Yaesu Musen FT-2800M Amateur Transceiver User Manual Introduction
Yaesu Musen Co., Ltd. Amateur Transceiver Introduction
users manual
FCC ID: K66FT-2800M
OPERATING MANUAL
Vertex Standard Co., Ltd.
1
FT-2800M Operating Manual
Introduction
The FT-2800M is a deluxe, rugged FM mobile transceiver providing high power output
and outstanding receiver performance for the 144 MHz band. Included in the FT-
2800M’s feature complement are:
60 Watts of power output, with selection of four power levels for every operating
situation.
Expanded receiver coverage: 137-174 MHz.
Keyboard entry of operating frequencies from the microphone.
Excellent protection from receiver intermodulation distortion, thanks to Yaesu’s
renowned Advanced Track Tuning front end.
219 memories which can store repeater shifts, odd repeater shifts, CTCSS/DCS
tones, and 6-character Alpha-Numeric labels for easy channel recognition.
10 NOAA Weather Broadcast Channel.
Built-in CTCSS and DCS Encoder/Decoder circuits.
The Smart SearchTM feature, which automatically sweeps a band and loads active
frequencies into dedicated memory banks, is ideal for identifying active repeaters
when visiting a city for the first time.
Extensive Menu system, which allows customization of a number of transceiver
performance characteristics.
The Yaesu-exclusive multi-function LCD display.
Additional features include a transmit Time-Out-Timer (TOT), Automatic Power-Off
(APO), Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS), plus provision for reduction of the Tx deviation
in areas of high channel congestion. And an RF Squelch circuit allows the owner to set
the squelch to open at a programmable setting of the S-Meter, thus reducing guesswork
in setting the squelch threshold.
Congratulations on your purchase of the FT-2800M! Whether this is your first rig, or if
Yaesu equipment is already the backbone of your station, the Yaesu organization is
committed to ensuring your enjoyment of this high-performance transceiver, which
should provide you with many years of satisfying operation. Yaesu’s dealer network and
technical support personnel stand behind every product we sell, and we invite you to
contact us should you require technical advice or assistance.
We recommend that you read this manual in its entirety prior to installing the FT-
2800M, so that you fully understand the capabilities of your new transceiver.
FCC ID: K66FT-2800M
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Specifications
General
Frequency Range: Tx 144 - 146 MHz or 144 - 148 MHz
Rx 144 - 146 MHz or 137 - 174 MHz
Channel Step: 5/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100 kHz
Standard Repeater Shift ±600 kHz
Frequency Stability: better than ±10 ppm
[–4 °F to +140 °F (–20 °C to +60 °C)]
Mode of Emission: F2/F3
Antenna Impedance: 50-ohms, unbalanced
Supply voltage: 13.8 V DC ±15%, negative ground
Current Consumption (typical): Rx: less than 0.7 A, less than 0.3 A (squelched)
Tx: 10 A (60 W)/6 A (25 W)/3 A (10 W)/2 A (5 W)
Operating Temperature Range: ????
Case Size (WxHxD): 6.3 x 2.0 x 7.3 inch (160 x 50 x 185 mm) (w/o knobs)
Weight (Approx.): 4.0 lb (1.8 kg)
Transmitter
Output Power: 60 W/25 W/10 W/5 W
Modulation Type: Variable Reactance
Maximum Deviation: ±5 kHz/±2.5 kHz
Spurious Radiation: better than –60 dB
Microphone Impedance: 2-kohm
Receiver
Circuit Type: Double Conversion Superheterodyne
Ifs: 21.7 MHz & 450 kHz
Sensitivity (for 12dB SINAD): better than 0.2 µV
Selectivity (–6/–60dB): 12 kHz/28 kHz
IF Rejection: better than 70 dB
Image Rejection: better than 70 dB
Adjacent Channel Selectivity better than 70 dB
Inter Modulation better than 95 dB
Maximum AF Output: 3.5 W into 4-ohms @10 % THD
Specifications subject to change without notice or obligation.
FCC ID: K66FT-2800M
OPERATING MANUAL
Vertex Standard Co., Ltd.
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Accessory & Options
Supplied Accessories
Microphone MH-48A6J 1
Mobile Mounting Bracket MMB-?? 1
DC Power Cord w/Fuse (T9????????) 1
Spare Fuse 15 A (Q????????) 1
Standing Foot (R????????) 2
Operating Manual 1
Warranty Card 1
Optional Accessories
????????
????????
Installation
This chapter describes the installation procedure for integrating the FT-2800M into a
typical amateur radio station. It is presumed that you possess technical knowledge and
conceptual understanding consistent with your status as a licensed radio amateur.
Please take some extra time to make certain that the important safety and technical
requirements detailed in this chapter are followed closely.
Preliminary Inspection
Inspect the transceiver visually immediately upon opening the packing carton. Confirm
that all controls and switches work freely, and inspect the cabinet for any damage.
Gently shake the transceiver to verify that no internal components have been shaken
loose due to rough handling during shipping.
If any evidence of damage is discovered, document it thoroughly and contact the
shipping company (or your local dealer, if the unit was purchased over-the-counter) so
as to get instructions regarding the prompt resolution of the damage situation. Be
certain to save the shipping carton, especially if there are any punctures or other
evidence of damage incurred during shipping; if it is necessary to return the unit for
service or replacement, use the original packing materials but put the entire package
inside another packing carton, so as to preserve the evidence of shipping damage for
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insurance purposes.
Installation Tips
To ensure long life of the components, be certain to provide adequate ventilation around
the cabinet of the FT-2800M.
Do not install the transceiver on top of another heat-generating device (such as a power
supply or amplifier), and do not place equipment, books, or papers on top of the FT-
2800M. Avoid heating vents and window locations that could expose the transceiver to
excessive direct sunlight, especially in hot climates. The FT-2800M should not be used
in an environment where the ambient temperature exceeds +60 °C.
Safety Information
The FT-2800M is an electrical apparatus, as well as a generator of RF (Radio
Frequency) energy, and you should exercise all safety precautions as are appropriate for
this type of device. These safety tips apply to any device installed in a well-designed
amateur radio station.
(!): Never allow unsupervised children to play in the vicinity of your transceiver or
antenna installation.
(!): Be certain to wrap any wire or cable splices thoroughly with insulating electrical
tape, to prevent short circuits.
(!): Do not route cables or wires through door jambs or other locations where, through
wear and tear, they may become frayed and shorted to ground or to each other.
(!): Do not stand in front of a directional antenna while you are transmitting into that
antenna. Do not install a directional antenna in any location where humans or pets
may be walking in the main directional lobe of the antenna’s radiation pattern.
(!): In mobile installations, it is preferable to mount your antenna on top of the roof of
the vehicle, if feasible, so as to utilize the car body as a counterpoise for the antenna
and raise the radiation pattern as far away from passengers as possible.
(!): During vehicular operation when stopped (in a parking lot, for example), make it a
practice to switch to Low power if there are people walking nearby.
(!): Never wear dual-earmuff headphones while driving a vehicle.
(!): Do not attempt to drive your vehicle while making a telephone call on an autopatch
using the DTMF microphone. Pull over to the side of the road, whether dialing
manually or using the auto-dial feature.
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Antenna Consideration
The FT-2800M is designed for use with antennas presenting an impedance of near 50
Ohms at all operating frequencies. The antenna (or a 50 Ohm dummy load) should be
connected whenever the transceiver is turned on, to avoid damage that could otherwise
result if transmission occurs accidentally without an antenna.
