Vertex Standard VX-3R User manual

FCC ID: K6620285X20
IC ID: 511B-20285X20
VX-3R Operating Manual
General Description
The VX-3R is a micro-miniature multiband FM transceiver with extensive receive frequency coverage,
providing local-area two-way amateur communications along with unmatched monitoring capability.
The VX-3R’s incredibly small size allows you to take it anywhere - hiking, skiing, or while walking around
town - and its operating flexibility brings the user many avenues of operating enjoyment. Its incredibly tiny
FNB-82LI Lithium-Ion Battery Pack provides up to 1.5 Watts of transmit power on VHF, and 1 Watt on UHF.
Besides 144- and 430-MHz transceive operation, the VX-3R provides receive coverage of the AM (MF)
which provide the internal bar antenna and FM broadcast bands, HF Shortwave Bands, VHF and UHF TV
bands, the VHF AM aircraft band, and a wide range of commercial and public safety frequencies!
Furthermore, the VX-3R provides the internal bar antenna for the good receiving the AM broadcast.
Additional features include an Enhanced Paging and Code Squelch (EPCS), which allows you to page a
particular station and only receive calls from that station, if desired; a security Password feature, which will
allow you to turn on and operate your transceiver only after you enter your Password; a convenient access
key for Vertex Standard’s WIRES™(Wide-Coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System); Emergency
Automatic ID (EAI) function, that will automatically cause your VX-3R to transmit your callsign and engage
your rig’s microphone, even if you are disabled and unable to press the PTT switch; a transmit Time-Out
Timer (TOT); Automatic Power-Off (APO); Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS); Yaesu’s exclusive ARTS™
(Auto-Range Transponder System) which “beeps” the user when you move out of communications range
with another ARTSTM equipped station, plus provision for reduction of the TX deviation in areas of high
channel congestion. And an S-meter squelch circuit allows the owner to set the squelch to open at a
programmable setting of the S-Meter, thus reducing guesswork in setting the squelch threshold.
We appreciate your purchase of the VX-3R, and encourage you to read this manual thoroughly, so as to
learn about the many exciting features of your exciting new Yaesu hand-held transceiver!
Accessories & Options
Supplied Accessories
FNB-82LI 3.7 V, 1000 mAh Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Pack
 NC-85A/B, C, U* 2.5-Hour Charger
 YHA-66 Antenna
 Operating Manual
 Warranty Card
Available Options
 FNB-82LI 3.7 V, 1000 mAh Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Pack
 FBA-37 Dry Cell Battery Case for 3 x “AA” Alkaline Cells
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FCC ID: K6620285X20
IC ID: 511B-20285X20
VX-3R Operating Manual
 NC-85A/B, C, U* 2.5-Hour Charger
 CN-3 BNC-to-SMAAdapter
 CT-27 Cloning Cable
 CT-44 Microphone Adapter
 E-DC-21 DC Cable w/ Cigarette-Lighter Adapter
 MH-34B4B Speaker/Microphone
 MH-37A4B Earpiece/Microphone
 VC-25 VOX Headset
* “A/B” suffix is for use with 100-120 VAC, “C” suffix is for use with 230-240 VAC, and “U” suffix is for use
with 230 VAC.
Availability of accessories may vary. Some accessories are supplied as standard per local requirements,
while others may be unavailable in some regions. Consult your Yaesu dealer for details regarding these
and any newly-available options Connection of any non-Yaesu-approved accessory, should it cause
damage, may void the Limited Warranty on this apparatus.
Control & Connections
ANTENNA Jack
Connect the supplied rubber flex antenna (or another antenna presenting a 50-Ohm impedance) here.
MIC/SP Jack
This four-conductor miniature jack provides connection points for microphone audio, earphone audio, PTT,
and ground.
DIAL Knob
The main tuning Dial is used for setting the operating frequency, and also is used for audio volume level,
menu selections, and other adjustments.
To rotate this Dial knob, pull the knob to unlock the mechanical dial lock, and then rotate the Dial knob.
TX/BUSY Indicator
This indicator glows green when the squelch opens, and turns red during transmit. During “Emergency”
operation (see page ??), this indicator will glow (or flash) white.
PTT (Push To Talk) Switch
Press this switch to transmit, and release it (to receive) after your transmission is completed.
MONI Switch
Pressing this key disables the noise squelching action, allowing you to hear very weak signals near the
background noise level.
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FCC ID: K6620285X20
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VX-3R Operating Manual
POWER Switch
Press and hold this switch in for one second to toggle the transceiver’s power on and off.
KEYPAD
These nine keys select many of most important operating features on the VX-3R. The functions of the keys
are described in detail on the pages to follow.
SPEAKER
The internal speaker is located here.
MIC
The internal microphone is located here.
EAR Jack
This 3-pin miniature jack provides connection points for stereo earphone.
This 3-pin miniature jack allows connection to stereo earphone. When insert the after-market stereo
earphone into this jack, you may enjoy the FM broadcast with a stereo.
