The FT817 is a new handheld/ transportable successor to the world famous FT690, 290 and 790 range. The FT290 must be the most popular multimode handheld ever made.

Now, the new Yaesu unit includes 6m, 2m and 70cms as well as all the HF bands too! Data modes are well supported as well as the usual SSB, CW, FM and AM.

Most of the features of a base station multimode are included plus space for a set of AA rechargeable cells to allow true handheld operation. The top BNC antenna connector is normally active on 6, 2 and 70cms for which bands a whip antenna is included. The top antenna socket may also be menu selected for the HF bands so a compact base or centre loaded whip can be used for handheld HF DX working. When used with an HF whip on the rig it is best to use a short counterpoise wire as well as this helps radiation efficiency and antenna matching considerably.

Likes and dislikes

Of course I like the very small size. Also, unlike my IC706, there is no annoying fan blowing away. The ergonomics are pretty good for a radio of such small dimensions. The receiver SSB filter is a little wide although with use of the adjustable passband filter shift one can compensate for this to a degree.

A serious CW QRP DXer would benefit from one of the optional narrow filters. I have fitted the 500Hz filter.

There is a carry case available. You have to punch out the holes in the case to allow access to some of the sockets and this is tricky to do without damaging the case.

Battery life on the Yaesu NiCad pack isn't too great - enough for an hour's lunchtime DXing but not much more unless you use external gell cells

Overall it is a MAGIC little rig and I'm in love with it!

The rig is ideal for QRP holiday and Adventure Radio use.

Main Details

TX Power 2.5W SSB/CW/FM/CW, 0.7W AM (internal batteries)
5W SSB/CW/FM/CW 1.5W AM (with 13.8V supply)
Tx Coverage 160-10m HF.
6m, 2m,70cms VHF/UHF
RX Coverage 0.1-56MHz,
76-154MHz,
430-470MHz
Weight 2.6 lbs
Size 5.31 x 1.5 x 6.5 inches

Speech Clipper for the Yaesu FT817

Watch out for details of NEW PC Control software soon..