Yaesu Musen 20415X20 AMATEUR RADIO WITH SCANNING RECEIVER User Manual pmd

Yaesu Musen Co., Ltd. AMATEUR RADIO WITH SCANNING RECEIVER pmd

Users Manual

144/430 MHz DUAL BAND FM TRANSCEIVERWITH GPSOPERATING MANUALVERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.4-8-8 Nakameguro, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo 153-8644, JapanVERTEX STANDARDUS Headquarters10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.YAESU UK LTD.Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall CloseWinchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.VERTEX STANDARD HK LTD.Unit 5, 20/F., Seaview Centre, 139-141 Hoi Bun Road,Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong KongVERTEX STANDARD (AUSTRALIA) PTY., LTD.Normanby Business Park, Unit 14/45 Normanby RoadNotting Hill 3168, Victoria, AustraliaVX-8GRFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 1The Ultra Compact VX-8GR (2.4”W x 3.7”H x 1.1”D) is equipped with a GPS receiver andthinner than the previous advanced model - It is packed with advanced technology and fea-tures, designed for outdoor operation. It is submersible (IPX5) and shockproof! The compactcase combines a rugged die-cast chassis with the clean, tough polycarbonate resin front panel.Its shockproof versatility will allow you to operate the radio in the toughest environments.The large High-resolution Dot Matrix LCD display provides clear, easy-to-read indication ofboth “A” (Main band) and “B” (Sub band) frequencies, the operating mode, and S-meters forboth bands. When you engage the Spectrum Scope function, the high-resolution display willindicate relative signal strengths of up to ±50 adjacent channels!The built-in worldwide standard AX.25 Data TNC Modem permits uncomplicated APRS®operation. (Automatic Packet/Position Reporting System: APRS® is a registered trademark ofthe APRS Software and Bob Bruninga, WB4APR.) The VX-8GR supports APRS® 1200/9600bps data communication on the “B” (Sub band) band only. You may communicate your loca-tion to other APRS® stations along with the position, speed and heading displayed on yourradio! You and others will be able to see your APRS® movement on the web! The VX-8GRdisplays the received station’s positions, heading directions, messages, distances, icons (43kinds), weather information, object, etc. With the list function you may automatically store andrecall up to 20 messages and the APRS® data from up to 40 stations. The built-in GPS ReceiverUnit can provide you with your real time APRS® data.An Enhanced Paging and Code Squelch (EPCS) allows you to page a particular station andonly receive calls from that station. A security Password may be set, which will allow you toturn on and operate the transceiver only after you enter the Password. A convenient key pro-vides access to Vertex Standard’s WIRES™ (Wide-Coverage Internet Repeater EnhancementSystem). The Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) function can automatically cause your VX-8GRto transmit your callsign and engage your rig’s microphone, even if you are disabled and un-able to press the PTT switch. Additional features include: transmit Time-Out Timer (TOT),Automatic Power-Off (APO), and Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS). Yaesu’s exclusive ARTS™(Auto-Range Transponder System) which “beeps” the user when you move out of communica-tions range with another ARTS™ equipped station. There is provision to reduce the TX devia-tion for use in areas of high channel congestion. The squelch circuit allows adjusting the squelchto open at a programmable setting of the S-Meter, thus reducing guesswork in setting thesquelch threshold. Provides a DATA jack which enable to displaying the location data (Lat/Lon) of the after-market GPS receiver, outputs the location data (Lat/Lon) of the built-in GPSreceiver unit and the Waypoint data of the received APRS beacon.We appreciate your purchase of the VX-8GR, and encourage you to read this manual thor-oughly, and learn about the many exciting features of your thrilling new Yaesu hand-heldtransceiver!INTRODUCTIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL2CONTROLS & CONNECTIONSANTENNA JackConnect the sup-plied rubber flex an-tenna (or anotherantenna presentinga 50-Ohm imped-ance) here.VOL KeyRotate the DIALknob while pressingand holding this keyto adjust the audiovolume level.DIAL KnobThe main tuning Dialis used to set the op-erating frequency,and is also used foraudio volume level,menu selections,and other adjust-ments.MIC/SP JackThis four conductorminiature jack con-nects an optionalMH-34B4B SpeakerMicrophone, MH-37A4B Ear piece/Mi-crophone, or VC-25VOX Headset.EXT DC JackThis coaxial DC jackallows connection toan external DCpower source (4-14V DC). The centerpin of this jack is thePositive (+) line.MICThe internal micro-phone is locatedhear.LED LightThis white LED willglow (or flash) during“Emergency Chan-nel” operation. It canalso be useful as aflash light in a darkenvironment via theSet Mode Item 45LED LIGHT.PTT Switch(“Push To Talk”)Press this switch in-ward to transmit, andrelease it (to receive)after your transmis-sion is completed.MONI KeyPressing this keydisables the noisesquelching action,allowing you to hearvery weak signalsnear the backgroundnoise level.p(PWR) SwitchPress and hold thisswitch for 2 secondsto toggle thetransceiver’s power“on” and “off”.Press this switchbriefly while thetransceiver is turned“on” to toggle the keylockout feature “on”or “off”.DATA JackThis two conductor2.5-mm jack pro-vides connectionpoints for an Exter-nal computer.KEYPADThe 18 front panelkey buttons selectmany of the most im-portant operatingfeatures.The functions of thekeys are describedin details on pages 4and 5.F/W KeyPressing this keyactivates the “Alter-nate” key function ofthe keypad.SPEAKERThe internal speakeris located hear.GPS RECEIVERThe internal GPS re-ceiver is locatedhear.TX/BUSY LampsThess indicatorsglow green when asignal is being re-ceived and red whentransmitting.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 3DISPLAY ICONS & INDICATORSFREQUENCY CONTROLVFO: VFO ModeMR: Memory ModeMT: Memory Tune ModeHOM: Home Channel MemoryPMS: Programmable Memory Scan ModeVDW: Dual Watch Active (VFO-Memory Channel)MDW:Dual Watch Active(Memory Channel-Memory Channel)SMS: Smart Search ActiveNote: When these icon is blinked, the Sub Band Operation feature is active.SQUELCH TYPE & RADIO MODETN: Tone Encoder ActiveTSQ: Tone Squelch ActiveDCS: Digital Code Squelch ActiveRTN: Reverse Tone Squelch ActivePR: User Programmed Reverse CTCSS Decoder ActivePAG: Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch (EPCS) ActiveMSG: Message Feature ActiveDC: Split Tone Feature Active (DCS Encode only)T-D: Split Tone Feature Active (Encodes a CTCSS Tone and Decodes a DCS Code)D-T: Split Tone Feature Active (Encodes a DCS Code and Decodes a CTCSS Tone)A12: APRS® Feature Active (1200 bps)A96: APRS® Feature Active (9600 bps)MISCELLANEOUS SETTING: Repeater Shift Direction (Minus Shift): Repeater Shift Direction (Plus Shift): Independent Transmit Frequencies(Odd Splits): Attenuator Active: Bell Alarm ActiveOPERATING MODENFM: FMAM: AMNote 1): When the under bar is appended to these icons, the Vibrator function is active.         2): When the dashed under bar is appended to these icons, the CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Vibrator operationis active.VOLUME LEVELTX POWER LEVELHI: High Power (5 W)L3: LOW3 Power (2.5 W)L2: LOW2 Power (1 W)L1: LOW1 Power (0.02 W)OPERATING FREQUENCYS&PO METERICON: Secondary Keypad Active: Internet Connection Feature (WiRESTM) Active: DTMF Autodialer Active: Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) Feature Active: Automatic Power-Off Active: Key Lock Active: Mute Feature Active: Battery Saver Active: Battery Indicator“B” BandDisplayIcon “A” BandDisplayFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL4KEYPAD FUNCTIONSFrequency entry digit “1”Switches the “Upper”frequency to be the“Operating” (TX) Band.Activates theDual Receive Feature.Switches the “Lower”frequency to be the“Operating” (TX) Band.Activates theDual Receive Feature.PRIMARY FUNCTION(PRESS KEY)(1) Moves operation to thenext-highest frequency band.(2) Activates the Memory Bankfeature.Moves operation to thenext-lowest frequency bandTHIRD FUNCTION(PRESS AND HOLD KEY)(1) Select the Bandwidth forthe VFO scanner.(2) Select the Memory Scanmode.Selects the synthesizer stepsto be used during VFOoperation.Frequency entry digit “2”SECONDARY FUNCTION(PRESS +  )PRIMARY FUNCTION(PRESS KEY)THIRD FUNCTION(PRESS AND HOLD KEY)Selects the CTCSS Tone,DCS code, EPCS code, orMessage.SECONDARY FUNCTION(PRESS +  )PRIMARY FUNCTION(PRESS KEY)THIRD FUNCTION(PRESS AND HOLD KEY)SECONDARY FUNCTION(PRESS +  )PRIMARY FUNCTION(PRESS KEY)THIRD FUNCTION(PRESS AND HOLD KEY)Frequency entry digit “4”Activates the ARTS feature.Reverses transmit andreceive frequencies whileworking through a repeater.Switches operation to the“Home” (favorite frequency)channel.Activates the EMERGENCYfunction.Frequency entry digit “5”Activates the Memory Scan“Skip” channel selectionmode.Activates the InternetConnection feature.Selects the desired transmitpower output level.No Action.Frequency entry digit “7”Activates the Audio MuteFeature.Frequency entry digit “8”Activates the SpectrumAnalyzer (Spectra-ScopeTM)feature.No Action No ActionNo Action No ActionNo Action No ActionNo Action No ActionNOTEPress the a or bkey to switch the fre-quency display betweenthe “Double-size Charac-ter” and “Small Character”mode while Mono bandoperation.SECONDARY FUNCTION(PRESS +  )FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 5KEYPAD FUNCTIONSEnter the Set Mode.Activate the APRS(Automatic PositionReporting System) function.No ActionFrequency entry digit “3”Selects the DTMF mode. SECONDARY FUNCTION(PRESS +  )PRIMARY FUNCTION(PRESS KEY)THIRD FUNCTION(PRESS AND HOLD KEY)SECONDARY FUNCTION(PRESS +  )PRIMARY FUNCTION(PRESS KEY)THIRD FUNCTION(PRESS AND HOLD KEY)Selects the receive modebetween AM and FM.Engage the SpecialSearch mode.Activates the CTCSSor DCS operation.SECONDARY FUNCTION(PRESS +  )PRIMARY FUNCTION(PRESS KEY)THIRD FUNCTION(PRESS AND HOLD KEY)SECONDARY FUNCTION(PRESS +  )PRIMARY FUNCTION(PRESS KEY)THIRD FUNCTION(PRESS AND HOLD KEY)Frequency entry digit “6”Selects the direction of theuplink frequency shift (either“–”, “+”, or “simplex”) duringrepeater operation.Switches frequency controlbetween the VFO andMemory System.Activates the “Memory Tune”mode while in the MemoryRecall mode.Activates the Priority (DualWatch) function.Frequency entry digit “9”Enters the “Special Memory”mode.Frequency entry digit “0”Activates the Sub BandOperation feature.USA Version: Disables the Noiseand Tone Squelch System.EXP Version: Activates the T.CALL(1750 Hz) for repeater access.Adjusts the Squelchthreshold level.No ActionActivates the “Secondary”key function.Disables the “Secondary”key function.Toggle the DIAL knobfunction between the“Frequency Control” and“Receiver Audio Control”.Rotate the DIAL knob whileholding this key to adjust theaudio volume level.No ActionNo ActionNo Action No Action Activates the “Memory Write”mode (for memory channelstorage).USA Version: Disables the Noiseand Tone Squelch System.EXP Version: Activates the T.CALL(1750 Hz) for repeater access.Toggle the transceiver’spower “on” and “off”.Toggle the key lock feature“on” and “off” while thetransceiver is turned “on”.No ActionActivates the transmitter.Activates the transmitter withthe “high” power temporarilywhile the transceiver is “low”power operation.Activates the Transmitter.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL6ACCESSORIES SUPPLIED WITH THE VX-8DRAntenna 1 pc YHA-72 (Q3000236)Li-Ion Battery Pack 1 pc FNB-101LI (7.4V/1,100mAh: AAG10X001)Battery Charger 1 pc NC-86B (for USA version: Q9500149) orNC-86C (for EXP version: Q9500150)Belt Clip 1 pc (RA1053600)Screws 2 pcs (M3x10SUS: U24310020)Plastic Cap 1 pc (RA1054200)Sheet 1 pcs (RA1231300)Operating Manual 1 pcWarranty Card 1 pcACCESSORIES & OPTIONSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 7AVAILABLE OPTIONS FOR YOUR VX-8DRCSC-101LI Soft CaseFBA-39 3 x “AA” Cell Battery Case (batteries not supplied)FNB-101LI Li-Ion Battery Pack (7.4V/1,100 mAh)FNB-102LI Li-Ion Battery Pack (7.4V/1,800 mAh)CD-41 Rapid Charger (requires NC-86B/C/U)NC-86B/C/UBattery Charger for the CD-41E-DC-5B DC Cable w/Noise FilterE-DC-6 DC Cable; plug and wire onlyCN-3 BNC-to-SMA AdapterMH-34B4B Speaker/MicrophoneMH-37A4B Ear peace MicrophoneCT-44 Microphone AdapterCT-144 Clone CableCT-143 PC Connection Cable: “B” suffix is for use with 120 VAC (Type-A plug), “C” suffix is for use with 230 VAC(Type-C plug), and “U” suffix is for use with 230 VAC (Type-BF plug).Availability of accessories may vary. Some accessories are supplied as standard per localrequirements, while others may be unavailable in some regions. Consult your Yaesu Dealerfor details regarding these and any newly-available options. Connection of any non-Yaesuapproved accessory, should it cause damage, may void the Limited Warranty on this ap-paratus.ACCESSORIES & OPTIONSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL8Figure 1Figure 2ANTENNA INSTALLATIONThe supplied antenna provides good results over the entire frequency range of the trans-ceiver. However, for enhanced base station medium-wave and shortwave reception, youmay wish to connect an external (outside) antenna.TO INSTALL THE SUPPLIED ANTENNAHold the bottom end of the antenna, then screw it onto the mating connec-tor on the transceiver until it is snug. Do not over-tighten by use of ex-treme force.Notes:Never transmit without having an antenna connected.Carefully turn the supplied antenna onto the SMA jack. Never twistthe upper part of the antenna while screwing it onto the mating con-nector of the transceiver.If using an external antenna for transmission, ensure that the SWRpresented to the transceiver is 1.5:1 or lower.INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIESBELT CLIP INSTALLATIONInstall the supplied Belt Clip to the FNB-101LIBattery Pack using the supplied two screws(Figure 1). Use only the screws included withthe Belt Clip to mount the Belt Clip to the backof the Battery Pack!If you do not need the Belt Clip, install the sup-plied Plastic Cap to the Battery Pack (Figure2). If you install the belt clip later, push the Plas-tic Cap out with a small tool or screwdriver.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 9INSTALLATION OF FNB-101LI BATTERY PACKThe FNB-101LI is a high-performance Lithium-Ion battery providing high capacity in avery compact package. Under normal use, the FNB-101LI may be used for approxi-mately 300 charge cycles, after which operating time may be expected to decrease. An oldbattery pack, which is displaying diminished capacity should be replaced with a new one.To install the FNB-101LI Battery Pack, carefully mate thebattery’s three alignment tabs with their corresponding align-ment slots on the transceiver bottom case, then gently pressthe top side of the Battery Pack until it locks in place with a“click”.To remove the Battery Pack, turn the transceiver off andremove any protective cases. Press the Battery Pack ReleaseKnobs downward to unlock the latch, then remove the Bat-tery Pack from the transceiver.The VX-8GR battery must be correctly installed, tomaintain the waterproof integrity.INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIESREMOVEBATTERY PACK RELEASE KNOBINSTALLIf the battery has never been used, or its charge is depleted, it may be charged by connect-ing the NC-86B/C Battery Charger, as shown in the illustration, to the EXT DC jack. Ifonly 12 ~ 16 Volt DC power is available, the optional E-DC-5B DC Adapter (with itscigarette lighter plug) or E-DC-6 DC Cable may also be used for charging the battery, asshown in the illustration.While the battery is being charged, the display will indicate “CHARGINGCHARGINGCHARGINGCHARGINGCHARGING” and the “A”indicator will glow red. The S-meter will deflect according to the charging status. Whencharging is finished, the display will change to indicate “COMPLETECOMPLETECOMPLETECOMPLETECOMPLETE” and the “A” indica-tor will glow green.E-DC-5BNC-86 E-DC-6FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL10INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIESBATTERY LIFE INFORMATIONWhen the battery charge is almost depleted, a “Low Voltage” indicator will appear on thedisplay. When this icon appears, it is recommended that you charge the battery soon.TX 6 seconds, RX 6 seconds, and Squelched 48 seconds (continuous operating cycle).The present battery voltage can be displayed manually on the LCD, by following theinstructions on page .Battery capacity may be reduced during extremely cold weather. Keeping the radio insideyour parka may help preserve the full charge capacity.OPERATING BAND144 MHz430 MHzFNB-101LI5.0 hours5.0 hoursFBA-3917 hours16 hoursBATTERY INDICATOR: Full battery power: Enough battery power: Low battery power: Poor battery power(w/Blink): Charge (or replace) the batteryBATTERY LIFE (APPROX.)FNB-102LI8.5 hours8.0 hoursFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 11INSTALLATION OF FBA-39 ALKALINE BATTERY CASE (OPTION)The optional FBA-39 Battery Case allows receive monitoring using three “AA” size Al-kaline batteries. Alkaline batteries can also be used for low power transmission in anemergency. The power output will only be selectable 1 W/50 mW (for 50/144/430 MHzFM) or 500 mW/50 mW (for 222 MHz FM), or 1 W fixed (for 50 MHz AM).TO INSTALL ALKALINE BATTERIES INTO THE FBA-391. Lift up the lower right corner of the rubber cover, and then open the cover (Figure 1).2. Referring to Figure 2, slide the batteries into the FBA-39 as shown in the illustration,with the Negative [–] side of the batteries touching the spring connections inside theFBA-39.3. Close the rubber cover.4. Install the FBA-39 in the transceiver in the same manner as the FNB-101LI.INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIESThe FBA-39 does not provide connections for charging, since Alkaline cells cannot bere-charged. Therefore, the NC-86B/C, E-DC-5B, or E-DC-6 may safely be connected tothe EXT DC jack when the FBA-39 is installed.Notes:The FBA-39 is designed for use only with AA-type Alkaline cells.If you do not use the VX-8DR for a long time, remove the Alkaline batteries from theFBA-39, as battery leakage could cause damage to the FBA-39 and/or the trans-ceiver.Figure 1 Figure 2FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL12INTERFACE OF PACKET TNCSThe VX-8GR may be used for Packet operation, using the optional CT-44 MicrophoneAdapter (available from your Yaesu dealer) for easy interconnection to commonly-avail-able connectors wired to your TNC.The audio level from the receiver to the TNC may be adjusted by rotating the DIAL knobwhile pressing and holding the g key, as with voice operation. The input level to theVX-8GR from the TNC should be adjusted at the TNC side; the optimum input voltage isapproximately 5 mV at 2000 Ohms.Be sure to turn the transceiver and TNC off before connecting the cables, to prevent volt-age spikes from damaging your transceiver.TNCSPGNDGND2 k10 FµMICMICEARPTTCT-44 Microphone AdapterFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 13Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the manyfeatures of the VX-8GR. I know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I en-courage you to read the “Operation” section of this manual as thoroughly aspossible, so you’ll get the most out of this fantastic new transceiver. Now. . .let’s getoperating!SWITCHING POWER ON AND OFF1. Be sure the battery pack is installed, and that it is fully charged. Connect the antennato the top panel ANTENNA jack.2. Press and hold in the p(PWR) switch (on the left sideof the front panel) for 2 seconds. Two beeps will be heardwhen the switch has been held long enough. The open-ing message will appear briefly on the display, then thefrequency display will appear. After another two sec-onds, the receive-mode Battery Saver function will be-come active, unless you have disabled it (see page xx).3. To turn the VX-8GR off, press and hold in the p(PWR) switch again for 2 seconds.If you don’t hear the two “Beep” tones when the radio comes on, the Beepermay have been disabled via the Menu system. See page 27, which tells youhow to reactivate the Beeper.ADJUSTING THE VOLUME LEVELRotate the DIAL knob while pressing and holding the gkey to set the desired audio level. Clockwise rotation in-creases the volume level.1) The Volume level may be set on the“A-Band” and “B-Band” separately.2) You may set the Audio Output Level to theSpeaker, and the Earphone Output Level individually. The“SP VOLUME” notation appears in the S- & PO meter area while adjusting the SpeakerOutput Level. The “HP VOLUME” notation appears in the S- & PO meter area whileadjusting the Earphone Output Level.3) Pressing the f key followed by the g key, the DIAL knob function changes to theVolume Level adjustment instead of the frequency control. In this case, the “VolumeLevel Indicator” on the display blinks. Pressing the f key followed by the g keyagain, returns the DIAL knob function to the frequency control. You may also changethe g key function via Set Mode Item 99: VOLUME MODE. See page xx for details.OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL14OPERATIONSQUELCH ADJUSTMENTThe VX-8GR’s Squelch system allows you to mute the background noise when no signalis being received. Not only does the Squelch system make “standby” operation morepleasant, it also significantly reduces battery current consumption.The Squelch system may be adjusted independently for the FM and Wide-FM (FM Broad-cast) modes.1. Press the f key, then press the e key on the leftside of the radio. This provides a “Short-cut” to SetMode Item 85: SQL LEVEL85: SQL LEVEL85: SQL LEVEL85: SQL LEVEL85: SQL LEVEL.2. Now, rotate the DIAL knob to the point where the back-ground noise is just silenced (typically at a setting ofabout “3” or “4” on the scale); this is the point of maxi-mum sensitivity to weak signals.3. When you are satisfied with the Squelch threshold setting,press the PTT key briefly to save the new setting and exit tonormal operation.4. You may also adjust the Squelch setting by using the “Set”(Menu) mode. See page xx for details.1) The Squelch level may be set on the “Main” and “Sub” bands separately.2) If you’re operating in an area of high RF pollution, you may need toconsider “Tone Squelch” operation using the built-in CTCSS Decoder. Thisfeature will keep your radio quiet until a call is received from a station sending a carrierwhich contains a matching (sub audible) CTCSS tone. Or if your friends have radiosequipped with DCS (Digital Coded Squelch) like your VX-8GR, try using that mode forsilent monitoring of busy channels.24-HOUR CLOCKThe VX-8GR has a 24-hour clock with a calendar which covers all dates fromJanuary 1, 2000 through December 31, 2099. Set the clock according to the “ClockSet” column on page xxFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 15SELECTING THE OPERATING BANDIn the factory default configuration, the VX-8GR operates in the “Dual Receive” mode.During Dual Receive operation, the “A-Band” frequency will be displayed on the upperpart of the LCD, and the “B-Band” frequency will be displayed on the lower part. The“Operating” band (the band on which transmission and band/frequency changes are pos-sible) is shown in large characters, and “Receive only” band is shown in small characters.Press the a key briefly to engage the “A-Band” fre-quency as the “Operating” band. Alternatively, press theb key briefly to engage the “B-Band” frequency, as de-scribed previously.Press and hold in the a or b key for 1/2 seconds toswitch to Mono Band Operation. During Mono band op-eration, you may change the display between “double-sizecharacter” and “large character” by pressing the a/b key.OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL16OPERATIONSELECTING THE FREQUENCY BANDThe VX-8GR covers an incred-ibly wide frequency range, overwhich a number of different op-erating modes are used. There-fore, the VX-8GR’s frequencycoverage has been divided intodifferent operating bands. Eachband has its own preset channelsteps and operating modes. You can change the channel steps and operating modes later, ifyou like (see page xx).TO CHANGE OPERATING BANDS1. Press the B key repeatedly. You will see the LCDindication change to a higher frequency band each timeyou press the B key. A Band Number according tothe receiving frequency is also displayed.2. If you wish to move the operating band selection down-ward (toward lower frequencies), press the f keyfirst, then press the B key.3. The VX-8DR uses a dual VFO system (described previously). To switch TX/RX op-eration from the “VFO-A” to the “VFO-B” instantly, press the b key briefly. Pressingthe a key will return TX/RX operation to “VFO-A”. The frequency band shown in“Large” characters is the band on which transmission is possible; the band shown in“Small” characters may only be used for reception.4. Once you have selected the desired band, you may initiate manual tuning (or scan-ning). See the discussions on the next page.If desired, you may omit (skip) one or more bands from the band selectionloop for faster recall of your favorite operating bands. See page xx for de-tails.OPERATING BAND[BAND NUMBER]AIR BandVHF HAM BandVHF BandINFO 1 BandUHF HAM BandUHF BandINFO 2 Band  USA Version: Cellular BlockedFREQUENCY RANGE[1][2][3][4][5][6][7]“VFO-B”108-137 MHz137-174 MHz174-222 MHz222-420 MHz420-470 MHz470-580 MHz–“VFO-A”108-137 MHz137-174 MHz174-222 MHz222-420 MHz420-470 MHz470-800 MHz800-999.99 MHzFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 17FREQUENCY NAVIGATIONThe VX-8GR will initially be operating in the “VFO” mode, as just described. This is a fre-quency step system which allows free tuning throughout the currently-selected operating band.Three basic frequency navigation methods are available on the VX-8GR:1) TUNING DIALRotation of the DIAL knob allows tuning in the pre-pro-grammed steps established for the current operating band.Clockwise rotation of the DIAL knob causes the VX-8GRto be tuned toward a higher frequency, while counter-clock-wise rotation will lower the operating frequency.If you press the f key briefly, then rotate the DIAL knob,frequency steps of 1 MHz will be selected. This feature isextremely useful for making rapid frequency excursions over the wide tuning range of theVX-8GR.2) DIRECT KEYPAD FREQUENCY ENTRYThe desired operating frequency may be entered directly from the keypad.The operating mode will automatically be set once the new frequency is entered via thekeypad.To enter a frequency from the keypad, just press the numbered digits on the keypad in theproper sequence. There is no “Decimal point” key on the VX-8GR. However, there is a short-cut for frequencies ending in zero - press the c key after the last non-zero digit.Examples:To enter 146.520 MHz, press 146520To enter 430.000MHz, press 43cOPERATIONSub Band OperationWhen press the   key followed by the   key, you can cause the controls(except the TX function) to act on the “Sub” band. Whenthe Sub Band operation is activated, the Main band’s“Frequency Control” icon will blinks. After making con-trol to the Sub band, press the   key followed by the key to return control to the “Main” band.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL183) SCANNINGFrom the VFO mode, press and hold in the B key for one second, and while stillholding in the B key, rotate the DIAL knob to selectthe bandwidth for the VFO scanner. Release the B keyto begin scanning toward a higher frequency. The scannerwill stop when it receives a signal strong enough to breakthrough the Squelch threshold. The VX-8GR will then holdon that frequency according to the setting of the “RESUMERESUMERESUMERESUMERESUME”mode (Menu Item 77: SCAN RESUME77: SCAN RESUME77: SCAN RESUME77: SCAN RESUME77: SCAN RESUME).If you wish to reverse the direction of the scan (i.e. toward a lower frequency, instead of ahigher frequency), just rotate the DIAL knob one click in the counter-clockwise directionwhile the VX-8GR is scanning. The scanning direction will be reversed. To revert toscanning toward a higher frequency once more, rotate the DIAL knob one click clock-wise.Press the PTT switch briefly to cancel the scanning. See page xx for more details regard-ing Scan Operation.OPERATIONFREQUENCY NAVIGATIONDual Receive NoticeThe VX-8GR may receive very strong signals on the Image frequency, and/or thereceiver sensitivity may be somewhat reduced by the combination of the “A-Band”and “B-Band” frequencies while Dual Receive operation is engaged.If you experience interference that you suspect may be coming in via an “Image”path, you may calculate the possible frequencies using the formulas below. Thisinformation may be used in the design of effective countermeasures such as traps,etc.9.8304 MHz x n11.7 MHz x n(n is an integer: 1, 2, 3, …)4.9152 MHz x n6.1440 MHz x n“A-Band” Freq. = (“B-Band” Freq. ± 46.35 MHz) x n“B-Band” Freq. = (“A-Band” Freq. ± 47.25 MHz) x n (@ “A-Band” = NFM)“B-Band” Freq. = (“A-Band” Freq. ± 45.8 MHz) x n (@ “A-Band” = WFM)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 19TRANSMISSIONOnce you have set up an appropriate frequency inside one of the dual amateur bands onwhich the VX-8GR can transmit (144 MHz or 430 MHz), you’re ready to transmit. Theseare the most basic steps; more advanced aspects of transmitter operation will be discussedlater.1. To transmit, press the PTT switch, and speak into thefront panel microphone (located in the upper right-handcorner of the speaker grille) in a normal voice level.The LED of the “A” or “B” which is designated the“Main” band will glow red during transmission.2. To return to the receive mode, release the PTT switch.3. During transmission, the relative power level will beindicated on the LCD. Additionally, the “L1”, “L2”, “L3”,or “HI” icon will appear at the left side of the PO meter,corresponding with the “Power” Level setting.1) If you’re just talking to friends in the immediatearea, you’ll get much longer battery life by switching to Low Power opera-tion. To do this, press the f key, then press the d key so that the “LowPower” icon appears at the bottom of the display. And don’t forget: always have anantenna connected when you transmit.2) Transmission is not possible on “Sub” band and any operating bands other than the144 MHz and 430 MHz bands on the “Main” band.3) Never transmit without having an antenna connected.CHANGING THE TRANSMITTER POWER LEVELYou can select between a total of four transmitter power levels on your VX-8GR. Theexact power output will vary somewhat, depending on the voltage supplied to the trans-ceiver. With the standard FNB-101LI Battery Pack and external DC source, the poweroutput levels available are: “L1”, “L2”, “L3”, or “HI”To change the power level:1. The default setting for the power output is “High;” inthis configuration, the display shows the “HI” icon.Pressing the f key, followed by the d key, causesthe power level “L1”, “L2”, or “L3” to appear.2. Press the f key, followed by the d key (repeat-edly, if necessary) to make the “HI” icon appear andrestore “High Power” operation.OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL20OPERATION1) The VX-8GR is smart! You can set up Low power on one band (like UHF),while leaving VHF on High power, and the radio will remember the differentsettings on each band. And whenyou store memories, you can store High andLow power settings separately in eachmemory, so you don’t waste battery powerwhen using very close-in repeaters!2) When you are operating on one of the Lowpower settings, you can press the   key, then press the PTT switch, to cause the VX-8GR to transmit (temporarily) on High power. After one transmission, the power levelwill revert to the previously-selected Low power setting.TRANSMISSIONFNB-101LI/-102LI or EXT DC (7.4 V)HI: 5.0 W,L3: 2.5 W,L2: 1.0 W,L1: 0.05 WTRANSMIT POWERFBA-39(w/Fresh Batteries)L2: 1.0 W,L1: 0.05 WFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 21ADVANCED OPERATIONNow that you mastered the basics of VX-8GR operation, let’s learn more about some ofthe really neat features.KEYBOARD LOCKINGIn order to prevent accidental frequency change or inadvertent transmission, various keysand switches may be locked out. The possible lockout combinations are:KEYKEYKEYKEYKEY: Just the front panel keys are locked outDIALDIALDIALDIALDIAL: Just the top panel DIAL is locked outKEY&DIALKEY&DIALKEY&DIALKEY&DIALKEY&DIAL: Both the DIAL knob and Keys are locked outPTTPTTPTTPTTPTT: The PTT switch is locked (TX not possible)KEY&PTTKEY&PTTKEY&PTTKEY&PTTKEY&PTT: Both the keys and PTT switch are locked outDIAL&PTTDIAL&PTTDIAL&PTTDIAL&PTTDIAL&PTT: Both the DIAL knob and PTT switch are locked outALLALLALLALLALL: All of the above are locked outTo lock out some or all of the keys:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 46: LOCK46: LOCK46: LOCK46: LOCK46: LOCK.3. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this MenuItem.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to choose between one of the lock-ing schemes as outlined above.5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switchto save the new setting and resume normal operation.To activate the locking feature:Press the p(PWR) switch briefly. The “k” icon will appearon the LCD. To cancel locking, press the p(PWR) switch again.Even when “ALL” keys have been locked out, onekey actually is not locked out: the p(PWR) switchremains available so you can unlock your keypad when you want to!FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL22ADJUSTING THE KEYPAD BEEPER VOLUME LEVELA keypad beeper provides useful audible feed back whenever a key button is pressed. Thekeypad beeper level changes according to the receiver audio volume level setting. How-ever, you may adjust the volume balance between the receiving audio and keypad beeperusing Set Mode Item 11: BEEP LEVEL11: BEEP LEVEL11: BEEP LEVEL11: BEEP LEVEL11: BEEP LEVEL.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 9: BEEP9: BEEP9: BEEP9: BEEP9: BEEPLEVELLEVELLEVELLEVELLEVEL.3. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired level.5. When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch tosave the new setting and return to normal operation.Additionally, if you want to turn the beep off:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 11: BEEP11: BEEP11: BEEP11: BEEP11: BEEPSELECTSELECTSELECTSELECTSELECT.3. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to change the setting to “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF”.5. When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch tosave the new setting and return to normal operation.6. If you wish to re-enable the Beeper, just repeat the aboveprocedure, rotating the DIAL knob to select “KEYKEYKEYKEYKEY” or “KEY & SCANKEY & SCANKEY & SCANKEY & SCANKEY & SCAN” in step “4”above.KEYKEYKEYKEYKEY: The beeper sounds when you press any key.KEY & SCANKEY & SCANKEY & SCANKEY & SCANKEY & SCAN: The beeper sounds when you press a key or when the scanner stops.SETTING THE FREQUENCY DISPLAY IMAGE SIZEWhen operating in “Mono” band, pressing the a or b key, causes the LCD to “toggle”between display of double-size characters and large characters. However, this featuredoes not work during Dual Receive operation, as two frequencies are displayed in thatinstance.ADVANCED OPERATIONLARGE CHARACTERSDOUBLE-SIZE CHARACTERSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 23ADVANCED OPERATIONAUDIO MUTINGThe Audio Mute feature is useful in situations where it would be helpful to reduce theaudio level of the “Receive Only” band (Small character display) whenever you receive asignal on the “Main” band (Large character display) during Dual Receive operation.To activate the Audio Mute feature:1. Press the f key, then press the 7 key. This provides a“Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 57: MUTE57: MUTE57: MUTE57: MUTE57: MUTE.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired muting level(MUTE 30%MUTE 30%MUTE 30%MUTE 30%MUTE 30%,  MUTE 50%MUTE 50%MUTE 50%MUTE 50%MUTE 50%,  MUTE 100%MUTE 100%MUTE 100%MUTE 100%MUTE 100%, or OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF).3. When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch to save the new setting andreturn to normal operation.When the Audio Mute feature is activated, the “ ” icon willappear on the display, and the “ ” icon blinks while muting the“Receive Only” band audio.To cancel the Audio Mute feature, just repeat the above proce-dures, selecting “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 2 above.KEYPAD/LCD ILLUMINATIONYour VX-8GR includes a reddish illumination lamp which aids in nighttime operation.The red illumination yields clear viewing of the display in a dark environment, with mini-mal degradation of your night vision. Three options for activating the lamp are provided:KEY 2secKEY 2secKEY 2secKEY 2secKEY 2sec - KEY 10secKEY 10secKEY 10secKEY 10secKEY 10sec: Illuminates the Keypad/LCD for the selected illuminationtime when any key is pressed.CONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUS: Illuminates the Keypad/LCD continuously.OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF: Disables the Keypad/LCD lamp.Here is the procedure for setting up the Lamp mode:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 41: LAMP41: LAMP41: LAMP41: LAMP41: LAMP.3. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select one of the three modes de-scribed above.5. When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch tosave the new setting and return to normal operation.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL24CHANGING THE CHANNEL STEPSThe VX-8GR’s frequency synthesizer provides the option of utilizing tuning steps of 5,6.25, 8.33, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25, 50 and 100 kHz per step. The VX-8GR is set up at thefactory with different default steps for each operating band which are probably satisfactoryfor most operation. However, if you need to change the channel step increments, the proce-dure to do so is very easy.1. Press the f key, then press the 1 key on the left side of the radio. This provides a“Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 89: STEP FREQUENCY89: STEP FREQUENCY89: STEP FREQUENCY89: STEP FREQUENCY89: STEP FREQUENCY.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired step size.3. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return tonormal operation.1) 8.33 kHz steps are available only when receiving on the Air band.2) 5 kHz steps are not available for use on 250 - 300 MHz, nor above 580MHz.CHANGING THE RECEIVING MODEThe VX-8GR provides for automatic mode changing when the radio is tuned to differentoperating frequencies. However, should an unusual receiv-ing situation arise in which you need to change to a differ-ent receiving mode, just press the   key. The receivingmodes available are:AUTOAUTOAUTOAUTOAUTO: The receive mode is automatically set accord-ing to the default values for the selected fre-quency rangeNFMNFMNFMNFMNFM: Frequency ModulationAMAMAMAMAM: Amplitude ModulationUnless you have a compelling reason to do so, leave the Automatic ModeSelection feature on in order to save time and trouble when changing bands.If you make a mode change for a particular frequency or station, you canalways store that one channel into memory, as the mode setting will be memorized alongwith the frequency information.ADVANCED OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 25ADVANCED OPERATIONSQL S-METERA special SQL (Squelch) S-meter feature is provided on this radio. This feature allowsyou to set the squelch so only signals exceeding a certain S-meter level will open thesquelch.To set up the S-meter squelch feature for operation, use the following procedure:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 86: SQL S-86: SQL S-86: SQL S-86: SQL S-86: SQL S-METERMETERMETERMETERMETER.3. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired signal strengthlevel for the squelch threshold (LEVEL1LEVEL1LEVEL1LEVEL1LEVEL1 - LEVEL9LEVEL9LEVEL9LEVEL9LEVEL9 or OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF).5. When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch tosave the new setting and return to normal operation.1) When the SQL S-meter is activated, the S-meter segment corresponding tothe squelch threshold which was set by step 4 above will blink.2) The receiver’s squelch will open based on the higher of the levels set by theNoise Squelch or the S-meter Squelch system.For example:a) If the Noise Squelch (SQL control) is set so that signals at a level of “S-3” will openthe squelch, but the SQL S-meter (Set Mode Item 93) is set to “LEVEL 5,” the squelchwill only open on signals which are “S5” or stronger on the S-meter.b) If the SQL S-meter is set to “S3,” but the Noise Squelch is set to a high level whichwill only pass signals which are Full Scale on the S-meter, the squelch will only open onsignals which are Full Scale on the S-meter. In this case, the Noise Squelch overridesthe action of the S-meter Squelch.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL26REPEATER OPERATIONGENERALRepeater stations, usually located on mountaintops or other high locations, provide a dra-matic extension of the communication range for low-powered hand-held or mobile trans-ceivers. The VX-8GR includes a number of features, which make repeater operation simpleand enjoyable.REPEATER SHIFTSYour VX-8DR has been configured, at the factory, for the repeater shifts customary inyour country. For the 144 MHz band, this usually will be 600 kHz, while the 430 MHzshift will be 1.6 MHz, 7.6 MHz, or 5 MHz (USA version).Depending on the part of the band in which you are operating, the repeater shift may beeither downward ( ) or upward ( ),and one of these icons will appear atthe bottom of the LCD when repeatershifts have been enabled.AUTOMATIC REPEATER SHIFT (ARS)The VX-8GR provides a convenient Automatic Repeater Shift feature, which causes theappropriate repeater shift to be automatically applied whenever you tune into the desig-nated repeater sub-bands in your country. These sub-bands are shown below.If the ARS feature does not appear to be working, you may have accidentally disabled it.To re-enable ARS:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 6969696969: RPT ARS: RPT ARS: RPT ARS: RPT ARS: RPT ARS.3. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON”(to enable AutomaticRepeater Shift).5. When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch tosave the new setting and return to normal operation.European VersionVersion A2-m145.1 145.5145.6 145.8146.0 146.4 147.0 147.6 148.0146.6 147.4Version A70-cm440.0 445.0 450.0ARS-Repeater SubbandsEuro Version 1Euro Version 2439.45438.20433.00 434.60433.40 435.00FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 27MANUAL REPEATER SHIFT ACTIVATIONIf the ARS feature has been disabled, or if you need to set a repeater shift direction otherthan that established by the ARS, you may set the direction of the repeater shift manually.To do this:1. Press the f key, then press the 66666 key. This provides a “Short-cut” to Set ModeItem 70: RPT SHIFT70: RPT SHIFT70: RPT SHIFT70: RPT SHIFT70: RPT SHIFT.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired shift among“–RPT–RPT–RPT–RPT–RPT,” “+RPT+RPT+RPT+RPT+RPT,” and “SIMPLEXSIMPLEXSIMPLEXSIMPLEXSIMPLEX.”3. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and exit tonormal operation.CHANGING THE DEFAULT REPEATER SHIFTSIf you travel to a different region, you may need to change the default repeater shift, toensure compatibility with local operating requirements.To do this, follow the procedure below:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 71: RPT71: RPT71: RPT71: RPT71: RPTSHIFT FREQSHIFT FREQSHIFT FREQSHIFT FREQSHIFT FREQ.3. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the new repeater shift mag-nitude.5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return tonormal operation.If you just have one “odd” split that you need to program, don’t change thedefault repeater shift! Enter the transmit and receive frequencies separately,as shown on page ??.REPEATER OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL28REPEATER OPERATIONCHECKING THE REPEATER UPLINK (INPUT) FREQUENCYIt often is helpful to be able to check the uplink (input) frequency of a repeater, to see if thecalling station is within direct (“Simplex”) range.To do this, just press the h key. You’ll notice that the display has shifted to the repeateruplink frequency. Press the h key again to cause operation toreturn to normal monitoring of the repeater downlink (output)frequency. While you are listening on the input frequency of therepeater using the h key, the repeater offset icon (“ ” or ”)will blink.The configuration of h key may be set either to “RV” (for checking theinput frequency of a repeater, or “HM” (for instant switching to the “Home”channel for the band you are operating on). To change the configuration ofh key, use Set Mode Item 34: HOME/REVERSE. See page xx.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 29CTCSS OPERATIONMany repeater systems require that a very-low-frequency audio tone be superimposed onyour FM carrier in order to activate the repeater. This helps prevent false activation of therepeater by radar or spurious signals from other transmitters. This tone system, called“CTCSS” (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System), is included in your VX-8GR, and isvery easy to activate.CTCSS setup involves two actions: setting the Tone Frequency and then set-ting the Tone Mode. These functions are set up using Set Mode Items 88:SQL TYP and 91: TONE FREQUENCY.1. Press the f key, then press the M key. This provides a “Short-cut” to Set ModeItem 88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE.2. Rotate the DIAL knob so that “TONETONETONETONETONE” appears on the dis-play. This activates the CTCSS Encoder.3. Rotation of the DIAL knob one more “click” in step “2”above will also activate the “TSQTSQTSQTSQTSQ” decode function. When “TSQTSQTSQTSQTSQ” is displayed, theTone Squelch system is active, which mutes your VX-8GR’s receiver until it receivesa call from another radio sending out a matching CTCSS tone. This can helpful in ahigh RF congested location by keeping your radio quiet until a call is received from aspecific station with a matching CTCSS tone.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONYou may notice an additional “DCSDCSDCSDCSDCS” indication appearing while you rotatethe DIAL knob in step 3 above. We’ll discuss the Digital Code Squelch sys-tem shortly.You may notice “REV TONEREV TONEREV TONEREV TONEREV TONE” indication on the display while you rotate theDIAL knob in step 3 above. When the Reverse Tone Squelch system is ac-tive, the VX-8GR’s receiver is muted when it receives a call from a radiosending a matching CTCSS tone. The “RTNRTNRTNRTNRTN” icon will appear on the displaywhen the Reverse Tone Squelch system is activated.You may notice “PR FREQPR FREQPR FREQPR FREQPR FREQ” indication on the display while you rotate theDIAL knob in step 3 above, this means the user programmed Reverse CTCSSDecoder will mute your VX-8GR’s receiver when it receives a call from aradio sending a CTCSS tone matching your programmed tone (determine bySet Mode Item 65: PR FREQUENCY65: PR FREQUENCY65: PR FREQUENCY65: PR FREQUENCY65: PR FREQUENCY). The “PRPRPRPRPR” icon will appear on thedisplay when the Reverse CTCSS Decoder is activated.You may notice “PAGERPAGERPAGERPAGERPAGER” and “MESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGE” indication on the display whileyou rotate the DIAL knob in step 3 above. These appear when the “EnhancedPaging & Code Squelch” and the “Message Feature” are activated. We’lldiscuss these functions later.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL304. When you have made your selection of the CTCSS tone mode, press the M key tosave the new setting and exit to normal operation.5. Press the f key, then press the 2 key. This provides a “Short-cut” to Set ModeItem 91: TONE FREQUENCY91: TONE FREQUENCY91: TONE FREQUENCY91: TONE FREQUENCY91: TONE FREQUENCY.6. Rotate the DIAL knob until the display indicates the fre-quency of the CTCSS tone that you need to send on yourtransmission (ask the repeater owner/operator if you don’tknow the tone frequency).7. When you have made your selection, press the 2 key briefly to save the new settingand exit to normal operation. This is different from the usual method of restoringnormal operation, and it applies only to the configuration of the CTCSS/DCS fre-quencies.1) The repeater may or may notre-transmit a CTCSS tone - somesystems just use CTCSS to controlaccess to the repeater, but do not pass it alongwhen transmitting. If the S-Meter deflects,but you cannot hear the audio, repeat steps“1” through “4” above, but rotate the DIALso that “TSQ” disappears - this will allowyou to hear all traffic on the channel beingreceived.2) During CTCSS operation, you may set up the VX-8GR so a ringing “bell” soundalerts you to an incoming call. See page xx for details.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONCTCSS TONE FREQUENCY (Hz)  67.0   69.3   71.9   74.4   77.0   79.7  82.5   85.4   88.5   91.5   94.8   97.4100.0 103.5 107.2 110.9 114.8 118.8123.0 127.3 131.8 136.5 141.3 146.2151.4 156.7 159.8 162.2 165.5 167.9171.3 173.8 177.3 179.9 183.5 186.2189.9 192.8 196.6 199.5 203.5 206.5210.7 218.1 225.7 229.1 233.6 241.8250.3 254.1 – – – –CTCSS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 31DCS OPERATIONAnother form of tone access control is Digital Code Squelch, or DCS. It is a newer, moreadvanced tone system which generally provides more immunity from false paging thandoes CTCSS. The DCS Encoder/Decoder is built into your VX-8GR, and operation isvery similar to that just described for CTCSS. Your repeater system may be configured forDCS. The DCS Squelch may be quite useful in Simplex operation if your friends usetransceivers equipped with this advanced feature.Note: Just as in CTCSS operation, DCS requires that you set the Tone Mode to DCSand that you select a DCS code.1. Press the f key, then press the M key. This provides a“Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE.2. Rotate the DIAL knob until “DCSDCSDCSDCSDCS” appears on the display;this activates the DCS Encoder/Decoder.3. Press the M key to save the new setting and exit to nor-mal operation.4. Press the f key, then press the 2 key. This provides a“Short-cut” to Set Mode Item  21: DCS CODE21: DCS CODE21: DCS CODE21: DCS CODE21: DCS CODE.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired DCS Code (a three-digit number). Ask therepeater owner/operator if you don’t know DCS Code; if you are working simplex,just set up the DCS Code to be the same as that used by your friends.6. When you have made your selection, press the 2 key to save the new settings andexit to normal operation.Remember that the DCS is anEncode/Decode system, so yourreceiver will remain muted untila matching DCS code is received on an in-coming transmission. Switch the DCS offwhen you’re just tuning around the band!CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONDCS CODE023 025 026 031 032 036 043 047 051 053054 065 071 072 073 074 114 115 116 122125 131 132 134 143 145 152 155 156 162165 172 174 205 212 223 225 226 243 244245 246 251 252 255 261 263 265 266 271274 306 311 315 325 331 332 343 346 351356 364 365 371 411 412 413 423 431 432445 446 452 454 455 462 464 465 466 503506 516 523 526 532 546 565 606 612 624627 631 632 654 662 664 703 712 723 731732734743754––––––FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL32DCS CODE INVERSIONThe DCS system was first introduced in the commercial LMR (Land Mobile Radio) ser-vice, where it is now in widespread use. DCS is sometime referred to by its differentproprietary names, such as DPL® (Digital Private Line®, a registered trademark of Motorola,Inc.).DCS uses a codeword consisting of a 23-bit frame, transmitted (sub audible) at a data rateof 134.4 bps (bit/sec). Occasionally, signal inversion can result in the complement of acode being sent or received. This prevents the receiver’s squelch from opening with DCSenabled, as the decoded bit sequence would not match that selected for operation.Typical situations that might cause inversion to occur are:Connection of an external receiver preamplifier.Operating through a repeater.Connection of an external linear amplifier.Note that code inversion does not mean that any of the above listed equipment is defective!In certain amplifier configurations, the output signal (phase) is inverted from the input. Smallsignal or power amplifiers having an odd number (1, 3, 5, etc.) of amplification stages mayresult in inversion of a transmitted or received DCS code. While under most circumstancesthis should not occur (amplifier designs and industry standards take this into account), if youfind that your receiver squelch does not open when both you and the other station are using acommon DCS code, you or the other station (but not both) can try the following:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 22: DCS22: DCS22: DCS22: DCS22: DCSINVERSIONINVERSIONINVERSIONINVERSIONINVERSION.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select one of the following modes:RX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMAL:Receive and transmit the Normal DCS Tone.RX-INVERT, TX-NORMALRX-INVERT, TX-NORMALRX-INVERT, TX-NORMALRX-INVERT, TX-NORMALRX-INVERT, TX-NORMAL:Receive the Inverted DCS Tone and transmit the Normal DCS Tone.RX-BOTH, TX-NORMALRX-BOTH, TX-NORMALRX-BOTH, TX-NORMALRX-BOTH, TX-NORMALRX-BOTH, TX-NORMAL:Receive both Normal and Inverted DCS Tones and transmit the Normal DCSTone.RX-NORMAL, TX-INVERTRX-NORMAL, TX-INVERTRX-NORMAL, TX-INVERTRX-NORMAL, TX-INVERTRX-NORMAL, TX-INVERT:Receive the Normal DCS Tone and transmit the Inverted DCS Tone.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONDCS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 33RX-INVERT, TX-INVERTRX-INVERT, TX-INVERTRX-INVERT, TX-INVERTRX-INVERT, TX-INVERTRX-INVERT, TX-INVERT:Receive and transmit the Inverted DCS Tone.RX-BOTH, TX-INVERTRX-BOTH, TX-INVERTRX-BOTH, TX-INVERTRX-BOTH, TX-INVERTRX-BOTH, TX-INVERT:Receive both Normal and Inverted DCS Tones and transmit the Inverted DCSTone.5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch, to save the new settingsand exit to normal operation.This is different from the usual method of restoring normal operation, and it applies onlyto the configuration of the CTCSS/DCS frequencies. Remember to restore the defaultsetting “RX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMAL” (Receive and transmit the Normal DCS Tone) whendone.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONDCS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL34TONE SEARCH SCANNINGIn operating situations where you don’t know the CTCSS or DCS tone being used byanother station, you can command the radio to listen to the incoming signal and scan insearch 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 stationtransmitting on the repeater uplink (input) frequency in order to allow Tone SearchScanning to work.To scan for the tone in use:1. Set the radio up for either CTCSS or DCS Decoder operation (see the previous dis-cussion). In the case of CTCSS,“TSQTSQTSQTSQTSQ” will appear on the display;in the case of DCS, “DCSDCSDCSDCSDCS” willappear on the display.2. Press the f key, then press the2 key to recall the Set ModeItem  91: TONE FREQUENCY91: TONE FREQUENCY91: TONE FREQUENCY91: TONE FREQUENCY91: TONE FREQUENCYwhen CTCSS is selected, or MenuItem 21: DCS CODE21: DCS CODE21: DCS CODE21: DCS CODE21: DCS CODE during DCS operation.3. Press and hold in the B key, the “TONE SEARCHTONE SEARCHTONE SEARCHTONE SEARCHTONE SEARCH” notation will appear, releasethe B key 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, andaudio will be allowed to pass. Press the B key to lock in that tone/code, then pressthe 2 key to exit to normal operation.If the Tone Scan feature does not detect a tone or code, it will continue toscan indefinitely. When this happens, it may be that the other station is notsending any tone. You can press the PTT switch to halt the scan at any time.You can also press the e key during Tone Scanning to listen to the (muted) signal fromthe other station. When you release the e key, Tone Scanning will resume after about asecond.Tone Scanning works either in the VFO or Memory modes.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 35CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONEPCS (ENHANCED PAGING & CODE SQUELCH)The VX-8GR includes an Enhanced CTCSS tone encoder/decoder and a dedicated micro-processor providing paging and selective calling features. This allows you to place a callto a specific station (Paging), and to receive calls of your choice directed only to you(Code Squelch).The paging and code squelch systems use two pairs of (alternately switched) CTCSStones which are stored in the pager memories. Basically, your receiver remains silent untilit receives the CTCSS tone pair that matches those stored in the Receiving Pager Memory.The squelch then opens so the caller is heard, and the paging ringer immediately sounds,if activated. When you close the PTT switch to transmit, the CTCSS tone pair that isstored in the Transmitting Pager Memory will be transmitted automatically.On the paged radio, the Code Squelch will close automatically after the incoming pageends. Meanwhile, on the paging radio, the Enhanced Paging and Code Squelch systemwill be disabled after the PTT switch is released after the paging transmission. You mayre-activate the Enhanced Paging and Code Squelch system again.STORING THE CTCSS TONE PAIRS FOR EPCS OPERATION1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select SetMode Item 62: PAGER CODE-RX62: PAGER CODE-RX62: PAGER CODE-RX62: PAGER CODE-RX62: PAGER CODE-RXfor the Receiving CTCSS TonePair or Set Mode Item 63: PAGER63: PAGER63: PAGER63: PAGER63: PAGERCODE-TXCODE-TXCODE-TXCODE-TXCODE-TX for the Transmitting CTCSS Tone Pair.3. Press the mmmmm key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set the CTCSS Tone number whichcorresponds to the first tone of the CTCSS Tone Pair.5. Press the M key (“” icon moves to the right), thenrotate the DIAL knob to set the CTCSS Tone number, whichcorresponds to the second tone of the CTCSS Tone Pair.6. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and exit tonormal operation.The VX-8GR does not recognize the order of the1st tone and the 2nd tone. In other words, for ex-ample, the VX-8GR considers both CTCSS pairs“10, 35” and “35, 10” to be identical.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL36CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONACTIVATING THE ENHANCED PAGING & CODE SQUELCH SYSTEM1. Press the f key, then press the M key. This provides a “Short-cut” to Set ModeItem 88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE.2. Rotate the DIAL knob until “PAGERPAGERPAGERPAGERPAGER” appears on the dis-play; this activates the Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch.3. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and activatethe Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch.To disable the Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch, just repeat the above procedure, rotatethe DIAL knob to select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 2 above.When the Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch feature is acti-vated, the “PAGPAGPAGPAGPAG” notation will appear on the display.During Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch opera-tion, you may set up the VX-8GR so that a ringing“bell” sound alerts you when a call is coming in. See next page for details.PAGING ANSWER BACKWhen you press the PTT switch to respond to a page call, the VX-8GR transmits the sameCTCSS tone pair. This tone pair will open the Code Squelch of the calling station. If youprefer, you can have the VX-8GR respond to page calls automatically (“transpond”). Toenable this feature:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 61: PAGER61: PAGER61: PAGER61: PAGER61: PAGERANS-BACKANS-BACKANS-BACKANS-BACKANS-BACK.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON”.5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and exit tonormal operation.The Paging Answer Back feature constitutes a formof “remote control” operation that may be restricted to certain frequencies.U.S. users should confirm the current status of §97.201(b) of the FCC’s rulesgoverning the Amateur service before utilizing this feature on the 144 MHz band.EPCS (ENHANCED PAGING & CODE SQUELCH)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 37CTCSS/DCS/EPCS BELL OPERATIONDuring CTCSS Decode, DCS, or EPCS operation, you may set up the VX-8GR so that aringing “bell” sound alerts you that a call is coming in. Here is the procedure for activatingthe CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Bell:1. Set the operating frequency to the desired channel.2. Set the transceiver up for CTCSS Decode (“Tone Squelch”), DCS, or EPCS opera-tion, as described previously.3. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 13: BELL13: BELL13: BELL13: BELL13: BELLSELECTSELECTSELECTSELECTSELECT.5. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.6. Rotate the DIAL knob to set the desired “bell” sound. Theavailable choices are BELLBELLBELLBELLBELL, USER BP1USER BP1USER BP1USER BP1USER BP1, USER BP2USER BP2USER BP2USER BP2USER BP2, USERUSERUSERUSERUSERBP3BP3BP3BP3BP3, or OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF (disable the Bell function).Note: When User Beep (described later) does not register,USER BP1USER BP1USER BP1USER BP1USER BP1, USER BP2USER BP2USER BP2USER BP2USER BP2, or USER BP3USER BP3USER BP3USER BP3USER BP3 does not appear.7. Press the m key briefly, then rotate the DIAL knob oneclick counter-clockwise to select Set Mode Item 12: BELL12: BELL12: BELL12: BELL12: BELLRINGERRINGERRINGERRINGERRINGER.8. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this MenuItem.9. Rotate the DIAL knob to set the desired number of rings ofthe Bell. The available choices are 1Time1Time1Time1Time1Time through 20Times20Times20Times20Times20Timesor CONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUS.10. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.When you are called by a station whose transceiver is sending a CTCSS tone, DCS code,or CTCSS tone pair which matches that set into your Decoder, the Bell will ring in accor-dance with this programming.When the CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Bell is activated, the “ ” iconwill appear in the display.To disable the CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Bell function, select the set-ting of Set Mode Item 11: BELL SELECT11: BELL SELECT11: BELL SELECT11: BELL SELECT11: BELL SELECT to “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF”.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL38CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONPROGRAMMING THE USER MELODYThree User Beep Memories are provided, allowing you to create unique original beeptone melodies.Each User Beep Memory can store up to 64 steps with three octaves (“C1C1C1C1C1” through “B3B3B3B3B3”).1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 10: BEEP10: BEEP10: BEEP10: BEEP10: BEEPMELODYMELODYMELODYMELODYMELODY.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the memory slot into whichyou wish to store your programmed beep melody. Avail-able selections are 11111, 22222, and 33333. The previously stored beepmelody will be displayed.5. Press the M key to enable programming the beep melody.Press and hold the h key for one second to clear anyprevious beep melody, if desired.6. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the first beep tone of theUser Beep Melody. Available selections are C1C1C1C1C1 - B3B3B3B3B3, andPOSPOSPOSPOSPOS (rest).7. Press the M key, then rotate the DIAL knob to set thelength of the first beep tone. Available selections are 10ms10ms10ms10ms10ms(10 msec) - 2500ms2500ms2500ms2500ms2500ms (2.5 sec).8. Press the M key to accept the first beep tone of the UserBeep Melody.9. If you make a mistake, press the B key to back-spacethe cursor, then re-enter the correct beep tone or length.10. Repeat steps 6 - 9 until you have completed the User BeepMelody.11. When there is a beep tone, which you wish to delete, bringthe cursor to that beep tone using the B/M key, thenpress the c key repeatedly until the “SELECTSELECTSELECTSELECTSELECT” notationin the “Operation Mode” slot turns into “DELETEDELETEDELETEDELETEDELETE”. Now,press and hold in the c key for one second to delete that beep tone.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS BELL OPERATIONC2C1 C3D2D1 D3E2E1 E3F2F1 F3G2G1 G3A2A1 A3B2B1 B3Step Operation ModeMemory Slot Tone LengthBeep ToneFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 3912. When you wish to add a beep tone into the beep melodystrings, move the cursor to the place where you wish to en-ter the beep tone using the B/M key, then press thec key repeatedly until the “SELECTSELECTSELECTSELECTSELECT” notation in the “Op-eration Mode” slot turns into “INSERTINSERTINSERTINSERTINSERT”. Now, press and hold in the c key for onesecond to add the new beep tone (Tone: “C2”, Tone Length: “500mS”).13. Press and hold the h key for one second to delete all data after the current positionthat may have previously been stored in the User Beep Melody.14. When you have programmed User Beep Melody, press the PTT switch briefly to savethe new setting and exit to normal operation.You may check your work by monitoring the programmed User Beep Melody.To do this, repeat steps 1 - 4 above, then press the f key.SPLIT TONE OPERATIONThe VX-8GR can be operated in a Split Tone configuration via the Set mode.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 87: SQL87: SQL87: SQL87: SQL87: SQLSPLITSPLITSPLITSPLITSPLIT.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON” (to enable the SplitTone feature).5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.When the Split Tone feature is activated, you can see the following additional parametersafter the “MESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGE” parameter while selecting the Set Mode Item 88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE:D CDD CDD CDD CDD CD: DCS Encode only (“DCDCDCDCDC” icon will appear while operating)TONE-DCSTONE-DCSTONE-DCSTONE-DCSTONE-DCS: Encodes a CTCSS Tone and Decodes a DCS code(the “T-DT-DT-DT-DT-D” icon will appear during operation)D CD-TONE SQLD CD-TONE SQLD CD-TONE SQLD CD-TONE SQLD CD-TONE SQL: Encodes a DCS code and Decodes a CTCSS Tone(the “D-TD-TD-TD-TD-T” icon will appear during operation)Select the desired operating mode from the selections shown above.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONCTCSS/DCS/EPCS BELL OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL40CTCSS/DCS/EPCS VIBRATOR OPERATIONThe CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Vibrator operation is similar to the CTCSS/DCS/EPCS BELLoperation. The CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Vibratory operation inform you that a call is comingin by vibration, during CTCSS Decode, DCS, or EPCS operation. Here is the procedurefor activating the CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Vibrator:1. Set the operating frequency to the desired channel.2. Set the transceiver up for CTCSS Decode (“Tone Squelch”), DCS, or EPCS opera-tion, as described previously.3. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 97: VIBRA-97: VIBRA-97: VIBRA-97: VIBRA-97: VIBRA-TORTORTORTORTOR.5. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.6. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “SIGNALINGSIGNALINGSIGNALINGSIGNALINGSIGNALING”.Note: When this item is set to “BUSYBUSYBUSYBUSYBUSY”, the VX-8GR vi-brates just to have received a signal without affecting theCTCSS, DCS, or EPCS decoder.7. Press the m key briefly, then rotate the DIAL knob oneclick clockwise to select Set Mode Item 98: VIBRATOR98: VIBRATOR98: VIBRATOR98: VIBRATOR98: VIBRATORMODEMODEMODEMODEMODE.8. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this MenuItem.9. Rotate the DIAL knob to set the desired vibrating mode.The available choices are:MODE1MODE1MODE1MODE1MODE1: The VX-8GR vibrates continuously.MODE2MODE2MODE2MODE2MODE2: The VX-8GR vibrates at a long interval.MODE3MODE3MODE3MODE3MODE3: The VX-8GR vibrates at a short interval.10. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.When you are called by a station whose transceiver is sending a CTCSS tone, DCS code,or CTCSS tone pair which matches that set into your Decoder, the VX-8GR will vibrate inaccordance with this programming.When the CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Vibrator operation is activated,the “dashed line” will appear under the mode icon.To disable the CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Vibrator operation, select thesetting of Set Mode Item 97: VIBRATOR97: VIBRATOR97: VIBRATOR97: VIBRATOR97: VIBRATOR to “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF”.