Introduction The VX-150 is an ultra compact FM hand-held providing up to five watts of RF power and a wealth of new features for the 2m amateur band. The VX-150 accepts the same battery packs, and has rubber gasket seals around all external controls and connectors keep out dust and rain or spray, assuring years of reliable operation even in harsh environments. Sixteen multi-function keys provide the ultimate in programmability of 199 freely tunable memories and two VFOs.
Controls & Connectors TOP P ANEL • ANTENNA Jack This SMC jack accepts the supplied YHA-?? rubber flex antenna, or any other antenna designed to provide 50-ohm impedance on the 2m band. ‚ VOL/OFF Control This control adjusts the volume of the receiver. Turn this control to the fully counterclockwise position (into the click stop) to turn the transceiver OFF.
Controls & Connectors SIDE PANELS • PTT Button Press and hold this (Push-to-Talk) button to transmit. The BUSY/TX indicator glows red while transmitting. ‚ Monitor (Burst) Button In the USA version, this button opens the squelch momentarily without disturbing the setting of the SQL control. In the European version, this button activates the 1750 Hz Burst tone generator. ƒ LAMP Button Press this button to illuminate the display and keypad when necessary.
Controls & Connectors FRONT PANELS • Speaker The internal speaker is located directly below the display. ‚ Mic The internal microphone is located at the bottom right-hand corner of the speaker. ƒ Keypad These sixteen keys select the various operating features of the transceiver during reception, and generate DTMF (Dual Tone Multi Frequency) tone pairs during transmission. One or two beeps will sound whenever one of the keys is pressed (if the beeper is active).
Accessories & Options ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED WITH THE VX-150 FNB-V57 7.2 V, 1100 mAh Ni-Cd Battery Pack FC-72A/B/C/F/U Battery Chareger Belt Clip Hand Strap Antenna Operating Manual Warranty Card AVAILABLE OPTIONS FOR YOUR VX-150 FNB-V57 FNB-62 FBA-25 NC-72A NC-72B NC-72C NC-72U NC-73 MH-34B4B MH-37A4B VC-25 E-DC-5B E-DC-6 CSC-73 CN-3 CT-44 YHA-?? 7.2 V, 1100 mAh Ni-Cd Battery Pack 7.
Installation & 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. 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.
Installation & Accessories To remove the battery, turn the radio off and remove any protective cases. Open the Battery Pack latch on the bottom of the radio, then slide the battery downward and out from the radio while unfolding the Belt Clip. Do not attempt to open any of the rechargeable Ni-Cd packs, as they could explode if accidentally short-circuited.
Operation PRELIMINARY OPERATING INFORMATION Before operating the transceiver for the first time, charge the battery pack completely (if using Ni-Cd batteries) as described on pages 6 and 7. If using the FBA-25 battery case, install the batteries as described on page 7. Connect the YHA-?? rubber flex antenna to the antenna jack on the top of the transceiver. Never operate the transceiver without an antenna connected.
Operation Note that while receiving, one or more bargraph segments may appear along the bottom of the display, indicating signal strength on the receiving frequency. This indication is not affected by the squelch setting, so even squelched signals may have some indication. If you notice more than one or two bargraph segments appearing while the squelch is still closed, try reducing the squelch control setting (if you want to hear weak signals).
Operation TRANSMITTING When you wish to transmit, wait until the channel is clear (BUSY/TX lamp off), and squeeze the PTT switch. During transmission the BUSY/TX lamp glows red, and relative transmitter power output is indicated graphically along the bottom of the display. Release the PTT switch to receive. If using a version B (in Europe), press the T-CALL switch (above the PTT switch) to transmit a 1750 Hz tone to access repeaters that require it.
Operation KEYPAD/LCD ILLUMINATION Your VX-150 includes a reddish illumination lamp which aids in nighttime operation. The red illumination yields clear viewing of the display in a dark environment, with minimal degradation of your night vision. Three options for activating the lamp are provided: KEY Mode: Pressing any key causes the lamp to provide illumination for 5 seconds, after which the lamp will automatically shut off.
Advanced Operation REPEATER OPERATION The ARS (Automatic Repeater Shift) feature in the VX-150 provides repeater shift of the transmit frequency whenever you are tuned to a standard repeater subband (see diagram below). When enabled, a small “–” or “+” displayed above the upper left-hand corner of the display that repeater shift is active, and closing the push-to-talk switch changes the display to the (shifted) transmit frequency.
Advanced Operation Changing the Default Repeater Shifts If you travel to a different country, you may need to change the default repeater shift so as to ensure compatibility with local operating requirements. To do this, follow the procedure below: • Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. RPT RPT”). ‚ Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #3 (“RPT ƒ Press the [F/W] key to enable modification of the current setting.