Ensure that your antenna is designed to handle 60 Watts of transmitter power. Some
magnetic-mount mobile antennas, designed for use with hand-held transceivers, may
not be capable of withstanding this power level. Consult the antenna manufacturer’s
specification sheet for details.
Most all FM work is performed using vertical polarization. When installing a directional
antenna such as a Yagi or Cubical Quad, be certain to orient it so as to produce vertical
polarization, unless you are engaged in a special operating situation where horizontal
polarization is used. In the case of a Yagi antenna, orient the elements vertically for
vertical polarization; for a Cubical Quad, the feedpoint should be at the center of one of
the vertical sides of the driven element (or at a side corner, in the case of a diamond-
shaped Cubical Quad).
Excellent reference texts and computer software are available for the design and
optimization of VHF antennas. Your dealer should be able to assist you with all aspects
of your antenna installation requirements.
Use high-quality 50 Ohm coaxial cable for the lead-in to your FT-2800M transceiver. All
efforts at providing an efficient antenna system will be wasted if poor quality, lossy
coaxial cable is used. Losses in coaxial lines increase as the frequency increases, so an
8-meter-long (25’ coaxial line with 1/2 dB of loss at 29 MHz may have a loss of 1.8 dB or
more at 146 MHz; choose your coaxial cable carefully based on the installation location
(mobile vs. base) and the overall length of the cable required (for very short runs of cable
in a mobile installation, the smaller, more flexible cable types may be acceptable).
For reference, the chart below shows approximate loss figures for typically-available
coaxial cables frequently used in VHF installations.
<<Cable Chart>>
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Loss figures are approximate; consult cable manufacturers’ catalogs for complete
specifications.
In outdoor installations, be certain to weatherproof all connectors thoroughly, as water
entering a coaxial cable will cause losses to escalate rapidly, thus diminishing your
communications effectiveness. The use of the shortest possible length of the highest
quality coaxial cable that fits within your budget will ensure the best performance from
your FT-2800M.
Mobile Installation
The FT-2800M must only be installed in vehicles having a 13.8 Volt negative ground
electrical system. Mount the transceiver where the display, controls, and microphone
are easily accessible, using the supplied MMB-?? mounting bracket.
The transceiver may be installed in almost any location, but should not be positioned
near a heating vent nor anywhere where it might interfere with driving (either visually
or mechanically). Make sure to provide plenty of space on all sides of the transceiver so
that air can flow freely around the radio’s case. Refer to the diagrams showing proper
installation procedures.
Transceiver Installation
Choose a mounting location with sufficient clearance for the transceiver. Using the
mounting bracket as a template for the mounting holes, use a 4.8 mm (3/16” bit to
drill the mounting holes, and secure the mounting bracket with the supplied screws,
washers, and nuts (see diagram).
Position the transceiver in the bracket so that the holes in the side are aligned with
those in the bracket, and bolt the transceiver into place using the supplied short
screws and flat washers.
Mobile Power Connections
To minimize voltage drop and avoid blowing the vehicle’s fuses, connect the supplied DC
power cable directly to the battery terminals. Do not attempt to defeat or bypass the DC
cable’s fuse - it is there to protect you, your transceiver, and your vehicle’s electrical
system.
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Warning!
Never apply AC power to the power cable of the FT-2800M, nor DC voltage greater than
15.8 Volts. When replacing the fuse, only use a 15-A fuse. Failure to observe these safety
precautions will void the Limited Warranty on this product.
Before connecting the transceiver, check the voltage at the battery terminals while
revving the engine. If the voltage exceeds 15 Volts, adjust the vehicle’s voltage
regulator before proceeding with installation.
Connect the RED power cable lead to the POSITIVE (+) battery terminal, and the
BLACK power cable lead to the NEGATIVE (–) terminal. If you need to extend the
power cable, use #12 AWG or larger insulated, stranded copper wire. Solder the
splice connections carefully, and wrap the connections thoroughly with insulating
electrical tape.
Before connecting the cable to the transceiver, verify the voltage and polarity of the
voltage at the transceiver end of the DC cable using a DC voltmeter. Now connect
the transceiver to the DC cable.
Mobile Speakers
The optional MSL-100 External Speaker includes its own swivel-type mounting bracket,
and is available from your Yaesu dealer.
Other external speakers may be used with the FT-2800M, if they present the specified
8-Ohm impedance and are capable of handling the 3.5 Watts of audio output supplied by
the FT-2800M.
Base Station Installation
The FT-2800M is ideal for base station use as well as in mobile installations. The FT-
2800M is specifically designed to integrate into your station easily, using the
information to follow as a reference.
AC Power Supplies
Operation of the FT-2800M from an AC line requires a power source capable of
providing at least 15 Amps continuously at 13.8 Volts DC. The FP-1023 and FP-1030A
AC Power Supplies are available from your Yaesu dealer to satisfy these requirements.
Other well-regulated power supplies may be used, as well, if they meet the above
voltage and current specifications.
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Use the DC power cable supplied with your transceiver for making power connections to
the power supply. Connect the RED power cable lead to the POSITIVE (+) power supply
terminal, and connect the BLACK power cable lead to the NEGATIVE (–) power supply
terminal.
Front Panel Controls & Switches
1. VOL Knob
This control adjusts the audio volume level. Clockwise rotation increases the
volume level.
2. SQL Knob
This control is used to silence background noise on the receiver. It should be
advanced clockwise just to the point where the noise is silenced (and the “BUSY”
indicator on the display turns off), so as to provide the best sensitivity to weak
signals.
3. Microphone Jack
Connect the supplied MH-48A6J Hand Microphone to this jack.
4. [%] Key
This key allows operating the Internet Connection feature.
5. PWR Key
Press and hold this key for one second to toggle the transceiver’s power on and off.
6. [MHz(SET)] Key
This key allows tuning in 1-MHz steps (the MHz digits will blink on the display). If
receiving on a memory, pressing this key the first time activates the Memory
Tuning mode, and pressing it again enables 1-MHz steps.
Press and hold this key for one second to activate the “Set” (Menu) mode.
7. [REV(DW)] Key
During split-frequency operation, such as through a repeater, this key reverses the
transmit and receive frequencies.
Press and hold this key for one seconds to activate the Dual Watch feature,
described in the Operation chapter (“PRI” will be displayed on the LCD, indicating
“Priority Channel” monitoring).
8. [LOW(A/N)] Key
Press this key momentarily to select the transmitter power output level.
The available power levels are:
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HIGH(60W) Æ MID(25W) Æ LOW2(10W) Æ LOW1(5W)
While receiving on a memory, press and hold this key for one seconds to toggle the
display between indication of the frequency and the channel’s Alpha/Numeric label.
9. [D/MR(MW)] Key
Press this key momentarily to switch the frequency control among the VFO,
Memory System, and Home channel.
Press and hold this key for one second to activate the Memory Storage mode.
10. DIAL Knob
This 24-position detented rotary switch is used for tuning, memory selection and
most function settings. The microphone UP/DWN buttons duplicate the functions of
this knob.
11. Display
The main digits on the display may show operating frequency, memory name, or
any of many parameters during setting.
Microphone Switches
1. PTT Switch
Press this switch to transmit, and release it to receive.
2. Keypad
These 16 keys generate DTMF tones during transmission.
In the receive mode, these 16 keys can be used for direct frequency entry and/or
direct numeric recall of the Memory channels.
3. [P1]/[P2]/[P3]/[P4] Buttons
[P1] button (SQL OFF)
Pressing this button disable the noise and tone squelch system.
[P2] button (S SRCH)
Press this button to activate the Smart Search feature.
[P3] button (T SRCH)
Press this button to activate the Tone Search feature.
