VHF FM TRANSCEIVER VX-170 OPERATING MANUAL VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. 4-8-8 Nakameguro, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo 153-8644, Japan VERTEX STANDARD US Headquarters 10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A. YAESU UK LTD. Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Close Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K. VERTEX STANDARD HK LTD. Unit 5, 20/F., Seaview Centre, 139-141 Hoi Bun Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong VERTEX STANDARD (AUSTRALIA) PTY., LTD.
Contents General Description ......................................... 1 Accessories & Options ..................................... 2 Controls & Connections .................................. 3 Top & Front Panel .......................................... 3 LCD ................................................................ 4 Side Panel ....................................................... 5 Keypad Functions .......................................... 6 Installation of Accessories ........................
GENERAL DESCRIPTION The VX-170 is a compact, high-performance FM hand-held providing up to five watts of RF power and wealth of convenient features for the 2-meter amateur band. New and exciting features of the VX-170 are Enhanced Paging and Code Squelch (EPCS), that allows you to page a particular station and only receive calls from that station, if desired; and a security Password feature, that will allow you to turn on and operate your transceiver only after you enter your Password.
ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES FNB-83 7.2 V, 1,400 mAh Rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride Battery Pack NC-88B Overnight Battery Charger (10-Hour) YHA-68 Antenna Quick Draw Belt Clip Operating Manual Warranty Card AVAILABLE OPTIONS FNB-83 NC-88B/C/UÚ VAC-370 CD-26 FBA-25A CN-3 CT-91 E-DC-5B E-DC-6 MH-57A4B CMP460A VC-27 VC-24 FTD-7 7.
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS (TOP & FRONT PANELS) c Antenna Jack Connect the supplied rubber flex antenna (or another antenna presenting a 50-Ohm impedance) here. d MIC/SP Jack This four-conductor miniature jack provides connection points for microphone audio, earphone audio, PTT, and ground. Do not allow the VX-170 to become submerged in water while the plastic cover over the MIC/SP jack is removed. c d e f e VOL/PWR Knob Turn this control clockwise to turn the radio on and to increase the volume.
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS (LCD) Memory Channel Number Skip Memory Channel or Preferential Memory Channel Repeater Shift Direction CTCSS/DSC Operation Internet Connection Feature Active Priority Channel Memory Bank Active Bell Alarm Active Operating Frequency Secondary Keypad Active Battery Indicator Low TX Power Selected S- & PO Meter DTMF Autodial Active Dual Watch Active Key Lock Active Automatic Power-Off Active Battery Saver Active 4 VX-170 OPERATING MANUAL
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS (SIDE PANEL) c PTT (Push To Talk) Switch Press this switch to transmit, and release it (to receive) after your transmission is completed. d MONI Switch Pressing this switch disables the noise squelching action, allowing you to hear very weak signals near the background noise level temporarily. Press the [F] key on the keypad first, then press this switch to enable to adjustment of the squelch threshold level.
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS (KEYPAD FUNCTIONS) Primary Function (PRESS KEY) Frequency entry digit “1.” Frequency entry digit “2.” Secondary Function (PRESS [F] + KEY) Activates the CTCSS or DCS Operation. Selects the CTCSS tone or DCS code number. Third Function (PRESS & HOLD KEY) Toggles the “Weather” broadcast channel memory bank on/off. Activates the ARTS feature. Primary Function (PRESS KEY) Frequency entry digit “4.” Frequency entry digit “5.
CONTROLS & CONNECTORS (KEYPAD FUNCTIONS) Primary Function (PRESS KEY) Frequency entry digit “3.” Increases the VFO frequency by one step or moves the memory channel to the next-highest channel. Secondary Function (PRESS [F] + KEY) Selects the desired transmit power output level. Tunes the VFO frequency upward in 1 MHz steps. Third Function (PRESS & HOLD KEY) Activates the Smart Search feature. Starts the scanner upward (toward a higher frequency or a higher channel number).
