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How to build a lightweight amplifier that can be backpacked around.

QRG_DB is a database for the Palm OS computer to control a Yaesu FT-817 Transceiver via the CAT interface

This Arduino library allow you to control various functions of Yaesu FT-857 through the use of CAT functions. This may work even with FT-817 and FT-897.

Coupling the Duracell DR36 battery to the FT 817 The main advantages on this system are, the weight, size, quick battery changing and no stress to the FT 817 power connector

Operating on the 2200m band (135.7-137.8 kHz) often presents challenges for amateur radio transceivers, which typically exhibit poor receiver performance at these very low frequencies. This project addresses the issue by providing a design for a dedicated 137 kHz antenna preamplifier, specifically tailored to improve signal reception for radios such as the _Yaesu FT-817_. The preamplifier circuit utilizes a low-noise FET input stage, crucial for minimizing self-generated noise and maximizing the signal-to-noise ratio from weak LF signals. The design includes a detailed schematic, component values, and construction notes, enabling homebrewers to build a functional unit. The goal is to achieve significant gain, making the faint signals on 2200m more discernible and improving overall band usability. Key design considerations include impedance matching to typical antenna systems and ensuring stable operation across the narrow LF segment. The circuit aims for a **low noise figure** and sufficient amplification to overcome the inherent limitations of general-purpose HF transceivers when operating below **200 kHz**.

A schematic for a DX circuit protection for the Yaesu FT-817, provides protection from the external power supply overvoltage by DL2LTO in german

An example of how to control a Yaesu FT-817 with an Arduino to make a multi-band CW beacon.

Collection of accessories that makes the Yaesu FT-817 more enjoyable.

The antenna was built to be used for shortwave listening with a Tecsun PL-660 radio receiver. Later it was used with Yaesu VX-6 handheld transceiver and with Yaesu FT-817ND for shortwave listening.

Demonstrates the operational status and reception reports for the SK6RUD/SA6RR QRPP beacons, which transmit on 478.9 kHz, 1995 kHz, 10.131 MHz, and 40.673 MHz. These beacons utilize extremely low power, with the 630-meter beacon operating at approximately 0.1 watt ERP into an L-antenna, showcasing the potential for long-distance contacts under favorable propagation conditions. The site details the specific frequencies and antenna types employed, such as a vertical at 500 kHz and a 1/4 vertical for higher bands. The resource compiles over 10,530 reception reports from amateur radio operators worldwide, logging details such as date, time, band, RST signal report, locator, distance, and receiver setup. Notable long-distance reports include a 500 kHz reception by AA1A-Dave from 5832 km in 2008 and a 10.133 MHz reception by ZL2FT-Jason from 17680 km in 2010, illustrating the global reach of these low-power transmissions. Each log entry provides specific equipment used by the reporting station, including transceivers like the Yaesu FT817, ICOM IC-7300, and various antenna configurations such as coaxial mag loops, inverted Ls, and end-fed wires. The primary objective of the SK6RUD beacons is to challenge conventional notions of power requirements for effective two-way communication, proving that contacts over significant distances are achievable with minimal output. The site also includes a submission form for new reception reports, fostering community engagement and continuous data collection on propagation phenomena across different bands. The detailed logs offer practical insights into real-world propagation characteristics and the efficacy of QRPP operations.

A site dedicated to the Yaesu FT-817 and FT-817nd, The great little transceiver made by Yaesu. A web site full of FT-817 videos and articles

A personal review about the Yaesu FT-817

An operating stand out of wood for the FT-817

Comparison of FT-1000D FT-736R FT-817 FT-847 FT-897 IC-765 Orion TS-2000 Spectral purity of a continous carrier, of a SSB and CW signals

CAT and Digital modes interface for the Yaesu FT-817

Yaesu FT817 all band, all mode handheld transceiver article.

Attenuating output power to Yaesu FT-817 and interesting article for really QRP operations by PA1B

This project is an interface box for the Yaesu FT-817 that includes a band output port, a computer serial interface, and a remote interface for the FL-7000 solid state power amplifiers.

With the bluecat interface it is possibile to connect a Yaesu FT 817 857 897 to a computer or a android smartphone without any cable or interface, using a bluetooth wireless connection

Adapting a Wouxun/Kenwood USB cable as a Yaesu FT-817 FT-857 FT-897 CAT connection

Yaesu FT-817 noise blanker improvement

A modification to improve quality of built-in FT-817 Noise Blanker

An HF 10-20m portable RF power amplifier based on the RD16HHF1 FETS giving 25 W.