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 41CTCSS/DCS/EPCS OPERATIONTONE CALLING (1750 HZ)If the repeaters in your country require a 1750-Hz burst tone for access (typically in Eu-rope), you can set the e key to serve as a “Tone Call” switch instead. To change theconfiguration of this switch, we again use the Menu to help us.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 56: MONI56: MONI56: MONI56: MONI56: MONI/T-T-T-T-T-CALLCALLCALLCALLCALL.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “T-CALLT-CALLT-CALLT-CALLT-CALL” on the display.5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.To access a repeater, press and hold in the e key for the amountof time specified by the repeater owner/operator. The transmitter will automatically beactivated, and a 1750-Hz audio tone will be superimposed on the carrier. Once access tothe repeater has been gained, you may release the e key, and use the PTT switch foractivating the transmitter.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL42MEMORY MODEThe VX-8GR provides a wide variety of memory system resources. These include:“Regular” Memory Channels, which include:900 “Standard” memory channels, numbered “11111” through “900900900900900.”99 “Frequency Skip Memories,” numbered “901901901901901” through “999999999999999.”7 “Home” channels, providing storage and quick recall of one prime frequencyon each operating band.50 sets of band-edge memories, also known as “Programmable Memory Scan”channels, labeled “L01L01L01L01L01/U01U01U01U01U01” through “L50L50L50L50L50/U50U50U50U50U50.”24 Memory Banks, labeled “b 1b 1b 1b 1b 1” through “b24b24b24b24b24.” Each Memory Bank can beassigned up to 100 channels from the “regular” memory channels.Special Memory Channels, which include:One “Emergency Automatic ID (EAI)” Channel.10 “Weather Broadcast” Channels.57 VHF Marine Channels.HOME Channels(7 channels)VHF Marine Channels(57 channels)9008894321904903902901999998L50/U50L49/U49L4/U4L3/U3L2/U2L1/U1Standard Memory Channels(900 channels) Frequency Skip Memory Channels(99 channels) PMS Memory Channels(50 Sets)Weather Broadcast Channels(10 channels)WX10WX9WX4WX3WX2WX1EAIEAI Channel(1 channel)Info. Band-2UHF BandInfo. Band-1VHF BandAir BandFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 43MEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)MEMORY STORAGE1. Select the desired frequency, while operating in the VFO mode. Be sure to set up anydesired CTCSS or DCS tones, as well as any desired repeater offset. The power levelmay also be set at this time, if you wish to store it.2. Press and hold in the f key for 1/2 second.3. Within five seconds of releasing the f key, you need to make a decision regardingchannel storage. The microprocessor will automatically se-lect the next-available “free” channel (a memory registeron which no data has been stored). If you do not wish tomake a change and accept the “free” channel, proceed tostep 4. If you wish to select a different channel number into which to store the data,rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired memory channel.Advice: You may jump 100 memory channels, if you’re in a hurry (101  201  301 …),by pressing the m key (multiple times, if necessary). If you see the “ ” icon at theupper left of the channel number, it means that the channel currently has no datawritten on it (i.e. the channel is “free”: the occupied channel displays the “ ” icon).4. Press the f key once more to store the frequency into memory.5. You still will be operating in the “VFO” mode, so you may now enter other frequen-cies, and store them into additional memory locations, by repeating the above pro-cess.1) You may change the automatic memory channel selection feature to selectthe “next-highest memory channel above the last-stored memory channel”instead of the “next-available ‘free’ channel” via the Set Mode Item 51:MEMORY WRITE; see page xx.2) You may disable the memory write function which prevents a memory write operationif you should accidentally perform a wrong key sequence via the Set Mode Item 49:MEMORY PROTECT. See page xx for details. When the memory write protect is acti-vated, the “PROTECT” notation appears on the display while a memory write opera-tion is being performed.3) You may change the duration time of the secondary function (press and holding thekey) of the f key via the Set Mode Item 31: FW KEY HOLD TIME; see page xx.IMPORTANT NOTEOn rare occasions the memorized data may become corrupted by miss operation,or static electricity. When repairs are made the memory data may be lost. Pleasewrite down or record the memorized information so you will be able to restore it ifneeded.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL44MEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)MEMORY STORAGESTORING INDEPENDENT TRANSMIT FREQUENCIES (“ODD SPLITS”)All memories can store an independent transmit frequency, for operation on repeaterswith non-standard shift. To do this:1. Store the receive frequency using the method already described under MEMORY STOR-AGE (it doesn’t matter if a repeater offset is active).2. Tune to the desired transmit frequency, then press and hold in the f key for 1/2second.3. Within five seconds of releasing the f key, rotate the DIAL knob to select the samememory channel number as used in step “1” above.4. Press and hold in the PTT switch, then briefly press the f key once more whileholding the PTT switch in (this does not key the transmitter).Whenever you recall a memory, which contains in-dependently-stored transmit and receive frequen-cies, the “ ” indication will appear in the display.MEMORY RECALL1. While operating in the VFO mode, press the c key toenter the Memory mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired channel.3. If you press the f key briefly, then rotate the DIAL knob,the memory channel will be selected in 10 channels per step.4. To return to the VFO mode, press the c key.1) When the radio is already set to the Memory mode, an easy way to recallmemories is to key in the memory channel number, then press the c key.For example, to recall memory channel #14, press 14 c.2) You may change the step of the fast channel selection mode (f key + DIAL knob)via Set Mode Item 47: MEMORY FAST STEP. See page xx for details.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 45A special one-touch “HOME” channel is available for each operating band, to allow quickrecall of a favorite operating frequency on each band.HOME CHANNEL RECALL1. Press the f key, then press the h key to recall the HomeChannel on the band group where you are currently operat-ing.2. Press the f key, then press the h key again to return tothe previously-used frequency (either a VFO or a memory channel).The transceiver switches to VFO mode if the DIAL knob is turned.You may disable the above function (automatically switching to the VFO mode)using Set Mode Item 33: HOME VFO.HOME CHANNEL FREQUENCY CHANGEThe factory defaults for the Home channels are listed below. You may re-program theHome channel in a manner identical to that used for the regular memories:1. Select the desired frequency, while operating in the VFO mode. Be sure to set up anydesired CTCSS or DCS tones, as well as any desired repeater offset. The power levelmay also be set at this time, if you wish to store it.2. Press and hold in the f key for 1/2 second.3. While the memory channel number is blinking, just press the h key. The frequencyand other data (if any) will now be stored in the special HOME channel register.4. You may repeat this process on the other operating bands.Note that the UHFHOME channel isthe one used during“Emergency” operation. Seepage xx for details regardingthis feature.MEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)HOME CHANNEL MEMORYOPERATING BAND[BAND NUMBER]Air Band [1]VHF HAM Band [2]VHF Band [3]Information Band 1 [4]UHF HAM Band [5]UHF Band [6]Information Band 2 [7]EXP VERSION108.000 MHz144.000 MHz174.000 MHz222.000 MHz430.000 MHz470.000 MHz860.000 MHzUSA VERSION108.000 MHz146.520 MHz174.000 MHz222.000 MHz446.000 MHz470.000 MHz860.000 MHzDEFAULT HOME CHANNELSFREQUENCYFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL46LABELING MEMORIESYou may wish to append an alpha-numeric “Tag” (label) to a memory or memories, to aidin recollection of the channel’s use (such as a club name, etc.). This is easily accomplishedusing the Set Mode.1. Recall the memory channel on which you wish to append alabel.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the SetMode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 48: MEMORY48: MEMORY48: MEMORY48: MEMORY48: MEMORYNAMENAMENAMENAMENAME.4. Press the m key briefly to enable programming of thename tag. Press and hold the h key for two seconds toclear any previous name, if desired.5. Rotate the DIAL knob, or press one of the keyboard keys,to select the first digit of the desired label.Example 1: Rotate the DIAL knob to select any of the 61available characters.Example 2: Press the 8 key repeatedly to toggle amongthe seven available characters associated withthat key: t  u  v  8  T  U  V6. Press the M key to move to the next character, if needed.7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 to program the remaining letters, num-bers, or symbols of the desired label. A total of 16 charac-ters may be used in the creation of a label.8. Press and hold the h key for two seconds to delete alldata after the cursor that may have been previously stored.9. If you make a mistake, press the B key to backspace the cursor, then re-enter thecorrect letter, number, or symbol.10. When you have completed the creation of the label, press the PTT switch briefly tosave the label and exit to normal operation.During Memory Recall (“MR”) with Mono Band operation, thealphanumeric Tag will appear below the frequency display.The alphanumeric Tag does not appear if you activatethe Dual Receive Operation.MEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 47MEMORY OFFSET TUNINGOnce you have recalled a particular memory channel, you may easily tune off that chan-nel, as though you were in the “VFO” mode.1. With the VX-8GR in the Memory Recall (“MR”) mode, select the desired memorychannel.2. Now press the f key, then press c key. The “MRMRMRMRMR” in-dicator will be replaced by one which says “TUNTUNTUNTUNTUN” (“MemoryTuning”).3. Rotate the DIAL, as desired, to tune to a new frequency.The synthesizer steps selected for VFO operation on the current band will be the stepsused during Memory Tuning.4. If you wish to return to the original memory frequency, press c key briefly. The“TUNTUNTUNTUNTUN” indicator will be replaced by “MRMRMRMRMR.”5. If you wish to store a new frequency set during Memory Tuning, just press and holdin the f key for one second, per normal memory storage procedure. The micropro-cessor will automatically set itself to the next-available clear memory location, andyou then press the f key again, briefly to lock in the new frequency.If you want to replace the original memory contents with the new frequencysettings, be sure to rotate the DIAL to the original memory channel number!Any required CTCSS/DCS changes, or repeater offset modifications, must be done beforestoring the data into the new (or original) memory channel location.MEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL48MEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)MASKING MEMORIESThere may be situations where you want to “Mask” memories so they are not visibleduring memory selection or scanning. For example, several memories used only in a cityyou visit infrequently may be stored, then “Masked” until you visit that city, at which timeyou can “Unmask” them for normal use (except for Memory Channel “1”).1. Press the c key, if needed, to enter the Memory Recall (“MR”) mode.2. Press and hold in the f key for 1/2 second, then rotatethe DIAL to select the memory channel to be “Masked”from view.3. Press the d key. The confirmation message (MR MASK?MR MASK?MR MASK?MR MASK?MR MASK?)will appear on the display. Press the d key once more,the display will revert to memory channel #1. If you rotatethe DIAL to the location you just “Masked,” you will ob-serve that it is now invisible.4. To Unmask the hidden memory, repeat the above procedure: press and hold in thef key for 1/2 second, rotate the DIAL to select the masked memory’s number, thenpress the d key to restore the memory channel’s data.Watch out! You can manually store data over a “Masked” memory, deletingprevious data, if you’re not careful. Use the “next available memory” stor-age technique to avoid over-writing a masked memory.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 49MEMORY BANK OPERATIONThe large number of memories available in the VX-8GR could be difficult to utilize with-out some means of organizing them. Fortunately, the VX-8GR includes provision fordividing the memories into as many as 24 Memory Banks, so you can categorize thememories in a manner convenient to you. You may enter and exit the “Memory Bank”mode by a single press of the B key, as we shall see below.ASSIGNING MEMORIES TO A MEMORY BANK1. Recall the memory channel to be assigned to a MemoryBank.2. Press and hold in the f key for 1/2 second, then rotate theDIAL knob to select the Memory Bank number where youwant to include this channel (Memory Bank numbers arefound before memory channel “11111”). The “ ” icon will ap-pear at the upper left of the Memory Bank number if somechannels have already been assigned to that Memory Banknumber. (If no channels are assigned to the Memory Bank, the “ ” icon appears onthe left of the Memory Bank number).3. Press the f key briefly.4. At this point, the memorychannel data is copied intothe Memory Bank.1) You may assignone memory chan-nel into severalMemory Banks.2) The PMS memory channels(L1/U1 through L50/U50) may not be assigned to a Memory Bank.MEMORY BANK RECALL1. Press the c key, if needed, to enter the MR mode.2. Press the B key to activate the “Memory Bank” mode.The “MRMRMRMRMR” indicator will be replaced by one of the MemoryBank numbers (“B 1B 1B 1B 1B 1” through “B24B24B24B24B24”).3. Press the f key, and then press the B key,then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desiredMemory Bank.4. Press the B key. Now, as you rotate the DIAL knobto select memories, you will observe that you can only selectmemory channels in the current Memory Bank.Memory ChannelCH 1       145.000 MHzCH 2       145.080 MHzCH 3       435.000 MHzCH 4       435.500 MHzCH 5       145.800 MHzCH 6       436.000 MHzCH 7       128.800 MHzCH 897   145.620 MHzCH 898   436.780 MHzCH 899   128.600 MHzMemory Bank “5”Air Band ChannelsMemory Bank “4”Club ChannelsMemory Bank “3”All Amateur Band ChannelsMemory Bank “1”144 MHz Amateur Band ChannelsMemory Bank “2”430 MHz Amateur Band ChannelsMEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL50MEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)5. To change to another Memory Bank, press the f key, then press the B key.Now rotate the DIAL knob to select the new Memory Bank, then press the B keyagain.6. To exit from Memory Bank operation, just press the B key. The Memory Banknumber will be replaced by the “MRMRMRMRMR”, and you are now in the “regular” MemoryRecall mode, without utilization of the Memory Banks. The memories stored in thevarious Banks will remain in those banks. You do not need to store them again.REMOVING MEMORIES FROM A MEMORY BANK1. Recall the memory channel to be removed from a Memory Bank.2. Press and hold the f key for 1/2 second, then press the d key to remove thememory channel data from the Memory bank.CHANGING A MEMORY BANK’S NAMEYou may change the default Memory Bank Names, which are shown on the display whileselecting the Memory Bank your desire.1. Press and hold in the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Set Mode Item 6: BANK6: BANK6: BANK6: BANK6: BANKNAMENAMENAMENAMENAME.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the memory bank on whichyou wish to change a label.5. Press the M key briefly to enable changing of the nametag. Press and hold the h key for two seconds to clearany previous name, if desired.6. Rotate the DIAL knob, or press one of the keyboard keys,to select the first digit of the desired label.Example 1: Rotate the DIAL knob to select any of the 61available characters.Example 2: Press the 2 key repeatedly to toggle amongthe seven available characters associated withthat key: a  b  c  2  A  B  C7. Press the M key to move to the next character, if needed.8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 to program the remaining letters, num-bers, or symbols of the desired label. A total of 16 charac-ters may be used in the creation of a label.9. Press and hold the   key for two seconds to delete alldata after the cursor that may have been previously stored.MEMORY BANK OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 5110. If you make a mistake, press the B key to backspace the cursor, then re-enter thecorrect letter, number, or symbol.11. When you have completed the changes of the label, press the PTT switch to save thelabel and exit.MOVING MEMORY DATA TO THE VFOData stored on memory channels can easily be moved to VFO, if you like.1. Press the c key, if needed, to enter the Memory Recall (“MR”) mode.2. Press and hold in the f key for 1/2 second, then rotatethe DIAL knob to select the memory channel containing thefrequency data to be moved to VFO.3. Press the c key. The confirmation message (OVER-OVER-OVER-OVER-OVER-WRITE?WRITE?WRITE?WRITE?WRITE?) will appear on the display. Press the c key oncemore, the data will now have been copied to VFO, althoughthe original memory contents will remain intact on the pre-viously stored channel. Press the PTT switch to cancel theMoving Memory Data procedure, if desired.If a Split Frequency Memory channel was transferred, the Tx frequency will beignored (you will be set up for Simplex operation on the Receive frequency).MEMORY ONLY MODEOnce memory channel programming has been completed, you may place the radio in a“Memory Only” mode, whereby VFO operation is impossible. This may be particularlyuseful during public-service events where a number of operators may be using the radiofor the first time, and ultimate simplicity of channel selection is desired.To place the radio into the Memory Only mode, turn the radio off. Now press and hold inthe c key while turning the radio on.To return to normal operation, repeat the above power-on procedure.MEMORY MODE (REGULAR MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)MEMORY BANK OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL52MEMORY MODE (SPECIAL MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)The VX-8GR provides Special Memory Channels, which are made up of:10 Weather Broadcast Channels.57 VHF Marine Channels1) The Special Memory Channels are only recalled on the “A-Band”2) You may assign the Special Memory Channels to a Memory Bank. See page xx re-garding Memory Bank Operation for details.WEATHER BROADCAST CHANNELSThe VHF Weather Broadcast Station Memory Channel Bank has been pre-programmed atthe factory, for quick selection of NOAA weather information stations.1. Press the a key briefly to set the “A-Band” to the “Operating” band.2. Press the f key, then press the 9 key, to recall the Special Memory Menu.3. Press the B key, repeatedly if necessary to select the“WX CHWX CHWX CHWX CHWX CH” (thus recalling the Weather Broadcast MemoryBank).4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Weather Broad-cast channel.5. If you wish to scan this bank to search for louder stations,just press the PTT switch. When the scanner pauses on astation, press the PTT switch once to halt the scan, or pressit twice to restart the scan.6. To exit to normal operation, press the c key, or press f key followed by the 9key.In the event of extreme weather disturbances, such as storms and hurri-canes, the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) sendsa weather alert accompanied by a 1050 Hz tone and subsequent weatherreport on one of the NOAA weather channels. You may disable the Weather Alert tonevia Set Mode Item 100: WX ALERT, if desired. See page xx.CH12345CH678910FREQUENCY162.550 MHz162.400 MHz162.475 MHz162.425 MHz162.450 MHzFREQUENCY162.500 MHz162.525 MHz161.650 MHz161.775 MHz163.275 MHzWX CHANNEL FREQUENCY LISTFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 53VHF MARINE MEMORY CHANNELSThe VHF Marine Channel Bank has been pre-programmed at the factory, for quick selec-tion.1. Press the a key briefly to set the “A-Band” to the “Operating” band.2. Press the f key, then press the 9 key, to recall the Spe-cial Memory Menu.3. Press the B key, repeatedly if necessary to select the“INTVHFINTVHFINTVHFINTVHFINTVHF” (thus recalling the VHF Marine Channel Bank).4. Rotate the DIAL to select any of the 57 available VHF Ma-rine Channels.5. Press the h key to monitor the duplex frequency whilerecalling a semi-duplex channel (such as Channel “1”). Pressthe h key again to revert to simplex monitoring.6. To exit to normal operation, press the c key, or press f key followed by the 9key.VHF MARINE CHANNEL FREQUENCY LISTMEMORY MODE (SPECIAL MEMORY CHANNEL OPERATION)CHNo.123456789101112131415CHNo.606162636465666768697071727374CHNo.16171819202122232425262728CHNo.7576777879808182838485868788FREQUENCY(MHz)156.050 160.650156.100 160.700156.150 160.750156.200 160.800156.250 160.850156.300156.350 160.950156.400156.450156.500156.550156.600156.650156.700156.750FREQUENCY(MHz)156.800156.850156.900 161.500156.950 161.550157.000 161.600157.050 161.650157.100 161.700157.150 161.750157.200 161.800157.250 161.850157.300 161.900157.350 161.950157.400 162.000FREQUENCY(MHz)156.025 160.625156.075 160.675156.125 160.725156.175 160.775156.225 160.825156.275 160.875156.325 160.925156.375156.425156.475156.525156.575156.625156.675156.725FREQUENCY(MHz)156.775156.825156.875156.925 161.525156.975 161.575157.025 161.625157.075 161.675157.125 161.725157.175 161.775157.225 161.825157.275 161.875157.325 161.925157.375 161.975157.425 162.025FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL54GENERALThe VX-8GR allows you to scan just the memory channels, the entire operating band, ora portion of that band. It will halt on signals encountered, so you can talk to the station(s)on that frequency, if you like.Scanning operation is basically the same in each of the above modes. Before you begin,take a moment to select the way in which you would like the scanner to resume scanningafter it halts on a signal.SETTING THE SCAN-RESUME TECHNIQUEThree options for the Scan-Resume mode are available:2.0sec - 10.0sec2.0sec - 10.0sec2.0sec - 10.0sec2.0sec - 10.0sec2.0sec - 10.0sec: In this mode, the scanner will halt on a signal it encounters, and willhold there for the selected resume time. If you do not take action todisable the scanner within that time period, the scanner will resumeeven if the station is still active.BUSYBUSYBUSYBUSYBUSY: In this mode, the scanner will halt on a signal it encounters. When thecarrier has dropped because the other station ceased transmission, thescanner will resume. In the case of constant-carrier signals like WeatherStation broadcasts, the scanner will likely remain on this frequencyindefinitely. The Scan Re-start Delay time (default interval: 2 seconds)is set by Set Mode Item 76: SCAN RE-START76: SCAN RE-START76: SCAN RE-START76: SCAN RE-START76: SCAN RE-START.HOLDHOLDHOLDHOLDHOLD: In this mode, the scanner will halt on a signal it encounters. It will notrestart automatically; you must manually re-initiate scanning if youwish to resume.To set the Scan-Resume mode:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 77: SCAN77: SCAN77: SCAN77: SCAN77: SCANRESUMERESUMERESUMERESUMERESUME.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired scan-resumemode.5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and exit tonormal operation.The default condition for this Set Mode Item is “5.0sec”.SCANNINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 55SCANNINGTo set the Scan-Restart Delay Time:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 76: SCAN76: SCAN76: SCAN76: SCAN76: SCANRE-STARTRE-STARTRE-STARTRE-STARTRE-START.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Scan-RestartDelay Time. Available selections are 0.1sec0.1sec0.1sec0.1sec0.1sec - 0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec(0.1sec/step) and 1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec - 10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec (0.5sec/step).5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and exit tonormal operation.The default condition for this Set Mode Item is “2.0sec”.GENERALFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL56VFO SCANNINGThis mode allows you to scan on the VFO mode.1. Select the VFO mode by pressing the c key, if necessary.2. Press and hold in the B key, then rotate the DIAL knob while holding in theB key (the current bandwidth for the VFO scanner willappear on the display) to select the bandwidth for the VFOscanner. Available selections are ±1 MHz±1 MHz±1 MHz±1 MHz±1 MHz, ±2 MHz±2 MHz±2 MHz±2 MHz±2 MHz, ±5±5±5±5±5MHzMHzMHzMHzMHz, BANDBANDBANDBANDBAND, ALLALLALLALLALL, and PMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-X.±1 MHz±1 MHz±1 MHz±1 MHz±1 MHz, ±2 MHz±2 MHz±2 MHz±2 MHz±2 MHz, ±5 MHz±5 MHz±5 MHz±5 MHz±5 MHz: The scanner will sweep frequencies within the selectedbandwidth.BANDBANDBANDBANDBAND: The scanner will sweep frequencies only on the cur-rent band.ALLALLALLALLALL: The scanner will sweep all frequencies between 108MHz and 999.99 MHz.PMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-X: The scanner will sweep frequencies within the cur-rently-selected PMS frequency pair. See page xx fordetails.3. Release the B key to start scanning.4. When the scanner encounters a signal strong enough to open the squelch, the scannerwill halt temporarily; the decimal point of the frequency display will blink during this“Pause” condition.5. The scanner will then resume according to the Scan-Resume mode selected in theprevious section.6. To cancel scanning, press the PTT switch or c key.1) If you want to change direction of the scan while it is underway, rotate theDIAL knob one click in the opposite direction. You’ll see the scanner turnaround and change frequency downward!2) You may change the scanner’s method of operation so the VFO frequency will jumpto the low band edge of the next band when the VFO frequency reaches the high edgeof the current band (or vice versa). See page xx regarding Set Mode Item 95: VFOMODE.SCANNINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 57SCANNINGHOW TO SKIP (OMIT) A FREQUENCY DURING VFO SCANIf the VFO scan stops on a frequency or frequencies that you do not need (such as aspurious radiation from a television), such frequencies can be “skipped” during VFO scan-ning. A special “Frequency Skip Memory” bank is reserved to store these frequencies.To skip a frequency during VFO scanning:1. While VFO scanning is stopped on the frequency that you do not need, press and holdthe f key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Fre-quency Skip Memory channel (900900900900900 - 999999999999999). The microprocessor will automaticallyselect the next-available “free” Frequency Skip Memory channel (a memory registeron which no data has been stored). If you see the “ ” icon at the upper left of thechannel number, it means that the channel currently has no data written on it (i.e. thechannel is “free”).2. Press the f key to store the frequency into the Frequency Skip Memory. It will nowbe ignored during VFO scanning.To re-institute a frequency into the VFO scan loop:1. Press the c key, if needed, to enter the Memory Recall (“MR”) mode.2. Press and hold in the f key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to select thememory channel to be re-instituted.3. Press the d key to delete the channel from the Frequency Skip Memory; this willrestore the frequency into the VFO scan loop.The VX-8GR has 100 VFO Frequency Skip Memory Channels.VFO SCANNINGSETTING THE SQUELCH LEVEL DURING ACTIVE SCANNING OPERATIONThe VX-8GR allows adjustment of the Squelch level “on the fly” while you arescanning.1. While the scanner is engaged, press the   key,then press the   key (the current squelch levelwill appear below the frequency display).2. Rotate the DIAL to select the desired Squelch level.3. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting and exit to normal op-eration. In this case, pressing the PTT switch this one time will not causingscanning to stop.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL58SCANNINGMEMORY SCANNINGMemory scanning is also easy to initiate:1. Set the radio to the Memory Recall (“MR”) mode by pressing the c key, if neces-sary.2. Press and hold in the B key, then rotate the DIAL knob while holding in theB key (the current Memory Scan mode will appear onthe frequency display) to select the desired Memory Scanmode. Available selections are ALL CHALL CHALL CHALL CHALL CH, TAG1TAG1TAG1TAG1TAG1, TAG2TAG2TAG2TAG2TAG2, BANDBANDBANDBANDBAND,and PMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-X.ALL CHALL CHALL CHALL CHALL CH: The scanner sweeps all Memory channels.TAG1TAG1TAG1TAG1TAG1: The scanner sweeps only those Memory channels with the same first digit ofthe alpha/numeric tag as the first channel on which scanning started.TAG2TAG2TAG2TAG2TAG2: The scanner sweeps only those Memory channels with the same first andsecond digits of the alpha/numeric tag as the first channel on which scan-ning started.BANDBANDBANDBANDBAND: The scanner sweeps only those Memory channels which are memorized onthe same operating band as the first channel on which scanning started.PMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-X: The scanner will sweep frequencies within the currently-selected PMS fre-quency pair. See page xx for details.3. Release the B key to start scanning.4. As with VFO scanning, the scanner will halt on any signal encountered that is strongenough to open the squelch; it will then resume scanning according to the Scan-Re-sume mode set previously. When there are no memory channels corresponding to theselected Memory Scan mode, the “MS ERRMS ERRMS ERRMS ERRMS ERR” notation will appear on the display.5. To cancel scanning, press the PTT switch or c key.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 59HOW TO SKIP (OMIT) A CHANNEL DURING MEMORY SCANAs mentioned previously, some continuous-carrier stations like a Weather Broadcast sta-tion will seriously impede scanner operation if you are using the “Carrier Drop” Scan-Resume mode, as the incoming signal will not pause long enough for the transceiver toresume scanning. Such channels may be “Skipped” during scanning, if you like:1. Recall the Memory Channel to be skipped during scanning.2. Press the f key, then press the 5 key to appear a small“” icon at the left of the frequency display. The currentMemory Channel will now be ignored (skipped) duringscanning (the “skipped” channel will, of course, still be ac-cessible via manual channel selection methods using the DIAL knob in the MemoryRecall (“MR”) mode, whether or not it is locked out of the scanning loop).To re-institute a channel into the scanning loop, press the f key followed by the 5key twice, to disappear the small “” icon from display.Note: You may notice a blinking “” icon while you perform above procedure. It indi-cates the “Preferential Memory Scan” channel, described in the next column.PREFERENTIAL MEMORY SCANThe VX-8GR also allows you to set up a “Preferential Scan List” of channels which youcan “flag” within the memory system. These channels are designated by a blinking “”icon when you have selected them, one by one, for the Preferential Scan List. When youinitiate memory scanning on a channel with the blinking “” icon appended, only thosechannels bearing the blinking “” icon will be scanned. If you initiate scanning on achannel which does not have the blinking “” icon appended, you will scan all channelsincluding those with the blinking “” icon appended.Here is the procedure for setting up and using the Preferential Scan List:1. Recall the Memory Channel which you wish to add to the Preferential Scan List.2. Press the f key followed by the 5 key until a blinkingsmall “” icon appears at the left of the frequency display.To clear the memory channel from the “Preferential Scan List”,press the f key followed by the 5 key to disappear theblinking small “” icon from display.SCANNINGMEMORY SCANNINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL60To initiate Preferential Memory Scan:1. Press the c key briefly to enter the Memory Recall (“MR”) mode, if you are notusing memories already.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select any channel which has ablinking “” icon appended to the channel number.2. Press and hold in the B key, then rotate the DIAL knobwhile holding in the B key (the current Memory Scanmode will appear on the frequency display) to select thedesired Memory Scan mode. Available selections are ALLALLALLALLALLCHCHCHCHCH(ONLYONLYONLYONLYONLY), TAG1TAG1TAG1TAG1TAG1(ONLYONLYONLYONLYONLY), TAG2TAG2TAG2TAG2TAG2(ONLYONLYONLYONLYONLY), BANDBANDBANDBANDBAND(ONLYONLYONLYONLYONLY), andPMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-X.ALL CHALL CHALL CHALL CHALL CH: The scanner sweeps all Preferential Scan Channels.TAG1TAG1TAG1TAG1TAG1: The scanner sweeps only those Preferential Scan Channels with the samefirst digit of the alpha/numeric tag as the first channel on which scanningstarted.TAG2TAG2TAG2TAG2TAG2: The scanner sweeps only those Preferential Scan Channels with the samefirst and second digits of the alpha/numeric tag as the first channel on whichscanning started.BANDBANDBANDBANDBAND: The scanner sweeps only those Preferential Scan Channels which are memo-rized on the same operating band as the first channel on which scanningstarted.PMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-XPMS-X: The scanner will sweep frequencies within the currently-selected PMS fre-quency pair. This is not a Preferential Memory Scan, see page ?? for details.3. Release the B key to start scanning.When there are no memory channels corresponding to the selected Memory Scanmode, the “MS ERRMS ERRMS ERRMS ERRMS ERR” notation will appear on the display.5. To cancel scanning, press the PTT switch or c key.MEMORY SCANNINGSCANNINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 61MEMORY BANK SCANWhen the Memory Bank feature is engaged, the scanner sweeps only memory channels inthe current Memory Bank. However, if the Memory Bank Link Scan feature is enabled,you may sweep the memory channels in several Memory Banks which you have selected.To enable the Memory Bank Link Scan feature:1. Set the radio to the Memory Recall (“MR”) mode by pressing the c key, if neces-sary.2. Press the B key to activate the “Memory Bank” mode.The “MRMRMRMRMR” indicator will be replaced by one of the MemoryBank numbers (“B 1B 1B 1B 1B 1” through “B24B24B24B24B24”).3. Press the f key followed by the B key. The MemoryBank number will begin to blink.