode.

Activates the Dual

Receive Feature.

[B] Switches the “Lower”

frequency to be the

“Operating” (TX)

Band.

Switches the “Lower”

frequency display

between the “Large

Character” and

“Small Character”

mode.

Activates the Dual

Receive Feature.

[UP] Increases the VFO

frequency by one

step or moves the

memory channel to

the next-highest

channel.

Tunes the VFO

frequency upward in

1 MHz steps.

Activates the

Scanner Upward

(toward a higher

frequency or a higher

channel number).

[DOWN] Decreases the VFO

frequency by one

step or moves the

memory channel to

the next-lowest

channel.

Tunes the VFO

frequency downward

in 1 MHz steps.

Activates the

Scanner Downward

(toward a lower

frequency or a lower

channel number).

[MENU] Activate the APRS

(Automatic Position

Reporting System)

function.

No Action Enter the Menu

Mode.

[BAND] (1) Moves operation

to the next-highest

frequency band.

Moves operation to

the next-lowest

frequency band

Activates the

Scanner Upward

(toward a higher

FCC ID: K6620295X20

IC :511B-20295X20

Operating Manual

VertexStandardCo.,Ltd.4

(2) Activates the

Memory Bank

feature.

frequency or a higher

channel number).

[MODE] Selects the receive

mode among AM,

FM, and Wide FM.

Activates the CTCSS

or DCS operation.

Engage the Special

Search mode.

[HM/RV] Reverses transmit

and receive

frequencies while

working through a

repeater.

Switches operation to

the “Home” (favorite

frequency) channel.

Activates the

EMERGENCY

function.

[V/M] Switches frequency

control between the

VFO and Memory

System.

Activates the

“Memory Tune” mode

while in the Memory

Recall mode.

Activates the Priority

(Dual Watch)

function.

[Internet] Activates the Internet

Connection feature.

Selects the desired

transmit power

output level.

No Action.

[1] Frequency entry digit

“1”.

Selects the

synthesizer steps to

be used during VFO

operation.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “1”.

[2] Frequency entry digit

“2”.

Selects the CTCSS

Tone or DCS code

number.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “2”.

[3] Frequency entry digit

“3”.

Selects the DTMF

mode.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “3”.

[4] Frequency entry digit

“4”.

Activates the ARTS

feature.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “4”.

FCC ID: K6620295X20

IC :511B-20295X20

Operating Manual

VertexStandardCo.,Ltd.5

[5] Frequency entry digit

“5”.

Activates the

Memory Scan “Skip”

channel selection

mode.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “5”.

[6] Frequency entry digit

“6”.

Selects the direction

of the uplink

frequency shift

(either “-”, “+” or

“simplex” during

repeater operation.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “6”.

[7] Frequency entry digit

“7”.

Activates the AF Dual

function while

receiving the

Broadcast Stations.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “7”.

[8] Frequency entry digit

“8”.

Activates the

Spectrum Analyzer

(Spectra-ScopeTM)

feature.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “8”.

[9] Frequency entry digit

“9”.

Enters the “Special

Memory” mode.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “9”.

[0] Frequency entry digit

“0”.

Enters the Broadcast

Reception mode.

Store the current

setting into the Direct

Memory Recall

Channel “0”.

[MONI/T-CALL] USA Version:

Disables the Noise

and Tone Squelch

System.

EXP Version:

Activates the T.CALL

(1750 Hz) for

repeater access.

Adjusts the Squelch

threshold level.

USA Version:

Disables the Noise

and Tone Squelch

System.

EXP Version:

Activates the T.CALL

(1750 Hz) for

repeater access.

FCC ID: K6620295X20

IC :511B-20295X20

Operating Manual

VertexStandardCo.,Ltd.6

[VOL] No Action Toggle the DIAL knob

function between the

“Frequency Control”

and “Receiver Audio

Control”.

Rotate the DIAL knob

while holding this key

to adjust the audio

volume level.

[F/W] Activates the

“Secondary” key

function.

Disables the

“Secondary” key

function.

Activates the

“Memory Write”

mode (for memory

channel storage).

Note: The [A] and [B] keys glows green when the squelch opens, and turns red during

transmission.

