HF/VHF/UHF All Mode Transceiver

FT-991
Operating Manual
 About This Manual . . .
The FT-991A is a leading-edge transceiver with a number of new and exciting features, some of which may be unfamil-
iar to you. In order to gain the most enjoyment and operating efficiency from your FT-991A, we recommend that you
read this manual in its entirety, and keep it handy for reference as you explore the many capabilities of your new trans-
ceiver.
Before using your FT-991A, be sure to read and follow the instructions in the “Before You Begin” section of this manu-
al.

About TFT Displays

FT-991A utilizes a TFT liquid-crystal display.
• Although TFT liquid-crystal displays are made using very precise technology, they are prone to develop
dead pixels (dark dot) or pixels that are always on (bright dot). Please understand that such phenomena
do not constitute product defects or malfunctions. Rather, this phenomena occurs due to limitations in the
manufacturing technology with respect to TFT liquid-crystal displays.
• Depending on the viewing angle, unevenness in color or brightness may occur. Please note that any uneven-
ness observed is inherent to the construction of TFT liquid crystal displays and therefore does not constitute
a product defect or malfunction.
• If your TFT liquid-crystal display becomes dirty, please use a dry soft cloth or tissue to wipe the display
clean. Use of glass cleaner, household cleaners, organic solvents, alcohol, abrasives, and/or like substance
may damage the TFT liquid-crystal display.
 General Description
Built-in high-brightness TFT full-color The transceiver automatically checks the channel fre-
display with touch-panel functionality quency for registered member stations that are within com-
The FT-991A is equipped with a 3.5 inch full-color TFT municating range. The distance and direction information
display. Functions, including the receiving band, the noise of the call sign members of the group may be shown on
and signal interference reduction tools are graphically the TFT display.
displayed. Even while performing rigorous operations,
during DX pditions or contests, the operator may instantly Comes equipped with two types of
grasp the status of each function. roofing filters
This transceiver is equipped with two types of roofing fil-
Equipped with C4FM digital mode ters for 3 kHz and 15 kHz bandwidths. These narrow band
This transceiver C4FM mode provides good error cor- filters are especially useful on a very crowded band during
rection performance, and supports the V/D mode (voice/ contests, because they can dramatically attenuate powerful
data simultaneous transmission mode) which makes the out-of-band signals in the first IF stage and reduce their
transceiver suitable for mobile communication, and the impact in the second stage to further optimizing the excel-
Voice FR mode (voice full rate mode) which allows the lent dynamic range and IP3 characteristics for processing
transceiver to transmit high quality digital audio. The AMS signals ranging from faint to powerful.
function recognizes the contacting stations transmission
method and automatically switches the transceiver to the Two selectable RF amplifiers provide the
same C4FM digital or analog (FM) communications mode optimal receiver gain for each low-to high
as the received signal. HF band (see page 48.)
Configure the front end RF circuitry for the precise gain and
DG-ID (Digital Group ID) feature, performance to suit the conditions of each HF band.Select
the Group Monitor (GM) feature the IPO (Intercept Point Optimization) feature to optimize
enables automatically locating, and the proximal multi-signal and mutual modulation character-
communicating with other stations that istics in order to minimize the effects of powerful broadcast
have the same DG-ID number within stations, especially in the low-band so that even the faintest
contact range. signals can be received. When higher gain is advantageous,
The two-digit DG-ID numbers (00 to 99) can be set select the single low noise RF amplifier AMP1. In the high
separately for Transmit and Receive. By setting both bands, adding AMP2 provides maximum useful gain.
transmit and receive to “00”, communication with all
the other stations in the digital C4FM mode is possible, High stability built-in TCXO
regardless of their DG-ID number setting. Matching the The 30.225 MHz standard oscillator provides exceptional
transmit DG-ID number to the uplink DG-ID number set frequency stability. It is temperature compensated and boasts
in the DR-2X System Fusion II digital repeater, will permit an enhanced ±0.5 ppm stability from −10°C to +50°C.
access to the digital repeater DR-2X used by the club.
WIDTH feature and continuously variable
DP-ID (Digital Personal ID) feature may bandwidth SHIFT feature. Optimal wide to
communicate only by the transceivers narrow bandwidth switching (see pages
registered the individual ID information. 51, 52.)
Every C4FM digital transmit communication contains The SHIFT feature, can eliminate interference in one side
the individual ID information (Radio ID) of each of the passband. The WIDTH feature allows the bandwidth
transceiver. The DP-ID function uses this individual ID to be narrowed by rotating the WIDTH knob. The moment
information. When the DP-IDs of the transceiver are weak signals disappear due to interfering signals (includ-
registered with each other, they can communicate even ing pile-ups), you can eliminate the interfering signals and
if the DG-ID numbers are different. By registering the extract only the desired signal, thanks to the unique DSP
DP-ID of the transceiver to the DR-2X System Fusion II sharp filtering characteristic.
digital repeater, the digital repeater may be controlled by
remote operation. CONTOUR feature is renowned for
effective noise control (see page 50.)
GM (group monitor) function Rather than using the DSP extremely sharp attenuation
automatically inquires to find if there characteristics, the CONTOUR circuit provides gentle
shaping of the DSP passband filter and can thus attenuate
are any stations with the GM function in
or peak bandwidth components in segments. The interfer-
operation on the same frequency within
ing signal can be naturally shaped without having part of
communication range. The members the signal suddenly interrupted. The contour function is
may then automatically exchange (send/ very effective in making the desired signal rise out of the
receive) station location information. interference.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 1

General Description
DNR (Digital Noise Reduction) by DSP Real-Time Spectrum Scope and Multi-Color
digital processing (see page 56.) Waterfall Display (see page 42.)
The incorporated digital noise reduction circuit may be The spectrum scope function provides a visual display of
set to the optimal working point by varying the 15 step the strength and distribution of signals across the band in
parameters according to the noise type. real time. The Waterfall Display Mode portrays color dif-
ferentiation between strong and weak signals.
NOTCH feature that significantly
eliminates unwanted beat signals; and High speed antenna tuner (see page 63.)
DNF feature that instantly attenuates The transceiver is equipped with the relay switching high
multiple beat signals (see page 56.) speed digital tuner which supports 1.8 MHz to 50 MHz.
When interfering beat signals are present in the receiver The large 100-channel tuning data memory allows im-
passband, the IF NOTCH feature can significantly elimi- mediate recall of the optimum matching conditions for
nate a part of the passband and remove the beat signal. previously tuned frequencies.
Moreover, the function is equipped with an Automatic
Tracking System DNF (Digital Notch Filter) that can Optional Five Channel Message Memory
be engaged by DSP when there are multiple interfering (voice memory) (see page 70.)
signals, even when the frequency is changing. You can use the 5 channel voice memory function which
is useful for operating in contests, etc. This voice memory
Reliable High-output Final Amplifier enables recording of up to 20 seconds of audio for each
Stage message you want to send.
In the HF/50MHz frequency range, a pair of RD100HHF1
transistors in a push-pull RF amplifier arrangement deliv- Custom selection (C.S) button (see page 39.)
ers 100 watts of low-distortion, high-quality transmitter This feature lets you select any Menu item for one-touch
power. The final amplifier for the 144 MHz/430 MHz access via the C.S button.
bands uses the high-output RDH70HUF2 device, provid-
ing ample output power of 50 watts.

Microphone Amplifier that includes

Parametric Equalizer (see page 65.)
The microphone amplifier equalizer feature is equipped
with a three-stage parametric equalizer that can alter the
Low, Mid, and High frequencies of the audio separately;
this feature permits the bandwidth and gain for each part of
the audio spectrum to be precisely adjusted independently.

Page 2 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Table of Contents
General Description.............................................. 1 WIDTH (IF DSP Bandwidth) Tuning
Table of Contents.................................................. 3 (SSB/CW/RTTY/DATA Modes)....52
NARROW (NAR) One-Touch IF Filter Selection....54
Safety Precautions................................................. 5
IF NOTCH Filter Operation
Accessories & Options.......................................... 7 (SSB/CW/RTTY/DATA/AM Modes)..................55
Supplied Accessories.............................................7
Digital NOTCH Filter (DNF) Operation.............56
Available Options..................................................8
Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) Operation.........56
Before You Begin................................................... 9
Tools for Comfortable and Effective Reception... 57
Base Station Wire Stand........................................9
RF Gain...............................................................57
Adjusting the Main Tuning Dial Torque................9
Audio Peak Filter.................................................58
Adjusting the Clock.............................................10
AGC (Automatic Gain Control)..........................59
Inputting the Call Sign......................................... 11
Adjustable Receiver Audio Filter........................60
Resetting the Microprocessor..............................12
Antenna Considerations.......................................13 SSB/AM Mode Transmission............................. 61
About Coaxial Cable...........................................13 Using the Automatic Antenna Tuner................. 63
Grounding............................................................14 ATU Operation....................................................63
Connection of Antenna and Power Cables..........15 About ATU Operation..........................................64
Installation and Interconnections...................... 16 Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality.................. 65
Connection of Microphone, Headphone and Parametric Microphone Equalizer
Remote Control Keypad....16 (SSB/AM mode)....65
Key, Keyer, and Computer-Driven Keying Using the Speech Processor (SSB Mode)...........68
Interconnections....17 Adjusting the SSB Transmitted Bandwidth
VL-1000 Linear Amplifier Interconnections.......18 (SSB Mode)....69
Plug/Connector Pinout Diagrams........................19 Transmitter Convenience Features................... 70
Front Panel Controls & Switches...................... 20 Voice Memory (SSB/AM modes)........................70
VOX (SSB/AM/FM Modes: Automatic
About the Display................................................ 24
TX/RX Switching using Voice Control)....72
TFT Liquid Crystal Display................................24
MONITOR (SSB/AM modes).............................74
LED Indicators....................................................26
Split Operation Using the TX Clarifier................75
Rear Panel............................................................ 27 Split-Frequency Operation..................................76
MH-31A8J Microphone Switches...................... 29 CW Mode Operation.......................................... 78
Optional MH-36E8J Microphone Switches...... 31 Setup for Straight Key
Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands.... 32 (and Straight Key emulation) Operation....78
Operation on 60-Meter (5 MHz) Band Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer....................80
(U.S. and U.K. version only)....35 CW Convenience Features................................. 84
( )
CLAR Clarifier Operation................................36 CW Spotting (Zero-Beating)...............................84
LOCK..................................................................37 CW Delay Time Setting.......................................85
DIMMER.............................................................37 CW Pitch Adjustment..........................................85
VFO COLOR.......................................................38 Contest Memory Keyer.......................................86
Convenience Features......................................... 39 FM Mode Operation........................................... 93
Band Stack Operation..........................................39 Basic Operation...................................................93
C.S (Custom Switch)...........................................39 Repeater Operation..............................................94
AMS (Automatic Mode Select) Operation..........40 DCS Operation....................................................96
SCOPE.................................................................42 Tone Squelch Operation......................................96
More Frequency Navigation Techniques.............44
C4FM Mode (Digital Mode) Operation............ 97
Receiver Operation (Front End Block Diagram)....46
DG-ID/DP-ID Features....................................... 99
Interference Rejection........................................ 47 Digital Group ID (DG-ID) feature......................99
ATT (Attenuator).................................................47 Digital Personal ID (DP-ID) feature..................101
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization).....................48
Memory Operation........................................... 103
IF Noise Blanker (NB) Operation.......................49
Convenient Memory functions..........................103
CONTOUR Control Operation............................50
QMB (Quick Memory Bank)............................103
IF SHIFT Operation
(SSB/CW/RTTY/DATA Modes)....51 Standard Memory Operation.............................104
Memory Groups................................................. 110

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 3

Table of Contents
Operation on Alaska Emergency Frequency:
5167.5 khz (U.S. Version Only).... 112
VFO and Memory Scanning............................ 113
VFO Scanning................................................... 113
Memory Scan..................................................... 114
PMS (Programmable Memory Scanning)...... 115
Using the GPS Function................................... 116
What is GPS?..................................................... 116
Positioning Using GPS...................................... 116
Displaying the Position Information................. 118
Using the GM / WIRES-X Function................ 119
What is the GM Function?................................ 119
Basic Methods to Use the GM Function........... 119
What is the WIRES-X Function?...................... 119
RTTY (Radio Teletype) Operation.................. 120
Example of Connecting
RTTY Communications Device....120
( )
DATA PSK Operation.................................... 122
Example of Data Communications Device.......122
Menu Mode........................................................ 124
Installation of Optional Accessories................ 143
FC-40 External Automatic Antenna Tuner
(for Wire Antenna)....143
Active-Tuning Antenna System
(ATAS-120A) Operation....145
Mounting Bracket MMB-90 Installation...........147
Specifications..................................................... 148
Index................................................................... 150

Page 4 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Safety Precautions
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
This symbol indicates the possibility of death or serious injury being inflicted on the user and the
DANGER surrounding people when these instructions are ignored and the product is mishandled.
This symbol indicates the possibility of death or serious injury being inflicted on the user and the
WARNING surrounding people when these instructions are ignored and the product is mishandled.
This symbol indicates the possibility of physical impediments occurring or impediments being in-
CAUTION flicted on the user and the surrounding people when these instructions are ignored and the product
is mishandled.

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 Do not operate the device when flammable
as in hospitals and airplanes. gas is generated.
This may exert an impact on electronic and medi- Doing so may result in fire and explosion.
cal devices.
When an alarm goes off with the external an-
Do not use this product while driving or riding
tenna connected, cut off the power supply to
a motorbike. This may result in accidents.
this radio immediately and disconnect the ex-
Make sure to stop the car in a safe location first
ternal antenna from this radio.
before use if the device is going to be used by
If not, this may result in fire, electric shock and
the driver.
equipment failure.
Do not transmit in crowded places in consid- Do not touch any liquid leaking from the liquid
eration of people who are fitted with medical display with your bare hands.
devices such as heart pacemakers. There is a risk of chemical burns occurring when
Electromagnetic waves from the device may af- the liquid comes into contact with the skin or gets
fect the medical device, resulting in accidents into the eyes. In this case, seek medical treat-
caused by malfunctions. ment immediately.
Never touch the antenna during transmission.
This may result in injury, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.

WARNING
When smoke or strange odors are emitted
Do not use voltages other than the specified from the radio, turn off the power and discon-
power supply voltage. nect the power cord from the socket.
Doing so may result in fire and electric shock. This may result in fire, liquid leak, overheating,
Do not transmit continuously for long periods damage, ignition and equipment failure. Please
of time. contact our company customer support or the re-
This may cause the temperature of the main body tail store where you purchased the device.
to rise and result in burns and failures due to Keep the power plug pins and the surround-
overheating. ing areas clean at all times.
Do not dismantle or modify the device. This may result in fire, liquid leak, overheating,
This may result in injury, electric shock and equip- breakage, ignition etc.
ment failure. Disconnect the power cord and connection
Do not handle the power plug and connector cables before incorporating items sold sepa-
etc. with wet hands. Also do not plug and un- rately and replacing the fuse.
plug the power plug with wet hands. This may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
This may result in injury, liquid leak, electric shock ment failure.
and equipment failure. Never cut off the fuse holder of the DC power
Do not use fuses other than those specified. cord.
Doing so may result in fire and equipment failure. This may cause short-circuiting and result in igni-
tion and fire.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 5

Safety Precautions
Do not allow metallic objects such as wires Refrain from using headphones and ear-
and water to get inside the product. phones at a loud volume.
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip- Continuous exposure to loud volumes may result
ment failure. in hearing impairment.
Do not place the device in areas that may get Do not use the device when the power cord
wet easily (e.g. near a humidifier). and connection cables are damaged, and
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip- when the DC power connector cannot be
ment failure. plugged in tightly.
When connecting a DC power cord, pay due Please contact our company customer support or
care not to mix up the positive and negative the retail store where you purchased the device
polarities. as this may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip- ment failure.
ment failure. Follow the instructions given when installing
Do not use DC power cords other than the one items sold separately and replacing the fuse.
enclosed or specified. This may result in fire, electric shock and equip-
This may result in fire, electric shock and equip- ment failure.
ment failure. Do not use the device when the alarm goes
Do not bend, twist, pull, heat and modify the off.
power cord and connection cables in an un- For safety reasons, please pull the power plug of
reasonable manner. the DC power equipment connected to the prod-
This may cut or damage the cables and result in uct out of the AC socket.
fire, electric shock and equipment failure. Never touch the antenna as well. This may result
in fire, electric shock and equipment failure due
Do not pull the cable when plugging and un- to thunder.
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.

CAUTION
Do not place this device near a heating instru- For safety reasons, switch off the power and
ment or in a location exposed to direct sun- pull out the DC power cord connected to the
light. DC power connector when the device is not
This may result in deformation and discoloration. going to be used for a long period of time.
Do not place this device in a location where If not, this may result in fire and overheating.
there is a lot of dust and humidity. Do not throw or subject the device to strong
Doing so may result in fire and equipment failure. impact forces.
Stay as far away from the antenna as possible This may result in equipment failure.
during transmission. Do not the put this device near magnetic cards
Long-term exposure to electromagnetic radiation and video tapes.
may have a negative effect on the human body. The data in the cash card and video tape etc. may
Do not wipe the case using thinner and ben- be erased.
zene etc. Do not place the device on an unsteady or
Please use a soft and dry piece of cloth to wipe sloping surface, or in a location where there
away the stains on the case. is a lot of vibration.
Keep out of the reach of small children. The device may fall over or drop, resulting in fire,
If not, this may result in injuries to children. injury and equipment failure.
Do not put heavy objects on top of the power Do not stand on top of the product, and do not
cord and connection cables. place heavy objects on top or insert objects
This may damage the power cord and connection inside it.
cables, resulting in fire and electric shock. If not, this may result in equipment failure.
Do not transmit near the television and radio. Do not use a microphone other than those
This may result in electromagnetic interference. specified when connecting a microphone to
the device.
Do not use optional products other than those If not, this may result in equipment failure.
specified by our company.
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-
When using the device in a hybrid car or fuel- ture of the heat radiating parts will get higher, re-
saving car, make sure to check with the car sulting in burns when touched.
manufacturer before using.
The device may not be able to receive transmis- Do not open the case of the product except
sions normally due to the influence of noises from when replacing the fuse and when installing
the electrical devices (inverters etc.) fitted in the items sold separately.
car. This may result in injury, electric shock and equip-
ment failure.
Do not turn on the volume too high when us-
ing a headphone or earphone.
This may result in hearing impairment.

Page 6 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Accessories & Options
Supplied Accessories

DC Power Cord Hand Microphone (MH-31A8J) Spare Fuse (25A)

Operating Manual
Warranty Card
World Map
Sticker

The illustrations above may vary slightly from the actual accessories.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 7

Accessories & Options
Available Options
 For details, see “Installation of Optional Accessories” on page 143 or the catalog.

Reference Microphone Lightweight Stereo Headphone Remote Control Keypad

M-1 YH-77STA FH-2

Linear Amplifier/AC Power Supply External Automatic Antenna Tuner

VL-1000/VP-1000 FC-40

Others
Hand Microphone MH-31A8J (equivalent to the supplied microphone)
DTMF Hand Microphone MH-36E8J
Dual Element Microphone M-100
Ultra-High-Fidelity Desktop Microphone MD-200A8X
Desktop Microphone MD-100A8X
Active Tuning Antenna (Automatic Type) ATAS-120A
Antenna Base Kit ATBK-100
Active Tuning Antenna (Manual Type) ATAS-25
Mobile Bracket MMB-90
External Power Supply (13.8 VDC 23 A) FP-1023A (U.S.A. only)
External Power Supply (13.8 VDC 25 A) FP-1030A
VL-1000 Linear Amplifier Connection Cable CT-58
Packet Interface Cable CT-39A

Page 8 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Before You Begin
Base Station Wire Stand
The heavy wire stand on the bottom of the transceiver allows the transceiver to be tilted upward for better viewing. Sim-
ply fold the stand forward to raise the front of the transceiver, and fold it back against the bottom case to lower the front
of the FT-991A.

Adjusting the Main Tuning Dial Torque

The torque (drag) of the Main Tuning Dial knob may be adjusted according to your preferences. Rotate the skirt at the
base of the knob clockwise to reduce the drag, or counter-clockwise to increase the drag.

Skirt

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 9

Before You Begin
Adjusting the Clock
Use the following procedure to adjust the clock shown at the top right of the LCD display.

1. Press and hold the MENU(SETUP) button. MENU(SETUP) button

2. Touch [TIME/DATE] on the LCD.

LCD

3. Enter the present time with the number keys on the

LCD, then touch [ENT].

4. Touch [DATE] on the LCD to switch the screen.

[TIME]
Sets the time display. Touching this button toggles be-
tween UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) and the local
time. When UTC is displayed, “Z” appears on the right
side of the time.
Note:
The user may decide the time preference.
5. Enter month, day, and year with the number keys on The Local or UTC time must be set manually; the
the LCD, then touch [ENT]. time does not adjust automatically when the setting is
switched between Local and UTC time.
Only the “Z” indicator for UTC is changed.

[DATE]
Sets the date display. Touching this button toggles be-
tween MM/DD/YYYY and YYYY/MM/DD.

[DST]
Touching this button switches daylight saving time be-
6. Touch [BACK] on the LCD to return to the setup tween ON and OFF. When daylight saving time is set to
mode display. on, “D” appears on the right side of the time.
7. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to return to the
radio operation display.

Page 10 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Before You Begin
Inputting the Call Sign
When turning on the power for the first time after purchase, or after resetting the transceiver, enter your own call sign.
The call sign will be displayed on the start screen when turning on the power and will be used to identify the station
when sending messages during digital communication.

1. Press and hold the MENU(SETUP) button. MENU(SETUP) button

2. Touch [MY CALL] on the LCD.

LCD

Advice:
The time duration of the initial call sign start up
screen display may be changed from the Menu item
“005 MY CALL INDICATION”.
3. Touch a character key. The touched character will be
displayed at the top of the screen. Enter each charac-
ter of your call sign.

Advice:
 Up to 10 characters (letters, numbers, and sym-
bols) can be entered.
4. Touch [ENT] on the LCD. The call sign setting is
completed and the display will switch to the frequen-
cy display screen.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 11

Before You Begin
Resetting the Microprocessor
Resetting Memories (Only)
Use this procedure to reset (clear) the previously stored ON/OFF Switch AM button

Memory channels, without affecting any configuration

changes you may have made to the Menu settings.
1. Press the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn the
transceiver off.
2. While holding the AM button in, press and hold
in the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn the trans-
ceiver on. Once the transceiver comes on, you may
release the buttons.
Note:
The FT-991A cannot erase the memory channels “01”
(and “5-01” through “5-10”: U.S. version).

Menu Resetting
Use this procedure to restore the Menu settings to their ON/OFF Switch MENU(SETUP) Button
factory defaults, without affecting the programmed
memories.
1. Press the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn the
transceiver off.
2. While holding the MENU(SETUP) button in, press
and hold in the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn
the transceiver on. Once the transceiver comes on,
release the buttons.

Full Reset (Except SETUP settings)

Use this procedure to restore all Menu and Memory set- ON/OFF Switch F(M-LIST) Button
tings except SETUP settings (MY CALL, LAT/LON,
TIME/DATE, and CW TEXT) to their original factory
defaults . All Memories will be cleared by this proce-
dure.
1. Press the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn the
transceiver off.
2. While holding the F(M-LIST) in, press and hold in
the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn the trans-
ceiver on. Once the transceiver comes on, release the
buttons.