EXT DC
This coaxial DC jack allows connection to an external DC power source (2.5 - 7.0V DC). The center pin of
this jack is the Positive (+) connection.
Keypad Functions
Key Primary Function
(Press Key)
Secondary Function
(Press [FW] + Key)
Third Function
(Press and Hold Key)
MODE Switches the operating
mode.
Activates CTCSS or
DCS operation.
Activates the Smart
Search™and Channel
Counter features.
BAND Moves operation to the
next-highest frequency
band.
Activates the “Memory
Bank” feature while in
the Memory Recall
mode.
Moves operation to the
next-lowest frequency
band.
Holding this key after
pressing the [FW] key to
activates the key
lockout feature.
Activates the Scanner
Upward (toward a higher
frequency or a higher
channel number).
TXPO Switches the transmit
power output between
“HI” and “LOW.”
Selects the synthesizer
steps to be used during
VFO operation.
Enters the Set (Menu)
Mode.
V/M Switches frequency
control between the
VFO and Memory
Activates the “Memory
Tune” function while in
the Memory Recall
Activates the Dual Watch
feature.
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FCC ID: K6620285X20
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VX-3R Operating Manual
Systems. mode.
FW Activates the “Alternate”
key function.
Disables the “Alternate”
key function.
Activates the “Memory
Write” mode (for memory
channel storage).
HM/RV Reverses transmit and
receive frequencies
while working through a
repeater.
Switches operation to
the “Home” (favorite
frequency) channel.
Activates the
“Emergency” Function.
See page ??.
% Activates the WIRES™
(Internet Connection)
feature.
Recalls the “Weather
Broadcast” channels
and Short-wave
broadcast station
channels.
Activates the ARTS™
feature.
RADIO Enter the Broadcast
Reception mode.
While in the Broadcast
Reception mode, press
the [BAND] key toggle
the receiving band
between “AM”
broadcast band and
“FM” broadcast band.
Enables the antenna
selection to be used.
Activates the AF Priority
function. See page ??.
VOL N.A. Toggle the DIAL knob
function between the
“Frequency Control”
and “Receiver Audio
Control”.
Rotate the DIAL knob
while holding the VOL key
to adjust the audio volume
level.
Installation of Accessories
Antenna Installation
The supplied antenna provides good results over the entire frequency range of the transceiver. However,
for enhanced base station medium-wave and shortwave reception, you may wish to connect an external
(outside) antenna, as the supplied antenna is very small and cannot be expected to provide high
performance at these frequencies.
To install the supplied antenna, hold the bottom end of the antenna, then screw it onto the mating connector
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VX-3R Operating Manual
on the transceiver until it is snug. Do not over-tighten by use of extreme force.
Notes:
 Never transmit without having an antenna connected.
 When installing the supplied antenna, never hold the upper part of the antenna while screwing it onto
the mating connector on the transceiver.
 If using an external antenna for transmission, ensure that the SWR presented to the transceiver is 1.5:1
or lower, to avoid excessive feedline loss.
Installation of FNB-82LI Battery Pack
The FNB-82LI is a high-performance Lithium-Ion battery providing high capacity in a very compact package.
Under normal use, the FNB-82LI may be used for approximately 300 charge cycles, after which operating
time may be expected to decrease. If you have an old battery pack which is displaying capacity which has
become diminished, you should replace the pack with a new one.
Installation of the battery is easy and quick:
 Slide the Battery Cover Latch to the Unlock position, then slide the Battery Cover toward the bottom to
remove it.
 Install the FNB-82LI into the Battery Compartment.
 Replace the Battery Cover, then slide the Battery Cover Latch into the “Lock” position.
Important Note: There is a small stud in the Battery Compartment of the VX-3R. This stud is a switch for the
battery detection. Please be careful not to break this stud while battery changing.
Battery Charging
If the battery has never been used, or its charge is depleted, it may be charged by connecting the NC-85
Battery Charger, as shown in the illustration, to the EXT DC jack. If only 12 ~ 16 Volt DC power is available,
the optional E-DC-21 DC Adapter (with its cigarette lighter plug) may also be used for charging the battery.
While the battery is being charged, the display will indicate “CHGING” and the TX/BUSY indicator will glow
red. The S-meter will deflect according to the charging status.
When charging is finished, the display will change to indicate “CHGFUL” and the TX/BUSY indicator will
glow green.
The NC-85 is only designed for the charging of the VX-3R’s battery, and is not suitable for other purposes.
Please be advised that the NC-85 may contribute noise to TV and radio reception in the immediate vicinity,
so we do not recommend its use adjacent to such devices.
Important Note: 1) Perform the battery charging where the ambient temperature range is 41 °F to 95 °F
(+5 °C to +35 °C). Charge out of this range could cause damage to the battery pack.
