Yaesu FT-818ND User manual

HF/VHF/UHF
SSB/CW/AM/FM ULTRA-COMPACT TRANSCEIVER
FT-818ND
Operating Manual

Contents
Introduction...................................................... 1
Safety Precautions .......................................... 2
Accessories & Options ................................... 4
Supplied Accessories...................................... 4
Available Options ............................................ 4
Installation........................................................ 5
Connecting the Supplied YHA-63 Antenna ..... 5
Connecting the Microphone ............................ 6
Shoulder Strap Installation.............................. 6
Rubber Foot Installation.................................. 6
Alkaline Battery Installation and Use .............. 7
External Power Connections........................... 8
SBR-32MH Ni-MH Battery Pack
Installation and Use ........................................ 9
Installation .................................................... 9
Charging....................................................... 9
Front Panel Control & Switches................... 10
Display Icons .............................................. 13
Side Panel Switch & Connectors ................. 14
Rear Panel Connectors................................. 15
Operation........................................................ 16
Turning the Transceiver On and Off.............. 16
Supply Voltage Display ................................. 16
Operating Band Selection ............................. 17
Mode Selection ............................................. 17
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level................. 17
Menu Quick Start .......................................... 18
Adjusting the RF Gain and Squelch.............. 18
Setting the Operating Frequency .................. 19
Stacked VFO System.................................... 19
Operation on 5 MHz Band (U.S. Version Only) ... 20
Receiver Accessories ................................... 21
Clarier (Receiver Incremental Tuning) ........ 21
IF SHIFT ....................................................... 22
AGC (Automatic Gain Control)...................... 22
Noise Blanker................................................ 23
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) ................ 23
ATT (Front End Attenuator)........................... 23
AM/FM DIAL.................................................. 24
Automatic Power-Off Feature ....................... 24
Transmitter Operation................................... 25
SSB Transmission......................................... 25
Basic Setup/Operation ............................... 25
VOX Operation ........................................... 26
CW Transmission.......................................... 27
Operation using Straight Key/
External Keying Device .............................. 27
Operation using Built-in Electronic Keyer... 29
FM Transmission........................................... 30
Basic Setup/Operation ............................... 30
Repeater Operation.................................... 30
DCS Operation ........................................... 32
ARTSTM (Auto Range Transpond System)
Operation.................................................... 33
CW Identier Setup .................................... 33
Digital Mode Operation (SSB-Based AFSK) .... 34
RTTY (Radio TeleType) Operation ............. 34
PSK31 Operation ....................................... 35
“USER” Dened Digital Modes................... 36
Packet (1200/9600 bps FM) Operation......... 37
AM Transmission .......................................... 38
Split Frequency Operation ............................ 38
Time-Out Timer ............................................. 39
Weather Fax Monitoring................................ 39
Memory Operation......................................... 40
QMB Channel ............................................... 40
QMB Channel Storage ............................... 40
QMB Channel Recall.................................. 40
Memory Operation on “Regular”
Memory Channels......................................... 41
Normal Memory Storage ............................ 41
Split-Frequency Memory Storage............... 41
Memory Channel Recall ............................. 42
Masking Memory ........................................ 42
Memory Operation on “HOME” Channel
Memories ...................................................... 43
HOME Channel Storage............................. 43
HOME Channel Recall ............................... 43
Labeling Memories........................................ 44
Setting the Spectrum Scope Mode............. 45
Activate the Spectrum Scope ..................... 45
Spectrum Scope Monitor Operation............ 45
Smart Search™ Operation............................ 46
Scanning Operation ...................................... 47
Scanning Operation ...................................... 47
Scan Skip Programming (Memory Mode Only) ... 48
Programmable Memory Scan (PMS) Operation ... 49
Dual Watch Operation ................................... 50
Operation on Alaska Emergency
Frequency: 5167.5 khz (U.S. Version Only) ... 51
Menu Operation ............................................. 52
Cloning ........................................................... 63
CAT System Programming ........................... 64
CAT Data Protocol ........................................ 65
Constructing and Sending CAT Commands ... 65
Opcode Command Chart ........................... 66
Installation of Optional Accessories ........... 68
Optional Filters YF-122S/YF-122C/YF-122CN ... 68
Power-on Microprocessor Reset Procedure ... 69
Appendix ........................................................ 69
BAND DATA FORMAT .................................. 69
Specications ................................................ 70

