The Yaesu VX series is a line of two sequences of compact amateur radio handheld transceivers produced by Yaesu. There is a line of ultra-compact lower-power dual-band (2 m and 70 cm) transceivers that started with the VX-1R and was later updated with the VX-2R and VX-3R. There is also a line of 5W tri-band transceivers that started with the VX-5R and was later updated with the VX-6R, VX-7R and VX-8R.
Video Yaesu VX series
Common features
The VX line of radios all have features common to most modern hand held amateur radios:
- CTCSS and DCS decode/encode and European Tone Burst
- RF Squelch capability
- Selectable deviation (wide/narrow)
- DTMF transmission and memories.
In addition, the VX line has features available on only some other brands:
- Receive coverage in AM, NFM, and WFM
- Wide-band receive coverage, from 500 kHz up to 999 MHz
- User-selectable 10 dB attenuator
- Ultra-compact size
- Channel memories (including frequency, CTCSS/DCS squelch tone and mode, repeater offset, alphanumeric labels)
- frequency and memory scanning
- display with automatic backlight
- memory cloning interface, radio to radio or radio to pc and back
- SMA antenna jack
These features are specific to Yaesu radios:
- ARTS range transponder for watching communications between two ARTS-equipped radios
- WIRES -- Internet repeater linking (added for VX-2 and after)
Maps Yaesu VX series
Yaesu VX-1R
The Yaesu VX-1R is a micro-miniature multiband FM transceiver with extensive receiver frequency coverage intended for use in licensed "Ham" or amateur radio operations. It is purportedly the smallest UHF/VHF hand-held transceiver available, with dimensions of 47x81x25 mm. It will receive and transmit in both the 2 meter band (144-148 MHz) and the 70 cm band (430-450 MHz). The VX-1R provides receive coverage of the AM and FM broadcast bands, VHF and UHF TV bands, the VHF AM aircraft band, and a wide range of commercial and public safety frequencies.
Feature overview
- FM transmit on the 2-meter band and 70-centimeter band (1 watt @ 6 V EXT DC in and 500 milliwatts @ 3.6 V DC)
Yaesu VX-2R
The VX-2R was an ultra-compact amateur radio transceiver produced by Yaesu between 2003 and 2007.
The VX-2R is known as the VX-2E in European markets.
The Yaesu VX-1R was superseded by the VX-2R and is the model that preceded the Yaesu VX-3R.
Feature overview
- FM transmit on 2 Meters (1.5 watts) and 70 centimeters (1 watt) on battery power
- FM transmit on 2 Meters (3 watts) and 70 centimeters (2 watt) using external DC power
- Wide-band receive coverage, from 500 kHz through 999 MHz in AM, NFM and WFM modes
- Approximately 900 memory channels, with up to 20 banks
Battery
The standard battery will last about two days (single frequency receive) if not scanning. If scanning, the receive time falls to a few hours. At 1.5 Watts out, talk time is only about 20 minutes with a fully charged battery.
Replacement batteries are inexpensive, especially as they are based on the Fuji NP60 camera battery. The lower (100 mW) power setting is adequate for repeaters out to 20 miles or so, and allows longer talk time. This is a highly regarded HT based on its performance-to-size ratio.
Modification
The VX-2 is not difficult to modify. Because the radio uses software-based jumpers, it is not necessary to open the radio up to perform most modification. A MARS/CAP modification can be performed, expanding transmit coverage outside of ham bands slightly; it is also possible to perform a "freeband" modification to the radio, enabling transmission outside the authorized amateur radio bands, without any hardware modifications. Although in most cases illegal based on Federal Communications Commission rules, the "freeband" modification opens transmit coverage significantly, allowing use on business band and FRS bands, along with several lesser-used frequency bands.