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VX-3R Operating Manual
2) When charge is not finished even if it passes for three hours, appears “CHGERR” in the display and
finishes the charging forcibly. In this case, there is the possibility that battery becomes deterioration. Please
contact your yaesu dealer.
3) If you do not use the VX-3R for a long time, remove the FNB-82LI Lithium-Ion battery pack from the
VX-3R, as battery leakage could cause damage to the VX-3R and FNB-82LI.
4) When a FNB-82LI Lithium-Ion battery pack is not used for a long time, please remove it from the
transceiver. Also, while in storage, the charge will drain slightly over time and the battery should be
recharged 50% each six months.
Installation of FBA-37 Alkaline Battery Case (option)
The optional FBA-37 Battery Case allows operation of the VX-3R using three “AA” size alkaline batteries.
When installing batteries, insert the (–) end first, then press in the (+) end so the battery snaps into place.
Always replace all three batteries at the same time, paying attention to the polarity indicated inside the
case.
The FBA-37 must not be used with rechargeable cells. The FBA-37 does not contain the thermal and
over-current protection circuits (provided in the FNB-82LI Lithium-Ion Battery Pack) required when utilizing
Ni-Cd and Ni-MH cells.
Note that the power output and battery life will be much shorter when using Alkaline AA cells. They should
be considered an emergency backup power source only, for this reason.
The VX-3R is smart, when the FBA-37 Battery Pack is installed to the VX-3R, a charge circuit does not
work even if the external DC power supply is connected to the EXT DC IN Jack.
Important Note: 1) The FBA-37 is designed for use only with AA-type Alkaline cells (LR6).
2) If you do not use the VX-3R for a long time, remove the alkaline batteries from the FBA-37, as battery
leakage could cause damage to the VX-3R and FBA-37.
Battery Life Information
When the battery charge is almost depleted, a “Battery” icon will appear on the display. When the “Battery”
icon appears, it is recommended that you charge the battery soon.
Battery Life (Approx.)Operating Band
FNB-82LI FBA-37
Low Voltage Indicator
144 MHz*1
430 MHz*1
Other Band*2
*1) TX: 6 seconds, RX: 6 seconds, and Squelched: 48 seconds.
*2) Continuous signal reception.
The current battery voltage can be displayed manually on the display,
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VX-3R Operating Manual
Battery capacity may be reduced during extremely cold weather operation. Keeping the radio inside your
parka may help preserve the full charge capacity.
Interface of Packet TNCs
The VX-3R may be used for Packet operation, using the optional CT-91 microphone adapter (available
from your Yaesu dealer) for easy interconnection to commonly-available connectors wired to your TNC. You
may also build your own cable, using a four-conductor miniature phone plug, per the diagram below.
The audio level from the receiver to the TNC may be adjusted by the transceiver’s volume control (rotate
the DIAL knob while press and holding the [VOL] key, do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL
knob), as with voice operation. The input level to the VX-3R from the TNC should be adjusted at the TNC
side; the optimum input voltage is approximately 5 mV at 2000 Ohms.
Be sure to turn the transceiver and TNC off before connecting the cables, so as to prevent voltage spikes
from possibly damaging your transceiver.
When you are operating on Packet, switch the Receive Battery Saver OFF, as the “sleep” cycle may
“collide” with the beginning of an incoming Packet transmission, causing your TNC not to receive the full
data burst. See page ?? for details regarding Battery Saver setup.
Operation
R.F. says: Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the many features of the VX-3R. I
know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I encourage you to read the “Operation” section of this manual as
thoroughly as possible, so you’ll get the most out of this fantastic new transceiver. Now. . .let’s get
operating!
Switching Power On and Off
1. Be sure the Battery Pack is installed, and that the battery is fully charged. Connect the antenna to the
top panelANTENNA jack.
2. Press and hold in the orange POWER switch (on the left side of the transceiver) for one second. Two
beeps will be heard when the switch has been held long enough, and the current DC supply voltage
will indicated on the display for 2 seconds; if you are using the FNB-82LI Battery Pack, the small “Lit”
icon at the top of the display confirms that the Lithium-Ion Battery Pack has been detected. After this
2-second interval, the display will resume its normal indication of the operating frequency.
3. To turn the VX-3R off, press and hold in the orange POWER switch again for one second.
R.F. says: 1) If you don’t hear the two “Beep” tones when the radio comes on, the Beeper may have been
disabled via the Set Mode Item 14: BP SEL. See page ??, which tells you how to reactivate the Beeper.
2) You can change the Opening Message (DC supply voltage indication) to any desired message (up to 6
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VX-3R Operating Manual
characters) via Set Mode Item 57: OPN.MSG; see page ?? for details.
Adjusting the Volume Level
Pull the DIAL knob to unlock the mechanical dial lock, then rotate the DIAL knob while pressing and holding
the [VOL] key to set the desired audio level. Clockwise rotation increases the volume level.
