Yaesu Musen 20241X50 HF Transceiver with Scanning Receiver User Manual FCC ID K6620241X50
Yaesu Musen Co., Ltd. HF Transceiver with Scanning Receiver FCC ID K6620241X50
Users Manual
FCC ID: K6620241X50
IC ID: 511B-20241X50
Operating Manual
Introduction
The FT-450 is a rugged, innovative multiband, multimode portable transceiver for the
amateur radio HF/VHF bands. Providing coverage of the 160-10 meter bands plus the 6 m,
the FT-450 includes operation on the SSB, CW, AM, FM, and Digital modes, yielding the
most comprehensive performance package available for field operation.
Designed for use from an external DC power source, the FT-450 provides 100 watts of power
output from a 13.8-Volt external power supply.
The multi-function Liquid-Crystal Display includes various backlighting, which may be
disabled for battery conservation. The display includes bar-graph indication of power output,
ALC voltage, SWR, and modulation level.
Among the advanced features of the FT-450 are many incorporated only in large base-station
transceivers. These include Dual VFOs; Split-Frequency operation; Digital Signal Processing
(Bandpass Filtering, Noise Reduction, Notch, and Microphone Equalizer); IF Shift; Clarifier
(“R.I.T.”); IF Noise Blanker; AGC Fast/Slow/Auto/Off selection; RF Gain and Squelch control;
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) and a receiver front-end Attenuator; VOX; Built-in
Electronic Keyer; Adjustable CW Pitch; Built-in CTCSS Encoder/Decoders; and Time-Out
Timer (TOT) functions; Computer Interface capability; and Cloning capability.
We urge you to read this manual in its entirety, so as to gain a full understanding of the
amazing capability of the exciting FT-450 Transceiver.
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Operating Manual
Specifications
General
Frequency Range: Receive: 30 kHz - 56 MHz
Transmit: 160 - 6 Meters
Emission Modes: A1 (CW), A3 (AM), A3J (LSB/USB), F3 (FM)
Synthesizer Steps (Min.): 10 Hz (CW/SSB), 100 Hz (AM/FM)
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ohms, Unbalanced (M)
Operating Temp. Range: -10 °C to +50 °C
Frequency Stability: ± 4 ppm from 1 min. to 60 min after power on.
@25 °C: 1 ppm/hour
Supply Voltage: Normal: 13.8 VDC ±10 %, Negative Ground
Current Consumption: Squelched: 1 A (Approx.)
Receive: 1.5 A
Transmit: 22 A
Case Size: 229 (W) x 84 (H) x 217 (D) mm
Weight (Approx.): 3.6 kg
Transmitter
RF Power Output: 100 W @13.8 V DC
Modulation Types: SSB: Balanced Modulator
AM: Early Stage (Low Level)
FM: Variable Reactance
FM Maximum Deviation: ±5 kHz (FM-N: ±2.5 kHz)
Spurious Radiation: -50 dB (1.8-29.7 MHz)
-70 dB (50 MHz)
Carrier Suppression: >40 dB
Opp. Sideband Suppression: >50 dB
SSB Frequency Response: 400 Hz-2600 Hz (-6 dB)
Microphone Impedance: 200-10k Ohms (Nominal: 600 Ohms)
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Operating Manual
Receiver
Circuit Type: Double-Conversion Superheterodyne
Intermediate Frequencies: 1st: 67.899 MHz
2
nd: 24 kHz
Sensitivity: SSB/CW AM FM
1.8 MHz-28 MHz 0.2 µV 2 µV -
28 MHz-30 MHz 0.2 µV 2 µV 0.5 µV
50 MHz-56 MHz 0.16 µV 1 µV 0.25 µV
(SSB/CW/AM = 10 dB S/N, FM = 12 dB SINAD)
Image Rejection: 70 dB
IF Rejection: 60 dB
Selectivity (-6/-60 dB): SSB/CW: 2.2 kHz/4.5 kHz
AM: 6 kHz/20 kHz
FM-N: 9 kHz/25 kHz
CW-N: 500 Hz/2.0 kHz
AF Output: 2.2 W (@4 Ohms, 10% THD or less)
AF Output Impedance: 4-16 Ohms
ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS
Supplied Accessories
MH-67A8J Microphone
Available Options
YH-77STA Stereo Headphone
MH-31A8J Microphone
MD-200A8X Microphone
MLS-100 External Speaker
SP-2000 External Speaker
FP-1030A DC Power Supply
MHG-1 Carrying Handle
ATU-450 Antenna Tuner
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Operating Manual
Installation
Power Connections
The FT-450 is designed use from an external DC power source.
