Yaesu VX-7R

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The Yaesu VX-7R is a triple band 50MHz (6 Meters), 144MHz (2 Meters) & 440MHz (70 centimeters) handheld amateur radio transceiver with extensive receive coverage, and leading-edge features. The American version also transmits on the 222 MHz (1.25 Meters) band. The Yaesu VX-7RB is the black anodized magnesium casing version of the VX-7R.

The radio is designed to operate in extreme conditions, and is sealed against water and chemicals, making it well-suited for emergency-services duty. Available accessories include remote microphones, earphones, and adapters for digital communications modes.

The VX-7R can be programmed directly from the integral keyboard, or using a computer, linked by a cable which connects to the speaker/microphone connector. There are several free and inexpensive programs available with which to modify settings.

1 Feature overview
2 Some specifications
3 Interesting information
4 Modifications
5 External links

[edit] Feature overview

900 Memories
Wideband receiver, 500kHz - 999MHz (the US version has cellular telephone frequencies blocked)
CTCSS/DCS tone squelch
European Tone Burst
True user-selectable Dual Receive
ARTS-Automatic In-Range Transponder
Backlit Keypad & LCD
Internet Key for Access to WIRES™
DTMF encoder for control of remote systems and telephone dialing

[edit] Some specifications

Frequency Range Receive:

0.5 - 1.8 MHz (BC Band)
1.8 - 30 MHz (Shortwave Band)
30 - 59 MHz (6 Meter Amateur)
59 - 108 MHz (FM)
108 - 137 MHz (Air Band)
137 - 174 MHz (144 MHz HAM)
174 - 222 MHz (VHF-TV)
222 - 225 MHz (222 MHz Ham)
225 - 420 MHz (ACT1: Action Band 1)
420 - 470 MHz (430 MHz HAM)
470 - 729 MHz (UHF-TV)

Frequency Range Transmit:

50 - 54 MHz – 5 Watts
144 - 148 MHz – 5 Watts
222 - 225 MHz – 300 mW (US version)
430 - 450 MHz – 5 Watts

Each band (except 222MHz) can be switched between 5 watts, 1 watt, 300 miliwatts, and 50 miliwatts.

[edit] Interesting information

The VX-7R can transmit a 1 watt AM carrier on the six meter band. While the usefulness of this feature is disputed, it is fun to try. It is recommended to use an external antenna tuned to the lower part of the six meter band for this feature.

The VX-7R is often used for FM voice communications through low earth orbit amateur radio satellites.

[edit] Modifications

(the following Modification for the VX-7R was created by system.support@ttss.net http://www.ttss.net) It can be modified to transmit on MARS and CAPS by removing the solder contacts under the battery pack. Also, a software modification is also now available with the freely available VX Commander software and a data interface cable. Both modifications obtain the same result.

To perform the hardware modification:

-Remove the batter pack, note the solder contacts, 1-8.

-Remove ALL solder contacts for FREEBAND, transmit , 40mhs - 599mhz. CAUTION. DO THIS AT YOUR OWN RISK.

- - WARNING ***

Transmitting on a frequency you are not licenced for is a CRIMINAL OFFENCE in most parts of the world and can cause interference to Licenced users. Remember, AM Transmission (1Watt) is ONLY Possible on the 50Mhz Band. Setting AM on any other freq and pressing the PTT will TRANSMIT AN FM Carrier, NOT AM.

- - Warning ***

Only Transmit between 45-60MHz, 135-155MHz, 420-460MHz for preservation of the output transistor. Transmitting on other freqs put strain on the system and will result in a reduced output signal.

The above modification will NOT Void your warranty if done correctly.