[P4] button
Press this button to recall the “Weather” broadcast channel bank.
You can reprogram the [P1], [P2], [P3], and [P4] buttons for other functions, if
desired. See page ?? for details.
4. LAMP Switch
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This switch illuminates the Microphone keypad.
5. LOCK Switch
This switch locks out the Microphone buttons (except for the keypad and PTT
switch).
6. [UP]/[DWN] Button
Press (or hold in) either of these buttons to tune (or scan up or down) the operating
frequency or through the memory channels. In many ways, these buttons emulate
the function of the (rotary) DIAL knob.
Rear Panel Connectors
1. EXT SP Jack
This 2-contact mini 3.5-mm mini phone jacks provide receiver audio output for an
optional external speaker. The audio impedance is 4-ohm, and the level varies
according to the setting of the front panel’s VOL control. Inserting a plug into this
jack disable audio from the transceiver’s internal speaker.
2. 13.8V DC Cable Pigtail w/Fuse
This is the power supply connection for the transceiver. Use the supplied DC cable
to connect this pigtail to the car battery or other DC power supply capable of at
least 10 Amperes (continuous duty). Make certain that the red lead connects to the
positive side of the supply. The fuse is 15-A.
3. ANT Coaxial Socket
Connect a 144-MHz antenna to this type-M (SO-239) socket using 50-ohm coaxial
cable and a type-M (pl-259) plug. Male sure the antenna is designed specifically for
use on the operating frequency.
Basic Operation
R. F. Says: Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the many
features of the FT-2800M. I know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I encourage you to
read “Basic 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!
Turning the Transceiver On and Off
1. To turn the transceiver on, press and hold in the PWR key for one second.
When you turn on the FT-2800M, the current DC supply voltage is indicated on the
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LCD for 2 seconds. After this interval, the display will switch its normal indication
of the operating frequency.
2. To turn the transceiver off, again press and hold in the PWR key for one second.
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level
Rotate the VOL control to adjust the receiver volume. Clockwise rotation increases the
audio output level.
Adjusting the Squelch Setting
Rotate the SQL control just to the point where the noise is silenced and the “BUSY”
indicator on the display turns off. If the SQL control is set further clockwise, sensitivity
to weak signals is reduced.
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.
See page ?? for details
Frequency Navigation
1) Tuning Dial
Rotating the DIAL knob allows tuning in the pre-programmed steps. Clockwise rotation
of the DIAL knob causes the FT-2800M to be tuned toward a higher frequency, while
counter-clockwise rotation will lower the operating frequency.
Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL knob, to change the
frequency steps to 1 MHz per step. This feature is extremely useful for making rapid
frequency excursions over the wide tuning range of the FT-2800M.
2) Direct Keypad Frequency Entry
The keypad of the MH-48A6J DTMF Microphone may be used for direct entry of the
operating frequency.
To enter a frequency from the MH-48A6J keypad, just press the numbered digits in the
proper sequence. There is no “decimal point” key on the MH-48A6J keypad. However,
there is a short-cut for frequencies ending in zero - press the [#] key after the last non-
zero digit.
Examples: To enter 146.520 MHz, press [1] Æ [4] Æ [6] Æ [5] Æ [2] Æ [0]
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To enter 146.000 MHz, press [1] Æ [4] Æ [6] Æ [#]
3) Scanning
From the VFO mode, press the microphone’s [UP]/[DWN] keys momentarily to initiate
scanning toward a higher- or lower frequency, respectively. The FT-2800M will stop
when it receives a signal strong enough to break through the squelch threshold. The
FT-2800M will then hold on that frequency according to the setting of the “Resume”
mode (Menu #23 (SCAN); see page ??).
If you wish to reverse the direction of the scan (i.e. toward a lower frequency, instead of
a higher frequency), just rotate the DIAL knob one click in the counter-clockwise
direction while the FT-2800M is scanning. The scanning direction will be reversed. To
revert to scanning toward a higher frequency once more, rotate the DIAL knob one click
clockwise.
Press the [UP]/[DWN] keys again to cancel scanning.
Transmission
To transmit, simply close the PTT (Push To Talk) switch on the microphone when the
frequency is clear. Hold the microphone approximately 1” (25 mm) from your mouth,
and speak into the microphone in a normal voice level. When your transmission is
complete, release the PTT switch; the transceiver will revert .
During transmission, the “TX” indicator will appear at the upper left corner on the
display.
Changing the Transmitter Power Level
You can select from among a total of four transmit power levels on your FT-2800M.
To change the power level, press the [LOW(A/N)] key (or microphone’s [A] key) to select
one of four power settings. These power levels will be stored, in memory registers, at the
time of memory storage (see page ?? for details on Memory operation).
During transmission, the Bar Graph will deflect in the display, according to the power
output selected.
Advanced Operation
Weather Broadcast Reception
The FT-2800M includes a unique feature which allows reception of weather broadcasts
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in the 160-MHz frequency range. Ten standard Weather Broadcast channels are pre-
loaded into a special memory bank.
To listen to a Weather Broadcast Channel:
1. Press the Microphone’s [P4] button to recall the Weather Broadcast channels.
2. Turn the DIAL knob to select the desired Weather Broadcast channel.
3. If you wish to check the other channels for activity by scanning, just press the
Microphone’s PTT switch.
4. To exit to normal operation, press the [P4] button again. Operation will return to
the VFO or Memory channel you were operating on before you began Weather
Broadcast operation.
R.F. Says: In the event of extreme weather disturbances, such as storms and hurricanes,
the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) sends a weather alert
accompanied by a 1050 Hz tone and subsequent weather report on one of the NOAA
weather channels. You may enable the this feature via Menu Item (32 W ALT), if
desired. See page ?? for details.
LOCK Feature
To order to prevent accidental frequency change or inadvertent transmission, various
aspects of the FT-2800M’s keys and knob may be locked out. The possible lockout
combinations are:
KEY: Just the front panel keys are locked out
DIAL: Just the front panel DIAL knob is locked out
K+D: Both the keys and DIAL knob are locked out
PTT: The PTT switch is locked (TX not possible)
K+P: Both keys and PTT switch are locked out
D+P: Both DIAL knob and PTT switch are locked out
ALL: All of the above are locked out
OFF: The Lock feature is disabled
To lock out some or all of the keys:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “14 LOCK.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the display to “OFF.”
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
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to normal operation.
When activate the locking feature, the “KEY” icon will appear on the LCD.
Keypad Beeper
A key/button beeper provides useful audible feedback whenever a key/button is pressed.
If you want to turn the beeper off (or back on again):
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “03 BEEP.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the display to “OFF.”
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Channel Step Selection
Tuning steps are factory present to default increments which are appropriate for the
country to which this radio is exported. To change to another step size as following:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “29 STEP”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired step size
(5/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100 kHz).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Display Brightness
The FT-2800M display illumination has been specially engineered to provide high
visibility with minimal disruption of your “night vision” while you are driving. The
brightness of the display is manually adjustable, using the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “07 DIMR”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select a comfortable
brightness level (1, 2, 3, and OFF).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
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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 S-meter level will open the squelch. To set up
the RF squelch circuit for operation, use the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “20 RF SQL”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired signal
strength level for the squelch threshold (1 - 10 or OFF).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for 1/2 second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Note: The receiver’s squelch will open based on the highest level set by the two squelch
system “Noise Squelch and RF Squelch). For example:
1) If the Noise Squelch (SQL control) is set so that signals at a level of S-3 will open
the squelch, but the RF Squelch (Menu #20) is set to “S-9,” the squelch will only
open on signals which are S-9 or stronger on the S-meter.