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES ANTENNA INSTALLATION The supplied antenna provides good results over the entire frequency range of the transceiver. However, for enhanced reception on certain non-Amateur frequencies, you may wish to connect an antenna designed specifically for that frequency range, as the supplied antenna is necessarily a compromise outside the Amateur band, and cannot be expected to provide high performance at all frequencies.
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES BATTERY CHARGING If the battery has never been used, or its charge is depleted, it may be charged by connecting the NC-88 Overnight 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 DC Cable (with its cigarette lighter plug) or E-DC-6 DC Cable (plug and wire only) may also be used for charging the battery. A fully-discharged pack will be charged completely in 10 hours.
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES BELT CLIP INSTALLATION Connect the hanger to the rear of the VX-170, with the notch pointing directly up, using the supplied screw (Figure 1). Use only the screw included with the clip to mount the clip to the back of the VX-170. Clip the Quick-Draw Belt Clip onto your belt (Figure 2). To install the VX-170 into the Quick-Draw Belt Clip, align the hanger with the QuickDraw Belt Clip, and slide the VX-170 into its slot until a click is heard (Figure 3).
INTERFACE OF PACKET TNCS The VX-170 may be used for Packet operation, using the optional CT-91 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.
OPERATION Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the many features of the VX-170. 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 Be sure the Battery Pack is installed, and that the battery is fully charged. Connect the antenna to the top panel ANTENNA jack.
OPERATION SQUELCH ADJUSTMENT To set the squelch, press the [F] key, followed by the MONI switch just below the PTT switch on the left side of the transceiver. Now rotate the DIAL (outer knob) to find the lowest setting (“LVL 1” through “LVL 15”) that will just silence the background noise. Do not use a higher setting than necessary, or sensitivity to weak incoming signals will be degraded.
OPERATION FREQUENCY NAVIGATION 2) Direct Keypad Frequency Entry The desired operating frequency may be entered directly from the keypad. The first “1” in the frequency does not need to be entered, as it is “assumed” by the microprocessor. To enter a frequency directly, just key in the 10 MHz, 1 MHz, and the kHz digits. Examples: To enter 146.560 MHz, press [4] Æ [6] Æ [5] Æ[6] Æ[0] To enter 146.5625 MHz (12.
OPERATION TRANSMISSION Once you have set up an appropriate frequency inside the 144 MHz Amateur band on which the VX-170 can transmit, you’re ready to go on the air! These are the most basic steps; more advanced aspects of transmitter operation will be discussed later. To transmit, press the PTT switch, and speak into the front panel microphone (located in the lower left-hand corner of the speaker grille) in a normal voice level. The TX/BUSY indicator will glow red during transmission.
ADVANCED OPERATION Now that you’re mastered the basics of VX-170 operation, let’s learn more about some of the really neat features. KEYBOARD LOCKING In order to prevent accidental frequency change or inadvertent transmission, various aspects of the VX-170’s DIAL and keypad may be locked out.
ADVANCED OPERATION KEYPAD/LCD ILLUMINATION Your VX-170 includes a reddish illumination lamp which aids in nighttime operation. The reddish 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: Illuminates the Keypad/LCD lamp for five seconds when you rotate the DIAL knob or press the keypad or any switch (except PTT switch). This is the factory-programmed default setting.
ADVANCED OPERATION RF SQUELCH A special RF Squelch feature is provided on this radio. This feature allows you to set the squelch so that only signals exceeding a certain S-meter level will open the squelch. To set up the RF squelch circuit for operation, use the following procedure: 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 34: RF SQL. 3. Press the [F] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item. 4.
REPEATER OPERATION Repeater stations, usually located on mountaintops or other high locations, provide a dramatic extension of the communication range for low-powered hand-held or mobile transceivers. The VX-170 includes a number of features which make repeater operation simple and enjoyable. REPEATER SHIFTS The VX-170 has been configured, at the factory, with the repeater shift set to 600 kHz.
