Vertex Standard VX-160U User manual

1
Introduction
This manual provides technical information necessary for servicing the VX-160U and VX-180U FM Transceiver.
Servicing this equipment requires expertise in handling surface-mount chip components. Attempts by non-qualified
persons to service this equipment may result in permanent damage not covered by the warranty, and may be illegal in
some countries.
Two PCB layout diagrams are provided for each double-sided circuit board in the transceiver. Each side of is referred
to by the type of the majority of components installed on that side (“leaded” or “chip-only”). In most cases one side has
only chip components, and the other has either a mixture of both chip and leaded components (trimmers, coils, electrolytic
capacitors, ICs, etc.), or leaded components only.
While we believe the technical information in this manual to be correct, VERTEX STANDARD assumes no liability
for damage that may occur as a result of typographical or other errors that may be present. Your cooperation in pointing
out any inconsistencies in the technical information would be appreciated.
©2003 VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD. EC013U90A
Service Manual
VX-160U/-180U
UHF FM Transceiver
Operating Manual Reprint............................ 2
Cloning ........................................................................ 6
Specifications ................................................... 7
Exploded View & Miscellaneous Parts ...... 8
Contents
Block Diagram ................................................. 9
Circuit Description ................................11
Alignment .................................................13
Board Unit (
Schematics, Layouts & Parts )
MAIN Unit ............................................................... 17
VX-160U VX-180U
VERTEX STANDARD CO., LTD.
4-8-8 Nakameguro, Meguro-Ku, Tokyo 153-8644, Japan
VERTEX STANDARD
US Headquarters
10900 Walker Street, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A.
YAESU EUROPE B.V.
P.O. Box 75525, 1118 ZN Schiphol, The Netherlands
YAESU UK LTD.
Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Close
Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.
VERTEX STANDARD HK LTD.
Unit 5, 20/F., Seaview Centre, 139-141 Hoi Bun Road,
Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong

2
Operating Manual Reprint
Controls & Connectors Before You Begin
Battery Pack Installation and Removal
ÌTo install the battery, hold the transceiver with your
left hand, so your palm is over the speaker and your
thumb is on the top of the belt clip. Insert the battery
pack into the battery compartment on the back of the
radio while tilting the Belt Clip outward, then close
the Battery Pack Latch until it locks in place with a
“Click.”
Display Icons & Indicators (VX-180 Only)
ÌTo remove the battery, turn the radio off and remove
any protective cases. Open the Battery Pack latch on
the bottom of the radio, then slide the battery down-
ward and out from the radio while holding the Belt
Clip.
Caution!
Do not attempt to open any of the rechargeable Ni-
Cd packs, as they could explode if accidentally short-
circuited.
Low Battery Indication
ÌAs the battery discharges during use, the voltage gradu-
ally becomes lower. When the battery voltage reaches
6.3 volts, substitute a freshly charged battery and re-
charge the depleted pack. The TX/BUSY indicator on
the top of the radio will blink red (on the VX-180, the
“” icon will appear on the LCD) when the battery
voltage is low.
ÌAvoid recharging Ni-Cd batteries often with little use
between charges, as this can degrade the charge capac-
ity. We recommend that you carry an extra, fully-
charged pack with you so the operational battery may
be used until depletion (this “deep cycling” technique
promotes better long-term battery capacity).
Microphone
Speaker
MIC/SP Jack
(
External Mic/Earphone
)
VOL/PWR Knob
CH (Channel)Selector
Monitor Button
Push To Talk
(PTT)Switch
Antenna
LED Indicator
Glows Green Monitor on
Blinking Green Busy Channel (or SQL off)
Glows Red Transmitting
Blinking Red Battery Voltage is low
Blinking Yellow Receiving a Selective Call
LCD (VX-180)
Soft KEY (VX-180)
Battery Pack Latch
8 Character Alpha-numeric
Invertible Display
This icon is the “Low Battery” in-
dicator, which appears when the
battery voltage becomes too low
for proper operation.
This indicator confirms that
DUAL 2-TONE DECODE is active.
This indicator confirms that
DUAL WATCH is active.
This indicator confirms that
this channel will be skipped
during scan.

3
Operating Manual Reprint
Preliminary Steps
ÌInstall a charged battery pack onto the transceiver, as
described previously.
ÌScrew the supplied antenna onto the Antenna jack.
Never attempt to operate this transceiver without an
antenna connected.
ÌIf you have a Speaker/Microphone, we recommend that
it not be connected until you are familiar with the ba-
sic operation of the VX-160/-180.
Operation Quick Start
ÌTurn the top panel’s VOL/
PWR knob clockwise to turn
on the radio on.
ÌTurn the top panel’s CH selec-
tor knob to choose the desired
operating channel.
ÌRotate the VOL/PWR knob to
set the volume level. If no sig-
nal is present, press and hold
in the MONITOR key (the
lower button on the left side)
for more than 1 seconds; back-
ground noise will now be heard, and you may use this
to set the VOL/PWR knob for the desired audio level.
ÌPress and hold in the MONI-
TOR key for more than 1 sec-
onds (or press the MONITOR
key twice) to quiet the noise
and resume normal (quiet)
monitoring.
ÌTo transmit, press and hold in
the PTT switch. Speak into the
microphone area of the front
panel grille (lower left-hand
corner) in a normal voice level.
To return to the Receive mode,
release the PTT switch.
ÌIf a Speaker/Microphone is available, remove the plas-
tic cap and its two mounting screws from the right side
of the transceiver, then insert the plug from the Speaker/
Microphone into the MIC/SP jack; secure the plug us-
ing the screws supplied with the Speaker/Microphone.
Hold the speaker grille up next to your ear while re-
ceiving. To transmit, press the PTT switch on the
Speaker/Microphone, just as you would on the main
transceiver’s body.
Note:Save the original plastic cap and its mounting
screws. They should be re-installed when not us-
ing the Speaker/Microphone.
Operation
Key Functions
The VX-180 provides programmable [A], [B], and [C]
function keys, and both the VX-160 and VX-180 provide
programmable MONITOR keys. These “Soft” keys func-
tions can be customized (set to other functions), via pro-
gramming by your VERTEX STANDARD dealer, to meet
your communications/network requirements. Some fea-
tures may require the purchase and installation of optional
internal accessories. The possible Soft key programming
features are illustrated at the right, and their functions are
explained in the next chapter. For further details, contact
your VERTEX STANDARD dealer.
For future reference, check the box next to each function
that has been assigned to the Soft key on your particular
radio, and keep it handy.
Function Soft Key
[A] [B] [C]MONITOR key
None
Monitor
Low Power
Lock*
Lamp*
Channel Up*
Channel Down*
Scan
Follow-me Scan
Dual Watch
Talk Around
Add/Del*
Call/Reset
Speed Dial
TX Save Off