2) If the RF Squelch is set to “S-3,” but the Noise Squelch is set to a high level which
will only pass signals which are Full Scale on the S-meter, the squelch will only
open on signals which are Full Scale on the S-meter. In this case, the Noise Squelch
overrides the action of the RF Squelch.
Repeater Operation
The FT-2800M includes a host of convenience features which makes operation on
amateur repeaters both efficient and enjoyable.
Repeater Splits
This transceiver offers three methods of setting up split-frequency operation on
repeaters:
[1] Manual selection of preset repeater shifts;
[2] Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS), providing automatic activation of repeater
shifts during designated repeater frequency subbands; and
[3] Independently stored transmit and receive frequencies (typically not
corresponding to established repeater frequency shifts).
[1] Standard Repeater Shift
To activate the standard shift manually, as following:
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1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “21 RPTR”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired shift
direction (–RPTR, +RPTR, or SIMP).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
With repeater shift activated, you can temporarily reverse the transmit and receive
frequencies by pressing the [REV(DW)] key (or microphone’s [B] key). Use this feature
to display the transmit frequency without transmitting, and to check the strength of
signals on a repeater uplink frequency (so as to determine whether or not a particular
station is within “Simplex” range, for example).
The repeater offset is fixed to 600 kHz from the factory. You can change the offset by
following procedure, if needed:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the knob to select
“24 SHIFT”.
2. Press the [MHz(MHz)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to set the desired offset.
Note that the resolution of the “standard” repeater shift is to the nearest 50 kHz
multiple.
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
[2] Automatic Repeater Shift
The ARS (Automatic Repeater Shift) feature in this transceiver allows easy and
convenient repeater operation by automatically activating the repeater shift function
whenever you tune to a standard repeater sub band. The ARS function is preset at the
factory to conform to the standards for the country to which it is exported.
The ARS function is enabled at the factory. To disable it:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “02 ARS”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to change the display to
“OFF”.
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save your new setting and exit
to normal operation.
To enable the ARS function again, select to “ON” in step 2 above.
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[3] Separate Transmit Frequency Memories
All memory channels can store independent receive and transmit frequencies, to
accommodate occasional non-standard offsets with greater frequency resolution than is
available using the “standard” shift feature.
1. First store the receive (repeater output) frequency. In the VFO mode, tune the
transceiver to the desired receive frequency. Now press and hold the [D/MR(MW)]
key on the for one second.
2. Within five seconds of pressing the [D/MR(MW)] key, use the DIAL knob or
microphone’s [UP]/[DWN] buttons to select the desired memory for storage.
3. Now press the [D/MR(MW)] key momentarily to store the receive frequency into the
selected memory.
4. Next store the transmit (repeater input) frequency. Since you are still in the VFO
mode, tune the transceiver to the desired transmit frequency.
5. Now press and hold the [D/MR(MW)] key for one second.
6. Press and hold the PTT switch, and press the [D/MR(MW)] key momentarily while
holding in the PTT switch. This will not cause transmission, but rather it will
instruct the transceiver that you are programming a separate transmit frequency
into memory.
When you have finished the above procedure, press the [D/MR(MW)] key momentarily.
The channel number and repeater downlink frequency will appears onto the display. If
you press the PTT switch, you will observe the display changing to indicate the
repeater’s uplink frequency. Note also that the display shows “–+” in the upper left-hand
corner; this indicates that an “odd” (non-standard) shift has been stored on this channel.
CTCSS/DCS 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-
2800M, and is very easy to activate.
R. F. Says: CTCSS setup involves two actions: setting the Tone Mode and then setting of
the Tone Frequency. These actions are set up by using the Set mode #28 (SQ TYP) and
#27 (SQ TNF).
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1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “28 SQ TYP”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob so that “T ENC” appears on
the display; this activates the CTCSS Encoder, which allows repeater access.
R. F. Says: You may notice an additional “DC ENC” and “DCS” appearing while you
rotate the DIAL knob in this step. We’ll discuss the Digital Code Squelch system
shortly.
3. Rotating the DIAL knob one more click clockwise in above step will cause “TSQ” to
appear. When “TSQ” appears, this means that the Tone Squelch system is active,
which mutes your FT-2800M’s receiver until it receives a call from another radio
sending out a matching CTCSS tone. This can help keep your radio quiet until a
specific call is received, which may be helpful while operating in congested areas.
4. When you have made your selection of the CTCSS tone mode, press the [MHz(SET)]
key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL knob one click counter-clockwise to select
Menu #27 (SQ TNF). This Menu selection allows setting of the CTCSS tone
frequency to be used.
5. Press the [MHz(SET)] key to enable adjustment of the CTCSS frequency.
6. Rotate the DIAL knob until the display indicates the Tone Frequency you need to be
using.
7. When you have made your selection, press and hold the Press the [MHz(SET)] key
for one second to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
R. F. Says: Your repeater may or may not re-transmit a CTCSS tone - some systems just
use CTCSS to control access to the repeater, but don’t pass it along when transmitting.
If the S-Meter deflects, but the FT-2800M is not passing audio, repeat steps “1” through
“3” above, but rotate the DIAL knob so that “T ENC” appears - this will allow you to
hear all traffic on the channel being received.
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-2800M, 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.
R. F. Says: Just as in CTCSS operation, DCS requires that you set the Tone Mode to
DCS and that you select a Tone Code.
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1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “28 SQ TYP”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob until “DCS” appears on the
display; this activates the DCS Encoder/Decoder.
3. Now, press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL knob to select
Menu #26 (SQ DCS).
4. Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily to enable the adjustment of the DCS code.
5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired DCS Code (a three-digit number).
6. When you have made your selection, press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one
second to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
R. F. Says: 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. Two things must be remembered in this
regard:
You must be sure that your repeater uses the same tone type (CTCSS vs. DCS).
Some repeaters do not pass the CTCSS tone; you may have to listen to the
station(s) transmitting on the repeater uplink (input) frequency in order to
allow Tone Search Scanning to work.
To scan for the tone in use:
1. Set the radio up for either CTCSS or DCS Decoder operation (see the previous
discussion). In the case of CTCSS, “TSQ” will appear on the display; in the case of
DCS, “DCS” will appear on the display.
2. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select Menu #27 (SQ TNF) when CTCSS is selected, or Menu #26 (SQ DCS) during
DCS operation.
3. Press the Microphone’s [P3] key momentarily to start scanning for the incoming
CTCSS or DCS tone/code.
4. When the radio detects the correct tone or code, it will halt on that tone/code, and
audio will be allowed to pass.
5. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to lock in that tone/code and exit
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to normal operation.
R. F. Says: If the Tone Scan feature does not detect a tone or code, it will continue to
scan indefinitely. When this happens, it may be that the other station is not sending any
tone. You can press the Microphone’s [P3] key to halt the scan at any time.
Tone Scanning works either in the VFO or Memory modes.
CTCSS/DCS Bell Paging
During CTCSS Decode or DCS operation, you may set up the FT-2800M such that a
ringing “bell” sound alerts you to the fact that a call is coming in. Here is the procedure
for activating the CTCSS/DCS Bell:
1. Set the transceiver up for CTCSS Decode (“Tone Squelch”) or DCS operation, as
described previously.
2. Adjust the operating frequency to the desired channel.
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “04 BELL”.
4. Rotate the DIAL konb to set the desired number of rings of the Bell. The available
choices are 1, 3, 5, or 8 rings, REPEAT (continuous ringing), or OFF.
5. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
When you are called by a station whose transceiver is sending a CTCSS tone or DCS
code which matches that set into your Decoder, the Bell will ring in accordance to this
programming.