External DC power source operation
The DC power connector for the FT-450 must only be connected to a DC source providing
13.8 Volts DC (±10%), and capable of at least 22 Amperes of current. Always observe proper
polarity when making DC connections:
The Red DC power lead connects to the Positive (+) DC terminal; and
The Black DC power lead connects to the Negative (–) DC terminal.
In mobile installations, noise pickup may be minimized by connecting the DC cable directly to
your vehicle’s battery, rather than to the ignition switch or “accessory” circuitry. Direct
connection to the battery also provides the best voltage stability.
Tips for Successful Mobile Installations:
Before connecting the DC cable to the battery, measure the voltage across the
battery terminals with the engine running fast enough to show a charge. If the
voltage is above 15 Volts, the vehicle’s voltage regulator should be adjusted to
reduce the charging voltage to 14 Volts or lower.
Route the DC cable as far away from the ignition cables as possible.
If the DC cable is not long enough, use #12 AWG (minimum) stranded, insulated
wire to extend it. Be certain to solder the connections at the splice securely, and
provide ample insulation for the soldered splice (heat shrink tubing plus black
electrical tape work well).
Check the battery terminal connections frequently to be sure they are tight and not
corroded.
Caution
Permanent damage can result if improper supply voltage, or reverse-polarity voltage, is
applied to the FT-450. The Limited Warranty on this transceiver does not cover damage
caused by application of AC voltage, reversed polarity DC, or DC voltage outside the
specified range of 13.8V ±10%. Never attempt to connect the FT-450 to a 24 Volt battery
system.
When replacing fuses, be certain to use a fuse of the proper rating. The FT-450 requires a
25A fast-blow fuse.
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Antenna Considerations
The antenna systems connected to your FT-450 transceiver are, of course, critically
important in ensuring successful communications. The FT-450 is designed for use with any
antenna system providing 50 resistive impedance at the desired operating frequency. While
minor excursions from the 50 specification are of no consequence, the power amplifier’s
protection circuitry will begin to reduce the power output of there is more than a 50%
divergence from the specified impedance (less than 33 or greater than 75, corresponding to a
Standing Wave Ratio (SWR) of 1.5:1).
Antenna Installations
When installing a “balanced” antenna such as a Yagi or dipole, remember that the FT-450 is
designed for use with an (unbalanced) coaxial feedline. Always use a balun or other
balancing device so as to ensure proper antenna system performance.
Use high-quality 50coaxial cable for the lead-in to your FT-450 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 a coaxial line with 0.5
dB of loss at 7 MHz may have 6 dB of loss at 432 MHz (thereby consuming 75% of your
transceiver’s power output!). As a general rule, smaller-diameter coaxial cables tend to have
higher losses than larger-diameter cables, although the precise differences depend on the
cable construction, materials, and the quality of the connectors used with the cable. See the
cable manufacturers’ specifications for details.
For reference, the chart below shows approximate loss figures for typically- available coaxial
cables frequently used in HF installations.
Always locate antennas such that they can never come in contact with outdoor power lines in
the event of a catastrophic support or power-pole structural failure. Ground your antennas’
support structure(s) adequately, so as to dissipate energy absorbed during a lightning strike.
Install appropriate lightning arrestors in the antenna coaxial cables (and rotator cables, if
rotary antennas are used).
In the event of an approaching electrical storm, disconnect all antenna lead-in, rotator cables,
and power cables completely from your station if the storm is not immediately in your
area. Do not allow disconnected cables to touch the case of your FT-450 transceiver or
accessories, as lightning can easily jump from the cable to the circuitry of your transceiver via
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the case, causing irreparable damage. If a lightning storm is in progress in your immediate
area, do not attempt to disconnect the cables, as you could be killed instantly if lightning
should strike your antenna structure or a nearby power line.
If a vertical antenna is utilized, be certain that humans and/or pets and farm animals are kept
away both from the radiating element (to prevent electrical shock and RF exposure danger)
and the ground system (in the event of an electrical storm). The buried radials of a
ground-mounted vertical antenna can carry lethal voltages outward from the center of the
antenna in the event of a direct lightning strike.
RF Field Exposure
This transceiver is capable of power output in excess of 50 Watts, so customers in the United
States may be required to demonstrate compliance with Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) regulations concerning maximum permissible exposure to radio
frequency energy. Compliance is based on the actual power output used, feedline loss,
antenna type and height, and other factors which can only be evaluated as a system.
Information regarding these regulations may be available from your Dealer, your local radio
club, from the FCC directly (press releases and other information can be found on the FCC’s
site on the World Wide Web at <http://www.fcc.gov>), or from the American Radio Relay
League, Inc. (225 Main St., Newington CT 06111 or <http://www.arrl.org>).
Although there is negligible radio frequency (RF) leakage from the FT-450 transceiver itself,
its antenna system should be located as far away from humans and animals as practicable,
so as to avoid the possibility of shock due to accidental contact with the antenna or excessive
long-term exposure to RF energy. During mobile operation, do not transmit if someone is
standing adjacent to your antenna, and use the lowest power possible.