Full Reset
Use this procedure to restore all Menu and Memory set- ON/OFF Switch FAST Button LOCK Button
tings to their original factory defaults. All Memories will
be cleared by this procedure.
1. Press the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn the
transceiver off.
2. While holding the FAST and LOCK buttons in,
press and hold in the front panel ON/OFF switch to
turn the transceiver on. Once the transceiver comes
on, release the buttons.

Page 12 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Before You Begin
Antenna Considerations
The FT-991A is designed for use with any antenna system providing a 50 Ohm resistive impedance at the desired op-
erating frequency. While minor excursions from the 50-Ohm specification are of no consequence, if the Standing Wave
Ratio (SWR) present at the Antenna jack is greater than 3:1, the transceiver’s Automatic Antenna Tuner may not be able
to reduce the impedance mismatch to an acceptable value.
Every effort should be made to ensure that the impedance of the antenna system be as close as possible to the specified
50-Ohm value. Note that the “G5RV” type antenna does not provide a 50-Ohm impedance on all HF Amateur bands. An
external wide-range antenna coupler must be used with this antenna type.
Any antenna to be used with the FT-991A must be fed from the transceiver with 50 Ohm coaxial cable. Therefore,
when using a “balanced” antenna such as a dipole, remember that a balun or other matching/balancing device must be
used to ensure proper antenna performance.
The same precautions apply to any additional (receive-only) antennas connected to the antenna jacks. If the receive only
antennas do not have impedance near 50 Ohms at the operating frequency, It may be necessary to install an external an-
tenna tuner to obtain optimum performance.

About Coaxial Cable

Use high-quality 50-Ohm coaxial cable for the lead-in to your FT-991A transceiver. All efforts at providing an efficient
antenna system will be wasted if poor quality, lossy coaxial cable is used. This transceiver utilizes standard “M” (“PL-
259”) type connectors.

Typical PL-259 Installation

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 13

Before You Begin
Grounding
The FT-991A transceiver, like any other HF communications apparatus, requires an effective ground system for maxi-
mum electrical safety and best communications effectiveness. A good ground system can contribute to station efficiency
in a number of ways:
 It can minimize the possibility of electrical shock to the operator.
 It can minimize RF currents flowing on the shield of the coaxial cable and the chassis of the transceiver. Such cur-
rents may lead to radiation, which can cause interference to home entertainment devices or laboratory test equip-
ment.
 It can minimize the possibility of erratic transceiver/accessory operation caused by RF feedback and/or improper
current flow through logic devices.
An effective earth ground system may take several forms. For a more complete discussion, see an appropriate RF engi-
neering text. The information below is intended only as a guideline.
Typically, the ground connection consists of one or more copper-clad steel rods, driven into the ground. If multiple
ground rods are used, they should be positioned in a “V” configuration and bonded together at the base of the “V” which
is nearest the station location. Use a heavy, braided cable (such as the discarded shield from type RG-213 coaxial cable)
and strong cable clamps to secure the braided cable(s) to the ground rods. Be sure to weatherproof the connections
to ensure many years of reliable service. Use the same type of heavy, braided cable for the connections to the station
ground bus (described below).
Inside the station, a common ground bus consisting of a copper pipe of at least 25 mm diameter should be used. An al-
ternative station ground bus may consist of a wide copper plate (single-sided circuit board material is ideal) secured to
the bottom of the operating desk. Grounding connections from individual transceivers, power supplies, and data com-
munications devices (TNCs, etc.) should be made directly to the ground bus using a heavy, braided cable.
Do not “Daisy-Chain” ground connections from one electrical device to another and thence to the ground bus. This
method may nullify any attempt at effective radio frequency grounding. See the drawing below for examples of proper
grounding techniques.
Inspect the ground system - inside the station as well as outside - on a regular basis to ensure continued performance
and safety.
Besides following the above guidelines carefully, note that household or industrial gas lines must never be used in an
attempt to establish an electrical ground. Cold water pipes may, in some instances, help in the grounding effort, but gas
lines represent a significant explosion hazard, and must never be used.

Transceiver
Transceiver LinearLinear TNC TNC Transceiver
Transceiver LinearLinear TNC TNC
Amplifier
Amplifier Amplifier
Amplifier
GND GND GND GND GND GND GND GND GND GND GND GND

"Daisy Chain"
"Daisy Chain"

Proper Ground Connection Improper Ground Connection

Page 14 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Before You Begin
Connection of Antenna and Power Cables
Please follow the outline in the illustration regarding the proper connection of antenna coaxial cables, as well as the DC
power cable. The DC power connector for the FT-991A must only be connected to a DC source providing 13.8 Volts DC
(±15 %), and capable of at least 23 Amperes of current. Always observe proper polarity when making DC connection:
The RED DC power lead connects to the Positive (+) DC terminal.
The BLACK DC power lead connects to the Negative (–) DC terminal.

To prevent damage from lightning, at-

mospheric electricity, electrical shock
etc., please provide a good earth ground.
Use a short, thick, braided cable to connect your
station equipment to the
buried ground rod (or
alternative earth ground
system). Check the DC volt-
a g e a n d c u r re n t
rating (+13.8 V, 23 A) of the
power supply before con-
necting to the transceiver.

We recommend the use of the FP-1030A (USA market only) AC Power Supply. Other models of power supplies may
be used with the FT-991A, but the 13.8 VDC input voltage, 23 Ampere current capability, and DC cable polarity guide-
lines described above must be strictly followed.
Note that other manufacturers may use the same type of DC power connections as the FT-991A transceiver; however,
the wiring configuration may be different from that specified for the FT-991A transceiver. Serious damage can be
caused if improper DC connections are made; consult with a qualified service technician when in doubt.
High RF voltage is present in the TX RF section of the transceiver while transmitting.
Absolutely! Do not touch the TX RF section while transmitting.
Permanent damage can result when improper supply voltage, or reverse-polarity voltage, is applied to the FT-
991A. The Limited Warranty on this transceiver does not cover damage caused by application of AC voltage, re-
verse polarity DC, or DC voltage outside the specified range of 13.8 V ±15 %. When replacing fuses, be certain
to use a fuse of the proper rating. The FT-991A requires a 25 Amp blade fuse.
Note:
 Do not place the FT-991A in a location with direct exposure to sunshine.
 Do not place the FT-991A in a location exposed to dust and/or high humidity.
 Ensure adequate ventilation around the FT-991A, to prevent heat build-up and possible reduction of performance
due to high heat.
 Do not install the FT-991A on an unstable desk or table. Do not place it in a location where objects may fall onto it
from above.
 To minimize the possibility of interference to home entertainment devices, take all precautionary steps including
separation of TV/FM antennas from Amateur transmitting antennas to the greatest extent possible, and keep trans-
mitting coaxial cables separated from cables connected to home entertainment devices.
 Ensure that the DC power cord is not subject to undue stress or bending, which could damage the cable or cause it to
be accidentally unplugged from the rear panel DC IN jack.
 Be certain to install your transmitting antenna(s) so they cannot possibly come in contact with TV/FM radio or other
antennas, or with power or telephone lines.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 15

Installation and Interconnections
Connection of Microphone, Headphone and Remote Control Keypad

 DOWN
 UP
 +5V
  MIC GND
  MIC
 PTT
 GND Lightweight Stereo
 FAST Headphone
YH-77STA

Note:
Make sure to turn off the power of the transceiver before connecting or disconnecting the microphone.

Remote Control Keypad

FH-2
If the FH-2 plug is removed from the jack
while the FT-991A is in operation, the FT-
991A may be switched to the transmit mode.
Turn off the power of the FT-991A before connecting
or disconnecting the FH-2.

Page 16 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Installation and Interconnections
Key, Keyer, and Computer-Driven Keying Interconnections
The FT-991A includes many features for the CW operator. These functions will be detailed in the “CW Mode Opera-
tion” section later. This 3.5 mm, 3-contact jack accepts a CW key or keyer paddles (for the built-in electronic keyer), or
the output from an external electronic keyer.
The Menu selections permit configuring the front panel KEY jack according to the device connected. For example, a
keyer paddle may be connected to the front panel KEY jack, and Menu item “012 KEYER TYPE” used to select paddle
input.
The KEY jack on the FT-991A utilize “Positive” keying voltage. Key-up voltage is approximately +3.3V DC, and key-
down current is approximately 4 mA. When connecting a key or other device to the KEY jack, use only a 3-contact
(“stereo”) 3.5 mm phone plug; a 2-contact plug will place a short between the ring and shaft (ground) of the plug, result-
ing in a constant “key-down” condition in some circumstances.

KEY GND
DOT DASH COMMON

KEY NC GND

DOT DASH COMMON

Single key/Double-speed key Manipulator

If the Keyer plug is removed from the jack while the FT-991A is in operation,
the FT-991A may be switched to the transmit mode.
Turn off the power of the FT-991A before connecting or disconnecting the Keyer.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 17

Installation and Interconnections
VL-1000 Linear Amplifier Interconnections
Be sure that both the FT-991A and VL-1000 are turned off, and then follow the installation recommendations contained
in the illustration.
Note:
 Refer to the VL-1000 Operating Manual for details regarding amplifier operation.
 Do not attempt to connect or disconnect coaxial cables when your hands are wet.
 Set the Menu item “141 TUNER SELECT” to “LAMP”.
 Since the ALC cable is connected to the REM/ALC jack, the optional FH-2 cannot be connected.

Coaxial Cable (50Ω)

Connect to “INPUT 1” of the VL-1000

HF/50MHz Antenna
144/430MHz Antenna

Set the front panel’s

INPUT 1
INPUT switch to the
144/430MHz

DC 13.8 V
ANT 1

ANT 2

ANT 3
HF/50MHz

“INPUT1”.
INPUT
ANT

ANT

CONTROL
BAND-DATA 1
REM/ALC

DC 48V IN
TUN/LIN

ALC 1
GND

CT-58 Band Data Cable (Option) GND

VP-1000

VP-1000
CT-58 ALC Cable (Option)

To link the FT-991A and VL-

1000 Power switches, set the
VL-1000 REMOTE switch to
the “ON” position.

Page 18 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Installation and Interconnections
Plug/Connector Pinout Diagrams

MIC GPS/CAT

① DCD
 DOWN ② SERIAL OUT/RXD
 UP ⑨ ⑧ ⑦ ⑥ 　（GPS DATA IN）
 +5V ③ SERIAL IN
  MIC GND ④ DTR
  MIC ⑤ GND
 PTT ⑥ DSR
 GND ⑤④ ③ ②① ⑦ RTS
 FAST ⑧ CTS
⑨ RI
(as viewed from front panel) (as viewed from rear panel)

RTTY/DATA TUN/LIN

 +13V OUT
① DATA IN   TX GND
① ② ② GND    GND
③ PTT  TX D (BAND A)
③ ④ ④ SHIFT    RX D (BAND B)
⑤ DATA OUT  BAND C
⑤ ⑥ ⑥ SQL    RESET (BAND D)

 TX INH

(as viewed from rear panel) (as viewed from rear panel)

DC IN KEY

Manipulator Single key/Double-speed key

DOT DASH COMMON KEY GND

Do not use
(as viewed from rear panel) 2-conductor type plug

EXT SPKR PHONE

SIGNAL (RIGHT)

SIGNAL GND
SIGNAL (LEFT) GND

REM/ALC

TX REQ NC

EXT ALC GND REMOTE GND

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 19

Front Panel Controls & Switches

5 6

9 8 7

ON/OFF Switch m When connecting a key or other device to the

Press and hold in this switch for one second to turn KEY jack, use only a 3-contact (“stereo”) 3.5
the transceiver on. Similarly, press and hold in this mm phone plug; a 2-contact plug will place a
switch for one second to turn the transceiver off. short between the ring and the (grounded) shaft
m Connect the FT-991A transceiver to a com- of the plug, resulting in a constant “key-down”
mercially available DC power supply. Turn the condition.
DC supply on to place the transceiver in standby m Key-up voltage is +3.3 V, and key-down current
mode. The transceiver must be in standby mode is about 4 mA.
to turn it on using the ON/OFF switch. For de- Note:
tails on how to connect a commercially available A 2-contact plug cannot be used in this jack.
DC power supply, see page 15.
PHONES Jack
m Press the ON/OFF switch briefly while the pow-
er is on, the receiver audio from the speaker will Connect headphones to this ϕ3.5 standard stereo
be muted for about 3 seconds (Mute function). jack.
m Inserting a headphone plug into this jack will de-
KEY Jack activate the internal and external speakers.
Connect a telegraph key or electronic keyer paddle Note:
to use for CW mode operation. When wearing headphones, we recommend that you
turn the AF Gain levels down to their lowest settings
KEY GND before turning power on, to minimize the impact on
your hearing caused by audio “pops” during switch-on.
KEY NC GND MIC Jack
This 8-pin jack accepts input from a microphone uti-
When connecting a single straight key lizing a traditional YAESU HF transceiver pinout.

 DOWN
DOT DASH COMMON  UP
 +5V
  MIC GND
DOT DASH COMMON   MIC
 PTT
When connecting an electronic keyer paddle  GND
 FAST

Page 20 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Front Panel Controls & Switches
F(M-LIST) Button MODE Button
Press the button briefly to display the function menu Switch the radio modulation form (operating mode).
screen where the operation settings for a variety of Press this button to display the radio modulation
functions may be configured. form selection screen, then touch and select your de-
Press this button again to close the function menu sired modulation form.
screen.
Press and hold this button for more than one second
to display the menu list screen where the memory
channel data may be reviewed.
m While displaying the memory data, rotate the
[ MULTI ] knob to review all data in memory
channels.
Press this button again to close the memory list
screen.

MENU(SETUP) Button
Press this button briefly to display the menu mode
screen (see page 124) where you can set a variety
of functions.
Press this button again (or touch [BACK ] on the MULTI Knob
Adjust transmit output, microphone gain and opera-
touch panel) to close the menu mode screen.
tions of other functions (see page 24).
Press and hold this button for more than 1 second to
display the setup screen where you can configure the
following settings.
• MY CALL: Setting the call sign (see page 11)
• LAT/LON: Setting longitude/latitude (see page
118)
• TIME/DATE: Setting date and time (see page
10)
• CW TEXT: Entering CW TEXT (see page 89)
Press this button again to close the setup screen.

BAND Button
Switch the operation band ( operation frequency
band). Press this button to display the operation band
selection screen, then touch and select the desired
band.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 21

Front Panel Controls & Switches

13 12 10 11 20 17 18

23

19

24

21

25

14 15 16 22

A=B Button Note:

Pressing this button momentarily, sets the same fre-  Since the transceiver transmits automatically dur-
quency and data values of VFO-A to VFO-B. ing automatic tuning, make sure to connect an
antenna or dummy load before tuning up.
A/B Button  When the antenna or dummy load does not match
Pressing this button momentarily, exchanges the
the impedance, “HI-SWR” will appear on the
frequency and memory channel data, of VFO-A and
touch panel.
VFO-B.
C.S Button
RCL/STO Button Press this button momentarily to directly recall a fa-
Press and hold this button for more than one second
vorite Menu Selection.
to write the frequency and data currently set for
m To program a Menu selection to the C.S button,
VFO-A onto the quick memory bank (QMB) (see
press the MENU ( SETUP ) button to enter the
page 103).
Menu. Select the Menu item you want to set as
m 5 channels are available for QMB memories. the short cut. Press the C.S button, then press the
Press the button briefly to recall the data written onto
MENU(SETUP) button; this will lock in the se-
the quick memory banks (QMB) one by one.
lected Menu item as the short cut.
TUNE Button TXW Button
This is the on/off switch for the FT-991A Automatic
During a split operation, press and hold the TWX
Antenna Tuner.
button to listen on the transmitter frequency while
m Press the [TUNE] button briefly to display the holding the button.
“TUNER” indicator on the touch panel and acti-
vate the antenna tuner.
Press the [TUNE] button briefly again to turn the
“TUNER” indicator off and disable the antenna
tuner.
m Press the [TUNE] button for about 1 second to
start “automatic tuning”. The “TUNER” indica-
tor will flash.

Page 22 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Front Panel Controls & Switches
Main Tuning Dial Knob V/M Button
This large knob adjusts the operating frequency of This button toggles frequency control between VFO-
VFO-A. A and the memory system.
Rotate clockwise to increase the operating frequency m Pressing this button alternately recalls the VFO
and rotate counter-clockwise to decrease the operat- frequency data and the frequency data saved in a
ing frequency. memory channel by turns.
Operating Mode 1 Step 1 Dial Rotation
LSB/USB/CW/RTTY/ 5 Hz (100 Hz)
AM Button
1 kHz (20 kHz)
DATA-LSB/DATA- Pressing and holding this key for one second (until
USB/AM 10 Hz (100 Hz) 2 kHz (20 kHz) the double beep) copies the current operating data
FM/DATA-FM/C4FM 100 Hz (1 kHz) 20 kHz (200 kHz) into the currently selected memory channel, over-
Numbers in parentheses indicate steps when the FAST button is On. writing any previous data stored there.
Advice: Press this button briefly to display the memory check
The tuning steps for the Main Dial knob are set function screen, where the data saved in a memory
at the factory to: 10Hz ( SSB/AM ) , 5 Hz ( CW/ channel may be reviewed.
RTTY/DATA-LSB/DATA-USB) and 100 Hz (FM/
m While displaying memory data, rotate the MULTI
DATA-FM/C4FM) per step. knob to review the data in each memory channel.
In LSB, USB, CW, RTTY, DATA-LSB or DATA- Press this button again, to close the memory list
USB mode, the frequency change amount ( step screen.
width) may be toggled between “5Hz” and “10Hz”
by pressing the F(M-LIST) button, and then touch- SPLIT Button
ing [5/10Hz] on the LCD. Press this button to operate split frequency between
VFO-A (used for reception) and VFO-B (used for
FAST Button transmission) (see page 76).
Pressing this button will change the tuning of the
m Press and hold in the SPLIT button for one sec-
Main Tuning Dial knob (VFO-A) to a higher step ond to engage the “Quick Split” (see page 76)
rate. feature. VFO-B transmit will automatically be
Press this button to double the main dial frequency set to a frequency 5 kHz higher than the VFO-A
variation. “ ” in the LED indicator area will light receive frequency, with the same operating mode.
up. The transceiver will operate in the Split mode.
Press this button again to restore the frequency varia-
tion to the original value. “ ” will disappear. CLAR/VFO-B Knob
During the VFO-A operation, rotate this knob to ad-
LOCK Button just the clarifier.
This button toggles on/off locking of the Main Tun- During Split operation, this knob adjusts the operat-
ing Dial knob. ing frequency of VFO-B.
Press this button to lock the main dial operations.
“ ” will light up in the LED indicator area. RF GAIN Knob
Press this button again to unlock the main dial opera- Adjust the receiver gain of the high frequency and
tions. “ ” will disappear. mid-range frequency amplifier stages.
m Rotate the knob clockwise to increase the gain.
CLAR Button Rotate the knob fully clockwise to set the gain to
During reception, press this button, then rotate the the highest level for normal operations.
CLAR/VFO-B knob to adjust the VFO-A
RX clarifier offset value (see page 36). AF GAIN Knob
m The clarifier offset value (frequency) can be re- The AF GAIN knob sets the receiver audio volume
stored to “0 (zero)” by pressing the CLAR button level.
for more than 1 second. m Rotate the knob clockwise to increase the receiv-
m Depending on the menu mode “040 CLAR er audio volume level.
MODE SELECT” setting, this button can work as
the TX clarifier for changing only the transmit
frequency (see page 75) or RX/TX clarifier for
both receiving and transmitting ( see page 36,
75).

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 23

About the Display
TFT Liquid Crystal Display
A variety of information such as VFO-A/VFO-B frequencies, mode, S-meter will appear on the LCD.

Operating mode Operation frequency Clock

Mode (radio modulation form)

GPS signal capturing
HI-SWR
MULTI knob operation
VFO-B data
Icons
Clarifier operation
S-meter
Meters
Scope
Waterfall
Menu list
Memory list
Function menu Main control buttons

Operating Mode Indicators PROC Adjusts Speech Processor Gain

Displays the current operating mode. MONI Adjusts the monitor level
Adjusts the input level during data com-
VFO-A Operating in VFO-A mode DT-G (DT GAIN)
munication
MEM Operating in memory mode
Frequency tuning in the pre-pro-
MT The memory tuning feature is in use CH-D (CH DIAL)
grammed steps
QMB Operating with the quick memory feature
SPEED Adjusts keying speed
PMS Programmable memory scanning
APF Audio Peak Filter function
MCK The memory check function is in use
PITCH Adjusts the CW pitch
HOME Recalling the home channel
SQL Adjusts the squelch level
EMG Recalling the frequency for emergency contact
MCH Selects the memory channel
GRP Selects the memory group
Current Mode
(Modulation Form) Indicator Icons
Displays the current modulation form. Displays currently used functions.
HI-SWR Indicator TUNER Antenna tuner
Indicates antenna matching errors. ATAS Active Tuning Antenna System
When this warning appears, stop transmitting immedi- ATT The attenuator is in use
ately, check and repair the antenna, connectors, cables, SPLIT Running split operation
etc. DUP Recalling duplex memories
[+] Plus shift
MULTI Knob Operations
[-] Minus shift
Displays the functions operated with the MULTI knob
IPO The receiver amplifier is OFF
(see page 21).
AMP1
The receiver amplifier is ON
The progress bar shows the operation status. AMP2
The VOX function activates during data communi-
RF-P (RF PWR) Adjusts transmission output D.VOX
cation
MIC-G (MIC GAIN) Adjusts the microphone gain
VOX The VOX function is in use
NB-L Adjusts the noise blanker level
ENC The tone encoder is in use
SHIFT Shift function
DEC The tone decoder is in use
WIDTH Width function
DCS The digital code squelch is in use
NOTCH Notch function
CONT Contour function
DNR Digital Noise Reduction function

Page 24 FT-991 Operating Manual

 About the Display
TFT Liquid Crystal Display

PLAY The voice memory/contest memory keyer func- Clock

tions are in use. Indicates the current time.
REC PLAY: Playing, REC: Recording
When receiving a GPS signal, the time is set automati-
S-Meter cally.
Displays the reception signal strength. GPS Signal Capturing Indicator
Appears when an external GPS device is connected to
the GPS/CAT jack on the rear panel and GPS signals
To change the meter peak hold time
are being acquired.
1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select “009 BAR VFO-B Data/Clarifier Operation
MTR PEAK HOLD”. Displays operation status of the radio modulation form
3. Touch [SELECT], then rotate the and VFO-B frequency, etc.
MULTI knob to select the time to hold Displays the offset operation status and the clarifier off-
(OFF/0.5/1.0/2.0 seconds). set value, etc.
4. Touch [ENTER], then [BACK] or press the
MENU(SETUP) button. Main Control Buttons (SWAP)
Frequently used functions can be assigned to these but-
Meters tons.
The following information can be displayed below the
S-meter. To change the function assigned
The displayed information is switched each time [ME- to the main control button
TER] is touched on the panel. 1. Press the F(M-LIST) button.
PO Displays transmitter output power. 2. Touch [BACK]/[FWD] to display screens
ALC Displays ALC voltage “SWAP F1” to “SWAP F4”.
SWR Displays antenna matching state 3. Touch one of the “SWAP F1” to “SWAP
COMP Displays the speech processor compression level
F4” screens and confirm the function you
want to change flashes.
Displays the drain current of the final stage FET
ID
transistors
4. Touch [BACK]/[FWD] to display the func-
Displays the drain voltage of the final stage ampli-
tion you want to assign, then select and
VDD fier. touch the function.
The proper voltage is 13.8 V. 5. Press the F(M-LIST) button.