DTMF Autodialer Operation
Nine DTMF Autodialer memories are available on this radio. These DTMF Autodialer
memories can store up to 16 digits of a telephone number for repeater autopatch or
other use.
To load DTMF Autodialer memories, use following procedure:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “10 DT MEM”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the DTMF
Autodialer memory channel number into which you wish store a telephone number
(“DTMF-1” to “DTMF-9”).
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3. Press the [D/MR(MW)] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the
first digit of the telephone number you wish to store.
4. When you have selected the correct digit, press the [REV(DW)] key momentarily.
Now, rotate the DIAL knob to select the second of 16 available numbers in the
current DTMF Autodialer memory resistor.
5. Repeat this procedure for each digit in the telephone number. If you a mistake,
press the microphone’s [DWN] key to move back to the first digit, then re-enter the
correct number.
6. When entry of all digits is complete, press the [MHz(SET)] key.
7. If you wish to store another DTMF string, repeat steps 2 through 6 above.
8. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
To transmit the memorized telephone number, use the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “08 DTMF”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to set the DTMF Autodialer
memory function to the “ON” position (the “Telephone” icon will appear).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
4. In the Autodialer function mode, first press the PTT switch, the press the
microphone’s numeric key ([1] through [9]) corresponding to the DTMF memory
string you wish to send. Once the string begins, you may release the PTT switch, as
the transmitter will be held “on the air” until the DTMF string is completed.
To disable the Autodialer function mode, select “OFF” in step “2” above.
The speed at which the DTMF digits are sent can be changed. Two speed levels are
available: Low (10 digits per second) and High (20 digits per second: default). To toggle
between Low and High speed, use the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “11 DT SPD”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired speed
(“50”: High speed or “100”: Low speed).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
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You can also set a longer delay between the time your transmitter is keyed and the first
DTMF digit is send. To set a delay time, use the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “09 DT DLY”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired speed
(50/250/450/750/1000 ms).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Memory Operation
Memory Storage
To store a frequency into memory:
1. In the VFO mode, select the desired frequency, repeater shift, CTCSS/DCS tone,
and TX power level.
2. Press and hold the [D/MR(MW)] key for one second. A memory number will appear
blinking in the display.
3. Within five seconds of pressing the [D/MR(MW)] key, use the DIAL knob to select
the desired memory for storage.
4. Press the [D/MR(MW)] key again, this time momentarily, to store the displayed
data into the selected memory channel slot. The memory label will disappear (since
you are still operating in the VFO mode).
Storing Independent Transmit Frequencies (“Odd Splits”):
1. Store the receiving frequency using the method already described.
2. Turn to the desired transmit frequency, the press and hold [D/MR(MW)] key for one
second.
3. Within five seconds of pressing the [D/MR(MW)] key, use the DIAL knob to select
the same memory channel number as used in step 1 above.
4. Press and hold in the PTT switch, then press the [D/MR(MW)] key momentarily
while holding the PTT switch to save the entry and exit to normal operation. This
will not cause transmission; instead, it signals the microprocessor that a separate
transmit frequency is being programmed into that memory register.
R. F. Says: Whenever you recall a memory which contains independently-stored
transmit and receive frequencies, the “–+” indication will appear in the display.
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Memory Recall
1. Press the [D/MR(MW)] key, repeatedly if necessary, until “MR” icon and memory
channel number appears on the display; this indicates that the memory channel is
recalled (Memory Mode).
2. When more than one memory has been stored, use the DIAL knob to select a
memory for operation. Alternatively, microphone’s [UP] or [DWN] button may be
used to stop or scan through the available memories. When using the microphone’s
buttons, press and release the button to move one step up or down; press and hold
the [UP] or [DWN] button for one second to begin memory scanning.
Memory Recall from the Microphone’s keypad:
While operating on the Memory Recall mode, the keypad of the MH-48A6J Microphone
may be used for direct recall of memory channels.
To do this, press the Channel Number you wish to recall, then press the [½] key. For
example, to recall Memory Channel “5,” press [5] Æ [½]. To recall Memory Channel
“118,” press [1] Æ [1] Æ [8] Æ [½].
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 club name, etc.). This is easily accomplished
using the Menu mode.
1. Recall the memory channel on which you wish to append a label.
2. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “00 ALPH”.
3. Press the [MHz(SET)] key. You will notice the first entry’s place blink. Within the
A/N entry mode, rotate the DIAL knob to select characters, and pressing the
[REV(DW)] key to move the character’s entry place to the right.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired number, letter, or symbol, then press the
[D/MR] key to move the next character’s place.
5. Do this as necessary to complete a name tag (up to six characters) for your memory,
then press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily to save the A/N name entry.
6. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to exit to normal operation.
While operating on the Memory Recall mode, press and hold the [LOW(A/N)] key for one
seconds to toggle the display between indication of the frequency and the channel’s
Alpha/Numeric label.
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Memory 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 FT-2800M in the Memory Recall mode, select the desired memory channel.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily. The “MR” indicator will be blinks; this
indicates that the Memory Tuning.
3. Rotate the DIAL knob, as desired, to tune to anew frequency. The synthesizer steps
for VFO operation will be the steps used during Memory Tuning.
4. IF you wish to return to the original memory frequency, press the [D/MR(MW)] key
momentarily. The “MR” indicator will be stop the blinking.
5. If you wish to store a new frequency set during Memory Tuning, just press and hold
in the [D/MR(MW)] key for one second, per normal memory storage procedure.
Deleting Memories
With 219 total memories available, there frequently are situations where you may
desire to delete certain memories temporarily (except the Memory Channel “1”). The
procedure for deleting a channel is quite simple:
1. Press and hold the [D/MR(MW)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select the memory channel on which you wish to be deleted.
2. Press the [LOW(A/N)] key momentarily. The “CLEAR” will be appear on the
display.
3. Press again the [LOW(A/N)] key momentarily. This will cause the display to shift to
Memory Channel “00,” and the previously-selected memory will be deleted.
Important Note: Once deleted, channel data cannot be recovered.
Home Channel Memory
A Convenient one-touch “Home” channel memory is available to simplify return to your
most-often-used frequency. This memory do not appear in the regular memory banks,
simplify operation.
To recall the Home channel, just press the [D/MR(MW)] key repeatedly, if necessary,
until “HM” icon appears on the display; this indicates that the Home Channel is
recalled.
The factory default frequency for the Home channel is 144.000 MHz. You can re-
program the Home channel in a manner identical to that used for the regular memories:
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1. From the VFO mode, tune in the frequency you wish to store, and set all repeater
shifts and other data just the way you do for “normal” memory channel storage.
2. Press and hold the [D/MR] key for one second, then press the [REV(DW)] key to
store the displayed data into the Home channel. The memory label will disappear
(since you are still operating in the VFO mode).
You may also append an alpha-numeric “Tag” (label) to a Home channel, described
previously.
Memory-Only Mode
Once memory channel programming has been completed, you may place the radio in a
“Memory Only” mode, whereby VFO and Home Channel operation are impossible. This
may be particularly useful during public-service events where a number of operators
may be using the radio for first time, and ultimate simplicity of channel selection is
desired.
To place the radio into the Memory Only mode, turn it off. Now press and hold in the
[MHz(SET)] and [D/MR(MW)] keys while turning the radio on. The VFO and Home
Channel will now be disabled.
To return to normal operation, repeat the above power-on procedure.
Scanning
The FT-2800M’s scanning capability provides the operator with many convenient
methods of rapid frequency navigation.