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the first Memory Bank(“BANK 1BANK 1BANK 1BANK 1BANK 1” ~ “BANK24BANK24BANK24BANK24BANK24”) you wish to sweep using MemoryBank Link Scan.5. Press the c key briefly. A “B-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ON” notation will ap-pear for two seconds on the display, indicating this MemoryBank will now be swept during Memory Bank Scan.6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 above, to append the “B-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ON”notation to any other Memory Banks you wish to sweep.7. Press the B key.8. Now, press and hold in the B key for one second toinitiate the Memory Bank Link Scan.9. To remove a Memory Bank from the Memory Bank Link Scan, repeat steps 1 - 5above, to change the “B-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ONB-LINK ON” notation into “B-LINK OFFB-LINK OFFB-LINK OFFB-LINK OFFB-LINK OFF”.1) When the Memory Bank is enabled for MemoryBank scan, the Memory Bank number (“B x”) in-dication turns into “bx” (capital “B” turns intosmall “b”).2) You may enable/disable the Memory Bank scan via Set ModeItem 5: BANK LINK.MEMORY SCANNINGSCANNINGMEMORY BANK SCAN “DISABLED”FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL62PROGRAMMABLE (BAND LIMIT) MEMORY SCAN (PMS)This feature allows you to set sub-band limits for either scanning or manual VFO opera-tion. For example, you might wish to set up a limit (in North America) of 144.300 MHz to148.000 MHz to prevent encroachment into the SSB/CW “Weak Signal” portion of theband below 144.300 MHz. Here’s how to do this:1. Set the radio to the VFO mode by pressing the c key, if necessary.2. Using the techniques learned earlier, store (per the above concept) 144.300 MHz intoMemory Channel #L1L1L1L1L1 (the “L” designates the Lower sub-band limit).3. Likewise, store 146.000 MHz into Memory Channel #U1U1U1U1U1 (the “U” designates theUpper sub-band limit).4. Press and hold in the B key for one second and rotatethe DIAL knob while holding in the B key to select thedesired PMS frequency pair (PMSxxPMSxxPMSxxPMSxxPMSxx).5. Release the B key to start scanning within the just-pro-grammed range. The “VFOVFOVFOVFOVFO” label will be replaced by “PMSPMSPMSPMSPMS”and the Band number will be replaced by “PxxPxxPxxPxxPxx”. Tuningand scanning will now be limited within the just-pro-grammed range.6. 50 pairs of Band Limit memories, labeled L1L1L1L1L1/U1U1U1U1U1 through L50L50L50L50L50/U50U50U50U50U50 are available.You therefore can set upper and lower operation limits on a number of bands, if youlike.7. To exit to normal operation, press the c key.SCANNINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 63“PRIORITY CHANNEL” SCANNING (DUAL WATCH)The VX-8DR’s scanning features include a two-channel scanning capability which al-lows you to operate on a VFO or Memory channel, while periodically checking a user-defined Memory Channel for activity. If a station is received on the Memory Channelwhich is strong enough to open the Squelch, the scanner will pause on that station inaccordance with the Scan-Resume mode set via Menu Item 83: SCAN RESUME83: SCAN RESUME83: SCAN RESUME83: SCAN RESUME83: SCAN RESUME. Seepage 60.Here is the procedure for activating Priority Channel Dual Watch operation:1. Press the c key briefly to enter the Memory Recall (“MR”) mode, if you are notusing memories already.2. Press and hold in the f key for one second, then rotate the DIAL knob to select thememory channel you wish to be the “Priority” channel.3. Press the B key. The “PPPPP” icon will appear to the right ofthe “MRMRMRMRMR” label, indicating it is the Priority channel.4. Now set the VX-8GR for operation on another memorychannel, or on a VFO frequency.5. Press and hold in the c key for one second. The displaywill remain on the VFO or memory channel selected. How-ever, every five seconds the VX-8GR will check the Prior-ity Channel for activity. The “MRMRMRMRMR” label will be replaced by“MDWMDWMDWMDWMDW” while operating on the Memory channel or the “VFOVFOVFOVFOVFO” label will be replacedby “VDWVDWVDWVDWVDW” while operating on the VFO mode.6. If a station appears on the Priority Channel, the radio will pause on that channel, asdescribed previously.The receiving time interval (ratio) between the current channel (or VFO frequency) andPriority channel may be customized via Set Mode Item 67: PRI TIME67: PRI TIME67: PRI TIME67: PRI TIME67: PRI TIME.To set the receiving time interval:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 62: PRI TIME62: PRI TIME62: PRI TIME62: PRI TIME62: PRI TIME.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired time interval.Available selections are 0.1sec0.1sec0.1sec0.1sec0.1sec - 0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec (0.1sec/step) and1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec - 10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec (0.5sec/step).5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.The default condition for this Set Mode Item is “5.0sec”.SCANNINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL64PRIORITY REVERT MODEDuring Priority channel operation (Dual Watch), a special feature is available which willallow you to move to the Priority Channel instantly, without waiting for activity to appearon the Priority Channel.When this feature is enabled, and priority monitoring is engaged, just press the microphone’sPTT switch. Operation will instantly revert to the Priority Channel.To enable Priority Revert operation:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 66: PRI RE-66: PRI RE-66: PRI RE-66: PRI RE-66: PRI RE-VERTVERTVERTVERTVERT.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON”.5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.To disable Priority Revert operation, select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 4 above.“PRIORITY CHANNEL” SCANNING (DUAL WATCH)SCANNINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 65AUTOMATIC LAMP ILLUMINATION ON SCAN STOPThe VX-8GR will automatically illuminate the LCD Lamp whenever the scanner stops ona signal; this allows you to see the frequency of the incoming signal better at night. Notethat this will, of course, increase battery consumption, so be sure to switch it off during theday (the default condition for this feature is “ON”).The procedure for disabling the Scan Lamp is:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 75: SCAN75: SCAN75: SCAN75: SCAN75: SCANLAMPLAMPLAMPLAMPLAMP.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF”.5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.BAND EDGE BEEPERThe VX-8GR will automatically “beep” when a band edge is encountered during scan-ning (either in standard VFO scanning or during PMS operation). You may enable thisfeature (band edge beeper) when the frequency reaches the band edge while selecting theVFO frequency by the DIAL knob.The procedure for enabling the Band-Edge Beeper is:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 8: BEEP8: BEEP8: BEEP8: BEEP8: BEEPEDGEEDGEEDGEEDGEEDGE.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON”.5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.SCANNINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL66The VX-8GR allows the display of your position (Longitude/Latitude) with the built-inGPS Antenna Unit.1. Press the m key until the GPS screen appears.2. Press and hold in the m key for one second to enter the APRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Ratate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 18: GPS POWER18: GPS POWER18: GPS POWER18: GPS POWER18: GPS POWER.4. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this Set Mode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “GPS ON” (to activate the built-in GPS AntennaUnit).6. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.7. When the transceiver succeeds in receiving a valid GPSsignal,  your current position (Longitude/Latitude), currenttime (UTC), and altitude will appear on the display. Rotatethe DIAL knob (or press the a/b key) to scroll throughadditional lines of station text on the display.The received satellite number appears at the lower right ofcompasses (In the example at the right, it is 4 satellites).When receiving a signal from more than 3 satellites, the“” icon will appear on the display.Advice: 1) When the built-in GPS Antenna Unit is first turned on, it may take severalminutes to compute a fix of your position. This is normal, as the built-in GPS unit isdownloading “almanac” information from the GPS satellites.2) While the VX-8GR searches for a GPS signal, the compass icon does not appearon the display and the position information (Longitude/Latitude) blinks on the dis-play.3) If the VX-8GR does not receive a valid GPS signal after three minutes have passed,you may be in a poor location for satellite reception, such as inside of a house orbuilding; try moving to a less obstructed position.3. If you walk a few meters from your current location, yourcourse direction is displayed on the compass of the displayand walking speed is displayed in the “SPDSPDSPDSPDSPD” column of thedisplay.4. Press the M key to toggle the GPS screen between “North Up” and “Course Up”.The course direction displays a black arrow in the “North Up” screen, and displays awhite arrow in the “Course Up” screen.5. To return to normal operation, press the m key several times until the normal screenappears.1) When the VX-8DR GPS signal is interrupted; such as when you enter into atunnel, the compass icon disappears from the display but maintains the positioninformation (Longitude/Latitude) at the point where the GPS signal was lost.2) When the built-in GPS Antenna Unit is activated, the current consumption increasesGPS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 67approximately 40 mA. Therefore, battery life is reduced by approximately 20 % whenthe built-in GPS Antenna Unit is activated.3) You may memorize your current position as plotted by the GPS (up to ten points can besaved) via the APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 23: MY POSITION. See page xx for details.You may customize the Time Zone (Time Offset), Display Unit of the GPS screen, andGPS Datum for your own operating requirements via the APRS/GPS Set Mode.SETTING THE TIME ZONE (TIME OFFSET)Sets the time offset between your local time and UTC (Universal Time Coordinated orGMT: Greenwich Mean Time) shown on the display.1. Press the m key several times until the GPS screen ap-pears on the display.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 27: TIME27: TIME27: TIME27: TIME27: TIMEZONEZONEZONEZONEZONE.4. Press the m key briefly to enable selection of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the time offset from UTC.See illustration below to find your offset time from UTC. If“UTC +0:00UTC +0:00UTC +0:00UTC +0:00UTC +0:00” is assigned, the time is the same as UTC.6. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit from the APRS/GPS Set Mode.GPS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL68SELECTING THE DISPLAY UNITS OF THE GPS SCREEN1. Press the m key until the GPS screen appears.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 20: GPS20: GPS20: GPS20: GPS20: GPSUNITUNITUNITUNITUNIT.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the preferred unit for  “Posi-Posi-Posi-Posi-Posi-tiontiontiontiontion” (.MMM’.MMM’.MMM’.MMM’.MMM’ or ‘SS”‘SS”‘SS”‘SS”‘SS”).6. Press the b key to change the cursor to “SpeedSpeedSpeedSpeedSpeed”, thenrotate the DIAL knob to select the preferred unit (KmKmKmKmKm/hhhhh,mphmphmphmphmph, or KnotKnotKnotKnotKnot).7. Press the b key to change the cursor to “AltitudeAltitudeAltitudeAltitudeAltitude”, then rotate the DIAL knob toselect the preferred unit (mmmmm or ftftftftft).8. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting and exit from the APRS/GPS SetMode.SELECTING THE MAP DATUMWhile most operations (including APRS® operation) will utilize the default “WGS84”database of locations, you may use a different database.1. Press the m key until the GPS screen appears.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 17: GPS17: GPS17: GPS17: GPS17: GPSDATUMDATUMDATUMDATUMDATUM.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the database you wish touse. Available selections are WGS-84WGS-84WGS-84WGS-84WGS-84, Tokyo MeanTokyo MeanTokyo MeanTokyo MeanTokyo Mean, TokyoTokyoTokyoTokyoTokyoJapanJapanJapanJapanJapan, Tokyo KoreaTokyo KoreaTokyo KoreaTokyo KoreaTokyo Korea, and Tokyo OkinawaTokyo OkinawaTokyo OkinawaTokyo OkinawaTokyo Okinawa.6. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit from the APRS/GPS Set Mode.Do not change the Map Datum while the GPS/APRS (described next chapter) inin operation. The position indication will be incorrect.GPS OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 69NOTEFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL70The VX-8GR is equipped with a 1200/9600bps AX.25 Data Modem to enable APRS®(Automatic Packet Reporting System) operation. The Automatic Packet Reporting Sys-tem (APRS®) is a software program and registered trademark of Bob Bruninga, WB4APR.PREPARATIONSBefore performing any APRS® operations, set your callsign, symbol, and position (Lon-gitude/Latitude) into the VX-8GR, and activate the AX.25 Data Modem via the APRS/GPS Set Mode.1. Press the m key repeatedly until “STATION LIST” ap-pears on the display.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 22: MY22: MY22: MY22: MY22: MYCALLSIGNCALLSIGNCALLSIGNCALLSIGNCALLSIGN.4. Press the m key briefly to enable Callsign programming.5. Rotate the DIAL knob or press the appropriate keys on yourkeyboard to set the first letter or number in your callsign.Example 1: Rotate the DIAL knob to select any of the 37available characters.Example 2: Press the 9 key repeatedly to toggle amongthe five available characters associated with that key: W X  Y  Z  9  W ......6. Press the M key to move on to the next character, ifneeded.7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 as many times as necessary to com-plete your callsign.8. If you make a mistake, press the B key to backspacethe cursor and re-enter the correct letter/number.The callsign can consist of up to six characters. If yourcallsign is less than six characters, enter spaces into the re-maining digits.9. Press the M key to move on to the next position, thenrotate the DIAL knob to select the SSID (Secondary StationIdentifier) if desired (see next page).10. When you have completed entering your callsign and SSID,press the m key briefly to save the new setting.11. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 24: MY SYM-24: MY SYM-24: MY SYM-24: MY SYM-24: MY SYM-BOLBOLBOLBOLBOL.12. Press the   key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.APRS® OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 7113. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired one of the threepreset icons. To choose another icon,  press the B key,then rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired symbol afterhaving selected the preset icon. When you have completedselecting the icon, press the B key again. You maychoose 1 of 46 different symbols.14. Press the m key briefly to save the new setting.15. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 25:25:25:25:25:POSITION COMMENTPOSITION COMMENTPOSITION COMMENTPOSITION COMMENTPOSITION COMMENT.16. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment ofthis Set Mode Item.17. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired comment.18. Press the m key briefly to save the new setting.19. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 23: MY23: MY23: MY23: MY23: MYPOSITIONPOSITIONPOSITIONPOSITIONPOSITION.20. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.21. If you enter your position (Longitude/Latitude) manuallywithout using the built-in GPS receiver, perform the fol-lowing procedures. Otherwise, select “GPSGPSGPSGPSGPS” by rotating theDIAL knob and advance to the step 22.APRS® OPERATIONPREPARATIONSSSIDNon-1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15DETAILSHome Station, Home Station IGateDigipeaterDigipeaterDigipeaterHF to VHF GatewayIGate (not Home Station)Operation via SatelliteHand-held Transceiver, such as VX-8DRMaritime MobileMobileOperation via InternetAPRS touch-tone User (and the Occasional Balloons)Portable Units, such as Laptops, Camp Sites etc.Not UsedTrackersHF OperationSSID LISTFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL721) Select “LatLatLatLatLat” by rotating the DIAL knob.2) Press the M key to enable entering of yourlatitude using the Decimal system.3) Use the B and M keys to navigation toeach column and then use the DIAL knob to select thedesired numbers in each column. Repeat for eachcolumn to complete your latitude entry.4) Move the cursor to “LatLatLatLatLat” using the B/Mkey and then rotate the DIAL knob one click clock-wise to select “LonLonLonLonLon”. Enter your longitude using the sameprocedure as described above, then advance to the nextstep.22. Press the m key briefly to save the new setting.23. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 3: APRS3: APRS3: APRS3: APRS3: APRSMODEMMODEMMODEMMODEMMODEM.24. Press the M key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.25. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “1200bps1200bps1200bps1200bps1200bps” (to activate theAX.25 modem).26. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit from the APRS/GPS Set Mode.You may memorize your current position as plotted by the GPS (up to ten pointscan be saved). See page xx for details.The VX-8GR provides many convenient functions for the APRS operation. Refer to the“APRS/GPS Set Mode” chapter beginning with page xx for details.APRS® OPERATIONPREPARATIONSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 73RECEIVING AN APRS BEACON1. Set the “B-Band” to the APRS frequency. 144.390 MHz is generally used in NorthAmerica. If you don’t know the APRS frequency of your country, ask your dealer.The AX.25 modem cannot be activated in the “A-Band”.2. Disable the Receiver Battery Saver via the Set Mode Item 73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX.When the Receiver Battery Saver is turned on, the VX-8GR can not reliably receivean APRS Beacon.3. When receive the APRS beacon, the alert beep will emit.4. Press the m key several times until the “STATION LIST”screen appears on the display. The “STATION LIST” screenwill save up to 50 stations. And the “STATION LIST” screensorts each station according to the received time.5. To confirm the details of the received beacon, rotate theDIAL knob (or press the a/b keys) to select the de-sired station, then press the B key. The “Received Dataand Time”, “Distance and Direction of the station”, and otherinformation will be displayed.When the “Status Text” is included in the Mic Encoder Sta-tion Beacon, the “ ” icon appears at the upper right cornerof the display.6. Rotate the DIAL knob (or press the a/b keys) to scrollthrough additional lines or pages of the received informa-tion.7. Press the M key to display the “Raw” data of the received APRS beacon.8. When the confirmation is finished, press the B key to return to the STATIONLIST screen.When the VX-8GR GPS signalis interrupted;such as when you enter intoa tunnel, the display main-tains the direction on thecompass icon, distance to thereceived station and the po-sition information (Longi-tude/Latitude) at the pointwhere the GPS signal waslost.APRS® OPERATIONSTATION LIST CHARACTERSTATION LIST CHARACTERRECEIVED DATE & TIMESTATUS TEXT “FLAG”DISTANCE TO THE RECEIVED STATIONDIRECTION TO THE RECEIVED STATIONCHARACTEREEmgPpWwOoIiKkS?DETAILSMic-E: Mic Encoder StationMic-E: Mic Encoder Station (Emergency Beacon)Position (Fixed/Moving) StationPosition (Fixed/Moving) Station (Compressed Data)Weather StationWeather Station (Compressed Data)Object StationObject Station (Compressed Data)Item StationItem Station (Compressed Data)Killed StationKilled Station (Compressed Data)Status StationOther Station (Include Non-Decoding Station)STATION LIST CHARACTERFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL74Deleting a Received Beacon from the “STATION LIST”1. Press the m key several times until the STATION LISTscreen appears on the display.2. Rotate the DIAL knob (or press the a/b keys) to se-lect the beacon station to be deleted.3. Press the c key. The confirmation message (DELETE?DELETE?DELETE?DELETE?DELETE?)will appear on the display. Press the c key once more,the selected beacon station will be deleted from the STA-TION LIST.APRS® OPERATIONRECEIVING AN APRS BEACONEMERGENCY COMMENT Set                x 3 timesEMERGENCY COMMENT Received                  x 12 timesBEACON Received (@Filter “ON”)BEACON Received (@Filter “OFF”)OWN BEACON (MY POSITION) ReceivedAPRS ALERT BEEP LISTMESSAGE ReceivedGROUP/BULLETIN MESSAGE ReceivedMESSAGE ACK ReceivedMESSAGE REJ ReceivedFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 75APRS FILTER SETTINGThe APRS filter option allows you to receive only specified types of the data.1. Press the m key several times until the STATION LISTscreen appears on the display.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 2: APRS2: APRS2: APRS2: APRS2: APRSFILTERFILTERFILTERFILTERFILTER.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Press the a/b key to select the “Filter” you wish toexclude, then rotate the DIAL knob to select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF”.6. Repeat above steps and select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” to any other filters youwish to exclude.7. When you have completed your selection, press the PTT switch to save the newsetting and exit to the STATION LIST screen.APRS® OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL76APRS® OPERATIONTRANSMIT AN APRS BEACONTo transmit your APRS Beacon, just press the d key.The VX-8GR allows you to transmit your APRS Beacon automatically and repeatedly viathe APRS/GPS Set Mode.1. Press the m key several times until the STATION LISTscreen appears on the display.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 14: BEA-14: BEA-14: BEA-14: BEA-14: BEA-CON TXCON TXCON TXCON TXCON TX.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired “Auto” beaconmode.MANUALMANUALMANUALMANUALMANUAL: Disable Automatic Transmission.AUTOAUTOAUTOAUTOAUTO: Enable Automatic Transmission.Transmits your APRS beacon in accordance with the interval determinedby Set Mode Item 12: BEACON INTERVAL12: BEACON INTERVAL12: BEACON INTERVAL12: BEACON INTERVAL12: BEACON INTERVAL.SMARTSMARTSMARTSMARTSMART: Enable Automatic Transmission.Transmits your APRS beacon in accordance with the interval determinedby Set Mode Item 26: SmartBeaconing26: SmartBeaconing26: SmartBeaconing26: SmartBeaconing26: SmartBeaconing. This selection does not appearunless Set Mode Item 26: SmartBeaconing26: SmartBeaconing26: SmartBeaconing26: SmartBeaconing26: SmartBeaconing is activated. See page ??? fordetails.6. Press the m key briefly, then rotate the DIAL knobto select Set Mode Item 12: BEACON INTERVAL12: BEACON INTERVAL12: BEACON INTERVAL12: BEACON INTERVAL12: BEACON INTERVAL.7. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment ofthis Set Mode Item.8. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired interval time.9. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and exit to theSTATION LIST screen.When the APRS Beacon mode is set to “AUTOAUTOAUTOAUTOAUTO”, the “” iconwill appear at the upper left corner of the display. Similarly,when the APRS Beacon mode is set to “SMARTSMARTSMARTSMARTSMART”, the “”icon will appear at the upper left corner of the display.1) You may toggle the APRS Beacon mode between “MANUAL”, “AUTO”,and “SMART” by pressing the M key.2) When the APRS frequency is busy (Squelch is opened), the VX-8GR will nottransmit an APRS Beacon in manual or automatic modes. Insure that the squelch is closed.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 77You may store five Status Text Messages (up to the 60 characters for each memory), andyou may transmit one of these Status Text Messages with the APRS Beacon.1. Press the m key several times until the STATION LISTscreen appears on the display.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 13: BEA-13: BEA-13: BEA-13: BEA-13: BEA-CON STATS TXTCON STATS TXTCON STATS TXTCON STATS TXTCON STATS TXT.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Status Text register(11111 - 55555) you wish to store data to.6. Press the M key briefly to begin comment entry into theselected resister.7. Rotate the DIAL knob (or press the keyboard) to select thefirst character of the comment.8. Press the M key to move to the next character.9. Repeat steps 6 and 7 to program the remainder of the com-ment.10. If you make a mistake, press the B key to back-space the cursor, then re-enter thecorrect character.11. You may add/delete a character to a comment using the following technique.1) If you want to clear any previous comments, press the a/b key to select the“ALL CLEARALL CLEARALL CLEARALL CLEARALL CLEAR” then press the c key.2) If you want to delete a previously-stored comment after the cursor, press thea/b key to select “CLEARCLEARCLEARCLEARCLEAR” then press the c key.3) If you want to add a character, press the a/b key to select “INSERTINSERTINSERTINSERTINSERT” thenpress the c key.Note: Some transceivers cannot receive the full 60-character message. We recom-mend that you make the message as short as possible.12. When you have completed your entry, press the PTT switch to save the new settingand exit to the STATION LIST screen.APRS® OPERATIONTRANSMIT AN APRS BEACONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL78TRANSMIT AN APRS BEACONDIGIPEATER PATH SETTINGThe VX-8GR allows you to set up to eight digipeaters for the APRS Packet Path.The VX-8GR is preset to “WIDE1-1” and “WIDE1-1, WIDE2-1” digi-path to insure thatyour transmitted APRS Beacon is repeated by the new-N paradigm digipeaters. We rec-ommend that you use this setting by default.1. Press the m key several times until the STATION LISTscreen appears on the display.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 16: DIGI16: DIGI16: DIGI16: DIGI16: DIGIPATHPATHPATHPATHPATH.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Pass Number (P1P1P1P1P1 - P8P8P8P8P8)you wish to set.6. Press the M key briefly to begin callsign entry into theselected path.7. Rotate the DIAL knob (or press the keyboard) to select the first character of the callsign(with SSID) of the digipeater.8. Press the M key to move to the next character.9. Repeats steps 7 and 8 to program the remainder of the callsign.10. If you make a mistake, press the B key to backspace the cursor, then re-enter thecorrect character.11. When you have completed your entry, press the PTT switch to save the new settingand exit to the STATION LIST screen.APRS® OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 79RECEIVING AN APRS MESSAGE1. Set the “B-Band” to the APRS frequency. 144.390 MHz is generally used in NorthAmerica. If you don’t know the APRS frequency for your country, ask your dealer.The AX.25 modem is not activated in the “A-Band”.2. Disable the Receiver Battery Saver from Set Mode Item 73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX.When the Receiver Battery Saver is turned on, the VX-8GR cannot reliably receiveAPRS Messages.3. When receive the APRS message, the alert beep will emit and white LED will blink.4. Press the m key several times until the APRS MESSAGEscreen appears on the display.The APRS MESSAGE screen stores up to 30 messages.The messages are sorted according to the time the stationmessage is received. The latest message is stored into thefirst message slot (First-in, First-out format).5. To confirm the received message, rotate the DIAL knob (orpress the a/b keys) to select the desired message, thenpress the B key.6. Rotate the DIAL knob (or press the a/b keys) to scroll through additional linesor pages of the received stations message.7. Press the M key to display the receive message “Raw” data.8. When you have finished reading your message, press the B key to return to theAPRS MESSAGE screen.1) You may change the alert beep tone via APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 8:APRS RINGER MSG.2) You may change the blinking mode of the while LED via APRS/GPS SetMode Item 4: APRS MSG FLASH.3) You may work the Vibrator function via APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 6: APRS MSGVIBRAT when receive an APRS message.Delete the Received Message from the “APRS MESSAGE” Screen1. Press the m key several times until the APRSMESSAGE screen appears on the display.2. Rotate the DIAL knob (or press the a/b keys)to select the message to be deleted.3. Press the c key. The confirmation message (DELETE?DELETE?DELETE?DELETE?DELETE?)will appear on the display. Press the c key oncemore and the selected message will be deleted fromthe APRS MESSAGE screen.APRS® OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL80MESSAGE GROUP SETTINGThe Message Group option allows you to choose to receive only specific types of messageinformation.1. Press the m key several times until the APRS MESSAGEscreen appears on the display.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 21: MSG21: MSG21: MSG21: MSG21: MSGGROUPGROUPGROUPGROUPGROUP.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Press the a/b key to select the “Group” you wish toutilize (G1 ALLG1 ALLG1 ALLG1 ALLG1 ALL, G2 CQG2 CQG2 CQG2 CQG2 CQ, G3 QSTG3 QSTG3 QSTG3 QSTG3 QST, or G4 YAESUG4 YAESUG4 YAESUG4 YAESUG4 YAESU).6. If you add a new message group code and/or bulletin groupcode, select “G5G5G5G5G5” (for message group code) or “B1B1B1B1B1” ~ “B3B3B3B3B3”(for bulletin group code) by rotating the DIAL knob, then press the M key.7. Use the M and B keys to navigate to each column, then use the DIAL knob toselect the desired characters/numbers in each column. Repeat for each column tocomplete the message (up to 9 characters) or bulletin (up to 5 characters).8. When you have completed your selection, press the PTT switch to save the newsetting and exit to the APRS MESSAGE screen.APRS® OPERATIONRECEIVING AN APRS MESSAGEFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 81APRS® OPERATIONTRANSMIT AN APRS MESSAGE1. Press the m key several times until the APRS MESSAGEscreen appears on the display.2. Press the h key to enter the “EDIT” mode.3. Any previously stored message may be cleared using thefollowing procedures.1) Press the B key2) Press the a/b key to select the “ALL CLEARALL CLEARALL CLEARALL CLEARALL CLEAR”.3) Press the c key.4. Enter the callsign (with SSID) of the station you wish tocontact using the B/M key pad (select the cursor) orturn the DIAL knob (select the number/letter).5. When you have completed entering the callsign (and SSID),press the M key briefly.6. Enter the message using the B/M key pad (selectthe cursor) or turn the DIAL knob (select the number/let-ter). Available length is up to 67 characters. You may add/delete a message/character using the following procedure.a. If you want to add a previously stored message (determined through APRS/GPSSet Mode item 5: APRS MSG TXT5: APRS MSG TXT5: APRS MSG TXT5: APRS MSG TXT5: APRS MSG TXT; see next page), press the a/b key toselect the “MSG TXT 1MSG TXT 1MSG TXT 1MSG TXT 1MSG TXT 1” through “MSG TXT 5MSG TXT 5MSG TXT 5MSG TXT 5MSG TXT 5” then press the c key.b. If you want to delete the message after the cursor, press the a/b key toselect “CLEARCLEARCLEARCLEARCLEAR” then press the c key.c. If you want to add a character, press the a/b key to select “INSERTINSERTINSERTINSERTINSERT” thenpress the c key.7. When the message entry is complete, press the d key totransmit the message and return to the APRS MESSAGEscreen. The transmitted message is stored into the APRSMESSAGE screen.8. When an acknowledgment packet (“ack”) is received, thebeeper will sound and “” icon will appear on the display.If an acknowledgment packet (“ack”) is not received, theAPRS message is transmitted repeatedly five times, onceeach minute.9. The remaining number of transmissions of the message is shown on the display. Whenthere is no acknowledgment packet(“ack”) even if the APRS messagetransmits five times, the “” (pe-riod) icon (on the APRS MES-SAGE screen) or “TXOUTTXOUTTXOUTTXOUTTXOUT” notation (on the Detailed Message screen) will appear onFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL82APRS® OPERATIONTRANSMIT AN APRS MESSAGEthe display, instead of the remain-ing number of transmissions.You may select the num-bers and letters for thecallsign and message with the key buttons (1 through 9, and 0) in thesame way as labeling memories.STORE THE FIXED FORM MESSAGEThe VX-8GR allows you to store five fixed form messages (up to 16 characters for eachmessage).1. Press the m key several times until the APRS MESSAGEscreen appears on the display.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter theAPRS/GPS Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 5: APRS5: APRS5: APRS5: APRS5: APRSMSG TXTMSG TXTMSG TXTMSG TXTMSG TXT.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Message register (11111 - 55555)you wish to store your message to.6. Press the M key briefly to begin message entry into theselected resister.7. Rotate the DIAL knob (or press the keyboard) to select thefirst character of the message.8. Press the M key to move to the next character.9. Repeats steps 7 and 8 to program the remainder of the mes-sage.10. If you make a mistake, press the B key to backspacethe cursor and re-enter the correct character.11. When you have completed your message entry, press the PTT switch to save the newsetting and exit to the APRS MESSAGE screen.