[Yaesu-FT-991] MARS / CAP MOD

I've tested and this proves that this rig is capable of tx at 446MHz for ex as it is.. software mod only I guess.. some hacker among us? :-)

I've checked that out of band TX is possible only via service menu. Manually tunned 446.05625MHz and rig was putting power to the antenna with a flawless FM modulation. Im a owner of a EU version, and it will NOT tx above 440.000MHz under normal running circumstances. So, fisically everything should be ready for tx, just software blocking our path I guess.

Hi did you actually change settings in the service menu? if so what settings?i think a lot of people ,myself included are little bit dismayed at the lack of tx from 146 to 148 after all the 991 is advertised on yaesu uk site as 144-148 tx on vhf.. i have emailed yaesu uk on numerous times to get an explanation for this but with no reply....yaesu are guilty of misrepresentation and false advertising so they need to be more forthcoming with the required information.

FT-991 Expand TX ( MARS Modification )

FT-991 versus TS-590

I have a TS-590 and now a new FT-991. I would appreciate any comments or discussion on reasons to keep the TS-590 or should I just go ahead and sell it. It seems that the FT-991 will do everything that my TS-590 did but I am always reading about how great the TS-590 are that I am concerned that after I sell it I will regret it.

I know that I should be able to compare the two rigs myself but I can't.

Any thoughts comments, pro and cons, etc. would be appreciated.

FT-991 Transceiver SWR meter on 2 and 440

My internal SWR meter is reading 1.5:1 on both 2m and 440
running 35 watts into a 50 OHM BIRD load connected DIRECTLY
to the VHF/UHF SO239 connector. Nothing wrong with this load!
Same thing with another BIRD 50 OHM load via a short coax cable.
SWR goes to zip when the power is reduced to 5-10 watts.
Using FM and RTTY modes to generate carrier.
160 thru 6 meter readings are fine.
Are the SWR meter readings valid on 2 and 440?
Royce - W3IF

[Yaesu-FT-991-group] Serial Number

My radio is 4N020430. The last owner took delivery Jan 2015.  I recently traded a IC-7100 for it.  However shortly before he saw my ad in qth.com, he had already sent the radio back to Yaesu. They up dated the Firmware, found the PA bias was out of adjustment and fixed that. Bill had a ton of issues with the ATU and the radio with or without the ATU going into HISWR. The replaced parts in the ATU and did some other mods, but would not tell him what they were or why they did them, even though he called a number of times and asked. He was very open to the condition of the radio and what he did and why before he approached me for a trade. 3 weeks later (Yaesu was slow), he got the radio back, tested it and the same day he mailed it to me and we did the trade...

Was the radio bad?  It appears so.  It also appears he headed off blown finals... 90% of the time the radio was used vhf/uhf and 10% PSK31 at 20-30 watts.  

The ATU is still as bad as the FT-450/AT I once had... 3:1 in a radio that is intended for a field radio these days is just plain stupid.... It will load my G5RV on 40 and 20 meters only. It will smooth the SWR on my vertical on 40, 20, 17, 15, and 10 meters. If I want to use it with a EndFed 9:1 unun, then the internal ATU is useless.  Luckily I have a MFJ-2289 Big Ear portable full size dipole for 20-6 meter and with the added coil a OCD for 40 and 30 meters and don't need the internal ATU. The antenna has a built in Guanella Balun and I can honestly say it is THE SINGLE BEST portable antenna I have ever used and that is a long list.

I have had the radio for only a few weeks... Still learning it. Basically a nice radio, but far from easy to use as compared to say the IC-7100, my K3 or even my KX3 and other I have had. I would rate the radio good to very good at this time but far from great. Because all the repeaters in the White mountains of AZ, where I live,  belong to clubs and they jumped at the special fusion deal, I will have this radio probably for quite awhile for C4FM/FM. At the time I have used in the radio 95% of the time for Digital using FlDigi. Soon I will tackle WSPR and WSJT-X. 5% if the time FM. I have not tried C4FM as of yet.

FT-991 software FTRestore is a Windows desktop application

FTRestore

FTRestore is a Windows desktop application I developed to upload, download and compare memory channels and menu settings in the Yaesu FTDX1200 and FT-991model transceivers. Details of the Regular Memory Channels and the PMS Memory Channels can be uploaded from the transceiver into a worksheet grid control where they can be modified as required, before being saved in a Microsoft Excel compatible file. Details of the Menu Settings can also be uploaded, saved and downloaded. The files can be opened at a later time and have the memory channel and menu setting details downloaded again to the transceiver. There is also the ability to compare the memory channel and menu settings details in FTRestore with the values in the transceiver to detect any discrepancies before uploading or downloading.