Scope/Waterfall
Displays a spectrum or waterfall when the scope func-
tion (see page 42) is in use.

Menu List
Displays the menu item list when making settings in the
menu mode.

Memory List
Displays the data saved in the memory channels.

Function Menu
Displays the function menu from which you can set a
variety of functions.
Touch [BACK]/[FWD] to switch the menu screen.

Operation Frequency
Displays the current operation frequency.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 25

About the Display
LED Indicators
Displays the transmit/receive status of the transceiver, and the main dial “FAST” and “LOCK”.

RX Indicator LOCK Indicators

TX Indicator FAST Indicators

Memory Mode Main Band Sub Band

RX/TX RX/TX TX
Indicators Indicators Indicator

RX Indicator (Green) Sub Band TX Indicator

This indicator illuminates when the squelch opens. Red (Right):
This indicator illuminates when the transmitter is active
TX Indicator (Red) on the main band (VFO-B).
This indicator illuminates during transmission.
FAST Indicators
Memory Mode RX/TX Indicators This indicator appears when the Main Tuning Dial knob
Green (Left): tuning rate is set to “fast” (see page 23).
This indicator illuminates when the receiver is active on
the memory channel. LOCK Indicators
This indicator appears when the Main Tuning Dial knob
Red (Right):
is locked (see page 23).
This indicator illuminates when the transmitter is active
on the memory channel.

Main Band RX/TX Indicators

Green (Left):
This indicator illuminates when the receiver is active on
the main band (VFO-A).
Red (Right):
This indicator illuminates when the transmitter is active
on the main band (VFO-A).

Page 26 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Rear Panel

1 2 6 10 11

3 4 5 7 8 9

GND GPS/CAT Jack

Use this terminal to connect the transceiver to a good This is the RS-232C jack for connecting a computer
earth ground, for safety and optimum performance. or a commercially available external GPS device.
Use a large diameter, short braided cable to make Connecting a computer to this jack, using a com-
the ground connections. For details on grounding the mercially available RS-232C straight cable, enables
transceiver, see “Grounding” on page 14. CAT control of the transceiver.

ANT Jack (144/430MHz) ① DCD

This is the M-type (European version: N-type) co- ② SERIAL OUT/RXD
⑨ ⑧ ⑦ ⑥ 　（GPS DATA IN）
axial connector for the 144 MHz band and 430 MHz
③ SERIAL IN
band antennas (50 ohms). ④ DTR
⑤ GND
RTTY/DATA Jack ⑥ DSR
This is the input/output jack to connect a terminal ⑤④ ③ ②① ⑦ RTS
unit for RTTY and TNC for packet communications. ⑧ CTS
⑨ RI
① DATA IN
① ② ② GND
③ PTT
DC IN Jack
③ ④ ④ SHIFT This is the DC power supply connection for the
⑤ DATA OUT transceiver. Use the supplied DC cable to connect di-
⑤ ⑥ ⑥ SQL rectly to a DC power supply, which must be capable
of supplying at least 23 A @13.8 VDC.
TUN/LIN Jack
Connect the optional external antenna tuner “FC-40”
or the linear amplifier “VL-1000”.
 +13V OUT
  TX GND
   GND
 TX D (BAND A)
   RX D (BAND B)
 BAND C
   RESET (BAND D)

 TX INH

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 27

Rear Panel
USB Jack
Connect a computer with a commercially available
USB cable to control the transceiver remotely from
the computer using the CAT command.
Inputting/Outputting audio signals and transmission
control can also be done from the computer.
Note:
 To control the transceiver remotely from the
computer, a USB driver is required. For details
on the USB driver, visit the Yaesu website.
 When using a USB cable connected to a com-
puter, the transceiver may change to the transmit
mode when the computer is started.

EXT SPKR Jack

This is the monaural jack to connect an external
speaker (4 Ω to 8 Ω).
Connecting an external speaker to this jack will de-
activate the internal speaker.

SIGNAL GND

REM/ALC Jack
Connect the optional remote control keypad “FH-2”.
When a device such as a linear amplifier is connect-
ed, this is an external ALC current input jack.
TX REQ

EXT ALC GND

NC

REMOTE GND

ANT Jack (HF/50MHz)

This is the M-type coaxial connector to connect HF
band and 50 MHz band antennas (50 ohms).

Cooling fan

Page 28 FT-991 Operating Manual

 MH-31A8J Microphone Switches

2 3 4

PTT Switch TONE Switch

Switches transmission/reception. Switches transmission sound quality.
Press to transmit and release to receive. Slide to the “1” side to make the transmit audio flat.
Slide to the “2” side to emphasize transmit audio.
DWN Button
Press the DWN (Down) button to scan the frequency
downward.

FST Button
Allows switching the frequency variation ( step ) ,
working in the same way as the FAST button on the
transceiver front panel.

UP Button
Press the UP button to scan the frequency upward.

Microphone
Speak into the microphone in a normal tone of voice
with the microphone 5 cm away from the mouth.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 29

Optional FH-2 Remote Control Switches
With the optional remote control keypad FH-2, you can record and transmit your voice (Voice Memory) and control the
Contest Memory Keyer during CW operation.
m On SSB/AM modes, five channels of storage and playback of voice memory (20 seconds each), using your own
voice for recording (see page 70).
m For the CW Memory Keyer, 5 channels are available for each of the MESSAGE Memory and the TEXT Memory (see
page 86).

1
5

3 6

Voice Memory: 5 Memory Channels for [P/B] Button

the Memory Keyer When entering text, a space may be inserted where
In the case of Voice Memory, up to 20 seconds of the cursor is flashing.
audio may be stored on each channel.
[LOCK] Button
“MESSAGE Memory” and “TEXT Memory” are
The FH-2 key buttons may be locked by setting this
available for the Contest Memory Keyer.
switch to “ON”.
Each “MESSAGE Memory” channel is capable
of retaining a 50-character CW message using the [MEM] Button
PARIS standard for characters and word length. Press this button to store either a Voice Memory, or a
Each “TEXT Memory” channel is capable of retain- Contest Keyer Memory.
ing a maximum of 50 characters.
[DEC] Button
Cursor Buttons When utilizing the sequential contest number ca-
When programming the Contest Memory Keyer, pability of the Contest Keyer, press this button to
these buttons are used to move the cursor and select decrement (decrease) the current Contest Number by
the text characters. one digit (i.e. to back up from #198 to #197, etc.).
The cursor may be moved in 4 different directions
(up/down/right/left).
Usually, these buttons are used for tuning the VFO
frequency. Press the [p]/[q] buttons to change the
frequency in the same increments as the microphone
[UP]/[DWN] switches. Press the [t]/[u] buttons to
change the frequency by 100 kHz steps.

Page 30 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Optional MH-36E8J Microphone Switches
The optional MH-36E8J is a handheld microphone equipped with the DTMF function that enables DTMF (Dual Tone
Multi Frequencies) transmission.
A lamp switch illuminates the DTMF keypad for easy viewing in the dark.

1 3 2
4

5 7

6 8

9 10

DWN Button DTMF Keypad

Press to tune down, hold to start scanning. Press a key button while holding the PTT switch to
transmit a DTMF tone.
UP Button
Press to tune up, hold to start scanning. LOCK Switch
Slide upward to lock the microphone controls and
Microphone Element buttons.
Speak across the face of the mic from about two
inches away. LAMP Switch
Slide upward to illuminate the keypad.
DTMF Indicator
When the DTMF is transmitted, this indicator glows A Button
red. This activates an accessory function.
Activates the “first” mode when used with the FT-
PTT Switch 991A.
Press and hold to transmit.
B Button
This activates a second accessory function.
This button has no function when used with the FT-
991A.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 31

Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands
Before turning on the main power, please verify the following items once more.
 Have you made all ground connections securely? See page 14 for details.
 Do you have your antenna(s) connected to the rear-panel Antenna jack(s)? See page 15 for details.
 Is your microphone (and/or key or paddle) connected? See pages 16, 17 for details.
 If using a linear amplifier, have all interconnections been successfully completed? See pages 18 for details.
 Please rotate the AF GAIN control to the fully counter-clockwise position, to avoid a loud blast of audio when the
transceiver turns on. See page 23 for details.

Page 32 FT-991 Operating Manual

Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands
Here is the typical start-up procedure for normal operation:

ON/OFF Switch
BAND Button

MODE Button Main Tuning Dial Knob AF GAIN Knob

1. Turn on the external DC power supply. displayed by pressing the BAND button. Each
2. Press and hold in the front-panel ON/OFF switch Amateur band key may similarly have up to three
until the transceiver turns on. frequency/mode settings applied. See page 39
3. The transceiver will start up on 7.000.00 MHz LSB, for details.
(or the previously used operating frequency ) and 6. Press the MODE button to display the available se-
normal operation may begin. lections.
Note: Touch the corresponding key to select the desired
To turn power off, press and hold in the front panel operating mode.
ON/OFF switch for one second. Advice:
4. Rotate the AF GAIN knob to set a comfortable au-  By convention in the Amateur bands, LSB is
dio level of the incoming signals or noise. Clockwise used on the 7 MHz and lower bands (with the
rotation of the AF GAIN knob increases the volume exception of 60 meters), while USB is utilized on
level. the 14 MHz and higher bands.
Note:  When changing modes from SSB to CW, you
will observe a frequency shift on the display.
When using headphones, start by rotating the AF
This shift represents the BFO offset between the
GAIN knob counter-clockwise, then bring the vol-
“zero beat” frequency and the audible CW pitch
ume level up after you put the headphones on. This (tone) you can hear (the pitch is programmed via
will minimize the chance of damage to your hearing the Menu item “059 CW FREQ DISPLAY”), even
caused by an unexpectedly high audio level. though the actual tone that you hear is not chang-
5. Press the BAND button to display the list of Amateur ing.
bands on the LCD, then touch a key corresponding  To eliminate noise while the transceiver is not re-
to the band on which you wish to begin operation. ceiving any signal, press the F(M-LIST) button,
Advice: then touch [SQL] on the LCD. “SQL” will ap-
 One-touch selection of each Amateur band be- pear on the LCD and the MULTI knob will func-
tween 1.8 and 50 MHz, 144 MHz, and 430 MHz tion as the squelch knob. Rotate the MULTI knob
is provided. to adjust the squelch until the noise disappears.
 Touch and hold [14] on the screen displayed by
pressing the BAND button to selection 5 MHz is
provided.
 The FT-991A utilizes a triple band-stack VFO
selection technique, which permits storing up to
three favorite frequencies and modes onto each
VFO band register. For example, you may store
one frequency each on 14 MHz CW, RTTY, and
USB, then recall these frequencies by successive,
momentary touches of the [ 14 ] on the screen

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 33

Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands
7. Rotate the Main Tuning Dial knob to tune around the
band, and begin normal operation.
Advice:
 Clockwise rotation of the Main Tuning Dial knob
increases the operating frequency, one “step”
of the synthesizer at a time; similarly, counter-
clockwise rotation of the Main Tuning Dial knob
will decrease the frequency. Two settings, one
“normal” and one “fast”, are available for each
operating mode. Pressing the FAST button en-
gages the “Fast” tuning selection (see chart be-
low).
Main Tuning Dial Knob Tuning Rate
Operating Mode 1 Step 1 Dial Rotation
LSB/USB/CW/RTTY/ 5 Hz (100 Hz) 1 kHz (20 kHz)
DATA-LSB/DATA-
USB/AM 10 Hz (100 Hz) 2 kHz (20 kHz)
FM/DATA-FM/C4FM 100 Hz (1 kHz) 20 kHz (200 kHz)
Numbers in parentheses indicate steps when the FAST button is On.

 If you want to make rapid frequency changes,

there are several techniques available:
 Direct keyboard entry of the frequency.
 Use the microphone UP/DWN scanning keys,
if your microphone is so equipped.

Page 34 FT-991 Operating Manual

Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands
Operation on 60-Meter (5 MHz) Band (U.S. and U.K. version only)
The recently-released 60-meter band is covered, in the FT-991A, by fixed memory channels. These channels are set to
USB or CW, and they appear between the “last” PMS channel (“P9U”) and the first “regular” memory channel (Channel
1):
1. Press the V/M button once to enter the “Memory” CLAR/VFO-B Knob
mode; the “MEM” icon will appear in the display.
2. Touch [MCH] on the screen displayed by pressing
the F(M-LIST) button. The “MCH” notation and a
memory channel number will appear on the display
to signify that rotation of the MULTI knob will allow
selection of the memory channel.

Main Tuning Dial Knob

V/M Button

3. Memory channels ( “5-01” through “5-10” ) are Channel Frequency

pre-programmed, at the factory, with the permitted Number U.S. Version U.K. Version
frequencies in the 5 MHz band, and the USB or CW 5-01 5.332000 MHz (SSB) 5.260000 MHz (SSB)
5-02 5.348000 MHz (SSB) 5.280000 MHz (SSB)
mode is automatically selected on these channels.
5-03 5.358500 MHz (SSB) 5.290000 MHz (SSB)
4. To exit from 60-meter operation and return to the 5-04 5.373000 MHz (SSB) 5.368000 MHz (SSB)
VFO mode, just press the V/M button. 5-05 5.405000 MHz (SSB) 5.373000 MHz (SSB)
5-06 5.332000 MHz (CW) 5.400000 MHz (SSB)
Note: 5-07 5.348000 MHz (CW) 5.405000 MHz (SSB)
The frequencies and operating mode for 5 MHz band 5-08 5.358500 MHz (CW) -
operation are fixed, and may not be changed. 5-09 5.373000 MHz (CW) -
5-10 5.405000 MHz (CW) -

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 35

Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands
CLAR (Clarifier) Operation
The CLAR button and CLAR/VFO-B knob are used to offset the receive frequency, the transmit frequency, or both,
from their settings on the VFO-A frequency. Four small numbers on the TFT Display show the current Clarifier offset.
The Clarifier controls on the FT-991A are designed to allow setting a preset offset (up to ±9.99 kHz) without actually
retuning, and then to activate it via the Clarifier CLAR button. This feature is ideal for following a drifting station, or
for setting the small frequency offsets sometimes utilized in DX “Split” work.

Here is the technique for utilizing the Clarifier: CLAR/VFO-B Knob

1. Press the CLAR button. The “RX” notation will ap- CLAR Button
pear in the TFT Display, and the programmed offset
will be applied to the receive frequency.
2. Rotation of the CLAR/VFO-B knob will allow you
to modify your initial offset on the fly. Offsets of up
to ±9.99 kHz may be set using the Clarifier.

To cancel Clarifier operation, press the CLAR button.

The “RX” notation will disappear from the display.
Advice:
Turning the Clarifier off merely cancels the applica-
tion of the programmed offset from the receive and/or
the transmit frequencies. To clear the Clarifier offset,
and reset it to “zero,” press and hold the CLAR button.
The programmed offset is displayed in the small multi-
channel window of the frequency display.

Page 36 FT-991 Operating Manual

Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands
LOCK
You may lock the setting of the Main Tuning Dial knob (for VFO-A frequency tuning) to prevent accidental frequency
change.

Main Tuning Dial Knob Lock

To lock the Main Tuning Dial knob, press the LOCK LOCK Button
button that is located to the right of the Main Tuning
Dial knob.
 “Lock” in the LED indicator area will light up
To unlock the Dial setting, and restore normal tuning,
press the LOCK button once more.

LOCK Indicators

DIMMER
The illumination level of the TFT display and LED indicators (above the Main Tuning Dial knob), may be adjusted via
Menu items 007 and 008.

To adjust the illumination level: MENU Button

1. Press the MENU button to enter the Menu mode.

2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “007
DIMMER LED” (for LED indicators) or “008 DIM-
MER TFT” (for TFT display).
3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD then rotate the
MULTI knob to select the desired illumination level.
MULTI Knob

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4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD, then touch [BACK]

on the LCD or press the MENU button to save the
new setting and exit to normal operation.

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FT-991 Operating Manual Page 37

Basic Operation: Receiving on Amateur Bands
VFO COLOR
The background color of the VFO-A frequency in the TFT display may be selected via Menu item 006.

1. Press the MENU button to enter the Menu mode. Background color

2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “006

DISPLAY COLOR”.
3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to select from the following colors:
BLUE (default) / GRAY / GREEN / ORANGE /
PURPLE / RED / SKY BLUE

MENU Button

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4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD, then touch [BACK]

MULTI Knob
on the LCD or press the MENU button to save the
new setting and exit to normal operation.

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Page 38 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Convenience Features
Band Stack Operation
The FT-991A utilizes a triple band-stack VFO selection technique that permits storing of up to three favorite frequen-
cies and modes onto each band VFO register. For example, one frequency each on 14 MHz CW, RTTY, and USB may
be stored and then recalled by successive, momentary touches of [14] on the screen displayed by the BAND button.
Each Amateur band key may similarly have up to three frequency/mode settings applied. Note that only the VFO-A sys-
tem has the band stacks.
A typical setup, for the 14 MHz band, might be arranged like this:

1. Program 14.025 MHz, CW Mode, then press the BAND Button

BAND button, and then touch [14] on the LCD.

2. Program 14.080 MHz, RTTY Mode, then press the
BAND button, and then touch [14] on the LCD.
3. Program 14.195 MHz, SSB Mode, then press the
BAND button, and then touch [14] on the LCD.
To individually recall each of the three stored operating
states, press the BAND button, and then touch [14] on
the screen repeatedly.
【BAND】【14】

【BAND】【14】

【BAND】【14】

Advice:
The 5MHz band stack may be recalled by touching and holding [14] on the LCD in a similar operation.

C.S (Custom Switch)

The front panel C.S button may be programmed to directly access an often-used Menu Mode selection.

C.S Setup MENU button C.S button

1. Press the MENU button to engage the Menu mode;
the Menu list will appear on the display.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the Menu item you
want to access with the front panel C.S button.
3. Press the C.S button to lock in your selection.
4. Press the MENU button or touch [BACK] on the
LCD to save the new configuration and exit to nor-
mal operation. MULTI Knob

Menu Selection Recall via C.S button

Press the C.S button.
The programmed Menu item will appear on the display.
Press the MENU button or touch [BACK] on the LCD
exit to normal operation.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 39

Convenience Features
AMS (Automatic Mode Select) Operation
The transceiver has the AMS (Automatic Mode Select) function which enables the transceiver to automatically select
the most appropriate option out of the three communication modes according to the received signal while operating in
C4FM mode.
Besides C4FM digital signals, analog signals (FM) are also identified in order to automatically match the communica-
tion mode of the partner station.
Note:
The AMS function recognizes the three modes listed in the following table. Other communication modes cannot be rec-
ognized.

Operating Mode Display Explanation of Modes

V/D mode DN As the audio signal error is detected and repaired at the
(simultaneous voice and data When AMS is “ON”: Red same time as the transmission of the digital audio signal,
communication mode) When AMS is “OFF”: Light blue it becomes more difficult for conversations to be cut off. A
basic digital mode of C4FM FDMA.
Voice FR mode VW Digital voice data is transmitted using the entire 12.5 kHz
(Voice full-rate mode) When AMS is “ON”: Red bandwidth. High quality voice communication is possible.
When AMS is “OFF”: Light blue
Analog FM mode AN Analog communication mode using the FM mode.
Only when AMS is “ON”: Lights red This mode is effective for communication when the signal
strength is so weak that the voice is cut off midway in the
digital mode.

1. Press the MODE button, and then touch the corre- MODE Button
sponding key on the LCD to select the C4FM operat-
ing mode. The “C4FM” icon appears in the display.

2. Touch [AMS] on the LCD. The AMS function will In the V/D mode (“DN” displayed), the position infor-
switched to “ON” and the communication mode will mation is included in the transmitted signal during the
be switched to match the received signal. conversation, but in the Voice FR mode ( “VW” dis-
played), the position information is not included.

Note:

Page 40 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Convenience Features
AMS (Automatic Mode Select) Operation
Setting the Operation of the AMS Function
Using the AMS function switches the communication mode to match the received signal but you can alternatively
select and lock the transmission mode.
1. Press the MENU (SETUP ) button to enter the MENU(SETUP) Button

Menu mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “090
AMS TX MODE”.
3. Touch [SELECT] on the LCD, rotate the MULTI
knob to select the desired operation (see the fol-
lowing table).

MULTI Knob

4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set-

ting.
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5. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch

[BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

Available Explanation of Function

Settings
AUTO TX/RX The operating mode is automatically selected from the three communication modes to match the received signal.
MANUAL TX/RX The operating mode is automatically selected from three communication modes to match the received signal.
Pressing the Microphone PTT switch momentarily, toggles between the Digital (C4FM) and Analog (FM)
communication modes.
DN RX The RX mode is automatically selected from the three communication modes to match the received signal.
TX The TX mode is automatically changed to the “DN” mode.
VW RX The RX mode is automatically selected from the three communication modes to match the received signal.
TX The TX mode is automatically changed to the “VW” mode.
ANALOG RX The RX mode is automatically selected from the three communication modes to match the received signal.
TX The TX mode is automatically changed to the “FM” mode.

Toggling to the Digital Communication Mode

Without using the AMS function, you can select and lock the digital communication mode (DN or VW).
1. Touch [AMS] on the screen to set the AMS func-
tion to “OFF”.
2. Touching [DIGITAL] on the screen switches the
digital communication mode between the follow-
ing modes.
DN (V/D Mode): As the audio signal error is de-
tected and repaired at the same time as the
transmission of the digital audio signal,
it becomes more difficult for conversa- VW (FR Mode): Digital voice data is transmit-
tions to be cut off. A basic digital mode of ted using the entire 12.5 kHz bandwidth.
C4FM FDMA. High quality voice communication is pos-
sible.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 41

Convenience Features
SCOPE
The SCOPE function provides a real time spectrum display of the band conditions. Both strong and weak signals can
be clearly displayed on the TFT screen. In the MANUAL mode, the scope frequency spectrum is scanned one time and
displayed. In the “Continuous Sweeping mode”, the scope spectrum is repeatedly swept and displayed. The scope sweep
and span, the color of the SPECTRUM display, and the color of the WATER FALL display may be optimized according
to your preference.

Touch [SWEEP] on the LCD to display the band condi- Reception frequency Transmission frequency
tions (spectrum).
 The transceiver is equipped with two types of sweep-
ing mode: “MANUAL mode” and “Continuous
sweeping mode”. Refer to the advice below to select
the optimal mode according to your preferences and
purposes.
Advice:
 “Touch [SWEEP] on the LCD to access the Manual
mode. Each time [SWEEP] on the LCD is touched,
a new scan of the spectrum scope is shown on the
TFT display.
 Touch and hold [SWEEP] on the LCD to cause the
spectrum scope to scan continuously until [SWEEP]
on the LCD is touched again.
 “Spectrum display mode” or “Waterfall display Lights up when transmission frequency
mode” may be selected in Menu item “115 SCP is outside of the display range
DISPLAY MODE”. Reception frequency: Green
 Width of scope display may be set in Menu item “116 Transmission frequency: Red
SCP SPAN FREQ”.
 Color of the SPECTRUM display may be set in
Menu item “117 SPECTRUM COLOR”. Width of scope
 Color of the WATER FALL display may be set in
Menu item “118 WATER FALL COLOR”.

Example of waterfall display

Page 42 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Convenience Features
SCOPE
Sweep Mode
Two sweep modes are available for the scope function as described below.

MANUAL Mode
Touch [SWEEP] on the LCD to sweep across the band one time, and display band conditions.

