Yaesu VX-6E User manual

DUAL BAND
HEAVY DUTY SUBMERSIBLE TRANSCEIVER
VX-6E
OPERATING MANUAL
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

Contents
Scanning ..................................................................... 46
VFO Scanning ................................................................................ 47
Setting the Squelch Level during activate Scanning Opertion 48
How to Skip (Omit) a Frequency during VFO Scan ............. 48
Memory Scanning .......................................................................... 49
How to Skip (Omit) a Channel during Memory Scan ........... 49
Preferential Memory Scan ...................................................... 50
Memory Bank Scan ................................................................. 51
Programmable (Band Limit) Memory Scan (PMS) ..................... 52
“Priority Channel” Scanning (Dual Watch) ................................. 53
Automatic Lamp Illumination on Scan Stop ................................ 54
Band Edge Beeper ......................................................................... 54
Weather Alert Scan ........................................................................ 55
Smart Search Operation ........................................... 56
Channel Counter Operation .................................... 58
EPCS (
Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch ) .................. 60
Storing the CTCSS Tone Pairs for EPCS Operation .................... 60
Activating the Enhanced Paging & Code Squelch System ......... 61
Paging Answer Back ..................................................................... 61
Emergency Feature ................................................... 62
Emergency Channel Operation ..................................................... 62
Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) Feature ..................................... 62
Selecting the EAI mode and its Transmit Time .................... 63
Activating the EAI feature ...................................................... 63
To Locate an Unresponsive Operator Using the EAI Feature 64
ARTSTM ( Automatic Range Transponder System ) ...... 65
Sensor Mode ............................................................... 68
To display the Temperature .......................................................... 68
To display the Sensor Information ................................................ 68
Selecting and Correcting the Atmospheric Pressure Meter ........ 69
Selecting and Correcting the Altimeter ........................................ 69
Internet Connection Feature .................................... 70
SRG (“Sister Radio Group”) Mode .............................................. 70
FRG (“Friendly Radio Group”) Mode ......................................... 71
DTMF Operation ...................................................... 73
Manual DTNF Tone Generation ................................................... 73
DTNF Autodialer ........................................................................... 73
CW Training Feature ............................................... 75
Miscellaneous Settings .............................................. 76
Password ........................................................................................ 76
Programming the “P” Key ............................................................ 77
Receive Battery Saver Setup ......................................................... 77
Wakeup Feature Setup ................................................................... 78
TX Battery Saver ........................................................................... 79
ATT (Front End Attenuator) ......................................................... 79
Disabling the TX/BUSY Indicator ............................................... 80
Automatic Power-Off (APO) Feature .......................................... 80
Automatic Power-On Feature ....................................................... 81
Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO) ................................................. 82
Transmitter Time-Out Timer (TOT) ............................................. 83
Changing the TX Deviation Level ................................................ 83
Reset Procedures ....................................................... 85
Cloning ....................................................................... 86
Set (Menu) Mode ....................................................... 87
Specifications ........................................................... 104
“AUTO” Mode Preset Operating Parameters ..... 106
General Description .................................................... 1
Accessories & Options ................................................ 2
Controls & Connections ............................................. 3
Top & Front Panel ............................................................................ 3
LCD ................................................................................................... 4
Side & Bottom Panel ........................................................................ 5
Keypad .............................................................................................. 6
Installation of Accessories .......................................... 8
Antenna Installation .......................................................................... 8
Belt Clip & Hand Strap Installation ................................................ 8
Installation of FNB-80LI Battery Pack ........................................... 9
Battery Charging ............................................................................... 9
Installation of FBA-23 Battery Case ............................................ 10
Low Battery Indication .................................................................. 10
Interface of Packet TNCs ......................................... 11
Operation ................................................................... 12
Switching Power On and Off ........................................................ 12
Adjusting the Volume Level ......................................................... 12
Squelch Adjustment ....................................................................... 13
Selecting the Operating Band ....................................................... 14
Frequency Navigation ................................................................... 14
Transmission .................................................................................. 16
Changing the Transmit Power Level ...................................... 17
Changing the Microphone Gain Level ................................... 18
AM Broadcast Reception .............................................................. 18
AM Aircraft Reception .................................................................. 19
FM Broadcast/TV Audio Reception ............................................. 19
Advanced Operation ................................................. 20
Keyboard Locking ......................................................................... 20
Adjusting the Keypad Beeper Volume Level .............................. 21
Keypad/LCD Illumination ............................................................ 21
Changing the Channel Steps ......................................................... 22
Changing the Receiving Mode ..................................................... 22
RF Squelch ..................................................................................... 23
Checking the Battery Voltage ....................................................... 23
Repeater Operation ................................................... 24
Repeater Shifts ............................................................................... 24
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS) .................................................. 24
Manual Repeater Shift Activation ................................................ 25
CTCSS/DCS Operation ............................................ 27
CTCSS Operation .......................................................................... 27
DCS Operation ............................................................................... 28
DCS Code Inversion ...................................................................... 29
CTCSS/DCS Bell Operation ......................................................... 30
Tone Search Scanning ................................................................... 31
Split Tone Operation ..................................................................... 32
Tone Calling (1750 Hz) ................................................................. 32
Memory Mode ........................................................... 33
Memory Storage ............................................................................ 34
Storing Independent Transmit Frequencies (“Odd Split”) .......... 34
Memory Recall .............................................................................. 35
Labeling Memories ........................................................................ 35
Memory Offset Tuning .................................................................. 37
Moving Memory Data to the VFO ............................................... 38
Masking Memories ........................................................................ 38
Memory Only Mode ...................................................................... 38
HOME Channel Memory .............................................................. 39
Memory Bank Operation ............................................................... 40
Direct Memory Recall Channel .................................................... 42
Short-Wave Broadcast Station Memory Channels ...................... 43
Weather Broadcast Channels ........................................................ 44
VHF-Marine Channels .................................................................. 45