Electromagnetic Compatibility
If this transceiver is used with, or in the vicinity of, a computer or computer-driven
accessories, you may need to experiment with grounding and/or Radio Frequency
Interference (RFI) suppression devices (such as ferrite cores) to minimize interference to
your communications caused by energy from the computer. Computer-generated RFI is
usually a result of inadequate shielding of the computer’s cabinet or I/O and peripheral
connections. While computer equipment may “comply” with RF emission standards, this
does not ensure that sensitive Amateur Radio receivers like the FT-450 will not experience
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interference from the device!
Be certain to use only shielded cables for TNC-to-Transceiver connections. You may need to
install AC line filters on the power cord(s) of the suspected equipment, and decoupling ferrite
toroidal chokes may be required on interconnecting patch/data cables. As a last resort, you
can try installing additional shielding within the computer’s case, using appropriate
conductive mesh or conductive shielding tape. Especially check “RF holes” where plastic is
used for cabinet front panels.
For further information, consult amateur radio reference guides and publications relating to
RFI suppression techniques.
Heat and Ventilation
To ensure long life of the components, be certain to provide adequate ventilation around the
cabinet of the FT-450. The cooling system of the transceiver must be free to draw cool air in
from the side of the transceiver and expel warm air from the rear of the transceiver.
Do not install the transceiver on top of another heat-generating device (such as a linear
amplifier), and do not place equipment, books, or papers on top of the transceiver. Place the
transceiver on a hard, flat, stable surface. Avoid heating vents and window locations that
could expose the transceiver to excessive direct sunlight, especially in hot climates.
CW Key/Keyer Connections
All commonly-available keyer paddles should work perfectly with the built-in Electronic Keyer.
The wiring configuration for the paddle is shown below.
For straight-key operation, only the tip and shaft connections are used.
Note: Even when using a straight key, you must use a three-conductor (“stereo”) plug. If a
two-conductor plug is used, the key line will be constantly shorted to ground.
When using an external electronic keyer, be absolutely certain that it is configured for
“positive” keying, not “negative” or “grid block” keying. The “key-up” voltage of the FT-450 is
+5V, and the “key-down” current is only about 1 mA.
For CW automated keying using a personal computer, with an external memory keyer
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providing for manual sending, it usually is possible to connect the keyed lines together via a
“Y” connector. Check with the documentation accompanying your keyer and your contest/DX
software for any cautions which need to be observed.
Receiver Accessories (Tape Recorder etc.)
Connection of a tape recorder or other such receiver accessory is easily accomplished by
using the DATA jack’s Data Out (1200 bps) terminal (Pin 5) and Ground (Pin 2). The audio
output is fixed at 100 mV, with an impedance of 600 .
Front Panel Control & Switches
(1) Liquid Crystal Display
The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) provides indication of the operating frequency and
other aspects of transceiver status.
Front Panel Control & Switches
1. POWER Switch
Press and hold in this switch for one second to turn the transceiver on. Press and hold in this
switch for one second, similarly, to turn the transceiver off.
2. METER/DIM Switch
This control switch determines the function of the meter during transmission.
ALC: Indicates the relative ALC voltage.
PO: Indicates the power output level.
SWR: Indicates the Standing Wave Ratio (Forward: Reflected).
Press [F] button and this button to lower the illumination intensity of the frequency display.
3. VOX/STO Switch
This button enables automatic voice-actuated transmitter switching in the SSB, AM, and FM
modes. While activated, appear [VOX] on the display.
4. TUNE Switch
This is the on/off switch for the FT-450’s Antenna Tuner.
Pressing this button momentarily places the antenna tuner in line between the transmitter
final amplifier and the antenna jack (“TUNER” icon will appear in the display). Reception is
not affected.
Pressing and holding in this button for 1/2 second, while receiving in an amateur band,
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activates the transmitter for a few seconds while the automatic antenna tuner rematches the
antenna system impedance for minimum SWR. The resulting setting is automatically stored
in one of the antenna tuner’s 100 memories, for instant automatic recall later when the
receiver is tuned near the same frequency.
Pressing this button momentarily, while the Tuner is engaged, will take the Automatic
Antenna tuner out of the transmit line.
5. PHONES Jack
A 1/8-inch 3-contact jack accepts either monaural or stereo headphones with 2- or 3-contact
plugs. When a plug is inserted, the loudspeaker is disabled.
Note: When wearing headphones, we recommend that you turn the AF Gain levels down to
their lowest settings before turning power on, to minimize the impact on your hearing caused
by audio “pops” during switch-on.