1
Introduction
The FT-818 is a compact, innovative multiband, multimode portable transceiver for the
amateur radio MF/HF/VHF/UHF bands. Providing coverage of the 160-10 meter bands
plus the 6 m, 2 m, and 70 cm bands, the FT-818 includes operation on the SSB, CW, AM,
FM, and Digital modes, yielding the most comprehensive performance package available
for portable operation.
Designed for use either from an external DC power source or internal batteries, the
FT-818 provides 6 watts of power output from a 13.8-Volt external power supply. When
using the SBR-32MH Ni-MH Battery Pack or 8 “AA” Alkaline Cells (not supplied), the
FT-818 automatically switches to 2.5 Watts of output power.
The multi-function Liquid-Crystal Display includes Blue, Amber, and Violet backlighting,
which may be disabled for battery conservation. The display includes bar-graph indication
of power output, ALC voltage, SWR, and modulation level. Also include are a number of
operating status icons, as well as the function displays for the three operating function
keys ( , , and ).
Among the advanced features of the FT-818 are many incorporated only in large base-sta-
tion transceivers. These include Dual VFOs; Split-Frequency operation; IF Shift; Clarier
(“R.I.T.”); IF Noise Blanker; AGC Fast/Slow/Auto/Off selection; RF Gain and Squelch con-
trol; IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) and a receiver front-end Attenuator; AM Aircraft
reception; AM and FM Broadcast reception; VOX; Built-in Electronic Keyer; Adjustable CW
Pitch; Automatic FM Repeater Shift (ARS); Built-in CTCSS Encoder/Decoders; ARTS™
(Auto-Range Transponder System); Smart Search™ Automatic Memory Loading System;
Spectrum Scope; 200 Memories plus Home Channels and Band-limiting Memories; Al-
pha-Numeric Labeling of Memories; Automatic Power-Off (APO) and Time-Out Timer (TOT)
functions; Computer Interface capability; and Cloning capability.
We urge you to read this manual in its entirety, so as to gain a full understanding of the
amazing capability of the exciting FT-818 Portable Transceiver.

2
Safety Precautions
Note beforehand that the company shall not be liable for any damages suffered by the customer or third parties in
using this product, or for any failures and faults that occur during the use or misuse of this product, unless otherwise
provided for under the law.
Type and meaning of the marks
DANGER This mark indicates an imminently hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
WARNING This mark indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION This mark indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may
result in minor or moderate injury or only property damage.
Type and meaning of symbols
Prohibited actions that must not be attempted, in order to use this radio safely.
For example, signifies that disassembly is prohibited.
Precautions that must be adhered to in order to use this radio safely. For example, signifies that the
power supply is to be disconnected.
DANGER
Do not use the device in “regions or aircrafts
and vehicles where its use is prohibited” such
as in hospitals and airplanes.
This may exert an impact on electronic and med-
ical devices.
Do not use this product while driving or riding
a motorbike. This may result in accidents.
Make sure to stop the car in a safe location first
before use if the device is going to be used by
the driver.
Do not operate the device when flammable
gas is generated.
Doing so may result in fire and explosion.
Never touch the antenna during transmission.
This may result in injury, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.
Do not transmit in crowded places in consid-
eration of people who are fitted with medical
devices such as heart pacemakers.
Electromagnetic waves from the device may af-
fect the medical device, resulting in accidents
caused by malfunctions.
When an alarm goes off with the external an-
tenna connected, cut off the power supply to
this radio immediately and disconnect the ex-
ternal antenna from this radio.
If not, this may result in fire, electric shock and
equipment failure.
Do not touch any liquid leaking from the liquid
display with your bare hands.
There is a risk of chemical burns occurring when
the liquid comes into contact with the skin or gets
into the eyes. In this case, seek medical treatment
immediately.
WARNING
Do not use voltages other than the specified
power supply voltage.
Doing so may result in fire and electric shock.
Do not transmit continuously for long periods
of time.
This may cause the temperature of the main body
to rise and result in burns and failures due to over-
heating.
Do not dismantle or modify the device.
This may result in injury, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.
Do not handle the power plug and connector
etc. with wet hands. Also do not plug and un-
plug the power plug with wet hands.
This may result in injury, liquid leak, electric shock
and equipment failure.
Keep the power plug pins and the surrounding
areas clean at all times.
This may result in fire, liquid leak, overheating,
breakage, ignition etc.
When smoke or strange odors are emitted
from the radio, turn off the power and discon-
nect the power cord from the socket.
This may result in fire, liquid leak, overheating,
damage, ignition and equipment failure. Please
contact our company amateur customer support
or the retail store where you purchased the de-
vice.
Disconnect the power cord and connection
cables before incorporating items sold sepa-
rately and replacing the fuse.
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.
Never cut off the fuse holder of the DC power
cord.
This may cause short-circuiting and result in ig-
nition and fire.
Do not use fuses other than those specified.
Doing so may result in fire and equipment failure.
Do not allow metallic objects such as wires
and water to get inside the product.
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.