VX-3R
The VX-3R is an ultra-compact dual band FM transceiver with extensive receive frequency coverage. Besides 144 and 430 MHz transceive operation, the VX-3R provides receive coverage of the AM(MF) and FM broadcast bands, HF Shortwave Bands, VHF and UHF TV bands, the VHF AM aircraft band, and a wide range of commercial and public safety frequencies. The transmitter section provides 1.5 watts of power output on the 144 MHz bands with the supplied FNB-82LI battery pack and 1 watt output on 430 MHz.
The VX-3R is the successor to Yaesu's previous models in the ultra-compact dualband handheld FM transceiver segment, the VX-1R and the VX-2R.
Feature overview
- FM transmit on 2 Meters and 70 centimeters at up to 3 watts on 2 m and 2 watts on 70 cm with a 6VDC external source (1.5 watts on 2 m and 1 watt on 70 cm when using the internal battery)
- 1000mAh Lithium-Ion battery
- Internal Ferrite Bar Antenna for AM Broadcast Reception
- Stereo decoding for FM Broadcast reception
- Stereo Headphone connector
- Ability to use headphones as antenna for FM Broadcast reception
Modifications
The VX-3R can be modified to transmit on MARS and CAP frequencies through hardware techniques, however this radio does not meet NTIA standards for either MARS or CAP. The hardware modification requires the removal of an SMD located under the battery pack. This radio is also a preferred radio of Hacktivists and as such is the subject of some unusual and exciting mods. It is capable of being programmed by the open source Chirp software.
VX-5R
The VX-5R is an ultra-compact amateur radio transceiver produced by Yaesu.
Feature overview
- FM transmit on 6 Meters, 2 Meters and 70 centimeters (5 watt @ 13.8V EXT DC IN), (5 watt @ 7.2V 50 MHz/144 MHz), (4.5 watt @ 7.2V 430 MHz)
Specifications
(Source: Yaesu)
- Receiver Frequency Range:
- 0.5 - 16 MHz
- 48 - 729 MHz
- 800 - 999 MHz (Cellular blocked)
- 6M TX: 5 Watts
- 2M TX: 5 Watts
- 440 MHz TX: 4.5 Watts
- Number of Simultaneous bands: 1
- Priority Channel: 1 - Any of 220
- Backlight: Red
- Memory Channels: 220
- Alpha Tags in display: 8 Characters
- Battery: 1100 ma Li-Ion (superseded by current 1500 ma Li-ion)
- Battery Life (avg): 6 to 12 Hours
- Alkaline Pack: 2 AA Cells (optional)
- Computer Programmable with ADMS/EVE/VX5 Commander or the open-source Chirp software
- Weight: 9.0 oz
- Charge time: 6 Hrs
- Color: Black, Silver
- Audio Output: 400 mW @ 8 O
VX-6R
The Yaesu VX-6R is a triple band handheld amateur radio transceiver with extensive receive coverage, and leading-edge features. The radio is designed to operate in extreme conditions, and is sealed at all openings to permit underwater submersion up to 1 meter (3 feet) for 30 minutes. A demo model at Dayton Hamvention was held underwater for 8 hours at 1 meter depth, under power, without adverse effects. Available accessories include remote microphones, earphones.
Features
- 900 Memories
- Adjustable Backlit Keypad & LCD
- Channel counter function for locating frequency of nearby transmitter
Accessories
With the shipped box, Yaesu VX-6R should come with the following accessories,
- VX-6R, Transceiver
- FNB-80LI, 7.4V, 1400 mAh Lithium ion battery pack
- NC-72B/C, 5-Hour Battery Charger
- YHA-67, Antenna
- Belt Clip & Hand Strap
- Operating Manual
- Warranty Card
There is an optional barometric module, SU-1, that provides both barometric pressure and altitude measuring capability, and the VX-6R may be programmed to monitor temperature and pressure (or altitude) while it is turned off. This user-installed accessory mounts under the battery compartment.