Yaesu FT-991 - Programming the Memory Channels

Yaesu FT-991 - Programming the Memory Channels
Talks us through how to program and access the user memory channels of the Yaesu FT-991 transceiver.

FT991 MENU Setup video

FT991 MENU Setup: Items 1 through 30


I cover Items 1 through 30 in the Setup MENU portion of the FT-991 in this video. This includes such things as Fast, Mid, and Slow AGC time settings, "My Call" Indication display time,

Yaesu FT-991 More information on finals

Further to my earlier messages, I do have a little more information to pass on.

Here in the UK at least, there have been changes made to the PA circuitry to improve the PA's ability to handle a high SWR. Also some changes to the ALC circuitry & calibration. All new 991's in the UK have these mods.

None of this will probably not come as any great surprise to many on this list. I think we should applaud Yaesu though for dealing with this issue and standing by their customers and the reputation of their products - anyone purchasing new from now on should not have any issues going forwards. I would suggest anyone with any issues should contact their local dealer or service centre for advice.

I hope that helps. I have to say, I have been very impressed with this radio in the first week of ownership - can't wait to use it as my main "holiday" radio!

Before anyone asks, I do not have detailed information about the mods - some information in the corporate world is of course, sensitive and not for public release - quite understandably, give we hams have a penchant for "fiddling" with radios! 

I trust I have not breached any "confidentialities" by saying as much as I have, but I wanted to reassure group members that Yaesu have a handle on this. 

As I say, I suggest you contact your dealer or service centre if you want further advice and reassurance.

Yaesu-FT-991 USB Audio Codec question

In WSJT I have two USB Audio CODEC's listed:
Microphone (USB Audio CODEC)
Microphone (2-USB Audio CODEC)
Speakers (USB Audio CODEC)
Speakers (2 - USB Audio CODEC)

fldigi shows the same thing.   In WSJT, I had to select (2-USB Audio CODEC) for it to work.  I don't have fldigi set up yet, just took a peek to see which sound cards were listed.

I had zero USB Audio CODEC's until I turned on the FT-991, then I had two.   Is this normal?

Also, I have 3 COM ports associated with the rig:
Silicon Labs CP210X USB to UART Bridge (COM 4)
Silicon Labs CP210X USB to UART Bridge Enhanced Com Port (COM 5)
Silicon Labs CP210X USB to UART Bridge  Standard Com Port (COM 6)
Is this normal?  I expected two. 

Any input would be appreciated.  This computer stuff can be confusing when getting used to a new rig.

Yaesu FT-991 Final Stage

For background information please refer to my previous posts and the comments received on the FT-991 ALC problem and HF PA issue.

The following procedure for setting the Yaesu FT-991 final stage idling current has not been verified against Yaesu’s technical supplement for the FT-991.  Use this procedure at your own risk.

Having noticed that the idling current measured on the working FT-991 was circa 2.5A and studying the FT-450 technical supplement for similarities (thanks to Dave Bird G6JED for that pointer), I noted that the FT-450 technical supplement specifies 1A (+/- 100ma) for each RD100HFF1.  If you set the FT-991’s idling current accordingly, max RF output is on the low side circa (90W) on 20m USB.  My conclusion from testing is that the idling current for each of the RD100HFFI’s should be circa 1.25A to achieve full output or at least it gets the radio to the total idle current of 2.5A originally set by Yaesu.  While I initially opted to set the idling current to 2.5A, but have subsequently decided to revisit that decision and have chosen to set each RD100HFF1 for 1A giving a total idling current of 2A.

Alignment Procedure Yaesu FT-991 Final Stage Idling Current

The following procedure assumes the top covers of the Yaesu FT-991 have been removed. Click on the image to enlarge to view test and adjustment points.

1. Ensure a dummy load is connected to the HF antenna

[Yaesu-FT-991] Memory Recall

[Yaesu-FT-991] Memory Recall

I'm sure I'm missing something in the manual. I have programmed some memories with no problem. When I try to recall a memory, I hit the MCH softkey and nothing happens when I turn the multi knob. I can see the list of memory channels, but I can't recall one. Otherwise, I'm really enjoying my new FT991.

When I have the normal Frequency and S-Meter up on the FT-991 TFT screen, I just hit the V/M button and the rig goes the the last memory channel I last used. Then just use the MULTI knob to scroll through the memory channels. 