6. KEY Jack
This 1/8-inch, 3-contact jack accepts a CW key or keyer paddles (for the built-in electronic
keyer), or output from an external electronic keyer. Pinout is shown on page xx. Key up
voltage is 5 V, and key down current is 1 mA. This jack may be configured for keyer, “straight
key,” or computer keying interface operation via [KEYER] key.
Note: You cannot use a 2-contact plug in this jack (to do so produces a constant “key down”
condition).
7. Microphone Connector
This 8-pin jack accepts input from a microphone utilizing a traditional YAESU HF-transceiver
pin assignment.
8. KEYER Switch
This button toggles the internal CW keyer on and off. While activated, [KEYER] icon appears
in the display.
9. ATT/IPO Switch
This button selects the degree of attenuation and IPO (Intercept Point Optimization), if any, to
be applied to the receiver input.
Available selections are (ATT: ON)/(IPO: OFF), (ATT: OFF)/(IPO: ON), (ATT: ON)/(IPO: ON),
or (ATT: OFF)/(IPO: OFF), and [ATT] or [IPO] icon will change according to the attenuation
level selected.
10. AGC Switch
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This button selects the AGC characteristics for the receiver. Available selections are FAST,
MID, Slow, or Auto, and the “AGC” icon will change according to the AGC characteristics
selected.
11. NB Switch
This button turns the IF Noise Blanker on and off.
Press this button momentarily to reduce a short pulse noise, and “NB” icon appears in the
display.
12. SQL/RF GAIN Knobs
SQL Knob
The outer [SQL] knob sets the signal level threshold at which receiver audio is muted, in all
modes. It is very useful during local rag-chews, to eliminate noise between incoming
transmissions. This control is normally kept fully counter-clockwise (off), except when
scanning and during FM operation.
RF GAIN Knob
The outer [RF GAIN] knob is the receiver’s RF gain control, which adjusts the gain of the
receiver’s RF and IF amplifier stages. This control is normally left in the fully clockwise
position.
13. AF GAIN Knob
The inner [AF GAIN] knob sets the receiver’s audio volume level. Typically, you will operate
with this control set past the 9 o’clock to 10 o’clock position.
14. MODE Switches
Pressing [MODE UP] or [MODE DOWN] button will select the operating mode.
15. SPLIT Switch
Pressing this button to activates split frequency operation between the Main band (VFO-A),
used for transmission and Sub band (VFO-B), used for reception. If you press and hold in the
[SPLIT] button for two seconds, the “Quick Split” feature will be engaged, whereby the Sub
band VFO (VFO-B) will automatically be set to a frequency 5 kHz higher than the Main band
(VFO-A) frequency with same operating mode, and the transceiver will be placed in the Split
mode.
17. Main Tuning Dial Knob
This large knob adjusts the operating frequency of the Main band (VFO-A) or a recalled
memory. Clockwise rotation of this knob increases the frequency. Default tuning increments
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are 10 Hz (100 Hz in AM and FM modes); when the [FAST] button is pressed, the tuning
steps increase. The available steps are:
Operating Mode 1 Step* 1 Dial Rotation
LSB/USB/CW 10 Hz (100 Hz) 10 kHz (100 kHz)
AM/FM 100 Hz (1 kHz) 100 kHz (1 MHz)
* Numbers in parentheses indicate steps when the [FAST] button is On.
Advice: The tuning steps for the Main Tuning Dial knob are set, at the factory, to 10 Hz per
step. Via Menu item “DIALSTP,” however, you may change this setting from 10 Hz to 1 Hz
instead. When 1 Hz basic steps are selected, the action of the [FAST] button will be changed
to 1/10 of the values listed above.
18. FAST Switch
Pressing this button will increase or decrease the tuning rate of the Main Tuning Dial knob by
a factor of ten, as mentioned in the previous section.
When this function is activated, “FAST” icon appears in the display.
19. LOCK Switch
This button toggles locking of the Main Tuning Dial knob, to prevent accidental frequency
changes. When the button is active, the Main Tuning Dial knob can still be turned, but the
frequency will not change, and “LOCK” icon appears in the display.
20. A=B Switch
Press this button momentarily to transfer data from the Main band (VFO-A) frequency (or a
recalled memory channel) to the Sub band (VFO-B), overwriting any previous contents in the
Sub band (VFO-B). Use this key to set both Main band (VFO-A) and Sub band (VFO-B)
receivers to the same frequency and mode.
21. A/B Switch
Pressing this button momentarily exchanges the contents of the Main band (VFO-A) (or a
recalled memory channel) and the Sub band (VFO-B).
22. V/M Switch
This button toggles Main band (VFO-A) receiver operation between the memory system and
the VFO. Either “MR” or “MT” will be displayed to the under the main frequency display field
to indicate the current selection. If you have tuned off of a Memory channel frequency (MT),
pressing this button returns the display to the original memory contents (MR), and pressing it
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once more returns operation to the Main VFO (no icon).