Specifications
Frequency Range of Transmission (USA Version):
- 222 - 225 MHz - 1.5W Max
- 144 - 148 MHz - 5.0W Max
- 420 - 450 MHz - 5.0W Max
Each band (except 222 MHz and 50 MHz in Asia exported version) can be switched between 5W, 2.5W, 1.0W, and 300 mW.
The Asian version of the VX-6R can transmit a 1.5W FM carrier on the six meter band. It is necessary to use an external antenna tuned to the lower part of the six meter band for this feature. (A 2-sectional antenna is provided with the Asian export version.)
Technical description
Faults and Problems
A bug has been found, as the CTCSS decode may not work properly when the VX-6R is operating with external power.
The VX-6R may become insensitive to narrow-band FM signals - see the VX-7R sensitivity issue below.
Programming
The VX-6R is capable of being programmed with the open source Chirp software.
VX-7R
The Yaesu VX-7R is a handheld transceiver for use on the amateur radio bands. It is a "quad band" transceiver, capable of transmitting and receiving on the 50 MHz (6 meters), 220 MHz (1.25 meters), 144 MHz (2 meters) & 440 MHz (70 centimeters) bands. It also features a general-coverage receiver, meaning it can operate as a receiver on many additional bands. The radio's magnesium alloy case is available in black anodized or silver (clear anodized). The model number suffix "B" or "S" denotes which color, black or silver respectively.
The radio is designed to operate in extreme conditions. It is designed to be shockproof, and is sealed against water and chemicals, making it well-suited for emergency-services duty. Available accessories include remote microphones, earphones, barometric pressure sensor module, and adapters for digital communications modes.
Feature overview
- 900 Memories
- Wideband receiver, 500 kHz - 999 MHz (the US version has cellular telephone frequencies blocked)
- True user-selectable Dual Receive
- Backlit Keypad & LCD
- Sensors for temperature, voltage (internal battery or external power source), real-time clock, and barometric pressure (optional module)
- User-definable icon images for bands, S-Meter glyphs and font characters
- Waterproof (3 foot depth for 30 minutes)
- 132 x 64 pixel back-lit dot matrix display
Selected specifications
Receive:
Frequency Range Transmit:
- 50 - 54 MHz - 5 Watts FM / 1 Watt AM
- 144 - 148 MHz - 5 Watts
- 222 - 225 MHz - 300 mW (US version)
- 430 - 450 MHz - 5 Watts
Output power on each band (except 222 MHz) can be reduced from 5 watts to 2.5 watts, 1 watt, or 50 milliwatts (on 222 MHz can be reduced from 300 milliwatts to 50 milliwatts). Reducing output power allows the transceiver to be used over shorter communication distances for longer battery life.
Characteristics
The VX-7R can transmit in AM at a 1 watt carrier power on the six meter band. This mode of operation allows the VX-7R to be used to drive a combination of bands functions reasonably well. The "Sub" VFO is limited to frequencies around the 50, 144, and 440 amateur bands, while the "Main" VFO has a much broader frequency coverage.
Modifications
The VX-7R can be modified to transmit on MARS and CAP frequencies through both hardware and software techniques, however this radio does not meet NTIA standards for either MARS or CAP. The hardware modification requires the removal of small solder contacts located under the battery pack. The software modification can be made with the VX Commander software through a data interface cable. Both modifications obtain the same result, except that the software modification will be disabled if the radio is hard-reset.
Soon after the release of the VX-7R a design flaw was discovered related to the radio's waterproof housing. Due to the watertight housing of the radio, it was also airtight. This resulted in a pressure differential between the inside of the radio and the atmosphere, caused by changes in barometric pressure or altitude. This pressure differential prevented proper oscillation of the speaker diaphragm, resulting in reduced and muffled audio output. Yaesu remedied the problem by adding a small valve under the bottom left rubber armor, which allows equalization of the interior pressure with the atmosphere. The design change was reflected in all new radios produced from that point on, and any older radios sent in for repair are retrofitted with this modification.