REPEATER OPERATION MANUAL REPEATER SHIFT ACTIVATION If the ARS feature has been disabled, or if you need to set a repeater shift direction other than that established by the ARS, you may set the direction of the repeater shift manually. To do this: 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [4(RPT)] key to enable selection of the repeater shift direction. 2. This provides a “short-cut” to Set Mode Item 35: RPT.MOD. 3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired shift among “RPT.–,” “RPT.+,” and “RPT.OFF.” 4.
REPEATER OPERATION MANUAL REPEATER SHIFT ACTIVATION Checking the Repeater Uplink (Input) Frequency It often is helpful to be able to check the uplink (input) frequency of a repeater, to see if the calling station is within direct (“Simplex”) range. To do this, just press the [REV(HOME)] key. You’ll notice that the display has shifted to the repeater uplink frequency. Press the [REV(HOME)] key again to cause operation to revert to normal monitoring of the repeater downlink (output) frequency.
REPEATER OPERATION VFO SPLIT MODE 9. If you need to modify the VFO-B (transmit) frequency (for Doppler Shift correction, etc.), just press the [VFO(PRI)] key, then make the necessary change, then press [VFO(PRI)] key once more to restore VFO-A to the “receive VFO” position. 10. When you have finished with Split operation, re-enter the Set mode, and change Set Mode Item 50: VFO.SPL to “VSP.OFF.” A split frequency pair set up via the VFO Split feature cannot be stored directly into memory.
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATION CTCSS OPERATION 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-170, and is very easy to activate. CTCSS setup involves two actions: setting the Tone Mode and then setting of the Tone Frequency.
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATION CTCSS OPERATION be using (ask the repeater owner/operator if you don’t know the tone frequency). 7. When you have made your selection, press the [F] key momentarily to save the new settings and exit to normal operation. This is different than the usual method of restoring normal operation, and it applies only to the configuration of the CTCSS/DCS frequencies.
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATION DCS OPERATION Remember that the DCS is an Encode/Decode system, so your receiver will remain muted until a matching DCS code is received on an incoming transmission. Switch the DCS off when you’re just tuning around the band! TONE SEARCH 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.
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATION EPCS (ENHANCED PAGING & CODE SQUELCH) The VX-170 includes an Enhanced CTCSS tone encoder/decoder and a dedicated microprocessor providing paging and selective calling features. This allows you to place a call to a specific station (Paging), and to receive calls of your choice directed only to you (Code Squelch). The paging and code squelch systems use two pairs of (alternately switched) CTCSS tones which are stored in the pager memories.
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATION EPCS (ENHANCED PAGING & CODE SQUELCH) Activating the Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch System 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [1(SQ TYP)] key to enable selection of the CTCSS/ DCS/ECS mode. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob so that the “ECS” indication appears on the display. 3. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and activate the Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch. 4.
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATION SPLIT TONE OPERATION The VX-170 can be operated in a Split Tone configuration via the Set mode. 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 43: SPLIT. 3. Press the [F] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Set Mode Item. 4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select ON (to enable the Split Tone feature). 5. Press the PTT switch momentarily to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
MEMORY MODE The VX-170 provides a wide variety of memory system resources. These include: 200 “Standard” memory channels, numbered “1” through “200.” A “Home” channel, providing storage and quick recall of one prime frequency. 10 sets of band-edge memories, also known as “Programmable Memory Scan” channels, labeled “L1/U1” through “L10/U10.” 10 Memory Banks, labeled “BANK 1” through “BANK10 .” Each Memory Bank can be assigned up to 200 channels from the “standard” memory channels.
MEMORY MODE MEMORY RECALL 1. While operating in the VFO mode, press the [MR(SKIP)] key to enter the Memory mode. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired channel. 3. To return to the VFO mode, press the [VFO(PRI)] key. When the radio is already set to the Memory mode, an easy way to recall memories is to key in the memory channel number, then press the [F] key. For example, to recall memory channel #14, press [1(SQ TYP)] Æ [4(RPT)] Æ [F].
