General Description
The FT-270R is a compact synthesized FM transceiver designed for the 2-meter amateur band. It features a die-cast aluminum "duct-flow" heatsink chassis, enabling the FT-270R to provide 25 watts RF output, while the FT-270RH offers 45 watts with an integrated miniature cooling fan. The chassis also ensures optimal circuit shielding for clean performance. Users can select low power output (3 watts or 5 watts for the "H" version) from the front panel.
The transceiver incorporates two 4-bit CPUs for straightforward control of 10 memory channels (8 with independent transmit and receive frequencies) and dual VFOs with lithium cell backup. Convenient tuning and scanning features include Yaesu's "PMS" (programmable memory scan) system, allowing scanning or skip-scanning between two memory channels, a MHz stepping button, and priority channel checking. Two scan resume modes are available: timed scan halt or auto-resume on carrier drop.
Independent programmable transmit and receive frequencies, along with automatically programmable standard shifts and one-touch reverse, provide total freedom for repeater operation. A built-in burst tone generator is included. With the optional FTS-8 Tone Squelch Unit, 37 standard CTCSS (subaudible) tone frequencies can be displayed, selected, and programmed into memory channels for silent monitoring or encode-only operation.
The green-lit LCD display offers clear operating status, including memory and call channel selection, and CTCSS mode and tone frequency (if FTS-8 is installed). A ten-step two-color LED bar PO/S-meter indicates relative power output or received signal strength.
A deluxe scanning microphone is supplied with the FT-270R (US version includes DTMF pad). A "speak" button on the microphone activates Yaesu's optional Voice Synthesizer Unit, which announces the operating frequency, selected VFO, and CTCSS frequency (if FTS-8 is installed), allowing users to keep their eyes on the road.
Specifications
| Category | Item | Detail |
|---|
| GENERAL | Frequency range | Per local requirements (see Model Chart) |
| Channel steps | (See Model Chart) |
| Mode | F3 (F3E) |
| Antenna impedance | 50 ohms, unbalanced |
| Supply voltage | 13.8 VDC ±15% |
| Supply current | FT-270R: 6A @25W TX, 2.5A @3W TX; FT-270RH: 9A @45W TX, 3.5A @5W TX; Both types: 0.6A RX (stby) |
| Oper. temp range | -10 to +60 degrees Centigrade |
| Case Size / Weight | 140(W) x 40(H) x 162(D) mm / Approx. 1.2 kg |
| RECEIVER | Circuit type | Double conversion superheterodyne |
| First IF | 21.6 MHz |
| Second IF | 455 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 0.2uV for 12dB SINAD; 1uV for 30dB S+N/N |
| Selectivity | 14 kHz (-6dB), 28kHz (-60dB) |
| Image rejection | 60dB or better |
| Audio Output / Ext Spkr imped. | 2W into 8 ohms for 10% THD, or better / 4 to 16 ohms |
| TRANSMITTER | RF output | FT-270R: 25W/3W selectable; FT-270RH: 45W/5W |
| Modulation | Variable reactance |
| Deviation | ±5 kHz |
| Maximum bandwidth | 16 kHz |
| Spurious emissions | -60 dB or better |
| Stability / Microphone imped. | ±10ppm (-5-+50 C) / 600 ohms |
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
FT-270R/RH Model Chart
| Type | Freq. Coverage (MHz) | Channel Steps (kHz) | Rptr Shift (MHz) | Tone Burst (Hz) |
|---|
| A | 144-148 | 5/10 | ±0.6 | 1800 |
| B | 144-146 | 12.5/25 | ±0.6 | 1750 |
| C | 144-148 | 12.5/25 | ±0.6 | 1750 |
| D | 144-146 | 5/10 | ±0.6 | 1750 |
| E | 144-148 | 5/10 | ±0.6 | 1750 |
Supplied Accessories and Options
Supplied Accessories
- MMB-26: Mobile Mounting Bracket
- MH-14A8: Scanning Hand Microphone (MH-15A8 with DTMF for USA)
- STAND-1: Wire Stand for desktop operation
- Fused DC Power Cord
- Spare fuse (10A)
Options
- FTS-8: Tone Squelch Unit
- FVS-1: Voice Synthesizer Unit (English)
- SP-55: External Speaker
- MH-14B8: Scanning Hand Speaker/Microphone
- MH-15A8: Scanning Hand Microphone with DTMF keypad
- MF-1A3B: Boom Microphone with flexible arm
- YH-1: Headset (with microphone)
- SB-10: PTT Switch Unit for use with MF-1A3B and YH-1
Note: Certain options may be included as standard accessories according to local needs or popularity.