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 1
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The VX-6E is a dual band heavy duty submersibleÚtransceiver with extensive receive
frequency coverage, providing local-area two-way amateur communications along with
unmatched monitoring capability.
The VX-6E’s 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 en-
joyment. Its incredibly compact FNB-80LI Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Pack pro-
vides up to 5 Watts of transmit power on 144 MHz and 430 MHz Amateur Bands. Besides
144- and 430-MHz transceive operation, the VX-6E provides receive coverage of the AM
(MF) 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!
New and exciting features of the VX-6E are the Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) function,
that will automatically cause your VX-6E to transmit your callsign and engage your rig’s
microphone, even if you are disabled and unable to press the PTT switch; Enhanced
Paging and Code Squelch (EPCS), that allows you to page a particular station and only
receive calls from that station, if desired; and a security Password feature, that will allow
you to turn on and operate your transceiver only after you enter your Password.
Additional features include a convenient access key for Vertex Standard’s
WIRES™ (Wide-coverage Internet Repeater Enhancement System), a trans-
mit Time-Out Timer (TOT), Automatic Power-Off (APO), Automatic Repeater
Shift (ARS), Yaesu’s exclusive ARTS™ (Auto-Range Tran-
sponder System) which “beeps” the user when you move out
of communications range with another ARTS™ equipped sta-
tion, plus provision for reduction of the TX deviation in areas
of high channel congestion. And an RF squelch circuit allows
the owner to set the squelch to open at a programmable set-
ting of the S-Meter, thus reducing guesswork in setting the
squelch threshold.
We appreciate your purchase of the VX-6E, 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!
Ú: IPX7 Specification for submersibility:
3 ft. for 30 minutes
This transceiver works on frequencies which
are not generally permitted.
As for the actual usage, the user has to pos-
sess an amateur radio licence.
Usage is allowed only in the frequency bands
which are allocated for amateur radios.
List of the practicable area
AUT BEL CYP CZE DNK
EST FIN FRA DEU GRC
HUN ISL IRL ITA LVA
LIE LTU LUX MLT NLD
NOR POL PRT SVK SVN
ESP SWE CHE GBR -
Attention in case of use