R.F. Says: 1) You may set the audio level by the Speaker Output Level and the Earphone Output Level
individually. The “SP” notation (which means Speaker) appears in the Memory Channel Number display slot
while adjusting the Speaker Output Level. The “HP” notation (which means Headphone) appears in the
Memory Channel Number display slot while adjusting the Earphone Output Level.
2) When press the [F/W] key followed by the [VOL] key, the DIAL knob function change to the Volume Level
selection instead of the frequency control. In this case, the “VOL” notation on the display is blinked. Press
the [F/W] key followed by the [VOL] key again, the DIAL knob function returns to the frequency control.
Squelch Adjustment
The VX-3R’s Squelch system allows you to mute the background noise when no signal is being received.
Not only does the Squelch system make “standby” operation more pleasant, it also significantly reduces
battery current consumption.
The Squelch system may be adjusted independently for the FM and Wide-FM (FM Broadcast) modes.
1. Press the [F/W] key, then press the [MONI] switch on the left side of the radio. This provides a
“Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 78: SQ LVL.
2. Now, rotate the DIAL knob to set the Squelch so that the background noise is just silenced (typically at
a setting of about “1” or “2” for AM/FM, and “2” or “3” for Wide-FM/FM Broadcast/AM Broadcast); this is
point of maximum sensitivity to weak signals.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. When you are satisfied with the Squelch threshold setting, press the PTT switch momentarily to save
the new setting and exit to normal operation.
R.F. Says: 1) The VX-3R can set the squelch threshold level on the AM mode, FM mode, Wide FM mode,
and AM Broadcast individually.
2) A special “S-meter Squelch” feature is provided on the VX-3R. This feature allows you to set the squelch
so that only signals exceeding a certain S-meter level will open the squelch. See page ?? for details.
3) If you’re operating in an area of high RF pollution, you may need to consider “Tone Squelch” operation
using the built-in CTCSS Decoder. This feature will keep your radio quiet until a call is received from a
station sending a carrier which contains a matching (subaudible) CTCSS tone. Or, if your friends have
radios equipped with DCS (Digital Coded Squelch) like your VX-3R has, try using that mode for silent
monitoring of busy channels.
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VX-3R Operating Manual
Selecting the Operating Band
The VX-3R covers an incredibly wide frequency range, over which a number of different operating modes
are used. Therefore, the VX-3R’s frequency coverage has been divided into different operating bands, each
of which has its own pre-set channel steps and operating modes. You can change the channel steps and
operating modes later, if you like (see page ??).
Operating Bands
BAND BAND NUMBER FREQUENCY RANGE
SW Band 1 1.8 - 30 MHz
50 MHz Ham Band 2 30 - 59 MHz
Air Band 3 108 - 137 MHz
144 MHz Ham Band 4 137 - 174 MHz
VHF-TV Band 5 174 - 222 MHz
Information Band 1 6 222 - 420 MHz
430 MHz Ham Band 7 420 - 470 MHz
UHF-TV Band 8 470 - 800 MHz
Information Band 2 9 803 - 999 MHz
To Change Operating Bands:
1. Press the [BAND] key repetitively. You will see the LCD indication move toward a higher frequency
band each time you press the [BAND] key.
Indicates a Band Number according with the receiving frequency in the Memory Channel Number
Display Slot of the display.
2. If you wish to move the operating band selection downward (toward lower frequencies), press the
[F/W] key first, then press the [BAND] key.
3. Once you have selected the desired band, you may initiate manual tuning (or scanning) per the
discussion in the next chapter.
R.F. Says: 1) The VX-3R has an AM broadcasting band and an FM broadcast band with these bands and
can receive it independently. See page ?? for details.
2) You may skip (omit) the several bands from the band selection loop for fast recalling the operating band,
if you desired. See page ?? for details.
Frequency Navigation
The VX-3R will initially be operating in the “VFO” mode, a channelized system which allows free tuning
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VX-3R Operating Manual
throughout the currently-selected operating band.
Two basic frequency navigation methods are available on the VX-3R:
1) Tuning Dial
Rotation of the DIAL knob allows tuning in the pre-programmed steps established for the current operating
band. Clockwise rotation of the DIAL knob causes the VX-3R to be tuned toward a higher frequency, while
counter-clockwise rotation will lower the operating frequency.
If you press the [F/W] key momentarily, then rotate the DIAL knob, frequency steps of 1 MHz will be
selected. This feature is extremely useful for making rapid frequency excursions over the wide tuning range
of the VX-3R.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
2) Scanning
From the VFO mode, press and hold in the [BAND] key for one second, and rotate the DIAL knob while
holding in the [BAND] key to select the bandwidth for the VFO scanner, then release the [BAND] key to
begin scanning toward a higher frequency. The scanner will stop when it receives a signal strong enough to
break through the Squelch threshold. The VX-3R will then hold on that frequency according to the setting of
the “RESUME” mode (Set Mode Item 75: SCN.RSM). See page ?? for details regarding Scan Operation.