4
Operating Manual Reprint
Description of Operating Functions
Monitor
Press the assigned Soft key momentarily to override (dis-
able) the Tone squelch.
Background noise or incoming signals will now be heard
whether or not a matching tone is present on the signal).
Press and hold in the assigned Soft key for more than 1
seconds to override both the Noise and Tone squelch. Again
press and hold in the assigned Soft key for more than 1
seconds (or press the assigned Soft key twice) to resume
normal (quiet) Noise and Tone squelch action.
Low Power
Press the assigned Soft key to set the radio's transmitter
to the “Low Power” mode, thus extending battery life.
Press the assigned Soft key again to return to “High
Power” operation when in difficult terrain.
Lock
Press the assigned Soft key to lock the Soft keys (except
Lock and Monitor key); thus, the [A], [B], [C], and MONI-
TOR keys can be disabled to prevent radio settings from
being disturbed.
Lamp
Press the assigned Soft key to illuminate the LCD for
five seconds.
Channel Up
Press the assigned Soft key to switch to a higher operat-
ing channel number.
Channel Down
Press the assigned Soft key to switch to a lower operating
channel number.
Scan
The Scanning feature is used to monitor multiple chan-
nels programmed into the transceiver. While scanning, the
radio will check each channel for the presence of a signal,
and will stop on a channel if a signal is present.
ÌTo activate scanning:
Press the assigned Soft key.
The scanner will search the channels, looking for ac-
tive ones; it will pause each time it finds a channel on
which someone is speaking.
ÌTo stop scanning:
Press the assigned Soft key.
Operation will revert to the channel to which the CH
knob is set.
Follow-Me Scan
“Follow-Me” Scan feature checks a User-assigned Prior-
ity Channel regularly as you scan the other channels. Thus,
if only Channels 1, 3, and 5 (of the 8 available channels)
are designated for “Scanning,” the user may nonetheless
assign Channel as the “User-assigned” Priority Channel
via the “Follow-Me” feature.
Press the assigned Soft key to activate “Follow-Me” scan-
ning, then turn the CH selector knob to the channel which
you want to designate as the “User-Assigned Priority Chan-
nel”. When the scanner stops on an “active” channel, the
User-assigned Priority Channel will automatically be
checked every few seconds.
Dual Watch
The Dual Watch feature is similar to the Scan feature, ex-
cept that only two channels are monitored: the current
operating channel, and the “Priority” channel.
ÌTo activate Dual Watch:
Press the assigned Soft key.
The scanner will search the two channels; it will pause
each time it finds a channel on which someone is speak-
ing.
ÌTo stop Dual Watch:
Press the assigned Soft key.
Operation will revert to the channel to which the CH
knob is set.
Talk Around
Press the assigned Soft to activate the Talk Around fea-
ture when you are operating on duplex channel systems
(separate receive and transmit frequencies, utilizing a “re-
peater” station). The Talk Around feature allows you to
bypass the repeater station and talk directly to a station
that is nearby. This feature has no effect when you are
operating on “Simplex” channels, where the receive and
transmit frequencies are already the same.
Note that your dealer may have made provision for “Talk
Around” channels by programming “repeater” and “Talk
Around” frequencies on two adjacent channels. If so, the
key may be used for one of the other Pre-Programmed
Functions.
Add/Del
The Add/Del feature allows the user to arrange a custom
Scan.
Press the assigned Soft key to delete/restore the current
channel to/from your scanning list.
When you delete a current channel, “SKIP” will appear
on the LCD after pressing the Soft key. When you re-
store a current channel, “SKIP” indicator on the LCD will
turn off.

5
Accessories & Options
FNB-64 7.2 V 700 mAh Ni-Cd Battery
FNB-V57 7.2 V 1100 mAh Ni-Cd Battery
FBA-25 Alkaline Battery Case
NC-77B 120 VAC Overnight Desktop Charger
NC-77C 230-240 VAC Overnight Desktop Charger
VAC-800 Desktop Rapid Charger
VAC-6800 6-unit Multi Charger
MH-45B4B Speaker/Microphone
MH-37A4B Earpiece Microphone
VC-25 VOX Headset
VCM-1 Mobile Mounting Bracket (for VAC-800)
LCC-160/S Leather Case (for VX-160)
LCC-180/S Leather Case (for VX-180)
CT-42 PC Programming Cable
CT-27 Radio to Radio Programming Cable
CE44 Programming Software
Operating Manual Reprint
Description of Operating Functions
Call/Reset
When the 2-tone selective calling unit is installed, press
the assigned Soft key to silence the receiver and reset for
another call, when a communication is finished.
Speed Dial
Your Dealer may have pre-programmed Auto-Dial tele-
phone number memories into your radio.
To dial a number, just press the Dealer-assigned Soft key
for Speed Dialing. The DTMF tones sent during the dial-
ing sequence will be heard in the speaker.
TX Save Off
Press the assigned Soft key to disable the Transmit Bat-
tery Saver, if you are operating in a location where high
power is almost always needed.
The Transmit Battery Saver helps extend battery life by
reducing transmit power when a very strong signal from
an apparently nearby station is being received. Under some
circumstances, though, your hand-held radio may not be
heard well at the other end of the communication path,
and high power may be necessary at all times.