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL2
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES
FNB-80LI 7.4 V, 1,400 mAh
Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Pack
NC-72C/UÚ5-Hour Battery Charger
CLIP-14 Quick Draw Belt Clip
YHA-67 Antenna
Operating Manual
Warranty Card
AVAILABLE OPTIONS
FNB-80LI 7.4 V, 1,400 mAh
Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery Pack
FBA-23 2 x “AA” Cell Battery Case (batteries not supplied)
CD-15A Rapid Charger (requires NC-72B/C/U)
NC-72B/C/UÚ5-Hour Battery Charger
E-DC-5B DC Cable with Cigarette-Lighter Adapter
E-DC-6 DC Cable; plug and wire only
MH-57A4B Speaker/Microphone
CMP460A Waterproof Speaker/Microphone
VC-24 VOX Headset
VC-27 Ear piece/Microphone
CT-91 Microphone Adapter
CN-3 BNC-to-SMA Adapter
SU-1 Barometric Pressure Sensor Unit
CSC-91 Soft Case
Ú:“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. This product is designed
to perform optimally when used with genuine Yaesu accessories. Vertex Standard shall
not be liable for any damage to this product and/or accidents such as fire, leakage or
explosion of a battery pack, etc., caused by the malfunction of non-Yaesu accessories.
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.
ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 3
cAntenna Jack
Connect the supplied rubber flex antenna (or another
antenna presenting a 50-Ohm impedance) here.
dMIC/SP Jack
This four-conductor miniature jack provides connec-
tion points for microphone audio, earphone audio, PTT,
and ground.
Do not allow the VX-6E to become submerged in water while the plastic
cover over the MIC/SP jack is removed.
eVOL Knob
This control adjusts the audio volume level. Clockwise rotation increases the volume
level.
fDIAL Knob
This (inner) 20-position detented rotary switch is used for setting the operating fre-
quency, and also is used for menu selections and other adjustments.
gLCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
The display shows current operating conditions, as indicated on the next page.
hPOWER Switch
Press and hold in this switch for one second to
toggle the transceiver’s power on and off.
iKeypad
These 18 keys select many of most im-
portant operating features on the VX-6E.
The functions of the keys are described
in detail on the pages to follow.
jMicrophone
The internal microphone is located here.
kSpeaker
The internal speaker is located here.
lTX/BUSY Indicator Lamp
This indicator glows green when the squelch opens, and turns red during transmit.
During “Emergency Channel” operation (see page 62), this indicator will glow (or
flash) white. Also, this indicator can be useful as a flashlight in a dark environment
via Set Mode Item 34: LED LTLED LT
LED LTLED LT
LED LT; see page 96 for details.
CONTROL & CONNECTIONS (TOP & FRONT PANEL)
cd fe
h
i
j
k
l
g

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL4
CONTROL & CONNECTIONS (LCD)
S- & PO Meter
Secondary Keypad Active
Key Lock Active
Operating Mode
Emergency Automatic ID (EAI) Feature Active
Battery Saver Active
Battery Indicator
Low TX Power Selected Bell Alarm Active
Automatic Power-Off Active
Dual Watch Active
Operating Frequency
Memory Channel Number
Skip Memory Channel or
Preferential Memory Channel
Repeater Shift Direction
CTCSS/DSC Operation
Internet Connection
Feature Active
Priority Channel
DMR Channel Recall