MEMORY MODE LABELING MEMORIES You may wish to append an alpha-numeric “Tag” (label) to a memory or memories, to aid in recollection of the channel’s use (such as a club name, etc.). This is easily accomplished using the Set Mode. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Recall the memory channel on which you wish to append a label. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 29: NM WRT.
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. 1. With the VX-170 in the “MR” (Memory Recall) mode, select the desired memory channel. 2. Press the [MR(SKIP)] key momentarily to activate the “Memory Tuning” feature. The Memory Channel number will be replaced by “tun.
MEMORY MODE MEMORY BANK OPERATION The large number of memories available in the VX-170 could be difficult to utilize without some means of organizing them. Fortunately, the VX-170 includes provision for dividing the memories into as many as ten Memory Groups, so you can categorize the memories in a manner convenient to you. Assigning Memories to a Memory Bank 1. Recall the memory channel to be assigned to a Memory Bank. 2.
MEMORY MODE MOVING MEMORY DATA TO THE VFO Data stored on memory channels can easily be moved to the last selected VFO, if you like. 1. Select the memory channel containing the frequency data to be moved to the VFO. 2. Press the [MR(SKIP)] key momentarily to activate the “Memory Tune” feature temporarily, then press and hold in the [VFO(PRI)] key for one second.
MEMORY MODE WEATHER BROADCAST CHANNELS The VHF Weather Broadcast Station Memory Channel Bank has been pre-programmed at the factory, for quick selection of NOAA weather information stations. 1. Press and hold in the [1(SQ TYP)] key for one second to recall the Weather Broadcast Memory Bank. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Weather Broadcast channel. 3. If you wish to scan this bank to search for louder CH FREQUENCY CH FREQUENCY 01 162.550 MHz 06 162.500 MHz stations, just press the PTT switch.
SCANNING The VX-170 allows you to scan just the memory channels, the entire 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 The VX-170 provides two VFO scanning functions: “Manual VFO Scanning” and “Programmed VFO Scanning.” Manual VFO Scan 1. Select the VFO mode by pressing the [VFO(PRI)] key, if necessary. 2. Press and hold in either the [S(MHz)] or [T(MHz)] key for one second to initiate upward or downward scanning, respectively. 3.
SCANNING MEMORY SCANNING Memory scanning is similarly easy to initiate: 1. Select the Memory mode by pressing the [MR(SKIP)] key, if necessary. 2. Press and hold in either the [S(MHz)] or [T(MHz)] key for one second to initiate upward or downward scanning, respectively. 3. 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. 4.
SCANNING MEMORY SCANNING Preferential Memory Scan The VX-170 also allows you to set up a “Preferential Scan List” of channels which you can “flag” within the memory system. These channels are designated by a blinking “X” icon when you have selected them, one by one, for the Preferential Scan List. When you initiate memory scanning, beginning on a channel with the blinking “X” icon appended, only those channels bearing the blinking “u” icon will be scanned.
SCANNING MEMORY SCANNING Memory Bank Scan When the Memory Bank feature is engaged, the scanner sweeps only memory channels in the current Memory Bank. However, if the Memory Bank Link Scan feature is enabled, you may sweep the memory channels in several Memory Banks which you have selected. To enable the Memory Bank Link Scan feature: 1. Set the radio to the Memory mode by pressing the [MR(SKIP)] key, if necessary. 2.
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: 1. Set the radio to the VFO mode by pressing the [VFO(PRI)] key, if necessary. 2.
SCANNING “PRIORITY CHANNEL” SCANNING (DUAL WATCH) The VX-170’s scanning features include a two-channel scanning capability which allows you to operate on a VFO or Memory channel, while periodically checking a user-defined Memory Channel for activity. If a station is received on the Memory Channel which is strong enough to open the Squelch, the scanner will pause on that station in accordance with the Scan-Resume mode set via Set Mode Item 32: RESUME. See page 36.