Continuous Sweeping Mode

Touch and hold [SWEEP] on the LCD to begin the continuous sweep operation. The spectrum scope will start
sweeping the band segment continuously. While rotating the main dial, you can continuously monitor the band
condition.
To stop sweeping, touch [SWEEP] on the LCD again.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 43

Convenience Features
More Frequency Navigation Techniques
Keyboard Frequency Entry Setting with the MULTI Knob
The Operating frequency may be entered directly into Rotate the MULTI knob to set the frequency in the pre-
the current VFO, using the display screen keyboard by programmed frequency steps. The frequency step can be
pressing the front panel BAND button. changed.
Example: Enter 14.250.00 MHz 1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function
1. Press the BAND button to begin the direct frequency menu list. Touch the [CH DIAL] icon to activate this
entry process. function and cause the MULTI knob to function as
2. Touch [ENT] on the LCD. The first digit of the fre- the frequency adjustment knob.
quency (the leftmost digit) will blink.
3. Enter, in order, the digits of the operating frequency, CH-D (CH DIAL) indicator

touching the keys on the LCD

The decimal point after the “MHz” portion of the
frequency must be entered, but no decimal point is
required after the “kHz” portion.
4. Touch [ENT] on the LCD once more to complete
the operating frequency entry. A short “beep” will
confirm that the entry was successful, and the new
operating frequency will appear on the display.

2. Touch [CH DIAL] to select the desired frequency

step. Touching [CH DIAL] switches the frequency
as follows.

Operating Mode Frequency Step

AM 2.5  5  9  10  12.5  25 
2.5  …
SSB/CW/RTTY/ 1  2.5  5  1  …
DATA-LSB/DATA-USB
Advice: FM/C4FM/ 5  6.25  10  12.5  15  20
DATA-FM  25  5  …
If you attempt to enter a frequency outside the op-
erating range of 30 kHz - 56 MHz, 118 MHz - 164 3. Rotate the MULTI knob to change the frequency in
MHz or 420 MHz - 470 MHz the microprocessor the selected frequency steps.
will ignore the attempt, and will return to the previ-
ous operating frequency. If this happens, please try
again, taking care not to repeat the error in the fre-
quency entry process.

Page 44 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Convenience Features
More Frequency Navigation Techniques
Using the UP/DWN Buttons of the
Supplied MH-31A8J Hand Microphone
The UP/DWN buttons on the supplied MH-31A8J Hand
Microphone may also be used to manually scan the fre-
quency upward or downward.
In modes other than AM/FM, DWN FST UP
the frequency changes by the
same step as the main dial.
When the microphone FST
button is pressed, the tuning
rate increases by a factor of
ten, in a manner similar to
the transceiver front panel
FAST button.
The frequency change
amount (step size) differs de-
pending on the preset modu-
lation form and FST button
condition.

FST FST
Operating UP DWN + +
Mode UP DWN
CW/RTTY/
DATA-LSB/ +5 Hz −5 Hz +100 Hz −100 Hz
DATA-USB
LSB/USB/AM +10 Hz −10 Hz +100 Hz −100 Hz
FM/C4FM/
+5 kHz −5 kHz +50 kHz −50 kHz
DATA-FM

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 45

Convenience Features
Receiver Operation (Front End Block Diagram)
The FT-991A includes a wide range of special features to suppress the many types of interference that may be encoun-
tered on the HF bands. However, real world interference conditions are constantly changing, so optimum setting of the
controls is somewhat of an art, requiring familiarity with the types of interference and the subtle effects of some of the
controls. Therefore, the following information is provided as a general guideline for typical situations, and a starting
point for your own experimentation.
The FT-991A interference-fighting circuitry begins in its “RF” stages, and continues throughout the entire receiver sec-
tion. FT-991A allows configuration of the features described below.

CONTOUR Filter DNR (Digital Noise Reduction)

The DSP Contour filter has the unique ability to pro- The DSP’s Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) feature uti-
vide either a null or a peak in tunable segments of the lizes 15 different mathematical algorithms to analyze
receiver passband. You may suppress interference and and suppress different noise profiles encountered on the
excessive frequency components of an incoming signal, HF/50 MHz bands. Choose the selection that provides
or you may peak those tunable frequency segments. The the best noise suppression, and allows the signal to rise
level of the null or peak, and the bandwidth, over which up out of the noise.
it is applied, are adjustable via the Menu.
AGC
IF SHIFT The AGC system automatically adapts to changing sig-
The passband center frequency of the IF DSP filter may nal and fading characteristics, making reception possible
be moved up or down by adjusting this control. under the most difficult conditions.

IF WIDTH
The width of the IF DSP filtering may be adjusted using The FT-991A uses the 15 kHz roofing filter on
this control. AM/FM/C4FM modes. All the other modes use
the 3 KHz filter automatically. There is no manual
IF NOTCH
selection possible.
The IF Notch filter is a high-Q notch filter that can elim-
inate, or significantly reduce an interfering carrier.

DNF (Digital Notch filter)

When multiple interfering carriers are encountered dur-
ing reception, the Digital Notch Filter can significantly
reduce the level of these signals.

VHF/ HF/
UHF 50MHz
ANT ANT

RF 1st IF 2nd IF 3rd IF

69.450 MHz 9 MHz 24 kHz
HF/50MHz
RF AMP/ ROOFING 1st 3rd DSP
ATT BPF IPO FILTER IF AMP MCF IF AMP UNIT

144MHz 1st Local 3 kHz 2nd Local

15 kHz 3rd Local
LPF BPF RF AMP
2nd IF
430MHz 1st Local 450 kHz
C4FM
LPF RF AMP BPF FM DET DSP UNIT

2nd Local FM C4FM

Front End Block Diagram

Page 46 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Interference Rejection
ATT (Attenuator)
When the desired signal is extremely strong or the noise level is high on a low frequency band, activate the attenuator to
reduce the incoming signal from the antenna.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [ATT] on F(M-LIST) Button

the LCD. The “ATT” indicator will appear in the

DSP display.
Advice:
 The incoming signal level is reduced by 12dB
(Signal voltage is reduced to 1/4 compared to OFF).

Displays ATT

2. To restore full signal strength through the Attenuator

circuit, touch [ATT] on the LCD to return the ATT
display to the “OFF” position.

Advice:
If the noise level is high or the received signal is extremely strong, the incoming signal level can be suppressed with the
IPO/ATT settings.
If the S-meter fluctuates S-3 or more in the noise level, or the received signal is extremely strong and it causes a high S-
meter indication (+20dB or more), activate the attenuator.
Since IPO does not only attenuate the incoming signal, but also improves the cross modulation characteristic, try to ac-
tivate the IPO first. If the signal is still strong, also use the ATT. In this way, you can attenuate the incoming signal and
noise effectively.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 47

Interference Rejection
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization)
The IPO feature allows the operator to optimize the characteristics of the receiver front end, contingent on the current
noise level and the strength of incoming signals.

Press the F ( M-LIST ) button to display the function F(M-LIST) Button

menu list. Touch the [IPO] function repeatedly, to set

the desired characteristic of the receiver front end, ac-
cording to the chart below.
AMP1: Amplifies the incoming signals, using a low
distortion RF preamplifier (gain: approx. 10
dB).
AMP2: Amplifies the incoming signals, using a
2-stage low-distortion RF preamplifier (total
gain: approx. 20 dB).
IPO: Bypasses the RF preamplifier, yielding direct
feed to the first mixer.

About 10dB About 10dB

1.8 MHz ~ 56 MHz

Note:
AMP1 does not function below the 1.8 MHz frequency
range.
The selected receiver RF preamplifier will be indicated
in the IPO column of the Key Function Display on the
TFT screen.
Displays IPO

Advice:
 On the 10 MHz and lower bands, it is generally not
necessary to use any preamplifier at all; selecting the
“IPO” position as described above will increase the
strong-signal-handling capability of the receiver, and
generally result in more pleasant reception due to the
reduced ambient noise level. If you can hear band
noise with the preamplifiers disengaged, then a pre-
amplifier is generally not needed.

Page 48 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Interference Rejection
IF Noise Blanker (NB) Operation
The FT-991A includes an effective IF Noise Blanker, which can significantly reduce noise caused by automotive igni-
tion systems.
Note:
The NB function may be less effective on some other types of interference.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function F(M-LIST) Button

menu list. Touch the [NB] function icon briefly to

reduce short duration pulse noise like that from
switching transients, automobile ignitions and power
lines. The Noise Blanker will be set to “ON”.

2. If desired, the Noise Blanker level may be adjusted

via Menu item “025 NB LEVEL” to the point where
the offending noise is best reduced or eliminated.
See box below for details.
Advice:
 The noise attenuation can be selected from
10dB/30dB/50dB via Menu item “024 NB RE-
JECTION”.
3. To end Noise Blanker operation, touch [NB] on the
TFT display once more. The “OFF” will appear in
the TFT display, confirming the Noise Blanker is no
longer in operation.

Adjusting the Noise Blanker Level

1. Press the MENU button to engage the Menu MENU button

mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “025
NB LEVEL”.
3. Touch [SELECT] on the LCD

MULTI Knob

   0$ 4' , ' %6+ 1 0 F$

   0$ .'8 ' . 
   $''2 . ' 8 ' . 

4. Rotate the MULTI knob to the point where the

offending noise is best reduced or eliminated.
Note:
Excessive increase of the NB level may cause
distorted receive audio.
5. Touch [ ENTER ] on the LCD, then press the    0$ 4' , ' %6+ 1 0 F$

MENU button or touch [BACK] on the LCD to

   0$ .'8 ' . 
   $''2 . ' 8 ' . 

lock in the new setting and exit to normal opera-

tion.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 49

Interference Rejection
CONTOUR Control Operation
The Contour filter system provides a gentle perturbation of the IF filter passband. The Contour is set to either suppress,
or boost specific frequency components, and thus enhances the sound and readability of a received signal.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function F(M-LIST) Button

menu list. Touch [CONT] to activate the CONTOUR

function and set the MULTI knob as the CONTOUR
adjustment knob.
2. Touch [CONT ] on the TFT display. The Contour
function will be set to “ON”.

CONT (Contour) indicator

CONT (Contour) level indicator MULTI Knob

Refer to Figure “B”, this illustrates a “dip” in the

center of the Contour filter passband. The Con-
tour filter places a low-Q “notch” in the passband,
per the settings of Menu items “112 CONTOUR
LEVEL” and “113 CONTOUR WIDTH”. Counter-
clockwise rotation of the MULTI knob causes the
3. Rotate the MULTI knob to achieve the most natural notch to move toward a lower frequency within
sounding audio reproduction of the incoming signal. the passband, while clockwise rotation causes the
Advice: notch to move toward a higher frequency within
 Rotate the MULTI knob to display the Contour the passband. By removing interference or un-
center frequency (10 Hz to 3,200 Hz) below the wanted frequency components of the incoming
[CONT] indicator. signal, it is possible to make the desired signal
 The level indicator shows the amount of attenua- rise out of the background noise/interference, and
tion for your reference. significantly enhance intelligibility.
4. To cancel Contour tuning, touch [ CONT ] on the
TFT display.
Advice: A B C
 The Contour circuit operation will be set to “OFF”.
 Touching [CONT] changes the Contour circuit op-
eration between “ON” and “OFF”.
 The Contour function attenuation and bandwidth can
be set in Menu items “112 CONTOUR LEVEL” and
“113 CONTOUR WIDTH” (refer to the instruction IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH
on the right).

MULTI MULTI MULTI

Quick Point:
By judicious use of the Contour filter, the “shoulder” of the passband response may be altered, or components may be
removed from within the passband, allowing the desired signal to rise above the background noise and interference in a
manner not obtainable with other filtering systems.

Page 50 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Interference Rejection
IF SHIFT Operation (SSB/CW/RTTY/DATA Modes)
IF SHIFT permits moving the DSP filter passband higher or lower, without changing the pitch of the incoming signal,
and thus reduces or eliminates interference. Because the tuned carrier frequency is not varied, there is no need to re-tune
the operating frequency to eliminate the interference. The total passband tuning range for the IF SHIFT system is ±1.2
kHz.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function F(M-LIST) Button
menu list. Touch [SHIFT] to reduce the interference.
The MULTI knob functions as the SHIFT adjustment
knob.
SHIFT indicator

SHIFT level indicator

MULTI Knob

2. Rotate the MULTI knob to the left or right to reduce

interfering signals.
Advice:
 Rotate the MULTI knob to display the shift offset
of the IF filter (−1,200 Hz to +1,200 Hz) below
the [SHIFT] indicator.
 The level indicator shows the shift offset direc-
tion for your reference.

Referring to Figure “A”, note the depiction of the

IF DSP filter as the thick line, with MULTI knob
in the 12 o’clock position. In Figure “B”, an in-
terfering signal has appeared inside the original
passband. In Figure “C”, you can see the effect
of rotating the MULTI knob. The interference
level is reduced by moving the filter passband so
that the interference is outside of the passband.

A B C
Desired Signal Desired Signal Desired Signal

QRM QRM

IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH

MULTI MULTI MULTI

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 51

Interference Rejection
WIDTH (IF DSP Bandwidth) Tuning (SSB/CW/RTTY/DATA Modes)
The IF WIDTH tuning system allows you to vary the width of the DSP IF passband, to reduce or eliminate interference.
Moreover, the bandwidth may actually be expanded from its default setting, should you wish to enhance incoming sig-
nal fidelity when interference on the band is low.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function F(M-LIST) Button

menu list. Touch the [WIDTH] icon to activate this

function and cause the MULTI knob to function as
the WIDTH adjustment knob.

WIDTH indicator

WIDTH level indicator

MULTI Knob

Advice:
 To increase the bandwidth, rotate the knob clock-
wise.
 Rotate the MULTI knob to display the bandwidth
2. Rotate the MULTI knob counter-clockwise to narrow of the IF filter below the [WIDTH] indicator (Re-
the bandwidth and reduce interference. fer to the instruction below).
 For reference, the level indicator on the TFT dis-
play shows the bandwidth.

Referring to Figure “B”, you can see the default

bandwidth of the SSB mode. A B C
By rotating the MULTI knob to the left, the band-
width will narrow (see Figure “A”), while rota-
tion of the MULTI knob to the right, will increase
the bandwidth as depicted in Figure “C”.

The default bandwidths, and total bandwidth ad-

IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH
justment range, will vary according to the operat-
ing mode:
SSB Mode: 1.8 kHz - 3.2 kHz (default: 2.4 kHz).
CW Mode: 500 Hz - 3 kHz (default: 2.4 kHz)
RTTY/DATA (LSB, USB ) Modes: 500 Hz - 3
kHz (default: 500 Hz) MULTI MULTI MULTI
AM Mode: Fixed at 9 kHz
FM/DATA-FM/C4FM Modes: Fixed at 16 kHz

Page 52 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Interference Rejection
WIDTH (IF DSP Bandwidth) Tuning (SSB/CW/RTTY/DATA Modes)
Using IF SHIFT and WIDTH Together Advice:
The IF SHIFT and Variable IF WIDTH features The WIDTH and SHIFT features are the pri-
together form a very effective interference-fight- mary tools to use for best interference reduction.
ing filtering system. After narrowing the bandwidth (WIDTH) and/
or adjusting the center of the passband (SHIFT),
For example, in Figure “A”, you can see how in- the Contour control may then yield additional
terference has appeared both on the high and low signal-enhancement benefits on the net residual
sides of the desired signal. Touch [WIDTH] on bandwidth. Even more, the IF NOTCH Filter
the LCD, the interference from one side can be (described later) may also be used, in conjunc-
eliminated (Figure “B”). Next, rotate the MULTI tion with these filter systems, to significant ad-
knob to re-position the passband (Figure “C”), vantage.
the interference on the opposite side can be re-
moved, without re-introducing the interference
previously eliminated in Figure “B”.

A B C

Desired Signal Desired Signal Desired Signal

QRM QRM QRM

QRM QRM QRM

IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 53

Interference Rejection
NARROW (NAR) One-Touch IF Filter Selection
Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function menu list. Touch the [NAR/WIDE] button to enable one-touch,
mode-specific, selection of a narrow IF DSP filter setting that does not require resetting the bandwidth control to the
WIDTH/SHIFT system.

Touching [NAR/WIDE] on the LCD once more returns F(M-LIST) Button

the bandwidth control to the WIDTH/SHIFT system.

The factory default bandwidths are:
Operating Mode [NAR/WIDE] Touch Key
“ON” “OFF”
SSB 200 Hz - 1.8 kHz 1.8 - 3.0 kHz
(1.5 kHz) (2.4 kHz)
CW 50 - 500 Hz 500 Hz - 3.0 kHz
(500 Hz) (2.4 kHz)
RTTY/DATA-LSB/ 50 - 500 Hz 500 Hz - 3.0 kHz
DATA-USB (300 Hz) (500 Hz)
AM 6 kHz 9 kHz
FM/DATA-FM 9 kHz 16 kHz
(28/50/144/430
MHz Bands)
: Depends on the [WIDTH] setting
( ): Default Bandwidth

Advice:
 If [NAR/WIDE] on the LCD has been touched to
engage the narrow filter, you may further adjust the
narrow IF bandwidth by touching [WIDTH] on the
TFT display and rotating the MULTI knob. The IF
SHIFT may also be operated.
 When in the FM mode, touching [NAR/WIDE] on
the TFT display will narrow both transmit and re-
ceive bandwidths.

Page 54 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Interference Rejection
IF NOTCH Filter Operation (SSB/CW/RTTY/DATA/AM Modes)
The IF NOTCH filter is a highly effective system that allows cutting out an interfering beat note or other carrier signal
from inside the receiver passband.

1. Press the F(MLIST) button to show the functions F(M-LIST) Button

listed on the TFT display.

2. Touch [ NOTCH ] on the TFT display. The Notch
function will be set to “ON”.

NOTCH indicator

NOTCH level indicator

MULTI Knob

The performance of the IF NOTCH filter is illus-

trated in Figure “A”, where the desired signal and
the interfering heterodyne are shown within the
IF passband. In Figure “B” the notching effect of
the IF NOTCH filter is illustrated as the MULTI
knob is rotated to eliminate the interfering het-
3. Rotate the MULTI knob to adjust the “null” position
erodyne.
of the Notch filter.
4. To cancel the NOTCH filter, touch [NOTCH] on the
A B
TFT display, “OFF” will appear in the display, con-
Desired Signal Desired Signal
firming that the NOTCH filter is no longer in opera-
tion.
Advice: QRM QRM
(Heterodyne) (Heterodyne)
Alternate touches of [ NOTCH ] , will switch the
NOTCH filter between on and off.
Advice:
 The bandwidth of the NOTCH filter (either narrow
IF BANDWIDTH IF BANDWIDTH
or wide) may be adjusted using Menu item “114
IF NOTCH WIDTH”. The factory default setting is
“WIDE”.

MULTI

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 55

Interference Rejection
Digital NOTCH Filter (DNF) Operation
The Digital NOTCH Filter (DNF) is an effective beat-canceling filter that can null out a number of interfering beat notes
inside the receiver passband. Because this is an Auto-Notch feature, there is no adjustment knob associated with this fil-
ter.
Advice:
If a very strong interfering carrier is encountered, we recommend using the IF NOTCH filter first, as it is the most effec-
tive notching tool in the receiver section.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to show the functions F(M-LIST) Button

listed on the TFT display, then touch [DNF] on the

TFT display. The Digital NOTCH Filter will be set
to “ON”.

To disable the Digital NOTCH Filter, just repeat the

above procedure, touching [DNF] on the LCD to choose
“OFF”. The “DNF” will turn off, confirming that the
Digital NOTCH Filter is not active.

Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) Operation

The Digital Noise Reduction (DNR) system is designed to reduce the level of ambient noise found on the HF and 50
MHz bands. The (DNR) system is especially effective during SSB operation. While DNR is functioning, rotate the
MULTI knob to adjust the DNR level. Any of 15 different noise-reduction algorithms can be selected; each of these al-
gorithms was created to deal with a different noise profile. You will want to experiment with the DNR system to find the
best setting corresponding to the noise currently being experienced.

1. Press the F(MLIST) button to reveal the functions F(M-LIST) Button

list on the TFT LCD display.

2. Touch [DNR] on the LCD. The DNR function will
be set to “ON”.
DNR indicator

DNR level indicator

MULTI Knob

3. Rotate the MULTI knob to choose one of 15 algo-

rithms that best reduces the noise level.
4. To cancel the DNR filter, touch [DNR] on the LCD,
“OFF” will appear in the display, confirming that the
DNR system is no longer in operation.

Page 56 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Tools for Comfortable and Effective Reception
RF Gain
The RF Gain control provides manual adjustment of the gain levels for the receiver RF and IF stages, to account for
noise and signal strength conditions at the moment.
1. The RF GAIN knob should, initially, be rotated to
the fully clockwise position. This is the point of
maximum receiver sensitivity.
2. Counter-clockwise rotation of the RF GAIN knob
will gradually reduce the system gain.
Advice:
 As the RF GAIN knob is rotated counterclockwise RF GAIN Knob
to reduce the gain, the S-meter reading will rise. This
indicates that the AGC voltage being applied to the
receiver is increasing (this causes a reduction in re-
ceiver gain).
 Rotating the RF GAIN knob control to the fully
counter-clockwise position will essentially disable
the receiver, as the gain will be greatly reduced. In
this case, the S-meter will appear to be “pegged”
against the right edge of the analog S-meter scale.
Quick Point:
 Reception frequently can be improved by rotating
the RF GAIN knob slightly counter-clockwise to the
point where the “stationary” meter indication is set
just about the same as the incoming noise level. This
will reduce the RF gain to find a level of improved
signal to noise ratio.
 The RF Gain control, along with the IPO and the At-
tenuator features, all affect the system receiver gain
in different ways. The IPO generally should be the
first feature engaged when dealing with a high noise
level, or a crowded, high-level signal environment.
Also, the IPO generally should be the first feature
engaged, if the frequency is low enough to allow the
preamplifier to be bypassed. Thereafter, the RF Gain
and Attenuator features may be employed to provide
precise, delicate adjustment of the receiver gain to
fully optimize performance.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 57

Tools for Comfortable and Effective Reception
Audio Peak Filter
1. Press the F(MLIST) button to reveal the functions F(M-LIST) Button

list on the TFT LCD display.

2. Touch [APF] on the LCD. The APF function will be
set to “ON”.
APF indicator

APF level indicator

MULTI Knob

3. Rotate the MULTI knob to set the sound volume to a

comfortable level.
Advice:
 The APF bandwidth can be selected from NAR-
ROW/MEDIUM/WIDE via the Menu item “111
APF WIDTH”.
4. To cancel the APF action, touch [APF] on the LCD.
The “OFF” will appear in the display, confirming that
the APF system is no longer in operation.
Advice:
The APF may only be activated while the transceiver is
in CW mode.

Page 58 FT-991 Operating Manual

Tools for Comfortable and Effective Reception
AGC (Automatic Gain Control)
The AGC system is designed to help compensate for fading and other propagation effects. The AGC characteristics can
be individually set for each operating mode. The basic objective of AGC is to maintain a constant audio output level
once a certain minimum threshold of signal strength is achieved.
Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [AGC] on the F(M-LIST) Button

LCD repeatedly to select the desired receiver-recovery

time constant. You will observe the AGC status notation
in the AGC column of the Key Function Display on the
TFT display, denoting the AGC receiver-recovery time
currently in use. For most operations, we recommend
the “AUTO” mode. Additionally, you may disable the
AGC by touching [AGC] on the LCD.