Accessories & Options

Accessories Supplied with the VX-8R

YHA-65 (Q3000185) Antenna

FNB-101LI (AAG10X001) Lithium Ion Battery Pack (7.4V/1,100mAh)

NC-86B (Q9500149) Battery Charger

Belt Clip (RA1053600)

Operating Manual

Warranty Card

Available Options for your VX-8R

FNB-101LI Lithium Ion Battery Pack (7.4V/1,100mAh)

FNB-102LI Lithium Ion Battery Pack (7.4V/1,800mAh)

NC-86B/C/F/U Battery Charger

CD-41 Rapid Charger

FBA-39 3 x “AA” Cell Battery Case (batteries not supplied)

FGPS-2 GPS Antenna

MH-74 Speaker/Microphone

BU-1 Bluetooth Adapter Unit

BH-1 Bluetooth Headset w/Stereo Earphone Jack

BH-2 Bluetooth Headset

CT-131 Microphone Adapter

CT-134 GPS Antenna Adapter

CN-3 BNC-to-SMAAdapter

E-DC-5B DC Cable w/Noise Filter

FCC ID: K6620295X20

IC :511B-20295X20

Operating Manual

VertexStandardCo.,Ltd.7

E-DC-6 DC Cable; plug and wire only

CSC-98 Soft Case

Availability of accessories may vary. Some accessories are supplied as standard per local

requirements, while others may be unavailable in some regions. Consult your Yaesu Dealer

for details regarding these and any newly-available options. Connection of any

non-Yaesu-approved accessory, should it cause damage, may void the Limited Warranty on

this apparatus.

Installation of Accessories

Antenna Installation

The supplied antenna provides good results over the entire frequency range of the

transceiver. However, for enhanced base station medium-wave and shortwave reception,

you may wish to connect an external (outside) antenna.

The supplied antenna consists of two sections: the “Base Antenna” (used for operation

above 50 MHz), and the “Extender Element” (used for monitoring of frequencies below 50

MHz).

To Install the Supplied Antenna

Hold the bottom end of the antenna, then screw it onto the mating connector on the

transceiver until it is snug. Do not over-tighten by use of extreme force.

When operating the VX-8R on the 50 MHz band and lower frequencies, disconnect the

antenna cap from the base antenna, then screw the Extender Element onto the Antenna

Base. Of course, the VX-8R may be operated on frequencies higher than the 50 MHz band

while the Extender Element is still attached onto theAntenna Base.

Notes:

•Never transmit without having an antenna connected.

•When installing the supplied antenna, never hold the upper part of the antenna while

screwing it onto the mating connector on the transceiver.

•If using an external antenna for transmission, ensure that the SWR presented to the

transceiver is 1.5:1 or lower.

•Take care not lose the antenna cap when removing it from the Base Antenna.

Installation of FNB-101LI Battery Pack

The FNB-101LI is a high-performance Lithium-Ion battery providing high capacity in a very

compact package. Under normal use, the FNB-101LI may be used for approximately 300

charge cycles, after which operating time may be expected to decrease. If you have an old

FCC ID: K6620295X20

IC :511B-20295X20

Operating Manual

VertexStandardCo.,Ltd.8

battery pack which is displaying capacity which has become diminished, you should replace

the pack with a new one.

1. Install the FNB-101LI as shown in the illustration.

2. Close the Battery Pack Latch on the bottom of the radio.

If the battery has never been used, or its charge is depleted, it may be charged by

connecting the NC-86B/C Battery Charger, as shown in the illustration, to the EXT DC jack.

If only 12 ~ 16 Volt DC power is available, the optional

E-DC-5B or E-DC-6 DC Adapter (with its cigarette lighter plug) may also be used for

charging the battery, as shown in the illustration.

While the battery is being charged, the display will indicate “CHARGING” and the key will

glow red. The S-meter will deflect according to the charging status. When charging is

finished, the display will change to indicate “COMPLETE” and the key will glow green.

Installation of FBA-39 Alkaline Battery Case (Option)

The optional FBA-39 Battery Case allows receive monitoring using three “AA” size Alkaline

batteries. Alkaline batteries can also be used for transmission in an emergency, but power

output will only be selectable 1 W and 50 mW.

To Install Alkaline Batteries into the FBA-39

1. Slide the batteries into the FBA-39 as shown in the illustration, with the Negative [–]

side of the batteries touching the spring connections inside the FBA-39.

2. Open the Battery Pack Latch on the bottom of the radio.

3. Install the FBA-39 as shown in the illustration, with the [+] side facing the bottom of the

transceiver.