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 5
cPTT (Push To Talk) Switch
Press this switch to transmit, and
release it (to receive) after your
transmission is completed.
dT-CALL Switch
Pressing this switch activates the
T-CALL (1750 Hz) for repeater
access.
eEXT DC Jack
This coaxial DC jack allows con-
nection to an external DC power
source (6-16V DC). The center pin
of this jack is the Positive (+) con-
nection.
Do not allow the VX-6E to become submerged in water while the rubber
cap over the EXT DC jack is removed.
fBattery Pack Latch
Open this latch for battery removal.
CONTROL & CONNECTIONS (SIDE & BOTTOM PANEL)
c
de
f

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL6
CONTROL & CONNECTIONS (KEYPAD)
Third Function
(PRESS & HOLD KEY)
Secondary Function
(PRESS [F/W]+ KEY)
Primary Function
(PRESS KEY)
Third Function
(PRESS & HOLD KEY)
Secondary Function
(PRESS [F/W]+ KEY)
Primary Function
(PRESS KEY)
Frequency entry digit
“1”
Frequency entry digit
“2”
Selects the CTCSS
tone or DCS code
number
Frequency entry digit
“4”
Activates the EMER-
GENCY function
Frequency entry digit
“5”
Activates the EPCS
(Enhanced Paging &
Code Squelch) feature
Selects the Memory
Scan “Skip” channel-
selection mode
Third Function
(PRESS & HOLD KEY)
Secondary Function
(PRESS [F/W]+ KEY)
Primary Function
(PRESS KEY)
Moves operation to the
next-highest frequency
band
Moves operation to the
next-lowest frequency
band
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “1”
Frequency entry digit
“8”
Frequency entry digit
“7”
Selects the synthesizer
steps to be used during
VFO operation.
Activates the ARTSTM
feature
Activates the EAITM
(Emergency Automatic
ID) feature
Selects the desired
transmit power output
level
Activates the Key
Lockout feature
Reverses the transmit
and receive frequencies
while working through a
repeater
Switches to the “Home”
(favorite frequency)
Channel
Activates the Internet
Connection feature
Starts the scanner
upward
(toward a higher
frequency or
a higher channel number)
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “2”
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “4”
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “5”
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “7”
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “8”

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 7
Activates CTCSS or
DCS Operation
Selects the direction of
the uplink frequency
shift (either “–,” “+,” or
“simplex”) during
repeater operation
Third Function
(PRESS & HOLD KEY)
Secondary Function
(PRESS [F/W]+ KEY)
Primary Function
(PRESS KEY)
Third Function
(PRESS & HOLD KEY)
Secondary Function
(PRESS [F/W]+ KEY)
Primary Function
(PRESS KEY)
Third Function
(PRESS & HOLD KEY)
Secondary Function
(PRESS [F/W]+ KEY)
Primary Function
(PRESS KEY)
Frequency entry digit
“3”
Frequency entry digit
“6”
Frequency entry digit
“9”
Frequency entry digit
“0”
Selects the Receive
mode among AM, FM,
and Wide FM
Selects the DTMF
mode
Engage the Special
Search mode
Switches frequency
control between the
VFO and Memory
Systems
Activates the Priority
(Dual Watch) function
Engages the Set
(Menu) Mode
Enter the Special Bank
mode
Activates the “Second-
ary” key function
Disables the “Second-
ary” key function
Activates the “Memory
Write” mode (for
memory channel
storage)
Activates the “Memory
Tune” mode while in the
Memory Recall mode
Activates the “User
Programmed” mode
No Action
Activates the Direct
Memory Recall
Channel function
CONTROL & CONNECTIONS (KEYPAD)
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “3”
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “6”
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “9”
Stores the current
setting into Direct
Memory Recall
Channel “0”