SCANNING “PRIORITY CHANNEL” SCANNING (DUAL WATCH) WX Channel Priority 1. Recall the memory channel you wish to use as the “Priority” frequency. 2. Now, set the radio for operation on a WX channel by pressing and holding in the [1(SQ TYP)] key for one second. 3. Press the [F] key, then press the [VFO(PRI)] key to activate the WX Priority mode. The display will remain on the WX channel frequency, but every five seconds the radio will check the Priority Channel (memory channel) for activity. 4.
SCANNING AUTOMATIC LAMP ILLUMINATION ON SCAN STOP The VX-170 will automatically illuminate the LCD/Keypad 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: 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. 2.
SCANNING WEATHER ALERT SCAN This feature allows you to check the Weather Broadcast Memory Channels for the presence of the NOAA Alert Tone while operating using VFO scan or Memory channel scan. When the Weather Alert Scan feature is engaged, the VX-170 will check the Weather Broadcast Memory Channels for activity every five seconds while scanning.
EMERGENCY CHANNEL OPERATION The VX-170 includes an “Emergency” feature which may be useful if you have someone monitoring on the same frequency as your transceiver’s “Home” channel. See page 30 for details on setting up the Home channel. The “Emergency” feature is activated by pressing and holding in the [4(RPT)] key for one second.
SMART SEARCH OPERATION The Smart Search feature allows you to load frequencies automatically according to where activity is encountered by your radio.
INTERNET CONNECTION FEATURE The VX-170 can be used to access a “node” (repeater or base station) which is tied into the Vertex Standard WIRES™ (Wide-Coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System) network, operating in the “SRG” (Sister Radio Group) mode. Details may be found at the WIRES-II Web site: http://www.vxstd.com/en/wiresinfo-en/. This feature may also be used to access other systems, as described below. 1. Press the [0(SET)] key momentarily to activate the Internet Connection feature.
INTERNET CONNECTION FEATURE 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. cess code (“#123”). I. Press and hold in the [F] key for one second to save the setting. Press the PTT switch to exit to normal operation. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode again. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 22: I NET. Press the [F] key to enable adjustment of this Set Mode Item. Rotate the DIAL knob to set this Set Mode Item to “INT.MEM” (thus activating the “Other Internet Link System” mode).
ARTS™ (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM) The ARTS™ feature uses DCS signaling to inform both parties when you and another ARTS™-equipped 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. Alert ringers may be activated, if desired.
ARTS™ (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM) 4. Press the [F] key momentarily to exit ARTS™ operation and resume normal functioning of the transceiver. ARTS™ constitutes a form of “remote control” operation that may be restricted to certain frequencies. U.S. users should confirm the current status of §97.201(b) of the FCC’s rules governing the 144 MHz band of the Amateur service before utilizing this feature.
ARTS™ (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM) 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 6 characters. Here’s how to program the CW Identifier: 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 11: CW WRT. 3.
DTMF OPERATION The VX-170’s 16-button keypad allows easy DTMF dialing for Autopatch, repeater control, or Internet-link access purposes. Besides numerical digits [0] through [9], the keypad includes the [½] 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. 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [9(DTMF)] key to disable the DTMF Autodialer, if necessary.
DTMF OPERATION 13. When all required DTMF memories are filled to your satisfaction, press the PTT switch to save the settings and exit to normal operation To send the telephone number: 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [9(DTMF)] key to activate the DTMF Autodialer. The “MEM” indication display will appear in the display for a moment. 2.
DTMF PAGER OPERATION (REQUIRES OPTIONAL FTD-7) The VX-170 allows you to utilize a DTMF (Dual-Tone, Multi-Frequency) tone encoder/ decoder, with a dedicated microprocessor providing paging and selective calling features now that you've installed the optional FTD-7 DTMF Paging Unit. This capability allows you to make a call to a specific station (Paging), and to receive calls of your choice directed only to you (Code Squelch).