3
Safety Precautions
Do not place the device in areas that may get
wet easily (e.g. near a humidifier).
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.
When connecting a DC power cord, pay due
care not to mix up the positive and negative
polarities.
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.
Do not use DC power cords other than the one
enclosed or specified.
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.
Do not bend, twist, pull, heat and modify the
power cord and connection cables in an un-
reasonable manner.
This may cut or damage the cables and result in
fire, electric shock and equipment failure.
Refrain from using headphones and ear-
phones at a loud volume.
Continuous exposure to loud volumes may result
in hearing impairment.
Do not pull the cable when plugging and un-
plugging the power cord and connection ca-
bles.
Please hold the plug or connector when unplug-
ging. If not, this may result in fire, electric shock
and equipment failure.
Do not use the device when the power cord
and connection cables are damaged, and
when the DC power connector cannot be
plugged in tightly.
Please contact our company amateur customer
support or the retail store where you purchased
the device as this may result in fire, electric shock
and equipment failure.
Follow the instructions given when installing
items sold separately and replacing the fuse.
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.
Do not use the device when the alarm goes off.
For safety reasons, please pull the power plug of
the DC power equipment connected to the prod-
uct out of the AC socket.
Never touch the antenna as well. This may result
in fire, electric shock and equipment failure due
to thunder.
CAUTION
Do not place this device near a heating instru-
ment or in a location exposed to direct sun-
light.
This may result in deformation and discoloration.
Do not place this device in a location where
there is a lot of dust and humidity.
Doing so may result in fire and equipment failure.
Stay as far away from the antenna as possible
during transmission.
Long-term exposure to electromagnetic radiation
may have a negative effect on the human body.
Do not wipe the case using thinner and ben-
zene etc.
Please use a soft and dry piece of cloth to wipe
away the stains on the case.
Keep out of the reach of small children.
If not, this may result in injuries to children.
Do not put heavy objects on top of the power
cord and connection cables.
This may damage the power cord and connection
cables, resulting in fire and electric shock.
Do not transmit near the television and radio.
This may result in electromagnetic interference.
Do not use optional products other than those
specified by our company.
If not, this may result in equipment failure.
When using the device in a hybrid car or fu-
el-saving car, make sure to check with the car
manufacturer before using.
The device may not be able to receive transmis-
sions normally due to the influence of noises from
the electrical devices (inverters etc.)fitted in the
car.
Do not turn on the volume too high when us-
ing a headphone or earphone.
This may result in hearing impairment.
For safety reasons, switch off the power and
pull out the DC power cord connected to the
DC power connector when the device is not
going to be used for a long period of time.
If not, this may result in fire and overheating.
Do not throw or subject the device to strong
impact forces.
This may result in equipment failure.
Do not the put this device near magnetic cards
and video tapes.
The data in the cash card and video tape etc. may
be erased.
Do not place the device on an unsteady or
sloping surface, or in a location where there is
a lot of vibration.
The device may fall over or drop, resulting in fire,
injury and equipment failure.
Do not stand on top of the product, and do not
place heavy objects on top or insert objects
inside it.
If not, this may result in equipment failure.
Do not use a microphone other than those
specified when connecting a microphone to
the device.
If not, this may result in equipment failure.
Do not touch the heat radiating parts.
When used for a long period of time, the tempera-
ture of the heat radiating parts will get higher, re-
sulting in burns when touched.
Do not open the case of the product except
when replacing the fuse and when installing
items sold separately.
This may result in injury, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.

4
Accessories & Options
Supplied Accessories
MH-31A8J Hand Microphone
SBR-32MH Ni-MH Battery Pack (9.6 V, 1900 mAh)
PA-48B/C/U Battery Charger
FBA-28 Battery Case (holds 8 “AA” size Alkaline cells [not supplied])
YHA-63 Whip Antenna for (50/144/430 MHz)
E-DC-6 DC Cable
Shoulder Strap
Ferrite Core
Rubber Foot
Available Options
SBR-32MH Ni-MH Battery Pack (9.6 V, 1900 mAh)
PA-48B/C/UBattery Charger
YF-122S Collins SSB Filter (2.3 kHz/4.7 kHz: –6 dB/–66 dB)
YF-122C Collins CW Filter (500 Hz/2 kHz: –6 dB/–60 dB)
YF-122CN Collins CW Filter (300 Hz/1 kHz: –6 dB/–60 dB)
MH-31A8J Hand Microphone
MH-36E8J DTMF Microphone
M-1 Reference Microphone
M-100 Dual Element Microphone
YH-77STA Lightweight Stereo Headphone
SCU-17 USB Interface Unit
CSC-83 Soft Case
CT-62 CAT Interface Cable
CT-39A Packet Cable
ATAS-25 Active Tuning Antenna (Manual Type)
: Depends on the transceiver version.