Visual Description of Accessories: The document displays various accessories. The FTS-8 is a small circuit board. The FVS-1 is a larger circuit board housed in a metal casing. The SP-55 is a compact external speaker. The YH-1 is a headset with an attached microphone. The MH-14A8, MH-14B8, and MH-15A8 are different models of hand microphones, some with keypads. The SB-10 is a small, rectangular PTT switch unit with a cable.
Controls, Switches and Connectors
Front Panel Layout Description: The front panel of the FT-270R/RH features a large central LCD display. To the left of the display is a large Main Dial. Below the display are several buttons arranged in rows. To the right of the display are LED indicator lamps and an 8-pin microphone jack. Controls are numbered for reference:
- T CALL: Button for transmitting 1750 or 1800 Hz Burst Tone to access repeaters.
- VFO: Button to select VFO operation (VFO A or B) or switch between VFOs when already in VFO mode.
- MR (Memory Recall): Button to select memory mode or erase memory data.
- PMS (Programmable Memory Scan): Momentary switch to activate PMS function.
- M (Memorize): Button for writing VFO frequency to memory, and for masking/unmasking channels from memory scanning. Has up to three sequential levels of operation.
- LED Indicator Lamps:
- ON AIR (Red): Lit when the transmitter is active.
- BUSY (Green): Lit when the main receiver squelch is open. If FTS-8 Tone Squelch Unit is used in encode/decode mode, indicates frequency is occupied even if receiver audio is quieted.
- LCD (Display) and LED Bar Meter: The LCD shows operating frequency and functions. Below the LCD is a PO/S LED bar meter for relative power output during transmission and received signal strength.
LCD Display Diagram Description: The LCD diagram shows various indicators:
- PRIORITY Checking active: Indicated by "PRI" at the lower center.
- REVERSE TX/RX: Indicated by "REV" at the lower left.
- TONE Frequency: Displayed in the main frequency area when setting tones.
- Operating Frequency: Main large digital display.
- TONE SQUELCH active: Indicated by "ENC" (Encode only) or "ENC DEC" (Encode/Decode) to the right of the frequency display.
- MEMORY CHANNEL Numbers: Numbers 1-9 and 0 displayed below the main frequency.
- MEMORY mode: Indicated by "M" to the left of the memory channel numbers.
- VFO mode: Indicated by "A" or "B" to the left of the memory channel numbers.
- PROGRAMMABLE MEMORY SCAN active: Indicated by "PMS" to the left of the VFO/Memory mode indicators.
- Main Dial: Detented knob for selecting VFO operating frequency. In memory mode, transfers operating frequency to last selected VFO. Also selects CTCSS tone frequency when FTS-8 is installed.
- - S + (Shift): 3-position slide switch for simplex (center), plus (+600kHz), or minus (-600kHz) repeater shifts. Disabled when memory has preprogrammed transmit and receive frequencies.
- REV (Reverse TX/RX): Button to exchange transmit and receive frequencies during repeater operation on VFO or single-frequency memory with standard shifts. "REV" appears on display when reversed.
- LOW Switch (Low Power): 2-position pushbutton switch for selecting low transmitter power output (3W or 5W in "H" version) when depressed, and high power otherwise (25W or 45W in "H" version).
- STEP: Momentary pushbutton to select synthesizer step size for tuning and scanning, toggling between half and full channel steps.
- TONE: Momentary pushbutton to select operating state of optional FTS-8 Tone Squelch Unit: CTCSS Encode only (ENC), Encode/Decode (ENC DEC), or CTCSS off.
- T SET (Tone set): Button to set CTCSS tone when FTS-8 option is installed, displaying the selected tone frequency without activating the CTCSS system.