Basic Scanner Operation
Before activating the scanner, make sure that the Squelch is set to silence the
background noise when no signal is present.
Scanning may be started or stopped using the microphone’s [UP] or [DWN] button. The
following techniques are used for scanning:
Press and hold either the [UP] or [DWN] button for one second in the VFO mode
will causes upward or downward band scanning, respectively, to begin.
Press and hold either the [UP] or [DWN] button for one second in the Memory mode
will causes memory channel scanning toward a higher- or lower-numbered memory
channel, respectively.
Scanning pauses when a signal opens the squelch, and the decimal point on the
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display will blink. You can choose one of three scan-resume modes (described later).
To holt the scan manually, the easiest way is to push the PTT switch on the
microphone momentarily (no transmission will occur while you are scanning). The
scan may also be halted manually by pressing the microphone’s [UP] or [DWN]
button, or the [D/MR(MW)] key.
Scan-Resume Options
Three scan-resume modes are available on the radio:
In the “BUSY” mode, the scanner will remain halted for as long as there is carrier
present on the channel; after the carrier drops at the end of the other station’s
transmission, the scanner will resume.
In the “HOLD” mode, the scanner will halt on a signal it encounters. It will not
restart automatically; you must manually re-initiate scanning if you wish to
resume.
In the “5 SEC” mode, the scanner will halt for five seconds only, after which
scanning will resume (whether or not the other station is still transmission).
To change the scan-resume mode, as following:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “23 SCAN”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired scan-
resume mode (BUSY/HOLD/5 SEC).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Memory Skip Scanning
When you have some continuously-active channels in memories, you may wish to skip
them for scanning, but still have them available for manual selection.
To mask a memory to be skipped during scanning, as following:
1. Set the radio to memory mode by pressing the [D/MR(MW)] key repeatedly, if
necessary.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Memory Channel to be skipped during scanning.
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “25 SKIP”.
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4. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob so as to select “SKIP”. The
current Memory Channel will now be ignored during scanning. The “ONLY”
selection is used for “Preferential Memory Scan,” described in the next column.
5. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
A “SKIP” icon will appear when you recall the “skipped” memory channel manually.
To re-institute a channel into the scanning loop, select “OFF” in step 4 above (the
“Skipped” channel will, of course, still be accessible via manual channel selection
methods using the DIAL knob in the Memory mode, whether or not it is locked out of
the scanning loop).
Preferential Memory Scan
The FT-2800M 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
“SKIP” 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 “SKIP”
icon appended, only those channels bearing the Blinking “SKIP” icon will be scanned. If
you initiate scanning on a channel which does not have the Blinking “SKIP” icon
appended, you will scan all channels including those with the Blinking “SKIP” icon
appended.
Here is the procedure for setting up and using the Preferential Scan List:
1. Set the radio to memory mode by pressing the [D/MR(MW)] key repeatedly, if
necessary.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Memory Channel which you wish to add to the
Preferential Scan List.
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “25 SKIP”.
4. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob so as to select “ONLY.”
5. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
To initiate Preferential Memory Scan:
1. Set the radio to memory mode by pressing the [D/MR(MW)] key repeatedly, if
necessary.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select any memory channel which has a Blinking” “SKIP”
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icon appended to the channel number.
3. Press and hold either the microphone’s [UP] or [DWN] button for one second to
initiate Preferential Memory Scanning. Only the channels which have a Blinking
“SKIP” icon appended to the channel number will be scanned.
Programmable Band-Scan Limits
Besides band and memory scanning, this radio can be set to tune or scan only the
frequencies between user-defined lower and upper limits. For example, you may wish to
limit tuning/scanning to 144.5 - 148.0 MHz, to avoid encroachment on the SSB/CW
sub-band between 144.0 and 144.5 MHz
These scanning limits are stores in special “Sub-Band Limit Memories” labeled L0/U0
through L9/U9, with “L” and “U” designations representing the Lower and Upper limit,
respectively.
To utilize this feature, use the following steps:
1. Store the lower edge of the desired scanning/tuning range in memory “L0”, and the
upper edge in memory “U0” (or, alternatively, in memories “L1/U1” through
“L9/U9”).
2. With any of these memories recalled, press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily to
activate the Programmable Band-Scan Limits. The “PMS” icon will be appeared.
Tuning and scanning will now be limited within the just-programmed range.
To cancel the Sub-Band Limits and return to normal memory operation, press the
[D/MR(MW)] key momentarily.
Priority Channel Scanning (Dual Watch)
The FT-2800M’s scanning features include a two-channel scanning capability which
allows you to operate on a VFO, Memory channel or Home 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 Menu mode “23 SCAN.”
See page xx.
Here is the procedure for activating Priority Channel Dual Watch operation:
1. Set the radio to memory mode by pressing the [D/MR(MW)] key repeatedly, if
necessary.
2. Press and hold in the [D/MR(MW)] key for one second (blink the Memory Channel
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Number), then select the memory channel you wish to be the “Priority” channel.
3. Press and hold in the [D/MR(MW)] key for one second. The “P” icon will appear to
the upper left of the “MR” icon, indicating it is the Priority channel.
4. Now set the FT-2800M for operation on another memory channel, Home channel, or
on a VFO frequency.
5. Press and hold the [REV(DW)] key for one second. The display will remain on the
VFO, memory channel selected, or Home channel, but every five seconds the FT-
2800M will check the Priority Channel for activity.
Priority Revert Mode
During Priority channel operation (Dual Watch), a special feature is available which
will allow you to move to the Priority Channel instantly, without waiting for activity to
appear on the Priority Channel.
When this feature is enabled, and priority monitoring is engaged, just press the
microphone’s PTT switch. Operation will instantly revert to the Priority Channel.
To enable Priority Revert operation:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “22 RVRT”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select “ON.”
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
To disable Priority Revert operation, select “OFF” in step 2 above.
Band Edge Beeper
The FT-2800M will automatically “beep” when a band edge is encountered during
scanning (either in standard VFO scanning or during PMS operation). You may enable
this feature (band edge beeper) when the frequency reaches the band edge while
selecting the VFO frequency by the DIALknob.
The procedure for enabling the Band-Edge Beeper is:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “12 EDG BP”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to set this Menu to “ON.”
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
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Smart Search Operation
The Smart Search feature allows you to load frequencies automatically according to
where activity is encountered by your radio. When Smart Search is engaged, the
transceiver will search above and below your current frequency, storing active
frequencies as it goes (without stopping on them even momentarily); these frequencies
are stored into a special Smart Search memory band, consisting of 31 memories (15
above the current frequency, 15 below the current frequency, plus the current frequency
itself).
Two basic operating modes for Smart Search are available:
SINGLE: In this mode, the transceiver will sweep the current band once in each
direction starting on the current frequency. All channels where activity is present will
be loaded into the Smart Search memories; whether or not all 31 memories are filled,
the search will stop after one sweep in each direction.
CONT: In this mode, the transceiver will make one pass in each direction as with
One-Shot searching; if all 31 channels are not filled after the first sweep, however, the
radio will continue sweeping until they are all filled.
Setting the Smart Search Mode
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “30 S SRCH”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Smart
Search mode (see above).
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Storing Smart Search Memories
1. Set the radio to the VFO mode. Be sure that you have the Squelch adjusted
properly (so that band noise is quieted).
2. Press the Microphone’s [P2] key to enter the Smart Search mode. The “S.S” icon
will be appears at the left bottom corner of the display.
3. Press the Microphone’s [A] key to begin Smart Search scanning.
4. As active channels are detected, you will observe the number of “loaded” channels
increasing in the regular memory channel window.