5
Installation
Connecting the Supplied YHA-63 Antenna
Your FT-818 is supplied with a three-section antenna, model YHA-63 which is designed for
optimum performance on the 50 MHz, 144 MHz, and 430 MHz. It also works well on the
FM broadcast and other VHF bands. This antenna is intended for connection to the front
panel’s BNC-type antenna connector.
For HF and/or 50 MHz operation, most hikers carry their own dipole or collapsible vertical
antenna, fed by a small-diameter coaxial cable terminated in a type “M” (PL-259) plug, and
these kinds of antennas may be connected to the rear panel’s antenna connector.
The YHA-63 should be connected to the top panel’s “BNC” connector, using the following
guidelines:
For 144/430 MHz operation (only), connect the shorter cap section to the screw post
on the top of the main antenna shaft, then screw the assembled YHA-63 onto the BNC
connector, twisting it 1/4 turn clockwise to secure the antenna.
For 50 MHz operation, unscrew the short cap section, and replace it with the long
cap section. The long cap section will provide good results on 144/430 MHz, as well,
but those owners not using 50 MHz may prefer the shorter total length of the YHA-63
when using the short cap on 144/430 MHz.
For shortwave listening using a ran-
dom-length wire antenna for recep-
tion only, you may wish to consider
connection of the wire between the
main YHA-63 shaft and the cap,
using a “spade lug” or similar lug
on the end of the wire to provide a
secure connection between the cap
and the rest of the antenna.
Menu #07 (“ANTENNA”) allows you
to dene which connector (“Front” or
“Rear”) is used on a particular band.
See page 54 for details.
BAND
DWN UP
MODE
ABC

6
Installation
Connecting the Microphone
To connect the microphone, plug
its connector (latch side UP) into
the MIC jack on the right side of the
transceiver. Press it gently inward
until you hear the “click” of the latch.
To disconnect the microphone, press
gently on the “PUSH ” label on top
of the microphone connector’s rub-
ber boot. While pressing on this spot,
gently pull the connector outward from the body of the transceiver.
Note: During “Digital” or “Packet” operation, it is not necessary to disconnect the micro-
phone, as activation of the PTT line from the DATA connector automatically cuts off the
audio input from the MIC jack.
Shoulder Strap Installation
The convenient Shoulder Strap is designed for maximum comfort and security for your FT-
818 transceiver.
Refer to the illustration, and connect the
shoulder strap to the attachment tabs just
behind the front panel of the FT-818. Be
sure to have the shoulder strap aligned
correctly, without twists in the straps.
A convenient microphone hanger is locat-
ed on one end of the padded top section of
the Shoulder Strap. When not in use, the
microphone may be affixed here, freeing
both of your hands for other tasks.
Rubber Foot Installation
Four Rubber Feet are provided with your FT-818, for ease of use when operating from a
base station or camp table.
Refer to the illustration, and afx the Rubber Feet
in the appropriate locations.
MIC
SP/PH SP PH
-
PUSH

BAND
DWN UP
MODE
ABC





7
Installation
Alkaline Battery Installation and Use
The FT-818 is supplied with the FBA-28 holder for Alkaline “AA” cells. A fresh set of Alka-
line cells should provide approximately 5.5 hours of reception under typical conditions.
1. To install or replace the AA cells, rst remove the battery cover from the bottom side of
the transceiver. Slide the battery cover latch forward, as shown in the illustration, then
fold the battery cover upward and set it aside temporarily.
2. Install the Alkaline AA cells as shown in the illustration, paying particular attention to the
correct polarity of the batteries.
3. When all batteries have been successfully installed, replace the battery cover.
Important Notes
When the transceiver is to be stored for a long period of time without use (longer
than ten days), remove the batteries from the FBA-28 holder, to avoid the pos-
sibility of battery leaking causing damage to the transceiver. Inspect the FBA-
28 battery holder occasionally for signs of corrosion or battery leakage, and
remove the batteries immediately if any such damage is observed.

The FBA-28 battery holder is designed for use solely with Alkaline type “AA”
cells. Do not attempt to use Ni-MH or other rechargeable cells in the FBA-28,
because it does not contain the protection circuitry required when using re-
chargeable cells.
When replacing batteries, replace all eight AA cells simultaneously with fresh
batteries.
When the battery voltage is approaching the value which indicates depletion is
near, the small “ ” will blink, indicating it is time to replace the batteries.

