Yaesu VX Series Features and Accessories Overview

The Yaesu VX series is a line of handheld radios designed for reliable communication. They're known for their durability and long battery life.

These radios are built with a rugged design, featuring a dust-resistant and water-resistant construction. The VX series is also equipped with a 1422 channel capacity, making it perfect for use in a variety of settings.

With a built-in flashlight and emergency beacon, the Yaesu VX series is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency responders. The radio's compact size and weight make it easy to carry on long hikes or in emergency situations.

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The VX Series Models were a line of handheld transceivers designed for amateur radio use. They were quad-band transceivers with dual VFOs, providing 5 watts FM on 50/144/430 MHz and 1.5 watts on 222 MHz.

The VX-8R, VX-8E, VX-8D, and VX-8G models were part of this series, each with its own unique features. The VX-8R and VX-8E models were manufactured for use in North America and Europe, respectively.

The VX-8D was an "APRS enhanced" version of the VX-8R, which included expanded capabilities and more device memory. This made it a popular choice among amateur radio enthusiasts who wanted a more advanced transceiver.

The VX-1R is a micro-miniature multiband FM transceiver. It's designed for licensed "Ham" or amateur radio operations.

This tiny device is purportedly the smallest UHF/VHF hand-held transceiver available, measuring 4.7 × 8.1 × 2.5 cm (1.9 × 3.2 × 1.0 in).

The VX-1R will receive and transmit in both the 2 meter band and the 70 cm band. The 2 meter band covers frequencies from 144-148 MHz, while the 70 cm band covers 430-450 MHz.

This transceiver provides receive coverage of the AM and FM broadcast bands. It also picks up the VHF and UHF TV bands, the VHF AM aircraft band, and a wide range of commercial and public safety frequencies.

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The VX-3R is a high-powered rangefinder that's designed for serious hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. It has a 7x magnification and a 20-400 yard range, making it perfect for long-range shots.

This model features a 600-yard angle correction, which is a game-changer for anyone who's ever had to adjust for slope or wind. It also has a 1/4 second scan speed, allowing you to quickly and accurately measure distances.

The VX-3R has a rugged design that can withstand the toughest outdoor conditions, including extreme temperatures and heavy use. It's also waterproof and fog-proof, giving you peace of mind in any environment.

The VX-5R is an ultra-compact amateur radiotransceiver produced by Yaesu. It's designed for portability and ease of use, making it a great option for outdoor enthusiasts and emergency communicators.

The VX-5R can transmit on FM frequencies across multiple bands, including 6 Meters, 2 Meters, and 70 centimeters. This provides users with a range of options for communication.

Here are some specific transmit power ratings for the VX-5R:

The VX-5R is a versatile and reliable option for amateur radio enthusiasts, and its compact design makes it easy to take on the go.

The VX-6R is a triple band handheld amateur radio transceiver with extensive receive coverage, and leading-edge features. It's designed to operate in extreme conditions, and is sealed at all openings to permit underwater submersion up to 1 meter (3 feet) for 30 minutes.

Available accessories include remote microphones, earphones. The VX-6R is a great option for those who need a reliable radio that can withstand the elements.

The radio operates on VHF and UHF frequencies, with receive coverage from 0.500-999.998 MHz (USA cellular blocked) and transmit frequencies of 144-148 MHz, 222-225 MHz, and 430-450 MHz. It's a versatile radio that can handle a variety of communication tasks.

The VX-6R has a compact design, measuring 89 mm × 58 mm × 29 mm and weighing 277 grams (including battery). It's a great size for carrying around, and the battery life is decent.

Here's a summary of the VX-6R's key features:

The VX-6R was first released in 2005, and it's been a popular choice among amateur radio enthusiasts ever since. Its durability and versatility make it a great option for a variety of communication tasks.

The Yaesu VX-7R is a discontinued handheld transceiver designed for amateur radio use. It's a quad-band transceiver that can transmit and receive on 50 MHz, 220 MHz, 144 MHz, and 440 MHz bands.

This radio is built to withstand extreme conditions, with a magnesium alloy case that's shockproof and sealed against water and chemicals. It's perfect for emergency-services duty.

The VX-7R has a wideband receiver that covers 500 kHz to 999 MHz, although the US version blocks cellular telephone frequencies. It also features user-selectable Dual Receive and a backlit keypad and LCD display.

You can store up to 900 memories in this radio, and it has a range of sensors that track temperature, voltage, real-time clock, and barometric pressure (with an optional module). The display is a 132 × 64 pixel back-lit dot matrix display.

Here are some of the key features of the Yaesu VX-7R:

The Yaesu VX-8R/VX-8E is a discontinued handheld transceiver designed for use on VHF and UHF amateur radio bands. It's a quad-band transceiver with dual VFOs, providing 5 watts FM on 50/144/430 MHz and 1.5 watts on 222 MHz.

The VX-8R/VX-8E was manufactured for use with the North American band plan, with models ending in -R, and for use in Europe, with models ending in -E. The radio is semi-waterproof and shock-resistant, designed to meet commercial grade standards.

