Yaesu VX-2R

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The VX-2R is an ultra-compact amateur radio transceiver produced by Yaesu.

The Yaesu VX-2R is a tiny HT, known for its ability to fit almost anywhere. Its small size and performance make it perfect for a tiny APRS station or combined with a small computer and TNC a tiny packet station

[edit] Feature overview

FM transmit on 2 Meters (1.5 watts) and 70 centimeters (1 watt)
Wide-band receive coverage, from 500 kHz up to 999 MHz
Receive coverage in AM, NFM, and WFM
Experimental channel counter frequency for finding nearby frequncies
User-selectable 10 dB attenuator
Ultra-compact size
CTCSS and DCS decode/encode
Approximately 900 memory channels, with up to 20 banks
PC-programmable and radio-to-radio cloning
RF Squelch capability
Selectable deviation (wide/narrow)
WiRES -- Internet repeater linking
1.5 watts output on 2 Meters
ARTS range transponder for watching communications between two ARTS-equipped radios

The supplied antenna does not work well outside the 2M and 70cm ham bands, and is mediocre in the ham bands. You will need a longer antenna for any serious distance to a repeater. Many users report the push-to-talk switch is very hard to depress. The supplied belt clip is easily broken, many users substitute something else. The red LED backlight is very nice. Battery will last two days (single frequency receive) if not scanning. If scanning, receive time is a few hours. If you use a longer antenna for HF, you will overload the receiver unless the length is under about 10 feet. At 1.5 Watts out, talk time is only about 20 minutes with a fully charged battery. Replacement batteries are very cheap (Fuji BP90 or equiv.)and many user keep several on hand. The lower (100mW) power setting is adequate for repeaters out to 20 miles or so, and allows longer talk time. This is a highly regarded HT based on its performance-to-size ratio, many hams buy more than one.

[edit] Modification

The VX-2 is not difficult to modify. Because the radio uses software-based jumpers, it is not necessary to open the radio up to perform most modification. A MARS / CAP modification can be performed, expanding transmit coverage outside of ham bands slightly; it is also possible to perform a freeband modification to the radio without any hardware modifications. Although in most cases illegal based on Federal Communications Commission rules, the freeband mod opens transmit coverage significantly, allowing use on business band and FRS bands, along with several lesser-used frequency bands.