6
Cloning
The VX-160/-180 includes a convenient Cloning feature, which allows the programming data from one transceiver to
be transferred to another VX-160/-180. Here is the procedure for Cloning one radio's data to another.
Optional Cloning Cable CT-27
1. Turn both transceivers off.
2. Remove the plastic cap and its two mounting screws
from the MIC/SP jack on the right side of the trans-
ceiver. Do this for both transceivers.
3. Connect the optional CT-27 cloning cable between the
MIC/SP jacks of the two transceivers.
4. Press and hold in the PTT and MONITOR switches
(just below the PTT switch) while turning the trans-
ceiver on. Do this for both transceivers (the order of
the switch-on does not matter). “CLONE” will appear
on the displays (for the VX-180) of both transceivers
when Clone mode is successfully activated in this step;
in the case of the VX-160, no change will be observed
at this point.
5. On the Destination transceiver, press the MONITOR
switch. “LOADING” will appear on the LCD (for VX-
180; for VX-160, the TX/BUSY indicator on the top
of the radio will glow Green).
6. Press the PTT switch on the source transceiver; “SEND-
ING” will appear on the Source transceiver (for VX-
180; for VX-160, the TX/BUSY indicator on the top
of the radio will glow Red), and the data will be trans-
ferred.
7. If there is a problem during the cloning process, “ER-
ROR” will appear on the LCD (for VX-180; for VX-
160, the TX/BUSY indicator on the top of the radio
will blink Red); check your cable connections and bat-
tery voltage, and try again.
8. If the data transfer is successful, the display will return
to “CLONE” (for VX-180; for VX-160, the TX/BUSY
indicator on the top of the radio will turn off). Turn
both transceivers off and disconnect the CT-27 cable.
You can then turn the transceivers back on, and begin
normal operation.
9. Replace the plastic cap and its two mounting screws.

7
Specifications
GENERAL Specifications
Frequency Range (MHz): 400 - 430 (AS1)
450 - 485 (D)
485 - 512 (F)
Number of Channels: 16 channels
Channel Spacing: 12.5 / 25 kHz
PLL Steps 5 / 6.25 kHz
Power Supply voltage: 7.5 VDC ± 20%
Operating Temperature Range: –22°F to +140°F (–30°C to +60°C)
Frequency Stability: ±2.5 ppm
Dimensions (WHD): 2.3" (W) x 4.7" (H) x 1.2" (D) (58 x 120 x 31 mm)
Weight (approx.): 0.81 lb. (365 g) w/FNB-64
RECEIVER Specifications (Measurements made per EIA standard TIA/EIA-603)
Sensitivity
EIA 12 dB SINAD : 0.25 µV
20 dB Quieting : 0.35 µV
Adjacent channel selectivity: 65 dB (25 kHz) / 60 dB (12.5 kHz)
Intermodulation: 65 dB
Spurious and Image Rejection: 65 dB
Hum & Noise 45 dB
Audio output: 500 mW @4 Ohms, 5% THD
TRANSMITTER Specifications (Measurements made per EIA standard TIA/EIA-603)
Power output: 5.0 / 1.0 W
Modulation: 16K0F3E, 11K0F3E
Conducted Spurious Emissions: 60 dB Below Carrier
FM Hum & Noise: 40 dB (25 kHz) / 35 dB (12.5 kHz)
Audio distortion (@ 1 kHz): < 5 %
Measurements per EIA standards unless noted above. Specifications subject to change without notice or obligation.

8
Exploded View & Miscellaneous Parts
FRONT CASE ASSY (VX-180)
RA0295900 (Lot. 1~)
RA029590A (Lot. 18~)
RA029590B (Lot. 19~)
RA029590C (Lot. 37~)
RA029590D (Lot. 60~)
FRONT CASE ASSY (VX-160)
RA0296000 (Lot. 1~)
RA029600A (Lot. 19~)
RA029600B (Lot. 37~)
RA029600C (Lot. 60~)
RA0294800 (VX-180)
INTER CONNECTOR
RUBBER PACKING
RA0294300 (Lot. 1~)
RA029430A (Lot. 7~)
RA0293900
RUBBER KNOB
RA0123500
LATCH NAIL B
RA0173500
CAP
MAIN Unit
REAR CASE ASSY
(w/SMA CONNECTOR, TERMINAL PLATE (-),
PAN HEAD SCREW M2X3NI)
RA0293100 (Lot. 1~)
RA029310A (Lot. 3~)
RA029310B (Lot. 11~)
RA029310C (Lot. 22~)
TERMINAL PLATE (-)
LIGHT GUIDE (VX-180)
RA0294500 (Lot. 1~)
RA029450A (Lot. 10~)
RA0351700
TERMINAL PLATE (+)
TERMINAL HOLDER
RA010340A (Lot. 1~)
RA010340B (Lot. 36~)













R6147510
RING NUT (x 2 pcs)
RA0296100
VOLUME KNOB
KNOB (CH)
RA0296200 (Lot. 1~)
RA029620A (Lot. 3~)
RA0210900
WINDOW
G6090139 (VX-180)
LCD
RA0110200
HOLDER RUBBER

REF. VXSTD P/N Description Qty.
U44104002 TAPTITE SCREW M2X4NI 10
U44104002 TAPTITE SCREW M2X4NI 2
(VX-180U)
U20206007 BINDING HEAD SCREW M2.6X6B 2
U24110002 TAPTITE SCREW M2X10NI 2
U02206007 SEMS SCREW SM2.6X6B 2
U00103002 PAN HEAD SCREW M2X3NI 1
RA0210600
RUBBER PACKING (x 2 pcs)
RA0294200
PTT KNOB
RA0294400 (VX-180)
LCD HOLDER
RA0334900A (VX-180)
REFLECTOR SHEET
M4090151 (Lot. 1~)
M4090151A (Lot. 10~)
SPEAKER