8
Installation
External Power Connections
The FT-818 may be connected to an external 13.8 Volt DC power source providing at least
3 Amps of continuous-duty current.. The supplied E-DC-6 DC cable may be used for DC
connections.
While connected to an external DC source, if you have installed the supplied SBR-32MH
Ni-MH Battery Pack, the E-DC-6 connection to the external DC power source will allow op-
eration of the FT-818 while charging of the SBR-32MH is in progress.
When making DC power connections, be absolutely certain to follow the markings on the
E-DC-6 so as to ensure proper polarity of the connection to the power supply. Connect the
Red and Black or White and Black wire to the Positive (+) power supply terminal, and con-
nect the Solid Black wire to the Negative (-) power supply terminal.
V A
0 05 510 2015 3020 40
CONTINU OUS CU RRENT 25 A
OVE RLO AD
POW ER
ON
OFF
POWERSUPPLY
FP
-
1030
A
6A 25A 10A
FP-1030A
Supplied DC Cable (E-DC-6)
RED/BLACK
or
WHITE/BLACK
BLACK
GND
KEY DATA ACC
ANT
:
INPUT DC13.8V
INPUT DC13.8V
FT-818
Notice
Be extremely careful when making power supply connections. Use only a 13.8 Volt
DC Supply, and carefully observe the proper electrical polarity. Serious damage
may result if these precautions are not observed.
The Limited Warranty on this product does not cover damage caused by improper
power supply connections, or improper power supply voltage.
Important Note
Occasionally, the 430 MHz transmit signal may behave abnormally when the FT-
818 is operated using an External Power Supply and the whip antenna, especially
with the antenna in close proximity to surrounding metal objects.
If abnormal transmitter operation is ex-
perienced, wind one turn of the E-DC-
6DC cable around the supplied ferrite
core, and snap its two halves together,
per the illustration below. Install the
core as close as possible to the DC
plug, as shown.
E-DC-6 DC Cable
as close as possible
wind one turn,
snap two halves

9
Installation
SBR-32MH Ni-MH Battery Pack Installation and Use
The supplied SBR-32MH Ni-MH Battery Pack provides 9.6 Volts of DC power for your FT-
818, with a maximum capacity of 1900 mAh.
Installation
1. To install the SBR-32MH Ni-MH Battery
Pack, rst remove the battery compart-
ment cover, as described previously.
2. Lift out the FBA-28 battery holder, and
disconnect the short cable connected to
the FBA-28, as shown in the illustration.
3. Connect the short cable to the mating
connector on the SBR-32MH, and install
the SBR-32MH in the battery compart-
ment.
4. Replace the battery compartment cover.
Charging
Charging of the SBR-32MH requires the use of either the supplied battery charger (PA-48B/
C/U), or an external 13.8 Volt (±15%) DC source. If the battery charger is used, the FT-818
must be turned off during charging; if an external 13.8 Volt DC source is used (connect-
ed via the supplied E-DC-6 cable), then you may operate the FT-818 while charging is in
progress.
1. Turn the FT-818 off, then connect the supplied battery charger DC connector to the IN-
PUT: 13.8V jack on the rear panel of the FT-818.
2. Plug the battery charger into the nearest AC wall outlet.
3. Press the FT-818’s switch for one second to turn the transceiver on.
4. Press the key momentarily.
5. Rotate the knob so that the function row containing “[CHG, VLT, DSP]” appears
on the display.
6. Press the key to select the [CHG]option (the display will immediately revert to the
regular frequency display).
7. Turn the FT-818 off. The display will indicate “CHG TIME RMN”
and remaining time to indicate the time remaining before a full
charge is achieved on the SBR-32MH.
Important Note
The PA-48 are not designed to power the transceiver for operation (reception or trans-
mission).
Please be advised that the PA-48 may contribute noise to TV and radio reception in
the immediate vicinity, so we do not recommend its use adjacent to such devices.
FBA-28
SBR-32MH

10
CLAR
E
L
S
A B C
F
V
LOCK PWR
SQL/RF
AF
HOME
M
⑮
⑭ ⑬ ⑨ ⑦ ② ③
⑫ ⑪ ⑩ ⑧ ⑥ ⑤ ④ ①
PWR Switch
Press and hold in the switch for one second to turn to the transceiver on or off.
AF Knob
The (inner) knob adjusts the receiver audio volume level presented to the inter-
nal or external speaker. Clockwise rotation increases the volume level.
SQL/RF Knob
In the USA version, this (outer) knob adjusts the gain of the receiver’s RF
and IF stages. Using Menu Selection 45, this control may be changed to function as
a Squelch control, which may be used to silence background noise when no signal is
present. In the other versions, its default setting is set to “Squelch”.
LOCK Key
Pressing this key locks the front panel keys so as to prevent accidental frequency
change.
V/M Key
Pressing this key switches frequency control between the VFO and Memory Systems.
TRANSMIT/BUSY Indicator
This LED glows green when the squelch opens, and turns red during transmit.
MAIN Dial
This is the main tuning dial for the transceiver. It is used both for frequency tuning as
well as “Menu” setting in the transceiver.
FKey
Pressing this key momentarily changes the display to show the operating functions
available via the , , keys.
Press and hold this key for one second to activate the “Menu” mode.
Front Panel Control & Switches