Some VX-7R owners complained of poor microphone sensitivity, which resulted in low audio levels on transmit. A crude modification was developed by end-users to solve the problem, at the expense of sacrificing the radio's waterproof capability. If small holes are pierced in the rubber seal covering the microphone diaphragm, then sound waves can better reach the microphone diaphragm, resulting in better audio sensitivity.
The VX-7R is capable of being programmed with the open source Chirp software.
Faults and Problems
After couple of years in service the radio might become insensitive to narrow-band FM signals as it has been reported by several users. Broadcast range FM reception and transmitting on all bands is not affected. This is usually caused by failure of one (or both) ceramic filters marked LTM450FW. The unit can be sent to the manufacturer or authorized service center for repairs, but skilled users reported successful repairs by replacing the filter(s) with same or equivalent part. Since design of the intermediate frequency path is similar to other VX-series radios, the failure mode is common with other models. The original design skips the DC blocking capacitors in the output of the filter which are otherwise recommended by the component manufacturer. Some users applied additional measures (inserting the capacitors in series with the output pin) to prevent premature failures of the ceramic filters.
VX-8R
The Yaesu VX-8R is a handheld transceiver for use on the amateur radio bands. It is a "quad band" transceiver.
The radio is designed to operate in extreme conditions. It is designed to be shockproof, and is sealed against water and chemicals, making it well-suited for emergency-services duty. Available accessories include remote microphones, earphones, barometric pressure sensor module, and adapters for digital communications modes.
The Yaesu VX-8R HT provides 5 watts FM on 50/144/430 MHz and 1.5 watts on 222 MHz. It supports Bluetooth hands-free operation with the optional BU-1 and BH-1 or BH-2 accessories. There is also an optional GPS unit. The radio supports APRS 1200/9600 bit/s data communication (B band only). Like the VX7R, the VX8R is submersible and meets IPX57 specifications (3 feet for minimum of 30 minutes). A 7.4 V 1100 mAh Lithium Ion battery is included. It measures 2.36 x 3.74 x 0.92 inches. It supports simultaneous independent 2-signal dual receive function with both V + V or U + U. A barometric sensor is included. The receive coverage is wider than VX-7R, with an independent AM/FM broadcast receiver circuit and internal AM antenna, similar to the VX-5. The dot matrix LCD display provides Memory tag up to a maximum of 16 characters. It also has a primitive spectrum analyzer with ±60 channels indication with wave monitoring of received/modulated signal.
The VX-8R is capable of being programmed with the open source Chirp software.
The VX-8R has been replaced by the VX-8DR. The Yaesu VX-8DR is an APRS enhanced version of the popular VX8R. Key additional features of the VX-8DR include:
- Smart Beaconing Function.
- Station List memories has increased from 40 to 50.
- The number of APRS Message Memories has increased from 20 to 30.
- DIGI-PATH route indication function.
- Heads up compass display to the GPS screen.
- The Message received LED flashing rate is selectable.
- The number of DIGI-PATH route settings has increased from 1 to 7.
References
- CQ ham radio (ed.). VX?????????? [VX Series Guide]. CQ Publications. ISBN 4-7898-1507-2.
- Fort v. Yaesu - Santa Monica Superior Court, Santa Monica, CA - settled out of court.
- Product Review - QST Compares: Dual-band Hand-Held Transceivers - April 1998 QST Magazine ARRL
- VX-2
- Product Review - Yaesu VX-2R Miniature Dual-Band Handheld Transceiver - October 2003 QST Magazine, ARRL
- Vogels, Hanno, DG8JZ. "Neuer Kommunikationszwerg: VX-2E" [New mini communicator: VX-2E] (PDF). Amateurfunk (August 2003). Retrieved 2011-12-08.
- ????, 7M3MQH. "???????? ?????? VX-2" [User report: Vertex Standard VX-2]. CQ ham radio (August 2003).
