If you’re in the market for a versatile and reliable HF/VHF/UHF transceiver, look no further than the Yaesu FT-857D. This compact and portable radio has gained a reputation for its exceptional performance and wide range of features, making it a favorite among amateur radio operators.
One of the standout features of the FT-857D is its broad frequency coverage, allowing you to transmit and receive signals across the HF, VHF, and UHF bands. Whether you’re into long-distance DXing or local repeater operations, this radio has got you covered. With its 100-watt output power, you can expect clear and strong signals even in challenging conditions.
Another impressive aspect of the FT-857D is its compact size. Measuring just 6.1″ x 2″ x 9.2″ and weighing only 4.6 pounds, this radio is perfect for portable operations. Whether you’re on a camping trip, a DXpedition, or simply want to operate from different locations, the FT-857D’s compact design makes it easy to carry and set up.
Overview of the Yaesu FT-857D
The Yaesu FT-857D is a versatile and compact HF/VHF/UHF transceiver that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. It is designed for both mobile and base station use, making it a popular choice among amateur radio operators.
The transceiver has a power output of up to 100 watts on HF and 6 meters, and up to 50 watts on 2 meters and 70 centimeters. This provides ample power for long-distance communication and ensures reliable signal transmission.
The FT-857D also features a built-in automatic antenna tuner, which allows for easy and efficient tuning of antennas. This is especially useful when operating in different frequency bands or when using antennas with varying impedance.
Another notable feature of the FT-857D is its compact size. Measuring just 6.1″ x 2″ x 9.2″ and weighing only 4.6 pounds, it is highly portable and can be easily carried and installed in a vehicle or taken on outdoor expeditions. Despite its small size, it does not compromise on performance and functionality.
In terms of user interface, the FT-857D has a clear and intuitive layout with a large multifunctional LCD display. The display provides essential information such as frequency, mode, signal strength, and menu settings, making it easy to operate and monitor the transceiver.
Overall, the Yaesu FT-857D is a reliable and versatile transceiver that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. Its compact size, wide frequency coverage, and power output make it suitable for various applications, whether it be mobile or base station use. With its user-friendly interface and built-in antenna tuner, it is a popular choice among amateur radio operators.
Key Features and Specifications
The Yaesu FT-857D is a versatile and compact HF/VHF/UHF transceiver that offers a wide range of features and specifications. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced ham radio operator, this radio has something to offer.
Another notable feature is its power output. The FT-857D can deliver up to 100 watts of power on HF bands, 50 watts on VHF bands, and 20 watts on UHF bands. This ensures that you have enough power to reach distant stations and overcome obstacles.
The transceiver also has a built-in automatic antenna tuner, which makes it easy to match your antenna to the desired frequency. This saves you time and effort, especially when operating in different bands and modes.
In terms of reception, the FT-857D has excellent sensitivity and selectivity. It can pick up weak signals and reject unwanted interference, ensuring clear and crisp audio. The radio also has a built-in noise reduction feature, which further improves the signal quality.
Operating modes include SSB, CW, AM, FM, and digital modes like RTTY and PSK31. This allows you to explore different modes of communication and experiment with different types of signals. The radio also supports split operation, allowing you to transmit and receive on different frequencies simultaneously.
Other features include a large and easy-to-read LCD display, a detachable front panel for remote mounting, and a variety of programmable memory channels. The radio is also compact and lightweight, making it ideal for portable and mobile operations.
Performance and Reception
The Yaesu FT-857D is known for its exceptional performance and reception capabilities. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced ham radio operator, this transceiver offers outstanding performance that will meet your needs.
The receiver of the FT-857D is highly sensitive and provides excellent reception. It has a built-in DSP (Digital Signal Processing) unit that helps to reduce noise and enhance the clarity of received signals. This feature is especially useful in crowded or noisy environments where weak signals may be easily masked.
In terms of performance, the FT-857D offers a maximum output power of 100 watts on HF and 6 meters, and 50 watts on 2 meters and 70 centimeters. This power output allows for reliable long-distance communication and ensures that your signals can reach other stations even under challenging propagation conditions.
Another notable feature of the FT-857D is its dual VFO (Variable Frequency Oscillator) operation. This allows you to monitor two frequencies simultaneously, making it easier to keep track of multiple conversations or to search for signals on different bands.
Operating Modes
The FT-857D supports a wide range of operating modes, including SSB (Single Sideband), CW (Continuous Wave), AM (Amplitude Modulation), FM (Frequency Modulation), and digital modes such as RTTY (Radio Teletype) and PSK31 (Phase Shift Keying 31). This versatility makes it suitable for various types of communication, from voice to data transmission.
Furthermore, the FT-857D has a built-in automatic antenna tuner, which allows for easy and efficient tuning of your antenna system. This feature is particularly useful when operating on different bands or when using antennas with high SWR (Standing Wave Ratio).