CP7054001
BELT CLIP ASSY
CAUTION

Q9000779
Ni-Cd BATTERY PACK FNB-64

9
Block Diagram

10
Note:

11
Circuit Description
Receive Signal Path
Incoming RF from the antenna jack is delivered to the
RF Unit and passes through a low-pass filter consisting of
coils L1003, L1006, and L1007, capacitors C1002, C1007,
C1013, C1017, C1022, C1025, C1029, and C1169, and
antenna switching diode D1007 (RLS135).
Signals within the frequency range of the transceiver
enter a varactor-tuned band-pass filter consisting of coils
L1014 and L1015, capacitors C1057, C1058, C1064,
C1071, and C1073, and diodes D1012 (HVC355B),
D1013 (HVC355B), D1016 (HVC355B), and D1017
(HVC355B), then are amplified by Q1015 (2SC5006)
and enter a varactor-tuned band-pass filter consisting of
coils L1021 and L1024, capacitors C1084, C1086, C1095,
C1097, and C1248, and diodes D1026 (HVC355B) and
D1027 (HVC355B), before first mixing by first mixer
Q1025 (SGM2016AM).
Buffered output from the VCO is amplified by Q1009
(2SC5005) to provide a pure first local signal between
405.75 and 440.75 MHz for injection to the first mixer
Q1025. The 44.25 MHz first mixer product then passes
through monolithic crystal filter XF1002 (HDF0042, 5.5
kHz BW) to strip away unwanted mixer products, which
is then amplified by Q1032 (2SC4215Y).
The amplified first IF signal is applied to FM IF sub-
system IC Q1036 (TA31136FN), which contains the sec-
ond mixer, second local oscillator, limiter amplifier, noise
amplifier, and RSSI amplifier.
The second local signal is produced from the PLL ref-
erence/second local oscillator of 14.60 MHz crystal X1001.
The 14.60 MHz reference signal is tripled by Q1036, ca-
pacitor C1123, and coil L1005, and the resulting the 43.8
MHz second local signal is then delivered to the mixer
section of Q1036 which produces the 450 kHz second IF
when mixed with the first IF signal.
The second IF then passes through the ceramic filter
CF1001 (ALFYM450F=K on “Wide” channels) or
CF1002 (ALFYM450G=K on “Narrow” channels) to strip
away all but the desired signal, and is then applied to the
limiter amplifier in Q1036, which removes amplitude
variations in the 450 kHz IF, before detection of the speech
by the ceramic discriminator CD1001 (CDBC450CX24).
Detected audio from Q1036 is applied to the audio high-
pass filter, and then passes via the volume control to the
audio amplifier Q1039 (NJM2070M), which provides up
to 1/2 Watt to the optional headphone jack or a 4-ohm
loudspeaker.
Squelch Control
The squelch circuitry consists of a noise amplifier and
band-pass filter within Q1036, and noise detector D1030
(1SS355).
When no carrier is received, noise at the output of the
detector stage in Q1036 is amplified and band-pass fil-
tered by the noise amplifier section of Q1036 and the net-
work between pins 7 and 8, and then is rectified by D1030.
The resulting DC squelch control voltage is passed to
pin 37 of the microprocessor Q1014 (M37516E6HP). If
no carrier is received, this signal causes pin 24 of Q1014
to go high and pin 20 to go high. Pin 24 signals Q1056
(RT1P441U) to disable the supply voltage to the audio
amplifier Q1039, while pin 20 holds the green (Busy) half
of the LED off, when pin 24 is high and pin 20 is high.
Thus, the microprocessor blocks output from the au-
dio amplifier, and silences the receiver, while no signal is
being received (and during transmission, as well).
When a carrier appears at the discriminator, noise is
removed from the output, causing pin 37 of Q1014 to go
low and the microprocessor to activate the “Busy” LED
via Q1014.
The microprocessor then checks for CTCSS or CDCSS
code squelch information, if enabled. If not transmitting
and CTCSS or CDCSS is not activated, or if the received
tone or code matches that programmed, audio is allowed
to pass through the audio amplifier Q1039 (NJM2070M)
to the loudspeaker by the enabling of the supply voltage
to it via Q1037.
Transmit Signal Path
Speech input from the microphone is amplified by
Q1017 (NJM2902V), after pre-emphasis by C1059 and
R1045, the audio is amplified in another section of Q1017.
The processed audio may then be mixed with a CTCSS
tone generated by Q1014 (M37516E6HP) for frequency
modulation of the PLL carrier (up to ±5 kHz from the
unmodulated carrier) at the transmitting frequency.
If a CDCSS code is enabled for transmission, the code
is generated by microprocessor Q1014 (M37516E6HP)
and delivered to D1004 (HVC350B) for CDCSS modu-
lating.
The modulated signal from the VCO Q1005 (2SK508-
K52) is buffered by Q1008 (2SC5005). The low-level
transmit signal then passes through the T/R switching di-
ode D1014 (DAN235E) to the amplifier Q1009
(2SC5005), driver amplifier Q1012 (2SC3357) and
Q1016 (2SK2973), then the amplified transmit signal is
applied to the final amplifier Q1021 (2SK2974), which
delivers up to 5 watts output power.
The transmit signal then passes through the antenna
switch D1007 (RLS135) and is low-pass filtered, to sup-
press harmonic spurious radiation before delivery to the
antenna.