23. BAND Keys
These keys allow one-touch selection of the desired Amateur band (1.8 ~ 50 MHz).
What’s more, these keys may be used for direct entry of a desired operating frequency during
VFO operation.
24. CLAR Switch
Pressing this button activates the RX Clarifier, to allow offsetting the Main (VFO-A) receiving
frequency temporarily. Press this button once more to return the Main receiver to the
frequency shown on the main frequency display field; the Clarifier offset will still be present,
though, in case you want to use it again. To cancel the Clarifier offset, press the [CLEAR]
button.
24. SHIFT Knobs (except on FM and AM mode)
The inner [SHIFT] knob provides adjustment of the IF DSP passband, using 10 Hz steps for
precise adjustment and easy reduction of interference on either side of your operating
frequency. The total adjustment range is ±1 kHz. The normal operating setting for this knob is
straight up, in the 12 o’clock position.
Display Indications
1. Receiver Configuration Indicator
ATT and IPO (ATT: ON)/(IPO: OFF), (ATT: OFF)/(IPO: ON), (ATT: ON)/(IPO: ON), or (ATT:
OFF)/(IPO: OFF)
Indicates the attenuation and IPO status selected for operation by the front panel
[AGC/IPO] button.
AGC (AUTO, FAST, SLOW):
Indicates the AGC decay time selected for operation by the front panel [AGC/IPO]
switch.
NB
This indicator appears when the receiver’s (short duration) Noise Blanker is activated.
Further more, this indicator will blinks for three second then appears continuously when the
receiver’s the (longer duration) Noise Blanker is activated.
DNR
This indicator appears whenever the Digital Noise Reduction is activated.
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NOTCH
Appears the graphically depict the peak position of the IF Notch Filter when the IF Notch
Filter is activated.
6. WIDTH
Indicates the bandwidth of the DSP IF filter.
SHIFT
Indicates the peak position of the DSP IF filter.
KEYER
This indicator appears whenever the internal CW keyer is activated.
TX
This indicator appears during transmission on the (VFO-A) frequency.
Frequency Display
This is the frequency display.
LOCK
This indicator appears when the Main Tuning Dial knob is locked.
FAST
This indicator appears when the Main Tuning Dial knob’s tuning rate is selected to fast.
Rear Panel
25. ANT Jacks
Connect your antenna here, using a type-M (PL-259) plug and coaxial feedline for each.
These antenna ports are always used for transmission, and also are used for reception
unless a separate receive antenna is also used for the receiver. The internal antenna tuner
affects only the antenna(s) connected here, and only during transmission. These connectors
utilize Teflon® insulation for extreme durability and to ensure stable impedance over the
entire frequency range.
26. GND
Use this terminal to connect the transceiver to a good earth ground, for safety and optimum
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performance. Use a large diameter, short braided cable for making ground connections, and
please refer to page xx for other notes about proper grounding.
27. DATA Jack
This 8-pin output jack provides band selection data, which may be used for control such as
the TNC.
28. TUNER Jack
This 8-pin output jack provides band selection data, which may be used for control such as
the Antenna Tuner.
29. LINER Jack
This 8-pin output jack provides band selection data, which may be used for control such as
the Linear Amplifier.
30. EXT SPKR
This gold-plated two-contact output jacks provides receiving audio from the receivers for an
external loudspeaker or speakers, such as the SP-2000. Inserting a plug into one of these
jacks disables the corresponding internal loudspeaker. Impedance is 4 - 16 Ohms.
31. CAT Jack
This 9-pin serial DB-9 jack allows external computer control of the FT-450. Connect a serial
cable here and to the RS-232C COM port on your personal computer (no external interface is
required).
32. DC IN Jack
This 4-pin connector requires a 13.8-volt supply capable of 22 amperes continuous duty.
Usually, connect the DC OUT plug to this jack. For DC operation, use the xx DC Cable with
25 A fuse.
Operation
RF Says: Hi! I’m R.F. Radio, and I’m here to guide you through the fine points of the setup
and use of your new FT-450. I know your anxious to get on the air, but I encourage you to
read the “Operation” section of this manual as thoroughly as possible, so you’ll get the most
out of this fantastic new rig. Now. . .let’s get operating!
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Turning the Transceiver On and Off
1. To turn the transceiver on, press and hold in the PWR switch for one second.
2. To turn the transceiver off, again press and hold in the PWR switch for one second.
Operating Band Selection
This transceiver covers an incredibly wide frequency range, over which a number of different
operating modes are used. Therefore, this transceiver’s frequency coverage has been
divided into different operating bands, each of with has its own pre-set channel steps and
operating modes. You can change the channel steps and operating mode once you get
started, of course, per the next section.