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 83The ARTSTM feature uses DCS signaling to inform both parties when you and anotherARTSTM-equipped station are within communications range. This may be particularlyuseful during Search-and Rescue situations, where it is important to stay in contact withother members of your group.Both stations must set up their DCS codes to the same code number, then activate theirARTSTM feature using the command appropriate for their radio. Alert ringers may beactivated, if desired.Whenever you push the PTT, or every 25 (or 15) seconds afterARTSTM is activated, your radio will transmit a signal whichincludes a (subaudible) DCS signal for about 1 second. If theother radio is in range, the beeper will sound (if enabled) andthe display will show “IN RNGIN RNGIN RNGIN RNGIN RNG” as opposed to the out of rangedisplay “OUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNG” in which ARTSTM operation begins.Whether you talk or not, the polling every 15 or 25 seconds willcontinue until you de-activate ARTSTM. Every 10 minutes, more-over, you can have your radio transmit your callsign via CW, to comply with identifica-tion requirements. When ARTSTM is de-activated, DCS will also be deactivated (if youwere not using it previously in non-ARTSTM operation).If you move out of range for more than one minute (four pollings), your radio will sensethat no signal has been received, three beeps will sound, and the display will revert to“OUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNG”. If you move back into range, your radio will again beep, and the display willchange back to the “IN RNGIN RNGIN RNGIN RNGIN RNG” indication.During ARTSTM operation, your operating frequency will continue to be displayed, but nochanges may be made to it or other settings; you must terminate ARTSTM in order toresume normal operation. This is a safety feature designed to prevent accidental loss ofcontact due to channel change, etc.ARTSTM (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL84BASIC ARTSTM SETUP AND OPERATION1. Set your radio and the other radio(s) to the same DCS code number, per the discussionon page ??.2. Press the f key, then press the 4 key. You will observethe “OUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNGOUTRNG” display on the LCD below the operatingfrequency. ARTSTM operation has now commenced.3. Every 25 seconds, your radio will transmit a “polling” callto the other station. When that station responds with its ownARTSTM polling signal, the display will change to “IN RNGIN RNGIN RNGIN RNGIN RNG”to confirm that the other station’s polling code was receivedin response to yours.4. Press the 4 key to exit ARTSTM operation and resume normal functioning of thetransceiver.ARTSTM won’t work if you have used the Lock feature to disable the PTT!ARTSTM POLLING TIME OPTIONSThe ARTSTM feature may be programmed to poll every 25 seconds (default value) or 15seconds. The default value provides maximum battery conservation, because the pollingsignal is sent out less frequently. To change the polling interval:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 4: ARTS4: ARTS4: ARTS4: ARTS4: ARTSINTERVALINTERVALINTERVALINTERVALINTERVAL.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired polling interval(25sec25sec25sec25sec25sec or 15sec15sec15sec15sec15sec).5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.ARTSTM (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 85ARTSTM ALERT BEEP OPTIONSThe ARTSTM feature allows two kinds of alert beeps (with the additional option of turningthem off), to alert you to the current status of ARTSTM operation. Depending on yourlocation and the potential annoyance associated with frequent beeps, you may choose theBeep mode which best suits your needs. The choices are:IN RANGEIN RANGEIN RANGEIN RANGEIN RANGE: The beeps are issued only when the radio first confirms that you arewithin range, but does not re-confirm with beeps thereafter.ALWAYSALWAYSALWAYSALWAYSALWAYS: Every time a polling transmission is received from the other station, thealert beeps will be heard.OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF: No alert beeps will be heard; you must look at the display to confirmcurrent ARTSTM status.To set the ARTSTM Beep mode, use the following procedure:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 3: ARTS3: ARTS3: ARTS3: ARTS3: ARTSBEEPBEEPBEEPBEEPBEEP.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired ARTS Beep mode(see above).5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.ARTSTM (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL86CW IDENTIFIER SETUPThe ARTSTM feature includes a CW identifier, as discussed previously. Every ten minutesduring ARTSTM operation, the radio can be instructed to send “DE (your callsign) K” ifthis feature is enabled. The callsign field may contain up to 16 characters.Here is how to program the CW Identifier:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 16: CW ID16: CW ID16: CW ID16: CW ID16: CW ID.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON” (to activate the CWID function).5. Press the M key to enable programming your callsign.Press and hold the h key for two seconds to clear anyprevious callsign, if desired.6. Rotate the DIAL knob or press the keyboard to set the firstletter or number in your callsign.Example 1: Rotate the DIAL knob to select any of the 37available characters.Example 2: Press the 9 key repeatedly to toggle amongthe five available characters associated withthat key: W  X  Y  Z  9  W .....7. Press the M key to move on to the next character, ifneeded.8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 as many times as necessary to com-plete your callsign. Note that the “slant bar” (– • • – •) isamong the available characters, should you be a “portable”station.9. Press and hold the h key for two seconds to delete all data after the cursor that mayhave been previously stored.10. If you make a mistake, press the B key to backspace the cursor, then re-enter thecorrect letter/number.11. When you have entered your entire callsign, press the mkey briefly to confirm the callsign, then press the PTT switchto save the settings and exit to normal operation.1) You may check your work by monitoring the entered callsign. To do this,repeat steps 1 - 3 above, then press the f key.2) You may adjust the monitoring tone (CW sidetone pitch) via Set ModeItem 18: CW PITCH. Available selections are 400 - 1000 Hz (50 Hz/step).ARTSTM (AUTOMATIC RANGE TRANSPONDER SYSTEM)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 87The Spectrum Analyzer allows viewing operating activity on channels above or below thecurrent operating channel in the VFO mode.The display indicates the relative signal strength on channels immediately adjacent to thecurrent operating frequency.The Spectrum Analyzer feature can be activated only while the VX-8GR is in the “Mono”band operation.Three basic operating modes for the Spectrum Analyzer are available:1Time1Time1Time1Time1Time: In this mode, the transceiver sweeps the current band once.CONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUS: In this mode, the transceiver sweeps the current band repeatedly until thec key is pressed, or the Spectrum Analyzer is turned off.Full TimeFull TimeFull TimeFull TimeFull Time: This mode is activated similar to a “CONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUS” mode. However, thetransceiver outputs the audio of the center frequency () from a speakerwhen the Spectrum Analyzer is activated between 108 ~ ??? MHz.SETTING UP THE SPECTRUM ANALYZER MODE:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 84: SPEC-84: SPEC-84: SPEC-84: SPEC-84: SPEC-ANALYZERANALYZERANALYZERANALYZERANALYZER.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Spectrum Ana-lyzer mode (see above).5. Press the PTT switch momentarily to save the new settingand exit to normal operation.TO ACTIVATE THE SPECTRUM ANALYZER:1. Set the radio to the VFO mode in the “Mono” band operation.2. Press the f key, then press the 8 key to activate theSpectrum Analyzer.3. When the Spectrum Analyzer is activated, press the a orb key to change the visible bandwidth. Available selec-tions are ±5, ±9, ±16, ±24, and ±50 channels (default: ±16 channels). The visiblebandwidth, however, depends on the selected channel step size, so match the defaultchannel steps with the amateur band you are using.4. To turn the Spectrum Analyzer off and operate on the center (displayed) channel,press the c key to stop the sweep, if needed, then press the f key followed by8 key.SPECTRUM ANALYZER OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL88The Smart Search feature allows you to load frequencies automatically according to whereactivity is encountered by your radio. When Smart Search is engaged, the transceiver willsearch above and below your current frequency, storing active frequencies as it goes (with-out stopping on them even briefly); these frequencies are stored into a special Smart Searchmemory band, consisting of 31 memories (15 above the current frequency, 15 below thecurrent frequency, plus the current frequency itself).Two basic operating modes for Smart Search are available:SINGLESINGLESINGLESINGLESINGLE: In this mode, the transceiver will sweep the current band once in eachdirection starting on the current frequency. All channels where activity ispresent will be loaded into the Smart Search memories; whether or notall 31 memories are filled, the search will stop after one sweep in eachdirection.CONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUSCONTINUOUS: In this mode, the transceiver will make one pass in each direction as withOne-Shot searching; if all 31 channels are not filled after the first sweep,however, the radio will continue sweeping until they are all filled.The Smart Search feature can only be activated while the VX-8GR is operatingin the Mono band mode.SETTING THE SMART SEARCH MODE1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 82: SMART82: SMART82: SMART82: SMART82: SMARTSEARCHSEARCHSEARCHSEARCHSEARCH.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Smart Searchmode (see above).5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.STORING SMART SEARCH MEMORIES1. Set the radio to the VFO mode in the “Mono” band mode. Be sure that you have theSquelch adjusted properly (so that band noise is quieted).2. Press and hold the M key until the “SMART SEARCHSMART SEARCHSMART SEARCHSMART SEARCHSMART SEARCH”notation will appear.3. Press and hold the B key for one second to begin theChannel Counter.4. As active channels are detected, you will observe the number of “loaded” channelsincreasing in the regular memory channel window.5. Depending on the mode you set for Smart Search operation (“SINGLE” or “CON-TINUOUS”), the Smart Search scan will eventually terminate, and the LCD will re-SMART SEARCH OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 89vert to Smart Search Memory Channel “CNTCNTCNTCNTCNT.”6. To recall the Smart Search memories, rotate the DIAL tochoose from among the Smart Search memories.7. To return to normal operation, press the   key.Smart Search is a great tool when visiting a city for the first time. You don’tneed to spend hours looking up repeater frequencies from a referenceguidebook…just ask your VX-8GR where the action is!SMART SEARCH OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL90GENERALThe VX-8GR provides a message feature, which sends a message (up to 16 characters)instead of sending a voice. 20 different messages can be programmed, any one of themcan be selected and transmitted with your ID.NoteThe Message Feature requires that all members (1) use the Yaesu VX-8GR,VX-8DR, VX-8R, VX-3R, FTM-10R/SR or FTM-350R transceiver, (2) storethe same messages into the message slots, (3) store the same member list intothe member box, and (4) set the same frequency.Does not send the Message through a repeater.PROGRAMMING A MESSAGE(Requires all members set the same messages into the same message slots in the sameorder.)The VX-8GR has 20 message slots, including a factory-programmed message (EMER-GENCY). The factory-programmed message of course can be overwritten at any timewith personalized messages.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 54: MES-54: MES-54: MES-54: MES-54: MES-SAGE SELECTSAGE SELECTSAGE SELECTSAGE SELECTSAGE SELECT.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Message slotinto which you wish to store a message. The LCD displaysthe previously stored message.5. Press the M key briefly to enable programming of themessage.6. Press and hold in the h key for one second to clear thepreviously stored message, if desired.7. Rotate the DIAL knob or press the keyboard to set the firstcharacter of the message you wish to store.Example 1: Rotate the DIAL knob to select any of the 61available characters.Example 2: Press the 2 key repeatedly to toggle amongthe four available characters associated with thatkey: a  b  c  A  B  C  2  a .....8. Press the M key to move on to the next character, ifneeded.MESSAGE FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 919. Repeat steps 7 and 8 above to complete the message (up to16 characters). If you make a mistake, press the B keyto move back to the incorrect character, then re-enter thecorrect character.10. Press and hold in the h key for one second to delete all data after the cursor thatmay have been previously stored.11. When the Message entry is complete, press the m keybriefly to save the new setting.12. If you wish to store another message, repeat steps 3 through11 above.13. Press the PTT switch to exit to normal operation.PROGRAMMING A MEMBER LIST(Requires all members set the same member list (includes own ID) into the same memberbox in the same order.)It is possible to register a maximum of 20 persons, in order to identify the sender.  Whenyou receive a message transfer, you will know who sent the message by the ID in theregister. In addition, your ID can be sent to the members when you transmit any messagesto them.If all the members share the register information (ID), the message sender ID will beshown on the display when receiving the message.Even if no IDs are registered, the message function can work. However, in this case,“MESSAGE1MESSAGE1MESSAGE1MESSAGE1MESSAGE1” though “MESSAGE20MESSAGE20MESSAGE20MESSAGE20MESSAGE20” will be displayed when receiving a message.We recommend that you use your call sign for the member list.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 52: MES-52: MES-52: MES-52: MES-52: MES-SAGE LISTSAGE LISTSAGE LISTSAGE LISTSAGE LIST.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired member box (11111~ 2020202020) into which you wish to store a member ID. The LCDwill display the previously stored personal ID.5. Press the M key briefly to enable programming of thepersonal ID.6. Press and hold in the h key for two seconds to clear thepreviously stored personal ID, if desired.7. Rotate the DIAL knob or press the keyboard to set the firstMESSAGE FEATUREPROGRAMMING A MESSAGEFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL92character of the message you wish to store.Example 1: Rotate the DIAL knob to select any of the 61available characters.Example 2: Press the 7 key repeatedly to toggle amongthe nine available characters associated with that key: p  q  r  s P  Q  R  S  7  p .....8. Press the M key to move on to the next character, ifneeded.9. Repeat steps 7 and 8 above to complete the personal ID (upto 8 characters). If you make a mistake, press the B keyto move back to the incorrect character, then re-enter the correct character.10. Press and hold in the h key for two seconds to delete all data after the cursor thatmay have been previously stored.11. When the personal ID entry is complete, press the m keybriefly to save the new setting.12. If you wish to store another personal ID, repeat steps 3through 10 above.13. Press the PTT switch to exit to normal operation.SET YOUR PERSONAL IDYou may choose your personal ID from the member list as follows.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 53: MES-53: MES-53: MES-53: MES-53: MES-SAGE REGISTERSAGE REGISTERSAGE REGISTERSAGE REGISTERSAGE REGISTER.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the member box (11111 ~ 2020202020)where your ID is stored.5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.MESSAGE FEATUREPROGRAMMING A MEMBER LISTFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 93SENDING A MESSAGEThe registered message can be sent to the members who are receiving on the coordinationfrequency. When a message is sent, the transmitter’s ID will be sent also, and the receivercan identify who sent the message.The “Personal ID” setting (described in the previous paragraph) is required forthe transmitter’s ID to be shown with the received message.1. Set the radio to the coordination frequency.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 54: MES-54: MES-54: MES-54: MES-54: MES-SAGE SELECTSAGE SELECTSAGE SELECTSAGE SELECTSAGE SELECT.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Message slotyou wish to send.6. Press the PTT switch to exit to normal operation.7. Press the f key, then press the M key. This provides a“Short-cut” to Menu Item 88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE.8. Rotate the DIAL knob until “MESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGE” appears on thedisplay; this activates the Message feature.9. Press the PTT switch to exit from the Menu mode and acti-vate the Message feature. When the Message feature is ac-tivated, the “MSGMSGMSGMSGMSG” notation will appear on the display.10. Press the PTT switch again (without speaking into the mi-crophone) to transmit the selected message on the coordina-tion frequency. It takes approximately 6 seconds to transmit the message.MESSAGE FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL94MESSAGE FEATURERECEIVING A MESSAGE1. Set the radio to the coordination frequency.2. Press the f key, then press the M key. This provides a“Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE88: SQL TYPE.3. Rotate the DIAL knob until “MESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGEMESSAGE” appears on thedisplay; this activates the Message feature.4. Press the PTT switch to exit from the Set Mode and acti-vate the Message feature. When the Message feature is ac-tivated, the “MSGMSGMSGMSGMSG” notation will appear on the display.5. When you receive a message: a beep sounds, the LED lightblinks white, and [“Message” FROMFROMFROMFROMFROM “sending station’s ID”] scrolls on the display.6. Press any key (except g key) to clear the received message, and wait for a newmessage.To disable the Message feature, repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob toselect “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 3 above.If you enable the CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Bell feature or CTCSS/DCS/EPCSVibrator Operation (described previously), you can tell that you are receiv-ing a message by the ringing “bell” sound alert or vibrating the transceiver.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 95EMERGENCY CHANNEL OPERATIONThe VX-8GR includes an “Emergency” feature, which may be useful if you have some-one monitoring on the same frequency as your transceiver’s UHF “Home” channel. Seepage ?? for details on setting the Home channel.The “Emergency” feature is activated by pressing and holding in the h key for onesecond.When this is done, (A) the radio is placed on the UHF amateur band Home channel, (B) itemits a loud “Alarm” sound (the volume is controlled by rotating the DIAL knob whilepressing and holding the g key), (C) it flashes the LED light in white, (D) if you pressthe PTT switch, you will disable the Emergency feature temporarily. You can then trans-mit on the UHF Home channel, and (E) two seconds after the PTT switch release, theEmergency feature will resume.To disable the “Emergency” feature, press and hold the h key for one second or turn theradio Off by pressing and holding in the p(PWR) switch for one second.Use this feature if you are out for a walk and want a quick way of alerting a familymember to a dangerous situation. The alarm sound may discourage an attacker and allowyou to escape.1) Be sure to arrange with a friend or family member to be monitoring on thesame frequency, as there will be no identification sent via the Emergencyalarm sound. And do not transmit the alarm tone except in a true emergency!2) The LED light may be changed to another function via Set Mode Item 29: EMER-GENCY SELECT; see page xx.EMERGENCY FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL96EMERGENCY FEATUREEMERGENCY AUTOMATIC ID (EAI) FEATUREThe Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) feature can be used to aid in searching for personswho are incapacitated in disasters like earthquakes, especially search-and-rescue person-nel who may have become injured in a debris field. When using the EAI feature, a searchertransmits a unique command (CTCSS tone pair), which will automatically cause the in-jured party’s radio to transmit, so others may perform direction-finding and effect a res-cue. The incapacitated party may not be able to speak or even press the PTT switch. Thecallsign of the incapacitated person will also be transmitted, to assist the rescue team.If an emergency group is working in a dangerous area, all members should engage theEAI feature on their transceiver, so that others can assist a fallen team member, if neces-sary.The Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) Feature has two operating modes: (1) Interval modeand (2) Continuous mode.In the Interval mode (when the VX-8GR receives the CTCSS tone pair), the radio willautomatically transmit a brief (0.5 second) beep tone every 2.5 seconds until the EAItimer expiration.In the continuous mode, the radio will automatically transmit continuously (with maxi-mum microphone gain), until the EAI timer expiration.The EIA is activated when the CTCSS tone pair stored in the Receiving Pager Code Memory(configured via Set Mode Item 62: PAGE CODE-RX62: PAGE CODE-RX62: PAGE CODE-RX62: PAGE CODE-RX62: PAGE CODE-RX) is received for 5 seconds on thefrequency, which is stored in Memory Channel “EAIEAIEAIEAIEAI”. It is NOT necessary for the inca-pacitated person to press the PTT switch.If your call sign is stored in the radio and the CW identifier is enabled via Set Mode Item16: CW ID16: CW ID16: CW ID16: CW ID16: CW ID, the radio will transmit your callsign on the air when the EAI feature is firstactivated by the remote page, and every 10 minutes thereafter. The “callsign” ID can bechanged to any desired sequence of characters, such as a name. After sending the callsignor name, the radio will repeatedly transmit three tones for a user-defined period of time(between 1 and 30 minutes). The callsign or name will be transmitted every 10 minutes.The Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) Feature requires that you (1) store the CTCSS TonePair into the Receiving Pager Memory (see page xx for procedure), and (2) store thedesired UHF coordination frequency into Memory Channel “EAIEAIEAIEAIEAI” (see page 47 for proce-dure).FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 97SELECTING THE EAI MODE AND ITS TRANSMIT TIME1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 28: EAI TIME28: EAI TIME28: EAI TIME28: EAI TIME28: EAI TIME.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired EAI mode (In-terval EAI “INTINTINTINTINT” or Continuous EAI “CONCONCONCONCON”) and transmittime (11111-1010101010, 1515151515, 2020202020, 3030303030, 4040404040, and 5050505050 minutes).5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.ACTIVATING THE EAI FEATURE1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 27: EAI27: EAI27: EAI27: EAI27: EAI.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON” (thus activating theEAI feature).5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation (with EAI feature “ON”).When the EAI feature is activated, the “EAIEAIEAIEAIEAI” icon and the BandNumber (or memory channel number) will appear alternately in the Memory ChannelNumber Display Slot of the display.To disable the EAI feature, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob toselect “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step “4” above.The VX-8GR will ignore the EAI feature when (1) the squelch is open, (2)there is an incoming signal on the operating frequency, (3) the operatingfrequency is the same as the frequency which is stored in the Memory Chan-nel “EAI,” or (4) a VHF frequency is stored in Memory Channel “EAI”.EMERGENCY FEATUREEMERGENCY AUTOMATIC ID (EAI) FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL98TO LOCATE AN UNRESPONSIVE OPERATOR USING THE EAI FEATURE1. Recall the Memory Channel “EAIEAIEAIEAIEAI” (must be the same as thesearched person’s radio), which is found in the next to thelast “regular” memory channel.2. Set the CTCSS tone pair to the same CTCSS tone pair storedin the Receiving Pager Code Memory of the missing person’s radio.1) Press the f key, then press the 2 key. This pro-vides a “Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 63: PAGE CODE-63: PAGE CODE-63: PAGE CODE-63: PAGE CODE-63: PAGE CODE-TXTXTXTXTX.2) Rotate the DIAL knob to select the first tone.3) Press the M key.4) Rotate the DIAL knob to select the second tone.5) Press the 2 key to save the new setting and exit fromsetting mode.3. Press and hold in the PTT switch for five seconds. If the EAI signal is received by aVX-8GR transceiver programmed with matching EAI CTCSS tones the EAI featurewill activate. The lost operator’s radio will beep loudly, and its transmitter will re-spond repeatedly. You may now begin direction-finding efforts.4. The ATT (Front End Attenuator) is often useful in locatingthe missing person’s radio, as peaks in weaker signals aremore easily observed. You may select the ATT level “ATT 1ATT 1ATT 1ATT 1ATT 1(10 dB),” “ATT 2ATT 2ATT 2ATT 2ATT 2 (50 dB),” and “ATT OFFATT OFFATT OFFATT OFFATT OFF” by pressing theB key to reduce the signal.5. Press the c key to exit to normal operation.EMERGENCY AUTOMATIC ID (EAI) FEATUREEMERGENCY FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 99GENERALThe VX-8GR can be used to access a “node” (repeater or base station) which is tied intothe Vertex Standard WIRES™ (Wide-Coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System)network, operating in the “SRG” (Sister Radio Group) mode. Details may be found at theWIRES-II Web site: http://www.vxstd.com/en/wiresinfo-en/. This feature may also be usedto access other systems, as described below.SRG (“SISTER RADIO GROUP”) MODE1. Press the d key to activate the Internet Connection fea-ture. The “ ” icon will appear in the lower left corner ofthe display.2. Rotate the DIAL knob, while pressing and holding in thed key, to select the access number (“DTMF 0DTMF 0DTMF 0DTMF 0DTMF 0” - “DTMFDTMFDTMFDTMFDTMF99999”, “DTMF ADTMF ADTMF ADTMF ADTMF A”, “DTMF BDTMF BDTMF BDTMF BDTMF B”, “DTMF CDTMF CDTMF CDTMF CDTMF C”, “DTMF DDTMF DDTMF DDTMF DDTMF D”, “DTMFDTMFDTMFDTMFDTMF”, “DTMF #DTMF #DTMF #DTMF #DTMF #”) corresponding to the WIRES™ repeater towhich you wish to establish an Internet link (ask your re-peater owner/operator if you don’t know the access numbers in the network). Nowpress the PTT switch to exit from the selection mode.3. With the Internet Connection feature activated (as in step 1 above), the VX-8GR willgenerate a brief (0.1 second) DTMF tone according to your selection in step 2. ThisDTMF tone is sent at the beginning of every transmission to establish or maintain thelink to the remote WIRES™ repeater operating in the SRG mode.4. To disable the Internet Connection feature, press the d key again (The “ ” icondisappear from the display.If other users report that you always have a DTMF “beep” at the beginningof each transmission, and you are not operating in conjunction with Internetaccess, disable this function via step 4 above.INTERNET CONNECTION FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL100FRG (“FRIENDLY RADIO GROUP”) MODEYou may access other Internet Link Systems (including WIRES™ in the FRG mode) thatuse a DTMF string for access.PROGRAMMING THE FRG CODELoad the DTMF tones which you wish to use for Internet-link access into an InternetMemory Register. For purposes of this example, we will use “#1101D” as the access codeof the W6DXC node.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 40:40:40:40:40:INTERNET SELECTINTERNET SELECTINTERNET SELECTINTERNET SELECTINTERNET SELECT.3. Press the   key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the DTMF Memory register(“11111” - “6464646464”) into which you wish to store the access code.5. If you wish to attach an alpha/numeric name “Tag” to theInternet Memory, proceed to the next step; otherwise pressthe B key then skip to step 13.6. Press the M key briefly to enable programming of thename tag.7. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the first digit of the desiredlabel.8. Press the M key to move to the next character.9. If you make a mistake, press the B key to back-spacethe cursor, then re-enter the correct letter, number, or sym-bol.10. Repeat steps 7 through 9 to program the remaining letters,numbers, or symbols of the desired label. Eight charactersmay be used in the creation of a label.11. When you have programmed a label that is less than 8 char-acters, press the M key twice to confirm the label andenable storing the access code; otherwise, just program the8 character label and press the M key one time.12. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “#####”.13. Press the M key briefly to accept the first digit and moveto the second digit of the DTMF string.14. If you make a mistake, press the B key to backspacethe cursor, then re-enter the correct letter or number.15. Repeat steps 12 through 14 until you have completed theaccess code (“#1101D”).INTERNET CONNECTION FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 10116. When you have stored an access code that is less than 8 digits, press the M keytwice to confirm the code and enable storing the access code; otherwise, just enter the8 digits and press the M key one time.17. Repeat steps 4 through 16 to store other access codes, if so desired.18. Press the PTT switch to save the settings and exit to normal operation.OPERATION (ACCESSING AN FRG NODE)1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 3939393939.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set this Set Mode Item to “FRGFRGFRGFRGFRG”(thus activating the “Other Internet Link System” mode).5. Press the PTT switch to save the new settings.6. Press the d key briefly to activate the Internet Connec-tion feature. The “ ” icon will appear in the lower left ofthe display.7. Rotate the DIAL knob while pressing the d key to selectthe Internet Memory register number (“11111” - “6464646464”) corre-sponding to the Internet link repeater to which you wish toestablish an Internet link, then press the PTT switch brieflyto lock in the selected access number.8. Once the Internet Connection feature is activated as in step7 above, you may press the d key, while you are trans-mitting, to send out the selected DTMF string (to establish the link to the desiredInternet-link node).9. To return to the WIRES™ SRG mode, repeat steps 1 - 5 above, selecting “SRGSRGSRGSRGSRG” instep 4.INTERNET CONNECTION FEATUREFRG (“FRIENDLY RADIO GROUP”) MODEFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL102The VX-8GR’s keypad allows easy DTMF dialing for Autopatch, repeater control, orInternet-link access purposes. Besides numerical digits [0] through [9], the keypad in-cludes the [] and [#] digits, plus the [A], [B], [C], and [D] tones often used for repeatercontrol.MANUAL DTMF TONE GENERATIONYou can generate DTMF tones during transmission manually.1. Press the PTT switch to begin transmission.2. While transmitting, press the desired numbers on the keypad.3. When you have sent all the digits desired, release the PTT key.DTMF AUTODIALERNine DTMF Autodial memories are provided, allowing you to store telephone numbersfor autopatch use. You can also store short autopatch or Internet-link access code streamsto avoid having to send them manually.Here is the DTMF Autodial storage procedure:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 25: DTMF25: DTMF25: DTMF25: DTMF25: DTMFSELECTSELECTSELECTSELECTSELECT.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the DTMF Memory register(11111 - 1010101010) into which you wish to store this DTMF string.5. Press the M key briefly to begin DTMF Memory entryinto the selected register.6. Press and hold in the h key for two seconds to clear thepreviously-stored data, if desired.7. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the first digit of the DTMFstring. Selectable entries are 00000 - 99999,  AAAAA - DDDDD, , and #####. Youmay select “–––––” to store a “Pause”, if needed.8. Press the M key to move to the next character.9. Repeats steps 7 and 8 to program the remaining the DTMFstring.10. Press and hold in the h key for two seconds to delete thepreviously-stored data after the cursor.11. If you make a mistake, press the B key to back-spacethe cursor, re-enter the correct number.12. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation. To store other numbers, repeat thisprocess, using a different DTMF memory register.DTMF OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 103You may check your work by monitoring the entered DTMF string. To do this,repeat steps 1 - 4 above, then press the f key.To send a telephone number:1. Press the f key, then press the 3 key. This provides a“Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 24: DTMF MANUAL24: DTMF MANUAL24: DTMF MANUAL24: DTMF MANUAL24: DTMF MANUAL/AUTOAUTOAUTOAUTOAUTO.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “AUTOAUTOAUTOAUTOAUTO” (to activate theDTMF Autodialer function).3. Press the PTT switch to exit to normal operation and acti-vate the DTMF Autodialer function (the “ ” icon will ap-pear).4. In the Autodialer function mode, first press the PTT key,then press the numerical key (1 through 9, and 0:representing “10”) corresponding to the DTMF memorystring you wish to send. Once the string begins, you mayrelease the PTT key, as the transmitter will be held “on theair” until the DTMF string is completed.To disable the DTMF Autodialer, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knobto select “MANUALMANUALMANUALMANUALMANUAL” in step “2” above.1) You can change the DTMF Autodialer sending speed, using Set ModeItem 26: DTMF SPEED, see page xx for details.2) You can also set a longer delay between the time your transmitter is keyedand the first DTMF digit is sent, using Set Mode Item 23: DTMF DELAY, see page xxfor details.DTMF OPERATIONFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL104The VX-8GR provides a CW learning feature, which sends the designated Morse Codevia the sidetone (heard in the speaker) to help your CW learning.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 17: CW17: CW17: CW17: CW17: CWLEARNINGLEARNINGLEARNINGLEARNINGLEARNING.