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL8
ANTENNA INSTALLATION
The supplied antenna provides good results over the entire fre-
quency range of the transceiver. However, for enhanced recep-
tion on certain non-Amateur frequencies, you may wish to con-
nect an antenna designed specifically for that frequency range,
as the supplied antenna is necessarily a compromise outside
the Amateur bands, and cannot be expected to provide high
performance at all frequencies.
To install the supplied antenna, hold the bottom end of the an-
tenna, then screw it onto the mating connector 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 up-
per 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.
BELT CLIP & HAND STRAP INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 9
INSTALLATION OF FNB-80LI BATTERY PACK
The FNB-80LI is a high-performance Lithium-Ion battery providing high capacity in a
very compact package. Under normal use, the FNB-80LI 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.
Install the FNB-80LI as shown in the illustration.
Close the Battery Pack Latch on the bottom of the radio.
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES
NC-72
AC line Outlet
E-DC-5B E-DC-6
1) Do not attempt to open any of the rechargeable Li-Ion packs, as personal
injury or damage to the Li-Ion pack could occur if a cell or cells become acci-
dentally short-circuited.
2) Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or
equivalent type.
CAUTION
Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or
equivalent type.
BATTERY CHARGING
If the battery has never been used, or its charge is depleted, it may be charged by connect-
ing the NC-72 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-5B or E-DC-6 DC Adapter (with
its cigarette lighter plug) may also be used for charging the battery.
The display will indicate “CHGINGCHGING
CHGINGCHGING
CHGING,” and the TX/BUSY indicator will glow red, while
the battery is being charged. When charging is finished, the display will change to indicate
“CHGFULCHGFUL
CHGFULCHGFUL
CHGFUL” and the TX/BUSY indicator will glow green.

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL10
INSTALLATION OF FBA-23 ALKALINE BATTERY CASE (OPTION)
The optional FBA-23 Battery Case allows receive monitoring using two “AA” size Alka-
line batteries. Alkaline batteries can also be used for transmission in an emergency, but
power output will only be selectable 300 mW and 50 mW, and battery life will be short-
ened dramatically.
To Install Alkaline Batteries into the FBA-23
Slide the batteries into the FBA-23 as shown in the illustration,
with the Negative [–] side of the batteries touching the spring
connections inside the FBA-23.
Open the Battery Pack Latch on the bottom of the radio.
Install the FBA-23 as shown in the illustration, with the [+] side
facing the bottom of the transceiver.
Close the Battery Pack Latch on the bottom of the radio.
The FBA-23 does not provide connections for charging, since Alkaline cells cannot be
re-charged. Therefore, the NC-72, E-DC-5B, or E-DC-6 may safely be connected to the
EXT DC jack when the FBA-23 is installed.
1) The FBA-23 is designed for use only with AA-type Alkaline cells.
2) If you do not use the VX-6E for a long time, remove the Alkaline batteries
from the FBA-23, as battery leakage could cause damage to the FBA-23 and/or the
transceiver.
LOW BATTERY INDICATION
As your battery discharges during use, the voltage will gradually become lower. When
the battery voltage is becoming too low for reliable operation,
the “ ” icon will blink on the LCD display, indicating that the
battery pack must be recharged before further use.
Avoid recharging Lithium-Ion batteries before the “ ” indicator is observed, as
this can degrade the charge capacity of your Lithium-Ion battery pack.
INSTALLATION OF ACCESSORIES

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 11
The VX-6E may be used for Packet operation, using the optional CT-91 microphone
adapter (available from your Yaesu dealer) for easy interconnection to commonly-avail-
able 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 using the VOL knob, as
with voice operation. The input level to the VX-6E from the TNC may be adjusted via Set
Mode Item 37: MCGAINMCGAIN
MCGAINMCGAIN
MCGAIN; see page 18 for details.
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 77 for details regarding Receive Battery
Saver setup. Remember to readjust the default microphone input level to “LVL 5LVL 5
LVL 5LVL 5
LVL 5” (Set
Mode Item 37: MCGAINMCGAIN
MCGAINMCGAIN
MCGAIN) when Packet operation is finished.
INTERFACE OF PACKET TNCS