11
Front Panel Control & Switches
FUNC Keys
These three keys select many of the most important operating features of the trans-
ceiver. When pressing the key, the current function of that key appears above each
of the , , keys (along the bottom of the LCD); rotating the knob
scrolls the display through eleven rows of functions available for use via the , ,
keys.
The available features are shown in chart on the next page.
BAND(DWN)/BAND(UP)Key
Pressing either of these keys momentarily will cause the frequency to be moved up or
down by one frequency band. The selections available are:
1.8 MHz 3.5 MHz 5.0 MHz 7.0 MHz 10 MHz 14 MHz 15 MHz 18 MHz
21 MHz24 MHz28 MHz50 MHz88 MHz108 MHz144 MHz430 MHz
MODE()/MODE()Key
Pressing either of these keys momentarily will change the operating mode. The selec-
tions available are:
LSB USB CW CWR AM FM DIG PKT
HOME Key
Pressing this key momentarily recalls a favorite “home” frequency memory.
SEL Knob
This detented rotary switch is used for tuning, memory selection, and function selec-
tion for the , , keys of the transceiver.
CLAR Key
Press this key momentarily to activate the Receiver Clarier feature. When this feature
is activated, the knob may be used to set a tuning offset of up to ±9.99 kHz. The
transmitter’s frequency is not affected by the setting of the Clarier.
Press and hold this key for 1/2 second to activate the IF Shift feature, which allows
you to use the knob to adjust the center frequency of the IF lter’s passband re-
sponse.
ANT Jack
Connect the supplied 50/144/430 MHz rubber ex antenna (or another antenna pre-
senting a 50Ωimpedance) to this BNC connector.
In its default setting, this jack does not function on the HF bands. If you want to enable
this jack on the HF bands, recall and change the setting of Menu #07.

12
Front Panel Control & Switches
key key key
1
A/B
Press the key to switch
between VFO-A and VFO-B
on the display.
A=B
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to copy the
contents of VFO-A into the
VFO-B register, so that the
two VFOs’ contents will be
identical.
SPL
Press the key to activate
Split frequency operation be-
tween VFO-A and VFO-B.
2
MW
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to transfer
the contents of the VFO into a
Memory register.
MC
Press the key to des-
ignate the current Memory
channel to be “skipped”
during scanning.
TAG
Press the key to select
the display type (Frequency
or Alpha-numeric Tag) during
Memory operation.
3
STO
Press the key to store
the contents of the VFO into
the QMB (Quick Memory
Bank) register.
RCL
Press the key to recall
the QMB Memory.
PMS
Press the key to activate
the Programmable Memory
Scan feature.
4
RPT
Press the key to select
the direction of the uplink
frequency shift (“–,” “+,” or
Simplex) during FM repeater
operation.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #42 (for setting the shift
frequency offset).
REV
Press the key to reverse
the transmit and receive
frequencies while working
through a repeater.
TON
Press the key to activate
CTCSS or DCS operation.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #48 (for selecting the
CTCSS tone frequency).
5
SCN
Press the key to initiate
scanning (in the direction of
higher frequencies).
PRI
Press the key to activate
the Priority Scan feature.
DW
Press the key to activate
the Dual Watch system.
6
SSM
Press the key to activate
the Spectrum Scope Monitor
feature.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #43 (for selecting the
SSM sweep mode).
SCH
Press the key to activate
Smart SearchTM operation.
ART
Press the key to initiate
the Auto-Range Transponder
mode.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #09 (for selecting the
ARTS “Beep” option).
7
IPO
Press the key to bypass
the receiver preamplifier,
thereby activating Intercept
Point Optimization for im-
proved overload characteris-
tics.
The IPO feature does not
function on 144/430 MHz.
ATT
Press the key to engage
the receiver front-end atten-
uator, which will reduce all
signals and noise by approxi-
mately 10 dB.
The ATT feature does not
function on 144/430 MHz.
NAR
Press the key to activate
the “Narrow” lter mode in the
CW (optional YF-122C or YF-
122CN required) mode. On
the FM mode, it also selects
the low-deviation mode re-
quired for HF FM operation
on 29 MHz.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #38 (to Enable/Disable
the optional lter during instal-
lation).