DTMF PAGER OPERATION (REQUIRES OPTIONAL FTD-7) Activating the DTMF Pager 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to enter the Set mode. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 55: PAGER. 3. Press the [F] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Set Mode Item. 4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ON.” 5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and activate the DTMF Pager. When the DTMF Pager is activated, the “P ” notation will replace the “100 MHz” digit of the frequency display.
DTMF PAGER OPERATION (REQUIRES OPTIONAL FTD-7) When you activate the ANI (Automatic Number Identification) feature during DTMF Pager operation, the DTMF tones stored in ANI memory will automatically be sent whenever you press the PTT switch. When the ANI is received, the LCD will displays the received ANI code after the 3-digit DTMF pager code. Storing the ANI code Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to enter the Set mode. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 54: ANI.WRT.
MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGS PASSWORD The VX-170 provides a security password feature which can minimize the chance that your transceiver could be used by an unauthorized party. When the password feature is activated, the radio will ask for the four digit password to be entered when the radio is first turned on. You must enter the four digit password from the keypad. If the wrong password is entered, the microprocessor will shut down the radio automatically. To enter the password , use the following procedure: 1.
MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGS PASSWORD If you forget the password number, you may turn on the transceiver by performing the “All Reset” procedure (see page 65). However, the VX-170 will clear the password, as well as all memories, and will restore all other settings to factory defaults. PROGRAMMING THE KEY ASSIGNMENTS Default VX-170 Set Mode Items have been assigned (at the factory) to the [7(P1)] and [8(P2)] keys.
MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGS RECEIVE BATTERY SAVER SETUP An important feature of the VX-170 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-170 will remain in the “active” mode, then resume its “sleep” cycles. This feature significantly reduces quiescent battery drain, and you may change the amount of “sleep” time between activity checks using the Set Mode: 1.
MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGS DISABLING THE TX/BUSY INDICATOR Further battery conservation may be accomplished by disabling the TX indicator while transmitting and disabling the BUSY indicator while receiving a signal. Use the following procedure: 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 8: BSY.LED if you wish to disable the BUSY indicator or Set Mode Item 48: TX.LED if you wish to disable the TX indicator. 3.
MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGS TRANSMITTER TIME-OUT TIMER (TOT) The TOT feature provides a safety switch which limits transmission time to a pre-programmed value. This will promote battery conservation by not allowing you to make excessively-long transmissions, and in the event of a stuck PTT switch (perhaps if the radio or a Speaker/Mic is wedged between car seats) it can prevent interference to other users as well as battery depletion.
MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGS DCS CODE INVERSION The DCS system was first introduced in the commercial LMR (Land Mobile Radio) service, where it is now in widespread use. DCS is sometime referred to by its different proprietary names, such as DPL® (Digital Private Line®, a registered trademark of Motorola, Inc.). DCS uses a codeword consisting of a 23-bit frame, transmitted (subaudible) at a data rate of 134.4 bps (bit/sec).
MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGS In many areas of the world, channel congestion has required that operating channels be closely spaced. In such operating environments, it often is required that operators use reduced deviation levels, so as to reduce the potential for interference to users on adjacent channels. The VX-170 includes a simple method of accomplishing this: 1. Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. 2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 51: WID.NAR. 3.
RESET PROCEDURES to recovery may involve resetting of the microprocessor. Here’s how to do this: 1. Turn the radio off. 2. Press and hold in the MONI switch (just below the PTT switch) while turning the radio on. 3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select one of the choices from the reset menu: F1 SETRST: Resets the Set (Menu) mode settings to their factory defaults. F2 MEMRST:Clears the Memory settings to factory defaults. F3 MB RST: Clears the Memory Bank Assignments.
CLONING 170. 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: 1. Turn both radios off. 2. Connect the user-constructed cloning cable and two optional CT-91 Microphone Adapters (one on each end) between the MIC/SP jacks of the two radios. 3. Press and hold in the MONI switch (just below the PTT switch) while turning the radios on.
