FT-2500M Additional Features

FT-2500M Additional Features

Miscellaneous Keyboard MODs

by Andrew Litt, KC5APJ
  1. INIT Reset- The normal memory clear mode described in the manual doesn't reset all of the stored functions, just the frequency memories. To clear everything, including the APO timer, TOT, and any keyboard mods, hold down [REV], [A/N], and [F/W] while turning the radio on. The radio will say INIT on the display for a second, and then everything will return to factory default.

  2. Slashed zeros- Hold down [A/N] while turning the radio on. All zeros will be slashed. Repeat the sequence to disable slashed zeros.

  3. Memory only tuning- If you want to restrict tuning to memories only, hold down [D/MR] and [A/N] while turning the radio on. The display should read CH-xx, with the xx being the last memory that was tuned to before the mod. Tuning with the knob or the microphone buttons only changes to the memory number shown after the CH-. Pressing [CALL] puts CALL on the display and tunes to the call channel. The only features that can be changed in this mode are power level, lock, and code paging. All other functions such as APO, backlight brightness, and repeater offset are not accessible in this mode, and must be changed in normal operating mode. Exiting this mode is done in the same way as getting into it: hold down [D/MR] and [A/N] while turning the radio on. This mode is probably designed for a commercial version of this radio.

Extended Xmit Mod

by Andrew Litt, KC5APJ

Here's an easy way to expand the transmit range to 140.000-180.000MHz.

  1. Remove the top cover as described on page 49 in the manual.

  2. Cut the green wire next to jumper pad 7. This wire is shown in the manual in the illustration on page 45. It is right under where it says JP6.

  3. Close the top.

  4. Turn on the rig & you're set!
I have a feeling that there is a keyboard mod for expanded receive, but I have yet to find it.

Just as anybody else would say in a mod, I take no responsibility for any damage inflicted on your radio by the modifications described in this article or anything related to it. I also take no responsibility for the voiding of your warranty.

Also, remember that unless you are licensed for MARS or any other service that gives you the ability to trasmit out-of-band, you have no need to do this mod.