13
Front Panel Control & Switches
key key key
8
NB
Press the key to activate
the receiver’s IF Noise Blank-
er.
AGC
Press the key to select
the recovery time (Fast,
Slow, Auto, or Off) for the
receiver’s AGC system.
–
No function
9
PWR
Press the key to select
the transmitter power output
level (Low 1, Low 2, Low 3,
or High).
MTR
Press the key to select
the display function of the
meter in the transmit mode
(Power, ALC, SWR, or MOD
indication).
–
No function
10
VOX
Press the key to enable
the VOX (voice-operated
transmitter switching system)
in the SSB, AM, and FM
modes.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #51 (for setting the
VOX Gain level).
BK
Press the key to activate
CW “Semi” Break-in opera-
tion.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #17 (for setting the CW
Delay time). At a setting of 10
ms, operation emulates full
QSK performance.
KYR
Press the key to activate
the built-in Electronic Keyer.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #21 (for setting the
Keyer speed).
11
CHG
Press the key to initiate
Battery Charging.
Press and hold in the
key for 1/2 second to recall
Menu #11 (for selecting the
Charging period).
VLT
Press the key to display
the current battery voltage.
DSP
Press the key to switch
the display between the Large
Character and Small Charac-
ter modes.
12
TCH
Press the key to initiate
Tone Search.
DCH
Press the key to initiate
DCS Search.
–
No function
* The Operating Function number in this column does not appear on the LCD.
Display Icons
Operating Mode
S:
PO:
AL:
S-Meter
TX Power Meter
ACL Meter
SW:
MO:
SWR Meter
Deviation Meter
Low Battery!
Split Frequency Operation
Low TX Power Selected
Automatic Power-Off
Digital Coded Squelch
CTCSS Decoder
CTCSS Encoder
Repeater Shift Direction
Dual Watch
Active (page 38
)
(page 25)
Active (page 24)
Active (page 32)
Active (page 31)
Active (page 31)
(page 30)
Active (page 50)
LOCK Feature Active (page 10)
FST Button MH-31( ) Active
A8J
Rear Panel Antenna Selected (page 54)
: This operation does not function in the FM Broadcast frequencies.

14
MIC
SP/PH SP PH
-
① ② ③
MIC Jack
Connect the supplied MH-31A8J Hand Microphone to this jack.
MIC
FAST
GND
PTT
MIC MIC GND
+5 V
UP
DOWN
SP/PH Jack
This 3.5-mm, 2-pin jack provides variable audio output for an external speaker (4 Ω-
16 Ωimpedance) or earphones. The audio level varies according to the setting of the
front panel’s knob.
When you insert an earphone plug into this jack, the SP-PH slide switch (located
to the right side of this jack) MUST BE set to the “PH” position, to prevent the
possibility of injury to your ears.
SIGNAL
GND
SP-PH Switch
If you use earphones with this transceiver, move this switch to the “PH” position before
inserting the earphone plug into the SP/PH Jack, to prevent injury your ears.
Side Panel Switch & Connectors

15
Rear Panel Connectors
GND
KEY DATA ACC
ANT
:
INPUT DC13.8V
②
③
⑥
⑤④①
INPUT:13.8V Jack ()
This is the DC power supply connection for the transceiver, used when operating the
transceiver with an external power supply. Use the supplied DC cable to connect this
jack to the car battery or base station DC power supply, which must be capable of
supplying at least 3A @ 8 - 16 VDC. This jack is also used for battery charging (when
using the supplied SBR-32MH battery pack).
GND Terminal
For best performance and safety, this Ground lug may be connected to a good earth
ground using a short, heavy, braided cable.
KEY Jack
This 3.5-mm, 3-pin jack
is used for connection to
a CW keyer paddle or a
straight key.
DATA Jack
This 6-pin, mini-DIN jack accepts AFSK input from a Termi-
nal Node Controller (TNC); it also provides xed-level Re-
ceiver Audio Output, Push-To-Talk (PTT), Squelch Status,
and ground lines.
ACC Jack
This 8-pin, mini-DIN jack provides a closure to ground
during transmission, ALC, a transmitter-inhibit pin, and
“band data” for connection to an external amplier. It is also
used for Transceiver-to Transceiver Cloning and for control
of this transceiver using a personal computer.
ANT Jack
Connect your HF and/or 50 MHz antenna’s 50-ohm coaxial cable to this M-type (“SO-
239”) connector. In its default setting, this jack does not function on 50/144/430 MHz
bands. If you want to enable this jack on 50/144/430 MHz bands, recall and change
the settings of Menu #07.
+13.8V
BAND DATA
ALC
TX INH
RX D
TX D
TX GND
GND
DATA OUT
1200bps
DATA OUT
9600bps
SQL
GND
PTT
DATA IN
KEY
KEY
NC GND
GND
When connecting a single straight key
When connecting an electronic keyer paddle
DOT DASH COMMON
DOT DASH
COMMON

16
Operation
Turning the Transceiver On and Off
1. To turn the transceiver on, press and hold in the
switch for one second.
2. To turn the transceiver off, again press and hold
in the switch for one second.
The one-second delay helps you avoid acci-
dental switching on (or off) of DC power.
Supply Voltage Display
When you turn on the transceiver, the DC supply voltage is indi-
cated in the upper left corner of the LCD for two seconds. After
this interval, the display will resume its normal indication of the
operating mode (VFOa, VFOb, or Memory Channel Number).
To view the supply voltage at any time during operation:
1. Press the key momentarily, then rotate the knob to select Operating Function
Row 11* [CHG, VLT, DSP]on the display.
2. Press the (VLT)key momentarily to display the supply voltage in the upper right
corner of the LCD.
3. To cancel the supply voltage display, again press the (VLT)key.
Remember, the Operating Row Number does not appear on the display.
If you have not operated your FT-818 within the past week, we recommend that you
plug in the Battery Charger, and perform a 10 hour (use for PA-48B/C/U) charge cy-
cle, to ensure that the SBR-32MH is ready for operation when you are.
CLAR
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L
S
A B C
F
V
LOCK PWR
SQL/RF
AF
HOME
M
PWR