Advice:
 If the AGC receiver-recovery time is set to “Off” by
touching [AGC] on the LCD, the S-meter will no
longer deflect. Additionally, you will likely encoun-
ter distortion on stronger signals, as the IF amplifiers
and the following stages are probably being over-
loaded.
Quick point:
Note: Several aspects of AGC performance may be configured
 The “AUTO” selection mode selects the optimum via the Menu. However, because AGC can have such a
receiver-recovery time for the reception mode. profound impact on overall receiver performance, we
In this case, the selected receiver-recovery time in generally do not recommend any changes to the AGC
the AGC column of the Key Function Display glows Menu selections until you are thoroughly familiar with
green (Normally it glows blue). the performance of the FT-991A.
 Touching [AGC] on the LCD allows selection of the
Terminology:
desired receiver-recovery time constant. Normally,
Automatic Gain Control, or AGC, is a circuit that senses
the “AUTO” selection is satisfactory for most situ-
the received signal strength, and then limits the gain of
ations, but in the event of operation on a crowded
the RF and IF stages to keep the output audio volume at
band where you wish to receive a weak signal, you
a more-or-less constant level. AGC also protects the RF,
may wish to change the setting to FAST. The AUTO
IF, Audio, and DSP stages from overload, as it limits the
mode selections are:
signal strength that is allowed to flow, irrespective of the
Operating Mode AUTO AGC Selection input signal level.
LSB/USB/AM SLOW
CW/FM/DATA-FM FAST
RTTY/DATA-LSB/DATA-USB MID

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 59

Tools for Comfortable and Effective Reception
Adjustable Receiver Audio Filter
The FT-991A includes an adjustable receiver audio filter, that provides precise, independent control of the low; and up-
per audio ranges.
1. Press the MENU button to enter the Menu mode. MENU Button

2. Rotate the MULTI knob to find Menu items “041”

through “044” these parameters apply to the adjust-
ment of the receiver audio filter in the AM mode,
Menu items “050” through “053” apply to the
adjustment of the RX audio filter in the CW mode,
Menu items “066” through “069” apply to the ad-
justment of the RX audio filter in the DATA mode,
Menu items “092” through “095” apply to the ad- MULTI Knob

justment of the RX audio filter in the RTTY mode,

and Menu items “102” through “105” apply to the 4. Rotate the MULTI knob to adjust the receiver audio
adjustment of the RX audio filter in the SSB mode response as desired.
3. Touch [SELECT] on the LCD. 5. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set-
ting.

   #/ .% 7 6 (4 ' 3 1((
   #/ .% 7 6 5. 1 2' F$QEV
   #/ *% 7 6 (4 ' 3 1((    #/ .% 7 6 (4 ' 3  *\
   #/ .% 7 6 5. 1 2' F$QEV
   #/ *% 7 6 (4 ' 3 1((

6. Press the MENU button or touch [BACK] on the

LCD to exit to normal operation.

Mode Menu Item Available Values

041 AM LCUT FREQ OFF/100(Hz) - 1000(Hz)
042 AM LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
AM
043 AM HCUT FREQ 700(Hz) - 4000(Hz)/OFF
044 AM HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
050 CW LCUT FREQ OFF/100(Hz) - 1000(Hz)
051 CW LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
CW
052 CW HCUT FREQ 700(Hz) - 4000(Hz)/OFF
053 CW HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
066 DATA LCUT FREQ OFF/100(Hz) - 1000(Hz)
067 DATA LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
DATA
068 DATA HCUT FREQ 700(Hz) - 4000(Hz)/OFF
069 DATA HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
092 RTTY LCUT FREQ OFF/100(Hz) - 1000(Hz)
093 RTTY LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
RTTY
094 RTTY HCUT FREQ 700(Hz) - 4000(Hz)/OFF
095 RTTY HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
102 SSB LCUT FREQ OFF/100(Hz) - 1000(Hz)
103 SSB LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
SSB
104 SSB HCUT FREQ 700(Hz) - 4000(Hz)/OFF
105 SSB HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct

Page 60 FT-991 Operating Manual

 SSB/AM Mode Transmission
ON/OFF Switch
BAND Button F(M-LIST) Button

MODE Button MULTI Knob Main Tuning Dial Knob

1. Press the BAND button to show the band list, and 5. Adjust the microphone amplifier gain to match the
then touch a band key corresponding to the Amateur microphone and your voice level: Touch [METER]
band on which you wish to operate. on the LCD repeatedly to select the “ALC”.
2. Press the MODE button to show the mode list, and Press and hold the PTT switch, and speak into the
then select the operating mode by touching the cor- microphone in a normal voice level.
responding key. In the SSB mode, touch [MIC GAIN] and then ad-
Advice: just MULTI knob so that the ALC meter stays within
By convention, LSB is used in the 7 MHz and lower the ALC zone of the meter (up to half scale deflec-
Amateur bands for SSB communication, and USB is tion) on voice peaks.
used on the 14 MHz and higher bands (the 10 MHz
band is used for CW and data modes only).
3. Rotate the Main Tuning Dial knob to adjust the op-
erating frequency. Alternately, you may use the UP/
DWN scanning buttons on the MH-31A8J Hand Mi-
crophone to scan up or down the current band.
4. Press the microphone PTT (Push To Talk) switch to
begin transmitting; speak into the microphone in a
normal voice level.
Advice:
In the AM mode, touch [MIC GAIN] and then adjust
 The “ ” indicator will light up in the TFT LED
indicators area, confirming that transmission is in the MULTI knob so that the ALC meter does not de-
progress. flect on voice peaks.
 When transmitting in the AM mode, set a maxi-  When transmitting In the AM mode, adjust the
mum (carrier) power output of 25 Watts by press- MIC gain so that the PO meter does not deflect
ing [RF PWR], then rotate the MULTI knob. when speaking.
6. Release the PTT switch at the end of the transmis-
sion. The transceiver will return to the receive mode.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 61

SSB/AM Mode Transmission
Advice:  Four techniques to implement Transmit/Receive con-
 ALC meter deflection may be caused by excessive trol are provided on the FT-991A. You may choose
drive power, but also by reflected power detected the technique(s) that best suit your operating needs:
in the antenna system. If the antenna impedance  Pressing the microphone PTT switch will engage
presented to the transceiver is other than 50 Ohms, the transmitter.
ALC meter action may be observed that is not re-  The rear panel PTT jack may be connected to a
lated to the proper setting of [MIC GAIN] on the foot switch or other manual switching device in
LCD. Therefore, we recommend that you make [MIC order to engage the transmitter.
GAIN] adjustments into a dummy load or antenna  Touching [MOX] on the TFT display functions
system presenting impedance very close to 50 Ohms. list will lock the transmitter on (The functions list
 When making “on air” tests (such as setting the mi- may be displayed by pressing the F(MLIST) but-
crophone gain), be sure to listen on the frequency ton). Touch [MOX] on the LCD again to return to
before transmitting, to avoid interference to others receive.
who may already be using the frequency.

 The VOX ( Voice Operated Xmit ) circuit will

engage the transmitter automatically when you
speak into the microphone. For details of VOX
operation refer to page 72.

Page 62 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Using the Automatic Antenna Tuner
The Automatic Antenna Tuner (hereinafter referred to as the “ATU”) built into each FT-991A is designed to ensure a
50-Ohm load for the final amplifier stage of the transmitter.
Advice:
 Because the ATU of the FT-991A is located inside the station, it only adjusts the impedance presented to the trans-
ceiver at the station end of your coaxial cable feedline. It does not “tune” the SWR at the antenna feed point itself.
When designing and building your antenna system, we recommend that every effort be made to ensure a low SWR
at the antenna feed point.
 The ATU of the FT-991A includes 100 memories for tuning data. Eleven of these memories are allocated, one for
each Amateur band, so that each band has at least one setting preset for use on that band. The remaining 89 memo-
ries are reserved for the 89 most-recent tuning points, for quick frequency change without the need to retune the
ATU.
 The ATU in the FT-991A is designed to match impedances within the range of 16.7 Ohms to 150 Ohms, correspond-
ing to an SWR of 3:1 or less on the 160 through 6 meter amateur bands. Accordingly, simple non-resonant whip an-
tennas, along with random-length wires and the “G5RV” antenna (on most bands) may not be within the impedance
matching range of the ATU.

ATU Operation
1. Use the Main Tuning Dial knob to set the radio to TUNE Button

the desired operating frequency within the Amateur

band.
2. Press the TUNE button momentarily to place the
ATU in the transmit line (no adjustment/tuning will
occur yet). The “TUNER” icon will appear in the
display.
Quick Point:
The momentary press of the TUNE button will turn
the tuner on, and the microprocessor will automati-
cally select the tuning point closest to the current
operating frequency. Advice:
The ATU circuit is located between the final amplifier
and the rear-panel antenna jack; reception is not affected
by the ATU.
Quick Points:
As shipped from the factory, only one ATU alignment
point is saved on each Amateur band. This was memo-
rized during the final alignment and performance verifi-
cation stages on the production line.
3. Press and hold in the TUNE button for one second to Note:
begin automatic tuning. The transmitter will be en- Please listen to the operating frequency before begin-
gaged, and the “TUNER” icon will blink while tun- ning the tuning process, to be sure you are not interfer-
ing is in progress. When the optimum tuning point ing with others who may already be using the frequency.
has been reached, the radio will return to receive,
Terminology:
and the “TUNER” icon will again glow steadily (in- Antenna Tuner Memories: The ATU microprocessor
stead of blinking). makes a note of the selected tuning capacitors and in-
4. To disconnect the ATU from the transmit line, press ductors, and stores the data for each 10 kHz window in
the TUNE button momentarily. The “TUNER” which tuning has occurred. This eliminates the need to
icon will turn off, confirming that the ATU has been re-tune every time you return to a frequency on which
turned off. In the “Off” mode, the transceiver will be you have already completed the tuning process.
directly connected to the coaxial cable connected to
your antenna, and will respond to whatever imped-
ance is present at the station end of the coax.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 63

Using the Automatic Antenna Tuner
About ATU Operation
Figure 1 depicts a situation where normal tuning via the ATU has been successfully completed, and the tuning data has
been stored in the ATU memory. The antenna system as seen by the transmitter is shown.
In Figure 2, the operator has changed frequency, and the “HI-SWR” icon has appeared. The operator presses and holds
in the TUNE button for one second to begin impedance matching using the ATU.
If a high SWR condition exists (above 3:1), corrective action must be taken in the antenna system to bring the imped-
ance closer to 50 Ohms. The ATU will refuse to memorize settings on frequencies where the SWR exceeds 3:1. A High
SWR may indicate a mechanical failure in the feed system, and can lead to the generation of spurious signals causing
TVI, etc.

Feed Point SWR

Frequency
SWR after ATU Tuning

Figure 1

The “HI-SWR” icon appears on the display

Memorized ATU Tuning when you transmit on the frequency

SWR: 3.0

Retuned Setting

Frequency
Figure 2

About ATU Memories

SWR (After tuning) Less than 2:1
The tuner settings are stored in the ATU memory.
SWR (After tuning) Greater than 2:1
Tuning data will not be retained in memory. If you return to the same frequency, the tuning process must be re-
peated.
SWR (After tuning) Greater than 3:1
The “HI-SWR” icon will light up, and the tuner settings, if achieved, will not be memorized. Please investigate
the high SWR condition and resolve the problem before attempting further operation using this antenna.

Page 64 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality
Parametric Microphone Equalizer (SSB/AM mode)
The FT-991A includes a unique Three-Band Parametric Microphone Equalizer that provides precise, independent con-
trol over the low, mid and treble ranges in the voice waveform. You may utilize one group of settings when the speech
processor is off and use an alternate group of settings when the speech processor is on. The speech processor feature is
described in the next chapter.
Quick Point:
The Parametric Equalizer is a unique technique for adjusting the signal quality. The three audio ranges may be adjusted
so precisely, it is possible to craft an audio response that provides a natural and pleasant sound that you may not have
ever experienced before. Alternately, the effective “talk power” can be significantly enhanced.
The configuration aspects that may be adjusted on the Parametric Equalizer are:
Center Frequency: The center frequency of each of the three bands may be adjusted.
Gain: The amount of enhancement (or suppression) within each band may be adjusted.
Q: The bandwidth over which the equalization is applied may be adjusted.

Setup of the Parametric Microphone Equalizer

1. Connect the microphone to the MIC jack. MENU(SETUP) Button F(M-LIST) Button
2. Set the RF output power to minimum value.
Advice:
 We recommend that you connect a dummy load
to one of the Antenna jacks, and monitor your
signal on a separate receiver, to prevent interfer-
ence to other users.
 You will have the best chance of hearing the ef-
fects of adjustments if you wear headphones MULTI Knob
( connected to the separate monitor receiver )
while listening to your transmitted signal.
3. To adjust the Parametric Microphone Equalizer
while the speech processor is disabled, press the
F(M-LIST) button, then touch [MIC-EQ] to select
“ON”.

5. Press the MENU ( SETUP) button. The Menu list

will appear in the TFT display.
6. Rotate the MULT knob to find the “EQ” Menu area,
containing Menu items “119” through “127”; these
parameters apply to the adjustment of the Parametric
To adjust the Parametric Microphone Equalizer with Microphone Equalizer when the speech processor
the speech processor engaged, press the F(M-LIST) is disabled. Menu items “128” through “136” ap-
button, then touch [PROC] to select “ON”. ply to the adjustment of the Parametric Microphone
Equalizer when the speech processor is engaged.
7. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULT knob to adjust a particular Menu item.

   24/64% '3 (4 ' 3 1((

4. Touch [MONI], if you want to listen on the FT-991A    24/64% '3 .' 8 '.
   24/64% '3 $9 6 *


internal monitor.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 65

Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality
Parametric Microphone Equalizer (SSB/AM mode)
8. Press and hold the PTT switch, and speak into
the microphone while listening to the effect of the
changes you are making. Because the overall ef-
fect on the sound will change with each adjustment,
make several passes through each adjustment area,
to be sure that you achieve the optimum settings.
9. When all adjustments have been completed, touch
[ENTER] on the LCD to save the new settings.

   24/64% '3 (4 ' 3 

  24/64% '3 .' 8 '. 
   24/64% '3 $9 6 * 

10. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]

on the LCD to return to normal operation. If you
only touch [BACK] momentarily to exit the setup
menu, none of the changes you performed will be
stored.
Advice:
To roll off the excessive bass response prevalent in a
wide-range of studio microphones, try setting the micro-
phone equalizer for a 10 dB null at 100 Hz with a band-
width of “1” or “2”, a 3 dB null centered on 800 Hz with
a bandwidth of “3”, and then put an 8 dB peak centered
on 2100 Hz with a bandwidth of “1.” These are starting
recommendations; each microphone and user’s voice
will be different, often requiring different settings.

Page 66 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality
Parametric Microphone Equalizer (SSB/AM mode)
Activating the Parametric Microphone Equalizer
1. Adjust [MIC GAIN] on the TFT display, as described F(M-LIST) Button

on page 61.
2. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [MIC-EQ]
on the TFT display to select “ON”. If you use the
Parametric Microphone Equalizer with the speech
processor engaged, press the F(M-LIST) button, then
touch [PROC] to display the PROC level (from 1
to 100), confirming that the Parametric Microphone
Equalizer is engaged.

3. Press the PTT switch on the microphone, and speak

into the microphone in a normal voice level.
4. To switch the Parametric Microphone Equalizer off,
touch [MIC-EQ] on the LCD again.

3-Stage Parametric Equalizer Adjustments (Speech Processor: “OFF”)

Center Frequency “119 PRMTRC EQ1 FREQ” “100” (Hz) - “700” (Hz) / “OFF”
“122 PRMTRC EQ2 FREQ” “700” (Hz) - “1500” (Hz) / “OFF”
“125 PRMTRC EQ3 FREQ” “1500” (Hz) - “3200” (Hz) / “OFF”
Parametric Gain “120 PRMTRC EQ1 LEVEL” (Low) “–20” (dB) - “10” (dB)
“123 PRMTRC EQ2 LEVEL” (Mid) “–20” (dB) - “10” (dB)
“126 PRMTRC EQ3 LEVEL” (High) “–20” (dB) - “10” (dB)
Q (Bandwidth) “121 PRMTRC EQ1 BWTH” (Low) “1” - “10”
“124 PRMTRC EQ2 BWTH” (Mid) “1” - “10”
“127 PRMTRC EQ3 BWTH” (High) “1” - “10”

3-Stage Parametric Equalizer Adjustments (Speech Processor: “ON”)

Center Frequency “128 P-PRMTRC EQ1 FREQ” “100” (Hz) - “700” (Hz) / “OFF”
“131 P-PRMTRC EQ2 FREQ” “700” (Hz) - “1500” (Hz) / “OFF”
“134 P-PRMTRC EQ3 FREQ” “1500” (Hz) - “3200” (Hz) / “OFF”
Parametric Gain “129 P-PRMTRC EQ1 LEVEL” (Low) “–20” (dB) - “10” (dB)
“132 P-PRMTRC EQ2 LEVEL” (Mid) “–20” (dB) - “10” (dB)
“135 P-PRMTRC EQ3 LEVEL” (High) “–20” (dB) - “10” (dB)
Q (Bandwidth) “130 P-PRMTRC EQ1 BWTH” (Low) “1” - “10”
“133 P-PRMTRC EQ2 BWTH” (Mid) “1” - “10”
“136 P-PRMTRC EQ3 BWTH” (High) “1” - “10”

Parametric Gain

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 67

Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality
Using the Speech Processor (SSB Mode)
The FT-991A Speech Processor is designed to increase “talk power” by increasing the average power output (via a so-
phisticated compression technique) and adjusting the audio quality to the menu settings (“128 P-PRMTRC EQ1 FREQ”,
“131 P-PRMTRC EQ2 FREQ”, “134 P-PRMTRC EQ3 FREQ”). The result is improved intelligibility when conditions
are difficult.
1. Adjust [MIC GAIN] on the TFT display, as described F(M-LIST) Button
on page 61.
2. Touch [ METER ] on the TFT display to select
“COMP” (Compression) meter.

MULTI Knob

3. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [PROC] to

display the PROC level (from 1 to 100), confirming
that the Speech Processor is engaged.

4. Press the PTT switch on the microphone, and speak

into the microphone in a normal voice level.
5. Adjust the MULT knob to set the compression level
within the 5 dB to 10 dB range.

6. To switch the Speech Processor off, touch [PROC]

on the TFT display once more. The “OFF” will ap-
pear in the display, confirming that the Speech pro-
cessor is turned off.
Advice:
 You may adjust the Parametric Microphone Equal-
izer when the speech processor is engaged, using
Menu Items “128” through “136”. See page 139
for details.

Page 68 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality
Adjusting the SSB Transmitted Bandwidth (SSB Mode)
For SSB transmission, a default bandwidth of 2.4 kHz is available. This bandwidth provides reasonable fidelity along
with good talk power, and is the typical bandwidth used for decades for SSB transmission. The transmit bandwidth may
be varied by the operator, to provide different levels of fidelity or talk power, according to individual preferences.
Here are the steps to adjust the SSB transmit bandwidth: MENU(SETUP) Button F(M-LIST) Button
1. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button to engage the
Menu.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “110
SSB TX BPF”.
3. Touch [SELECT] on the TFT display, then rotate
the MULTI knob to select the desired bandwidth.
The available selections are: 100-3000 Hz, 100-
2900 Hz, 200-2800 Hz, 300-2700 Hz, 400-2600 Hz. MULTI Knob
The default is 300-2700 Hz. A wider bandwidth will
provide greater fidelity. A narrow bandwidth will
compress the available transmitter power into less
spectrum, resulting in more “talk power” for DX
pile-ups.
Advice:
The Transmit Monitor function is a very helpful way to
confirm the effect that changing the bandwidth will have
on fidelity. To activate the Monitor function, press the
F(MLIST) button to reveal the functions list on the TFT
  55 $ 2 1 4 6 5 ' .'%6 &#6# LCD display. Then touch the [MONI] button, you will
   55$ 6: $ 2 (   
   # 2( 9+ & 6 * /' &+7/ be able to hear the difference in sound quality as you
make bandwidth changes.
Quick Points:
The higher fidelity associated with wide bandwidth will
4. Touch [ENTER] on the TFT display to save the new
be particularly enjoyable on the low bands during local
setting.
rag-chew QSOs.

  55 $ 2 1 4 6 5 '.'%6 &#6#
   55$ 6: $ 2 (   
   # 2( 9+ & 6 * /' &+7/

5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]

on the TFT display to exit to normal operation.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 69

Transmitter Convenience Features
Voice Memory (SSB/AM modes)
You may utilize the Voice Memory capability of the FT-991A for repetitive messages. The Voice Memory system
includes five memories capable of storing up to 20 seconds of voice audio each. The maximum that any memory can
hold is 20 seconds.

Voice Memory Operation

You may also utilize the Voice Memory capability of the FT-991A by operating from the display or the optional FH-2
Remote Control Keypad, which plugs into the rear panel REM/ALC jack.

Recording Your Own Voice in Memory 7. Touch [MEM] on the LCD or press the FH-2 [MEM]
1. Select the LSB, USB, or AM mode using the front key to complete the message storage process.
panel MODE button.
2. Adjust [MIC GAIN] on the LCD, as described on
page 61.
3. Touch [MEM] on the LCD or press the [MEM] key
on the FH-2. A blinking “REC” icon will appear in
the display.

Checking Your Recording

1. Be sure that [VOX] and [BK-IN] functions are “Off”
so transmit will not be activated. The function status-
es may be observed on the TFT display by pressing
the F(M-LIST) button.
2. Touch [CH1] - [CH5] on the LCD or press the FH-2
4. Touch [CH1] through [CH5] on the LCD or press [1] - [5] key (whichever register you just recorded
any of the FH-2 keys numbered [1] through [5] to in). The “PLAY” icon will appear in the display and
select that memory storage register. you will hear the contents of the Voice Memory you
just recorded.

Advice:
If you do not press the PTT key (see next step) with-
Advice:
in five seconds, the memory storage process will be
The playback level of the recording may be adjusted via
cancelled.
Menu item “010 DVS RX OUT LEVEL”.
5. Press the microphone PTT switch momentarily. The
“REC” icon will glow steadily and recording will
begin.
6. Speak into the microphone in a normal voice level to
record the message (such as “CQ DX, CQ DX, this
is W 6 Delta X-Ray Charlie, W 6 Delta X-Ray Char-
lie, Over”). Remember that the time limit for record-
ing any message is 20 seconds.

Page 70 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Transmitter Convenience Features
Voice Memory (SSB/AM modes)
Transmitting the Recorded Message
1. Select the LSB, USB, or AM mode using the front
panel MODE button.
2. Press the front panel F(M-LIST) button to reveal the
functions list on the TFT LCD display, then touch
[BK-IN] on the LCD.

3. Touch [CH1] - [CH5] on the LCD or press the FH-2

[1] - [5] key (whichever register you just recorded
in). A “PLAY” icon will appear in the display and
the message will be transmitted.

Advice:
The transmit (audio) level of the recording may be ad-
justed via Menu item “011 DVS TX OUT LEVEL”.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 71

Transmitter Convenience Features
VOX (SSB/AM/FM Modes: Automatic TX/RX Switching using Voice Control)
Instead of using the microphone PTT switch or the [MOX] function (that may be displayed by pressing the F(M-LIST)
button) to activate the transmitter, the VOX (Voice Operated Transmit) system may be used for hands-free activation of
the transmitter, by the voice input to the microphone.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button, to reveal the functions MENU(SETUP) Button F(M-LIST) Button

list on the TFT LCD display, then touch [VOX] on

the LCD to activate the function, “ON” will appear
in the display.