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Training mode (displayedin fine print at the upper edge of the LCD):ALPHAALPHAALPHAALPHAALPHA: Sends the Alphabet charactersALPHA AUTOALPHA AUTOALPHA AUTOALPHA AUTOALPHA AUTO: Sends the Alphabet characters (move tonext character automatically)NUMBERNUMBERNUMBERNUMBERNUMBER: Sends the Numeric charactersNUMBER AUTONUMBER AUTONUMBER AUTONUMBER AUTONUMBER AUTO: Sends the Numeric characters (move to next character automatically)SYMBLSYMBLSYMBLSYMBLSYMBL: Sends the Symbol charactersSYMBL AUTOSYMBL AUTOSYMBL AUTOSYMBL AUTOSYMBL AUTO: Sends the Symbol characters (move to next character automatically)5. Press the b key to change the cursor to “CHRCHRCHRCHRCHR”, then ro-tate the DIAL knob to select the CW code which you wantto learn.6. Press the b key to change the cursor to “SPEDSPEDSPEDSPEDSPED”, thenrotate the DIAL knob to select the Morse speed. You mayselect the units of the code speed in either “CPMCPMCPMCPMCPM (charac-ters per minute)” or “WPMWPMWPMWPMWPM (Words per minute)” by usingthe DIAL knob from Set Item “FORMFORMFORMFORMFORM”.7. Press the b key to change the cursor to “REPTREPTREPTREPTREPT”, thenrotate the DIAL knob to select the sending repetition (1 -9).8. Press the b key to change the cursor to “PTCHPTCHPTCHPTCHPTCH”, thenrotate the DIAL knob to adjust the CW sidetone pitch (400- 1000 Hz, 50 Hz/step).9. Press the b key to change the cursor to “LEDLEDLEDLEDLED”, then ro-tate the DIAL knob to switch the flashing of the (white)LED light “on” and “off”.10. Press the f key to begin generating the selected codecharacters the designated number of times (Only the speakerCW sidetone is heard, the radio does not transmit).11. You may adjust the CW sidetone audio level by rotating the DIAL knob while press-ing and holding the g key.12. If one of the “AUTOAUTOAUTOAUTOAUTO” modes is not selected in step 4 above, press the f key to sendagain, or select another code by rotating the DIAL knob from “CHRCHRCHRCHRCHR” item and pressCW LEARNING FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 105the f key to begin generation.13. To stop CW generation, press the f key again.14. To disable CW learning feature, press the PTT switch.The “CPM” selection is based on the international “PARIS” standard, whichstipulates five characters per word.CW LEARNING FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL106The VX-8GR provides another CW learning feature; call it a CW Training feature, whichsends random Morse Code via the sidetone (heard in the speaker), so you can improveyour CW proficiency.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 19:19:19:19:19:CW TRAININGCW TRAININGCW TRAININGCW TRAININGCW TRAINING.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment ofthis Set Mode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Training mode (displayedin fine print at the upper edge of the LCD):ALPHA 5CHRALPHA 5CHRALPHA 5CHRALPHA 5CHRALPHA 5CHR: Sends five Alphabet characters onlyALPHA REPTALPHA REPTALPHA REPTALPHA REPTALPHA REPT: Sends Alphabet characters only (Repeatedly)NUMBER 5CHRNUMBER 5CHRNUMBER 5CHRNUMBER 5CHRNUMBER 5CHR: Sends five Numeric characters onlyNUMBER REPTNUMBER REPTNUMBER REPTNUMBER REPTNUMBER REPT: Sends Numeric characters only (Repeatedly)MIX 5CHRMIX 5CHRMIX 5CHRMIX 5CHRMIX 5CHR: Sends five Alphabet, Numeric, “?”, and “/” characters (Mixed)MIX REPTMIX REPTMIX REPTMIX REPTMIX REPT: Sends Alphabet, Numeric, “?”, and “/” characters (Mixed, Con-tinuously in groups of five)5. Press the b key to change the cursor to “SPEDSPEDSPEDSPEDSPED”, thenrotate the DIAL knob to select the Morse speed. You mayselect the units of the code speed between “CPMCPMCPMCPMCPM (charac-ters per minute)” and “WPMWPMWPMWPMWPM (Words per minute)” by theDIAL knob from Set Item “FORMFORMFORMFORMFORM”.6. Press the b key to change the cursor to “PTCHPTCHPTCHPTCHPTCH”, thenrotate the DIAL knob to adjust the CW sidetone pitch (400- 1000 Hz, 50 Hz/step).7. Press the b key to change the cursor to “LEDLEDLEDLEDLED”, then ro-tate the DIAL knob to switch the flashing of the (white)LED light “on” and “off”.8. Press the a/b key to change the cursor to “MODEMODEMODEMODEMODE.9. Press the f key to begin generation of the code characters(CW sidetone only, the radio does not transmit); the gener-ated characters will appear at the right of the “CHRCHRCHRCHRCHR” item.10. You may adjust the CW sidetone audio level by rotating theDIAL knob while pressing and holding the g key.11. If one of the “5CHR5CHR5CHR5CHR5CHR” modes is selected in step 4 above, press the f key to sendanother code group.12. To stop CW generation, press the f key again.13. To disable CW training feature, press the PTT switch.The “CPM” selection is based on the international “PARIS” standard, whichstipulates five characters per word.CW TRAINING FEATUREFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 107SENSOR MODEThe VX-8GR always displays the “Battery Voltage” and “Cur-rent Time” while the VX-8GR is operating in the “Mono” bandmode with the Large characters. You may change the “BatteryVoltage” display to the “Temperature” display which indicatesthe current temperature inside the transceiver’s case.To change the display from the “Battery Voltage” to the “Temperature”:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 78:78:78:78:78:SENSOR DISPLAYSENSOR DISPLAYSENSOR DISPLAYSENSOR DISPLAYSENSOR DISPLAY.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment ofthis Set Mode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “TEMPTEMPTEMPTEMPTEMP”.5. Press the PTT switch briefly to exit to normal op-eration and display the sensor information on the dis-play.To return to the “Battery Voltage” display, just repeat the above procedure, rotating theDIAL knob to select “DCDCDCDCDC” in step “4” above.1) When select “OFF” in step “4” above, the VX-8GR displays only the “Cur-rent Time” while the VX-8GR is operating in the “Mono” band mode withthe Large characters.2) You may monitor the “Battery Voltage” using Set Mode Item 20: DC VOLTAGE, andthe “Temperature” using Set Mode Item 79: SENSOR INFO .CLOCK SETThe VX-8GR has a 24-hour clock with a calendar which covers all dates from January 1,2000 through December 31, 2099 (accuracy: ±30 sec/month).To set the clock:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 90:90:90:90:90:TIME SETTIME SETTIME SETTIME SETTIME SET.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment ofthis Menu Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the “year” setting.5. Press the M key briefly, then rotate the DIAL knob toselect the “month” setting.6. Repeat the above step to set the “day,” “day of the week,”“hour,” and “minute” selections.7. Press the M key briefly, then rotate the DIAL knob to set“Timer Signal” On (SIGSIGSIGSIGSIG) or Off (––––––––––). In the “SIGSIGSIGSIGSIG” mode, aFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL108SENSOR MODEdouble-beep will be emitted from the speaker at the top of each hour, as long as thetransceiver is turned on.8. Press the M key briefly, press the c key to start the clock from “00” seconds.9. When you have finished the time setup, press the PTT switch to save the new settingand return to normal operation.The VX-8GR has a rechargeable Li-Ion battery cell used just for the clock.Therefore, the VX-8GR can maintain its clock data for approximately twomonths without using the main battery pack or external DC power.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 109MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGPASSWORDThe VX-8GR provides a password feature which can minimize the chance that your trans-ceiver could be used by an unauthorized party.When the password feature is activated, the radio will ask for the four digit password to beentered when the radio is first turned on. You must enter thefour digit password from the keypad. If the wrong password isentered, the microprocessor will shut down the radio automati-cally.To enter and activate the password use the following procedure:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 64:64:64:64:64:PASSWORDPASSWORDPASSWORDPASSWORDPASSWORD.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment ofthis Set Mode Item.4. Press the M key to enable programming the password.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the first digit of thedesired number/letter (00000 - 99999, AAAAA, BBBBB,  C C C C C, DDDDD, , and #####).6. Press the M key to move to the next digit.7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 to program the remaining num-bers/letters of the desired password.8. If you make a mistake, press the B key to moveback to the previous digit, then select the correct num-ber/letter.9. When you have finished entering the password, pressthe M key and rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON” (toactivate the password feature).10. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and exit tonormal operation.If you wish to disable the Password feature, repeat steps 1 - 3 above. Rotate the DIALknob to select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF”, then press the PTT switch.1) We recommend that you write down the password number, and keep it in asafe place where you can easily find if you forget your password.2) If you forget the password number, you may turn on the transceiver byperforming the “Microprocessor Resetting” procedure (see page xx). However, theVX-8GR will clear the password, as well as all memories, and will restore all othersettings to factory defaults.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL110PROGRAMMING THE  KEYThe Internet Key is the factory default (“primary” press key) function of the d key.However, you may change the “primary” (press key) function of the d key to anotherfunction via the Menu mode.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 38:38:38:38:38:INTERNET KEYINTERNET KEYINTERNET KEYINTERNET KEYINTERNET KEY.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired function:INTERNETINTERNETINTERNETINTERNETINTERNET: Activates/Disables the internet feature.INTERNET SELECTINTERNET SELECTINTERNET SELECTINTERNET SELECTINTERNET SELECT: Recalls the Internet Access Number(SRG) or Access String (FRG). Selectthe SRG number or FRG string via Menu Item 39: INTERNET39: INTERNET39: INTERNET39: INTERNET39: INTERNETMODEMODEMODEMODEMODE.SET MODESET MODESET MODESET MODESET MODE: A short cut path to recall one of the Menu Items. See box belowfor programming.5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch briefly to save the newsetting and exit to normal operation.When “INTERNET SELECT” or “SET MODE” is assigned to the d key,the INTERNET function may be activated/disabled via Set Mode Item 36:INTERNET.ASSIGN THE SET MODE ITEM TO THE   KEY1. Change (“primary” press key) function of the   key to “SET MODESET MODESET MODESET MODESET MODE”, usingSet Mode Item 38: INTERNET KEY38: INTERNET KEY38: INTERNET KEY38: INTERNET KEY38: INTERNET KEY, as descried above.2. Press and hold in the   key for one second to enter the Set Mode again.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Set Mode Item which you wish to assignto the   key as a short-cut.4. Press and hold in the   key for one second to assign the Set Mode Item tothe   key. “MY KEYMY KEYMY KEYMY KEYMY KEY” will appear on the display, to confirm that the com-mand was executed.5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting and exit to normal op-eration.Now, briefly pressing of the   key will immediately recall the selected MenuItem. You must press the   key again to exit to normal operation.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 111ATT (FRONT END ATTENUATOR)The attenuator will reduce all signals (and noise) by 10 dB, and it may be used to makereception more pleasant under extremely noisy conditions.1. Set a band (“A-Band” or “B-Band”) on which you wish to activate the “attenuator” tothe “Operating” Band (indicated in large character).2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 1: ANTENNA1: ANTENNA1: ANTENNA1: ANTENNA1: ANTENNAATTATTATTATTATT.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to change the setting from “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” to“ONONONONON”.6. When you have made your selection, press the PTT key tosave the new setting and exit to normal operation.7. If you wish to disable the attenuator, just repeat the above procedure, rotate the DIALknob to select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step “5” above.1) When the attenuator is activated, the “ ” iconwill appear on the display.2) The attenuator can be set independently on eachoperating band of the “A-Band” and “B-Band”.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL112RECEIVE BATTERY SAVER SETUPAn important feature of the VX-8GR is its Receive Battery Saver, which “puts the radio tosleep” for a time interval, periodically “waking it up” to check for activity. If somebody istalking on the channel, the VX-8GR will remain in the “active” mode, then resume its“sleep” cycles. This feature significantly reduces quiescent battery drain, and you maychange the amount of “sleep” time between activity checks using the Menu System:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX73: SAVE RX.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired “sleep” dura-tion. The selections available are 0.2sec0.2sec0.2sec0.2sec0.2sec - 0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec0.9sec (0.1sec/step), 1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec1.0sec - 9.5sec9.5sec9.5sec9.5sec9.5sec (0.5sec/step), 10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec10.0sec - 60.0sec60.0sec60.0sec60.0sec60.0sec(5sec/step), or OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF. The default value is 0.2sec0.2sec0.2sec0.2sec0.2sec.5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switchto save the new setting and exit to normal operation.When you are operating on Packet, switch the Receive Battery Saver OFF, asthe sleep cycle may “collide” with the beginning of an incoming Packet trans-mission, causing your TNC not to receive the full data burst.TX BATTERY SAVERThe VX-8GR also includes a useful Transmit Battery Saver, which will automaticallylower the power output level when the last signal received was very strong. For example,when you are in the immediate vicinity of a repeater station, there generally is no reason touse the full 5 Watts of power output in order to achieve full-quieting access to the repeater.With the Transmit Battery Saver, the automatic selection of Low Power operation con-serves battery drain significantly.To activate the Transmit Battery Saver:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 74: SAVE TX74: SAVE TX74: SAVE TX74: SAVE TX74: SAVE TX.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set this Set Mode Item to “ONONONONON”(thus activating the Transmit Battery Saver).5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.To disable the Transmit Battery Saver, just repeat the above pro-cedure, rotating the DIAL knob to select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 4 above.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 113DISABLING THE BUSY INDICATORFurther battery conservation may be accomplished by disabling the BUSY indicator whilereceiving a signal. Use the following procedure:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 14: BUSY14: BUSY14: BUSY14: BUSY14: BUSYLEDLEDLEDLEDLED.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set this Set Mode Item to “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF”(thus disabling the BUSY lamp).5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.To enable the BUSY indicator, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob toselect “ONONONONON” in step 4 above.AUTOMATIC POWER-OFF (APO) FEATUREThe APO feature helps conserve battery life by automatically turning the radio off after auser-defined period of time within which there has been no dial or key activity.The available selections for the time before power-off are 0.5 - 12.0 hour, as well as APOOff. The default condition for the APO is OFF, and here is the procedure for activating it:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 2: APO2: APO2: APO2: APO2: APO.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired time period afterwhich the radio will automatically shut down.5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.When the APO is activated, the “ ” icon will appear at thecenter bottom on the LCD. If there is no action by you withinthe time interval programmed, the microprocessor will shut downthe radio automatically.Just press and hold in the p(PWR) switch for 2 seconds toturn the transceiver back on after an APO shutdown, as usual.To disable the APO, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob to select“OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 4 above.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL114TRANSMITTER TIME-OUT TIMER (TOT)The TOT feature provides a safety switch which limits transmission to a pre-programmedvalue. This will promote battery conservation by not allowing you to make excessivelylong transmissions, and in the event of a stuck PTT switch (perhaps if the radio or aSpeaker/Mic is wedged between car seats) it can prevent interference to other users aswell as battery depletion. As configured at the factory the TOT feature is set to OFF, andhere is the procedure for activating it:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 94: TOT94: TOT94: TOT94: TOT94: TOT.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set the Time-Out Timer to the de-sired “Maximum TX” time. The available selections are 0.5- 10.0 minutes (0.5 minute/step).5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.To disable the Time-Out Timer, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob toselect “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 4 above.1) When your transmission time is within 10 seconds of the Time-Out Timerexpiration, an Alert bell will provide an audible warning from the speaker.2) Since brief transmissions are the mark of a good operator, try setting upyour radio’s TOT feature for a maximum transmission time of 1 minute. This will sig-nificantly improve battery life, too!MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 115ON/OFF PRESET TIMERThe VX-8GR includes the capability to turn itself on/off at preset time. If you use thesefeatures, you must first set the VX-8GR’s clock, as described previously (page xx).ON TIMER1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 59: ON59: ON59: ON59: ON59: ONTIMERTIMERTIMERTIMERTIMER.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set the “hour” at which you wantthe radio to switch on.5. Press the M key, then rotate the DIAL knob to set the“minute” at which you want the radio to switch on.6. Press the M key, then rotate the DIAL knob to set thisMenu Item to “ONONONONON”.7. When you have made your selections, press the PTT switchto save the new setting and exit to normal operation.To disable the ON Timer, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob toselect “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 6 above.OFF TIMER1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 58: OFF58: OFF58: OFF58: OFF58: OFFTIMERTIMERTIMERTIMERTIMER.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set the “hour” at which you wantthe radio to switch off.5. Press the M key, then rotate the DIAL knob to set the“minute” at which you want the radio to switch off.6. Press the M key, then rotate the DIAL knob to set thisMenu Item to “ONONONONON”.7. When you have made your selections, press the PTT switchto save the new setting and exit to normal operation.To disable the OFF Timer, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob toselect “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 6 above.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL116BUSY CHANNEL LOCK-OUT (BCLO)The BCLO feature prevents the radio’s transmitter from being activated if a signal strongenough to break through the “noise” squelch is present. On a frequency where stationsusing different CTCSS or DCS codes may be active, BCLO prevents you from disruptingtheir communications accidentally (because your radio may be muted by its own ToneDecoder). The default setting for the BCLO is OFF, and here is how to change that setting:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 7: BCLO7: BCLO7: BCLO7: BCLO7: BCLO.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set this Set Mode Item to “ONONONONON”(thus activating the BCLO feature).5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.To disable the BCLO feature, just repeat the above procedure,rotating the DIAL knob to select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 4 above.CHANGING THE TX DEVIATION LEVELIn many areas of the world, channel congestion has required that operating channels beclosely spaced. In such operating environments, it is often required that operators usereduced deviation levels, to reduce the potential for interference to users on adjacent chan-nels. The VX-8GR includes a simple method of accomplishing this:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 32: HALF32: HALF32: HALF32: HALF32: HALFDEVIATIONDEVIATIONDEVIATIONDEVIATIONDEVIATION.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to change this Set Mode Item to “ONONONONON”.In this configuration (HALF DEVIATION active), thetransmitter’s deviation will be approximately ±2.5 kHz.5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.The “normal” setting for the deviation (when this Set Mode Item is set to “OFF”)is ±5 kHz.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 117CHANGING THE MICROPHONE GAINAt the factory, a microphone gain has been programmed that should be satisfactory for theinternal microphone. If you use the radio under the noisy environment, you may wish toset a different microphone gain level.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 55: MIC55: MIC55: MIC55: MIC55: MICGAINGAINGAINGAINGAIN.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired microphone level.The available selections are LEVEL 1LEVEL 1LEVEL 1LEVEL 1LEVEL 1 - LEVEL 9LEVEL 9LEVEL 9LEVEL 9LEVEL 9 (factorydefault: LEVEL 5LEVEL 5LEVEL 5LEVEL 5LEVEL 5).5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.S-AND TX POWER METER SYMBOLSThe VX-8GR has four types of S- (Signal Strength) and TX Power Meter symbol formatsavailable. You may change the default setting to any of the available symbols.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 83: S-METER83: S-METER83: S-METER83: S-METER83: S-METERSYMBOLSYMBOLSYMBOLSYMBOLSYMBOL.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired meter symboltype.,  ,  , or 5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL118DISPLAY CONTRASTThe LCD’s contrast may be adjusted for best viewing in sunlight or darkness allowing forbest readability using the Set Mode Item.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 43: LCD43: LCD43: LCD43: LCD43: LCDCONTRASTCONTRASTCONTRASTCONTRASTCONTRAST.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to adjust the contrast. As you makethe adjustment, you will be able to see the effects of yourchanges. The available selections are LEVEL 12LEVEL 12LEVEL 12LEVEL 12LEVEL 12 - LEVELLEVELLEVELLEVELLEVEL3232323232 (factory default: LEVEL 24LEVEL 24LEVEL 24LEVEL 24LEVEL 24).5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTT switch to save the newsetting and exit to normal operation.DISPLAY DIMMERThe LCD and keypad illumination may be adjusted using the Set Mode Item, as well.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 44: LCD44: LCD44: LCD44: LCD44: LCDDIMMERDIMMERDIMMERDIMMERDIMMER.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to adjust the display illumination fora comfortable brightness level. As you make the adjustment,you will be able to see the effects of your changes. Theavailable selections are LEVEL 1LEVEL 1LEVEL 1LEVEL 1LEVEL 1 - LEVEL 4LEVEL 4LEVEL 4LEVEL 4LEVEL 4 (factory default:LEVEL 4LEVEL 4LEVEL 4LEVEL 4LEVEL 4).5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTT switch to save the newsetting and exit to normal operation.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 119MY BANDS OPERATIONThe “My Bands” feature allows you to select several operating bands, and make onlythose bands available for selection via the B key.For example, if you do not need the reception of the VHF and UHF TV bands, you mayskip (omit) these bands from the band selection loop.My Bands Setup1. Set the VX-8GR to the VFO mode.2. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 96: VFO SKIP96: VFO SKIP96: VFO SKIP96: VFO SKIP96: VFO SKIP.4. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to choose a band number (see chartbelow) you wish to omit (skip) form the band selection loop.6. Press the M key, then rotate the DIAL knob to select“ONONONONON” and omit (skip) the band from the band selection loop.Note: The band presently in use cannot be turned “ONONONONON”.7. Press the M key again.8. Repeat steps 5 through 7 above to select as many bands asyou like.9. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.To re-institute a band into the band selection loop, repeat the above procedure, rotating theDIAL knob to select “OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” in step 6.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGOPERATING BANDAIR BandVHF HAM BandVHF BandINFO 1 BandUHF HAM BandUHF BandINFO 2 Band USA Version: Cellular BlockedFREQUENCY RANGEBANDNUMBER1234567“VFO-B”108-137 MHz137-174 MHz174-222 MHz222-420 MHz420-470 MHz470-580 MHz–“VFO-A”108-137 MHz137-174 MHz174-222 MHz222-420 MHz420-470 MHz470-774 MHz774-999.99 MHzBAND NUMBER CHARTFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL120CHANGING THE STATUS OF THE ggggg KEYBy factory default, the g key keeps the status while pressing and holding the g keydown. You may change the status of the g key to keep the status for approximatelythree seconds after pressing the g key, after which time it reverts back to its previousstatus.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 99: VOL-99: VOL-99: VOL-99: VOL-99: VOL-UME MODEUME MODEUME MODEUME MODEUME MODE.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired mode.NORMALNORMALNORMALNORMALNORMAL: The g key keeps the status while pressingand holding the g key down.AUTO BACKAUTO BACKAUTO BACKAUTO BACKAUTO BACK: The g key keeps its status for approxi-mately three seconds after pressing the g key.5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTT switch to save the newsetting and exit to normal operation.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 121RESET PROCEDURESIn some instances of erratic or unpredictable operation, the cause may be corruption ofdata in the microprocessor (due to static electricity, etc.). If this happens, resetting of themicroprocessor may restore normal operation.Note that all memories will be erased if you do a complete microprocessor reset,as described below.MICROPROCESSOR RESETTINGTo clear all memories and other settings to factory defaults:1. Turn the radio off.2. Press and hold in the B, h, and d keys while turning the radio on.3. Press the f key briefly to reset all settings to their factory defaults (press any otherkey to cancel the Reset procedure).SET MODE RESETTINGTo reset the Set Mode (includes the APRS®/GPS Set Mode) settings to their factory de-faults:1. Turn the radio off.2. Press and hold in the B and c keys while turning the radio on.3. Press the f key briefly to reset the Set Mode Item settings to their factory defaults(press any other key to cancel the Reset procedure).:Except the following Set Mode Items.Set Mode 6: BANK NAME, 15: CLOCK SHIFT, 16: CW ID,21: DCS CODE, 22: DCS INVERSION,25: DTMF SELECT, 29: EMERGENCY SELECT,32: HALF DEVIATION, 37: INTERNET CODE,40: INTERNET SELECT, 47: MEMORY FIRST STEP,48: MEMORY NAME, 50: MEMORY SKIP,54: MESSAGE SELECT, 62: PAGER CODE-RX,63: PAGER CODE-TX, 70: RPT SHIFT,71: RPT SHIFT FREQ, 88: SQL TYPE,91: TONE FREQUENCY,APRS®/GPS Set Mode 4: APRS MSG FLASH, 16: DIGI PASS,21: MSG GROUP, 22: MY CALLSIGN,23: MY POSITION, 24: MY SYMBOLFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL122The VX-8GR includes a convenient “Clone” feature, which allows the memory and con-figuration data from one transceiver to be transferred to another VX-8GR. This can beparticularly useful when configuring a number of transceivers for a public service opera-tion. Here is the procedure for Cloning one radio’s data to another:1. Turn both radios off.2. Connect the optional CT-144 Clone Cable between the DATA jacks of the two ra-dios.3. Press and hold in the f key while turning the radios on.Do this for both radios (the order of switch-on does notmatter). “CLONECLONECLONECLONECLONE” will appear on the displays of both ra-dios when the Clone mode is successfully activated in thisstep.4. On the Destination radio, press the M key (“- WAIT -- WAIT -- WAIT -- WAIT -- WAIT -”will appear on the LCD).5. Press the B key on the Source radio; “- - TX - -- - TX - -- - TX - -- - TX - -- - TX - -” willappear on the Source radio, and the data from this radiowill be transferred to the other radio.6. If there is a problem during the cloning process, “ERRORERRORERRORERRORERROR”will be displayed. Check your cable connections and bat-tery voltage, and try again.7. If the data transfer is successful, “CLONECLONECLONECLONECLONE” will reappear onboth displays. Turn both radios off and disconnect the CloneCable. You can then turn the radios back on, and begin nor-mal operation.CLONING(Destination radio)(Source radio)CT-143 CloneCable(Option)DATA Jack DATA JackFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 123FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL124GENERALThe VX-8GR Set Mode, already described in parts of many previous chapters, is easy toactivate and set. It may be used for configuration of a wide variety of transceiver param-eters, some of which have not been detailed previously. Use the following procedure toactivate the Set Mode:1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the SetMode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item to be ad-justed.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of the SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to adjust or select the parameter tobe changed on the Set Mode Item selected in above step.5. After completing your selection and adjustment, press the PTT switch briefly to savethe new setting and exit to normal operation.Some Set Mode Items (like Set Mode Item 91: TONE FREQUENCY) re-quire that the m key be pressed after setting of the parameter, and beforeexiting to normal operation.CHANGING THE DISPLAY FORMAT OF THE SET MODE ITEMBy factory default setting, the VX-8GR displays the Set Mode Item with “List” format ina Set Mode. You may change the display format of the Set Mode to our traditional “Item”format.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 81: SET81: SET81: SET81: SET81: SETMODE FORMATMODE FORMATMODE FORMATMODE FORMATMODE FORMAT.3. Press the   key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ITEMITEMITEMITEMITEM”.5. Press the PTT switch briefly to save the new setting andexit to normal operation.To return the display format to the “List”, repeat the above pro-cedure, rotating the DIAL knob to select “LISTLISTLISTLISTLIST” in step 4.SET MODE(“LIST” format) (“ITEM” format)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 125SET MODECHANGING THE SET MODE CURSORThe VX-8GR has nine types of cursor symbol formats for the Set Mode operation. Youmay change the default setting to any of the available symbols.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 80: SET80: SET80: SET80: SET80: SETMODE CSRMODE CSRMODE CSRMODE CSRMODE CSR.3. Press the g key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired cursor symboltype.,  ,  ,  ,  ,  ,  ,  , or 5. When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.MASKING THE SET MODE ITEMSThere may be situations where you want to “Mask” Set Mode Items so they are not re-called during Set Mode Item selection.1. Press and hold the m key for one second to enter the Set Mode.2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 30: EX-30: EX-30: EX-30: EX-30: EX-TENDED MENUTENDED MENUTENDED MENUTENDED MENUTENDED MENU.