Press the M/V button to be in memory mode, MEM ## in upper left of touch screen. Touch the MCH touch key. Rotate the Multi knob and memories will scroll thru the frequency window, MEM # changing.
You cannot recall memories when screen shows the Grey memory list.

To recall memories you press the V/M button. To change from memory channel to memory channel, you press the MCH Icon on the screen, then rotate the MULTI knob.

[Yaesu-FT-991] Power Used on Standby | Receive

Does anyone know how much power the FT991 uses on standby or in receive mode.

Or more specifically how would it work running off of a battery if I dial the power down to 5 or 10 watts.

Yaesu FT-991 Firmware Update Main (Ver.02.08) 9/11/2015

Yaesu FT-991 Firmware Update
FT-991 Quadband

FT-991 HF, 50, 144, 430 MHz All Mode – The Yaesu USA Update now the Firmware MAIN Ver. 02.08 of 9/11/2915. [Note] Please read the Yaesu Upgrade Manual & Firmware Informations Main: V.0208 • Improved and optimized.

QST magazine reviews the FT-991 on November, 2015 !



[Note]: Please read the Yaesu Firmware Upgrade Manual before proceding to the Yaesu multiple software installations and employees by different types of transfer software .exe!-

[Note] The FT-991 CAT commands will not work the same after updating to V02-08. – The original CAT “CN” command was only able to set the tone frequency of ENC/CTCSS. – The V02-08 expands the parameter to other than ENC/CTCSS tone frequency; it includes setting the DCS code also.

Please refer to the CAT Oper. Reference Book (v.1508-C0)

The time displayed on the FT-991

The time displayed on the FT-991 does not change between Local and Zulu

Cause/Symptom:

The time displayed on the FT-991 does not change between Local and Zulu

Solution:

Time does not change automatically on the FT-991 when switched between local time and Zulu time, it must be changed manually.

Yaesu FT-991 Transceiver is capable

The Yaesu FT-991 Transceiver is capable of operating SSB, CW, AM, FM, Packet and System Fusion C4FMDigital. The legendary tradition of Yaesu design is a legacy of excellence established decades ago, providing quality, stability and durability.

The Yaesu FT-991 is designed for the most competitive operating situations, with a suite of new features to’enhance the experience. Whether you primarily operate at home, mobile or in the field, the FT-991 will provide outstanding fundamental performance and an inviting expansion into a full featured base station.

Radio Features;

160 Meters through 70 Centimeters – SSB/CW/FM/C4FM Digital/AM/RTTY/PSK
100 Watts (2 Meter / 70 Centimeter: 50 Watts) of Solid Performance
3.5 inch TFT Full-Color Touch Panel Operation for Superior Operability and Visibility
High Speed Spectrum Scope with ASC (Automatic Spectrum-Scope Control) built-in
Roofing Filter 3 kHz and 15 kHz
High Accuracy TCXO ±0.5 ppm and high resolution DDS and PLL local oscillator
32-bit High Speed Floating Point IF DSP
IF WIDTH and IF SHIFT provides great QRM Rejection
CONTOUR, DNR, IF Notch and APF (Audio Peak Filter, CW only)
160 – 6 Meters High Speed Automatic Antenna Tuner is included

http://systemfusion.yaesu.com/ft-991/

YAESU FT-991 review

I held off buying initially as I was worried about all the problems being reported. I was torn between something top drawer like the FTDX-5000MP and an all things to all men like the FT-991.

The FT-991 should have been my choice of radio as soon as it came out. Its got all I want from a radio – decent receiver, battery capable, and one radio for all bands, all modes, both portable and base.

However, I was stuck in the “I like a traditional radio” mentality and kept buying and selling the FT-817ND/FT-857D/FT-897D but the receiver is just too noisy, even using an external speaker and DSP, they never stayed in the shack long. When the FTDX-5000MP went down to £3,600 including the station monitor, I snapped one up – my 3rd FTDX-5000 since becoming a ham back in 2008. Alas, I wasn't happy running on a uninterruptable power supply should there be a power cut and so I tried an FT-991. The FTDX-5000MP is going up for sale – as is the FT-7900 which becomes surplus to requirements.

I have only had it two weeks but my PA stage hasn't blown yet, even under some pretty tricky tuning cycles on the extremes of 160m using the YT-1200 ATU (which is excellent – used one on the FT-450D and FTDX-3000). My other fear was the longevity of the touch screen. That seems quite robust and I find myself saying “hey do you think anything lasts forever? Especially something costing only £1,150!”. OK the receiver isn't going to be hardcore like the K3 or the FTDX-5000 but remember the kind of pileups T32C DXpedition had to handle with just FT-450D rigs, well, I think following their achievements, anything is possible and the FT-991 is streets ahead of the FT-450D.