Bands
The FT-857D covers a wide range of bands, including the HF (High Frequency) bands from 160 meters to 10 meters, the VHF (Very High Frequency) band at 6 meters, and the UHF (Ultra High Frequency) band at 2 meters and 70 centimeters. This extensive coverage enables you to communicate on various bands and take advantage of different propagation conditions.
Overall, the Yaesu FT-857D offers exceptional performance and reception capabilities. Its wide frequency coverage, sensitive receiver, and support for various operating modes make it a versatile and reliable transceiver for amateur radio operators. Whether you are a casual operator or a serious DXer, the FT-857D is a great choice that will meet your communication needs.
Operating Modes and Bands
The Yaesu FT-857D is a versatile transceiver that supports multiple operating modes and bands, making it suitable for a wide range of amateur radio activities. It covers the HF, VHF, and UHF bands, allowing users to communicate over long distances and access various repeaters and satellites.
Operating Modes
The FT-857D supports several operating modes, including SSB (Single Sideband), CW (Continuous Wave), AM (Amplitude Modulation), FM (Frequency Modulation), and digital modes such as RTTY (Radio Teletype) and PSK31 (Phase Shift Keying 31). This flexibility enables users to engage in voice communication, Morse code, digital data transmission, and more.
With its built-in DSP (Digital Signal Processing) unit, the FT-857D provides superior filtering and noise reduction capabilities, ensuring clear and intelligible audio in various operating conditions. The DSP also supports features like notch filtering and noise blanking, further enhancing the overall performance of the transceiver.
Bands
Additionally, the transceiver features a dual VFO (Variable Frequency Oscillator) system, which allows users to monitor and operate on two different frequencies simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for activities like split operation, where users transmit on one frequency while listening on another, or for monitoring multiple frequencies during contests or emergency communications.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Compact and portable design makes it ideal for mobile or portable operations
- Wide frequency coverage allows for operation on multiple bands
- Excellent receiver performance with strong sensitivity and selectivity
- Powerful output with up to 100 watts on HF and 6 meters
- Supports various operating modes including SSB, CW, AM, FM, and digital modes
- Easy to use interface with a large, backlit display
- Includes a built-in automatic antenna tuner for convenient tuning
- Features a detachable front panel for flexible installation options
- Offers advanced features like DSP noise reduction and IF shift
- Comes with a wide range of accessories and optional add-ons
- Cons:
- Relatively high price compared to other similar transceivers
- Small size can make it difficult to operate with larger hands
- Some users have reported issues with the durability of the front panel connectors
- Menu system can be complex and overwhelming for beginners
- Not as feature-rich as some higher-end transceivers on the market
Overall, the Yaesu FT-857D offers a compact and versatile solution for amateur radio operators who require portability and a wide range of operating options. While it may have some drawbacks, its performance and features make it a popular choice among many hams. Consider your specific needs and preferences to determine if the FT-857D is the right radio for you.
Buying Guide
| Factor | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Price | Compare prices from different retailers to find the best deal. Keep in mind that the FT-857D is a high-quality transceiver, so it may have a higher price tag compared to other models. |
| Features | Make a list of the features that are most important to you. The FT-857D offers a wide range of features, including multi-mode operation, built-in DSP, and a detachable front panel. Ensure that the model you choose has all the features you need. |
| Size and Portability | If you plan on using the transceiver for portable operations or mobile installations, consider its size and portability. The FT-857D is compact and lightweight, making it a great choice for on-the-go use. |
| Power Output | Check the power output of the transceiver. The FT-857D offers up to 100 watts of power, which is suitable for most amateur radio applications. However, if you require higher power output, you may need to consider other models. |
| Reviews and Reputation | Read reviews from other users and check the reputation of the Yaesu brand. The FT-857D has received positive reviews for its performance and reliability, which is a testament to its quality. |
| Accessories | Consider the availability of accessories for the FT-857D. Yaesu offers a range of optional accessories, such as external speakers, antenna tuners, and carrying cases. Check if these accessories are readily available and if they fit your needs. |
| Warranty | Check the warranty provided by the manufacturer. The FT-857D comes with a limited warranty, which provides peace of mind in case of any manufacturing defects or issues. |
By considering these factors and doing thorough research, you can make an informed decision when purchasing the Yaesu FT-857D. Whether you are a seasoned amateur radio operator or a beginner, this transceiver offers a wide range of features and excellent performance to enhance your radio communication experience.
Over the years, I have amassed a wealth of experience and knowledge, which I eagerly share with fellow radio aficionados. Through my writing and active participation in the amateur radio community, I strive to inspire others and provide valuable insights into this fascinating hobby. Engaging in various radio activities, I continue to learn and grow, constantly amazed by the endless possibilities that radio communication offers.