- PRI (Priority Function): Checks current (or last selected) memory channel for activity every six seconds while operating on VFO. If a signal is found, operation shifts to the memory channel. Requires proper main squelch level.
- MHz/MCH: Double button for upward (right side) and downward (left side) change of selected VFO frequency in 1 MHz steps (VFO mode), or memory channel number (memory mode), or CTCSS tone frequency (T SET mode). Stepping repeats automatically when held down.
- VOL SQL: Inner VOL control is power on/off switch and audio gain control. Fully counterclockwise (click-stop) is OFF. Outer SQL control sets squelch threshold. Green BUSY LED illuminates when squelch is open. With FTS-8 decoder, sets threshold for BUSY LED and scanner stop.
- MIC (Microphone) Jack: 8-pin jack for microphone input, scanning control, and voice synthesizer keying (with FVS-1 installed).
MH-14A8 Circuit Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the internal wiring of the MH-14A8 microphone. It shows connections for MIC (microphone input), PTT (Push-To-Talk), and SPEAK (speaker output). The diagram includes resistors, capacitors, and a switch for LOCK, UP, and DOWN functions, connecting to an 8-pin connector. The pins are labeled with colors: WHT (White), SHIELD, BLK (Black), RED, GRN (Green), BLU (Blue), BRN (Brown).
Bottom Cover Slide Switches
Bottom Cover Switches Description: The bottom cover of the transceiver features three slide switches:
- BACKUP: On/off switch for the memory backup lithium battery. Set to OFF at the factory, should be ON unless storing the transceiver without use for a long period.
- BURST: Enables/disables automatic tone burst function (1/2-second, 1750 or 1800Hz) transmitted when PTT is closed. Set to OFF unless required by local repeaters.
- SCAN: Determines scanner resume function. "A" selects automatic resume after six seconds; "B" selects automatic resume after carrier drop.
- VOICE: Selects how the optional FVS-1 Voice Synthesizer "speaks". OFF: speaks only when SPEAK button on microphone is pressed. ON: speaks whenever operating modes or parameters are changed.
Rear Panel Connectors
Rear Panel Connectors Description: The rear panel of the transceiver features three connectors:
- 13.8 VDC: Power cable connection. The RED lead is positive, and the supply voltage must not exceed 15V DC. Mobile installations require a negative ground electrical system. AC voltage must not be connected.
- EXT SP (External Speaker Jack): 1/8-inch 2-conductor mini phone jack for connecting an external 4 to 16-ohm speaker. Disables the internal speaker when used.
- ANT: In-line jack for connecting a 2m antenna cable using a type "M" (UHF) coaxial plug.
Visual Description of Rear Panel: The rear panel shows the three connectors clearly labeled: ANT (Antenna), EXT SP (External Speaker), and 13.8VDC (Power Input). The 13.8VDC connector is a two-pin connector for the power cable, the EXT SP is a small audio jack, and the ANT is a larger coaxial connector.
Installation
Antenna Considerations
The FT-270R is designed for use with an antenna having an impedance near 50 ohms at the operating frequency. For optimal performance, a high-quality, carefully designed antenna is recommended. The antenna should always be connected when power is on to prevent damage from accidental transmission without an antenna. For optimal performance, use the shortest possible length of the best quality coaxial cable available for the feedline, and ensure a properly matching fitting for the cable connector on the transceiver.
Mobile Installation
The FT-270R must only be installed in cars with a negative ground electrical system. The transceiver should be located where the display, controls, and microphone are easily accessible, and securely affixed using the supplied MMB-26 mobile mounting bracket. It can be installed in any position without affecting performance, but avoid mounting near heater vents or where it could interfere with safe vehicle operation. For FT-270RH high power operation, ensure ample space at the left side and rear for the forced-air cooling system to operate freely.
MMB-26 Mobile Mounting Bracket Installation Diagrams Description:
- Figure 1 (Mounting Surface): Shows the MMB-26 bracket, a U-shaped metal bracket with mounting holes, and screws/washers for securing it to a surface. Dimensions like 30mm and 60mm are indicated for hole spacing.
- Figure 2 (Mounting Ring, Spacer, Flat Washer): Illustrates how the mounting rings attach to the transceiver. It shows a flat washer, a mounting ring (a circular piece with a screw hole and a notch), and a spacer (a small cylindrical piece) used with screws.