To change the frequency band, press either the BAND(DWN) or BAND(UP) key to move to
the next lower or higher operating band, respectively.
… 1.8 MHz 3.5 MHz 7.0 MHz 10 MHz 14 MHz 15 MHz 18 MHz 24 MHz
28 MHz 50 MHz1.8 MHz …
R.F. Says: VFOa and VFOb are independent VFOs, so they may be set to different bands.
See the “Stacked VFO System” discussion on page <<??> for details.
Mode Selection
Press the MODE key to move among the eight settings for the operating modes, respectively.
… LSB ... USB ... CW ... AM ... FM ... DATA ... LSB …
R.F. Says: You can also set VFOa and VFOb to different modes in the same band, allowing
you to have a “Phone” VFO and a “CW” VFO, for example.
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level
Rotate the AF GAIN knob to set a comfortable listening level.
R. F. Says: Start with the AF knob set fully counter-clockwise, especially when using FM (the
background noise on FM can be surprisingly loud)!
Adjusting the RF Gain and Squelch
The SQL/RF Gain control is configured differently, depending on the country to which the
FT-450 has been exported. In the U.S. version, the default function of this control is “RF
Gain.” The configuration of the SQL/RF Gain control is set via Menu Mode No-*** [SQL RF
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GAIN]; see page <<??>> for details.
If your transceiver is configured for “RF Gain” use, rotating this control fully clockwise in the
SSB/CW/Digital modes will provide best sensitivity. To reduce the receiver’s RF Gain
somewhat, rotate this control counter-clockwise slightly. You will observe an increasing
number of bars on the S-meter as you rotate the RF Gain control counter-clockwise; this
indicates increasing AGC voltage, which is causing the front-end gain to be reduced. In the
FM and Packet modes, this control will automatically be set to “Squelch,” even though the
setting of Menu No-*** is set to “RF Gain.”
If this control is configured for “SQL” operation, the FT-450’s RF Gain will be set for maximum
sensitivity in all modes, and the SQL/RF Gain control will function solely as a Squelch control.
In this case, rotate the SQL/RF Gain control to the point where the background noise is just
silenced; this will provide the best sensitivity to weak signals, while keeping the receiver quiet
when no signal is received.
Setting the Operating Frequency
1. In the “SSB/CW/DATA” modes, rotate the DIAL knob to set the frequency. Clockwise
rotation of the DIAL increases the operating frequency.
2. In the “AM/FM” modes, rotate the DSP/SEL knob to set the frequency. Clockwise
rotation of the DSP/SEL increases the operating frequency.
3. You may also use the DSP/SEL knob to adjust the operating frequency in the
“SSB/CW/DATA” modes. The DSP/SEL knob provides faster tuning, ideal for making
quick changes in frequency when you want to move across the band in a hurry. You can
then use the DIAL to make fine frequency adjustments.
4. If you press the DSP/SEL knob momentarily, then rotate the DSP/SEL knob, you can
now change the operating frequency in 1 MHz steps, allowing very quick frequency
excursions. This can be particularly helpful on the VHF and UHF bands.
5. In step 2 above, it was mentioned that tuning in the “AM/FM” modes is accomplished
using the DSP/SEL knob. By default, the DIAL is disabled in these modes; if you wish to
enable the DIAL in these modes, use Menu Mode [A&F DIAL]; see page <<??>>.
Receiver Accessories
Locking Front Panel Controls
The front panel LOCK button allows you to disable the DIAL and/or the front panel controls.
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In the transceiver’s default configuration, pressing the LOCK button disables just the DIAL,
while the other keys and switches are unaffected.
To lock out the remainder of the controls and the DSP/SEL knob, use Menu Mode [LOCK
MODE];
1. Press and hold in the [F] key for one second to enter the Menu mode.
2. Rotate the DSP/SEL knob so as to recall [LOCK MODE].
3. Rotate the DIAL to select the desired.
FREQ.: Locks front panel keys and knobs related to frequency control (such as BAND
(UP) and BAND (DWN) key, etc.)
PANEL: Locks all front panel keys and knobs (except POWER and LOCK keys)
ALL: Locks all front panel keys and knobs (except POWER and LOCK keys) and
microphone keys.
4. When you have made your selection, Press and hold in the [F] key for one second to
save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
When the controls are locked out, press the LOCK button once more to release them to
normal operation.
Clarifier (Receiver Incremental Tuning)
The Clarifier (RIT) allows you to set an offset of up to ±9.99 kHz of the receive frequency
relative to your transmit frequency. To achieve a wider offset than this, you may use the “Split”
operating mode, described later.