5. Depending on the mode you set for Smart Search operation (“SINGLE” or “CONT”),
the Smart Search scan will eventually terminate, and the LCD will revert to Smart
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Search Memory Channel “C.”
6. To recall the Smart Search memories, rotate the DIAL knob to choose from among
the Smart Search memories.
7. To return to normal operation, press the [D/MR(MW)] key.
R.F. Says: Smart Search is a great tool when visiting a city for the first time. You don’t
need to spend hours looking up repeater frequencies from a reference guidebook…just
ask your FT-2800M where the action is!
Internet Connection Feature
The FT-2800M can be used to access the repeater which provide the Vertex Standard
WIRESTM (Wide-Coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System).
1. Press the [%] key to activate the Internet Connection feature. The “int” icon will
appear in the memory channel field.
2. Rotate the DIAL, while pressing and holding in the [%] key, to select the access
number corresponding to the WIRESTM repeater to which you wish to establish an
Internet link (ask your repeater owner/operator if you don’t know the access
numbers in the network).
3. With the Internet Connection feature activated (as in step 1 above), the FT-2800M
will generate a brief (0.2 second) DTMF tone according to your selection in step 2.
This DTMF tone is sent at the beginning of every transmission to establish or
maintain the link to the remote WIRESTM repeater.
4. To disable the Internet Connection feature, press the [%] key again.
You may access other Internet Link Systems that use a DTMF string for access.
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “10 DT MEM”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily, then load the DTMF tones which you wish
to use to establish an Internet link (ask your repeater owner/operator if you don’t
know the access numbers in the network) into the desired DTMF Memory channel.
1). Rotate the DIAL knob to select the DTMF Autodialer memory channel number
(“DTMF-1” through “DTMF-9”).
2). Press the [D/MR(MW)] key momentarily.
3). Rotate the DIAL knob to select the DTMF code, then press the [REV(DW)] key
momentarily to move the digit.
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4). Repeat step 3) above.
5). Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily to save the new setting.
3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “13 INTNET.”
4. Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL knob to set this Item
to “IRLP” (to enable the alternative Internet Link, and disable the WIRESTM access
option).
5. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
6. Press the [%] key momentarily to activate the Internet Link System. The “int” icon
will then appear in the memory channel field while the Internet Link System
access feature is engaged.
7. Rotate the DIAL knob, while pressing and holding in the [%] key, to select the
DTMF access number (“DTMF-1” ~ “DTMF-9”) corresponding to the Internet link
repeater to which you wish to establish an Internet link.
8. With the Internet link feature activated (as in step 6 above), press the [%] key or
microphone’s [P2] key to send out the DTMF tones according to your selection in
step 7 (to establish the link to the Internet link repeater).
9. To disable the Internet link feature, press the [%] key again.
R. F. Says: To return to WIRESTM, recall Menu “13 INTNET” then set it to “WIRES.”
Miscellaneous Setting
Time-Out Timer
The “Time-Out Timer” (TOT) feature is designed to force the transceiver into the
“receive” mode after a present time period of continuous transmission (the default is 6
minutes). This feature prevents your transceiver from transmitting a “dead carrier” for
a long period of time in the event that the microphone PTT switch is accidentally locked
in the “TX” condition.
The Time-Out Timer’s “switch-to-receive” time may be adjusted, in one minute
increments, for any period between 1 and 60 minutes.
To change the default (6 minutes) time setting as follows:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “31 TOT”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired interval
(between 1 and 60 minutes), or OFF.
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
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to normal operation.
Automatic Power-Off
The “Automatic Power-Off” (APO) feature will turn the radio completely off after a
user-defined period of PTT or key/button inactivity. If you do not press any front panel
keys or buttons, rotate the DIAL knob or use the microphone’s keys and buttons, or
transmit, and so long as the transceiver is not scanning or engaged in priority
monitoring, the radio will shut itself off after the specified time period. This feature is
useful in minimizing battery drain in a mobile installation if you forget to turn the
transceiver off when you leave your vehicle.
To activate the APO feature as follows:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “01 APO”.
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired “switch-
off” time (between 1 and 12 hours), or OFF.
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Programming the key assignment
Default FT-2800M key functions have been assigned to Microphone’s [P1]/[P2]/[P3]/[P4]
buttons at the factory. These may be changed by the user, if you wish to make another
function.
To programming the function:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select the Menu Item to be configured (“15 PRG P1,” “16 PRG P2,” “17 PRG P3,” or
“18 PRG P4”).
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the function you
wish to assign to the button you selected in the previous step. The available choices
are:
DC IN: Indicates the current DC supply voltage
DIMR:
WX CH:
INTKEY:
SKIP:
SQLOFF: Opens the Squelch to allow un-muted reception
S SRCH:
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TONE: Selects CTCSS frequency
T SRCH:
T CALL: Activates 1750 Hz Tone Burst
RPTR: Selects Repeater Shift direction
3. Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily to save the new setting, then rotate the
DIAL knob to select another programmable button to modify, if desired, and repeat
above steps.
4. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to exit to normal operation.
FM Bandwidth & MIC Gain Control
You can reduce the microphone input level and receiver bandwidth when operating on
tightly-clustered frequencies (channel spacing of 12.5 or 15 kHz). This will reduce the
transmitter and receiver deviation, thus minimizing interference to other users (and
improving reception, as well).
To configure for the narrower bandwidth, use the following procedure:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to
select “33 W/N DV.”
2. Press the [MHz(SET)] key, then rotate the DIAL knob to change the display to
“NARROW.”
3. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to save the new setting and exit
to normal operation.
Reset Procedure
In some instances of erratic or unpredictable operation, the cause may be corruption of
data in the microprocessor (due to static electricity, etc.). If this happens, resetting of
the microprocessor may restore normal operation. Note that all memories will be erased
if you do a complete microprocessor reset, as described below.
Microprocessor Resetting
To clear all memories and other settings to factory defaults:
1. Turn the radio off.
2. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)], [REV(SET)], [LOW(A/N)] and [D/MR(MW)] keys
while turning the radio on. The “MASRST” will be appears on the display.
3. Press the [D/MR(MW)] key momentarily to reset all settings to their factory
defaults (press any other key to cancel the Reset procedure).
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Set Mode Resetting
To reset the Set (Menu) mode settings to their factory defaults:
1. Turn the radio off.
2. Press and hold in the [REV(SET)], [LOW(A/N)] and [D/MR(MW)] keys while
turning the radio on. The “SETRST” will be appears on the display.
3. Press the [D/MR(MW)] key momentarily to reset the Set (Menu) mode settings to
their factory defaults (press any other key to cancel the Reset procedure).
Cloning
The FT-2800M includes a convenient “Clone” feature, which allows the memory and
configuration data from one transceiver to be transferred to another FT-2800M. 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 between the MIC jacks of the two radios.
3. Press and hold in the [MHz(SET)], [LOW(A/N)] and [D/MR(MW)] keys while
turning the radios on. Do this for both radios (the order of switch-on does not
matter). “TX RX” will appear on the displays of both radios when the Clone mode is
successfully activated in this step.
4. On the Destination radio, press the [D/MR(MW)] key (“????” will appear on the
LCD).
5. Press the [MHz(SET)] key on the Source radio; “????” will appear on the Source
radio, and the data from this radio will be transferred to the other radio.
6. If there is a problem during the cloning process, “ERROR” will be displayed. Check
your cable connections and battery voltage, and try again.
7. If the data transfer is successful, “????” will reappear on both displays. Turn both
radios off and disconnect the cloning cable. You can then turn the radios back on,
and begin normal operation.