17
Operation
Operating Band Selection
This transceiver covers an incredibly wide fre-
quency range, over which a number of different
operating modes are used. Therefore, this trans-
ceiver’s frequency coverage has been divided into
different operating bands, each of with has its own
preset channel steps and operating modes. You
can change the channel steps and operating mode once you get started, of course, per
the next section.
To change the frequency band, press either the or key to move
to the next lower or higher operating band, respectively.
1.8 MHz 3.5 MHz 5.0 MHz 7.0 MHz 10 MHz 14 MHz 15 MHz 18 MHz
21 MHz24 MHz28 MHz50 MHz88 MHz108 MHz144 MHz430 MHz
1) Recalling the 5 MHz band (U.S. model) requires different procedure. See page
20 for details.
2) VFOa and VFOb are independent VFOs, so they may be set to different bands.
See the “Stacked VFO System” discussion on page 19 for details.
Mode Selection
Press either the or key to
move among the eight settings for the operating
modes, respectively.
LSB USB CW CWR
AM FM DIG PKT
You can also set VFOa and VFOb to different modes in the same band, allowing you
to have a “Phone” VFO and a “CW” VFO, for example.
Adjusting the Audio Volume Level
Rotate the knob to set a comfortable listen-
ing level.
When operating in the “DIG” or “PKT” modes, you
may set the knob to any comfortable setting,
or even all the way off, because the output from
the DATA jack is a xed-level audio signal.
Start with the knob set fully counter-clockwise, especially when using FM (the
background noise on FM can be surprisingly loud)!
CLAR
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L
S
A B C
F
V
LOCK PWR
SQL/RF
AF
HOME
M
BAND DWN
( )
BAND UP
( )
CLAR
E
L
S
A B C
F
V
LOCK PWR
SQL/RF
AF
HOME
M
MODE 
( )
MODE 
( )
CLAR
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L
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A B C
F
V
LOCK PWR
SQL/RF
AF
HOME
M
AF

18
Operation
Menu Quick Start
Many aspects of this transceiver’s conguration may be customized using the convenient
“Menu” system, which allow you to congure many “set and forget” settings just the way
you want to. A full discussion of the Menu system beings on page 52; for now, here is a
brief discussion on how to change Menu settings:
1. Press and hold in the key for one second to enter the Menu mode.
2. Rotate the knob to recall the Menu item to be changed (for example, Menu #01,
which Enables or Disables the Automatic Repeater Shift on the 144 MHz band).
3. Rotate the knob to set this feature (in this example, the default setting is “ENABLE,”
so rotate the knob to set this feature to “DISABLE”.
4. Press and hold in the key for one second to save the new setting and exit to normal
operation.
If you have momentarily pressed the key to change an operating function, press
the key momentarily again (to clear the function indications for the ,,
keys) before engaging the Menu.
Adjusting the RF Gain and Squelch
The control is congured differently, depending on the country to which the FT-
818 has been exported. In the U.S. version, the
default function of this control is “RF Gain”. The
configuration of the control is set via
Menu #45; see page 61 for details.
If your transceiver is congured for “RF Gain” use,
rotating this control fully clockwise in the SSB/CW/Digital modes will provide best sensi-
tivity. To reduce the receiver’s RF Gain somewhat, rotate this control counter-clockwise
slightly. You will observe an increasing number of bars on the S-meter as you rotate the
control counter-clockwise; this indicates increasing AGC voltage, which is caus-
ing the front-end gain to be reduced. In the FM and Packet modes, this control will auto-
matically be set to an “Auto-Squelch” mode, wherein the FM/Packet squelch threshold is
preset at the factory; the control still acts as an “RF Gain” control, however, and
it normally should be set fully clockwise.
If this control is congured for “SQL” operation, the FT-818’s RF Gain will be set for max-
imum sensitivity in all modes, and the control will function solely as a Squelch
control. In this case, rotate the control to the point where the background noise
is just silenced; this will provide the best sensitivity to weak signals, while keeping the re-
ceiver quiet when no signal is received. The LED just above the Main Dial will glow Green
when the squelch is opened by an incoming signal or noise.
Note: Squelch operation does not function in the FM Broadcast frequencies.
Battery consumption is signicantly reduced if the receiver is squelched, as the au-
dio amplier stage is shut off when the receiver is muted.
CLAR
E
L
S
A B C
F
V
LOCK PWR
SQL/RF
AF
HOME
M
SQL/RF