Introduction
The Yaesu FT-8900R is a versatile FM mobile transceiver offering quad-band operation across the 29, 50, 144, and 430 MHz amateur bands. It combines advanced features such as VHF/UHF full duplex, cross-band repeat, independent dual-band operation, and six "Hyper Memory" keys for storing complete transceiver configurations. This transceiver is designed to provide exceptional performance and flexibility for mobile radio enthusiasts.
Specifications
General
- Frequency Range: RX: 28.000-29.700 MHz, 50.000-54.000 MHz, 108.000-180.000 MHz, 320.000-480.000 MHz, 700-985 MHz (Cellular Blocked)
- TX Range: 28.000-29.700 MHz, 50.000-54.000 MHz, 144.000-146.000 MHz (or 144.000-148.000 MHz), 430.000-440.000 MHz (or 430.00-450.000 MHz)
- Frequency Steps: 5/10/12.5/15/20/25/50 kHz
- Operating Modes: F3, F2
- Antenna Impedance: 50 Ohms, unbalanced (Antenna Duplexer built-in)
- Frequency Stability: ±5 ppm @ -10°C to +60°C
- Operating Temperature Range: -20°C to +60°C
- Supply Voltage: 13.8 VDC (±15%), negative ground
- Current Consumption (Approx.): RX: 0.5 A (Squelched), TX: 8.5 A (50/430 MHz), 8.5 A (29/144 MHz)
- Case Size (W x H x D): 140 x 41.5 x 168 mm (w/o knobs & connectors)
- Weight (Approx.): 1 kg
Transmitter
- Power Output: 50/20/10/5 W (29/50/144 MHz), 35/20/10/5 W (430 MHz)
- Modulation Type: Variable Reactance
- Maximum Deviation: ±5 kHz
- Spurious Radiation: Better than -60 dB (29 MHz: Better than -50 dB)
- Modulation Distortion: Less than 3%
- Microphone Impedance: 2 kΩ
- DATA Jack Impedance: 10 kΩ
Receiver
- Circuit Type: Double-conversion superheterodyne
- Intermediate Frequencies: 45.05 MHz / 450 kHz (Left band), 47.25 MHz / 450 kHz (Right band)
- Sensitivity (for 12dB SINAD): Better than 0.2 μV
- Squelch Sensitivity: Better than 0.16 μV
- Selectivity (-6dB/-60dB): 12 kHz / 30 kHz
- Maximum AF Output: 2 W @ 8 Ω for 5% THD
- AF Output Impedance: 4-16 Ω
Specifications are subject to change without notice and are guaranteed within the 29, 50, 144, and 430 MHz amateur bands only. Frequency ranges may vary by transceiver version.
High Performance Features
Quad Band Operation
The FT-8900R enables operation on the 29 MHz and 50 MHz bands, in addition to the traditional 144/430 MHz bands, facilitating nationwide or worldwide FM communications. This capability allows for Sporadic-E or F2 DX contacts.
Supported Band Combinations:
- 29 MHz + 144 MHz
- 29 MHz + 430 MHz
- 50 MHz + 144 MHz
- 50 MHz + 430 MHz
- 144 MHz + 144 MHz
- 144 MHz + 430 MHz
- 430 MHz + 144 MHz
- 430 MHz + 430 MHz
Wide Frequency Coverage
The receiver covers frequencies beyond amateur bands, including public safety, commercial, aircraft, and government communications ranges. Specific coverage includes 28-29.7 MHz, 50-54 MHz, 108-180 MHz, 320-480 MHz, and 700-985 MHz (cellular frequencies are blocked).
Independent Two-Channel, Dual Receive and Full Duplex Operation
The FT-8900R functions as two radios in one, allowing independent operation on two bands simultaneously. Users can configure the left and right sides with different frequency bands and enjoy full duplex communication. Each side has dedicated Volume, Squelch controls, and S-meters.
High Power Output
The transceiver delivers 50 Watts of power on the 29/50/144 MHz bands and 35 Watts on the 430 MHz band. A thermal sensor and cooling fan ensure stable operation during extended transmissions.
Power Output Levels:
- HIGH: 50W / 35W (430MHz)
- MID1: 20W
- MID2: 10W
- LOW: 5W
Versatility Features
Convenient Access to WIRES™ and Other Internet-Linking Systems
The FT-8900R provides easy access to WIRES™ (Wide-coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System) repeaters and other internet linking systems. It can automatically send DTMF access codes for repeater connection and store/send custom DTMF strings for linking systems.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows two computer systems, each with a transceiver (TRX) and modem connected to a PC. These systems are linked via an Internet Line (Digital). DTMF signals are shown being sent from a microphone to the transceivers, enabling communication through the internet. The FT-8900R is depicted as part of this setup.