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL12
Hi! I’m R. F. Radio, and I’ll be helping you along as you learn the many
features of the VX-6E. I know you’re anxious to get on the air, but I encour-
age 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 ONAND OFF
1. Be sure the Battery Pack is installed, and that the bat-
tery is fully charged. Connect the antenna to the top
panel ANTENNA jack.
2. Press and hold in the orange POWER switch (on the
left side of the front panel) for one second. Two beeps
will be heard when the switch has been held long
enough, and the current DC supply voltage will indi-
cated on the display for 2 seconds; if you are using the FNB-80LI Battery Pack, the
small “Lit” notation 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 nor-
mal indication of the operating frequency.
3. To turn the VX-6E off, press and hold in the POWER switch again for one second.
1) If you don’t hear the two “Beep” tones when the radio comes on, the
Beeper may have been disabled via the Menu system. See page 21, 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 characters) via Set Mode Item 42: OPN.MSG; see page 48 for details.
ADJUSTING THE VOLUME LEVEL
Rotate the VOLUME control (inner knob) to set the de-
sired audio level. Clockwise rotation increases the volume
level.
OPERATION

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 13
OPERATION
SQUELCH ADJUSTMENT
The VX-6E’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 pleas-
ant, it also significantly reduces battery current consumption.
The Squelch system may be adjusted independently for the FM and Wide-FM (FM Broad-
cast) modes. AM utilizes the setting chosen for FM.
1. Press the [F/W]key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 58: SQLSQL
SQLSQL
SQL.
3. Now, rotate the DIAL knob to set the Squelch so that the background noise is just
silenced (typically at a setting of about “11
11
1” or “22
22
2” for FM and AM, and “22
22
2” or “33
33
3”
for Wide-FM); this is point of maximum sensitivity to weak signals.
4. When you are satisfied with the Squelch threshold setting, press the PTT key momen-
tarily to save the new setting and exit to normal operation.
1) A special “RF Squelch” feature is provided on the VX-6E. This feature
allows you to set the squelch so that only signals exceeding a certain S-meter
level will open the squelch. See page 23 for details.
2) 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 ra-
dio 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-6E has, try using that mode for silent monitoring of busy
channels.

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL14
SELECTING THE OPERATING BAND
The VX-6E covers an incredibly wide frequency
range, over which a number of different operat-
ing modes are used. Therefore, the VX-6E’s fre-
quency coverage has been divided into differ-
ent 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 22).
To Change Operating Bands:
1. Press the [BAND(SCN)BND DN]key repetitively. You will see the LCD indication
move toward a higher frequency band each time you
press the [BAND(SCN)BND DN]key.
2. If you wish to move the operating band selection down-
ward (toward lower frequencies), press the [F/W]key
first, then press the [BAND(SCN)BND DN]key.
3. Once you have selected the desired band, you may ini-
tiate manual tuning (or scanning) per the discussion in
the next chapter.
When receiving in the AM Broadcast or Shortwave bands (0.5-30 MHz), we recom-
mend that you connect an external antenna, for improved reception.
FREQUENCY NAVIGATION
The VX-6E will initially be operating in the “VFO” mode, a channelized system which
allows free tuning throughout the currently-selected operating band.
Three basic frequency navigation methods are available on the VX-6E:
1)Tuning Dial
Rotation of the DIAL allows tuning in the pre-programmed steps established for the cur-
rent operating band. Clockwise rotation of the DIAL causes
the VX-6E to be tuned toward a higher frequency, while
counter-clockwise rotation will lower the operating fre-
quency.
If you press the [F/W]key momentarily, then rotate the
DIAL, frequency steps of 1 MHz will be selected. This fea-
ture is extremely useful for making rapid frequency excur-
sions over the wide tuning range of the VX-6E.
OPERATION
BAND [BAND NUMBER]FREQUENCY RANGE
BC Band [1]0.504 - 1.8 MHz
SW Band [2]1.8 - 30 MHz
50 MHz Ham Band [3]30 - 88 MHz
FM BC Band [4]88 - 108 MHz
Air Band [5]108 - 137 MHz
144 MHz Ham Band [6]137 - 174 MHz
VHF-TV Band [7]174 - 222 MHz
Action Band 1 [8]222 - 420 MHz
430 MHz Ham Band [9]420 - 470 MHz
UHF-TV Band [A]470 - 800 MHz
Action Band 2 [b]800 - 999 MHz