- Figure 3 (Remove/Install): Depicts the process of attaching the transceiver to the bracket. It shows the transceiver sliding backward and upward into the bracket's notches until it snaps into place. The "Remove" arrow indicates pulling straight forward with slight upward pressure at the rear.
Installation Steps:
- Use the mounting bracket as a template for positioning mounting holes. Drill holes with a 3/16" bit and secure the bracket with supplied screws, washers, and nuts.
- Screw the mounting rings to the transceiver using supplied spacers and flat washers, ensuring correct orientation.
- Align the mounting rings with the notches in the bracket, and slide the transceiver backward and upward into the bracket until it snaps into place.
To remove the transceiver from the bracket, pull it straight forward with slight upward pressure at the rear, if necessary.
Base Station Installation
A base station mounting stand is supplied with the transceiver for easy display viewing and internal speaker clearance. A power supply capable of providing at least 9A continuously at 13.8VDC is required for AC line operation. The FP-700 AC power supply is available from Yaesu dealers. Use the supplied fused DC power cable for power connections.
WARNING: NEVER APPLY AC POWER TO THE REAR PANEL POWER JACK OF THE TRANSCEIVER. NEVER CONNECT DC VOLTAGE OF MORE THAN 15 VOLTS TO THE POWER JACK. ALWAYS REPLACE FUSES WITH THE PROPER RATING (5A for FT-270R, or 10A for FT-270RH). FAILURE TO OBSERVE THESE PRECAUTIONS WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
Connect the power cable to the short pigtails on the back of the transceiver: red-to-red and black-to-black.
The SP-55 External Speaker is an optional accessory for the FT-270R, allowing audio source repositioning for optimum hearing, especially in noisy mobile environments. It includes its own swivel-type mounting bracket and is available from Yaesu dealers. Other accessories for safety and mobile operating convenience include the YH-1 Headset with miniature boom microphone, and the full size MF-1A3B boom microphone with flexible arm (both use the SB-10 PTT switch).
Before connecting the power cable, check that the maximum battery charging voltage remains below 15V when the engine runs fast. If it exceeds 15V, adjust the car's voltage regulator before connecting the transceiver.
Power connections should be made directly to the automobile battery using the supplied cable with 5A (FT-270R) or 10A (-RH) inline fuses. Connecting to the cigarette lighter or other accessory circuits may blow the fuse. Direct connection to the battery minimizes ignition noise pickup and excessive supply voltage drop during transmission.
Do not connect any power to the transceiver except via the supplied fused cable, and do not attempt to defeat or bypass the fuses, as they protect the user and equipment.
Connect the RED lead of the power cable to the POSITIVE (+) battery terminal, and the BLACK lead to the NEGATIVE (-) terminal. If extending the power cable is necessary, use #16 AWG or larger insulated, stranded copper wire, and use the minimum practicable length to keep voltage drop minimal.
MH-15A8 Circuit Diagram Description: This diagram shows the internal circuitry of the MH-15A8 microphone, including connections for the keypad (12 keys arranged in 4x3 grid), SPEAK, PTT, LOCK, UP, and DOWN functions. It illustrates resistors, capacitors, and transistors (Q2, Q3, Q4) within the microphone's circuit, leading to an 8-pin connector with colored wires (BRN, RED, SHIELD, WHT, GRN, BLU, BLK).
FTS-8 Tone Squelch Unit Installation
The FTS-8 provides encode-only or encode/decode operation with 37 front panel selectable subaudible CTCSS tones, available for all FT-270R versions from Yaesu dealers. Refer to the "Operation" section for functional details.
Installation Steps:
- Disconnect the power cable, remove the rear panel screw, and lift the top cover by sliding it back slightly before lifting it away.
- Locate the two white connectors on the Main Board behind the tuning knob. Remove the 1/4W, 47K resistor and jumper wire from the rear-most connector.
- Position the FTS-8 so its connecting pins align with their mating connectors as shown in the photo, and gently press it into place.
- If the FVS-1 Speech Synthesizer Unit is also being installed, proceed to step 2 on page 16. Otherwise, replace the top cover in reverse. The output tone level (VR1 on the FTS-8) is factory-adjusted, so no adjustment is necessary.
