FCC ID: K66FT-857
Operating Manual
Vertex Standard Co., Ltd.
41
modulator. Remember to press and hold in the [F] key for one second when adjustments are completed, so as to save the
new setting for Menu Mode No-071 [PKT 1200] or No-072 [PKT 9600].
The 9600 bps Packet deviation setting is very critical to successful operation, and it can only be accomplished using a
calibrated deviation meter; the optimum setting is usually ±2.75 kHz (±0.25 kHz). For 1200 bps, the optimum level is
much less critical, with the optimum deviation being between ±2.5 kHz and ±3.5 kHz.
WeatherFax Monitoring
Monitoring of HF WeatherFax broadcasts is easily accomplished using the FT-857.
Before proceeding, be certain that the WeatherFax demodulator is properly connected to Pins 5 and 2 of the rear panel
DATA jack.
1. Set the transceiver to the VFO mode, and set the operating mode to “DIG,” setting Menu Mode No-038 [DIG MODE]
to “PSK31-U,” as described previously.
2. Now, select the operating frequency of the station transmitting the WeatherFax broadcast. Note that, in the USB mode,
the frequency you should program onto the display is typically 1.90 kHz below the station’s “assigned” frequency.
Thus for a WeatherFax station assigned to 8.682.0 MHz, tune to 8.680.1 MHz.
3. When the WeatherFax broadcast begins, no further operator intervention should be needed from the transceiver
standpoint. The audio level from the DATA jack on the rear of the transceiver is fixed, and cannot be adjusted.
4. Fine adjustments in the gray-scale and the frame alignment are accomplished using the computer and software
connected to your WeatherFax demodulator.
Time-Out Timer
Most often used on FM, the transmitter’s Time-Out Timer (TOT) feature disables the transmitter after a user-defined
period of transmission. This feature may be useful in preventing a “stuck microphone” (accidental closure of the PTT
switch) from causing interference to other users, and it will also force you to keep your transmissions short, thereby
conserving battery power.
To activate the Time-Out Timer:
1. Press and hold in the [F] key for one second to enter the Menu mode.
2. Rotate the MEM/VFO CH knob to recall Menu Mode No-084 [TOT TIME].
The default setting for this feature is “OFF.” Rotate the DIAL knob to set a new time-out setting (from 1 minute to 20
minutes).
3. When you have made your selection, press and hold in the [F] key for one second to save the new setting and exit to
normal operation.