MULTI Knob

2. Without pressing the PTT switch, speak into the

microphone in a normal voice level. When you start
speaking, the transmitter should be activated auto-   81 : 5 ' . '%6
   81: )# + 0
/+
+%

matically. When you finish speaking, the transceiver    8 1:
: &' . # ;  OU G E

should return to the receive mode (after a short de-

lay).
3. To cancel VOX and return to PTT operation, touch 6) Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch
[VOX] on the LCD once more. The “VOX” indica- [BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.
tion will turn OFF, signifying that the VOX circuitry  The “Hang-Time” of the VOX system (the transmit/
has been turned off. receive delay after the cessation of speech) may also
Advice: be adjusted via the Menu mode. The default delay is
 The VOX Gain may be adjusted to prevent acciden- 500 msec. To set a different delay time:
tal transmitter activation in a noisy environment. To 1) Activate the VOX circuitry, if necessary.
adjust the VOX Gain: 2) Press the MENU(SETUP) button to engage the
1) Activate the VOX circuitry, if necessary. Menu mode.
2) Press the MENU(SETUP) button to engage the 3) Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “144
Menu mode. VOX DELAY”, then touch [ SELECT ] on the
3) Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “143 LCD.
VOX GAIN”, then touch [SELECT] on the LCD.

  81 : 5 ' . '%6 /+
+%
   81:
: )# + 0 
  81 : 5 ' . '%6 /+
+%    8 1:
: &' . # ;  OU G E
   81:
: )# + 0 
   8 1:
: &' . # ;  OU G E

4) Rotate the MULTI knob while saying a brief syl-

4) While speaking into the microphone, rotate the lable like “Ah” and listening to the hang time for
MULTI knob to the point where the transmitter the desired delay.
is quickly activated by your voice, without back-
ground noise causing the transmitter to activate.
5) When you are satisfied with the setting, touch
[ENTER] on the TFT LCD display to save the
new setting.

Page 72 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Transmitter Convenience Features
VOX (SSB/AM/FM Modes: Automatic TX/RX Switching using Voice Control)
5) When you are satisfied with the setting, touch
[ENTER] on the TFT LCD display to save the
new setting.

  81 : 5 ' . '%6 /+
+%
   81: )# + 0 
   81: &' . # ;  OU G E

6) Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch

[BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.
 The Anti-Trip setting adjusts the level of negative re-
ceiver audio feedback to the microphone, to prevent
receiver audio from activating the transmitter (via
the microphone). This setting can also be adjusted
via Menu item “145 ANTI VOX GAIN”.
 VOX operation may be engaged on either Voice
modes ( SSB/AM/FM ) or on AFSK-based Data
modes. Use Menu item “142 VOX SELECT” (the se-
lections are “MIC” and “DATA”).

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 73

Transmitter Convenience Features
MONITOR (SSB/AM modes)
You may listen to the quality of your transmitted signal using the Monitor feature.
1. Touch [MONI] displayed by pressing the F(M-LIST) F(M-LIST) Button

button to reveal the functions list on the TFT LCD

display.
2. Touch [MONI] on the LCD, the Moniter function
will be set to “ON”. The MULTI knob serves as the
MONITOR adjustment knob.

MONI (Monitor) indicator

MONI (Monitor) level indicator MULTI Knob

3. During transmission, rotate the MULTI knob to ad-

just the audio level in the Headphones or speaker.
Clockwise rotation of this knob will increase the vol-
ume level.
4. To switch the Monitor off again, touch [MONI] on
the LCD once more. “OFF” will be displayed, con-
firming that the Monitor function is disengaged.
Advice:
 Because the Monitor feature samples the transmit-
ter IF signal, it can be very useful for checking the
adjustment of the Speech Processor or Parametric
Equalizer on SSB, and for checking the general sig-
nal quality on AM.

Page 74 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Transmitter Convenience Features
Split Operation Using the TX Clarifier
For split TX/RX operation in “casual” pile-ups, where the split is less than 10 kHz, the TX Clarifier (Offset Tuning) fea-
ture may be utilized.

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu CLAR/VFO-B Knob

MENU(SETUP) Button CLAR Button
mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “040
CLAR MODE SELECT”.
3. Touch [ SELECT] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to set this Menu item to “TX” (the de-
fault setting is “RX”).

MULTI Knob

   %.#4 /1&' 5 ' .'% 6 4:

   #/ .% 7 6 (4 ' 3 1((
   #/ .% 7 6 5. 1 2' F$QEV
7. Rotate the CLAR/VFO-B knob to set the desired
transmitter offset. A maximum split of ±9.999 kHz
may be set.
4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set- 8. To exit from TX Clarifier operation, press the CLAR
ting. button once more. The “TX” icon will disappear
from the display.
Advice:
 When listening to a “pile-up” calling a DX station, in
order to find the station currently being worked, you
may press the CLAR button. Then, use the CLAR/
   %.#4 /1&' 5 ' .'% 6 6:
   #/ .% 7 6 (4 ' 3 1(( VFO-B knob to zero in on the station calling the DX
   #/ .% 7 6 5. 1 2' F$QEV
(use the SPOT function on CW for precise alignment
of your frequency). You may then press the CLAR
button again to cancel the RX Clarifier, and return to
5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK] reception on the DX station’s frequency.
on the LCD to exit to normal operation.  Just as with receiver Clarifier operation, the amount
6. Press the CLAR button. The “TX” icon will appear of offset from the original VFO frequency will ap-
in the TFT display. pear in the display.
 As with receiver Clarifier operation, when you turn
the TX Clarifier off, the last-used offset is remem-
bered, and will be available if you turn the TX Clari-
fier back on. To clear the Clarifier offset, press and
hold the CLAR button for more than 1 second.
Quick Point:
When attempting to work a DX station on CW in a split
frequency pile-up, remember that a large number of
other stations may also be using Yaesu transceivers with
Quick Point:
capability similar to that of your FT-991A. On the DX
The Clarifier is frequently used for receiver offset
side of the pile-up, everyone calling precisely on the
tuning. However, for DX pile-ups where the DX
same CW frequency will sound like a single tone! So
station is using a split of less than 10 kHz, the TX
you may have more success if you use the RX Clarifier
Clarifier function is usually the quickest way to set
to find a hole in the pile-up, instead of trying to zero-
the transmitter to the desired offset frequency.
beat the last station worked by the DX station.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 75

Transmitter Convenience Features
Split-Frequency Operation
A powerful capability of the FT-991A is its flexibility in Split Frequency operation using the VFO-A and VFO-B fre-
quency registers. This makes the FT-991A especially useful for high-level DX-peditions. The Split operation capability
is very advanced and easy to use.
1. Rotate the Main Tuning Dial knob to set the desired Quick Split Operation
RX frequency. The Quick Split feature allows setting a one-touch offset
2. Press the A/B button, then rotate the Main Tuning of +5 kHz compared to the VFO-A frequency, to be ap-
Dial knob to set the desired split TX frequency. plied to the transceiver VFO-B (transmit) frequency,
3. Press the A/B button, then press the SPLIT button.
1. Start with regular transceiver operation on the VFO-A.
The VFO-B frequency will be shown in the TFT dis-
VFO-A RX Indicator: “ON” (LED glows Green)
play and the LED indicators will appear as below:
VFO-A TX Indicator: “ON” (LED glows Red)
VFO-A RX Indicator: “ON” (LED glows Green)
VFO-B RX Indicator: “OFF” (LED Off)
VFO-A TX Indicator: “OFF” (LED Off)
VFO-B TX Indicator: “OFF” (LED Off)
VFO-B RX Indicator: “OFF” (LED Off)
2. Press and hold in the SPLIT button for one second
VFO-B TX Indicator: “ON” (LED glows Red)
to engage the Quick Split feature, and apply a fre-
quency 5 kHz above the VFO-A frequency to the
A/B Button VFO-B frequency register.
The VFO configuration will then be:
VFO-A RX Indicator: “ON” (LED glows Green)
VFO-A TX Indicator: “OFF” (LED Off)
VFO-B RX Indicator: “OFF” (LED Off)
VFO-B TX Indicator: “ON” (LED glows Red)
3. Press and hold in the SPLIT switch for one second
to increment the Sub (VFO-B) offset frequency an-
other +5 kHz.
TXW Button SPLIT Button
Quick Points:
During Split operation, the VFO-A register will be used  The offset of VFO-B from VFO-A is programmed
for reception, while the VFO-B register will be used for via the Menu and is set to +5 kHz at the factory.
transmission. If you press the SPLIT button once more, However, other offsets may be selected using the fol-
Split operation will be cancelled. lowing procedure:

Advice: 1. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button to engage the
 During Split operation, pressing the A/ B button will Menu mode.
reverse the contents of VFO-A and VFO-B. Press the 2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “035
A/B button once more to return to the original fre- QUICK SPLIT FREQ”.
quency alignment. 3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the
 During Split operation you may listen to the TX fre- MULT knob to select the desired offset. The avail-
quency temporarily while pressing the TXW button able setting range is –20kHz - +20kHz (factory de-
located on the bottom left of the Main Tuning Dial fault: +5 kHz).
knob.
While pressing the TXW button during split opera-
tions, the frequency of transmit on VFO-B can be
changed.
 During Split operation it is also possible to set VFO-
A and VFO-B to different Amateur bands if a multi    /' / ) 4 1 72 &+5#$.'

band antenna is used.

   37+%- 5 2 . +6 (4'3  M *\
   6: 616 1( (

Page 76 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Transmitter Convenience Features
Split-Frequency Operation
4. Touch [ENTER] button to save the new setting.

   /' / ) 4 1 72 &+5#$.'
   37+%- 5 2 . +6 (4'3  M *\
   6: 616 1( (

5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]

on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 77

CW Mode Operation
The powerful CW operating capabilities of the FT-991A permit operation using an electronic keyer paddle, a “straight
key”, or a computer-based keying device.

Setup for Straight Key (and Straight Key emulation) Operation

Before starting, connect your key line(s) to the front panel KEY jack. Be sure [BK-IN] displayed by pressing the F(M-
LIST) button is turned off for now.
1. Press the MODE button, then touch [CW-LSB] or MODE Button F(M-LIST) Button

[CW-USB ] on the TFT LCD display. The “C-L”

or “C-U” icon will appear in the display. The CW
monitor is activated.

MULTI Knob

2. Rotate the Main Tuning Dial knob to select the de-

sired operating frequency.
3. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [BK-IN]
on the LCD to engage automatic activation of the
transmitter when you close the CW key. The Break-
in will be set to “ON”.

Advice:
 The CW sidetone audio level may be adjusted by
setting “MONITOR” (see page 74).
 You may practice sending CW listening to the sidet-
one only, without having the signal transmitted out
over the air, if you press the front panel F(M-LIST)
button to reveal the functions list on the TFT LCD
display, and then touch the [BK-IN] button to set
Advice: break-in to Off.
 When you close the CW key, the transmitter will  If you reduce transmit power via the [RF PWR]
automatically be activated, and the CW carrier function that may be displayed by pressing the F(M-
will be transmitted. When you release the key, LIST) button, the ALC meter reading will increase;
transmission will cease, and after a brief delay, this is normal and does not indicate any problem
receive will be restored. The delay time is user- whatsoever (because increased ALC voltage is being
programmable per the discussion on page 85. used to lower the power).
 As shipped from the factory, the FT-991A TX/  To enable the keying operation in LSB/USB mode
RX system for CW is configured for “Semi- and send the CW signal without switching to CW
break-in” operation. However, using Menu item mode, change Menu item “055 CW AUTO MODE”.
“056 CW BK-IN TYPE”, you may change this  The same frequency may be displayed when switch-
setup for full break-in (QSK) operation, whereby ing between SSB mode and CW mode by setting
the switching is quick enough to hear incoming Menu item “059 CW FREQ DISPLAY”.
signals in the spaces between the dots and dashes  By connecting the FT-991A to a computer, CW can
of your transmission. This may prove very useful be operated using free or commercially available
during contest and traffic handling operations. software and setting Menu item “060 PC KEYING”.
4. CW operation using the CW key may now proceed.

Page 78 FT-991 Operating Manual

 CW Mode Operation
Setup for Straight Key (and Straight Key emulation) Operation
Terminology:
Semi-break-in
This is a pseudo-”VOX” mode used on CW, whereby the closure of the CW key will engage the transmitter, and
release of the key will allow the receiver to recover after a short delay. No signals will be heard during the spaces
between dots and dashes (unless the sending speed is extremely slow).
Full break-in
Full break-in (also known as “Full QSK”) involves very fast switching between transmit and receive, incoming
signals may be heard between the dots and dashes as you send them. This allows you to hear a station that sud-
denly starts transmitting on your frequency, while you are in the midst of a transmission.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 79

CW Mode Operation
Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer
Connect the cable from your keyer paddle to the front panel KEY jack.
1. Press the MODE button, then touch [CW-LSB] or MODE Button F(M-LIST) Button

[CW-USB ] on the TFT LCD display. The “C-L”

or “C-U” icon will appear in the display. The CW
monitor is activated.

MULTI Knob

2. Rotate the Main Tuning Dial knob to select the de-

sired operating frequency.
3. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [KEYER]
on the LCD to select “ON” to confirm that the built-
in Electronic Keyer is now active. Advice:
 When the keyer paddle is pressed, the transmitter
will automatically be activated, and the CW charac-
ters (or a string of dots or dashes) will be transmit-
ted. When the keyer paddle is released, transmission
will cease, and after a brief delay, reception will be
restored. The delay time is user-programmable, per
the discussion on page 85.
 The CW sidetone audio level may be set using
“MONITOR” (see page 74).
4. Touch [SPEED] on the LCD, then rotate the MULTI
 If [BK-IN] is set to “OFF”, you may practice sending
knob to set the desired sending speed (4 - 60 WPM). CW with the sidetone only, without having the signal
Advice: go out over the air. (Press the front panel F(M-LIST)
 Rotate the MULTI knob to display the keying button to reveal the functions list on the TFT display ).
speed (4 - 60 WPM) below the [SPEED] indica-
 If the transmitter power is reduced via [RF PWR]
tor. function, the ALC meter reading will increase; this
 By pressing either the “Dot” or “Dash” side of is normal and does not indicate any problem whatso-
the paddle, the CW keying tone will automati- ever (because increased ALC voltage is being used
cally be generated. to lower the power).
5. Touch [BK-IN] on the TFT display to engage auto-  The keying operation may also be enabled in LSB/
matic activation of the transmitter when either the USB mode to send the CW signal via the Menu item
“Dot” or “Dash” side of the paddle is pressed. The “055 CW AUTO MODE” without switching to CW
Break-in will be set to “ON”. mode.
 The same frequency may be displayed when switch-
ing between SSB mode and CW mode by setting
Menu item “059 CW FREQ DISPLAY”.
 By connecting a computer, CW can be operated us-
ing free or commercially available software and set-
ting Menu item “060 PC KEYING”.
 The electronic keyer operation mode can be changed
via the Menu item “012 KEYER TYPE”.

6. CW operation utilizing the CW paddle may now

commence.

Page 80 FT-991 Operating Manual

 CW Mode Operation
Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer
Full Break-in (QSK) Operation
As shipped from the factory, the FT-991A TX/RX system for CW is configured for “Semi-break-in” operation.
However, this setup may be changed to full break-in (QSK) operation by setting Menu item “056 CW BK-IN
TYPE”. With full break-in QSK, the TX/RX switching is quick enough to hear incoming signals in the spaces be-
tween the dots and dashes of your transmission.

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to engage the MENU(SETUP) Button

Menu.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “056
CW BK-IN TYPE”.
3. Press the [SELECT] button, and then rotate the
MULTI knob to set this Menu item to “FULL”.

MULTI Knob

  %9 # 7 6 1 / 1 &' 1 ((
   %9 $- +0 6;2' 5'/+
   %9 $- + 0 &'.#; O U G E

   %9 # 7 6 1 / 1 &' 1 ((

4. When the adjustments are complete, touch [EN-

   %9 $- +0 6;2' (7..
   %9 $- + 0 &'.#; O U G E

TER] on the LCD to save the new setting.

5. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch

[BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

A number of interesting and useful features are available for use with the Electronic Keyer operation.

Setting the Keyer Weight (Dot/Dash) Ratio

This Menu item may be used to adjust the dot/dash ratio for the built-in Electronic Keyer. The default weighting
is 3:1 (a dash is three times longer than a dot).

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to engage the MENU(SETUP) Button

Menu.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “014
CW WEIGHT”.
3. Touch the [SELECT] button, and then rotate
the MULTI knob to set the weight to the desired
value. The available adjustment range is a Dot/
Dash ratio of 2.5 - 4.5 (default value: 3.0).
MULTI Knob

   -';'4 6 ;2' '.'-';$    -';'4 6 ;2' '.'-';$

   -';'4 & 1 6&#5* 014    -';'4 &16 &#5* 014
   %9 9'+)* 6     %9 9'+)* 6 

4. When your adjustments are complete, touch [EN- 5. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch
TER] on the LCD to save the new setting. [BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 81

CW Mode Operation
Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer
Selecting the Keyer Operating Mode
The configuration of the Electronic Keyer may be customized independently for the front panel KEY jack of the
FT-991A. This permits utilization of Automatic Character Spacing (ACS), if desired. This allows the use of an
electronic keyer via the front jack and a straight key or computer-driven keying line via the rear panel jack.

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to engage the MENU(SETUP) Button

Menu.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “012
KEYER TYPE”.
3. Press the [SELECT] button, and then rotate the
MULTI knob to set the keyer to the desired mode.
The available selections are:
OFF: The built-in Electronic Keyer is
MULTI Knob
turned off (“straight key” mode).
BUG: Dots will be generated automatically
by the keyer, but dashes must be sent ACS
OFF Morse
manually.
"E" & "T"
ELEKEY-A: A code element ( “Dot” or “Dash” Inter-character
side ) is transmitted upon releasing スペース
Spacing too short

both sides of the paddle. ACS

ELEKEY-B: Releasing both sides of the paddle ON Morse
transmits the currently generated "E" & "T"
“Dash” side followed by “Dot” side
(or reverse order).
4. When the adjustments are complete, touch [EN-
ELEKEY-Y: Pressing both sides of the paddle
TER] on the LCD to save the new setting.
transmits the currently generated
“Dash” side followed by “Dot” side
(or reverse order).
While transmitting the “Dash” side,
the first transmitted “Dot” side will
not be stored.    -';'4 6 ;2' '.'-';#
ACS: Same as “ELEKEY” except that the    -';'4 & 1 6&#5* 014
   %9 9'+)* 6 
spacing between characters is pre-
cisely set by the keyer to be the same
length as a dash (three dots in length).
5. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch
[BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

   -';'4 6 ;2' '.'-';$

   -';'4 & 1 6&#5* 014
   %9 9'+)* 6 

Page 82 FT-991 Operating Manual

 CW Mode Operation
Using the Built-in Electronic Keyer
Reversing the Keyer Polarity
For left-handed operators in a contest, for example, the polarity can be reversed easily in the Menu mode without
changing the keyer connection (the default setting is “NOR”).

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to engage the MENU(SETUP) Button

Menu.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “013
KEYER DOT/DASH”.
3. Press the [ SELECT ] button, then rotate the
MULTI knob to select “REV.”

MULTI Knob

   -';'4 6 ;2' '.'-';$ Advice:

   -';'4 & 1 6&#5*
   %9 9'+)* 6
014

 In the steps on the left, only polarities of the
ELEKEY and ACS keyers can be changed.

4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new

setting.

   -';'4 6 ;2' '.'-';$

   -';'4 &16&#5* 4'8
   %9 9'+)* 6 

5. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch

[BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 83

CW Convenience Features
CW Spotting (Zero-Beating)
“Spotting” (zeroing in on a received CW station) is a handy technique to ensure you and the other station are precisely
on the same frequency.
The Tuning Offset Indicator in the display may also be observed so you can adjust the receiver frequency to center the
incoming station on the pitch corresponding to that of your transmitted signal.

Using the Auto Zeroing System F(M-LIST) Button

Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [ZIN] on the

LCD to cause the receiving frequency to zero-in auto-
matically while receiving the CW signal.

Using the SPOT System F(M-LIST) Button

1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function

list.
2. Touch [MONI] on the LCD. The Monitor function
will be set to “ON”. The MULTI knob will function
as the MONITOR adjustment knob.

MONI (Monitor) indicator

MONI (Monitor) level indicator

Advice:
 In a tough DX pile-up, you may actually want to
use the SPOT system to find a “gap” in the spread
of calling stations, instead of zeroing in precisely
on the last station being worked by the DX station.
From the DX side, if a dozen or more operators (also
using Yaesu’s SPOT system) all call precisely on the
same frequency, their dots and dashes merge into a
3. Touch [SPOT] on the LCD. While you are press- single, long tone that the DX station cannot decipher.
ing and holding [SPOT], the tone is output from the In such situations, calling slightly higher or lower in
speaker. frequency may get your call through.
Quick Points:
 The displayed frequency on CW normally reflects
the “zero beat” frequency of your offset carrier. That
is, if you were to listen on USB on 14.100.00 MHz
to a signal with a 700 Hz offset, the “zero beat” fre-
quency of that CW carrier would be 14.100.70 MHz;
the latter frequency is what the FT-991A displays,
by default. However, you can change the display to
be identical to what you would see on SSB by using
Menu item “059 CW FREQ DISPLAY” and setting
it to “DIRECT FREQ” instead of the default “PITCH
OFFSET” setting.

Page 84 FT-991 Operating Manual

 CW Convenience Features
CW Delay Time Setting
During semi-break-in (not QSK) operation, the hang time of the transmitter, after you have finished sending, may be ad-
justed to a comfortable value consistent with your sending speed. This is the functional equivalent of the “VOX Delay”
adjustment used on voice modes, and the delay may be varied anywhere between 30 msec and 3 seconds via Menu item
“057 CW BK-IN DELAY”.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function F(M-LIST) Button

list, then touch [BK-IN] on the LCD to enable CW

transmission (Menu item “056 CW BK-IN TYPE”
must be set to “SEMI”).

MULTI Knob

4. Start sending and rotate the MULTI knob to adjust

the hang time, as you prefer for comfortable opera-
tion.
2. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu 5. When the adjustments are complete, touch [ENTER]
mode. on the LCD to save the new setting.
3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “057
CW BK-IN DELAY”, then touch [SELECT] on the
LCD.

   %9 # 7 6 1 / 1 &' 1 ((
   %9 $-+0 6;2' 5'/+
   %9 $- + 0 &'.#; O U G E

   %9 # 7 6 1 / 1 &' 1 ((
   %9 $-+0 6;2'
   %9 $- + 0 &'.#;
5'/+
O U G E
6. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]
on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

CW Pitch Adjustment
The center frequency of the receiver passband may be adjusted to the CW tone you prefer. By touching [PITCH] on the
LCD, the pitch of the CW offset carrier may be varied between 300 Hz and 1050 Hz, in 10 Hz steps.

1. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function MENU(SETUP) Button

list, then touch [PITCH] on the LCD. The MULTI

knob functions as the PITCH adjustment knob.

MULTI Knob

Terminology:
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to adjust the PITCH (300 CW Pitch: If the receiver is tuned to an exact “zero
Hz to 1,050 Hz). beat” on an incoming CW signal, you could not copy
it (“Zero beat” implies a 0 Hz tone). Therefore, the re-
ceiver is offset several hundreds of Hz (typically), to
produce a beat tone that can be heard. The BFO offset
associated with this tuning (that produces the comfort-
able audio tone) is called the CW Pitch.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 85

CW Convenience Features
Contest Memory Keyer
The CW message capability of the FT-991A may be utilized from the optional FH-2 Remote Control Keypad, which
plugs into the rear panel REM/ALC jack.