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 15
2)Direct Keypad Frequency Entry
The desired operating frequency may be entered directly from the keypad.
To enter a frequency from the keypad, just press the numbered digits on the keypad in the
proper sequence. There is no “Decimal point” key on the VX-6E, so if the frequency is
below 100 MHz (e.g. 15.150 MHz), any required leading zeroes must be entered. How-
ever, there is a short-cut for frequencies ending in zero - press the [V/M(DW)MT]key
after the last non-zero digit.
Examples:To enter 146.520 MHz, press [1]Æ[4]Æ[6]Æ[5]Æ[6]Æ[0]
To enter 15.255 MHz, press [0]Æ[1]Æ[5]Æ[2]Æ[5]Æ[5]
To enter 1.250 MHz (1250 kHz), press [0]Æ[0]Æ[1]Æ[2]Æ[5]Æ[0]
To enter 0.950 MHz (950 kHz), press [0]Æ[0]Æ[0]Æ[9]Æ[5]Æ[0]
To enter 430.000MHz, press [4]Æ[3]Æ[V/M(DW)MT]
3)Scanning
From the VFO mode, press and hold in the [BAND(SCN)BND DN]key for one second,
and rotate the DIAL knob while holding in the
[BAND(SCN)BND DN]key, to select the bandwidth for
the VFO scanner, then release the [BAND(SCN)BND DN]
key to begin scanning toward a higher frequency. The scan-
ner will stop when it receives a signal strong enough to break
through the Squelch threshold. The VX-6E will then hold on
that frequency according to the setting of the “RESUME”
mode (Set Mode Item 48: RESUMERESUME
RESUMERESUME
RESUME). See page 46 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 one click in the counter-clockwise direction while
the VX-6E is scanning. The scanning direction will be reversed. To revert to scanning
toward a higher frequency once more, rotate the DIAL 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-6E may receive very strong signals on the Image frequency. If you expe-
rience 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(nis an integer: 1, 2, 3, …)
OPERATION
FREQUENCY NAVIGATION

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL16
TRANSMISSION
Once you have set up an appropriate frequency inside one of the 144 MHz, or 430 MHz
Amateur bands on which the VX-6E 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.
1. To transmit, press the PTT switch, and speak into the
front panel microphone (located in the upper right-hand
corner of the speaker grille) in a normal voice level.
The TX/BUSY indicator will glow red during trans-
mission.
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 three bars indicates “Low 1 Power” operation. Five bars indi-
cates “Low 2 Power” operation and seven bars indicates “Low 3
Power” operation. Additionally, the “LOW” icon will appear at
the bottom of the display while operating on the “Low Power”
settings.
1) If you’re just talking to friends in the immediate area,
you’ll get much longer battery life by switching to Low
Power operation, described in the next chapter. And don’t
forget: always have an antenna connected when you transmit.
2) Transmission is possible only on the 144 MHz, and 430 MHz
bands.
3) If other users report that you always have a DTMF “beep” at
the beginning of each transmission, you may have accidentally
switched on the “Internet Connection” feature. Just press the [ (LK)TXPO] key mo-
mentarily to disable this feature, which is described in detail on page 70.
OPERATION
“LOW 1” POWER
“LOW 2” POWER
“LOW 3” POWER
“HIGH” POWER

