Specifications

switched bandpass filters (BPF)—DuneStar 600 or ICE 419, for example—remote coax
switches, etc., and does not require a computer. The serial interface allows rig control via
computer, and makes logging programs like TR-Log and CT really shine (if the program
supports the FT-817 protocol). The amplifier remote interface provides complete band
switching and transmit/receive sequencing control for Yaesu solid state power amplifiers—
change the band on the FT-817, and the amplifier follows automatically. See
http://www.k6xx.com/ft817/ft817.html.
04/09/01-R
BATTERIES
Do I really have to cut the "green" wire?
W2PW observes that anyone concerned about restoring the unit for alkalines should not
perhaps CUT the green wire, but rather take a safety pin (or the like), and poke into the
connector to release the clip that holds the pin or socket connection in the white plug or
socket body. Slide out the wire with the tiny connection intact, tape it out of the way and
you can reseat it when desired.
BATTERIES
Is there a NiMH batery pack that fits into the FT-817?
YES. (1) Radio Shack has a 9.6 volt / 1600 mAh battery pack (NiMH) designed for radio
controlled vehicles. The number is 23-331 and it fits perfectly into the battery compartment
of the FT-817. Price is $25. (2) Maha Energy (www.mahaenergy.com) will offer in April the
new MH-FNB-72 NiMH battery pack specifically for the FT-817. The MH-FNB-72 is
reported to offer 1800 mAh at 9.6 V. It will also include a special charging cable that will
allow the pack to be directly pluged into the Molex connector on the MH-C888 charger (the
MH-C777 should work also). Price is $60. Also, see TOPIC - CONNECTORS to find
source for connector to the FT-817. (Ed.: A transition cable can be made to minimize the
amount of wear and tear on the FT-817 internal power connector. One approach is to
replace the rather large connector on the RS battery pack with a Molex plug 03-06-2024
with 3 A pico fuses in each leg (see TOPIC - FUSE). Next make the transition cable using
a Molex receptacle 03-06-1022 and the little female Molex connector that mates with the
FT-817. This can be taken from the Yaesu supplied battery holder or a new Molex
connector. The ears on the larger Molex connector need to be cut off. The wires dress
nicely and the fit is fine. The terminals are 02-06-1103 for the female and 02-06-2103 for
the male.)
01/04/01-R
BATTERIES
Can NiMH batteries be used?
YES. Despite Yaesu's statement to the contrary, you CAN fill the AA holder with NiCd or
NiMh AA cells. They can be charged at about 18mA trickle and 180mA which is about right
for 10 or more hours. However you are cautioned to install a fuse at the battery pack. Try a
2.5 or 3 A "picofuse" which has leads and is tiny. Also make sure the cut green wire is
insulated from ground. Beware your warranty.
01/04/01-R
BATTERIES
How much current is drawn by the FT-817?