1. Press the CLAR button momentarily to activate the Clarifier function.
2. Turn the DSP/SEL knob, which allows the receiver frequency to be varied over a range
of 9.99 kHz.
3. When the receiving frequency is higher or lower than transmit frequency, shift
frequencies will appear at the right side of the frequency display.
4. To turn the Clarifier off, again press the CLAR button momentarily. When you turn the
Clarifier back on, the offset previously stored will still be applied.
5. To reset the Clarifier offset to zero, turn the Clarifier off, then turn the DIAL by any
amount. The Clarifier will reset to zero after the first “step” of the DIAL.
IF SHIFT
The receiver’s IF SHIFT feature is an effective interference-reduction tool, which allows you
to shift the passband response higher or lower without changing the pitch of the incoming
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FCC ID: K6620241X50
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Operating Manual
signal.
Rotate the SHIFT knob, as needed, to reduce or eliminate the interference.
AGC (Automatic Gain Control)
The receiver recovery time constant of the AGC system may be modified to match your
operating needs.
Press the [AGC] key toggle the AGC recovery time constant among the following selections:
AGCauto AGCfast AGCslow AGCauto …
where “AUTO” represents “FAST” on CW and DATA(AFSK), and “SLOW” on the voice
modes.
Noise Blanker
The IF Noise Blanker may be useful in reducing or eliminating some types of impulse noise,
especially noise generated by automotive ignition systems.
1. Press the [NB] key to activate the Noise Blanker. The “parenthesis” will appear at the
both side of the “NB” indication.
2. Press the [NB] key again to turn the Noise Blanker off.
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization)
The IPO feature bypasses the receiver RF preamplifier, thereby eliminating the preamp’s
gain.
This button selects the degree of attenuation and IPO (Intercept Point Optimization), if any, to
be applied to the receiver input.
Available selections are (ATT: ON)/(IPO: OFF), (ATT: OFF)/(IPO: ON), (ATT: ON)/(IPO: ON),
or (ATT: OFF)/(IPO: OFF), and [ATT] or [IPO] icon will change according to the attenuation
level selected.
DSP Noise Reduction (NR)
The NOISE REDUCTION feature of the DSP system may be used to enhance signal-to-noise
ratio on weak signals.
1. Press the [DSP] key, which selects DNR meter on the display, then the “parenthesis” will
appear at the both side of the “DNR” indication.
2. Press the [DSP/SEL] key to activate the DSP NOISE REDUCTION feature. Rotate the
DIAL to find the point where best signal-to-noise ratio is obtained under the current
noise conditions.
3. Press the [DSP] key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
4. To turn off the DSP NOISE REDUCTION feature, press the [DSP/SEL] key again.
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FCC ID: K6620241X50
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Operating Manual
DSP Notch Filter
The DSP system’s Notch Filter may be helpful in removing one or more offending carrier or
heterodyne signals from the audio passband.
1. Press the [DSP] key, which selects NOTCH meter on the display, then the “parenthesis”
will appear at the both side of the “NOTCH” indication.
2. Press the [DSP/SEL] key to activate the notch filter feature. Rotate the DIAL to find the
point where best signal-to-noise ratio is obtained under the current noise conditions.
3. Press the [DSP] key to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
4. To turn off the notch filter feature, press the [DSP/SEL] key again.
Transmitter Operation
SSB/AM Transmission
Basic Setup/Operation
1. Press the MODE key so as to select either SSB (LSB/USB) or AM mode. In the SSB
mode, if you are operating on the 7 MHz or lower bands, select the LSB mode. If you are
operating on the 14 MHz or higher bands, select the USB mode.
2. Press the [METER/DIM] key momentarily, to select the “ALC” meter function (“ALC” will
appear on the display).
3. Press the microphone’s PTT switch, and speak into the microphone in a normal voice
while watching the meter. The ideal audio input level to the transmitter from the
microphone will cause a few “segments” of indication on the ALC meter. Release the
PTT switch to return to receive mode.
4. If the ALC meter is too high, or too low, you may need to reset the Microphone Gain:
1 Press and hold in the [F] key for one second to enter the Menu mode.
2 Rotate the DSP/SEL knob to recall Menu Mode [MIC GAIN].
3 Close the PTT switch, and while speaking into the microphone rotate the DIAL until
the proper ALC indication is achieved on voice peaks.
4 When done, press and hold in the [F] key foe one second to save the new setting for
the Microphone Gain.
CW Transmission
Operation using Straight Key/External Keying Device
When using a straight key, an external electronic keyer, or a computer-generated keying
device, please follow the instructions in this section.
1. Insert your key’s (three-conductor) plug into the rear-panel KEY jack.
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2. Press the MODE (UP)/MODE (DOWN) key, as needed, to select one of the CW modes.
R. F. Says: The “CW” mode utilizes USB-side carrier injection, while the CWR
(Reverse) mode utilizes LSB-side injection.