A small (FT-817) I.F. radio driving a 100w transverter with a 1db nf front end.

Yaesu FL-110 160-10m HF linear ampflifier as ideal power amp for the FT-817 by N2CHK

Documents the construction of a **VHF/UHF** antenna addition for the Buddipole HF antenna system, leveraging the existing Versa-Tee component. The project details the fabrication of a custom antenna mount from angle aluminum, including specific drilling and tapping for 3/16"-24 bolts, and the creation of radials from Simpson Strong Tie Insulation Supports. It specifies radial lengths for 70 centimeters (6 inches from the center stud) and 2 meters (19 1/4 inches), noting the use of wire nuts for safety. The resource outlines the construction of a mast from 1/2" ID PVC conduit, connected with 3/8"-24 connecting nuts and bolts, mirroring the Buddipole's modular design. It describes the integration of a mobile dual-band antenna with a 3/8"-24 mounting stud and the custom coax setup with BNC and **PL-259** connectors. Field testing with an FT-817ND and a separate dual-band SWR meter confirmed good SWR on both 2 meters and the 440-450 MHz section of 70 centimeters, with positive reception reports during Field Day activities. Further, the article describes the creation of a custom carrying solution, including a 22-inch tripod bag and a fabric roll-up, to emulate the portability of the original Buddipole system.

The **Escort** series Tactical Carrying System provides robust protection and enhanced portability for popular HF transceivers, addressing the need for secure field operation and transport. These systems, designed for models such as the Yaesu FT-857D/891, FT-991, FT-817/818ND, and Icom IC-706/703/7000, IC-7300, feature military-grade construction with front panel protection and versatile carrying strap attachment points. Operators can confidently deploy their rigs in various environments, from SOTA activations to casual field days, knowing their equipment is safeguarded against bumps and impacts. Beyond tactical carriers, Portable Zero LLC also produces the **Sherpa Pack** for the Yaesu FT-817 and the Field Power 12 and Field Power 3 Battery Cases. These accessories complement portable operations by providing essential power solutions and additional carrying options, facilitating extended off-grid activity. Established no later than 2013, Portable Zero LLC manufactures its products in the USA, leveraging CAD design and CNC precision laser cutting for consistent quality. The company's commitment to enhancing portable amateur radio operations is evident in its specialized product line, available in finishes like Black Texture and OD Green.

Some observations on the Yaesu FT-817 5W portable HF VHF UHF transceiver with some pictures and movies

Noise canceling DSP for ham radio good for Icom, Yaeu, Kenwood and any kind of radio

Current consumption of the Yaesu FT-817

Operating a QRP station in frigid conditions presents unique challenges, particularly concerning power management and equipment reliability. This resource outlines a specific winter portable configuration, focusing on maintaining operational capability when temperatures drop significantly. It details the use of a _Yaesu FT-817ND_ for digital QRP modes, paired with a _Raspberry Pi_ for digital signal processing and logging, demonstrating a practical approach to cold-weather field communications. The article provides insights into selecting appropriate power sources, such as LiFePO4 batteries, and managing their performance in sub-zero environments. It also covers shelter considerations, including tent selection and heating strategies, crucial for operator comfort and equipment protection during extended activations. The author, _OH8STN_, shares firsthand experience from Arctic Circle operations, emphasizing robust gear choices. Further content includes a video walkthrough, illustrating the physical setup of the station, antenna deployment, and the overall operational workflow in a winterized environment. This visual aid complements the written text, offering a comprehensive view of the entire portable station, from the transceiver to the power system and the protective shelter.

Articles and review on the Yaesu FT 817 by OZ9AEC

QRP Operations by RV3APM

FT-817 Information & answers to common questions including widebanding

A Rig control CAT interface schematic suitable for both the Yaesu FT-817 and FT-100 transceivers.