If you wish to reverse the direction of the scan (i.e. toward a lower frequency, instead of a higher frequency),
just rotate the DIAL knob one click in the counter-clockwise direction while the VX-3R is scanning. The
scanning direction will be reversed. To revert to scanning toward a higher frequency once more, rotate the
DIAL knob one click clockwise.
Press the PTT switch momentarily to cancel the scanning. This only stops the scan; it does not cause
transmission to occur.
Notice: The VX-3R may receive very strong signals on the Image frequency. If you experience
interference that you suspect may be coming in via an “image” path, you may calculate the
possible frequencies using the formulas below. This information may be used in the design of
effective countermeasures such as traps, etc.
 3.579545 MHz x n
 11.7 MHz x n (n is an integer: 1, 2, 3, …..)
Transmission
Once you have set up an appropriate frequency inside one of the 144 MHz or 430 MHz Amateur bands on
which the VX-3R can transmit, you’re ready to go on the air! These are the most basic steps; more
advanced aspects of transmitter operation will be discussed later.
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VX-3R Operating Manual
1. To transmit, press the PTT switch, and speak into the front panel microphone (located in the upper
left-hand corner of the speaker grille) in a normal voice level. The TX/BUSY indicator will glow red
during transmission.
2. To return to the receive mode, release the PTT switch.
3. During transmission, the relative power level will be indicated on the bar graph at the bottom of the
LCD; full scale deflection confirms “High Power” operation, while deflection of two bars indicates “Low
Power” operation. Additionally, the “LOW” icon will appear at the bottom of the display while operating
on the “Low Power” setting.
4. If you’re just talking to friends in the immediate area, you’ll get much longer battery life by switching to
Low Power operation. To do this, press the [TXPO] key so that the “LOW” icon appears at the bottom
of the display. And don’t forget: always have an antenna connected when you transmit.
Transmission is possible only on the 144 MHz and 430 MHz bands.
R.F. Says: 1) The VX-3R is smart! You can set up Low power on 144 MHz band, while leaving 430 MHz on
High power, and the radio will remember the different settings on both bands. And when you store
memories, you can store High and Low power settings separately in each memory, so you don’t waste
battery power when using very close-in repeaters!
2) When you are operating on the Low power setting, you can press the [F/W] key, when press the PTT
switch, to cause the VX-3R to transmit (temporarily) on High power.After one transmission, the power level
will revert to the previously-selected (Low power) setting.
AM and FM Broadcast Reception
The VX-3R includes provision for reception of AM and FM broadcasts. With an FM broadcasts reception,
utilizing a wide-bandwidth filter and stereo decoder which provides excellent fidelity.
1. Press the [RADIO] key momentarily to enter the Broadcast Reception mode.
2. Press the [BAND] key to toggle the receiving band between “AM broadcast” and “FM broadcast”.
The AM broadcast coverage is 510 to 1790 kHz with AM mode. The “[A]” notation (which means AM)
appears in the Memory Channel Number display slot and “AM” icon appears on the bottom left of the
LCD.
The FM broadcasts coverage is 76.00 to 107.90 MHz with Wide-FM mode. The “[F]” notation (which
means AM) appears in the Memory Channel Number display slot and “WFM” icon appears on the
bottom left of the LCD.
3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired station. When receive the FM stereo signal, “))I((” icon will
appear at the bottom left of the display.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
4. Press and hold the [RADIO] key for one second to enable the antenna selection to be used by rotating
the DIAL knob. Available selections are:
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VX-3R Operating Manual
AM: “BARANT” (Uses the Rubber Flex Antenna) or “BAREXT” (Uses both the internal Bar Antenna
and the Rubber Flex Antenna).
FM: “EXTANT” (Uses the Rubber Flex Antenna) or “EARPHO” (Uses the Earphone Antenna).
5. When finish the selection, press the [RADIO] key momentarily to exit from the antenna selection mode.
6. Press the [RADIO] key momentarily again to exit from the AM and FM Broadcast Reception mode and
return to normal operation.
R.F. Says: If you wish to output the audio of the FM Broadcast station to the VX-3R internal speaker using
with an earphone antenna, select Set Mode Item 77: SP OUT to “SPKR”.
SUB-RX Operation
The SUB-RX Operation allows you to monitor your desired amateur band frequency while receiving AM or
FM broadcast stations. Furthermore, you may transmit on the amateur frequency by pressing the PTT
switch.
When a signal is received in the amateur band, the audio is output instead of the AM or FM Broadcast
station. When the amateur band signal drops, the SUB-RX Operation is resumed determine from the user
setting.
1. Set the VX-3R to the desired amateur band frequency by the VFO or Memory channel selection.
2. Press the [F/W] key then press the [RADIO] key.
3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the resume mode of the AF Priority feature. Available selections are:
TX 1S - TX 10S: When passes the selected time after the transmission was over on the amateur band,
the AM or FM Broadcast station will be heard from the speaker and the SUB-RX Operation is resumed.
