FT-250R 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 1306-1308, 13F., Millennium City 2, 378 Kwun Tong Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong VERTEX STANDARD (AUSTRALIA) PTY., LTD.
Contents Introduction .......................................... 1 Controls & Connectors ........................ 2 Accessories & Options .......................... 3 Basic Operation .................................... 4 Battery Pack Installation and Removal ...... 4 Battery Charging ......................................... 4 Antenna Installation .................................... 5 Switching Power ON and OFF ................... 6 Adjusting the Volume Level ....................... 6 Squelch Setup ......
TRANSMISSION SWITCH POWER SWITCH AND VOL KNOB Speak into the microphone in a normal voice level while pressing the PTT switch. Rotate the VOL/PWR knob to turn the radio on and adjust the Audio Volume Level. FREQUENCY DIAL KNOB Rotate the DIAL Knob to select the operating frequency. SQL KNOB Adjusts to the point where the background noise is muted. MICROPHONE LAMP SWITCH MONITOR SWITCH (USA) T.
KEY OVERVIEW Press Key Frequency entry digit “1.” Press [F/L] + Key Activates the CTCSS or DCS Operation. Frequency entry digit “2.” Frequency entry digit “7.” Selects the CTCSS tone or DCS code number. Selects the desired transmit power output level. Selects the direction of the uplink frequency shift during repeater operation. Selects the CTCSS/DCS Bell ringer repetitions. Toggles the display indication between “frequency” and the channel’s “Alpha/ Numeric Tag”. Activates the ARTS feature.
Introduction The FT-250R is an ultra compact FM hand-held providing up to five watts of RF power and a wealth of convenient features for the 2m amateur band. The FT-250R has rubber gasket seals around all external controls and connectors to help 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, with 199 freely tunable memories and two VFOs.
Controls & Connectors VOL/PWR Knob ANTENNA Jack BUSY/TX Indicator Lamp DIAL Rotary Selector SQL Control LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) PTT Button MIC/SP Jack Monitor (T.
Accessories & Options ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED WITH THE FT-250R FNB-83 Ni-MH Battery Pack (7.2 V, 1400 mAh) PA-38 AC Adapter CD-30 Desktop Charger Belt Clip Antenna Operating Manual Warranty Card AVAILABLE OPTIONS FOR YOUR FT-250R FNB-83 FBA-25A PA-38 CD-30 MH-34B4B MH-37A4B VC-25 CT-27 E-DC-5B E-DC-6 CN-3 CT-44 CSC-77 7.
Basic Operation BATTERY PACK INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL To install the battery, hold the transceiver with your left hand, so your palm is over the speaker and your thumb is on the top of the belt clip. Insert the battery pack into the battery compartment on the back of the radio while tilting the Belt Clip outward, then close the Battery Pack Latch until it locks in place with a “Click.” To remove the battery, turn the radio off and remove any protective cases.
Basic Operation Important Notes! Do not connect an improper AC Adapter. Use only the supplied PA-38 AC Adapter. Do not charge an improper battery (one not specifically designed for use in the PA-38/CD-30). Disconnect the pack from the CD-30 Desktop Charger, and unplug the PA-38 AC Adapter from the AC line outlet, when charging is completed. The PA-38 AC Adapter and/or CD-30 Desktop Charger will generate a moderate amount of heat during the charging process. This is a normal condition.
Basic Operation SWITCHING POWER ON AND OFF c Be sure the battery pack is installed. d Connect the antenna to the top panel ANTENNA jack. e Switch on the transceiver by rotating the VOL control clockwise out of the click-stop (a momentary beep will sound). ADJUSTING THE VOLUME LEVEL Rotate the VOL control (immediately to the right of the Antenna) to set the desired audio level. Clockwise rotation increases the volume level.
Basic Operation FREQUENCY NAVIGATION Press the [VFO(PRI)] button, if necessary, to select the VFO mode. The FT-250R has two VFOs, labeled “A” and “B,” either of which can be used for all of the procedures described in this manual. You can change VFOs with the [VFO(PRI)] button at any time. There are several ways to tune the FT-250R: in selectable channel steps or 1 MHz steps with the [ (MHz)] / [ (MHz)] keys or DIAL knob, and direct keypad frequency entry.
Basic Operation REPEATER OPERATION The ARS (Automatic Repeater Shift) feature in the FT-250R provides repeater shift of the transmit frequency whenever you are tuned to a standard repeater subband (see diagram below). When enabled, a small “–” or “+” will be displayed in the upper left-hand corner of the display, signifying that repeater shift is active, and closing the push-to-talk switch changes the display to the (shifted) transmit frequency.