Advanced Operation CTCSS O PERATION Many repeater systems require that a very-low-frequency audio tone be superimposed on your FM carrier in order to activate the repeater. This helps prevent false activation of the repeater by radar or spurious signals from other transmitters. This tone system, called “CTCSS” (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System), is included in your VX-150, and is very easy to activate. CTCSS setup involves two actions: setting the Tone Frequency and then setting of the Tone Mode.
Advanced Operation DCS OPERATION Another form of tone access control is Digital Code Squelch, or DCS. It is a newer, more advanced tone system which generally provides more immunity from false paging than does CTCSS. The DCS Encoder/Decoder is built into your VX-150, and operation is very similar to that just described for CTCSS. Your repeater system may be configured for DCS; if not, it is frequently quite useful in Simplex operation if your friend(s) use transceivers equipped with this advanced feature.
Advanced Operation TONE S EARCH SCANNING In operating situations where you don’t know the CTCSS or DCS tone being used by another station or stations, you can command the radio to listen to the incoming signal and scan in search of the tone being used. Two things must be remembered in this regard: m You must be sure that your repeater uses the same tone type (CTCSS vs. DCS).
Advanced Operation CTCSS/DCS BELL OPERATION During CTCSS Decode or DCS operation, you may set the VX-150 up such that a ringing “Bell” sound alerts you to the fact that a call is coming in. Here is the procedure for activating the Bell will ring in accordance with this programming. • Set the transceiver up for CTCSS Decode (“TONE SQL” or DCS operation, as described previously. ‚ Adjust the operating frequency to the desired channel.
Advanced Operation CHANGING THE TRANSMITTER POWER LEVEL You can select between a total of three transmitter power levels on your VX-150. The exact power output will vary somewhat, depending on the voltage supplied to the transceiver. With the standard FNB-V57 Battery Pack, the power output levels available are: HIGH HIGH: ?? W MID MID: ?? W LOW LOW: ?? W To change the power level: • Press the [F/W] key, then immediately press the [3(LOW)] key. LOW MID HIGH LOW”, “MID MID” or “HIGH HIGH”.
Advanced Operation RECEIVE BATTERY SAVER SETUP An important feature of the VX-150 is its Receive Battery Saver, which “puts the radio to sleep” for a time interval, periodically “waking it up” to check for activity. If somebody is talking on the channel, the VX-150 will remain in the “active” mode, then resume its “sleep” cycles.
Advanced Operation DISABLING THE BUSY/TX LED Further battery conservation may be accomplished by disabling the BUSY/TX LED. Use the following procedure: • Press the [F/W] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. BSY LED LED”). ‚ Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #12 (“BSY [ ] Press the F/W key to enable adjustment of this Menu item. ƒ Rotate the DIAL to set this Menu item to OFF (thus disabling the BUSY/TX LED). „ … Press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
Advanced Operation KEYBOARD LOCKING In order to prevent accidental frequency change or inadvertent transmission, various aspects of the VX-150’s keys and switches may be locked out.
Advanced Operation DTMF OPERATION The VX-150’s 16-button keypad allows easy DTMF dialing for Autopatch or repeater control purposes. Besides numerical digits [0] through [9], the keypad includes the [Û] and [#] digits, plus the [A], [B], [C], and [D] tones often used for repeater control. Manual DTMF Tone Generation You can generate DTMF tones during transmission manually. • Press the PTT switch to begin transmission. ‚ While transmitting, press the desired numbers on the keypad.
Advanced Operation DTMF CODE SQUELCH (REQUIRES OPTIONAL FVP-25 ) 000 ~ 999 The code squelch system use 3-digit numeric codes (000 999), transmitted as DTMF (dual, audible) tone pairs. There are twelve code memories numbered [1 ] ~ [9], [A] and [D], which store 3-digit DTMF paging codes (these are independent and unrelated to the channel memories and the VFOs).
Advanced Operation You can use the same procedure to store the Memory Codes of other individuals or groups in Code Memories [1] ~ [9]. Although up to nine Code Memories can be stored, you might only need a few of them to call your friends or a specific group. Likewise, you’ll probably only want your radio to respond to pages directed to you (or maybe your group or club’s code). The following explains how to temporarily inhibit unused Code Memories.
Advanced Operation PAGING TX DELAY When calling other stations using Code Squelch, particularly through repeaters, you may find that some stations are unable to receive your calls. This can be caused by their receiver squelch not opening fast enough (after receiving your transmitted carrier) to allow all of the DTMF digits to be received and decoded. To correct this problem, you can set a longer delay (750 ms) between the time your transmitter is keyed and the time the first DTMF digit is sent.
Advanced Operation ANI OPERATION (AUTOMATIC NUMBER IDENTIFICATION) Because it isn’t decided, it sends later.