However, when the signal received in the amateur band, the SUB-RX Operation will halt on the
amateur band frequency (the SUB-RX Operation does not resume.)
TRX 1S - TRX 10S: When passes the selected time after the amateur band signal drops or
transmission was over, the AM or FM Broadcast station will be heard from the speaker and the
SUB-RX Operation is resumed.
HOLD: When the signal received in the amateur band or transmit on the amateur band, the SUB-RX
Operation will halt on the amateur band frequency (the SUB-RX Operation does not resume.). You
must manually re-initiate the SUB-RX Operation, if you wish to resume.
OFF: Disable the SUB-RX Operation.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
4. Press the [RADIO] key to activate the SUB-RX Operation. The “PRI” icon appears at the above of the
volume level indicator on the display.
5. Press the [BAND] key to toggle the receiving band between “AM broadcast” and “FM broadcast”.
6. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired Broadcast station.
7. When the signal received in the amateur band, the amateur band audio output to the speaker instead
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VX-3R Operating Manual
of the AM or FM Broadcast station. When the amateur band signal drops, the AM or FM Broadcast
station will be heard from the speaker, and SUB-RX Operation is resumed (the amateur band
frequency is monitored while the AM broadcast station is heard from the speaker) according to the
SUB-RX Operation Resume mode selected in step 3 above.
8. You may monitor the amateur band forcibly while holding the [MONI] key.
To disable the AF Priority function, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob to select “OFF”
in step 3 above.
R.F. Say: 1) You may transmit the VX-3R on the frequency set in step1 above by pressing the PTT switch,
even if the SUB-RX Operation is activated.
2) You may change the frequency of the amateur band by rotating the DIAL knob while pressing the [MONI]
key.
Advanced Operation
Now that you’re mastered the basics of VX-3R operation, let’s learn more about some of the really neat
features.
Keyboard Locking
In order to prevent accidental frequency change or inadvertent transmission, various aspects of the
VX-3R’s keys and switches may be locked out. The possible lockout combinations are:
KEY: The front panel keys are locked out
PTT: The PTT switch is locked (TX not possible)
KY+PTT: Both the keys and PTT switch are locked out
To lock out some or all of the keys:
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 46: LOCK.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to choose between one of the locking schemes as outlined above.
5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to
normal operation.
To activate the locking feature, press the [F/W] key, then press and hold in the [BAND] key for one second.
The “Key Lock” icon will appear on the LCD. To cancel locking, repeat this process.
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Keypad/LCD Illumination
Your VX-3R includes a reddish illumination lamp which aids in nighttime operation. The red illumination
yields clear viewing of the display in a dark environment, with minimal degradation of your night vision.
Three options for activating the lamp are provided:
KEY 2S - KEY10S: Illuminates the Keypad/LCD for the selected illumination time when any key pressed.
CONT: Illuminates the Keypad/LCD continuously.
OFF: Disables the Keypad/LCD lamp.
Here is the procedure for setting up the Lamp mode:
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 44: LAMP.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select one of the three modes described above.
5. When you have made your choice, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to normal
operation.
Adjusting the Keypad Beeper Volume Level
A keypad beeper provides useful audible feed back whenever a keypad is pressed. The keypad beeper
level changes according to the receiver audio volume level setting. However, you may adjust the volume
balance between the receiving audio and keypad beeper via Set Mode Item 13: BP LVL.
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 13: BP LVL.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired level.
5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to
normal operation.
Additionally, if you want to turn the beep off:
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 14: BP SEL.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to change the setting to “OFF”.
5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to normal operation.
6. If you wish to re-enable the Beeper, just repeat the above procedure, rotating the DIAL knob to select
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“KEY” or “KY+SCN” in step “4” above.
KEY: The beeper sounds when you press any key.
KY+SCN: The beeper sounds when you press a key or when the scanner stops.
Checking the Battery Voltage
The VX-3R’s microprocessor includes programming which will detect the battery type and measure the
current battery voltage.
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 23: DC VLT.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to display the battery type and the current DC voltage being
supplied.
Lit: FNB-82LI is in use.
Edc: An external DC source is in use.
4. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to return to normal operation.
Changing the Channel Steps
The VX-3R’s synthesizer provides the option of utilizing channel steps of 5/8.33/9/10/12.5/15/20/25/50/100
kHz per step (optional values are different by a operating band), as well as an automatic step selection
based on the current operating frequency (“AUTO”), any number of which may be important to your
operating requirements. The VX-3R is set up at the factory in the “AUTO” configuration, which probably is
satisfactory for most operation. However, if you need to change the channel step increments, the procedure
to do so is very easy.
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 82: STEP.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the new channel step size.
5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to
normal operation.
R.F. Says: 1) 9 kHz steps are available only when receiving on the BC band.
2) 8.33 kHz steps are available only when receiving on theAir band.