NOTE VX-170 OPERATING MANUAL 67
SET (MENU) MODE of a wide variety of transceiver parameters, some of which have not been detailed previously. Use the following procedure to activate the Set Mode: Press the [F] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Set Mode Item to be adjusted. Press the [F] key momentarily to enable adjustment of the Set Mode Item. 4. Rotate the DIAL knob to adjust or select the parameter to be changed on the Set Mode Item selected in above step. 5.
SET (MENU) MODE SET MODE ITEM FUNCTION 21 [EMG S] Selects the alarm(s) utilized when the Emergency function is engaged. 22 [I NET] 23 [INT CD] Selects the Internet Link Connection mode. Selects the Access Number (DTMF digit) for WIRES™ operation. Selects the memory register for an Access Number (DTMF code) for non-WIRES™ Selects the LCD/Keypad Lamp mode. Selects the Control Locking lockout combination.
SET (MENU) MODE REPEATER SETTING SET MODE ITEM AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT) Enables/Disables the Automatic Repeater Shift function. Sets the Repeater Shift Direction. Sets the magnitude of the repeater Shift. 4 [ARS] 35 [RPT.MOD] 41 [SHIFT] CTCSS/DSC/DTMF/EPCS SETTING SET MODE ITEM AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT) ARS. ON / ARS.OFF RPT.OFF / RPT. – / RPT. + (Ú) 0.00 - 99.95 MHz (Ú) Selects the number of CTCSS/DCS Bell ringer repetitions. Setting of the DCS code. Enables/Disables “Inverted” DCS code decoding.
SET (MENU) MODE SWITCH/KNOB SETTING SET MODE ITEM AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT) Enables/Disables the beeper. Selects the LCD/Keypad Lamp mode. Selects the Control Locking lockout combination. 6 [BEEP] 25 [LAMP] 26 [LOCK] Selects the MONI switch function. Selects the function of the [HM/RV] key.
SET (MENU) MODE Default: OFF Set Mode Item 2 [AR BEP] Function: Selects the Beep option during ARTS operation. Available Values: INRANG/ALWAYS/OFF Default: INRANG INRANG: Beeps sound only when the radio first detects that you are within range. ALWAYS: Beeps sound every time a polling transmission is received from the other station (every 15 or 25 seconds when in range). OFF: No alert beeps sound. Set Mode Item 3 [AR INT] Function: Selects the Polling Interval during ARTS operation.
SET (MENU) MODE Default: LED. ON Set Mode Item 9 [CLK.SFT] Function: Shifting of the CPU clock frequency. Available Values: SFT.OFF/SFT. ON Default: SFT.OFF This function is only used to move a spurious response “birdie,” should it fall on a desired frequency. Set Mode Item 10 [CWID] Function: Enables/disables the CW identifier during ARTS operation. Available Values: TX OFF/TX ON Default: TX OFF Set Mode Item 11 [CW WRT] Function: Programs and activates the CW Identifier (used during ARTS operation).
SET (MENU) MODE Function: Programming of the DTMF Autodialer. See page 53 for details. Set Mode Item 18 [ECS.CDR] Function: Setting the Receiver Pager Code for the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch. See page 26 for details. Set Mode Item 19 [ECS.CDT] Function: Setting the Transmitting Pager Code for the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch. See page 26 for details. Set Mode Item 20 [EDG.BEP] Function: Enables/Disables the Band-edge beeper while selecting the frequency via the DIAL knob.
SET (MENU) MODE Function: Selects the Internet Link Connection mode. Available Values: INT.OFF/INT.COD/INT.MEM Default: INT.OFF INT.OFF: Disables the Internet Link Connection mode. INT.COD: Sets up the Internet Link Connection mode for WIRES™ access. INT.MEM: Sets up the Internet Link Connection mode for other (DTMF string) Internet Link System access. Set Mode Item 23 [INT CD] Function: Selects the Access Number (DTMF digit) for WIRES™ operation.