3. Press and hold the [KEYER] key for one second, then appears [CWSPEED] on the
display.
4. The CW hang time can be adjusted using the Menu Mode. To adjust the CW hang time:
1) Rotate the [DSP/SEL] knob until appears [CW DLY] on the display, then press the
[DSP/SEL] knob, then select the delay time.
2) When done, press the [DSP/SEL] knob, then press and hold in the [F] key for one
second to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
5. You can adjust the CW sidetone volume level using the Menu Mode. To adjust the CW
sidetone volume level:
1) Rotate the [DSP/SEL] knob until appears [CWSTONE] on the display, then press
the [DSP/SEL] knob, then select the delay time.
2) When done, press the [DSP/SEL] knob, then press and hold in the [F] key for one
second to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
6. You also can adjust the CW sidetone pitch using the Menu Mode. To adjust the CW
sidetone volume level:
1) Rotate the [DSP/SEL] knob until appears [CWPITCH] on the display, then press
the [DSP/SEL] knob, then select the delay time.
2) When done, press the [DSP/SEL] knob, then press and hold in the [F] key for one
second to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
R. F. Says: Because the CW Pitch corresponds to the actual pitch of your transmitted
signal, the sidetone may be used in a “CW Spot” capacity. Just tune the pitch of the
received signal to the same pitch as that of your transceiver’s sidetone, and you will be
perfectly “zero beat” with the other station.
FM Transmission
Basic Setup/Operation
1. Press the MODE (UP)/MODE (DOWN) key so as to select the FM mode.
2. Press the microphone’s PTT switch, and speak into the microphone in a normal voice.
3. Release the PTT switch to return to the receive mode.
Scanning Operation
This transceiver contains a wide variety of scanning capabilities. Whether you are in the VFO
mode or one of the memory modes, scanning operation is fundamentally identical in all
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Operating Manual
configurations, but with the following differences:
In the VFO mode, scanning causes the transceiver to sweep up or down the band,
pausing or halting on any signal encountered;
In the Memory mode, the scanner will scan the programmed memories, and can be
instructed to skip certain memories during scanning;
In the Programmable Memory Scan (PMS) mode, the scanner will scan the band within
user-programmed frequency limits.
Scanning Operation
1. Set the SQL knob to the point where background noise is silenced. A typical setting, for
effective scanning operation, will be at 12 o’clock or slightly clockwise from this position.
2. Set the transceiver into the operating configuration in which you wish to scan (VFO or
Memory; PMS will be described later).
3. Press the [PMS/SCAN] key momentarily to start upward scan (toward higher
frequencies or higher memory channel numbers).
4. Rotate the DIAL knob or MEM/VFO CH knob counterclockwise to toggle the scanning
direction downward.
5. The scanner will now cause the transceiver to increment in the chosen direction until a
signal is detected. When a signal is encountered which opens the Squelch, In the
FM/AM modes, the scanner will pause until the signal disappears (at the end of the other
station’s transmission), at which point scanning will resume. While the transceiver is in
the “Pause” condition, the decimal points in the frequency display area will blink. See
“Scan-Resume Choices” on page <<??>> for details of how to customize the resumption
of scanning. In the SSB/CW modes, the scanner will slow down (but doesn’t stop).
6. Press the PTT switch on the microphone to cancel scanning.
Scan-Resume Choices
Scanning operation requires that you have the FT-450’s audio squelched. The transceiver
then “assumes” that the opening of the squelch corresponds to the discovery of a signal you
may wish to listen to.
Once the scan has been halted, one of three things may happen:
TIME (default action): In this mode, the transceiver pauses on the signal and stays locked on
its frequency for five seconds. Thereafter, scanning will resume whether or not the other
station’s transmission has ended. The pause time is adjustable from 0 to 10 seconds via
Menu Mode [RESUME].
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FCC ID: K6620241X50
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Operating Manual
BUSY: In this mode, the scanner will halt until the other station’s transmission ceases (at
which point the squelch will close). One second after the squelch closes, scanning resumes
automatically.
To choice the Scan-Resume mode;
1. Press and hold in the [F] button for one second to activate the Menu mode.
2. Rotate the DSP/SEL knob to select Menu Mode [SCAN MODE].
3. Press and rotate the DSP/SEL knob to select the Scan-Resume mode
4. Press and hold in the [F] button for one second to exit the Menu mode.
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FCC ID: K6620241X50
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Operating Manual
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which
can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
-- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
-- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
-- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
-- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device
must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Part 15.21: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by Vertex
Standard could void the user’s authorization to operate this device.
DECLARATION BY MANUFACTURER
The scanner receiver is not a digital scanner and is incapable of being converted or
modified to a digital scanner receiver by any user.
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