3) While operating on the BC band, you may only select channel steps of 9 kHz or 10 kHz; the other step
selections are disabled.
4) 5 kHz steps are not available for use on 250 - 300 MHz, nor above 580 MHz.
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Changing the Receiving Mode
The VX-3R provides for automatic mode changing when the radio is tuned to different operating
frequencies. However, should an unusual receiving situation arise in which you need to change to other
receiving mode, just press the [MODE] key. The receiving modes available are:
AUTO: Automatic mode setting per default values for the selected frequency range.
FM: Narrow-bandwidth FM (used for voice communication)
W-FM: Wide-bandwidth FM (used for high-fidelity broadcasting)
AM: Amplitude Modulation
R.F. Says: Unless you have a compelling reason to do so, leave the Automatic Mode Selection feature on
so as to save time and trouble when changing bands. If you make a mode change for a particular channel
or station, you can always store that one channel into memory, as the mode setting will be memorized
along with the frequency information.
S-meter Squelch
A special S-meter Squelch feature is provided on this radio. This feature allows you to set the squelch so
that only signals exceeding a certain S-meter level will open the squelch.
To set up the S-meter squelch circuit for operation, use the following procedure:
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 80: SQSMTR.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired signal strength level for the squelch threshold (LVL 1 - LVL8
or OFF).
5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to normal operation.
R.F. Says: 1) When the S-meter squelch is activated, blink the S-meter segment corresponding with the
squelch threshold which set by step 4 above.
2) The receiver’s squelch will open based on the higher of the levels set by the two squelch systems (Noise
Squelch and S-meter Squelch).
For example:
a) If the Noise Squelch (SQL control) is set so that signals at a level of “S-3” will open the squelch, but the
S-meter Squelch (Set Mode Item 80) is set to “LVL 5,” the squelch will only open on signals which are “S5”
or stronger on the S-meter.
b) If the S-meter Squelch is set to “S3,” but the Noise Squelch is set to a high level which will only pass
signals which are Full Scale on the S-meter, the squelch will only open on signals which are Full Scale on
the S-meter. In this case, the Noise Squelch overrides the action of the S-meter Squelch.
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Checking the Temperature
The VX-3R can display the radio’s inside-the case temperature, measured by internal sensor.
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 85: TEMP.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to indicate the current temperature inside the transceiver’s case.
4. Press the [MODE] key to select the preferred unit (F (°F) or C (°C)).
5. Press the PTT switch to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
Repeater Operation
Repeater stations, usually located on mountaintops or other high locations, provide a dramatic extension of
the communication range for low-powered hand-held or mobile transceivers. The VX-3R includes a number
of features which make repeater operation simple and enjoyable.
Repeater Shifts
Your VX-3R has been configured, at the factory, for the repeater shifts customary in your country. For the
144 MHz band shift will be 600 kHz; on the 430 MHz band, the shift may be 1.6 MHz, 7.6 MHz, or 5 MHz
(USA version).
Depending on the part of the band in which you are operating, the repeater shift may be either downward
(–) or upward (+), and one of these icons will appear at the top of the LCD when repeater shifts have been
enabled.
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS)
The VX-3R provides a convenient Automatic Repeater Shift feature, which causes the appropriate repeater
shift to be applied automatically whenever you tune into the designated repeater sub-bands in your country.
These sub-bands are shown below.
If the ARS feature does not appear to be working, you may have accidentally disabled it.
To re-enable ARS:
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 5: ARS.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select “ON” (to enable Automatic Repeater Shift).
5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to
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normal operation.
Manual Repeater Shift Activation
If the ARS feature has been disabled, or if you need to set a repeater shift direction other than that
established by the ARS, you may set the direction of the repeater shift manually.
To do this:
1. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 68: RPT.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the desired shift among “–RPT,” “+RPT,” and “SIMP.”
5. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to
normal operation.
R.F. Says: If you make a change in the shift direction, but still haveAutomatic Repeater Shift still engaged
(see previous section), when you change frequency (by rotating the DIAL knob, for example) the ARS will
over-ride your manual setting of the shift direction. TurnARS off if you do not wish this to happen.
Changing the Default Repeater Shifts
If you travel to a different region, you may need to change the default repeater shift so as to ensure
compatibility with local operating requirements.
To do this, follow the procedure below:
1. Set the VX-3R’s frequency to the band on which you wish to change the default repeater shift (144
MHz or 430 MHz Ham Band).
2. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
3. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 69: RPT.SFT.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
4. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
5. Rotate the DIAL knob to select the new repeater shift magnitude.
6. When you have made your selection, press the PTT switch to save the new setting and return to
normal operation.
R.F. Says: If you just have one “odd” split that you need to program, don’t change the “default” repeated
shifts using this Set Mode Item! Enter the transmit and receive frequencies separately, as shown on
page ??.