- VX-3
- Product Review - Yaesu VX-3R Miniature Dual-Band Handheld Transceiver - February 2008 QST Magazine, ARRL
- ?? ?, JO3GGH. "?????? VX-3" [Vertex Standard VX-3]. CQ ham radio (October 2007).
- ??? ??, JR2LQV. "VX-3?????USB???????" [VX-3 memory editing: production of the USB cable]. CQ ham radio (February 2010).
- VX-5
- Maybe, Jay, NU0X (1999). "The Yaesu VX-5R Tri-band H-T" (PDF). QST. No. May 1999. ARRL. Retrieved 2011-12-07.
- Flechtner, Ulrich. "Drei Bander, Scanner und mehr: Dreiband-Handfunkgerat VX-5R von Yaesu" [Three bands, scanner and more: triband handheld radio Yaesu VX-5R] (PDF). Amateurfunk (June 1999). Retrieved 2011-12-08.
- "????? ??????VX-5" [New product: Yaesu VX-5]. CQ ham radio (February 1999).
- VX-6
- Product Review - Yaesu VX-6R VHF/UHF Handheld Transceiver - December 2005 QST Magazine, ARRL
- Product Review - eHam submitted reviews
- VX-7
- "Yaesu VX-7R Handheld Tranceiver Product Review". QST. Newington, Connecticut: ARRL. October 2002.
- Vogels, Hanno, DG8JZ (October 2002). "Yaesus "submersible" Handfunkgerat -- der VX-7R" [Yaesu's "submersible" handheld radio - the VX-7R] (PDF). Amateurfunktechnik.
- ?? ??, 7N3MQH. "50/144/430 MHz?????? VX-7" [50/144/430 MHz transceiver VX-7]. CQ ham radio (June 2002).
- VX-8
- Wood, John WV5J (2010). "Yaesu VX-8R Handheld". CQ Amateur Radio (July 2010).
- Price, Brennan, N4QX (2009). "Yaesu VX-8R Handheld Transceiver". QST. No. July 2009. ARRL. p. 41.
- ?? ??, JS1CYI. "?????? ?????? VX-8" [Vertex Standard VX-8]. CQ ham radio (December 2008).
- ?? ??, JS1CYI. "50/144/430 MHz FM/AM ??????????? ?????? ?????? VX-8" [50/144/430 MHz FM / AM Handheld Transceiver Vertex Standard VX-8]. CQ ham radio (February 2009).
- ?? ??, JS1CYI. "APRS??? VX-8????,????APRS??" [APRS Practical Guide: VX-8: enjoy your first APRS operations]. CQ ham radio (February 2009).
- ?? ??, JA3PYH. "APRS???????,?????????????? VX-8?APRS??????!" [VX-8 debuts with APRS with much ado!]. CQ ham radio (June 2009).
- ?? ??, JS1CYI. "?????????????? ?????? VX-8" [First impressions: Standard VX-8]. CQ ham radio (November 2008).
- ?? ??, JE1WVQ, WS6J. "?????? ?????? VX-8?????????"FTBVX8J"" [Memory management software for Vertex Standard VX-8: "FTBVX8J"]. CQ ham radio (October 2009). CS1 maint: Multiple names: authors list (link)
External links
- VX-1R
- VX-1R on Rigpix database
- VX-1R on the Yaesu website
- eHam.net review of the VX-1R
- VX-1R Modifications and tips
- VX-2R
- Yaesu's page on the VX-2R
- KC8UNJ's VX-2R Commander programming software
- Schematics and modifications
- Rigpix Database - Yaesu VX-2R
- VX-3R
- VX-3R reviews on eHam.net
- VX-5R on Rigpix database
- VX-6R
- Yaesu VX-6R Home Page
- VX-6R Brochure
- VX-6R Operating Manual
- VX-7R
- Yaesu VX-series sensitivity issues
- VX-8
- Third-party programming software by KC8UNJ
- Yaesu VX-8 product index
Source of article : Wikipedia
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