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL 17
Changing the Transmitter Power Level
You can select between a total of four transmitter power levels on
your VX-6E. The exact power output will vary somewhat, depend-
ing on the voltage supplied to the transceiver. With the standard
FNB-80LI Battery Pack and external DC source, the power output
levels available are:
To change the power level:
1. The default setting for the power output is “High;” in
this configuration, the LCD shows
no indication of the power output
level. Pressing the [F/W]key, fol-
lowed by the [ (LK)TXPO]key,
will display the current power out-
put level.
2. Within one second of releasing the [ (LK)TXPO]key, press the [ (LK)TXPO]
key repetitively; this will cause the power level “LOW1LOW1
LOW1LOW1
LOW1,” “LOW2LOW2
LOW2LOW2
LOW2,” or “LOW3LOW3
LOW3LOW3
LOW3” to
appear.
3. Press the [F/W]key, followed by the [ (LK)TXPO]key (repeatedly, if necessary) to
make the “HIGHHIGH
HIGHHIGH
HIGH” notation appear and restore High Power operation.
1) The VX-6E is smart! You can set up Low power on the 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 the power output 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 settings, you can press the [F/W] key,
then press the PTT switch, to cause the VX-6E to transmit (temporarily) on High power.
After one transmission, the power level will revert to the previously-selected setting.
3) When the power supply voltage is 14-volt or above, reduce the transmit power to
“Low 3” level automatically.
OPERATION
TRANSMISSION
5.0 W
2.5 W
1.0 W
0.3 W
HIGH
LOW 3
LOW 2
LOW 1

VX-6E OPERATING MANUAL18
Changing the Microphone Gain Level
Different operators speak at different voice levels, and speak at varying distances from the
radio’s microphone. So as to compensate for these differences, the VX-6E includes a
Microphone Gain control, that allows you to set the Microphone Gain to the best level
according to your operating preferences. Here’s how to set the level:
1. Press the [F/W]key, then press the [0(SET)] key to enter the Set mode.
2. Rotate the DIAL knob to select Set Mode Item 37: MCGAINMCGAIN
MCGAINMCGAIN
MCGAIN.
3. Press the [0(SET)] key momentarily to enable adjustment of
this Set Mode Item.
4. Rotate the DIAL knob to set the gain to a different level. The
default setting is “LVL 5LVL 5
LVL 5LVL 5
LVL 5;” if you wish to reduce the level, try a
setting or “LVL 3LVL 3
LVL 3LVL 3
LVL 3” or “LVL 4LVL 4
LVL 4LVL 4
LVL 4” while transmitting and speaking
into the microphone; you can hear the effects by monitoring on another radio tuned to
your operating frequency.
5. When you have made your selection, press and hold in the [0(SET)] key for 2 sec-
onds to save the new setting and exit to normal operation
AM BROADCAST RECEPTION
The VX-6E includes provision for reception of AM broadcasts, either on the standard
medium-wave (MW) broadcast band, or on the shortwave bands up to 30 MHz.
1. Press the [BAND(SCN)BND DN]key (or press the [F/W]key, followed by the
[BAND(SCN)BND DN]key) repetitively until you see a frequency in the frequency
range desired. The MW coverage is 0.5 MHz to 1.8 MHz, while the shortwave broad-
cast coverage is 1.8 MHz to 30 MHz. In either case, the operat-
ing mode (displayed on the bottom left of the LCD) should be
shown as being “AMAM
AMAM
AM.”
2. Rotate the DIAL to tune across the broadcast band.
3. You may also use the keypad to enter frequencies directly. This method will be quicker
for changing from the 49-meter broadcast band to the 31-meter band, for example.
1) If the operating mode is not correct, you may change the operating mode
by pressing the [MODE(SP S)SQ TYP] key.
2) The VX-6E includes a special memory bank into which the factory has
stored 89 frequencies representing popular Short-wave Broadcast stations. See page 43
for details.
OPERATION
TRANSMISSION