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Checking the Repeater Uplink (Input) Frequency
It often is helpful to be able to check the uplink (input) frequency of a repeater, to see if the calling station is
within direct (“Simplex”) range.
To do this, just press the [HM/RV] key. You’ll notice that the display has shifted to the repeater uplink
frequency. Press the [HM/RV] key again to cause operation to revert to normal monitoring of the repeater
downlink (output) frequency.
R.F. Says: The configuration of this key may be set either to “RV” (for checking the input frequency of a
repeater), or “HM” (for instant switching to the “Home” channel for the band you are operating on). To
change the configuration of this key, use Set Mode Item 36: HM/RV. See page ??.
CTCSS/DCS/EPCS Operation
CTCSS Operation
Many repeater systems require that a very-low-frequency audio tone be superimposed on your FM carrier
in order to activate the repeater. This helps prevent false activation of the repeater by radar or spurious
signals from other transmitters. This tone system, called “CTCSS” (Continuous Tone Coded Squelch
System), is included in your VX-3R, and is very easy to activate.
R.F. Says: CTCSS setup involves two actions: setting the Tone Frequency and then setting of the Tone
Mode. These actions are set up by using the [MODE] key or Set Mode Items 79: SQ TYP and 86: TN FRQ.
1. Press the [F/W] key, then press the [MODE] key. This provides a “Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 79: SQ
TYP.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob so that “TONE” appears on the display; this activates the CTCSS Encoder,
which allows repeater access.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
3. Rotation of the DIAL knob one more “click” in step “2” above will cause the “T SQL” notation to appear.
When “TSQL” is displayed, this means that the Tone SQueLch system is active, which mutes your
VX-3R’s receiver until it receives a call from another radio sending out a matching CTCSS tone. This
can help keep your radio quiet until a specific call is received, which may be helpful while operating in
congested
R.F. Says: 1) You may notice an additional “DCS” icon appearing while you rotate the DIAL knob in this
step. We’ll discuss the Digital Code Squelch system shortly.
2) You may notice “RV TN” indication on the display while you rotate the DIAL knob in this step, this
means that the Reverse Tone Squelch system is active, which mutes your VX-3R’s receiver when it
receives a call from the radio sending a matched CTCSS tone. The “TSQ” icon will blink on the display
when the Reverse Tone Squelch system is activated.
3) You may notice “PR FRQ” indication on the display while you rotate the DIAL knob in this step, this
means that User programmed Reverse CTCSS Decoder mutes your VX-3R’s receiver when it receives
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a call from the radio sending a matched your programmed matching tone (determine from Set Menu
Item: 63: PR FRQ) is received. The “SQ” icon will appear on the display when the User programmed
Reverse CTCSS Decoder is activated.
4) You may notice “PAGER” and “MESSAGE” indication on the display while you rotate the DIAL knob
in this step, these means that activating the “User programmed Reverse CTCSS Decoder”, “Enhanced
Paging & Code Squelch”, and the “Message Feature”. We’ll discuss later these functions.
4. When you have made your selection of the CTCSS tone mode, press the PTT switch to save the new
setting.
5. Press and hold in the [TXPO] key for one second to enter the Set mode.
6. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 86: TN FRQ.
Note: Do not forget to pull the DIAL knob to rotate the DIAL knob.
7. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of the CTCSS frequency.
8. Rotate the DIAL knob until the display indicates the Tone Frequency you need to be using (ask the
repeater owner/operator if you don’t know the tone frequency).
9. When you have made your selection, press the [TXPO] key momentarily, then press the PTT switch, to
save the new settings and exit to normal operation. This is different than the usual method of restoring
normal operation, and it applies only to the configuration of the CTCSS/DCS frequencies.
R.F. Says: 1) Your repeater may or may not re-transmit a CTCSS tone - some systems just use CTCSS to
control access to the repeater, but don’t pass it along when transmitting. If the S-Meter deflects, but the
VX-3R is not passing audio, repeat steps “1” through “4” above, but rotate the DIAL so that “TSQ”
disappears - this will allow you to hear all traffic on the channel being received.
2) During CTCSS operation, you may set up the VX-3R such that a ringing “bell” sound alerts you to the fact
that a call is coming in. See page ?? for details.
DCS Operation
Another form of tone access control is Digital Code Squelch, or DCS. It is a newer, more advanced tone
system which generally provides more immunity from false paging than does CTCSS. The DCS
Encoder/Decoder is built into your VX-3R, and operation is very similar to that just described for CTCSS.
Your repeater system may be configured for DCS; if not, DCS is frequently quite useful in Simplex operation
if your friend(s) use transceivers equipped with this advanced feature.
R.F. Says: Just as in CTCSS operation, DCS requires that you set the Tone Mode to DCS and that you
select a tone code.
1. Press the [F/W] key, then press the [MODE] key. This provides a “Short-cut” to Set Mode Item 79: SQ
TYP.
2. Press the [TXPO] key momentarily to enable adjustment of this Item.
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