12
Circuit Description
Automatic Transmit Power Control
Current from the final amplifier is sampled by R1110,
R1124 and R1132, and is rectified by Q1033 (IMZ2A).
The resulting DC is fed back through Q1027 (FMW1) to
the drive amplifier Q1016 and final amplifier Q1021, for
control of the power output.
The microprocessor selects “High” or “Low” power
levels.
Transmit Inhibit
When the transmit PLL is unlocked, pin 14 of PLL
chip Q1004 goes to a logic “Low”, and unlock detector
Q1054 (2SA1586Y) goes to a logic “High”. The result-
ing DC unlock control voltage is passed to pin 14 of the
microprocessor Q1014. While the transmit PLL is un-
locked, pin 22 of Q1014 remains high, which then turns
off Q1031 (CPH6102) and the Automatic Power Con-
troller Q1027 (FMW1) to disable the supply voltage to
the drive amplifiers Q1012/Q1016 and final amplifier
Q1021, thereby disabling the transmitter.
Spurious Suppression
Generation of spurious products by the transmitter is
minimized by the fundamental carrier frequency being
equal to final transmitting frequency, modulated directly
in the transmit VCO. Additional harmonic suppression is
provided by a low-pass filter consisting of coils L1003,
L1006 and L1007 plus capacitors C1002, C1007, C1013,
C1017, C1022, C1029, C1169 and C1196, resulting in
more than 60 dB of harmonic suppression prior to deliv-
ery of the RF signal to the antenna.
PLL Frequency Synthesizer
The PLL circuitry on the Main Unit consists of VCO
Q1005 (2SK508-K52), VCO buffer Q1008 (2SC5005),
and PLL subsystem IC Q1004 (MB15A02PFV1), which
contains a reference divider, serial-to-parallel data latch,
programmable divider, phase comparator and charge pump.
Frequency stability is maintained by temperature com-
pensating thermistor TH1001. The output from TH1001
is applied to pin 39 of Q1014. Q1014 output thermal data
to D/A converter Q1052 (M62364FP) which produces a
DC voltage corresponding to the thermal data. The result-
ing DC voltage is applied to varactor diode D1004
(HVC350B) to stabilize the 14.60 MHz Reference Fre-
quency.
While receiving, VCO Q1005 oscillates between
405.75 and 440.75 MHz according to the transceiver ver-
sion and the programmed receiving frequency. The VCO
output is buffered by Q1008, then applied to the prescaler
section of Q1004. There the VCO signal is divided by 64
or 65, according to a control signal from the data latch
section of Q1004, before being sent to the programmable
divider section of Q1004.
The data latch section of Q1004 also receives serial
dividing data from the microprocessor Q1014, which
causes the pre-divided VCO signal to be further divided
in the programmable divider section, depending upon the
desired receive frequency, so as to produce a 5 kHz or
6.25 kHz derivative of the current VCO frequency.
Meanwhile, the reference divider section of Q1005
divides the 14.60 MHz crystal reference from the refer-
ence oscillator Q1022, by 2920 (or 2336) to produce the 5
kHz (or 6.25 kHz) loop references (respectively).
The 5 kHz (or 6.25 kHz) signal from the programmable
divider (derived from the VCO) and that derived from the
reference oscillator are applied to the phase detector sec-
tion of Q1004, which produces a pulsed output with pulse
duration depending on the phase difference between the
input signals.
This pulse train is filtered to DC and returned to
varactors D1001 (HVC355B) and D1002 (HVC355B).
Changes in the level of the DC voltage are applied to the
varactors, affecting the reference in the tank circuit of the
VCO according to the phase difference between the sig-
nals derived from the VCO and the crystal reference os-
cillator.
The VCO is thus phase-locked to the crystal reference
oscillator. The output of the VCO Q1005, after buffering
by Q1008, is applied to the first mixer as described previ-
ously.
For transmission, the VCO Q1005 oscillates between
450 and 485 MHz according to the model version and
programmed transmit frequency. The remainder of the PLL
circuitry is shared with the receiver. However, the divid-
ing data from the microprocessor is such that the VCO
frequency is at the actual transmit frequency (rather than
offset for IFs, as in the receiving case). Also, the VCO is
modulated by the speech audio applied to D1005
(HVC350B), as described previously.
Receive and transmit buses select which VCO is made
active, using Q1002 (RT1N441U).
Miscellaneous Circuits
Push-To-Talk Transmit Activation
The PTT switch on the microphone is connected to pin
48 of microprocessor Q1014, so that when the PTT switch
is closed, pin 23 of Q1014 goes low. This signal disables
the receiver by disabling the 5 V supply bus at Q1035
(DTB123EK) to the front-end, FM IF subsystem IC
Q1036 and the receiver VCO circuitry.
At the same time, Q1026 (FMW1) and Q1031
(CPH6102) activate the transmit 5V supply line to en-
able the transmitter.