Basic Operation Setting repeater Tx Offset Although you should keep the repeater offset programmed to that used in your area, you can change the default repeater offset for special applications: c Press the [F/L] key, then immediately press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. SHIFT SHIFT”). d Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #4 (“SHIFT [ ] Press the F/L key to enable modification of the current setting.
Advanced Operation VFO SPLIT MODE For working on repeaters with odd splits, or communicating with astronauts on orbiting space vehicles, it may be necessary to use non-standard splits between the receive and transmit frequency. If the application is infrequent enough not to warrant the dedication of a memory channel for this purpose, the “VFO Split” mode may be used. Here is the procedure: c Press the [VFO(PRI)] key, as needed, to select VFO-A. Set VFO-A for the receiving frequency (for example, 144.
Advanced Operation f Rotate the DIAL to select the desired “Sleep” duration. The selections available are 200 ms, 300 ms, 500 ms, 1 second, and 2 seconds, or OFF. The default value is 200 ms. g When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
Advanced Operation AUTOMATIC POWER-OFF (APO) FEATURE The APO feature helps conserve battery life by automatically turning the radio off after a user-defined period of time within which there has been no dial or key activity. The available selections for the time before power-off are 0.5/1/3/5/8 hours, as well as APO Off. The default condition for the APO is OFF, and here is the procedure for activating it: c Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. APO APO”).
Advanced Operation DISABLING THE KEYPAD BEEPER If the keypad’s Beeper creates an inconvenience, it may easily be disabled. c Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. KEY BP BP”). d Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #16 (“KEY [ ] e Press the F/L key to enable adjustment of this Menu item. f Rotate the DIAL to change the setting from ON to OFF. g When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
Advanced Operation TONE CALLING (1750 Hz) If the repeaters in your country require a 1750-Hz burst tone for access (typically in Europe), you can set the MONI key to serve as a “TONE CALL” switch instead. To change the configuration of this switch, we again use the Menu to help us. c Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode. MON TCL MON/TCL TCL”). d Rotate the DIAL to select Menu Item #19 (“MON e Press the [F/L] key to enable adjustment of this Menu item. T.CALL T.
Advanced 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 FT-250R, 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 FT-250R, 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 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. Two things must be remembered in this regard: You must be sure that your repeater uses the same tone type (CTCSS vs. DCS).
Memory Operation The FT-250R provides a wide variety of memory system resources. These include: 1” through “199 199 199 “Standard” memory channels, numbered “1 199.” A Home channel, allowing storage and quick recall of one prime frequency. Five sets of band-edge memories also known as “Programming Memory Scan” chanU5 L1 U1 L5 nels, labeled “L1 L1/U1 U1” through “L5 L5/U5 U5” MEMORY STORAGE c Select the desired frequency, while operating in the VFO mode.
Memory Operation 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 c With the FT-250R in the “MR channel. MR MR” indicator will be blinking. d Now press the [MR/MW(SKIP)] key momentarily. The “MR Rotate the DIAL, as desired, to tune to a new frequency.
Memory Operation desired label. A total of seven characters may be used in the creation of a label. j When you have programmed a label which is under 7 characters, press and hold in the [F/L] key for one second to confirm the label (if the label is exactly 7 characters in length, you do not need to press and hold in [F/L] key). k When you have completed the creation of the label, press the PTT to save the label and exit to normal operation.
Scanning The FT-250R 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 MEMORY SCANNING Memory scanning is similarly easy to initiate: c Set the radio to the Memory mode by pressing the [MR/MW(SKIP)] key, if necessary. d Press and hold in the [ (MHz)] / [ (MHz)] key for 1/2 second to initiate scanning. e As with VFO scanning, the scanner will halt on any signal encountered that is strong enough to open the squelch; it will then resume scanning according to the Scan-Resume mode set previously. f To cancel scanning, press the PTT key.
Scanning AUTOMATIC LAMP ILLUMINATION ON SCAN STOP The FT-250R will automatically illuminate the LCD Lamp whenever the scanner stops on a signal (the default condition for this feature is “ON”). The procedure for disabling the Scan Lamp is: c Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to enter the Set mode. SCN LMP LMP”). d Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #8 (“SCN [ ] Press the F/L key to enable changing of this Menu item. e f Rotate the DIAL to set this Menu item to OFF.
Scanning Setting the Smart Search Mode c Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to enter the Set mode. SMT MOD MOD”). d Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #31 (“SMT e Press the [F/L] key to enable changing of this Menu item. f Rotate the DIAL to select the desired Smart Search mode (see above). g When you have made your selection, press the PTT key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation. Storing Smart Search Memories c Set the radio to the VFO mode.