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This radio includes a broadcast band AM/FM radio as well as AM-only shortwave listening capabilities. Its reception range is 500 kHz to 999.990 MHz.

Available accessories for the VX-8R/VX-8E include hand microphones, earphones, a GPS receiver, a Bluetooth unit, a barometric pressure sensor module, and adapters for digital communications modes.

The VX-8R/VX-8E was eventually replaced by the also-discontinued VX-8D(-R/-E), which is an "APRS enhanced" version of the VX-8R with expanded capabilities and more device memory.

The VX-8 family can be programmed using the free, open-source CHIRP software.

The Yaesu VX series is a line of handheld transceivers that offer a range of features and specifications. The VX-7R, in particular, is a popular model that has gained a loyal following among amateur radio enthusiasts.

The VX-7R can receive signals on a wide range of frequencies, from 0.510 to 999.998 MHz, with some bands having narrower coverage. For example, the 2-meter band is available from 137 to 173.995 MHz.

The transceiver has a built-in antenna and can transmit on various modes, including AM and FM. On the six meter band, it can transmit at 1 watt carrier power, making it suitable for driving a combination of bands.

The VX-7R has a "Main" VFO that offers broader frequency coverage, while the "Sub" VFO is limited to frequencies around the 50, 144, and 440 amateur bands. This allows users to select the best VFO for their specific needs.

The transceiver can be modified to transmit on MARS and CAP frequencies through both hardware and software techniques. However, it's worth noting that the radio does not meet NTIA standards for either MARS or CAP.

Here's a breakdown of the VX-7R's output power on each band:

The VX-7R's output power can be reduced from 5 watts to 2.5 watts, 1 watt, or 50 milliwatts on some bands. This allows users to conserve battery life and extend their communication range.

The transceiver's audio output has been known to be affected by changes in barometric pressure or altitude, resulting in reduced and muffled audio. However, Yaesu has since addressed this issue by adding a small valve under the bottom left rubber armor.

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Some users have reported poor microphone sensitivity, which can be improved by piercing small holes in the rubber seal covering the microphone diaphragm. However, this modification sacrifices the radio's waterproof capability.

The VX-7R can be programmed with the open-source Chirp software, making it a popular choice among amateur radio enthusiasts.

The Yaesu VX series radios come with a range of accessories that can enhance your communication experience. The shipped box typically includes a transceiver, battery pack, charger, antenna, belt clip, hand strap, operating manual, and warranty card.

The VX-6R also has an optional barometric module, the SU-1, which allows for barometric pressure and altitude measurement. This user-installed accessory mounts under the battery compartment.

If you're looking to upgrade your antenna, consider the Diamond SRH320A 144/220/440 MHz Tri-Band Handheld SMA Antenna, which can improve performance across all three bands.

The Yaesu VX-6R comes with a bunch of useful accessories right out of the box. These include the FNB-80LI 7.4 V, 1400 mAh Lithium ion battery pack, the NC-72B/C 5-Hour Battery Charger, the YHA-67 Antenna, a Belt Clip & Hand Strap, the Operating Manual, and a Warranty Card.

The optional SU-1 barometric module is a great add-on for those who need to measure barometric pressure and altitude. It can be user-installed under the battery compartment.

The VX-6R has some pretty impressive transmit power capabilities, with a maximum of 5.0 W on the 144-148 MHz and 420-450 MHz bands. Each band can be switched between 5 W, 2.5 W, 1.0 W, and 300 mW.

If you're looking to upgrade your antenna, the Diamond SRH320A 144/220/440 MHz Tri-Band Handheld SMA Antenna is a great option. It can improve the overall performance of the radio and help you get some extra distance.

You'll also want to consider getting some SMA to PL 259 adapters if you plan on using your handheld in your vehicle or experimenting with homemade antennas. This will allow you to quickly connect the radio's antenna adapter to a standard antenna coax line.

A programming cable and software can also be super handy, especially if you have a lot of memory channels to load. The software can interface with various directories, such as ARRL Travel Plus, to program your local repeaters and more.

Here are some recommended accessories that come with the VX-6R:

And here are some optional accessories you might consider:

The VX-2 radio is a great device, and one of its best features is how easy it is to modify. You can perform a MARS/CAP modification, which expands transmit coverage outside of ham bands slightly.

This modification is a great way to get more use out of your radio, and it's relatively easy to do. No hardware modifications are required, making it a simple process.

The VX-2 can also be modified for "freeband" use, which allows transmission outside the authorized amateur radio bands. This modification is not recommended, as it's against Federal Communications Commission rules.

If you do decide to perform a "freeband" modification, you'll be able to use your radio on business band and FRS bands, along with several lesser-used frequency bands.

The Yaesu VX series is known for its reliability, but like any electronic device, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Check the antenna connections regularly to ensure they are secure and not loose.

A loose connection can cause poor reception and affect the overall performance of the radio.

A bug has been found, as the CTCSS decode may not work properly when the VX-6R is operating with external power.

The VX-6R may become insensitive to narrow-band FM signals, which can lead to dropped connections or poor audio quality.