SET (MENU) MODE Function: Selects the MONI key (just below the PTT switch) function. Available Values: MONI/T-CALL Default: Depends on the transceiver version. MONI: Pressing the MONI key causes the Noise/Tone Squelch to be over-ridden, allowing you to listen for weak (or non-encoded) signals. T-CALL: Pressing the MONI key activates a 1750-Hz burst tone, used for repeater access in many countries (especially in Europe).
SET (MENU) MODE Function: Selects the function of the [REV(HOME)] key. Available Values: / Default: : Pressing the [REV(HOME)] key reverses the transmit and receive frequencies during repeater operation. : Pressing the [REV(HOME)] key instantly recalls a favorite “Home” channel. Set Mode Item 34 [RF SQL] Function: Adjusts the RF Squelch threshold level. Available Values: S-1/S-2/S-3/S-4/S-5/S-6/S-8/S-FULL/OFF Default: OFF Set Mode Item 35 [RPT.
SET (MENU) MODE Function: Selects the Memory Scan channel-selection mode. Available Values: ONLY/MEM Default: MEM ONLY: The scanner will only scan channels that are flagged (Preferential Scan List). MEM: The scanner will “skip” the flagged channels during scanning. Set Mode Item 40 [SCN.LMP] Function: Enables/Disables the Scan lamp while paused. Available Values: ON/OFF Default: ON Set Mode Item 41 [SHIFT] Function: Sets the magnitude of the repeater Shift. Available Values: 0.00 - 99.
SET (MENU) MODE Function: Selects the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder mode. Available Values: OFF/TONE/TSQL/REV TN/DCS/ECS Default: OFF TONE: CTCSS Encoder TSQL: CTCSS Encoder/Decoder REV TN: Reverse CTCSS Decoder (Mutes receiver when matching tone is received) DCS: Digital Coded Encoder/Decoder ECS: Enhanced Paging & & Code Squelch Note: See also Set Mode Item 43: SPLIT regarding additional selections available during “Split Tone” operation. Set Mode Item 45 [STEP] Function: Setting of the synthesizer steps.
SET (MENU) MODE Function: Enables or disables “VFO Split” operation. Available Values: VSP.OFF/VSP. ON Default: VSP.OFF Set Mode Item 51 [WID.NAR] Function: Select Wide (±5 kHz) or Narrow (±2.5 kHz) TX Deviation. Available Values: WIDE/NARROW Default: WIDE Note: If “Narrow” is selected, the receiver audio level is increased slightly to compensate for the reduced deviation. The receiver IF filter bandwidth is not changed via this setting.
SPECIFICATIONS Frequency Ranges: RX 137 - 174 MHz TX 144 - 146 (148) MHz Channel Steps: 5/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100 kHz Frequency Stability: ±5 ppm @ 14º to 140º F (–10° to +60° C) Repeater Shift: ±600 kHz Emission Type: F2 , F3 Antenna Impedance: 50 Ω Supply Voltage: Nominal: 7.2 V DC (Negative Ground) Operating: 6.0 ~ 16.0 V DC (EXT DC Jack) 11.0 ~ 16.0 V DC (EXT DC Jack with Charging) Current Consumption: 125 mA (Receive, 200 mW output) (Approx. @7.2 V) 45 mA (Standby, Saver Off) 20.
INSTALLATION OF THE FTD-7 DTMF PAGING UNIT (OPTION) 2. Remove the battery pack. 3. Locate the connector for the FTD-7 under the caution seal in the battery compartment on the back of the radio; just peel off the caution seal. 4. Align the connector on the FTD-7 with the transceiver's connector, and gently press the unit into place. 5. Affix the new (supplied) caution seal, and replace the battery. 6. Installation is now complete.
NOTE VX-170 OPERATING MANUAL 83
NOTE 84 VX-170 OPERATING MANUAL
1. Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by VERTEX STANDARD could void the user’s authorization to operate this device. 2. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference including received, interference that may cause undesired operation. 3.
Copyright 2010 VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. All rights reserved. No portion of this manual may be reproduced without the permission of VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.