Message Memory
Five memory channels capable of retaining 50 characters each are provided (using the PARIS standard for characters
and word length).
Example: CQ CQ CQ DE W6DXC K (19 characters)
-- • -- • ---- • -- -- • -- • ---- • -- -- • -- • ---- • -- -- •• • • ---- -- •••• -- •• -- •• -- -- • -- • -- • --
(C) (Q) (C) (Q) (C) (Q) (D) (E) (W) (6) (D) (X) (C) (K)
Storing a Message into Memory
MENU(SETUP) Button
1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu
mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the CW Memory
Register into which you wish to store the message;
for now, we are just setting the message entry tech-
nique to (Keyer entry).
018 CW MEMORY 1
019 CW MEMORY 2 MULTI Knob
020 CW MEMORY 3
021 CW MEMORY 4 4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set-
022 CW MEMORY 5 ting.
3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to set the selected CW Memory Reg-
ister to “MESSAGE”. If you want to use your keyer
paddle for message entry on all memories, set all five
Menu items (#018 - #022) to “MESSAGE”.    %106' 5 6 07 / $'4 
   %9 /'/14 ;  /'55#)'
   %9 /'/14 ;  6':6

5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]

   %106' 5 6 07 / $'4  on the LCD to exit to normal operation.
Terminology:
   %9 /'/14 ;  6':6
   %9 /'/14 ;  6':6

PARIS Word Length: By convention among CW and

Amateur operators (utilized by ARRL and others), the
length of one “word” of CW is defined as the length of
the Morse Code characters spelling the word “PARIS”.
This character (dot/dash/space) length is used for the
specific definition of code speed in “words per minute”.

Page 86 FT-991 Operating Manual

 CW Convenience Features
Contest Memory Keyer
Contest Number Programming
Use this process if you are starting a contest, or if you somehow get out of sync with the proper number in the
middle of a contest.
1. Press the MENU (SETUP ) button to enter the MENU(SETUP) Button

Menu mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “017
CONTEST NUMBER”. The current contest num-
ber appears on the TFT display.
3. Touch [SELECT] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to set the Contest Number to the
desired value.
MULTI Knob
Advice:
Touch [BACK] on the LCD to cancel the setting.
4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set-
ting.

   %106' 5 6 07 / $'4 
   %9 /'/14 ;  6':6
   %9 /'/14 ;  6':6

   %106' 5 6 07 / $'4 

   %9 /'/14 ;  6':6
   %9 /'/14 ;  6':6

5. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch

[BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 87

CW Convenience Features
Contest Memory Keyer
Message Memory Programming (Using your Paddle) Note:
1. Set the operating mode to CW. Care must be exercised when sending to ensure that the
2. Set [BK-IN] on the LCD to “Off”. spaces between letters and words are accurately done;
3. Set [KEYER] on the LCD to “On”. if the timing is off, the spacing may not come out right
4. Touch [MEM] on the LCD or press the [MEM] key in the stored message. For ease in setting up the keyer
on the FH-2. A blinking “REC” icon will appear in memories, we recommend setting Menu item “012
the display. KEYER TYPE” to “ACS” (Automatic Character Spacing)
while programming the keyer memories.

Checking the CW Memory Contents

1. Be sure that Break-in is still turned “Off” by [BK-IN]
on the LCD.
2. Touch [MONI] on the LCD to enable the CW moni-
tor.
3. Touch [CH1] - [CH5] on the LCD or press the FH-2
[1] - [5] key, whichever memory you just recorded
in. You will hear the message played in the sidetone
5. Touch [CH1] through [CH5] on the LCD or press
monitor, but no RF energy will be transmitted.
any of the FH-2 keys numbered [1] through [5] to
begin the memory storage process, and the “REC”
icon will glow steadily.

On-The-Air CW Message Playback

1. Touch [BK-IN] on the LCD to enable transmission.
Either Full- or Semi-break-in will be engaged, de-
6. Send the desired message using your keyer paddle. pending on the setting of Menu item “056 CW BK-
Advice: IN TYPE”.
If you do not start keying within ten seconds, the 2. Touch [CH1] - [CH5] on the LCD or press the FH-2
memory storage process will be cancelled. [1] - [5] key, depending on which CW Memory Reg-
7. Touch [MEM] on the LCD or press the [MEM] key ister message you wish to transmit. The programmed
on the FH-2 once more at the end of your message. message will be transmitted on the air.
Up to 50 characters may be stored in each of the five
memories.

Note:
If you subsequently decide to use the “Text Memory”
technique for memory storage, please note that a mes-
sage stored using keyer paddle input will not be trans-
ferred over when you select “Text Memory technique”
on a particular memory register (the Menu Mode Setting
is set to “TEXT”).

Page 88 FT-991 Operating Manual

 CW Convenience Features
Contest Memory Keyer
TEXT Memory
The five channels of CW message memory (up to 50 characters each) may also be programmed using a text-entry tech-
nique. This technique is somewhat slower than sending message directly from the keyer paddle, but accuracy of charac-
ter spacing is ensured. Be sure to enter the character “}” at the end of the text message.
Example 1: CQ CQ CQ DE W6DXC K} (20 characters)
The sequential Contest Number (“Count up”) feature is another powerful feature of the CW Memory Keyer.
Example 2: 599 10 200 # K} (15 characters)

Text Memory Storage

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu
mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the CW Memory
Register into which you wish to store the message;
we are now setting the message entry technique to
(Text entry).
018 CW MEMORY 1
019 CW MEMORY 2
020 CW MEMORY 3
MENU(SETUP) Button
021 CW MEMORY 4
022 CW MEMORY 5
Advice:
The following texts are programmed to the MEM-
ORY 4 and MEMORY 5 in factory default.
MEMORY 4: DE FT-991 K}
MEMORY 5: R 5NN K}
3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the MULTI Knob
MULTI knob to set the selected CW Memory Regis-
ter to “TEXT”. If you want to use text message entry
on all memories, set all five Menu items ( #018 -
#022) to “TEXT”.
4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set-
ting.
5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]
on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

TEXT CW CODE TEXT CW CODE TEXT CW CODE TEXT CW CODE TEXT CW CODE TEXT CW CODE

! SN & AS + AR : OS ? IMI ^

” AF ´ WG , MIM ; KR @ @ _ IQ

# KN - DU < [ }
(

$ SX KK . AAA = BT ￥（＼） AL
)

% KA ＊ / DN > }

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 89

CW Convenience Features
Contest Memory Keyer
Text Message Programming Advice:
1. Press the MODE button to set the operating mode to Use the FH-2 [] and [] keys to set the cursor posi-
CW. tion and use the FH-2’s [ ] and [ ] keys to choose
2. Be sure that Break-in is “Off” with [BK-IN] on the the letter/number to be programmed in each slot of the
LCD, if necessary. memory. In the case of the second example on the previ-
3. Touch [MEM] on the LCD or press the FH-2 [MEM] ous page the “#” character designates the slot where the
key. A blinking “REC” icon will appear in the dis- Contest Number will appear.
play.

8. When the message is complete, add the “}” character

4. Touch [CH1] - [CH5] on the LCD or press an FH-2 at the end to signify the termination of the message.
[1] - [5] key to select the desired CW Memory Reg- 9. Touch [MEM] on the LCD or press and hold in the
ister into which you wish to program the text. The FH-2 [MEM] key for one second to exit, once all
text input screen will appear. characters (including “}”) have been programmed.
Checking the CW Memory Contents
1. Be sure that Break-in is still turned “Off” with [BK-
IN] on the LCD.
2. Touch [MONI] on the LCD to enable the CW moni-
tor.
3. Touch [CH1] - [CH5] on the LCD or press an FH-2
[1] - [5] key, whichever memory you just recorded
in. You will hear the results in the sidetone, but no
RF energy will be transmitted.

5. Touch a key on the LCD to enter the letters, num-

bers, or symbols of the desired label.
6. Repeat step 5 to program the remaining letters, num-
bers, or symbols of the desired text. 12 characters
may be used in the creation of a text.
Use [] and [] on the LCD to set the cursor posi-
tion and [ ] on the LCD to erase a letter at the left
of the cursor.
7. When you have completed the creation of the text,
touch [ENT] on the LCD.

Page 90 FT-991 Operating Manual

 CW Convenience Features
Contest Memory Keyer
Inputting the CW TEXT directly on the screen
Without using the remote control keypad FH-2, you can also input the CW TEXT directly on the screen.
1. Press and hold the MENU(SETUP) button. MENU(SETUP) Button

2. Touch [CW TEXT] on the LCD. The CW text

display screen will appear.

MULTI Knob

5. Repeat step 4 to program the remaining letters,

3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the CW TEXT numbers, or symbols of the desired text. 12 char-
you want to input, then touch [EDIT]. The text acters may be used in the creation of a text.
input screen will appear. Use [] and [] on the LCD to set the cursor
position and [ ] on the LCD to erase a letter at
the left of the cursor.
6. When you have completed the creation of the
text, touch [ENT] on the LCD.

EJ _
EJ _
EJ _

4. Touch a key on the LCD to enter the letters, num-

bers, or symbols of the desired text.

7. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button to save the

new setting and return to normal operation.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 91

CW Convenience Features
Contest Memory Keyer
On-The-Air CW Message Playback
1. Touch [BK-IN] on the LCD to enable transmission. Decrementing the Contest Number
Either Full-break-in or Semi-break-in will be en- Use this process if the current contest number
gaged, depending on the setting of Menu item “056 gets slightly ahead of the actual number you
CW BK-IN TYPE”. want to send (in case of a duplicate QSO, for ex-
2. Touch [CH1] - [CH5] on the LCD or press an FH-2 ample).
[ 1 ] - [ 5 ] key, depending on which CW Memory
Press the FH-2 [DEC] key or touch [DEC/DEL]
Register message you wish to transmit. The pro- on the LCD momentarily. The current Contest
grammed message will be transmitted on the air. Number will be reduced by one. Press of the
FH-2 [DEC] key or touch [DEC/DEL] on the
LCD as many times as necessary to reach the de-
sired number. If you go too far, use the “Contest
Number Programming” technique described pre-
viously.

Transmitting in the Beacon Mode

In “Beacon” mode, it is possible to repeatedly
transmit any message programmed, either via
paddle input, or via the “Text” input method. The
Note: time delay between message repeats may be set
If you subsequently decide to use the “Message Memo- anywhere between 1 and 690 seconds (1 - 240
ry” technique for memory storage, please note that the sec (1 sec/step) or 270 - 690 sec (30 sec/step))
contents of a message stored using text input will not be via Menu item “015 BEACON INTERVAL” If you
transferred over when you set entry to “Message Memo- do not wish the message to repeat in a “Beacon”
ry technique” on a particular memory register (the Menu mode, please set this Menu item to “OFF”.
Mode Setting is set to “MESSAGE”). To transmit the message:
1. Touch [BK-IN] on the LCD to enable trans-
mission. Either Full-break-in or Semi-break-
in will be engaged, depending on the setting
of Menu item “056 CW BK-IN TYPE”.
2. Touch [CH1] - [CH5] on the LCD or press an
FH-2 [1] - [5] key. Repetitive transmission of
the Beacon message will begin.

Page 92 FT-991 Operating Manual

 FM Mode Operation
Basic Operation
1. Press the MODE button, then touch the correspond- MODE Button F(M-LIST) Button

ing key on the LCD to select the FM operating

mode. The “FM” icon appears in the display.

MULTI Knob

2. Set the transceiver to the desired frequency. Advice:

3. Press the microphone PTT switch to transmit. Speak  FM is only used in the 28 MHz, 50 MHz, 144 MHz
into the microphone in a normal voice level. Release and 430 MHz Amateur bands covered by the FT-
the PTT switch to return to receive. 991A. Please do not use FM on any other bands.
Advice:
The MULTI knob can serve as the frequency setting
knob.
To change the MULTI knob frequency step, follow
the below procedure:
Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [CH DIAL]
on the TFT display. Rotate the MULTI knob or touch
[CH DIAL] repeatedly to select the frequency steps
in the following order.
You can also switch the frequency steps by touching
[CH DIAL] repeatedly.
“2.5kHz”  “5kHz”  “9kHz”  “10kHz”
 “12.5kHz”  “25kHz”  “2.5kHz”
4. Adjustment of the microphone gain may be ac-
complished in two ways. At the factory, a default
level has been programmed that should be satisfac-
tory for most situations. To change the microphone
gain, press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [MIC
GAIN] on the LCD. Rotate the MULTI knob func-
tion as the microphone gain adjustment knob. Rotate
the MULTI knob to adjust the microphone gain.
MIC GAIN (Microphone Gain) indicator

MIC GAIN (Microphone Gain) level indicator

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 93

FM Mode Operation
Repeater Operation
The FT-991A may be utilized on 29 MHz, 50 MHz, 144 MHz and 430 MHz repeaters.

1. Rotate the Main Tuning Dial knob to set the FT- F(M-LIST) Button

991A to the desired repeater’s output frequency

(downlink from the repeater).
2. If CTCSS Tone operation is desired/needed, press
the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [TONE/DCS] on
the LCD to engage the CTCSS mode.

MULTI Knob

CTCSS Tone Frequency (Hz)

67.0 69.3 71.9 74.4 77.0 79.7 82.5 85.4
88.5 91.5 94.8 97.4 100.0 103.5 107.2 110.9
114.8 118.8 123.0 127.3 131.8 136.5 141.3 146.2
151.4 156.7 159.8 162.2 165.5 167.9 171.3 173.8
177.3 179.9 183.5 186.2 189.9 192.8 196.6 199.5
3. Touch [ TONE/DCS ] on the LCD repeatedly to 203.5 206.5 210.7 218.1 225.7 229.1 233.6 241.8
select the desired CTCSS mode. If the repeater re- 250.3 254.1 - - - - - -
quires an uplink encoding tone, select “ENC.” For
both uplink and downlink encode/decode operation,
choose “CTCSS”. The available choices are: 6. Press and hold the microphone PTT switch to begin
“OFF”  “ENC (Tone Encoder)” transmission. You will observe that the frequency
 “CTCSS (Tone Squelch)” has shifted to correspond to the programming set up
 “DCS (Digital Code Squelch)”  “OFF” in the previous steps. Speak into the microphone in a
4. Touch [RPT] repeatedly on the LCD to select the normal voice level. Release the PTT switch to return
desired repeater shift direction. The selections are: to the receive mode.
“SIMP”  “+”  “–”  “SIMP”
Advice:
where “SIMP” represents “Simplex” operation (not
 The conventional repeater shift used on 29 MHz is
used on a repeater).
100 kHz, while on the 50 MHz band the shift may
vary between 500 kHz and 1.7 MHz (or more). On
the 144 MHz band, the shift will be 600 kHz; on
the 430 MHz band, the shift will be 1.6 MHz or 7.6
MHz (5 MHz for the U.S.A. version). To program
the proper repeater shift, use Menu items “080
RPT SHIFT 28MHz” (28 MHz), “081 RPT SHIFT
50MHz” ( 50 MHz ) , “082 RPT SHIFT 144MHz”
(144 MHz), and “083 RPT SHIFT 430MHz” (430
5. Touch [FWD] to switch the display screen, and then MHz) as appropriate.
touch [TONE ]. Rotate the MULTI knob to select  Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [REV] on
the desired CTCSS Tone to be used. A total of 50 the LCD to reverse the transmission and reception
standard CTCSS tones are provided (see the CTCSS frequencies temporarily to check whether direct
Tone Chart). communication with the partner station is possible.
When reversing the frequencies, + or − will flash.
When [REV] is touched one more time, the reverse
is cancelled.

Page 94 FT-991 Operating Manual

 FM Mode Operation
Repeater Operation
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS)
The FT-991A ARS feature causes the appropriate repeater shift to be automatically applied whenever it is tuned into the
designated repeater sub-bands.
If the ARS feature does not appear to be working, you may have accidentally disabled it.
To re-enable ARS:
1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu MENU(SETUP) Button

mode.
2. To use the ARS function at 144 MHz, select “084
ARS 144MHz”. To use the ARS function at 430
MHz, select “085 ARS 430MHz” by rotating the
MULTI knob.
3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to set this Menu item to “ON”.
MULTI Knob

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4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set-

ting.
5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]
on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

Tone Calling (1750 Hz)

Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function list, then touch [T.CALL] on the LCD. While you are pressing
and holding [T.CALL] to generates a 1750 Hz burst tone to access the repeater. The transmitter will automatically be
activated, and a 1750 Hz audio tone will be superimposed on the carrier. Once access to the repeater has been gained,
you may release the [T.CALL], and use the PTT switch for activating the transmitter thereafter.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 95

FM Mode Operation
Tone Squelch Operation
The “Tone Squelch” may be activated to keep the receiver silent until an incoming signal modulated with a matching
CTCSS tone is received. The receiver squelch will then open in response to the reception of the required tone.

1. Press the MODE button, and then touch the corre- 5. Touch [FWD] to switch the screen, and then touch
sponding key on the LCD to select the FM operating [TONE]. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the de-
mode. The “FM” icon appears in the display. sired CTCSS Tone to be used. A total of 50 standard
2. Set the transceiver to the desired frequency. CTCSS tones are provided (see the CTCSS Tone
3. If CTCSS Tone operation is desired/needed, press Chart).
the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [TONE/DCS] on
the LCD to engage the CTCSS mode.

CTCSS Tone Frequency (Hz)

67.0 69.3 71.9 74.4 77.0 79.7 82.5 85.4
4. Touch [ TONE/DCS ] on the LCD repeatedly to 88.5 91.5 94.8 97.4 100.0 103.5 107.2 110.9
choose “CTCSS” from the available choices of 114.8 118.8 123.0 127.3 131.8 136.5 141.3 146.2
151.4 156.7 159.8 162.2 165.5 167.9 171.3 173.8
“OFF”  “ENC (Tone Encoder)” 177.3 179.9 183.5 186.2 189.9 192.8 196.6 199.5
 “CTCSS (Tone Squelch)” 203.5 206.5 210.7 218.1 225.7 229.1 233.6 241.8
 “DCS (Digital Code Squelch)”  “OFF” 250.3 254.1 - - - - - -

DCS Operation
The “DCS” may be activated to keep the receiver silent until an incoming signal modulated with a matching DCS code
is received. The receiver squelch will then open in response to the reception of the required code.

1. Press the MODE button, and then touch the corre- 5. Touch [FWD] to switch the screen, and then touch
sponding key on the LCD to select the FM operating [DCS]. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the desired
mode. The “FM” icon appears in the display. DCS code to be used. A total of 104 DCS codes are
2. Set the transceiver to the desired frequency. provided (see the DCS Code Chart).
3. If DCS operation is desired/needed, press the F(M-
LIST) button, then touch [TONE/DCS] on the LCD
to engage the DCS mode.

DCS CODE
023 025 026 031 032 036 043 047
051 053 054 065 071 072 073 074
114 115 116 122 125 131 132 134
4. Touch [ TONE/DCS ] on the LCD repeatedly to 143 145 152 155 156 162 165 172
choose “DCS” from the available choices of 174 205 212 223 225 226 243 244
“OFF”  “ENC (Tone Encoder)”  245 246 251 252 255 261 263 265
266 271 274 306 311 315 325 331
 “CTCSS (Tone Squelch)” 
332 343 346 351 356 364 365 371
 “EDCS (DCS Encoder)”  411 412 413 423 431 432 445 446
 “DCS (Digital Code Squelch)”  “OFF” 452 454 455 462 464 465 466 503
506 516 523 526 532 546 565 606
612 624 627 631 632 654 662 664
703 712 723 731 732 734 743 754

Page 96 FT-991 Operating Manual

C4FM Mode (Digital Mode) Operation
The FT-991A transceiver is capable of using 2, C4FM digital modes: the “V/D mode” which communicates voice and
data simultaneously, and the “Voice FR mode” which transmits digital voice data using the full 12.5 kHz bandwidth.

1. Press the MODE button, and then touch the corre- MODE Button
sponding key on the LCD to select the C4FM operat-
ing mode. The “C4FM” icon appears in the display.

2. Set the transceiver to the desired operating frequen-

cy.
Advice:
The VFO-A frequency can be changed by rotating
the Main Tuning Dial knob or using one of the fol-
lowing methods. For details, see page 44.
 Setting the frequency directly using the number
keys.
 Setting the frequency by rotating the MULTI
knob.
 Setting the frequency using the UP/DWN buttons
on the microphone.
3. Press and hold the PTT button on the microphone (or
touch the [MOX] on the LCD) to change the trans-
ceiver to transmit mode, then speak into the micro-
phone.
Release the PTT button ( or touch the [ MOX ] again
if you pressed [MOX] to enter the transmit mode) to
change the transceiver back to the receive mode.
Advice:
 Digital communication mode can be switched be-
tween V/D mode and FR mode (see “Toggling to the
Digital Communication Mode” on page 41).
 The AMS (Automatic Mode Select) function enables
the transceiver to select the appropriate communica-
tion mode according to the received signal. Using
the AMS function, the transceiver recognizes either
analog (FM) or C4FM digital signals and automati-
cally changes to the same communication mode as
the contact station.
Note:
 When communicating in V/D mode (“DN” is dis-
played on the LCD), the station location information
is contained within the transmitted digital signal. In
Voice FR mode (“VW” is displayed on the LCD), the
location information is not included in the transmit-
ted signals.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 97

C4FM Mode (Digital Mode) Operation
Notification When the Contact Station Completes a Transmission (Standby Beep Function)
When communicating in C4FM mode, an audible beep sounds to indicate that the contact station has completed
a transmission (Standby Beep function).
To change the Standby Beep function “ON/OFF”, follow the procedure below.

1. Press the MENU (SETUP ) button to enter the MENU(SETUP) Button

Menu mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “091
STANDBY BEEP”.
3. Touch [SELECT] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to set this Menu item to “ON” or
“OFF” (the default setting is “ON”).

MULTI Knob

4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set-

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5. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button or touch

[BACK] on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

Page 98 FT-991 Operating Manual

 DG-ID/DP-ID Features
Digital Group ID (DG-ID) feature
The DG-ID function can set up two-digit DG-ID numbers from “00” to “99” separately for Transmit and Receive. By
setting both transmit and receive to “00” (default), you can communicate with all the other stations in the digital C4FM
mode.By matching the transmit DG-ID number to the uplink DG-ID number set in club the DR-2X/XE System Fusion
II digital repeater, you can access the digital repeater DR-2X/XE used in the club. For communication only among a
group of friend’s transceivers, you can all match the same DG-ID number; then only your friend’s voices will be heard.
Also, by using the GM function you can check whether stations with the same DG-ID are in the communication range.
The FT-991A may register transmit and receive DG-ID numbers in the DG-ID memories (up to 10 pairs).

Register the DG-ID number in the DG-ID memory

Example: Enter the transmit DG-ID number “50” and the receive DG-ID number “50” into the DG-ID memory “01”.
1. Press the MODE button, then touch [C4FM]. Advice:
2. Touch and hold [GM] on the LCD.  The DG-ID of memory “00” is fixed at “TX 00,
The DG-ID LIST is displayed. RX 00” and cannot be changed.
6. Touch [ENT].
7. Touch [RX].
DG-ID LIST The receive DG-ID number setting screen is
00 TX: 0 0 RX : 00
displayed.
01 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D O1
02 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D 0 2 8. Enter the “50” of the DG-ID number, touching the
03 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D 0 3 keys on the LCD.
TX RX TAG SELECT

Note: RX 50
 The DG-ID of memory “00” is fixed at “TX 00,
RX 00” and cannot be changed.
 The transmit and receive DG-ID default number
is set to “00”.
 Normally, for general operation set the DG-ID
number to “00” for both transmit and receive.
9. Touch [ENT].
3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the DG-ID “01” 10. Touch [TAG].
memory register to store the TX and RX DG-ID The input screen of the DG-ID tag is displayed.
numbers. Use the keys on the LCD to input the characters of
the DG-ID tag. Up to 8 characters can be entered.