Visual Description of FTS-8 Installation: The document shows images of the transceiver's rear panel with the top cover removed, revealing the internal main board. It highlights the location where a jumper wire and a 47KΩ resistor need to be removed. Another image shows the FTS-8 Tone Squelch Unit, a circuit board with multiple pins, being aligned with the connectors on the main board for installation.
FTS-8 Tone Squelch Unit Circuit Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the internal components and connections of the FTS-8 unit (F2638100). It includes integrated circuits (MN6520, 4066), transistors (2SC2712), resistors, capacitors, and crystal oscillators. Key connections are labeled, such as TONE OUT, TX/RX, LIM IN, RX IN, RX OUT, VREF, and various power and ground pins. It also shows an adjustment potentiometer (VR1) for tone level.
FVS-1 Voice Synthesizer Unit Installation
The FVS-1 provides automatic and/or manually actuated synthesized voice readout of VFO or memory frequency, or tone squelch frequency if the FTS-8 is installed. Refer to the "Operation" section for details.
Installation Steps:
- Disconnect the power cable, remove the rear panel screw, and lift the top cover by sliding it back slightly before lifting it away.
- Remove the screw on the rear panel affixing the bottom cover. Lift the cover away slowly, being careful not to pull on the speaker wires.
- Remove the four screws affixing the front panel at the top and bottom. Pull the front panel away slightly to access the CPU circuit board.
- Locate the unconnected miniature 10-pin connector between the front panel subchassis and the main chassis. Carefully mate this connector to its counterpart on the FVS-1. Use the supplied double-sided adhesive tape to affix the flat surface of the IC on the FVS-1 to the flat surface of the CPU in the transceiver, as shown in the photo.
- Replace front panel screws and the top cover in reverse. Then replace the bottom cover and its screw, ensuring speaker leads are secure and no wires are pinched. The output level (VR1 on the FVS-1) is factory-aligned, so no further adjustment is necessary.
Visual Description of FVS-1 Installation: The document shows a diagram illustrating the FVS-1 unit being installed inside the transceiver. It depicts the FVS-1 circuit board being attached to the main chassis using double-sided adhesive tape. Arrows indicate pulling the front panel and bottom side for access.
FVS-1 Voice Synthesizer Unit Circuit Diagram Description: The diagram illustrates the internal components and connections of the FVS-1 unit (F2628100). It includes integrated circuits (LA6358M, HD6188784S), transistors (2SA1162), resistors, capacitors, and a crystal oscillator. Key connections are labeled, such as GND, 5V, VS OUT, START, PS1-5, and BUSY. It also shows an adjustment potentiometer (VR1) for output level and a switch (S1) for EN (Enable).
Operation
This section provides a comprehensive understanding of the transceiver's controls and switches for optimum performance.
Before proceeding, ensure a proper antenna for the 2m band is connected and a 13.8V DC (negative ground) power supply is connected to the RED positive power cable.
Initializing and Basic Checkout
Preset controls and switches as follows:
- VOL: Fully counterclockwise (off)
- SQL: Fully counterclockwise
- LOW: Depressed position
- - S +: Center "S" position
- BACKUP: (Bottom cover) OFF
- Rotate the VOL control clockwise out of the click-stop. Panel lamps should illuminate, and BUSY and ON AIR lamps will blink before frequency data appears. Advance VOL for comfortable noise/signal level.
- Set the BACKUP switch on the bottom cover to ON. Switching on power with BACKUP off resets the CPU; switching on backup ON retains operating data in memory.
- Rotate the dial to an unoccupied channel. Rotate SQL clockwise until noise disappears and BUSY lamp turns off. This is maximum squelch sensitivity. BUSY lamp lights when main squelch is open.
- Press either side of the MHz/MCH button to change frequency in 1 MHz steps. When band end is reached, kHz digits cancel, and VFO frequency jumps to the far end of the band.
- Rotate the dial to observe channel selection. Press STEP and turn the dial again to observe half-step tuning. UP and DWN scanning buttons on the microphone can also single-step frequency by selected step size. Set transceiver to a simplex frequency for transmission.