Advanced Operation ARTS (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM) The ARTS feature uses DCS signaling to inform both parties when you and another ARTSequipped station are within communications range. This may be particularly useful during Search-and Rescue situations, where is important to stay in contact with other members of your group. Both stations must set up their DCS codes to the same code number, then activate their ARTS feature using the command appropriate for their radio.
Advanced Operation ARTS Polling Time Options The ARTS feature may be programmed to poll every 15 seconds (default value) or 25 seconds. The default value provides maximum battery conservation, because the polling signal is sent out less frequently. To change the polling interval: • Press the [F/W] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to enter the Set mode. AR ITVL ITVL”). ‚ Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #15 (“AR [ ] Press the F/W key to enable changing of this Menu item.
Advanced Operation CW Identifier Setup The ARTS feature includes a CW identifier, as discussed previously. Every ten minutes during ARTS operation, the radio can be instructed to send “DE (your callsign) K” if this feature is enabled. The callsign field may contain up to 16 characters. Here’s how to program the CW Identifier: • Press the [F/W] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to enter the Set mode. CW ID ID”).
Memory Mode The VX-150 provides a wide variety of memory system resources. These include: 1 ” through “199 199 m 199 “Standard” memory channels, numbered “1 199.” m A Home channel per band, allowing storage and quick recall of one prime frequency on each band. m Ten sets of band-edge memories also known as “Programming Memory Scan” chanL1 U1 L5 U5 U5” nels, labeled “L1 L1/U1 U1” through “L5 L5/U5 MEMORY STORAGE • Select the desired frequency, while operating in the VFO mode.
Memory Mode HOME CHANNEL M EMORY A special one-touch “HOME” channel is available to allow quick recall of a favorite operating frequency. Memory storage is simple to accomplish: REV HM REV/HM HM”) • Set Menu Item #20 (“REV HOME to “HOME HOME” if it is not already set to that option (see page ??). ‚ Select the desired frequency, while operating in the VFO mode. Be sure to set up any desired CTCSS or DCS tones, as well as any desired repeater offset.
Memory Mode MEMORY OFFSET TUNING Once you have recalled a particular memory channel, you may easily tune off that channel, as though you were in the “VFO” mode. MR MR” (Memory Recall) mode, select the desired memory • With the VX-150 in the “MR channel. MR MR” indicator will be blinking. ‚ Now press the [MR(SKIP)] key momentarily. The “MR ƒ Rotate the DIAL, as desired, to tune to a new frequency.
Memory Mode Memory Only Mode This allows operation only on stored memories, which are displayed by name (if any) at the right, and the memory channel number to the left. No frequency is displayed, and only CH.nn “CH.nn CH.nn” appear if you haven’t assigned name to a memory. Repeater shift and tone setting indicators are displayed, although they cannot be changed. • Turn the radio off. ‚ Press and hold the [PTT] and [LAMP] key while turning the radio on. MEM.ONLY MEM.ONLY”. ƒ Rotate the DIAL to select “MEM.
Scanning The VX-150 allows you to scan just the memory channels, the operating band, or a portion of that band. It will halt on signals encountered, so you can talk to the station(s) on that frequency, if you like. Scanning operation is basically the same in each of the above modes. Before you begin, take a moment to select the way in which you would like the scanner to resume scanning after it halts on a signal.
Scanning VFO SCANNING This mode allows you to scan the entire current operating band. • Select the VFO mode by pressing the [VFO(PRI)] key, if necessary. ‚ Press and hold in the [s] or [t] key for one second to start scanning. ƒ If and when the scanner encounters a signal strong enough to open the squelch, the scanner will halt temporarily; the decimal point of the frequency display will blink during this “Pause” condition.
Scanning PROGRAMMABLE (BAND LIMIT ) MEMORY SCAN (PMS) This feature allows you to set sub-band limits for either scanning or manual VFO operation. For example, you might wish to set up a limit (in North America) of 144.300 MHz to 148.000 MHz so as to prevent encroachment into the SSB/CW “Weak Signal” portion of the band below 144.300 MHz. Here’s how to do this: • Set the radio to the VFO mode by pressing the [VFO(PRI )] key, if necessary.
Scanning AUTOMATIC LAMP ILLUMINATION ON SCAN S TOP The VX-150 will automatically illuminate the LCD Lamp whenever the scanner stops on a signal; this allows you to see the frequency of the incoming signal better at night. Note that this will, of course, increase the battery consumption, so be sure to switch it off during the day (the default condition for this feature is “ON”. The procedure for disabling the Scan Lamp is: • Press the [F/W] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to enter the Set mode.
Smart Search Operation The Smart Search feature allows you to load frequencies automatically according to where activity is encountered by your radio.