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this SetMode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ONONONONON”, then press the mkey briefly.5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the Set Mode Item to be“Masked”.6. Press the f key briefly. A “ ” icon will appear at theright side of the Set Mode Item Number in the display, indi-cating the Set Mode Item is to be Masked.7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 above, to append the “ ” icon to anyother Set Mode Item you wish to “Masked”.8 When you have completed your selection, press the PTTswitch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.To unmask the hidden Set Mode Item, repeat the above procedure. In step 4 above select“OFFOFFOFFOFFOFF” and in step 6 above the “ ” icon will disappear from the Menu Item you wish tounmask.GENERALFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL1261: ANTENNA  ATT2: APO3: ARTS  BEEP4: ARTS  INTERVAL5: BANK  LINK6: BANK  NAME7: BCLO8: BEEP  EDGE9: BEEP  LEVEL10: BEEP  MELODY11: BEEP  SELECT12: BELL  RINGER13: BELL  SELECT14: BUSY  LED15: CLOCK  SHIFT16: CW  ID17: CW  LEARNING18: CW PITCH19: CW  TRAINING20: DC  VOLTAGE21: DCS  CODE22: DCS  INVERSION23: DTMF  DELAY24: DTMF  MANUAL/AUTO25: DTMF  SELECT26: DTMF  SPEED27: EAI28: EAI  TIME29: EMERGENCY  SELECT30: EXTENDED  MENU31: FW  KEY  HOLD  TIME32: HALF  DEVIATION33: HOME  VFO34: HOME/REVERSE35: INT  MANUAL/AUTO36: INTERNET37: INTERNET  CODE38: INTERNET  KEY39: INTERNET  MODE40: INTERNET  SELECT41: LAMP42: LANGUAGE43: LCD  CONTRAST44: LCD  DIMMER45: LED  LIGHT46: LOCK47: MEMORY  FAST  STEP48: MEMORY  NAME49: MEMORY  PROTECTSET MODEEnables/Disables the receiver Front-end Attenuator.Setting of the Automatic Power-Off time.Select the Beep option during ARTSTM operation.Select the Polling Interval during ARTSTM operation.Enables/Disables the Memory Bank Link Scan.Stores Alpha-Numeric “Tag” for the Memory Bank.Enables/disables the Busy Channel Lock-Out feature.Enables/disables the Band-edge beeper while selecting the frequency by the DIAL knob.Adjust the Beep volume level.Create the Beep Melody for Bell ringer function.Enables/Disables the keypad beeper.Selects the number of Bell ringer repetitions.Enables/Disables the Bell ringer function and its sound selection.Enables/Disables the BUSY LED while the squelch is open.Shifting of CPU clock frequency.Program and activate the CW Identifier (used during ARTSTM operation).Enables/Disables the CW Learning feature.Select the CW tone pitch for the CW Learning, CW Training, and CW Identifier functions.Enables/Disables the CW Training feature.Indicates the DC Supply Voltage.Setting of the DCS code.Enables/Disables the “Inverted” DCS tone.Selects the DTMF Autodialer Delay Time.Enables/Disables the DTMF Autodial feature.Programming of the DTMF Autodialer.Selects the DTMF Autodialer Sending Speed.Enables/Disables the Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) feature.Sets the Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) operating mode and its transmit time.Select the alarms utilized when the Emergency function is engaged.Enables/Disables the extended Set Mode Menu.Set the duration that a secondary function of the [F/W] key (press and holding the [F/W] key)is held determines the function they activate.Reducing the Deviation level by 50 %.Enables/Disables the function of the VFO DIAL knob, while in the Home Channel mode.Selects the primary function of the [H/M] key (press the [H/M] key).Enables/Disables the DTMF Autodialer feature while operating using the Internet Connec-tion feature (WIRESTM).Enables/Disables the Internet Connection feature (WIRESTM).Selects the Access Number (DTMF digit) for the SRG operation of the Internet Connectionfeature (WIRESTM).Selects the primary function of the [INTERNET] key.Selects the operating mode of the Internet Connection feature (WIRESTM).Programming of the Access Number (DTMF code) for the FRG station of the WIRESTM (ornon WIRESTM Internet Link System) access.Selects the LCD/Keypad Lamp mode.Selects the language for the Set Mode selections.Setting of the Display contrast level.Setting of the Display brightness level.Illuminates the white LED light continuously (useful as emergency flashlight at night).Selects the Control Locking lockout combination.Selects the channel step for the fast channel selection mode while in the Memory Recallmode.Stores “Alpha-Numeric” tags for the Memory channels.Enables/Disables the Memory Write Protector.SET MODE ITEM FUNCTIONON / OFF0.5hour - 12.0hour / OFFIN RANGE / ALWAYS / OFF15sec / 25sec----ON / OFFON / OFFLEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 9 (LEVEL 5)--KEY & SCAN / KEY / OFF1Time - 20Times / CONTINUOUSOFF / BELL /USER BP1 / USER BP2 / USER BP3ON / OFFON / OFF----400 - 1000 Hz (50 Hz/step) (700 Hz)----104 standard DCS codes (DCS 023)RX-NORMAL, TX-NORMAL /RX-INVERT, TX-NORMAL /RX-BOTH, TX-NORMAL /RX-NORMAL, TX-INVERT /RX-INVERT, TX-INVERT /RX-BOTH, TX-INVERT50ms / 250ms / 450ms / 750ms / 1000msMANUAL / AUTO--50ms / 100msON / OFFINT 1min ~ INT 9min / INT10min / INT15min /INT20min / INT30min / INT40min / INT50min /CON 1min ~ CON 9min / CON10min /CON15min / CON20min / CON30min /CON40min / CON50min  (CON 5min)BEEP / STROBE / BEEP&STROBE /BEAM / BEEP&BEAM / CW / BEEP&CW /CW-ID TXON / OFFFW0.3sec / FW0.5sec / FW0.7sec /FW1.0sec / FW1.5secON / OFFDISABLE / ENABLEHOME / REVMANUAL / AUTOON / OFFDTMF 0 ~ DTMF 1, DTMF A ~ DTMF D,DTMF , DTMF # (DTMF 1)INTERNET  /  INTERNET SELECT  /SET MODEFRG  /  SRG--KEY 2sec - KEY10sec / CONTINUOUS /OFF (KEY 5sec)ENGLISH / JAPANESELEVEL 12 ~ LEVEL32 (LEVEL24)LEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 4--KEY / DIAL / KEY&DIAL / PTT / KEY&PTT /DIAL&PTT /  ALL10CH / 20CH / 50CH / 100CH--ON / OFFAVAILABLE VALUES(DEFALT: BOLD ITALIC)FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 127SET MODE50: MEMORY  SKIP51: MEMORY  WRITE52: MESSAGE  LIST53: MESSAGE  REGISTER54: MESSAGE  SELECT55: MIC  GAIN56: MONI/T-CALL57: MUTE58: OFF  TIMER59: ON  TIMER60: OPENING  MESSAGE61: PAGER  ANS-BACK62: PAGER  CODE-RX63: PAGER  CODE-TX64: PASSWORD65: PR FREQUENCY66: PRI  REVERT67: PRI  TIME68: PTT  DELAY69: RPT  ARS70: RPT  SHIFT71: RPT  SHIFT  FREQ72: RX  MODE73: SAVE  RX74: SAVE  TX75: SCAN  LAMP76: SCAN  RE-START77: SCAN  RESUME78: SENSOR  DISPLAY79: SENSOR   INFO80: SET  MODE  CSR81: SET  MODE  FORMAT82: SMART  SEARCH83: S-METER  SYMBOL84: SPEC-ANALYZER85: SQL  LEVEL86: SQL  S-METER87: SQL  SPLIT88: SQL  TYPE89: STEP  FREQUENCY90: TIME  SET91: TONE  FREQUENCY92: TONE-SRCH  MUTE93: TONE-SRCH  SPEED94: TOT95: VFO  MODE96: VFO  SKIP97: VIBRATOR98: VIBRATOR  MODE99: VOLUME  MODE100: WX  ALERTSelects the Memory Scan channel-selection mode.Determines the method of selecting channels for Memory Storage.Programming a Member List for the Message feature.Selects your Personal ID for the Message feature.Programming a Message for the Message feature.Adjusts the microphone gain level.Selects the MONI key (just below the PTT switch) function.Adjusts the receiver audio output level when the MUTE function was activated.Set the OFF Timer time.Set the ON Timer time.Selects the Opening Message that appears when the radio is powered on.Enables/Disables the Answer Back function of the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch.Sets the Receiver Pager Code for the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch.Sets the Transmitting Pager Code for the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch.Programming and activating the Password feature.Program the CTCSS Tone Frequency for the User Programmed Reverse CTCSS Decoder.Enables/Disables the Priority Revert feature.Selects the time between the Priority (Dual Watch) channel checks, when the feature isactive.Selects the time delay before the carrier is transmitted, when the PTT switch is pressed.Enables/Disables the Automatic Repeater Shift function.Sets the Repeater Shift Direction.Sets the magnitude of the Repeater Shift.Sets the receiving mode.Selects the Receive-mode Battery Saver interval (“sleep” ratio).Enables/Disables the Transmitter Battery Saver.Enables/Disables the Scan Lamp (while scanner is paused).Selects the Scan Re-start Delay time.Selects the Scan Resume mode.Selects the sensor information when the transceiver is operating in the “Mono” band modewith large characters.Indicates the Information of the internal sensors.Selects the Set Mode Cursor.Selects the display format of the Set Mode operation.Selects the Smart Search Sweep mode.Selects the S- & TX PO meter Symbol.Selects the Spectrum Analyzer sweep mode.Sets the Squelch threshold level.Adjusts the Squelch threshold level to the S-meter level.Enables/disables split CTCSS/DCS coding.Selects the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder mode.Setting of the DIAL frequency steps.Sets the Clock time.Setting of the CTCSS Tone FrequencyEnables/Disables the receiver audio output while the Tone Search Scanner is activated.Selects the Tone Search Scanner speed.Setting of the TOT timeSelects or disables the VFO band edge limiting for the current band.Setting My Band.Enables/Disables the Vibrator function.Selects the vibration mode of the Vibrator function.Select the [VOL] key function.Enables/Disables the Weather Alert FeatureOFF / SKIP / ONLYNEXT / LOWER------LEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 9 (LEVEL 5)MONI / T-CALL1MUTE 30%, MUTE 50%,MUTE 100%, or OFF----NORMAL / OFF / DC / MESSAGEON / OFF------300Hz ~ 3000Hz (1000Hz/step) (1600Hz)ON / OFF0.1sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step) or1.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step) (5.0sec)OFF / 20ms / 50ms / 100ms / 200msON / OFFSIMPLEX / -RPT / +RPT0.000MHz ~ 150.000MHz (50 kHz/step)2AUTO / NFM / AM0.2sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step),1.0sec ~ 9.5sec (0.5sec/step), or10.0sec ~ 60.0sec (5sec/step)ON / OFFON / OFF0.1sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step) or1.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step) (2.0sec)2.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step) /BUSY /HOLD (5.0sec)DC / TEMP / WAVE / BARO / ALTI / OFF--Nine patternsLIST / ITEMSINGLE / CONTINUOUSFour patterns1Time / CONTINUOUS / Full TimeLEVEL 0 ~ LEVEL 15 (LEVEL 1)OFF / LEVEL 0 ~ LEVEL 9OFF / ONOFF / TONE / TONE SQL / DCS /REV TONE / PR FREQ / PAGER / MESSAGEAUTO / 5.0 / 6.25 / 8.33 / 9.0 / 10.0 / 12.5 /15.0 / 20.0 / 25.0 / 50.0 / 100.0 kHz--50 standard CTCSS tones (100.0Hz)ON / OFFFAST (2.5 tone/sec) / SLOW (1.25 tone/sec)OFF / 0.5min ~ 10.0min (0.5min/step)(3.0min)ALL / BAND--OFF / BUSY / SIGNALINGMODE1 / MODE2 / MODE3NORMAL / AUTO BACKON / OFFSET MODE ITEM FUNCTION AVAILABLE VALUES(DEFALT: UNDERLINED BOLD)1: Depends on the transceiver version.2: Depends on the operating band and transceiver version.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL128SET MODEREPEATER SETTINGEnables/Disables the Automatic Repeater Shift function.Sets the Repeater Shift Direction.Sets the magnitude of the Repeater Shift.CTCSS/DCS/EPCS SETTINGSelects the number of Bell ringer repetitions.Enables/Disables the Bell ringer function and its sound selection.Setting of the DCS code.Enables/Disables the “Inverted” DCS tone.Enables/Disables the Answer Back function of the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch.Sets the Receiver Pager Code for the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch.Sets the Transmitting Pager Code for the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch.Program the CTCSS Tone Frequency for the User Programmed Reverse CTCSS Decoder.Enables/Disables split CTCSS/DCS coding.Selects the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder mode.Setting of the CTCSS Tone FrequencyEnables/Disables the receiver audio output while the Tone Search Scanner is activated.Selects the Tone Search Scanner speed.ARTSTM SETTINGSelect the Beep option during ARTSTM operation.Select the Polling Interval during ARTSTM operation.Program and activate the CW Identifier (used during ARTSTM operation).MEMORY SETTINGEnables/Disables the Memory Bank Link Scan.Stores Alpha-Numeric “Tag” for the Memory Bank.Selects the channel step for the fast channel selection mode while in the Memory Recall mode.Stores “Alpha-Numeric” tags for the Memory channels.Enables/Disables the Memory Write Protector.Determines the method of selecting channels for Memory Storage.SCAN SETTINGSelects the Memory Scan channel-selection mode.Enables/Disables the Scan Lamp (while scanner is paused).Selects the Scan Re-start Delay time.Selects the Receive-mode Battery Saver interval (“sleep” ratio).Enables/Disables the Priority Revert feature.Selects the time between the Priority (Dual Watch) channel checks, when the feature is active.BATTERY SAVING SETTINGSetting of the Automatic Power-Off time.Enables/Disables the BUSY LED while the squelch is open.Selects the Receive-mode Battery Saver interval (“sleep” ratio).Enables/Disables the Transmitter Battery Saver.MESSAGE SETTINGProgramming a Member List for the Message feature.Selects your Personal ID for the Message feature.Programming a Message for the Message feature.WIRESTM SETTINGEnables/Disables the DTMF Autodialer feature while using the Internet Connection feature (WIRESTM).Enables/Disables the Internet Connection feature (WIRESTM).Selects the Access Number (DTMF digit) for SRG operation of the Internet Connection feature (WIRESTM).Selects the primary function of the [INTERNET]  key.Selects the operating mode of the Internet Connection feature (WIRESTM).Programming of the Access Number (DTMF code) for the FRG station of the WIRESTM (or non WIRESTMInternet Link System) access.EAI SETTINGEnables/Disables the Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) feature.Sets the Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) operating mode and its transmit time.Select the alarms utilized when the Emergency function is engaged.SET69:70:71:SET12:13:21:22:61:62:63:65:87:88:91:92:93:SET3:4:16:SET5:6:47:48:49:51:SET50:75:76:77:66:67:SET2:14:73:74:SET52:53:54:SET35:36:37:38:39:40:SET27:28:29: MODE ITEMRPT ARSRPT SHIFTRPT SHIFT FREQ MODE ITEMBELL RINGERBELL SELECTDCS CODEDCS INVERSIONPAGER ANS-BACKPAGER CODE-RXPAGER CODE-TXPR FREQUENCYSQL SPLITSQL TYPETONE FREQUENCYTONE-SRCH MUTETONE-SRCH SPEED MODE ITEMARTS BEEPARTS INTERVALCW ID MODE ITEMBANK LINKBANK NAMEMEMORY FAST STEPMEMORY NAMEMEMORY PROTECTMEMORY WRITE MODE ITEMMEMORY SKIPSCAN LAMPSCAN RE-STARTSCAN RESUMEPRI REVERTPRI TIME MODE ITEMAPOBUSY LEDSAVE RXSAVE TX MODE ITEMMESSAGE LISTMESSAGE REGISTERMESSAGE SELECT MODE ITEMINT MANUAL/AUTOINTERNETINTERNET CODEINTERNET KEYINTERNET MODEINTERNET SELECT MODE ITEMEAIEAI TIMEEMERGENCY SELECTAVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)ON / OFFSIMPLEX / -RPT / +RPT0.000MHz ~ 150.000MHz (50 kHz/step)1AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)1time - 20times / CONTINUOUSOFF / BELL / USER BP1 / USER BP2 /USER BP3104 standard DCS codes (DCS 023)RX-NORMAL, TX-NORMAL /RX-INVERT, TX-NORMAL /RX-BOTH, TX-NORMAL /RX-NORMAL, TX-INVERT /RX-INVERT, TX-INVERT /  RX-BOTH, TX-INVERTON / OFF----300 Hz ~ 3000 Hz (1000 Hz/step) (1600 Hz)OFF / ONOFF / TONE / TONE SQL / DCS / REV TONE /PR FREQ / PAGER / MESSAGE50 standard CTCSS tones (100.0Hz)ON / OFFFAST (2.5 tone/sec) / SLOW (1.25 tone/sec)AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)IN RANGE / ALWAYS / OFF15sec / 25sec--AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)----10CH / 20CH / 50CH / 100CH--ON / OFFNEXT / LOWERAVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)OFF / SKIP / ONLYON / OFF0.1sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step) or1.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step) (5.0sec)2.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step) /BUSY / HOLD (5.0sec)ON / OFF0.1sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step) or1.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step) (5.0sec)AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)0.5hour - 12.0hour / OFFON / OFF0.2sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step),1.0sec ~ 9.5sec (0.5sec/step), or10.0sec ~ 60.0sec (5sec/step)ON / OFFAVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)------AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)MANUAL / AUTOON / OFFDTMF 0 ~ DTMF 9, DTMF A ~ DTMF D, DTMF ,or DTMF # (DTMF 1)INTERNET / INT SELECT / SET MODEFRG / SRG--AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)ON / OFFINT 1min ~ INT 9min, INT10min, INT15min,INT20min, INT30min, INT40min, INT50min,CON 1min ~ CON 9min, CON10min, CON15min,CON20min, CON30min, CON40min, CON50min,(CON 5min)BEEP / STROBE / BEEP & STROBE / BEAM /BEEP & BEAM / CW / BEEP & CW / CW-ID TXFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 129SET MODEVIBRATOR SETTINGEnables/Disables the Vibrator function.Selects the vibration mode of the Vibrator function.DTMF SETTINGSelects the DTMF Autodialer Delay Time.Enables/Disables the DTMF Autodial feature.Programming the DTMF Autodialer.Selects the DTMF Autodialer Sending Speed.SWITCH/KNOB SETTINGSet the duration that a secondary function of the [F/W] key (press and holding the [F/W] key) is helddetermines the function they activate.Selects the function of the [H/M] key.Selects the Control Locking lockout combination.Selects the MONI key (just below the PTT switch) function.Selects the time delay before the carrier is transmitted, when the PTT switch is pressed.Select the [VOL] key function.DISPLAY SETTINGIndicates the DC Supply Voltage.Selects the LCD/Keypad Lamp mode.Setting the Display contrast level.Setting the Display brightness level.Illuminates the white LED light continuously (useful as emergency flashlight at night).Selects the Opening Message that appears when the radio is powered on.Selects the sensor information when the transceiver is operating in the “Mono” band mode with largecharacter.Displays internal sensor information.Selects the S- & TX PO meter Symbol.Selects the Spectrum Analyzer sweep mode.BEEP SETTINGEnables/Disables the Band-edge beeper while selecting the frequency with the DIAL knob.Adjust the Beep volume level.Create the Beep Melody for Bell ringer function.Enables/Disables the keypad beeper.Select the CW tone pitch for the CW Learning, CW Training, and CW Identifier functions.MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGEnables/Disables the receiver Front-end Attenuator.Enables/Disables the Busy Channel Lock-Out feature.Shifting of CPU clock frequency.Enables/Disables the CW Learning feature.Enables/Disables the CW Training feature.Enables/Disables the extended Set Mode Menu.Reducing the Deviation level by 50 %.Enables/Disables the function of the VFO DIAL knob, while in the Home Channel mode.Selects the language for the Set Mode selections.Adjusts the microphone gain level.Adjusts the receiver audio output level when the MUTE function was activated.Set the OFF Timer time.Set the ON Timer time.Programming and activating the Password feature.Sets the receiving mode.Selects the Set Mode Cursor.Selects the display format of the Set Mode operation.Selects the Smart Search Sweep mode.Sets the Squelch threshold level.Adjusts the Squelch threshold level to the S-meter level.Setting of the DIAL frequency steps.Sets the Clock time.Setting of the TOT timeSelects or disables the VFO band edge limiting for the current band.Set My Band.Enables/Disables the Weather Alert FeatureSET97:98:SET23:24:25:26:SET31:34:46:56:68:99:SET20:41:43:44:45:60:78:79:83:84:SET8:9:10:11:18:SET1:7:15:17:19:30:32:33:42:55:57:58:59:64:72:80:81:82:886:89:90:95:96:97:100: MODE ITEMVIBRATORVIBRATOR MODE MODE ITEMDTMF DELAYDTMF MANUAL/AUTODTMF SELECTDTMF SPEED MODE ITEMFW KEY HOLD TIMEHOME/REVERSELOCKMONI/T-CALLPTT DELAYVOLUME MODE MODE ITEMDC VOLTAGELAMPLCD CONTRASTLCD DIMMERLED LIGHTOPENING MESSAGESENSOR DISPLAYSENSOR INFORMATIONS-METER SYMBOLSPEC-ANALYZER MODE ITEMBEEP EDGEBEEP LEVELBEEP MELODYBEEP SELECTCW PITCH MODE ITEMANTENNA ATTBCLOCLOCK SHIFTCW LEARNINGCW TRAININGEXTENDED MENUHALF DEVIATIONHOME VFOLANGUAGEMIC GAINMUTEOFF TIMERON TIMERPASSWORDRX MODESET MODE CSRSET MODE FORMATSMART SEARCHSQL LEVELSQL S-METERSTEP FREQUENCYTIME SETTOTVFO MODEVFO SKIPWX ALERTAVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)OFF / BUSY / SIGNALINGMODE1 / MODE2 / MODE3AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)50ms / 250ms / 450ms / 750ms / 1000msMANUAL / AUTO--50mS / 100mSAVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)0.3sec / 0.5sec / 0.7sec / 1.0sec / 1.5secHOME / REVKEY / DIAL / KEY&DIAL / PTT / KEY&PTT /DIAL&PTT / ALLMONI / T-CALL2OFF / 20ms / 50ms / 100ms / 200msNORMAL / AUTO BACKAVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)--KEY 2sec - KEY 10sec / CONTINUOUS /OFF (KEY 5sec)LEVEL 12 ~ LEVEL32 (LEVEL24)LEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 4--NORMAL / OFF / DC / MESSAGEDC / TEMP / WAVE / BARO / ALTI / WX / OFF--Four patterns1Time / Continuous / Full TimeAVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)ON / OFFLEVEL 1 - LEVEL 9 (LEVEL 5)--KEY & SCAN / KEY / OFF400 - 1000 Hz (50 Hz/step) (700 Hz)AVAILABLE VALUES (DEFAULT: BOLD ITALIC)ON / OFFON / OFFON / OFF----ON / OFFON / OFFDISABLE / ENABLEENGLISH / JAPANESELEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 9 (LEVEL 5)MUTE 30%,MUTE 50%, MUTE 100%, or OFF------AUTO / NFM / AM / WFMNine patternsLIST / ITEMSINGLE / CONTINUOUSLEVEL 0 ~ LEVEL 15 (LEVEL 1)OFF / LEVEL 0 ~ LEVEL 9AUTO / 5.0 /6.25 / 8.33 / 9.0 / 10.0 / 12.5 / 15.0 /20.0 / 25.0 / 50.0 / 100 kHz--OFF / 0.5min ~ 10.0min (0.5min/step)  (3.0min)ALL / BAND--ON / OFF1: Depends on the operating band and transceiver version.2: Depends on the transceiver version.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL130SET MODE ITEM 1: ANTENNA ATTFunction: Enables/Disables the receiver Front-end Attenuator.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFNote: This Menu Item can select and set to each operating band and frequency bandindividually.SET MODE ITEM 2: APOFunction: Setting of the Automatic Power-Off time.Available Values: 0.5hour ~ 12.0hour / OFFDefault: OFFSET MODE ITEM 3: ARTS BEEPFunction: Select the Beep option during ARTS operation.Available Values: IN RANGE / ALWAYS / OFFDefault: IN RANGEIN RANGE: Beeps sound only when the radio first detects that you are within range.ALWAYS: Beeps sound every time a polling transmission is received from the otherstation (every 15 or 25 seconds when in range).OFF: No alert beeps sound.SET MODE ITEM 4: ARTS INTERVALFunction: Select the Polling Interval during ARTS operation.Available Values: 15sec / 25secDefault: 25secThis setting determines how often the other station will be polled during ARTS operation.SET MODE ITEM 5: BANK LINKFunction: Enables/Disables the Memory Bank Link Scan. See page ?? for details.SET MODE ITEM 6: BANK NAMEFunction: Stores Alpha-Numeric “Tag” for the Memory Bank. See page ?? for details.SET MODE ITEM 7: BCLOFunction: Enables/Disables the Busy Channel Lock-Out feature.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFSET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 131SET MODE ITEM 8: BEEP EDGEFunction: Enables/Disables the Band-edge beeper while selecting the frequency by theDIAL knob.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFNote: When this Set Mode Item is set to “ON”, a beep will sound when the frequencyreaches the band edge while selecting the VFO frequency with the DIAL knob.SET MODE ITEM 9: BEEP LEVELFunction: Adjust the Beep volume level.Available Values: LEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 9Default: LEVEL 5SET MODE ITEM 10: BEEP MELODYFunction: Create the Beep Melody for Bell ringer function. See page 43 for details.SET MODE ITEM 11: BEEP SELECTFunction: Enables/Disables the keypad beeper.Available Values: KEY & SCAN / KEY / OFFDefault: KEY & SCANKEY & SCAN: The beeper sounds when you press a key or when the scanner stops.KEY: The beeper sounds when you press a key.OFF: The beeper is disabled.SET MODE ITEM 12: BELL RINGERFunction: Selects the number of Bell ringer repetitions.Available Values: 1Time ~ 20Times / CONTINUOUSDefault: 1TimeSET MODE ITEM 13: BELL SELECTFunction: Enables/Disables the Bell ringer function and its sound selection.Available Values: OFF / BELL / USER BP1 / USER BP2 / USER BP3Default: OFFSET MODE ITEM 14: BUSY LEDFunction: Enables/Disables the BUSY LED while the squelch is open.Available Values:  ON / OFFDefault: ONSET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL132SET MODESET MODE ITEM 15: CLOCK SHIFTFunction: Shifting of CPU clock frequency.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFNote: This function is only used to move a spurious response “birdie”, should it fall on adesired frequency.SET MODE ITEM 16: CW IDFunction: Program and activate the CW Identifier (used during ARTS™ operation). Seepage xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 17: CW LEARNINGFunction: Enables/Disables the CW Learning feature. See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 18: CW PITCHFunction: Select the CW tone pitch for the CW Learning, CW Training, and CW Identi-fier functions.Available Values: 400 ~ 1000 Hz (50 Hz/step)Default: 700HzSET MODE ITEM 19: CW TRAININGFunction: Enables/Disables the CW Training feature. See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 20: DC VOLTAGEFunction: Indicates the DC Supply Voltage.SET MODE ITEM 21: DCS CODEFunction: Setting of the DCS code.Available Values: 104 standard DCS codes.Default: DCS 023SET MODE SELECTION DETAILSDCS CODE023 025 026 031 032 036 043 047 051 053054 065 071 072 073 074 114 115 116 122125 131 132 134 143 145 152 155 156 162165 172 174 205 212 223 225 226 243 244245 246 251 252 255 261 263 265 266 271274 306 311 315 325 331 332 343 346 351356 364 365 371 411 412 413 423 431 432445 446 452 454 455 462 464 465 466 503506 516 523 526 532 546 565 606 612 624627 631 632 654 662 664 703 712 723 731732 734 743 754 – – – – – –FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 133SET MODESET MODE ITEM 22: DCS INVERSIONFunction: Enables/Disables the “Inverted” DCS tone.Available Values: RX-NORMAL, TX-NORMAL / RX-INVERT, TX-NORMAL /RX-BOTH, TX-NORMAL / RX-NORMAL, TX-INVERT / RX-INVERT, TX-INVERT /RX-BOTH, TX-INVERTDefault: RX-NORMAL, TX-NORMALRX-NORMAL, TX-NORMAL: Receive and transmit the Normal DCS Tone.RX-INVERT, TX-NORMAL: Receive the Inverted DCS Tone and transmit the NormalDCS Tone.RX-BOTH, TX-NORMAL: Receive both Normal and Inverted DCS Tones and trans-mit the Normal DCS Tone.RX-NORMAL, TX-INVERT: Receive the Normal DCS Tone and transmit the InvertedDCS Tone.RX-INVERT, TX-INVERT: Receive and transmit the Inverted DCS Tone.RX-BOTH, TX-INVERT: Receive both Normal and Inverted DCS Tones and trans-mit the Inverted DCS Tone.SET MODE ITEM 23: DTMF DELAYFunction: Selects the DTMF Autodialer Delay Time.Available Values: 50ms / 250ms / 450ms / 750ms / 1000msDefault: 450msSET MODE ITEM 24: DTMF MANUAL/AUTOFunction: Enables/Disables the DTMF Autodial feature.Available Values: MANUAL / AUTODefault: MANUALSET MODE ITEM 25: DTMF SELECTFunction: Programming of the DTMF Autodialer. See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 26: DTMF SPEEDFunction: Selects the DTMF Autodialer Sending Speed.Available Values: 50mS / 100mSDefault: 50mSSET MODE ITEM 27: EAIFunction: Enables/Disables the Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) feature.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFSET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL134SET MODESET MODE ITEM 28: EAI TIMEFunction: Sets the Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) operating mode and its transmit time.Available Values: INT 1min ~ INT 9min / INT10min / INT15min / INT20min /INT30min / INT40min / INT50min / CON 1min ~ CON 9min / CON10min /CON15min / CON20min / CON30min / CON40min / CON50minDefault: CON 5minINT: Interval ModeCON: Continuous ModeSET MODE ITEM 29: EMERGENCY SELECTFunction: Select the alarms utilized when the Emergency function is engaged.Available Values: BEEP / STROBE / BEEP&STROBE / BEAM / BEEP&BEAM / CW /BEEP&CW / CW-ID TXDefault: BEEP & STROBEBEEP: Loud “Alarm” sounds.STROBE: Flashes the white LED light.BEEP&STROBE: Loud “Alarm” sounds along with flashing of the white LED light.BEAM: The white LED light glows continuously.BEEP&BEAM: Loud “Alarm” sounds and the white LED light glows continuously.CW: The white LED light flashes according to the programmed Emer-gency message (Morse Code) at a rate of five words per minute.BEEP&CW: Sounds tones via the speaker, and flashes the white LED light, ac-cording to the programmed Emergency message (Morse Code) at arate of five words per minute.CW-ID TX: Transmits the programmed Emergency message (Morse Code) andflashes the white LED light, according to the programmed Emergencymessage (Morse Code) on the air beginning one minute after activa-tion of the Emergency function.: The internationally-recognized Morse Code “S.O.S” message (• • • – – – • • •) isprogrammed at the factory for the Emergency message.Here’s how to program the Emergency Message:1. Press the M key to display any previously-stored emergency message.2. Press and hold the h key for two seconds to clear any previous emergency mes-sage, if desired.3. Rotate the DIAL knob, or press one of the keyboard keys, to select the first letter/number of the message.Example 1: Rotate the DIAL knob to select any of the 39 available characters.Example 2: Press the 2 key repeatedly to toggle among the four available charac-ters associated with that key: A  B  C  2SET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 135SET MODE4. Press the M key to move to the next character, if needed.5. Repeat previous steps 3 and 4 to complete the message (up to 16 characters).6. If you make a mistake, press the B key to backspace the cursor; now re-enter thecorrect letter/number.7. Press and hold the h key for two seconds to delete all data after the cursor that mayhave been previously stored erroneously.8. When you have entered the message, press the M key again to confirm the mes-sage, then press the PTT switch to save the settings and exit to normal operation.SET MODE ITEM 30: EXTENDED MENUFunction: Enables/Disables the extended Set Mode Menu.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFSET MODE ITEM 31: FW KEY HOLD TIMEFunction: Set the duration time that the f key must be held to activate the secondaryfunction.Available Values: FW0.3sec / FW0.5sec / FW0.7sec / FW1.0sec / FW1.5secDefault: FW0.5secSET MODE ITEM 32: HALF DEVIATIONFunction: Reducing the Deviation level by 50 %.Available Values: ON/OFFDefault: OFFSET MODE ITEM 33: HOME VFOFunction: Enables/Disables the function of the VFO DIAL knob, while in the Home Chan-nel mode.Available Values: DISABLE / ENABLEDefault: ENABLESET MODE ITEM 34: HOME/REVERSEFunction: Selects the function of the h key.Available Values: HOME / REVDefault: REVHOME: Pressing the h key instantly recalls a favorite “Home” channel.REV: Pressing the h key reverses transmit and receive frequencies during repeateroperation.SET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL136SET MODESET MODE ITEM 35: INT MANUAL/AUTOFunction: Enables/Disables the DTMF Autodialer feature while using the Internet Con-nection feature (WIRESTM).Available Values: MANUAL / AUTODefault: MANUALSET MODE ITEM 36: INTERNETFunction: Enables/Disables the Internet Connection feature (WIRESTM).Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFSET MODE ITEM 37: INTERNET CODEFunction: Selects the Access Number (DTMF digit) for SRG operation of the InternetConnection feature (WIRESTM).Available Values: DTMF 0 ~ DTMF 9, DTMF A ~ DTMF D, DTMF , or DTMF #Default: DTMF 1SET MODE ITEM 38: INTERNET KEYFunction: Selects the primary function of the d key.Available Values: INTERNET / INTERNET SELECT / SET MODEDefault: INTERNETINTERNET: The d key Enables/Disables the internet feature.INTERNET SELECT: The d key recalls the Internet Access Number (SRG) or AccessString (FRG). (SRG) or (FRG) is determined via Set Mode Item39: INTERNET MODE.SET MODE: The d key is the Short-cut path to recall one of the Set ModeItems. See page xx for programming.SET MODE ITEM 39: INTERNET MODEFunction: Selects the operating mode of the Internet Connection feature (WIRESTM).Available Values: FRG / SRGDefault: SRGSET MODE ITEM 40: INTERNET SELECTFunction: Programming of the Access Number (DTMF code) for the FRG station of theWIRESTM (or non WIRESTM Internet Link System) access.See page xx for details.SET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 137SET MODESET MODE ITEM 41: LAMPFunction: Selects the LCD/Keypad Lamp mode.Available Values: KEY 2sec ~ KEY10sec / CONTINUOUS / OFFDefault: KEY 5secKEY 2sec ~ KEY10sec: Illuminates the LCD/Keypad for the selected time, when any keyis pressed.CONTINUOUS: Illuminates the LCD/Keypad continuously.OFF: Disables the LCD/Keypad illuminationSET MODE ITEM 42: LANGUAGEFunction: Selects the language for the Set Mode selections.Available Values: ENGLISH / JAPANESEDefault: ENGLISHSET MODE ITEM 43: LCD CONTRASTFunction: Setting of the Display contrast level.Available Values: LEVEL 12 ~ LEVEL32Default: LEVEL24SET MODE ITEM 44: LCD DIMMERFunction: Setting of the Display brightness level.Available Values: LEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 4Default: LEVEL 4SET MODE ITEM 45: LED LIGHTFunction: Illuminates the white LED light continuously (useful as emergency flashlightat night).SET MODE ITEM 46: LOCKFunction: Selects the combination of key buttons that are locked out by the LOCK func-tion.Available Values: KEY / DIAL / KEY&DIAL / PTT / KEY&PTT / DIAL&PTT / ALLDefault: KEY&DIALSET MODE ITEM 47: MEMORY FAST STEPFunction: Selects the channel step for the fast channel selection mode while in the MemoryRecall mode.Available Values: 10CH / 20CH / 50CH / 100CHDefault: 10CHSET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL138SET MODESET MODE ITEM 48: MEMORY NAMEFunction: Stores “Alpha-Numeric” tags for the Memory channels.See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 49: MEMORY PROTECTFunction: Enables/Disables the Memory Write Protector.Available Values: ON/OFFDefault: OFFNote: When this Set Mode Item is set to “ON”, the memory write operation is ignored.SET MODE ITEM 50: MEMORY SKIPFunction: Selects the Memory Scan channel-selection mode.Available Values: OFF / SKIP / ONLYDefault: OFFOFF: All memory channels will be scanned (the “flag” will be ignored).SKIP: The scanner will “skip” the flagged channels during scanning.ONLY: The scanner will only scan channels that are flagged (Preferential Scan List).SET MODE ITEM 51: MEMORY WRITEFunction: Determines the method of selecting channels for Memory Storage.Available Values: NEXT / LOWERDefault: NEXTNEXT: Stores the data into the memory channel, which is next highest from the last-stored memory channel.LOWER: Stores the data into the next-available “free” channel.SET MODE ITEM 52: MESSAGE LISTFunction: Programming a Member List for the Message feature.See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 53: MESSAGE REGISTERFunction: Selects your Personal ID for the Message feature.See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 54: MESSAGE SELECTFunction: Programming a Message for the Message feature.See page xx for details.SET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 139SET MODESET MODE ITEM 55: MIC GAINFunction: Adjusts the microphone gain level.Available Values: LEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 9Default: LEVEL 5SET MODE ITEM 56: MONI/T-CALLFunction: Selects the e key (just below the PTT switch) function.Available Values: MONI/T-CALLDefault: Depends on the transceiver version.MONI: Pressing the e key causes the Noise/Tone Squelch to be over-ridden, allow-ing you to listen for weak (or non-encoded) signals.T-CALL: Pressing the e key activates a 1750-Hz burst tone, used for repeater access inmany countries.SET MODE ITEM 57: MUTEFunction: Adjusts the receiver audio output level when the MUTE function was acti-vated.Available Values: MUTE 30%, MUTE 50%, MUTE 100%, or OFFDefault: OFFSET MODE ITEM 58: OFF TIMERFunction: Set the OFF Timer time.The OFF Timer turns the radio off at the programmed time. See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 59: ON TIMERFunction: Set the ON Timer time.The ON Timer turns the radio on at the programmed time. See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 60: OPENING MESSAGEFunction: Selects the Opening Message that appears when the radio is powered on.Available Values: NORMAL / OFF / DC / MESSAGEDefault: NORMALNORMAL: Appears the Vertex Standard Logo.OFF: No Opening Message.DC: Appears the Vertex Standard Logo with the current time and the powersupply voltage.MESSAGE: The Vertex Standard Logo appears along with your message. See the fol-lowing procedure for creating a message.Here’s how to program the Opening Message.1. Select this Set Mode Item to “MESSAGE”.2. Press the M key to enable programming of the Opening Message. You will noticeSET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL140the first character entry location blinking.3. Rotate the DIAL knob, or press one of the keyboard keys, to select the first letter,number, or symbol of the message.Example 1: Rotate the DIAL knob to select any of the 61 available characters.Example 2: Press the 2 key repeatedly to toggle among the seven available char-acters associated with that key: a  b  c  2  A  B  C4. Press the M key to move to the next character, if needed.5. Repeat previous steps 3 and 4 to complete the message (up to 16 characters).6. If you make a mistake, press the B key to back-space the cursor; now re-enter thecorrect letter, number, or symbol.7. When you have entered the desired Opening Message, press the m key to save thenew settings.SET MODE ITEM 61: PAGER ANS-BACKFunction: Enables/Disables the Answer Back function of the Enhanced CTCSS Paging &Code Squelch.