13
Alignment
Introduction
The VX-160/-180 has been aligned at the factory for
the specified performance across the entire frequency range
specified. Realignment should therefore not be necessary
except in the event of a component failure. All component
replacement and service should be performed only by an
authorized Vertex Standard representative, or the warranty
policy may be voided.
The following procedures cover the sometimes critical
and tedious adjustments that are not normally required once
the transceiver has left the factory. However, if damage
occurs and some parts are replaced, realignment may be
required. If a sudden problem occurs during normal op-
eration, it is likely due to component failure; realignment
should not be done until after the faulty component has
been replaced.
We recommend that servicing be performed only by
authorized Vertex Standard service technicians who are
experienced with the circuitry and fully equipped for re-
pair and alignment. Therefore, if a fault is suspected, con-
tact the dealer from whom the transceiver was purchased
for instructions regarding repair. Authorized Vertex Stan-
dard service technicians realign all circuits and make com-
plete performance checks to ensure compliance with fac-
tory specifications after replacing any faulty components.
Those who do undertake any of the following alignments
are cautioned to proceed at their own risk. Problems caused
by unauthorized attempts at realignment are not covered
by the warranty policy. Also, Vertex Standard must re-
serve the right to change circuits and alignment proce-
dures in the interest of improved performance, without
notifying owners. Under no circumstances should any
alignment be attempted unless the normal function and
operation of the transceiver are clearly understood, the
cause of the malfunction has been clearly pinpointed and
any faulty components replaced, and the need for realign-
ment determined to be absolutely necessary. The follow-
ing test equipment (and thorough familiarity with its cor-
rect use) is necessary for complete realignment. Correc-
tion of problems caused by misalignment resulting from
use of improper test equipment is not covered under the
warranty policy. While most steps do not require all of the
equipment listed, the interactions of some adjustments may
require that more complex adjustments be performed af-
terwards. Do not attempt to perform only a single step
unless it is clearly isolated electrically from all other steps.
Have all test equipment ready before beginning, and fol-
low all of the steps in a section in the order presented.
Required Test Equipment
ÌAvionics Radio Tester with calibrated output level at 1
GHz
ÌIn-line Wattmeter with 5% accuracy at 1 GHz
Ì50-ohm, 10-W RF Dummy Load
ÌRegulated DC Power Supply (standard 7.5V DC, 2A)
ÌFrequency Counter: ±0.2 ppm accuracy at 1 GHz
ÌAF Signal Generator
ÌAC Voltmeter
ÌDC Voltmeter
ÌUHF Sampling Coupler
ÌIBM PC/compatible Computer with Microsoft DOS
v3.0 or later operating system
ÌVertex Standard CT-42 Connection Cable and CE44
Alignment program
Alignment Preparation & Precautions
A 50-ohm RF Dummy load and in-line wattmeter must
be connected to the main antenna jack in all procedures
that call for transmission, except where specified other-
wise. Correct alignment is not possible with an antenna.
After completing one step, read the following step to
determine whether the same test equipment will be re-
quired. If not, remove the test equipment (except dummy
load and wattmeter, if connected) before proceeding.
Correct alignment requires that the ambient tempera-
ture be the same as that of the transceiver and test equip-
ment, and that this temperature be held constant between
20° and 30°C (68°~ 86°F). When the transceiver is brought
into the shop from hot or cold air, it should be allowed
time to come to room temperature before alignment.
Whenever possible, alignments should be made with
oscillator shields and circuit boards firmly affixed in place.
Also, the test equipment must be thoroughly warmed up
before beginning.
Note:Signal levels in dB referred to in this procedure are
based on 0 dBµ = 0.5 µV (closed circuit).
Important Note
When connecting the CT-42 plug into the MIC/SP
jack of the VX-160/-180, you must remove the plas-
tic cap and its mounting screws prior to programming.
Please remember to re-attach the cap and screws when
the programming is complete.

14
Alignment
The transceiver must be programmed for use in the
intended system before alignment is attempted. The RF
parameters are loaded from the file during the alignment
process.
In order to facilitate alignment over the complete op-
erating rang of the equipment, it is recommended that the
channel data in the transceiver be preset as per the chart
below.
Channels Frequency (MHz)
Ver. AS1 Ver. D Ver. F
Low Band Edge 400.000 450.000 485.000
(Channel 1)
Band Center 415.000 467.500 498.500
(Channel 2)
High Band Edge 430.000 485.000 512.000
(Channel 3)
Tone-Frequency (Hz) / DCS-code
Channel Ver. AS1 Ver. D Ver. F
CTCSS DCS CTCSS DCS CTCSS DCS
Low Band Edge ––––––
(Channel 1)
Band Center 151.4 – 151.4 – 151.4 –
(Channel 2)
High Band Edge – 627 – 627 – 627
(Channel 3)
Set up the test equipment as shown below for trans-
ceiver alignment, and apply 7.5V DC power to the trans-
ceiver.
The alignment tool outline
Installation of the Alignment tool
The “alignment mode” is a software-based protocol,
accessed by an “Alignment Mode” command from the
computer while switching the transceiver on.It is oper-
ated by the alignment tool automatically. During use of
the alignment mode, normal operation is suspended. The
alignment tool program provides all needed operation ca-
pability.
The alignment tool consists of an executable file
“CE44.exe” and an accmpanying configuration file
“CE44.cfg” which should be loaded per standard DOS
procedures. Create a suitable directory, then copy these
foles from the distribution diskette into the new directory.
For example, if copying the file from Drive A, use the
following DOS command sequence:
c:\ mkdir align [enter]
c:\ cd align [enter]
c:\ align\ copy a:ce44.*
No further installation steps are required. If you wish
to utilize a different name for the alignment directory, it
will not matter to the executable file.
Booting the Alignment Tool
Change to the “align” directory (or the directory name
you utilized in the previous section). Now type on the com-
mand line: ce44 to boot the alignment tool.
The introductory screen will appear, and you may press
any key to enter the main screen.
Entering Alignment Mode
To enter the alignment mode, turn the transceiver off,
Select “Radio” then “Adjust” parameter. Now, turn the
transceiver back on. When the command has been suc-
cessful, a message on the computer screen will confirm
that the transceiver is now in the “Alignment” mode.
Alignment Sequence
Although the data displayed on the computer's screen
during alignment is temporary data, it is important you
follow the basic alignment sequence precisely, so that the
displayed data and the data loaded into the transceiver are
identical.
Basic Alignment Sequence
1. Enter the alignment mode
2. Upload data from transceiver
3. Align data
4. Download data to transceiver
Inline Wattmeter
Deviation Meter
Frequency
Counter
RF Sampling
Coupler
RF Signal
Generator
Transceiver
Power Supply
7.5V DC
CT-42 connection
Cable
PC
MIC/EAR
COM port