- Press the PTT (Push-To-Talk) switch on the microphone to transmit. ON AIR lamp lights. Speak into microphone normally. Never transmit without a proper antenna or dummy load to avoid transceiver damage.
- For high power operation, set LOW switch to undepressed position. Use low power whenever possible to minimize current drain, heating, and interference.
General Operating Features
(1) VFO Selection
The FT-270R has two VFOs, labeled "A" and "B", indicated on the display when in VFO mode. The displayed VFO frequency can be selected and changed by the MHz/MCH button, main knob, or microphone scanning buttons. The displayed VFO frequency can also be stored in memory. Each VFO is independent. In memory mode, press VFO button to switch to VFO mode (last selected VFO A or B). Pressing again shifts to the other VFO.
(2) Frequency Selection
Frequency selection is only in VFO mode. For large frequency changes (>500kHz), use the MHz/MCH button to select the 1 MHz digit nearest the desired frequency. Hold the button for repeated stepping for changes over 1 or 2 MHz.
(3) Single-Frequency Memory Storage
The FT-270R has ten memory channels (1-9 and 0). All can store frequencies from VFOs. Memories 1-8 can store independent transmit and receive frequencies for split-frequency operation. Memories 9 and 0 have special application in the PMS system.
Before storing, select frequency on VFO A or B. Press the M button once to activate memory status checking mode for six seconds. A blinking "M" and blinking channel number indicate memory status mode. The blinking channel is the currently "selected" one for storage. Other blinking channel numbers indicate existing data. Initially, only blinking "1" appears. The selected blinking memory can be changed using the MHz/MCH button. If no buttons are pressed within six seconds, the mode cancels, returning to VFO mode. Pressing M again while in status mode memorizes the displayed frequency in the blinking channel; status info disappears, and operation remains in original VFO mode. To recall, press MR button.
When only the receiving frequency is stored, repeater operation is possible with standard shifts by setting the - S + switch. This allows exchange of transmit/receive frequencies with the REV button. Memories 9 and 0 are limited to this type of repeater operation or simplex. To store additional memories, press M to enter memory status mode, then MHz/MCH to select the next memory (new channel number blinks).
(4) Storage of Transmit Frequencies
Memories 1-8 can store a transmit frequency in addition to the receive frequency, allowing instant recall for repeater operation. The - S + switch and REV button are disabled when operating on a memory with both receive and transmit frequencies stored.
To store an independent transmit frequency, return to VFO mode, retune VFO to desired transmit frequency. Set the - S + switch to center. Press M once, then press and hold PTT while pressing M again. For standard repeater shifts, it's not necessary to retune VFO after receive frequency is stored; just set the - S + switch as required before storing transmit frequency.
It is best to store the receive frequency first, as a memory with only transmit frequency stored cannot be recalled, displayed, or used.
(5) Memory Erasure
To erase a memory channel, overwrite it with new data. For replacing a separate receive/transmit memory with simplex data, the following procedure is recommended to avoid accidental transmission on the wrong frequency: From VFO mode, press M to enter memory status mode, then press MR button. The selected memory will be cleared but remain selected for immediate reprogramming.
(6) Memory Selection and Recall
To recall a memory channel from VFO mode, press the MR button. An "M" and channel number will display. If the channel number blinks and no frequency is displayed, the memory is vacant. To select a different stored memory, press the MHz/MCH button (hold for multi-stepping). The microphone UP and DWN buttons can also select memory channels, with an additional feature described in part (8).
Be careful with the - S + switch setting if transmitting after moving between memories, as it will shift transmit frequency for memories without both receive and transmit frequencies stored.
(7) Frequency Scanning with a VFO
If microphone UP or DWN button is pressed and held for 1/2-second in VFO mode, scanning commences. Scanning continues automatically if no other buttons are pressed, as long as main squelch (set by SQL control) does not open, looping at band edges. Scanning steps are same as tuning steps set by STEP button. Pressing any front panel button except LOW, MR, VFO, or TCALL temporarily halts scanner. LOW button does not affect scanner; the other three cancel scanning and initiate their functions.