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFSET MODE ITEM 62: PAGER CODE-RXFunction: Sets the Receiver Pager Code for the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & Code Squelch.See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 63: PAGER CODE-TXFunction: Sets the Transmitting Pager Code for the Enhanced CTCSS Paging & CodeSquelch.See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 64: PASSWORDFunction: Programming and activating the Password feature.See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 65: PR FREQUENCYFunction: Program the CTCSS Tone Frequency for the User Programmed Reverse CTCSSDecoder.Available Values: 300 Hz ~ 3000 Hz (100 Hz/step)Default: 1600 HzSET MODE ITEM 66: PRI REVERTFunction: Enables/Disables the Priority Revert feature.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFSET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 141SET MODE ITEM 67: PRI TIMEFunction: Selects the time between the Priority (Dual Watch) channel checks, when thefeature is active.Available Values: 0.1sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step) or 1.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step)Default: 5.0secSET MODE ITEM 68: PTT DELAYFunction: Selects the time delay before the carrier is transmitted, when the PTT switch ispressed.Available Values: OFF / 20ms / 50ms / 100ms / 200msDefault: OFFSET MODE ITEM 69: RPT ARSFunction: Enables/Disables the Automatic Repeater Shift function.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: ONSET MODE ITEM 70: RPT SHIFTFunction: Sets the Repeater Shift Direction.Available Values: SIMPLEX / –RPT / +RPTDefault: SIMPLEXSET MODE ITEM 71: RPT SHIFT FREQFunction: Sets the magnitude of the Repeater Shift.Available Values: 0.000MHz ~ 150.000MHz (50 kHz/step)Default: Depends on the operating band and transceiver version.SET MODE ITEM 72: RX MODEFunction: Sets the receiving mode.Available Values: AUTO / NFM / AMDefault: AUTO (Mode automatically changes according to operating frequency).SET MODE ITEM 73: SAVE RXFunction: Selects the Receive-mode Battery Saver interval (“sleep” ratio).Available Values: 0.2sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step), 1.0sec ~ 9.5sec (0.5sec/step), or 10.0sec~ 60.0sec (5sec/step)Default: 0.2secSET MODE ITEM 74: SAVE TXFunction: Enables/Disables the Transmitter Battery Saver.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFSET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL142SET MODE ITEM 75: SCAN LAMPFunction: Enables/Disables the Scan Lamp (while scanner is paused).Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: ONSET MODE ITEM 76: SCAN RE-STARTFunction: Selects the Scan Re-start Delay time.Available Values: 0.1sec ~ 0.9sec (0.1sec/step) or 1.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step)Default: 2.0secSET MODE ITEM 77: SCAN RESUMEFunction: Selects the Scan Resume mode.Available Values: 2.0sec ~ 10.0sec (0.5sec/step) /BUSY / HOLDDefault: 5.0sec2.0sec - 10.0sec: The scanner will halt on a signal it encounters, and will hold there forthe selected resume time. If you do not take action to disable the scannerwithin that time period, the scanner will resume even if the station is stillactive.BUSY: The scanner will halt on a signal it encounters. When the signal drops,the scanner will resume. The Scan resume time (default 2 seconds) iscontrolled set by the Set Mode Item 76: SCAN RE-START.HOLD: The scanner will halt on a signal it encounters. It will not restart auto-matically; you must manually re-initiate scanning if you wish to resume.SET MODE ITEM 78: SENSOR DISPLAYFunction: Selects the sensor information when the transceiver is operating in the “Mono”band mode with large characters.Available Values: DC / TEMP/ OFFDefault: DCDC: Indicates the battery voltage and battery type.TEMP: Indicates the current temperature inside the transceiver’s case.OFF: Disables the sensor information (Indicates the “Current Time” only).SET MODE ITEM 79: SENSOR INFOFunction: Indicates the information of the internal sensors.SET MODE ITEM 80: SET MODE CSRFunction: Selects the Set Mode Cursor.Available Values: nine patterns (  /   /   /   /   /   /   /   /  )Default: SET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 143SET MODE ITEM 81: SET MODE FORMATFunction: Selects the display format of the Set Mode operation.Available Values: LIST / ITEMDefault: LISTSET MODE ITEM 82: SMART SEARCHFunction: Selects the Smart Search Sweep mode.Available Values: SINGLE / CONTINUOUSDefault: SINGLESINGLE: The transceiver sweeps the current band once in each direction startingon the current frequency. All channels where activity is present (up to15 in each direction) are loaded into the Smart Search memories. Whetheror not all 31 memories are filled, the search stops after one sweep ineach direction.CONTINUOUS: The transceiver makes a sweep in each direction as with the “SINGLE”mode, but if all 31 channels are not filled after the first sweep, the radiocontinues sweeping until they are all filled.SET MODE ITEM 83: S-METER SYMBOLFunction: Selects the S- & TX PO meter Symbol.Available Values: Four patterns ( ,  ,  , or  )Default: SET MODE ITEM 84: SPEC-ANALYZERFunction: Selects the Spectrum Analyzer sweep mode.Available Values: 1Time / CONTINUOUS / Full TimeDefault: 1time1Time: The receiver sweeps the current band once.CONTINUOUS: The receiver sweeps the current band repeatedly until the Spectrum Ana-lyzer is turned off.Full Time: This mode is activated similar to a “Continuous” mode. However, thetransceiver outputs audio on the center frequency () through the speakerwhen Spectrum Analyzer is activated.SET MODE ITEM 85: SQL LEVELFunction: Sets the Squelch threshold level.Available Values: LEVEL 0 ~ LEVEL 15Default: LEVEL 1SET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL144SET MODE ITEM 86: SQL S-METERFunction: Adjusts the Squelch threshold level to the S-meter level.Available Values: OFF / LEVEL 1 ~ LEVEL 9Default: OFFSET MODE ITEM 87: SQL SPLITFunction: Enables/Disables split CTCSS/DCS coding.Available Values: OFF / ONDefault: OFFWhen this Set Mode Item is set to “ON”, you can see the following additional parametersafter the “MESSAGE” parameter while selecting the Set Mode Item 88: SQL TYPE:D CD: DCS Encode only (“DC” icon will appear while operating)TONE-DCS: Encodes a CTCSS Tone and Decodes a DCS code(the “T-D” icon will appear during operation)D CD-TONE SQL: Encodes a DCS code and Decodes a CTCSS Tone(the “D-T” icon will appear during operation)Select the desired operating mode from the selections shown above.SET MODE ITEM 88: SQL TYPEFunction: Selects the Tone Encoder and/or Decoder mode.Available Values: OFF / TONE / TONE SQL / DCS / REV TONE / PR FREQ / PAGER/ MESSAGEDefault: OFFTONE: Activates the CTCSS EncoderTONE SQL: Activates the CTCSS Encoder/DecoderDCS: Activates the Digital Coded Squelch Encoder/DecoderREV TONE: Activates the Reverse CTCSS Encoder/Decoder (Mutes the receiver whenthe matching tone is received).PR FREQ: Activates the User Programmed Reverse CTCSS Encoder/Decoder (Mutesthe receiver when the matching tone with Set Mode Item 65: PR FRE-QUENCY is received).PAGER: Activates the Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch.MESSAGE: Activates the Message feature.Note: See also Set Mode Item 87: SQL SPLIT regarding additional selections availableduring “Split Tone” operation.SET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 145SET MODE ITEM 89: STEP FREQUENCYFunction: Setting of the DIAL frequency steps.Available Values: AUTO / 5.0 / 6.25 / 8.33 / 10.0 / 12.5 / 15.0 / 20.0 / 25.0 / 50.0 / 100.0kHzDefault: AUTO (Step automatically changes according to operating frequency.)Note: 1) This Set Mode Item can select and set the Dial frequency steps to individualmemory channels when Memory Offset Tuning is enabled as shown on page xx.2) 8.33 kHz steps are available only when receiving on the Air band.3) 5.0 kHz steps are not available for use on 250 - 300 MHz, nor above 580 MHz.SET MODE ITEM 90: TIME SETFunction: Sets the Clock time.See page xx for details.SET MODE ITEM 91: TONE FREQUENCYFunction: Setting of the CTCSS Tone Fre-quencyAvailable Values: 50 standard CTCSS tonesDefault: 100.0 HzSET MODE ITEM 92: TONE-SRCH MUTEFunction: Enables/Disables the receiver au-dio output while the Tone Search Scanner isactivated.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: ONSET MODE ITEM 93: TONE-SRCH SPEEDFunction: Selects the Tone Search Scanner speed.Available Values: FAST (2.5 tone/sec) / SLOW (1.25 tone/sec)Default: FAST (2.5 tone/sec)SET MODE ITEM 94: TOTFunction: Setting of the TOT timeAvailable Values: OFF / 0.5min - 10.0min (0.5min/step)Default: 3.0min (3 minutes)The time-out timer shuts off the transmitter after a continuous transmission which is equalto the programmed time.SET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSCTCSS TONE FREQUENCY (Hz)  67.0   69.3   71.9   74.4   77.0   79.7  82.5   85.4   88.5   91.5   94.8   97.4100.0 103.5 107.2 110.9 114.8 118.8123.0 127.3 131.8 136.5 141.3 146.2151.4 156.7 159.8 162.2 165.5 167.9171.3 173.8 177.3 179.9 183.5 186.2189.9 192.8 196.6 199.5 203.5 206.5210.7 218.1 225.7 229.1 233.6 241.8250.3 254.1 – – – –FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL146SET MODE ITEM 95: VFO MODEFunction: Selects or disables the VFO band edge limiting for the current band.Available Values: ALL / BANDDefault: BANDALL: When the VFO frequency reaches the high edge of the current band, the VFOfrequency will jump to the low band edge of the next band (or vice versa).BAND: When the VFO frequency reaches the high band edge of the current band, theVFO frequency will jump to the low band edge of the current band (or vice versa).SET MODE ITEM 96: VFO SKIPFunction: Set the My Band.Available Values: ON / OFFDefault: OFFThe “My Band” feature allows you to select several operating bands, and make only thosebands available for selection via the B key.ON: Only the bands that are turned on will be shown when pushing the B key.OFF: When the B key is pressed, the bands that are turned “OFF” will not be shown.See page 100 for details.SET MODE ITEM 97: VIBRATORFunction: Enables/Disables the Vibrator function.Available Values: OFF / BUSY / SIGNALIMGDefault: OFFOFF: The Vibrator function is disabled.BUSY: The transceiver vibrates when receive a signal.SIGNALIMG: The transceiver vibrates when receive a signal which include the CTCSS,DCS, or EPCS which matches that set into your decoder.SET MODE ITEM 98: VIBRATOR MODEFunction: Selects the vibration mode of the Vibrator function.Available Values: MODE1 / MODE2 / MODE3Default: MODE1MODE1: The transceiver vibrates continuously.MODE2: The transceiver vibrates at a long interval.MODE3: The transceiver vibrates at a short interval.SET MODESET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 147SET MODE ITEM 99: VOLUME MODEFunction: Select the g key function.Available Values: NORMAL / AUTO BACKDefault: NORMALNORMAL: The g key keeps the status while pressing the g key.AUTO BACK: The g key keeps the status for approximately three seconds after press-ing the g key.SET MODE ITEM 100: WX ALERTFunction: Enables/disables the Weather Alert FeatureAvailable Values: ON/OFFDefault: OFFSET MODE SELECTION DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL148APRS/GPS SET MODEFUNCTION AVAILABLE VALUES(DEFALT: BOLD ITALIC)1: APRS  DESTINATION2: APRS FILTER3: APRS  MODEM4: APRS  MSG  FLASH5: APRS  MSG  TXT6: APRS  MSG  VIBRAT7: APRS  MUTE8: APRS  RINGER  MSG9: APRS  RINGER  BCON10: APRS  UNIT11: APRS  TX  DELAY12: BEACON   INTERVAL13: BEACON  STATS  TXT14: BEACON  TX15: COM  PORT  SETTING16: DIGI  PATH17: GPS  DATUM18: GPS  POWER19: GPS  TIME  SET20: GPS UNIT21: MSG  GROUP22: MY  CALLSIGN23: MY  POSITION24: MY  SYMBOL25: POSITION  COMMENT26: SmartBeaconing27: TIME ZONEIndicates the model code of this transceiver.Selects the filter type option allowing you to receive the only specified types of APRS Beacondata.Enables/Disables the APRS modem (AX25 Data modem) and its Baud Rate.Enables/Disables the white LED light when the APRS message is received.Programming the Fixed form APRS Message.Selects the Vibration function when receive the APRS Message.Enables/Disables the audio output of the “B-Band” during APRS operation.Enables/Disables the alert ringer when the APRS message is received.Enables/Disables the alert ringer when the APRS beacon is received.Selects the unit for the APRS Beacon information.Select the transmission delay time between transmitting the APRS data and transmitting apreamble (flag code) prior to the APRS data.Select the Beacon Interval time during APRS operationStore the message for the APRS BeaconEnables/Disables the automatic transmission of the APRS Beacon.Sets the COM port setting.Sets the APRS packet path you wish to path through.Select the GPS Datum.Enables/Disables the built-in GPS Receiver Unit.Enables/Disables the GPS clock data to be used.Selects the units for the GPS information.Selects the filter type option allowing you to receive only specified types of APRS Messageinformation.Program your callsign.Determine and memorize your location (Lat/Log).Selects your icon which will be displayed on the monitors of other stations as you.Selects position comment depending on your situation.Sets the SmartBeaconingTM feature. (SmartBeaconingTM from HamHUD Nichetronix)Set the time offset between the local time and UTC.APY008 (Fixed)Mic-E: ON / OFFPOSITION: ON / OFFWEATHER: ON / OFFOBJECT: ON / OFFITEM: ON / OFFSTATUS: ON / OFFOTHER: ON / OFFOFF / 1200bps / 9600bpsMSG: OFF / 2sec - 10sec (2sec/step) / 20sec /30sec / 60sec / CONTINUOUS /EVERY 2s - EVERY 10s (10sec/step) /EVERY 1m - EVERY 10m (10min/step)(4sec)GRP: OFF / 2sec - 10sec (2sec/step) / 20sec /30sec / 60sec / CONTINUOUS (4sec)BLT: OFF / 2sec - 10sec (2sec/step) / 20sec /30sec / 60sec / CONTINUOUS (4sec)--MSG: ON / OFFGRP: ON / OFFBLT: ON / OFFON / OFFMSG: OFF / ON / USER BP1 / USER BP2  /USER BP3GRP: OFF / ON / USER BP1 / USER BP2  /USER BP3BLT: OFF / ON / USER BP1 / USER BP2  /USER BP3ON / OFFPosition: MM.MM’ / MM’SS”Distance: km / mileSpeed: km/h / knot / mphAltitude: m / ftTemp: °C / °FRain: mm / inchWind: m / s / mph100ms / 150 ms / 200ms / 250ms / 300ms /400ms / 500ms / 750ms / 1000ms30sec / 1min / 2min / 3min / 5min / 10min /15min / 20min / 30min / 60min--MANUAL / AUTO / SMARTP1 OFFP2 (1) 1  WIDE1 -1P3 (2) 1  WIDE1 -1,2  WIDE2 - 1P4 (2) 1   - - - - - - , 2  - - - - - -P5 (2) 1   - - - - - - , 2  - - - - - -P6 (2) 1   - - - - - - , 2  - - - - - -P7 (2) 1   - - - - - - , 2  - - - - - -P8 (8) 1   - - - - - - , 2  - - - - - -WGS-84 / Tokyo Mean / Tokyo Japan /Tokyo Korea / Tokyo OkinawaGPS ON / GPS OFFAUTO / MANUALPosition: .MMM’ / ‘SS”Speed: km/h / knot / mphAltitude: m / ftG1 ~ G5, B1 ~ B3(G1: ALL, G2: CQ, G3: QST, G4: YAESU)--GPS / Lat / Lon / P1 ~ P10more than 180 symbolsOff Duty / En Route / In Service / Returning /Committed / Special / Priority /Custom 0 ~ Custom 6 / EMERGENCY!OFF / TYPE1 / TYPE2 / TYPE3UTC -13:00H ~ UTC +13:00H (0.5H / step)(UTC + 0:00H)SET MODE ITEMFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 149APRS/GPS SET MODE DETAILSAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 1: APRS DESTINATIONFunction: Indicates the model code of this transceiver.Default: APY008This model code can not be changed.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 2: APRS FILTERFunction: Selects the filter type option allowing you to receive only the specified types ofAPRS Beacon data.Available Values: Mic-E, POSITION, WEATHER, OBJECT, ITEM, STATUS, OTHERDefault: Mic-E: ON, POSITION: ON, WEATHER: ON, OBJECT: ON, ITEM: ON,STATUS: ON, OTHER: OFFMic-E: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver shows the stations which senda MIC Encoder Beacon.POSITION: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver shows the stations which senda Position Beacon and Raw NMEA data.WEATHER: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver shows the stations which senda Weather Beacon.OBJECT: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver shows the stations which sendan Object Beacon.ITEM: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver shows the stations which sendan Item Beacon.STATUS: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver shows the stations which senda Status Beacon.OTHER: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver shows the stations which senda packet signal except the APRS beacon.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 3: APRS MODEMFunction: Enables/Disables the APRS modem (AX.25 Data modem) and its Baud Rate.Available Values: OFF / 1200bps / 9600bpsDefault: OFFAPRS/GPS SET MODEFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL150APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 4: APRS MSG FLASHFunction: Selects the interval time of the white LED light function when the APRS mes-sage is received.Available Values: MSG:OFF / 2sec - 10sec (2sec/step) / 20sec / 30sec / 60sec /CONTINUOUS / EVERY 2s - EVERY 10s (10sec/step) /EVERY 1m - EVERY 10m (10min/step)GRP: OFF / 2sec - 10sec (2sec/step) / 20sec / 30sec / 60sec /CONTINUOUSBLT: OFF / 2sec - 10sec (2sec/step) / 20sec / 30sec / 60sec /CONTINUOUSDefault: MSG: 4sec, GRP: 4sec, BLT: 4secMSG: When receive the message to myself, the white LED light flashes according to thesetting of this item.GRP: When receive the group message, the white LED light flashes according to thesetting of this item.BLT: When receive the bulletin message, the white LED light flashes according to thesetting of this item.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 5: APRS MSG TXTFunction: Programming the Fixed form APRS Message.See page ?? for details.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 6: APRS MSG VIBRATFunction: Selects the Vibrator function when receive the APRS Message.Available Values: MSG: ON / OFF, GRP: ON / OFF, BLT: ON /OFFDefault: MSG: OFF, GRP: OFF, BLT: OFFMSG: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver vibrates when receive the message tomyself.GRP: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver vibrates when receive the group mes-sage.BLT: When this item set to “ON”, the transceiver vibrates when receive the bulletinmessage.APRS/GPS SET MODEAPRS/GPS SET MODE DETAILSSETTINGEVERY 2sec - 5secEVERY 6sec - 9secEVERY 10sec - 50secEVERY 1min - 5minEVERY 6min - 10minLED LIGHTFlash one time every setting intervalFlash two times every setting intervalFlash three times every setting intervalFlash four times every setting intervalFlash five times every setting intervalFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 151APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 7: APRS MUTEFunction: Enables/Disables audio output of the “B-Band” during APRS operation.Available Values: ON/OFFDefault: OFFAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 8: APRS RINGER MSGFunction: Selects the alert ringer when the APRS message is received.Available Values: MSG: OFF / ON / USR BP1 / USR BP2 / USR BP3GRP, BLN: OFF / ON / USR BP1 / USR BP2 / USR BP3Default: MSG: OFF, GRP, BLN: OFFMSG: When receive the message to myself, the alert ringer sounds according to thesetting of this item.GRP, BLN: When receive the group or  bulletin message, the alert ringer sounds accord-ing to the setting of this item.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 9: APRS RINGER BCONFunction: Enables/Disables the alert ringer when the APRS beacon is received.Available Values: ON/OFFDefault: ONAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 10: APRS UNITFunction: Selects the unit for the APRS Beacon information.Available Values: Position: MM.MM’/MM’SS”, Distance: km/mile,Speed: km/h/knot/mph, Altitude: m/ft, Temp: °C/°F, Rain: mm/inch, Wind: m/s/mphDefault: Position: MM.MM’, Distance: mile, Speed: mph, Altitude: ft, Temp: °F,Rain: inch, Wind: mphAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 11: APRS TX DELAYFunction: Select the transmission delay time between transmitting the APRS data andtransmitting a preamble (flag code) prior to the APRS data.Available Values: 100ms/150ms/200ms/250ms/300ms/400ms/500ms/750ms/1000msDefault: 300msPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 12: BEACON INTERVALFunction: Select the Beacon Interval time during APRS operationAvailable Values: 30sec/1min/2min/3min/5min/10min/15min/20min/30min/60minDefault: 5minAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 13: BEACON STATS TXTFunction: Store the message for the APRS BeaconSee page xx for details.APRS/GPS SET MODEAPRS/GPS SET MODE DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL152APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 14: BEACON TXFunction: Enables/Disables the automatic transmission of the APRS Beacon.Available Values: MANUAL/AUTO/SMARTDefault: MANUALMANUAL: The VX-8GR does not transmit the APRS beacon automatically. To transmitthe APRS beacon, just press the d key.AUTO: The VX-8GR transmits the APRS beacon automatically at the time intervalwhich is set in Set Mode Item 12: BEACON INTERVAL.SMART: The VX-8GR transmits the APRS beacon automatically when the events thatare set in Set Mode Item 26: SmartBeaconing occures.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 15: COM PORT SETTINGFunction: Sets the COM port setting.Available Values: STATUS: OFF / ONSPEED: 4800 / 9600 / 19200 (bps)INPUT: OFF / GPSOUTPUT: OFF / GPS / WAY.PWAYPOINT: NMEA6 / NMEA7 / NMEA8 / NMEA9Default: STATUS: OFF, SPEED: 9600, INPUT: OFF, OUTPUT: OFF,WAYPOINT: NMEA9SPEED: This item selects the baud rate of the COM port which connects theoptional packet cable.INPUT: This item selects the type of data input to the COM port.OUTPUT: This item selects the type of data output to the COM port.When this item is set to “OFF”, the transceiver does not output anydata from the COM port.When this item is set to “GPS”, the transceiver outputs the GPS data(NMEA data: GGA & RMC) from the COM port.When this item is set to “WAY.P”, the transceiver outputs theWaypoint data from the COM port.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 16: DIGI PATHFunction: Sets the APRS packet path you wish to path through.Available Values: P1 ~ P8Default: P1: OFF, P2: WIDE1-1, P3: WIDE1-1/WIDE2 -1, P4 ~ P8: nonAPRS/GPS SET MODEAPRS/GPS SET MODE DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 153APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 17: GPS DATUMFunction: Select the GPS Datum.Available Values: WGS-84/Tokyo Mean/Tokyo Japan/Tokyo Korea/Tokyo OkinawaDefault: WGS-84APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 18: GPS POWERFunction: Enables/Disables the built-in GPS Antenna Unit.Available Values: GPS OFF/GPS ONDefault: GPS OFFAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 19: GPS TIME SETFunction: Enables/Disables the GPS clock data to be used.Available Values: AUTO/MANUALDefault: AUTOAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 20: GPS UNITFunction: Selects the units for GPS information.Available Values: Position: .MMM’/ ‘SS”, Speed: km/h/knot/mph, Altitude: m/ftDefault: Position: .MMM’, Speed: mph, Altitude: ftNote: The “Position” item selects the coordinate system. When the “Position” item is setto “.MMM’.MMM’.MMM’.MMM’.MMM’”, the VX-8GR displays the location (Lat/Lon) in “ddd° mm. mmmddd° mm. mmmddd° mm. mmmddd° mm. mmmddd° mm. mmm” (Decimalsystem). When the “Position” item is set to “‘SS”‘SS”‘SS”‘SS”‘SS””, the VX-8GR displays the location(Lat/Lon) in “ddd° mm ssddd° mm ssddd° mm ssddd° mm ssddd° mm ss” (Sexagesimal System). The position information used duringAPRS operation is used to display the location (Lat/Lon) in Sexagesimal System, regard-less of this Set Mode setting.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 21: MSG GROUPFunction: Selects the filter type option allowing you to receive only the specified types ofAPRS Message information.Available Values: G1 ~ G5, B1 ~ B3Default: G1: ALL, G2: CQ, G3: QST, G4: YAESU, G5: non, B1 ~ B3: nonAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 22: MY CALLSIGNFunction: Program your callsign.See page xx for details.APRS/GPS SET MODEAPRS/GPS SET MODE DETAILSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL154APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 23: MY POSITIONFunction: Determine and memorize your location (Lat/Lon).Available Values: GPS / Lat / Lon / P1 ~ P10Default: GPSGPS: Your location is determined by the built-in GPS receiver Unit.Lat/Lon: Your location can be entered manually (See page xx for details).P1 ~ P10: Memory Slot for your location (Lat/Lon) as measured with the GPS.To memorize the location:1. Receive the GPS signal.2. Recall the APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 23: MY POSITION23: MY POSITION23: MY POSITION23: MY POSITION23: MY POSITION.3. Press the m key briefly to enable adjustment of this Set Mode Item.4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the memory slot (11111 - 1010101010) you wish to memorize yourlocation into.5. Press and hold the h key for one second to memorize your location (Lat/Lon) intothe slot.Note: Remember to return this Set Mode Item to “Auto” after you have finished enteringyour position data into memory. If not then the transceiver always transmits the positiondata stored in memory and not your true GPS position data.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 24: MY SYMBOLFunction: Select your icon which will be displayed to identify your station on the moni-tors of other stations.Available Values: ICON1, ICON2, ICON3 (46 symbols each), and ICON4 (free selectcharactor)Default: ICON1: , ICON2: , ICON3:, USER:You may replace the default icon of the ICON1, ICON2, and ICON3 to another one byrotating the DIAL knob after having pressed the M key.If you wish to change the ICON4 icon, press the M key twice, then rotate the DIALknob to select the desired Symbol Table ID (left digits in the parenthesis), then press theM key and rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Symbol Code (right digits in theparenthesis).APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 25: POSITION COMMENTFunction: Selects position comment depending on your situation.Available Values: Off Duty, En Route, In Service, Returning, Committed, Special, Prior-ity, Custom 0 ~ Custom 6, EMERGENCY!Default: Off DutyAPRS/GPS SET MODEFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 155APRS/GPS SET MODEAPRS/GPS Set Mode Item 26: SmartBeaconingFunction: Selects the various parameters of the SmartBeaconingTM. The transceiver trans-mits the APRS beacon automatically when each parameter value exceeds the set point.Available Values: OFF, TYPE1, TYPE2, or TYPE3LOW SPEED: 2 ~ 30 mphHIGH SPEED: 3 ~ 70 mphSLOW RATE: 1 min ~ 100 minFAST RATE: 10 sec ~ 180 secTURN ANGLE: 5° ~ 90°TURN SLOPE: 1 ~ 255TURN TIME: 5 sec ~ 180 secDefault: TYPE1 (for Vehicle) TYPE2 (for Bicycle) TYEP3 (for Warking)LOW SPD: 5 mph 3 mph 2 mphHIGH SPD: 70 mph 30 mph 12 mphSLOW RATE: 30 min 30 min 30 minFAST RATE: 120 sec 120 sec 120 secTURN ANGL: 28° 28° 28°TURN SLOP: 26 11 7TURN TIME: 30 sec 30 sec 30secPress the a/b key to select each parameter, then rotate the DIAL knob to set theparameter values.The units of the speed are determined by the transceiver version.SmartBeaconingTM from HamHUD Nichetronix.STATUS: These resisters sum up (combine) the “LOW SPD” through “TURN TIME”items parameters in the “TYPE 1”, “TYPE 2”, or “TYPE 3” settings.When STATUS is set to “TYPE 1”, “TYPE 2”, or “TYPE 3”, theSmartBeaconingTM is activated with parameters of that setting.When STATUS is set to “OFF”, the SmartBeaconingTM function is dis-abled.LOW SPD: This item designates the lower speed threshold. The VX-8GR transmits anAPRS beacon when your movement speed becomes lower than the se-lected speed. The transmission interval time of the APRS beacon is set in“SLOW RATE” item. The speed unit is determined from the APRS/GPSSet Mode Item 10: APRS UNIT.HIGH SPD: This item designates the higher speed threshold. The VX-8GR transmitsan APRS beacon when your movement speed becomes higher than theselected speed. The transmission interval time of the APRS beacon is setin “FAST RATE” item. The speed unit is determined from the APRS/GPSSet Mode Item 10: APRS UNIT.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL156APRS/GPS SET MODESLOW RATE: This item designates the transmission interval time of the APRS beacon atlow movement speeds.FAST RATE: This item designates the maximum transmission interval time of the APRSbeacon at high movement speeds.TURN ANGL: This item designates the course change angle that indicates a progressheading change.TURN SLOP: This item sets a coefficient to modify the TURN ANGLE algorithm, thusincreasing the beacon rate for lower movement speeds.When this setting value is increased, the threshold angles of the APRSbeacon timing are increased as the vehicle velocity is decreased.TURN TIME: This item designates the minimum delay time between each APRS bea-con. The VX-8GR does not transmit an APRS beacon until this settingtime has elapsed since the previous APRS beacon transmission, prevent-ing too frequent beacon transmissions.SmartBeaconingTM from HamHUD Nichetronix.APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 27: TIME ZONEFunction: Set the time offset between the local time and UTC.Available Values: UTC -13:00H ~ UTC +13:00H (0.5H/step)Default: UTC +0:00HFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 157The VX-8GR allows connecting a computer USB port to the ACC Jack, and enablesfollowing functions. Refer to refer to “APRS/GPS Set Mode Item 15: COM PORT SET-TING” for the details.Displays the location data (Lat/Lon) of the after-market GPS receiver on the dis-play.Outputs the location data (Lat/Lon) of the built-in GPS receiver unit.Outputs the Waypoint data of the received APRS beacon.Refer to the illustration below, connect the optional CT-143 PC Connection Cable be-tween the USB jack of your Computer and the DATA Jack on the VX-8GR.APPENDIX (COMPUTER CONNECTIONS)DATA JackCT-143 PC Connection Cable(Option)COM PortD-SUB 9-PIN N.C. TXD (Serial data output: VX-8GR  PC) RXD (Serial data input: VX-8GR  PC) N.C. GND N.C. Connected to pin  Connected to pin  N.C.2.5-mm 3-pin PLUG TXD (Serial data output: VX-8GR  PC) RXD (Serial data input: VX-8GR  PC) GNDCT-143 Cable ConnectionsTo VX-8GR To PCFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL158SPECIFICATIONSGENERALFrequency Ranges: A (Main) Band RX: 108-137 MHz (Air Band)137-174 MHz (144 MHz HAM)174-222 MHz (VHF-TV)222-420 MHz (General 1)420-470 MHz (430 MHz HAM)470-800 MHz (UHF-TV, Cellular Blocked)800-999.90 MHz (General 2, Cellular Blocked)B (Sub) Band RX: 108-137 MHz (Air Band)137-174 MHz (144 MHz HAM)174-222 MHz (VHF-TV)222-420 MHz (General 1)420-470 MHz (430 MHz HAM)470-580 MHz (UHF-TV)TX: 144-146 MHz or 144-148 MHz430-440 MHz or 430-450 MHzChannel Steps: 5/6.25/8.33/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100 kHzEmission Type: F1D, F2A, F2D, F3EFrequency Stability: ±5 ppm (–10 °C to +60 °C [+14 °F to +140 °F])Repeater Shift: ±600 kHz (144 MHz), ±1.6/5.0/7.6 MHz (430 MHz)Antenna Impedance: 50 OhmsSupply Voltage: Nominal: 7.4 V DC (Negative Ground)Operating: 4-14 V DC (Negative Ground, EXT DC jack)Operating with Charging: 11-16 V DC (Negative Ground, EXT DC jack)Current Consumption: 200 mA (Mono Band Receive)(@7.4 VDC, approx.) 240 mA (Dual Band Receive)85 mA (Mono Band Receive, Standby, Saver Off)120 mA (Dual Band Receive, Standby, Saver Off)35 mA (Mono Band Receive, Standby, Saver On “Save Ratio 1:5”)42 mA (Dual Band Receive, Standby, Saver On “Save Ratio 1:5”)300 μA (Auto Power Off)1.7A (144 MHz, 5W TX)1.9 A (430 MHz, 5W TX)Operating Temperature: –20 °C to +60 °C (–4 °F to +140 °F)Case Size (W x H x D): 60 x 95 x 28 mm (2.4” x 3.7” x 1.1”) w/o knob & antennaWeight (Approx.): 250 g (8.8 oz) with FNB-101LI & antennaTRANSMITTERRF Power Output: 1.0 W (@4.5 V: AA x 3)5.0 W (@7.4 V or EXT DC)L3: 2.5 W, L2: 1 W, L1: 0.05 W (@7.4 V)Modulation Type: F2E, F3E: Variable ReactanceMaximum Deviation: ±5 kHz (F2E/F3E)Spurious Emission: At least 60 dB below (@ TX power HI/L3/L2)At least 50 dB below (@ TX power L1)Microphone Impedance: 2K OhmsFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL 159RECEIVERCircuit Type: Double-Conversion SuperheterodyneIF: 1st: 47.25 MHz (A (Main) Band),46.35 MHz (B (Sub) Band),2nd: 450 kHzSensitivity: 1.5 μV (TYP) for 10 dB SN (108-137 MHz @AM)0.2 μV for 12 dB SINAD (137-140 MHz @NFM)0.16 μV for 12 dB SINAD (140-150 MHz @NFM)0.2 μV for 12 dB SINAD (150-174 MHz @NFM)1.0 μV for 12 dB SINAD (174-222 MHz @NFM)0.5 μV for 12 dB SINAD (300-350 MHz @NFM)0.2 μV for 12 dB SINAD (350-400 MHz @NFM)0.18 μV for 12 dB SINAD (400-470 MHz @NFM)1.5 μV for 12 dB SINAD (470-540 MHz @NFM)3.0 μV (TYP) for 12 dB SINAD (540-800 MHz @NFM)1.5 μV (TYP) for 12 dB SINAD (800-999.90 MHz @NFM)(Cellular Blocked)Selectivity: 12 kHz/35 kHz (–6dB/–60dB: NFM, AM)AF Output: 200 mW @ 8 Ohms for 10 % THD (@ 7.4 V DC)400 mW @ 8 Ohms for 10 % THD (@ 13.8 V DC)Specifications are subject to change without notice, and are guaranteed within the 144/430 MHzamateur bands only.Cellular Blocked per FCC rule Part 15.121, may not receive 900 MHz Amateur band.SPECIFICATIONSFCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
VX-8GR OPERATING MANUAL160FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
1. Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by VERTEXSTANDARD could void the user’s authorization to operate this device.2. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject tothe following two conditions; (1) this device may not cause harmfulinterference, and (2) this device must accept any interference includinginterference that may cause undesired operation.3. The scanning receiver in this equipment is incapable of tuning, or readilybeing altered, by the User to operate within the frequency bands allocatedto the Domestic public Cellular Telecommunications Service in Part 22.WARNING: MODIFICATION OF THIS DEVICE TO RECEIVE CELLULARRADIOTELEPHONE SERVICE SIGNALS IS PROHIBITED UNDER FCC RULESAND FEDERAL LAW.DECLARATION BY MANUFACTURERThe Scanner receiver is not a digital scanner and is incapable of being convertedor modified to a digital scanner receiver by any user.FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20
Printed in JapanCopyright 2010VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.All rights reserved.No portion of this manualmay be reproducedwithout the permission ofVERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.EH041M100FCC ID: K6620415X20 / IC:511B-20415X20

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