15
TP03 L1004
PLL VCV (Varactor Control Voltage)
ÌConnect the DC voltmeter between TP3 on the Main
Unit and ground.
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 3 (high band edge), and ad-
just L1004 on the Main Unit for 3.8 V ± 0.1 V (for
Ver. D), 3.9 V ± 0.1 V (for Ver. AS1) or 3.7 V ± 0.1 V
(for Ver. CS) on the DC voltmeter.
ÌConfirm the high-end VCV is 3.4 V ~3.9 V while re-
ceiving.
ÌConfirm the high-end VCV is 2.5 V ~ 3.7 V while trans-
mitting.
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 1 (low band edge), and con-
firm the low-end VCV is more than 0.75 V (Ver. D and
CS) or 1.3 V (Ver. CS1) while receiving.
ÌConfirm the low-end VCV is more than 1.3 V (Ver. D),
1.0 V (Ver. CS) or 1.4 V (Ver. CS1) while transmitting.
Transmitter Output Power
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 2 (band center).
ÌOpen the “Adjust” window on the CE44 program, then
select the “RF Power (High)” or “RF Power (Low)”
parameter.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to enable programming of this
parameter; use the []or []arrow keys so that the
power meter reading is 5.0 W (± 0.1 W) (for “RF Power
High”) or 1.0 W (± 0.1 W) (for “RF Power Low”).
Confirm that the current consumption is 2.2 A or lower
(for “RF Power High”) or 1.0 A or lower (for “RF Power
Low”).
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to lock in the new data.
MIC Sensitivity
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 2 (band center).
ÌInject a 1 kHz tone at –37 dBm to the MIC jack.
SP
CLONE GND
IN
ÌOpen the “Adjust” window on CE44, then select the
“MIC Sensitivity” parameter.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to enable programming of this
parameter; use the []or []arrow keys so that the
deviation meter reading is ±3.0 kHz (±0.1 kHz) (for 25
kHz steps) deviation.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to lock in the new data.
Alignment

16
Alignment
MAX Deviation
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 2 (band center).
ÌInject a 1 kHz tone at –17 dBm to the MIC jack.
ÌOpen the “Adjust” window on CE44, then select the
“MAX Deviation” parameter.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to enable programming of this
parameter; use the []or []arrow keys so that the
deviation meter reading is ±4.2 kHz (±0.1 kHz) (for 25
kHz steps, Ver. D and AS1), ±4.3 kHz (±0.1 kHz) (for
25 kHz steps, Ver. CS) or ±2.1 kHz (±0.1 kHz) (for
12.5 kHz steps) deviation.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to lock in the new data.
CTCSS Deviation
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 2 (band center).
ÌOpen the “Adjust” window on CE44, then select the
“CTCSS Deviation” parameter.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to enable programming of this
parameter; use the []or []arrow keys so that the
deviation meter reading is ±0.8 kHz (±0.1 kHz) (for 25
kHz steps) or ±0.5 kHz (±0.1 kHz) (for 12.5 kHz steps)
deviation.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to lock in the new data.
DCS Deviation
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 3 (high band edge).
ÌOpen the “Adjust” window on CE44, then select the
“DCS Deviation” parameter.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to enable programming of this
parameter; use the []or []arrow keys so that the
deviation meter reading is ±0.8 kHz (±0.1 kHz) (for 25
kHz steps) or ±0.5 kHz (±0.1 kHz) (for 12.5 kHz steps)
deviation.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to lock in the new data.
RF Frequency
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 2 (band center).
ÌOpen the “Adjust” window on CE44, then select the
“RF Frequency” parameter.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to enable programming of this
parameter; use the []or []arrow keys so that the
frequency counter displays the band center frequency
(±100 Hz) for the version being aligned.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to lock in the new data.
Sensitivity
ÌSet the transceiver to CH 3 (high band edge).
ÌTune the RF signal generator to the same frequency as
the transceiver’s, then set the generator output level to
40 dBµ with ±3.0 kHz deviation @ 1 kHz tone modu-
lation.
ÌOpen the “Adjust” window on CE44, then select the
“RX Tune” parameter.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to enable programming of this
parameter. Use the []or []arrow keys to tune for
best sensitivity; ultimately, the radio should be aligned
so that the RF signal generator output level is –6 dBµ
EMF (0.25 µV) or less for 12 dB SINAD.
ÌPress the [ENTER]key to lock in the new data.