Over 800 Memory Channels
The FT-8900R offers extensive memory capacity, including 799 "regular" memories, six "Home" channels, five sets of band-edge memories, and six "Hyper Memory" channels. These memories can be labeled with six-character alphanumeric "Tags" for easy identification.
Large, Easy-to-Read Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
The Omni-Glow™ illuminated LCD provides clear frequency and status indication with wide viewing angles and four adjustable illumination levels for various lighting conditions.
One-Touch Band-Pattern "Hyper Memory" Feature
The "Hyper Memory" feature allows users to store complete transceiver configuration settings, including frequency, tone data, Automatic Repeater Shift status, Packet parameters, Scanning mode, and VFO tracking, for quick recall and efficient operation.
Hyper Memory Configurations:
| Hyper Memory No. | Left Band | Right Band |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 m | 70 cm |
| 2 | 6 m | 70 cm |
| 3 | 10 m | 70 cm |
| 4 | 2 m | 2 m |
| 5 | 6 m | 2 m |
| 6 | 10 m | 2 m |
Built-in Duplexer
A high-performance duplexing system with extensive filtering is integrated, allowing for cross-band full duplex operation using a single antenna jack.
Cross-Band Repeat Capability
The FT-8900R supports cross-band repeat functionality, useful for extending the range of handheld units or for emergency communications.
Versatile Scanning Capability
Users can scan memories, entire operating bands, or specific band portions. The transceiver stops on active signals, and band scanning can be configured to stay within the current band or hop to adjacent bands. Priority Channel operation and Programmable Memory Scan with sub-band limits are also available.
50-Tone CTCSS / 104-Tone DCS
The transceiver includes 50-tone subaudible CTCSS and 104-tone DCS signaling systems for reliable access to repeaters and remote bases. Built-in decoders allow silent listening, and Tone Search Scanning helps match incoming signal tones.
ARTS™ (Auto-Range Transponder System)
Yaesu's exclusive ARTS™ feature provides a "hand-shake" with other ARTS™-equipped transceivers, indicating if an "Out of Range" condition exists. This is beneficial for search-and-rescue operations. A 6-character CW ID memory is included for station identification.
Diagram Description: Two cars are shown. One is "In Contact" (Inside Communications Range), with the display showing "INRNG". The other is "Out of Contact" (Outside Communications Range), with the display showing "OUTRNG". Arrows indicate communication signals between the cars.
User-Programmable Microphone Keys
Four programmable keys on the microphone offer one-touch access to frequently used functions such as Band Change, VFO/Memory switching, Home Channel access, 1 MHz frequency steps, Power Output selection, Repeater Reverse, and CTCSS/DCS setup. Default settings are provided for convenience.
Diagram Description: A diagram illustrates the front panel of the FT-8900R transceiver, highlighting various knobs and buttons including the DIAL knob (Left/Right Band), Volume knob, Squelch knob, UP/DOWN keys, PTT switch, and command keys. Programmable microphone keys (P1-P4) are also indicated with their default functions.
Convenient Remote-Head Mounting Capability
The optional YSK-8900 Separation Kit allows for flexible mounting of the FT-8900R's front panel, even in compact vehicles. The kit includes a 20 ft (6 m) remote cable and a mounting bracket.
Diagram Description: A diagram shows the interior of a car with the FT-8900R transceiver's remote head mounted on the dashboard. The main transceiver body is shown installed elsewhere (e.g., under a seat), connected via a cable. An external speaker (MLS-100) and microphone (MIC) are also shown connected.
Smart Search™ Automatic Memory Loading System
The Smart Search™ feature automatically loads up to 25 memory channels per band where activity is detected. This is useful for identifying local repeater frequencies when traveling to new areas.
Easy Setup for FM Satellite Operation
The FT-8900R's memory system facilitates easy setup for FM satellite operation, allowing storage of uplink and downlink frequencies to compensate for Doppler shift during satellite passes.
Additional Features
- 1200/9600 BPS Packet Capability (requires optional CT-39A Packet Cable)
- Automatic Repeater Shift
- RF Squelch (opens squelch at a user-defined S-Meter level)
- Automatic Power-Off (APO)
- Time-Out Timer (TOT)
- Battery Voltage Meter
- DTMF Auto-Dial Memory (16 memories, up to 16 tones each)
- Lock Feature for Front Panel Keys & PTT Switch