Scanning Memory-Memory mode c Store a frequency that you want to use as the Dual Watch “Priority” channel into memory “1 1.” d Set the radio to the Memory mode by pressing the [MR/MW(SKIP)] key. e Rotate the DIAL to select the channel on which you wish to operate while periodically checking for activity on channel “1” during Dual Watch operation. f Press the [F/L] key momentarily (not for 1/2 second), then press the [VFO(PRI)] key (momentarily). A small “PRI” notation will appear on the LCD.
DTMF Operation 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. When you have sent all the digits desired, release the PTT key. DTMF AUTODIALER Nine DTMF Autodial memories are provided, allowing you to store telephone numbers for autopatch use. You can also store short autopatch access code streams so as to avoid having to send them manually.
ARTS (Automatic Range Transponder System) Operation 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.
ARTS (Automatic Range Transponder System) 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: c Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to enter the Set mode. AR ITVL ITVL”). d Rotate the DIAL to select Menu #15 (“AR e Press the [F/L] key to enable changing of this Menu item.
ARTS (Automatic Range Transponder System) Operation f Press the [F/L] key, then press the [F/L] key again, to begin entry of the letters and numbers in your callsign. g Rotate the DIAL to select the first letter or number in your callsign. When the correct character has been selected, press the [ (MHz)] key to move on to the next character. h Repeat step g as many times as necessary to complete your callsign.
Interface of Packet TNCs & Reset The FT-250R 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.
Cloning The FT-250R includes a convenient “Clone” feature, which allows the memory and configuration data from one transceiver to be transferred to another FT-250R. 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: c Turn both radios off. d Connect the optional CT-27 cloning cable between the MIC/SP jacks of the two ra- dios.
Set Mode The FT-250R Set (Menu) mode is easy to activate and set. Use the following procedure: c Press the [F/L] key, then press the [0(SET)] key, to activate the Set mode. d Turn the DIAL to select the Menu item number to be adjusted. e Press the [F/L] 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 Available Values Default 35 DT DLY Select the DTMF Autodialer delay time 450 ms/750 ms 450 ms 36 ANI Program and activate the ANI Identifier – – 37 BATT Indication of the Supply Voltage – – SKIP Enable/Disable skipping of a memory during scanning ON/OFF OFF 38 Function Depends on the transceiver version Set Mode Details Set Item 1 [ALPHA] Function: Store Alpha-Numeric “Tags” for the Memory channels. See page 20 for details.
Set Mode 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. Available Values: ON/OFF Default: OFF Set Item 11 [APO] Function: Set the Automatic Power-Off time.
Set Mode Set Item 18 [BELL] Function: Select the number of 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. Available Values: MONI/T.CALL Default: Depends on the transceiver version. Pressing the MONI key causes the noise/tone Squelch to be over-ridden, allowing you to listen for weak (or non-encoded) signals. T.
Set Mode Set Item 25 [SQL TYP] Function: Select the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder mode. Available Values: OFF/T/TSQ/DCS Default: OFF T: CTCSS Encoder TSQ: CTCSS Encoder/Decoder DCS: Digital Coded Squelch Encoder/Decoder Set Item 26 [TN SET] Function: Setting of the CTCSS Tone Frequency Available Values: 39 standard CTCSS tones Default: 100 Hz In this mode, press the [F/L] key, then press the PTT key, to save the new setting and exit to normal operation. Set Item 27 [DCS SET] Function: Setting of the DCS code.
Set Mode 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. All channels where activity is present (up to 15 in each direction) are loaded into the Smart Search memories. Whether or not all 31 memories are filled, the search stops after one sweep in each direction.
Set Mode 38 FT-250R OPERATING MANUAL
Specifications GENERAL Frequency coverage: Channel steps: Standard repeater shift: Emission type: Supply voltage: Current consumption: Case size (WHD): Weight (approx.): RX: 140 to 174 MHz TX: 144 to 146 (148) MHz 5, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25 & 50 kHz 600 kHz F2D, F3E Nominal: 7.2 V DC, Negative Ground Operating: 6.0 to 16.0 VDC, Negative Ground (EXT DC Jack) Receive: 130 mA; Standby, Saver off : 37 mA Standby, Saver on : 23 mA Auto Power Off : 8 mA Transmit (HIGH) : 1.
Copyright 2011 VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. All rights reserved No portion of this manual may be reproduced without the permission of VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.