When main squelch opens by a signal, scanner halts temporarily. If SCAN switch on bottom cover is "A", scanning resumes automatically after six seconds. If SCAN switch is "B", scanning resumes about two seconds after received carrier drops. While scanner is halted temporarily, MHz decimal blinks. Scanner can be manually stopped by pressing UP or DWN button momentarily, or PTT switch. If PTT is used, transceiver will not transmit until switch is released and pressed again. To restart, press and hold UP or DWN button for 1/2-second.
NOTE: THE TRANSCEIVER MUST BE SWITCHED OFF WHEN CHANGING SCAN RESUME MODES WITH THE SCAN A/B SWITCH ON THE BOTTOM COVER.
(8) Memory Scanning
In memory mode, scanning functions operate only on programmed memory channels. Frequencies not desired in memory scanning can be masked without erasing. To mask a memory, recall it and press M. The channel number will blink as a reminder it is masked. Masked memories are skipped during memory scanning. Masked memories can only be selected by the MHz/MCH button; microphone UP and DWN buttons select only unmasked (and non-vacant) memories. To unmask, recall the memory and press M once again; the channel number stops blinking.
(9) Programmable Memory Scan (PMS)
Frequencies stored in memories 9 and 0 serve as scanning limits for limited band scanning when PMS function is activated. This is useful for limiting scanning to only the FM portion of the band. It is generally best to store the lower frequency in memory 9.
After storing limits, press the PMS button to activate the function. "PMS" appears on display, and the displayed frequency will be that stored in memory 9 (or 0). Press the UP button on the microphone to scan to the frequency stored in memory 0. The scanner will then jump to memory 9 and continue. If frequency in memory 0 is lower than in memory 9, the scanner loops from top of band to bottom, scanning outside the range between memories 9 and 0 (unless DWN button starts scan). Press MR or VFO button to cancel PMS function.
PMS Scan Diagrams Description: The document illustrates four circular diagrams representing PMS scanning behavior with frequencies 145.00MHz and 145.10MHz stored in memories 9 and 0 respectively.
- Diagram 1 (9 lower frequency 145.00MHz, 0 upper frequency 145.10MHz, UP Scan): Shows scanning from 145.00MHz (memory 9) upwards towards 145.10MHz (memory 0).
- Diagram 2 (9 lower frequency 145.00MHz, 0 upper frequency 145.10MHz, DWN Scan): Shows scanning from 145.00MHz (memory 9) downwards, wrapping around the band to 148.00MHz (or 146.00MHz depending on model) and continuing towards 145.10MHz.
- Diagram 3 (9 upper frequency 145.10MHz, 0 lower frequency 145.00MHz, UP Scan): Shows scanning from 145.10MHz (memory 9) upwards, wrapping around the band to 148.00MHz (or 146.00MHz) and continuing towards 145.00MHz.
- Diagram 4 (9 upper frequency 145.10MHz, 0 lower frequency 145.00MHz, DWN Scan): Shows scanning from 145.10MHz (memory 9) downwards towards 145.00MHz (memory 0).
(10) Priority Channel Monitoring
During VFO operation, monitor a previously selected memory channel for activity. Set up by selecting desired priority channel using MR and MHz/MCH buttons, then press PRI button. "PRI" appears on display. The transceiver will check the memory frequency briefly (approx. 300ms) every six seconds, returning to VFO if no activity. If a strong enough signal opens squelch on priority frequency, operation jumps to that frequency, and priority monitoring ceases. The user can respond, then press VFO to return to VFO frequency, announce QSY, then MR to return to memory.
If the - S + button is set for plus or minus repeater shift, it may need adjustment when changing frequencies, unless both receive and transmit frequencies are stored in the memory used for priority checking.
Manual band or PMS scanning can be combined with priority monitoring, but auto-scan features are dedicated to priority. For band scanning, activate PRI first, then use microphone UP and DWN buttons (hold to scan, release to halt). For PMS/priority scanning, press PMS first, then PRI, then microphone UP/DWN buttons.
(11) Tone Squelch (CTCSS) Functions (FTS-8 Option required)
The optional FTS-8 Tone Squelch Unit enables CTCSS encode-only or full encode/decode operation. CTCSS (Continuous Tone-Coded Squelch System) uses a subaudible tone superimposed on the transmitted signal. Encode-only mode allows selective access to repeaters. Encode/decode mode allows silent monitoring of busy channels, squelching receiver unless correct preset tone is detected. Some repeaters retransmit incoming CTCSS signals. Contact repeater group for details.