FT-991 Software Update

The latest versions are listed below with the release dates. 
 MAIN Software Version 02-02 (07/24/15)
 DSP Software Version 01-04 (07/24/15)
 TFT Software Version 02-01 (07/24/15) 

*If you already have MAIN: Ver. 02-02, DSP: Ver. 01-04 and TFT: Ver. 02-01 software versions, it is not necessary to update the FT-991 again. 

There are four different Software installations. Each one must be followed carefully. Installing the wrong type software may cause difficulties. Check your radio before installing software to be sure which updates are needed. Please read the FT-991 Firmware Upgrade Manual before proceeding. 

If multiple software installations are required the MAIN software should be installed first, as it is the only one that requires a press and hold in the [F(M-LIST)] key while turning the radio back on. This resets the radio and locks in the new software.
Before installing new firmware, please verify your current version firmware with the following procedure:

FT-991 Software Update and Version Identification

http://www.yaesu.com/downloadFile.cfm?FileID=8936&FileCatID=42&FileName=FT-991%20Update%20Firmware%20Information%2007-24-15.pdf&FileContentType=application%2Fpdf

Download the FT-991 data and [FT-991_Firmware_Update_JUL24.zip] from the following website:
http://www.yaesu.com/indexVS.cfm?cmd=DisplayProducts&ProdCatID=102&encProdID=D24F 60F33816ED8BE5568D7E2B5E2131&DivisionID=65&isArchived=0 

Please read the FT-991 Firmware Upgrade Manual before proceeding! Main: Ver. 0202, DSP: Ver. 0104 and TFT: Ver. 0201 (07/24/15)

• The WIRES-X function is added*
  
• Improved and optimized.
  *This new firmware update enables the FT-991 operator to connect to a WiRES-X Node station and easily communicate worldwide through the WiRES-X VoIP network, without the need for any additional accessories.
  We hope this new firmware will increase your enjoyment of your FT-991. Thank you for choosing Yaesu radios. If you have any problems or questions, please contact Yaesu, Amateur Tech Support amateurtech@yaesu.com. 
  

http://systemfusion.yaesu.com/ft-991/

Unboxing the Yaesu FT991

Unboxing the Yaesu FT991

http://youtu.be/odlK8QgeWL0

FT-991

Yaesu's Newest Rig for 2015 FT-991
160 Meters through 70 Centimeters –

 SSB/CW/FM/C4FM Digital/AM/RTTY/PSK

100 Watts

FT-991 100W HF/50 MHz, 50W VHF/UHF Compact Base Station Transceiver. 

This New Generation All-Mode Transceiver is capable of operating SSB, CW, AM, FM, Packet and System Fusion C4FM Digital. The FT-991 is designed for the most competitive operating situations, with a suite of new features to enhance the experience. Whether you primarily operate at home, mobile or in the field, the FT-991 will provide outstanding fundamental performance plus give you easy access to the full range of exciting modes available on the ham bands today.

The FT-991 provides solid transmitter performance with up to 100 Watts on HF/50MHz and 50 Watts on 144/430 MHz. Recognizing an all-important Amateur Radio Golden Rule - “You cannot work them if you cannot hear them”– the FT 991 features a rugged state-of-the-art highly balanced receiver circuit configuration. The highspeed floating point DSP chip TMS320C6746 (3000 MIPS / 2250 MFLOPS) from Texas Instruments used in the receiver design guarantees excellent interference rejection with actual signals under real-world conditions, not only on HF but also in the VHF and UHF bands.

The 1st IF frequency is protected by selectable robust 3 kHz and 15 kHz roofing filters that effectively attenuate interfering signals. The triple conversion circuit structure allows highly flexible gain distribution at each stage. This proven receive design architecture enables elimination of unwanted signals through filters at each stage as well as optimized gain distribution.

A built-in 3.5-in TFT full color touch screen high resolution display with loads of information provides stress-free operability and visibility for the FT-991 user. Advanced Spectrum Scope with ASC (Automatic Spectrum-Scope Control) located just below the LCD display gives the operator all the information for comfortable QSO on the DXing scene.

YAESU FT-991 to ICOM IC-7700

YAESU FT-991 to ICOM IC-7700

Comparative test Yaesu FT-991 with Icom IC-7700 and evidence of agreement in 20m