4. Close the Battery Pack Latch on the bottom of the radio.

The FBA-39 does not provide connections for charging, since Alkaline cells cannot be

re-charged. Therefore, the NC-86B/C, E-DC-5B, or E-DC-6 may safely be connected to the

EXT DC jack when the FBA-39 is installed.

Notes:

•The FBA-39 is designed for use only with AA-type Alkaline cells.

•If you do not use the VX-8R for a long time, remove the Alkaline batteries from the

FBA-39, as battery leakage could cause damage to the FBA-39 and/or the transceiver.

Battery Life Information

When the battery charge is almost depleted, a “Low Voltage” indicator will appear on the

display. When this icon appears, it is recommended that you charge the battery soon.

FCC ID: K6620295X20

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(1) TX 6 sec., RX 6 sec. and Squelched 48 sec.

(2) Continuous signal reception

The current battery voltage can be displayed manually on the LCD, by following the

instructions on page ??.

Battery capacity may be reduced during extremely cold weather operation. Keeping the

radio inside your parka may help preserve the full charge capacity.

AC Operation Using NC-86B/C (Receiving only)

The VX-8R may be operated from your house current by use of the supplied NC-86B/C

Battery Charger. The NC-86B/C should only be used for reception, because it is not capable

of supplying sufficient current to support transmission.

To use the NC-86B/C, turn the transceiver off, then plug the miniature connector of the

Battery Charger into the EXT DC jack on the side of the radio. Now plug the Battery Charger

into the wall outlet. You may now turn on the transceiver.

Interface of Packet TNC

The VX-8R may be used for Packet operation, using the optional CT-131 microphone

adapter (availablefrom your Yaesu dealer) for easy interconnection to commonly-available

connectors wired to your TNC. You may also build your own cable using a four-conductor

miniature phone plug, per the diagram below.

The audio level from the receiver to the TNC may be adjusted by using the VOLUME knob,

as with voice operation. The input level to the VX-8R from the TNC should be adjusted at the

TNC side; the optimum input voltage is approximately 5 mV at 2000 Ohms.

Be sure to turn the transceiver and TNC off before connecting the cables, so as to prevent

voltage spikes from possibly damaging your transceiver.

Operation

Note: Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the many features of the

VX-8R. I know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I encourage you to read the “Operation”

section of this manual as thoroughly as possible, so you’ll get the most out of this fantastic

new transceiver. Now, let’s get operating!

Switching Power On and Off

1. Be sure the battery pack is installed, and that the battery is fully charged. Connect the

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antenna to the top panel ANTENNA jack.

2. Press and hold in the [PWR] switch (on the right side of the front panel) for 2 seconds.

Two beeps will be heard when the switch has been held long enough, and the opening

message will appear on the display, then frequency display will appear. After another

two seconds, the receive-mode Battery Saver function will become active, unless you

have disabled it (see page ??).

3. To turn the VX-8R off, press and hold in the [PWR] switch again for 2 seconds.

Note: If you don’t hear the two “Beep” tones when the radio comes on, the Beeper may have

been disabled via the Menu system. See page ??, which tells you how to reactivate the

Beeper.

Adjusting the Volume Level

Rotate the DIALknob while pressing and holding the [VOL] key to set the desired audio level.

Clockwise rotation increases the volume level.

The Volume level may be set on the “Main” and “Sub” bands separately.

Squelch Adjustment

The VX-8R’s Squelch system allows you to mute the background noise when no signal is

being received. Not only does the Squelch system make “standby” operation more pleasant,

it also significantly reduces battery current consumption.

The Squelch system may be adjusted independently for the FM and Wide-FM (FM

Broadcast) modes.

1. Press the [F/W] key, then press the [MONI/T-CALL] key on the left side of the radio.

This provides a “Short-cut” to Menu Item 96: SQL LEVEL.

2. Now, rotate the DIAL knob to set the background noise is just silenced (typically at a

setting of about “3” or “4” on the scale); this is point of maximum sensitivity to weak

signals.

3. When you are satisfied with the Squelch threshold setting, press the PTT key

momentarily to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.

4. You may also adjust the Squelch setting by using the “Set” (Menu) mode. See page ??

for details.

Note 1: The Squelch level may be set on the “Main” and “Sub” bands separately.

Note 2: If you’re operating in an area of high RF pollution, you may need to consider “Tone

Squelch” operation using the built-in CTCSS Decoder. This feature will keep your radio quiet

until a call is received from a station sending a carrier which contains a matching

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