17
MAIN Unit (Lot. 1~)
Circuit Diagram
3.23V
(3.24V)
0V
0.73V
(0.73V)
0.8V
(0.8V) 3.7V
(3.75V)
1.5V
(1.54V)
2.26V
(0V)
0.05V (4.05V) 0V (4.77V)
0.76V
2.68V
0V
0.02V
(4.24V)
0V
5.01V
(0V)
4.25V (4.26V)
4.92V (4.94V)
5.06V (5.08V)
0V
(2.3V) 0.05V
(0.62V)
0V (0.67V)
7.51V
<7.26V>
{7.43V} 0V
<2.69V>
{0.93V}
7.51V
<7.07V>
{7.41V}
6.95V
<6.53V>
{6.86V}
0.83V
<7.02V>
{1.76V}
0.05V <5.02V> {5.02V}
0.03V
<2.41V>
{0.98V}
0.74V
2.68V
0.3V
<2.49V>
{0.62V}
0.0V
<1.98V>
{0.06V}
0V
<2.63V>
{0.0V}
Wide:0.0V
Narrow:0.0V
Wide:4.98V
Narrow:0.76V
Wide:0.0V
Narrow:0.0V
Wide:4.97V
Narrow:0.0V
Wide:3.13V
Narrow:2.14V
Wide:3.7V
Narrow:1.47V
Wide:3.69V
Narrow:0.76V
Wide:3.13V
Narrow:2.14V
Wide:4.97V
Narrow:1.47V
1.09V
(0.0V)
5.0V
(0.0V) 1.09V
(0.0V)
1.07V
(0.0V)
5.0V
(0.0V)
RX Narrow:1.06V
RX Wide:1.16V
TRX:0.0V
2.44V
(0.0V)
2.46V
(0.0V)
1.60V
(0.0V)
1.62V
(0.0V) 1.61V
(0.0V)
0.0V
(0.0V)
1.6V
(0.0V)
2.92V
(0.0V)
2.41V
(0.0V)
1.61V
(0.0V)
5.00V
TRX:0.0V
Wide:1.08V
Narrow:1.20V
TX:0.0V
5.0V
(0.78V)
Wide:1.08V
Narrow:1.18V
TX:0.0V
7.5V
LED On:7.5V
4.99V
LED On:4.94V
4.69V
LED On:4.27V
3.36V
LED On:0.11V
0.0V
LED On:2.8V
TRX:0.0V
4.99V
2.94V
4.92V
4.99V
(3.70V)
0.0V
(4.95V)
4.99V
(4.99V)
4.99V
(4.99V)
0.0V
(0.0V)
4.81V
(4.81V)
1.59V
(0.0V)
Wide:1.03V
Narrow:1.05V
TRX:0.0V
RX SQL Open:0.6V
RX SQL Close:0.73V
SQL Open:3.37V
SQL Close:0.02V
SQL Open:7.49V
SQL Close:0.08V
SQL Open:0.59V
SQL Close:4.99V
SQL Open:7.49V
SQL Close:0.0V
SQL Open:0.0V
SQL Close:0.0V
SQL Open:0.0V
SQL Close:7.5V
SQL Open:0.7V
SQL Close:0.0V
SQL Open:6.74V
SQL Close:7.5V
RX Wide:0.0V
RX Narrow:4.87V
(4.87V)
RX Wide:4.96V
RX Narrow:4.25V
(4.26V)
RX Wide:4.99V
RX Narrow:4.88V
(4.88V)
7.49V
<7.23V>
{7.41V}
0.05V
(5.05V)
7.48V
<6.56V>
{6.74V}
0.05V
(5.03V)
4.99V
(4.99V)
4.98V
(4.40V)
5.07V
(5.08V)
5.02V
(0.0V)
7.49V
(7.41V)
0.04V
(5.08V)
4.98V
(0.0V)
6.84V
(6.79V)
4.42V
(4.44V)
5.05V
(5.06V)
4.98V
(4.99V)
4.99V
(4.97V)
4.66V
(4.3V) 7.51V
<7.25V>
{7.44V}
4.98V
(0.0V)
0.0V
(4.94V)
TRX:
0.0V
2.01V
4.98V
(4.99V)
3.6V
(3.6V)
4.99V
(4.99V)
TRX:0.0V
0.0V
(2.26V)
0.0V
(2.25V)
0.0V
(2.27V)
0.0V
(2.23V)
0.0V
(2.28V)
0.0V
(1.65V)
0.0V
(2.27V)
0.0V
(2.21V)
0.0V
(2.26V)
0.0V
(2.23V)
0.0V
0.0V
(2.26V)
0.0V
(5.04V)
Q1036
SQL Close SQL Open TX
1 4.98V 4.98V 0.01V
2 4.72V 4.72V 0.01V
3 3.81V 3.81V -0.15V
4 5.02V 5.02V 0.01V
5 4.65V 4.64V 0.01V
6 4.65V 4.64V 0.01V
7 0.81V 0.81V 0.00V
8 0.66V 0.66V 0.00V
9 1.12V 1.11V 0.00V
10 5.00V 5.00V 0.01V
11 4.14V 4.14V 0.04V
12 0.55V 0.55V 0.00V
13 0.34V 0.34V 0.34V
14 1.67V 1.67V 0.00V
15 0.00V 0.00V 0.00V
16 0.96V 0.97V -0.03V
RX : XX
TX : XX
TX HIGH : <XX>
TX LOW : {XX}

18
Note:

19
MAIN Unit (Lot. 1~)
Side A
Parts Layout
DBACE
1
3
2
F
FMW1 (W1)
(Q1027)
MC2850 (A7)
(D1032)
FA1101F (VX-180)
(D1038, 1041)
RT1N441U (N3)
(Q1041)
2SC4154E (LE)
(Q1024, 1037
1047, 1058)
2SA1586Y (SY)
(Q1010, 1042
1057)
RT1P441U (P3)
(Q1056)
NJM2902V
(Q1017, 1030)
CPH6102 (AB)
(Q1050)
IMZ2 (Z2)
(Q1033)
NJM2070M
(Q1039)
LC75834W
(Q1053)
12-22SURSYGC/S530-A2/TR8
(D1028)
NJM12903R
(Q1045)
DTC124TE (05)
(Q1059)

20
MAIN Unit (Lot. 1~)
Side B
db cf
1
3
2
ae
MC2850 (A7)
(D1015, 1033
1034, 1036)
DAN235E (M)
(D1014)
2SC4154E (LE)
(Q1006, 1051)
2SC5005 (73)
(Q1008, 1009)
2SC5006 (24)
(Q1015)
2SC4215Y (QY)
(Q1032)
SGM2016AM (MA)
(Q1025)
2SA1586Y (SY)
(Q1054)
FMW1 (W1)
(Q1026, 1028)
RT1N441U (N3)
(Q1002, 1034
1044, 1060)
MB15A02PFV1
(Q1004)
2SK508 (K52)
(Q1005)
RT1P441U (P3)
(Q1013, 1020)
M37516E6HP
(Q1014)
2SK2973 (K1)
(Q1016)
2SK2974
(Q1021)
CPH6102 (AB)
(Q1029, 1031)
DTB123EK (F12)
(Q1035)
TA31136FN
(Q1036)
S-80735SN (DZ)
(Q1038)
M62364FP
(Q1052)
2SC3357-T2
(Q1012)
TK11250BMCL
(Q1040)
BR93LC66FV
(Q1011)