Menu (“Set”) Mode
The FT-2800M Set (Menu) mode, already described in parts of many previous chapters,
is easy to activate and set. It may be used for configuration of a wide variety of
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transceiver parameters, some of which have not been detailed previously. Use the
following procedure to activate the Set (Menu) mode:
1. Press and hold the [MHz(SET)] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Menu Item to be adjusted.
3. Press the [MHz(SET)] key momentarily to enable adjustment of the selected Menu
item, then rotate the DIAL knob to perform the actual adjustment.
4. After completing your selection and adjustment, press and hold in the [MHz(SET)]
key for one second to exit the Set mode and exit to normal operation.
Menu Selection Details
00 ALPH
Function: Programming an Alpha/Numeric label for a memory. See page ?? for details.
01 APO
Function: Enables/disables the Automatic Power Off feature.
Available Values: 1H - 12 H, or OFF
Default: OFF
02 ARS
Function: Activates/deactivates the Automatic Repeater Shift feature.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: ON
03 BEEP
Function: Enables/disables the key beeper.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: ON
04 BELL
Function: Selects the CTCSS/DCS Bell Ringer repetitions.
Available Values: 1, 3, 5, 8, REPEAT, or OFF
Default: OFF
05 CK SFT
Function: Shifting of CPU clock frequency.
Available Values: ON/OFF
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Default: OFF
This function is only used to move a spurious response “birdie,” shold it fall on a desired
frequency.
06 DC IN
Function: Indicate the Supply Voltage.
07 DIMR
Function: Setting of the front panel display’s illumination level.
Available Values: 1, 2, 3, or OFF
Default: 2
08 DTMF
Function: Enables/disables the DTMF Autodialer.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
09 DT DLY
Function: Setting of the DTMF Autodialer Delay Time.
Available Values: 50/250/450/750/1000 (ms)
Default: 450 (ms)
10 DT MEM
Function: Loading of the DTMF Autodialer Memories. See page ?? for details.
11 DT SPD
Function: Setting of the DTMF Autodialer Sending Speed.
Available Values: 50/100 (ms)
Default: 50 (ms)
12 EDG BP
Function: Enables/disable the Band-edge beeper while scanning.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: ON
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13 INTNET
Function: Select the Internet Connection mode.
Available Values: WIRES/IRLP
Default: WIRES
14 LOCK
Function: Select the Control Locking Lockout combination.
Available Values: KEY/DIAL/K+D/PTT/K+P/D+P/ALL/OFF
Default: OFF
KEY: Just the front panel keys are locked out
DIAL: Just the front panel DIAL knob is locked out
K+D: Both the keys and DIAL knob are locked out
PTT: The PTT switch is locked (TX not possible)
K+P: Both keys and PTT switch are locked out
D+P: Both DIAL knob and PTT switch are locked out
ALL: All of the above are locked out
OFF: The Lock feature is disabled
15 PRG P1
Function: Programming the function assigned to Microphone’s [P1] key. See page ?? for
details.
Available Values: SQLOFF/S SRCH/TONE/T SRCH/T CALL/RPTR/DC IN/DIMR/WX
CH/INTKEY/SKIP
Default: SQLOFF
16 PRG P2
Function: Programming the function assigned to Microphone’s [P2] key. See page ?? for
details.
Available Values: SQLOFF/S SRCH/TONE/T SRCH/T CALL/RPTR/DC IN/DIMR/WX
CH/INTKEY/SKIP
Default: S SRCH
17 PRG P3
Function: Programming the function assigned to Microphone’s [P3] key. See page ?? for
details.
Available Values: SQLOFF/S SRCH/TONE/T SRCH/T CALL/RPTR/DC IN/DIMR/WX
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CH/INTKEY/SKIP
Default: T SRCH
18 PRG P4
Function: Programming the function assigned to Microphone’s [P4] key. See page ?? for
details.
Available Values: SQLOFF/S SRCH/TONE/T SRCH/T CALL/RPTR/DC IN/DIMR/WX
CH/INTKEY/SKIP
Default: WX CH
19 REV HM
Function: Select the Primary function of the [REV(DW)] key.
Available Values: REV/HOME
Default: REV
REV: Pressing the [REV(DW)] key reverses the transmit and receive frequencies
during repeater operation.
HOME: Pressing the [REV(DW)] key instantly recalls a favorite “Home” channel.
20 RF SQL
Function: Adjust the RF Squelch threshold level.
Available Values: 1 - 10, or OFF
Default: OFF
21 RPTR
Function: Sets the Repeater Shift direction.
Available Values: –RPTR/+RPTR/SIMP
Default: SIMP
22 RVRT
Function: Enables/disables the “Priority Channel Revert” feature.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
23 SCAN
Function: Select the Scan Resume mode.
Available Values: BUSY/HOLD/5 SEC
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Default: BUSY
BUSY: the scanner will remain halted for as long as there is carrier present on the
channel; after the carrier drops at the end of the other station’s transmission, the
scanner will resume.
HOLD: the scanner will halt on a signal it encounters. It will not restart
automatically; you must manually re-initiate scanning if you wish to resume.
5 SEC: the scanner will halt for five seconds only, after which scanning will resume
(whether or not the other station is still transmission).
24 SHIFT
Function: Set the magnitude of the Repeater Shift
Available Values: 00.00 - 99.95 (MHz) (only shifts of less than 4 MHz will work)
Default: 00.60 (MHz)
25 SKIP
Function: Select the Memory Scan mode.
Available Values: SKIP/ONLY/OFF
Default: OFF
SKIP: The Scanner will “skip” the flagged channels during scanning.
ONLY: The scanner will only scan channels that are flagged (Preferential Scan List).
OFF:
26 SQ DCS
Function: Setting of the DCS code
Available Values: 104 standard DCS codes.
Default: 023
27 SQ TNF
Function: Setting of the CTCSS Tone Frequency.
Available Values: 50 standard CTCSS tones.
Default: 67.0 (Hz)
28 SQ TYP
Function: Selects the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder mode.
Available Values: T ENC/TSQ/DC ENC/DCS/T+DCS/TSQ+DC/OFF
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Default: OFF
T ENC: CTCSS Encoder
TSQ: CTCSS Encoder/Decoder
DC ENC: DCS Encoder only
DCS: Digital Code Squelch Encoder/Decoder
T+DCS: Encodes a CTCSS tone and Decodes a DCS code
TSQ+DC: Encodes a DCS tone and Decodes a CTCSS tone
OFF
29 STEP
Function: Sets the Synthesizer steps.
Available Values: 5k/10k/12.5k/15k/20k/25k/50k/100k (Hz)
Default: 5 k (Hz)
30 SSCRH
Function: Selects the Smart Search Sweep mode.
Available Values: SINGLE/CONT
Default: SINGLE
SINGLE: In this mode, the transceiver will sweep the current band once in each
direction starting on the current frequency. All channels where activity is present
will be loaded into the Smart Search memories; whether or not all 31 memories are
filled, the search will stop after one sweep in each direction.
CONT: In this mode, the transceiver will make one pass in each direction as with
One-Shot searching; if all 31 channels are not filled after the first sweep, however,
the radio will continue sweeping until they are all filled.
31 TOT
Function: Sets the Time-Out Timer.
Available Values: 1 MIN - 60 MIN, or OFF
Default: 6 MIN
32 W ALT
Function: Enables/disables the Weather Alert feature.
Available Values: ON/OFF
Default: OFF
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33 W/N DV
Function: Reducing the MIC gain (and Deviation)
Available Values: WIDE/NARROW
Default: WIDE