Before selecting CTCSS frequency and function, set transceiver to VFO mode (A or B) if planning to save CTCSS data in memory.
To select CTCSS tone frequency, press T SET. ENC and DEC indicators blink, and selected tone frequency (default = 67.0 Hz) appears. Tone setting function cancels after six seconds unless a button is pressed. Use microphone UP and DWN buttons, MHz/MCH button, or main dial to select from 42 tone possibilities. Refer to FTS-8 Tone Chart. Once desired tone is selected, press T SET again to set it.
Five tones (67.0Hz to 88.5Hz) are provided twice, once with a leading 0 and once without. Those without leading zero have low-Q decoder filters (Q=40) for half tone selectivity, allowing proper reception from older/less stable tone generators. All other tones have standard high-selectivity (Q=80) decoder filters.
Select CTCSS operation mode using front panel TONE button. One press selects encode-only (ENC displayed); subaudible tone superimposes on voice for repeater access or selective outgoing calls. Receiver is unaffected. Press TONE again (ENC displayed) to select encode/decode (ENC DEC displayed). Receiver remains quiet to all but signals with identical CTCSS tone. Main receiver squelch can still be opened by other stations (BUSY lamp lit), but receiver remains quiet. This allows checking if channel is clear before transmitting. Press TONE again (ENC DEC displayed) to deactivate tone squelch system.
To store tone squelch frequency and mode in a selected memory, first set VFO for desired tone squelch data and VFO frequency. Then press M button twice, as described in part (3).
Tone squelch data can be set or reset using T SET and TONE buttons. If done in memory mode, new data is lost when changing channels or to VFO mode, and original data returns. VFOs must be used to permanently restore data in memories.
FTS-8 CTCSS Tone Chart
| Frequency in Hertz (as displayed) |
|---|
| 67.0* | 118.8 | 173.8 | 067.0 |
| 71.9* | 123.0 | 177.9 | 071.9 |
| 77.0* | 127.3 | 186.2 | 074.4 |
| 82.5* | 131.8 | 192.8 | 077.0 |
| 88.5* | 136.5 | 203.5 | 079.7 |
| 94.8 | 141.3 | 210.7 | 082.5 |
| 100.0 | 146.2 | 218.1 | 085.4 |
| 103.5 | 151.4 | 225.7 | 088.5 |
| 107.2 | 156.7 | 233.6 | 091.5 |
| 110.9 | 162.2 | 241.8 | |
| 114.8 | 167.9 | 250.3 | |
* Decoder Q=40, other codes have decoder Q=80
(12) Voice Synthesizer FVS-1 (Option)
When the optional FVS-1 Unit is installed, operating frequency, VFO or memory indication, and CTCSS tone frequency (if used) are indicated by a female voice in English, each time one of these is changed (or the SPEAK button on the microphone pressed). This feature allows easy and safe operation without looking at the transceiver, beneficial for driving or visually handicapped operators.
The voice synthesizer is always active when installed. However, when the VOICE switch on the bottom cover is OFF, it speaks only when the SPEAK button on the microphone is pressed. When ON, the radio speaks whenever VFO, memory, or tone modes are reselected or frequency changed. Press SPEAK button and adjust VOL control for comfortable volume. In VFO mode, first word is "VFO", followed by "A" or "B", then frequency (e.g., "V five point seven seven zero" for 145.770 MHz). In memory mode, first word is "memory", followed by frequency. In T SET mode, first word is "tone", followed by selected CTCSS tone frequency in Hz.
Memory Backup Information
If the FT-270R is exposed to high voltage "static" discharge, the microprocessor circuitry may shut down, making it impossible to change frequency or perform normal operation.
Before seeking repairs, use the built-in microprocessor reset system. First, turn VOL control OFF, set bottom cover BACKUP switch to OFF. Then turn VOL control ON, and set BACKUP switch back to ON. Normal operation should return, though all previously stored memory data will be erased. If this does not cure the problem, contact the dealer for service assistance.