Interface of Packet TNCs The VX-150 may be used for Packet operation, using the optional CT-44 microphone adapter (available from your Yaesu dealer) for easy interconnection to commonly-available connectors wired to your TNC. You may also build your own cable using a fourconductor miniature phone plug, per the diagram below. The audio level from the receiver to the TNC may be adjusted by using the VOL knob, as with voice operation.
Reset MICROPROCESSOR R ESETTING • Turn the radio off. ‚ Press and hold the [PTT] and [LAMP] key while turning the radio on. ALL.RST ALL.RST”. ƒ Rotate the DIAL to select “ALL.RST [ ] Press the F/W key momentarily to initialize the radio. „ SET M ODE RESETTING • Turn the radio off. ‚ Press and hold the [PTT] and [LAMP] key while turning the radio on. SET.RST SET.RST”. ƒ Rotate the DIAL to select “SET.RST „ Press the [F/W] key momentarily to initialize the Set mode.
Cloning The VX-150 includes a convenient “Clone” feature, which allows the memory and configuration data from one transceiver to be transferred to another VX-150. This can be particularly useful when configuring a number of transceivers for a public service operation. Here is the procedure for Cloning one radio’s data to another: • Turn both radios off. ‚ Connect the optional CT-27 cloning cable between the MIC/EAR jacks of the two radios. Press and hold the [PTT] and [LAMP] key while turning the radio on.
Set Mode The VX-150 Set (Menu) mode is easy to activate and set. Use the following procedure: • Press the [F/W] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to activate the Set mode. ‚ Turn the DIAL to select the Menu item number to be adjusted. ƒ Press the [F/W] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL to adjust or select the parameter to be changed on the Menu item selected in above step.
Set Mode Item # Menu Item Function 35 36 DT DIY ANI Select the DTMF Autodialer delay time Program and activate the ANI Identifier 37 BATT Indication of the Supply Voltage 38 SKIP Enable/Disable skipping of a memory during scanning 39 PAG MOD 40 41 PG CODE Storing Code Memories PG ASBK Enable/disable The Pager Answer Back 42 SCRMBLE Enable/disable The Scrambler Available Values Default 450 ms/750 ms – 450 ms – – – ON/OFF OFF – ON/OFF – OFF ON/OFF OFF •¦Depends on the transceiver
Set Mode Set Item 7 [RESUME] Function: Select the Scan Resume mode. Available Values: 5 SEC/BUSY/HOLD Default: 5 SEC Set Item 8 [SCN LMP] Function: Enable/disable the Scan lamp while paused. Available Values: ON/OFF Default: ON Set Item 9 [RX SAVE] Function: Select the Receive-mode Battery Saver interval (“Sleep” ratio). Available Values: OFF/200ms(1:1)/300ms(1:1.5)/500ms(1:2.5)/1s(1:5)/2s(1:10) Default: 200ms(1:1) Set Item 10 [TX SAVE] Function: Enable/disable The Transmit Battery Saver.
Set Mode Set Item 16 [KEY BP] Function: Enable/disable the Keypad beeper. Available Values: ON/OFF Default: ON Set Item 17 [EDGE BP] Function: Enable/disable the Band-edge beeper while scanning. Available Values: ON/OFF Default: OFF Set Item 18 [BELL] Function: Select the CTCSS Bell ringer repetitions. Available Values: OFF/1/3/5/8/REPEAT Default: OFF Set Item 19 [MON/TCL] Function: Select the MONI key (just below the PTT switch) function.
Set Mode Set Item 23 [BCLO ] Function: Enable/disable the Busy Channel Lock-Out feature. Available Values: ON/OFF Default: OFF Set Item 24 [CLK SFT] Function: Shifting of CPU clock frequency. Available Values: ON/OFF Default: OFF This function is only used to move a spurious response “birdie” should it fall on a desired frequency. Set Item 25 [SQL TYP] Function: Select the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder mode.
Set Mode Set Item 29 [CW ID] Function: Program and activate the CW Identifier (used during ARTS operation). See page ?? for details. Set Item 30 [S SRCH] Function: Activate the Smart Search. See page ?? for details. Set Item 31 [SMT MOD] Function: Select the Smart Search Sweep mode. Available Values: SINGLE/CONT Default: SINGLE SINGLE: The transceiver sweeps the current band once in each direction starting on the current frequency.
Set Mode Set Item 36 [ANI] Function: Program and activate the ANI Identifier See page ?? for details. Set Item 37 [BATT ] Function: Indication of the Supply Voltage. In this mode, press the [F/W] key, then press the [PTT] key, to exit to normal operation. Set Item 38 [SKIP] Function: Enable/disable skipping of a memory during scanning. Available Values: ON/OFF Default: OFF (Scanner stops when the channel is busy) Set Item 39 [PAG MOD] (requires optional FVP-25) Function: See page ?? for details.