If you're experiencing issues with your VX-6R, it's essential to check if you're using external power, as this could be the root of the problem.

External power sources can sometimes cause interference or malfunctions, so try switching to battery power to see if that resolves the issue.

If the problem persists, it may be worth checking the sensitivity of your radio to narrow-band FM signals, as this can also cause issues with reception.

Here are some potential causes of sensitivity issues:

Modifications can be a bit tricky, but the VX-2 radio makes it relatively easy thanks to its software-based jumpers.

You don't need to open up the radio to perform most modifications, which is a big plus.

One modification you can do is a MARS/CAP modification, which expands transmit coverage outside of ham bands slightly.

This modification is a great way to get more use out of your radio.

Another option is a "freeband" modification, which allows transmission outside the authorized amateur radio bands.

Be aware that this modification is generally considered illegal based on Federal Communications Commission rules.

However, it does open up transmit coverage significantly, allowing use on business band and FRS bands, along with several lesser-used frequency bands.

The VX-3R radio has its own set of modification possibilities.

It can be modified to transmit on MARS and CAP frequencies through hardware techniques.

To do this, you'll need to remove an SMD located under the battery pack.

The VX-3R is also capable of being programmed by the open-source Chirp software.

The Yaesu VX series radios are packed with features that make them a joy to use. One of the standout features is the ability to decode and encode CTCSS and DCS, as well as European Tone Burst.

You'll also appreciate the RF Squelch capability, which helps to eliminate unwanted noise and interference. Additionally, the VX series radios offer selectable deviation, allowing you to choose between wide and narrow modes.

The VX series radios also have a wide-band receive coverage, from 500 kHz up to 999 MHz, making them incredibly versatile. This is especially useful for scanning and monitoring various frequencies.

One feature that's particularly useful is the user-selectable 10 dB attenuator, which helps to prevent damage to the radio's receiver. This is especially important when working with high-power signals.

The VX series radios are also incredibly compact, making them easy to carry around. This is perfect for hams who need to move quickly and easily between locations.

The radios also have a range of memory features, including frequency, CTCSS/DCS squelch tone and mode, repeater offset, and alphanumeric labels. This makes it easy to store and recall frequently used frequencies.

Here are some of the key memory features of the Yaesu VX series radios:

The VX series radios also offer a range of transmission features, including FM transmit on the 2-meter band and 70-centimeter band. The radios can transmit at 1 watt @ 6 V EXT DC or 500 milliwatts @ 3.6 V DC.

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One feature that's particularly useful is the channel counter function, which helps you locate the frequency of nearby transmitters. This is especially useful when trying to find a specific frequency or avoid interference.

The VX series radios also have a range of display features, including an adjustable backlit keypad and LCD. This makes it easy to use the radio in a variety of lighting conditions.

The Yaesu VX series is a line of compact handheld amateur radio transceivers produced by Yaesu, a Japanese brand of commercial and amateur radio equipment.

One line of the VX series includes ultra-compact, lower-power, dual-band transceivers that were introduced with the VX-1R and were succeeded by the VX-2R and VX-3R.

The Yaesu VX series also includes a series of 5-Watt tri-band transceivers that were introduced with the VX-5R and were succeeded with the VX-6R, VX-7R, and VX-8R.

The Yaesu VX series is designed to operate in extreme conditions and is sealed at all openings to allow underwater submersion up to one meter for approximately 30 minutes.

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The Yaesu VX series is a line of compact handheld amateur radio transceivers produced by Yaesu, a Japanese brand of commercial and amateur radio equipment. The series includes two lines of transceivers with different features and capabilities.

One line includes ultra-compact, lower-power, dual-band transceivers that were introduced with the VX-1R and succeeded by the VX-2R and VX-3R. These transceivers are designed for basic amateur radio use.

The second line is a series of 5-Watt tri-band transceivers that were introduced with the VX-5R and succeeded by the VX-6R, VX-7R, and VX-8R. These transceivers offer more advanced features and capabilities.

The Yaesu VX-6R is a triple-band handheld amateur radio transceiver designed to operate in extreme conditions. It's sealed at all openings to allow underwater submersion up to one meter for approximately 30 minutes.

This radio can store up to 900 memories and features a channel counter function for locating the frequencies of nearby transmitters.

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The Yaesu VX-6R Radio is a great tool for preppers. It's a Tri-Band Radio that allows you to transmit on 2 meters (144MHZ), 1.25 meters (220MHZ), and 70 cm (430MHZ).

Having a wide range of operation on UHF/VHF Ham Bands is incredibly useful. The radio's receiver range covers 504kHz to 998.99MHz, making it great for monitoring and pulling in stations.

The TX and RX range of the Yaesu VX-6R is truly impressive. Being able to transmit on three different ham bands and gather intel from such a wide range of frequencies makes this a great prepper radio.

The radio's solid weatherproof features are a major plus. It's JIS7 Resistant, meaning you can drop it into water and nothing will enter the casing or touch the internal components.

The huge memory bank of the VX-6R is also a game-changer. You can program 1,000 channels into the memory, which is perfect for prepping.