A 15-pin data switch, typically a rotary-knob type designed for DB-25 connectors, forms the basis for this microphone selector project. The resource details the conversion process, which involves replacing the original DB-25 connectors with **RJ-45** or **RJ-12** jacks to accommodate modern amateur radio microphones. It specifically addresses wiring for radios like the Icom IC-706 series (including the IC-7000 and IC-703) and Yaesu transceivers such as the FT-857, FT-897, FT-817, FT-7800, FT-7900, FT-8800, FT-8900, FTM-100, and FTM-400. The design ensures all microphone lines are switched straight through, with separate contacts for external speaker/headphone jacks, allowing simultaneous switching. The project emphasizes the practical application of switching between a headset for net control and a hand mic for rag-chewing without repeatedly plugging and unplugging cables. It highlights modifications to the original concept, such as eliminating a separate PTT jack by integrating PTT into headset cables and building the external speaker cable directly into the selector. The article provides guidance on managing the non-color-coded wiring often found in these data switches by soldering wires one by one from old to new connectors, ensuring correct pin alignment. This approach simplifies the conversion, making it accessible for hams seeking a functional and cost-effective mic switching solution.

Direct experience of portable operations of the FT-817 transceiver by Yaesu and the small power amplifier by RM Italy with 300W output

The ZS1J/B beacon operates on 28.2025 MHz with 5 Watts output to a half-wave, end-fed vertical antenna, initially installed in 1977 as ZS5VHF near Durban. The 10-meter transmitter is a modified 23-channel CB radio, and the identification keyer uses a diode matrix unit with TTL ICs from the same era. After relocation to Plettenberg Bay in 1993, the beacon has been in continuous service, with additional QRP transmitters later installed for other bands. In 1994, a single-transistor, 80-meter, 0.5-watt QRP transmitter with a half-wave dipole was added on 3586 kHz, followed by a 160-meter, 0.5-watt unit on 1817 kHz. A 30-meter, 0.5-watt transmitter was installed in 1996, operating on 10.124 MHz. In 2002, a 40-meter QRRP beacon on 7029 kHz, with an output of 100 microwatts, achieved DX reports up to 1100 km from ZS6UT in Pretoria. Best DX reports for the 80m and 160m beacons came from 9J2BO.

Interface board was for connecting Yaesu FT-817ND transceiver to Android phone or tablet. The board was developed for experimenting with RTTY, SSTV and other digital modes using DroidRTTY, DroidSSTV and other software on an Android phone.

A Java multiplatform application used to find EEPROM locations for different radio settings. a very simple to use multi-platform Java application which can be used to find EEPROM locations for different transceiver settings. This information can then be used to send the right CAT commands to configure the radio remotely. Use this application on your own risk.

A very small receiver converter that can be plugged to the backside of the battery powered portable transceiver FT817 from Yaesu. A high performance receiver for 2.3GHz amateur radio signal

DC plug adaptor using an XT60 connector. 18650 Lithium battery 3 cell carrier, Three band end fed half wave antenna, XT60 chassis mounted flange.

A simplified operating guide for the Yaesu FT-817

Three cell Lipo batteries for the FT-817 work really well, although not really sure about taking them on aircraft. The Lipos intended for use on RC Electric airplanes generally have a very low internal resistance and no internal protection against short circuit.

Reflected power and VSWR Metering on Yaesu FT-817, and proper interpretation of real values. The power output meter it is a relative indicator of the antenna match that the radio is experiencing. Reference table and how correctly read the values of the Yaesu internal meter.

This construction project is for anyone wanting to give this popular little radio a voice of its own. This Speech synthesiser reads out the current frequency, mode and menu settings whenever they are changed via the front-panel controls

The GAWANT Antenna, or Shinagawa Antenna is an half-wave vertical end-fed in a FT817-friendly package

Paul McMahon presents a compact VSWR meter designed for QRP portable use, ideal for SOTA operations with rigs like the FT817. The device, constructed from readily available components, employs a simple resistive bridge for wideband performance from 1.8MHz to 52MHz, with diminishing accuracy at higher frequencies. Key features include no need for external power, simple calibration, and operation with low power levels. The design, detailed with parts lists, schematics, and construction guidelines, ensures a 2:1 worst-case VSWR to protect transceivers during antenna matching. Calibration points are set for accurate VSWR readings at various loads.

Original HF magnetic loop antenna designed by the author to work in conjunction with QRP transceivers like the FT-817 in portable operations. In this configuration the loop can operate from 30 to 10 meters. Using a two spires radiator of the same diameter it also covers 40 meters.

One of the interesting features of the FT-817 is that many of the conventional calibration settings that would have, in the past, been done using manual adjustments of coils, capacitors, and potentiometers, are done via software.