DG-ID LIST
00 TX: 0 0 RX : 00
TAG YAESU
01 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D O1
02 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D 0 2

03 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D 0 3

TX RX TAG SELECT

4. Touch [TX].
The transmit DG-ID number setting screen is 11. Touch [ENT] to save the setting and return to DG-ID
displayed. LIST screen.
5. Enter the “50” of the DG-ID number, touching the 12. Touch [BACK] to return to normal operation.
keys on the LCD.
Note:
 w h e n t h e r e c e i v e D G - I D n u m b e r o f t h e
transceiver is set to a DG-ID number other than
TX 50 “00”, received signals that do not have the same
DG-ID number may not be heard.
 The transmit and receive DG-ID default number
is set to “00”.
 Normally, for general operation set the DG-ID
number to “00” for both transmit and receive.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 99

DG-ID/DP-ID Features
Recall and use the DG-ID number registered in the DG-ID memory
1. Press the [MODE] button, then touch [C4FM]. This completes the recalling of the DG-ID.
2. Touch and hold [GM] on the LCD. When using the DG-ID memory, the tag of the DG-
The DG-ID LIST is displayed. ID memory being used is displayed every 3 seconds.
If the DG-ID memory is “00”, the DG-ID memory
tag is not displayed.
DG-ID LIST
00 TX: 0 0 RX : 00
01 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D O1
02 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D 0 2

03 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D 0 3

TX RX TAG SELECT

3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the DG-ID memory

number “01”.



4. Touch [SELECT].
A check mark is attached to the selected DG-ID list
number, and the number and tag are shown in green.

DG-ID LIST
00 TX: 0 0 RX : 00
01 TX: 5 0 RX : 50 DG- I D O1
02 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D 0 2

03 TX: 0 0 RX : 00 DG- I D 0 3
Note:
TX RX TAG SELECT
 Normally, for general operation set the DG-ID
list register number to “00”. DG-ID number
5. Touch [BACK] to return to normal operation. “00” can not be changed. The transmit and
receive DG-ID number of register “00” cannot
be changed.

Use the GM (Group Monitor) with the DG-ID function

1. Touch [GM] to turn the GM (Group Monitor) The other stations must also turn the GM function ON.
function ON, in order to find if other Group Member The call sign, the distance and the direction of up to
stations are operating within communications range. 24 stations operating with the GM function ON, set
The “GM” icon is shown at the upper left of the to the same DG-ID number, and that are within the
display. communication range, may be tracked.
Rotate the MULTI knob to select the other stations.
2. Touch [GM] to turn the GM (Group Monitor)
function OFF.
6 :  4:  & ) +&  
, *      , 3      Note:
 If the receive DG-ID number is set to other than
"00", note that signals without the same DG-ID
number cannot be heard.

Page 100 FT-991 Operating Manual

 DG-ID/DP-ID Features
Digital Personal ID (DP-ID) feature
Every C4FM digital transmit communication contains the individual ID information (Radio ID) of each transceiver.
The DP-ID function uses this individual ID information. By registering the DP-ID of the transceiver to the DR-2X
System Fusion II digital repeater, the digital repeater may be controlled by remote operation. When the DP-IDs of the
transceiver are registered with each other, they can communicate even if the DG-ID numbers are different.

Registering the DP-ID to a DR-2X digital repeater

After registering the transceiver’s DP-ID to the DR-2X repeater, the settings and functions of the DR-2X can be
remotely controlled. Remote control cannot be performed from a transceiver that has not been registered with the DP-
ID, so it is possible to securely manage repeaters.
Note:
 To register the transceiver DP-ID in the DR-2X C4FM digital repeater, refer to the DR-2X instruction manual.

DR-2X Remote Control Feature

To display the remote-control screen of the FT-991A, touch and hold [AMS] on the LCD in C4FM digital mode. To
return to normal mode, touch [BACK] on the LCD. For details on the remote-control function of the DR-2X, refer to
the DR-2X instruction manual.
• Activate the repeater operation
• Deactivate the repeater operation
• Set the repeater to C4FM mode
• Set the transmit power
• Voice Message Control (Rec / Play / Stop)
• Set the Emergency Call

Register the transceivers

1. Press the [MODE] button, then touch [C4FM]. in the DP-ID list is changed to register the new
2. Touch and hold [DIGITAL] on the LCD. call sign.
The DP-ID LIST is displayed.
4. Touch [OK] to save the setting.
When registering in the DP-ID list is finished, the
display returns to the DP-ID list screen.
DP-ID LIST To continue operating without registering the DP-ID,
touch [Cancel].
If registering several DP-IDs, repeat steps 3 to 4.
A maximum of 24 stations may be registered.

3. While the DP-ID list is displayed, a transmission in DP-ID LIST

the digital C4FM mode from the other transceiver 01 YA E S U *****

will register the DP-ID.

When a signal from the other station is received, the
call sign and the radio ID are displayed on the LCD. DELETE

5. Touch [BACK] to return to normal operation.

DP-ID LIST Register the DP-ID of all the transceivers in
the group to another transceiver using the same
operation.
Advice:
 Once the DP-ID is registered, the DP-ID is stored
until the DG-ID is deleted.
Advice:  Register with another transceiver while the
 When a signal from the already registered transceivers are near each other.
transceiver is received, the display of DP-ID list
does not change.
 When registering a transceiver already registered
with a different call sign, the call sign registered

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 101

DG-ID/DP-ID Features
Deleting the registered DP-ID

1. Press the [MODE] button, then touch [C4FM]. 5. Touch [OK] to delete the call sign.
2. Touch and hold [DIGITAL] on the LCD. When deleting in the DP-ID list is finished, the
The DP-ID LIST is displayed. display returns to the DP-ID list screen.
To return to normal operation without deleting the
DP-ID, touch [Cancel].
DP-ID LIST
If deleting several DP-IDs, repeat steps 3 to 5.
01 YA E S U *****

DP-ID LIST
DELETE

3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the call sign to be

deleted.
4. Touch [DELETE].
The confirmation screen is displayed. 6. Touch [BACK] to return to normal operation.

DP-ID LIST
01 YA E S U *****
DELETE

Page 102 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Memory Operation
Convenient Memory functions
The FT-991A contains ninety-nine regular memories, labeled “01” through “99”, nine special programmed band edge
memory pairs, labeled “P-1L/P-1U” through “P-9L/P-9U”, and five QMB (Quick Memory Bank) memories. Each mem-
ory stores various settings, in addition to the VFO-A frequency and mode, but also stores the various settings shown be-
low. By default, the 99 regular memories are contained in one group; however, they can be arranged in up to six separate
groups, if desired.
Quick Point: Regular Memory Channels PMS Memory Channels
The FT-991A memory channels store the following
data (not just the operating frequency):
 VFO-A Frequency 99 P-9L/9U
98 P-8L/8U
 VFO-A Mode 97 P-7L/7U
 Clarifier status and its Offset Frequency P-6L/6U
P-5L/5U
 IPO status P-4L/4U

 Attenuator status 02
03 P-3L/3U
P-2L/2U
 Noise Blanker status 01 P-1L/1U

 IF SHIFT and WIDTH status

 CONTOUR status and its Peak Frequency
 DSP Noise Reduction (DNR ) status and its
Reduction algorithm selection.
 DSP Notch filter (NOTCH) status QMB Memory Bank
 NAR bandwidth status
 DSP Auto Notch filter (DNF) status
 Repeater Shift Direction
 CTCSS Tone information ( CTCSS Encode,
Decode ON/OFF; Tone Frequency)
 DCS information (DCS On/Off, DCS Code)

QMB (Quick Memory Bank)

The Quick Memory Bank consists of five memories independent from the regular and PMS memories. The QMB mem-
ories can quickly store operating parameters for later recall.
QMB Channel Storage
RCL/STO Button
1. Tune to the desired frequency on VFO-A.
2. Press and hold the RCL/STO button for one second.
The “beep” will confirm that the VFO-A contents
have been written to the currently available QMB
memory.
Repeated one second presses of the RCL/STO but-
ton will write the VFO-A contents to successive QMB
memories.
V/M Button
Once all five QMB memories have data on them, previ-
ous data will be over-written on a first-in, first-out basis.

QMB Channel Recall Advice:

1. Press the RCL/STO button briefly. The current Rotating the Main Tuning Dial knob, or changing the
QMB channel data will be shown on the frequency operating mode, will place the transceiver in the “Mem-
display area. The “QMB” icon will also appear and ory Tune” mode, which is a temporary “pseudo-VFO”
the Memory Mode indicators in the LED indicators method of tuning off of a stored memory channel. If you
area will illuminate. do not over-write the contents of the current memory
2. Repeated brief presses of the RCL/STO button will channel, the original contents will not be disturbed by
toggle through the QMB channels. the initiation of Memory Tune operation.
3. Press the V/M button to return to the VFO or Memo-
ry mode.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 103

Memory Operation
Standard Memory Operation
The Standard Memory of the FT-991A allows storage and recall of up to 99 memories, each storing frequency, mode,
and a wide variety of status information, detailed previously. Memories may be grouped into as many as six Memory
Groups. Additionally there are nine pairs of band-limit (PMS) memories along with five QMB (Quick Memory Bank)
memories.

Memory Storage
1. Set VFO-A up with the frequency, mode, and status,
the way you want to have it stored.
2. Press the A  M button momentarily; the current
channel number will appear in the display and the
“MCK” notation will appear.

MULTI Knob AM Button

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  E J      

3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the memory chan-

nel that you wish to store the data on.
4. Press and hold in the AM button for one second to
store the frequency and other data into the selected
memory channel. A double beep will sound to con-
firm that the operation is completed.

Memory Channel Recall

1. Press the V/M button, if necessary, to enter the F(M-LIST) Button
“Memory mode”.
2. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [MCH] on
the LCD. A memory channel number and the “MCH”
notation will appear in the display.

MULTI Knob V/M Button

Advice:
To work within a particular Memory Group, press the
F ( M-LIST ) button, then touch [ GRP ] on the LCD.
Rotate the MULTI knob to select the desired Memory
3. Touch [ MCH ] on the LCD, and then rotate the Group, then touch [ MCH ] on the LCD ( the “MCH”
MULTI knob to select the desired memory channel. notation will appear instead of the “GRP”); Now the
memory channel may be chosen from within the select-
ed Memory Group.

Page 104 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Memory Operation
Standard Memory Operation
Recalling the Home Channel
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [HOME] F(M-LIST) Button

on the LCD. The home channel frequency will be

shown in the display.

Advice:
Change the frequency using Main Tuning Dial knob
to return to the VFO mode.
Touch [HOME] again to return to the VFO mode and Advice:
display the frequency that was selected before the home In the default setting, the Home channel frequencies of
channel was recalled. each band are set as follows.
HF band: 29.60000 MHz (USA/EXP Version)
29.30000 MHz
50 MHz band: 52.52500 MHz (USA/EXP Version)
51.00000 MHz
144 MHz band: 146.52000 MHz (USA/EXP Version)
145.00000 MHz
430 MHz band: 446.00000 MHz (USA/EXP Version)
446.00000 MHz

Changing the Frequency of the Home Channel

The default frequency setting of the home channel when shipped from the factory can be changed.
1. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [HOME] BAND Button F(M-LIST) Button

on the LCD. The home channel will be shown in the

display.

3. Set the desired frequency, then touch [ENT] on the

LCD to exit to normal operation.

2. Press the BAND button, then touch [ENT].

When the writing to the home channel is completed,

the updated home channel frequency will be dis-
played.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 105

Memory Operation
Standard Memory Operation
Labeling Memories
An Alphanumeric “Tag” (label) may be appended to a memory or memories, to aid in recollection of the channel’s use
(such as a club name, etc.). To do this:

1. Press and hold in the F(M-LIST) button. F(M-LIST) Button

The data stored in the currently selected memory

channel will be displayed on the TFT.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to recall the memory chan-
nel that you wish to append a label.
3. Touch [TAG] on the LCD.
A cursor will appear on the first digit.

MULTI Knob

   %9 7
EJ      %9 7
  E J      

4. Touch a key on the LCD to enter the letters, num-

bers, or symbols of the desired label.
5. Repeat step 5 to program the remaining letters, num-
bers, or symbols of the desired label. 12 characters
may be used in the creation of a label.
Use [] and [] on the LCD to set the cursor posi-
tion and [ ] on the LCD to erase a letter at the left
of the cursor.
6. When you have completed the creation of the label,
touch [ENT] on the LCD.

7. Press the F(M-LIST) button to save the new setting

and return to normal operation.

Page 106 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Memory Operation
Standard Memory Operation
Checking a Memory Channel Status
Before programming a channel into memory, you can check the current contents of that channel without the danger of
over-writing the channel accidentally.

1. Press the AM button momentarily.

The data stored in the currently selected memory
channel will be displayed on the TFT. However,
since you are only checking the contents of the
memory channel, the radio will not have moved to
the memory channel frequency.

MULTI Knob AM Button

   %9 7
EJ       %9 7 61-;1
  E J      

2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select a different memory

channel. To exit from the Memory Check mode,
press the AM button momentarily once more.
Advice:
 While operating in the VFO mode, using Memory
Check, you may store the current VFO frequency
into the selected memory by pressing and holding
in the AM button for one second (until the double
beep).

Erasing Memory Channel Data

1. Press and hold in the F(M-LIST) button. F(M-LIST) Button

2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the memory chan-

nel that you would like to erase.
3. Touch [ERASE] on the LCD.

MULTI Knob
EJ    %9 7 61-;1
EJ      %9 7
  E J      

Advice:
 The FT-991A cannot erase memory channel “01”
(and channels “5-01” through “5-10”: U.S. version).
 If you make a mistake and wish to restore the memo-
ry contents, just repeat steps (1) through (3) above.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 107

Memory Operation
Standard Memory Operation
Memory Tune Operation
The frequency may be freely tuned off from any memory channel in “Memory Tune” mode; this is similar to VFO op-
eration. So long as you do not over-write the contents of the current memory, Memory Tune operation will not alter the
contents of the memory channel.

1. Press the V/M button to recall any memory channel. F(M-LIST) Button

2. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [MCH] on

the LCD.

MULTI Knob V/M Button

Note:
3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the memory chan-
Computer software programs utilizing the CAT system
nel.
interface port may presume that the transceiver is oper-
4. Rotate the Main Tuning Dial knob; you will now ob-
ating in the VFO mode, for certain features like “band
serve that the memory channel frequency is chang-
mapping” and/or frequency logging, because the “Mem-
ing.
ory Tune” mode so closely resembles the VFO mode. Be
Advice:
sure that you have the FT-991A operating in a control
 During Memory Tune operation, you may change
mode compatible with the software’s requirements. Use
operating modes, and engage the offset Clarifier,
the VFO mode if you’re not sure.
if desired.
5. Press the V/M button momentarily to return to the
originally memorized frequency of the current mem-
ory channel. One more press of the V/M button will
return to VFO operation.

Page 108 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Memory Operation
Standard Memory Operation
Split Memory
Separate frequencies for transmit and receive can be registered for each memory channel.

1. Set VFO-A up with the frequency, mode, and status

(see “Convenient Memory Functions” on page 97),
the way you want to have it stored.
2. Press the A  M button momentarily; the current
channel number will appear in the display and the
“MCK” notation will appear.

MULTI Knob AM Button

EJ  .5$

  E J        
  E J      

3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the memory chan-

nel that you wish to store the data on.
4. Press and hold in the AM button for one second
to store the receive frequency and other data into the
selected memory channel. A double beep will con-
firm that the AM button was held in long enough
and the data is registered.
5. Enter the transmit frequency, mode, and status (see
“Convenient Memory Functions” on page 97), the
way you want to have it stored.

Advice:
6. Press the AM button. Make sure that the memory When a split-frequency memory channel is recalled,
channel storing the receive frequency is selected. “DUP” is displayed on the LCD.

Displays DUP

EJ  .5$

  E J       (/
  E J      

7. To register the transmit frequency, press and hold the

PTT button on the microphone, and simultaneously
press and hold the A  M button. A double beep
will confirm that the AM button was held in long
enough and the data is registered. When the memory
writing is completed, the receive frequency will be
shown in the display.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 109

Memory Operation
Memory Groups
Memory channels may be arranged into as many as six convenient groups, for easy identification and selection. For ex-
ample, different memory groups may be designated for AM BC stations, short-wave broadcast stations, contest frequen-
cies, repeater frequencies, PMS limits, or any other groupings you might like.
Each memory group is capable of holding up to 20 memory channels (except Memory Group 01 is 19 memory chan-
nels, and the Group size is fixed).

Memory Group Assignment

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu MENU(SETUP) Button
mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “034
MEM GROUP”.
3. Touch [ SELECT] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to set this Menu item to “ENABLE” (the
default setting is “DISABLE”).

MULTI Knob

Memory Channel Number

01 - 19
20 - 39
   /' / ) 4 1 72 &+5#$.'
40 - 59
   37+%- 5 2 . +6 (4'3  M *\
   6: 616 1( (
60 - 79
80 - 99
P-1L/1U - P-9L/9U
5M-01 - 5M-10
4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set-
ting.

   / ' / ) 4 1 72 '0#$.'
   37+%- 5 2 . +6 (4'3 M * \
   6: 616 1( (

5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or [BACK] on the

LCD to exit. Operation will now be restricted to the
six Memory Groups.
To cancel Memory Group operation, repeat steps (1)
through (4) above, choosing “DISABLE” in step (3).
Advice:
To avoid confusion, note that the PMS memory group
and the PMS memories “P-1L” through “P-9U” will be
so designated.

Page 110 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Memory Operation
Memory Groups
Choosing the Desired Memory Group
If desired, memories just within a particular Memory Group may be recalled.

1. Press the V/M button, if necessary, to enter the F(M-LIST) Button

“Memory” mode.
2. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [GRP] on
the LCD. The “GRP” icon will appear on the dis-
play.

MULTI Knob V/M Button

3. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the desired Memo-

ry Group.
4. Touch [MCH] on the LCD. The “MCH” icon will
appear on the display.

5. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the desired Memo-

ry Channel within the Selected Memory Group.
Advice:
If no channels have been assigned to a particular Memo-
ry Group, that Group cannot be accessed.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 111

Operation on Alaska Emergency Frequency: 5167.5 khz (U.S. Version Only)
Section 97.401(d) of the regulations governing amateur radio in the United States permit emergency amateur commu-
nications on the spot frequency of 5167.5 kHz by stations in (or within 92.6 km of) the state of Alaska. This frequency
is only to be used when the immediate safety of human life and/or property are threatened, and is never to be used for
routine communications.
The FT-991A includes the capability for transmission and reception on 5167.5 kHz under such emergency conditions
via the Menu system. To activate this feature:

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu MENU(SETUP) Button F(M-LIST) Button
mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “149
EMERGENCY FREQ TX”.
3. Touch [ SELECT] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to select “ENABLE.”

MULTI Knob V/M Button

   #0 6 + & 81:
: )# + 0 
   '/'
' 4)' 0 % ; (4'3 6: &+5#$.'
   2 4 6 9 +4
4 '5 ( 4 ' 3 /# 07#.

4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new set- 8. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the emergency
ting. channel (“EMG”), which is found between channels
“5-10” and “01ch”).
Note:
 The receive-mode CLARIFIER functions normally
while using this frequency, but variation of the trans-
mit frequency is not possible. The full specifications
of the FT-991A are not necessarily guaranteed on
   #0 6 + & 81:
: )# + 0 
   '/' 4)' 0 % ; (4'3 6: '0#$.'
   2 4 6  9 +4
4'5 (4'3  OU G E
this frequency, but power output and receiver sensi-
tivity should be fully satisfactory for the purpose of
emergency communication.
5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or [BACK] on the  If you wish to disable operation capability on the
LCD to exit to normal operation. Emergency com- Alaska Emergency Frequency, repeat the above pro-
munication on this spot frequency is now possible. cedures, but set the Menu item “149 EMERGENCY
6. Press the V/M button, as necessary, to enter the FREQ TX” to “DISABLE” in step 3.
Memory mode.  In an emergency, note that a half-wave dipole cut
7. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [MCH] on for this frequency should be approximately 45’3” on
the LCD. each leg (90’6” total length). Emergency operation
on 5167.5 kHz is shared with the Alaska-Fixed Ser-
vice. This transceiver is not authorized for operation,
under the FCC Part 87, for aeronautical communica-
tions.

Page 112 FT-991 Operating Manual

 VFO and Memory Scanning
VFO Scanning
Either the VFO or the memory channels of the FT-991A may be scanned, and the receiver will halt scanning on any
frequency with a signal strong enough to open the receiver squelch.

1. Set the VFO-A to the frequency on which you would F(M-LIST) Button

like to begin scanning.

2. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [SQL] on
the LCD. Rotate the MULTI knob so that the back-
ground noise is just silenced.

MULTI Knob

3. Press and hold in the microphone UP or DWN but-

Advice:
ton for one second, or press the F(M-LIST) button
 If the scan has paused on a signal, pressing the mi-
followed by [SCAN] to start scanning in the speci-
crophone UP or DWN button, or touching [SCAN]
fied direction on the VFO frequency.
on the LCD will cause scanning to resume instantly.
 If you press the microphone PTT button during
scanning, the scanner will halt at once. However,
pressing the PTT button during scanning will not
cause transmission.
 The manner in which the scanner resumes after it has
paused on a signal may be selected by using Menu
item “038 MIC SCAN RESUME”. The default “TIME”
(5 sec) setting will cause the scanner to resume scan-
ning after five seconds; however the scan setting
4. If the scanner halts on an incoming signal, the deci-
may be changed to resume only after the received
mal point between the “MHz” and “kHz” digits of
signal has dropped out.
the frequency display will blink.
 If the Main Tuning Dial knob is rotated while scan-
Advice:
ning is in progress, the scanning will continue up
 If the incoming signal disappears, scanning will
or down in frequency according to the direction of
resume in about five seconds.
the Dial Knob rotation. (in other words, if the dial
 On the SSB/CW and SSB-based Data modes, the
is rotated to the left when scanning toward a higher
scanner will pause on a received signal, then will
frequency, the direction of the scan will reverse.)
step across the signal very slowly, giving you
time to stop the scan, if you like. In these modes Quick Point:
on the VFO, the scanner does not stop, however. If you have no interest in scanning, and wish to prohibit
5. To cancel scanning, press the PTT switch, or touch the microphone UP/DWN buttons from initiating scan-
[SCAN] on the LCD. ning, you may disable scanning control from the mi-
crophone using Menu item “037 MIC SCAN” (set it to
“DISABLE”).

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 113

VFO and Memory Scanning
Memory Scan
1. Set the transceiver to the “Memory” mode by press- F(M-LIST) Button

ing the V/M button, if necessary.

2. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [SQL] on
the LCD. Rotate the MULTI knob so that the back-
ground noise is just silenced.

MULTI Knob V/M Button

3. Press and hold in the microphone UP or DWN but-

ton for one second, or press the F(M-LIST) button
followed by [SCAN] to start scanning in the speci-
fied direction.
Advice:
 During Memory Group operation, only the channels
within the current Memory Group will be scanned.
 If the scan has paused on a signal, pressing the mi-
crophone UP or DWN button, or touching [SCAN]
on the LCD will cause scanning to resume instantly.
 If you press the microphone PTT button during
scanning, the scanner will halt at once. However,
pressing the PTT button during scanning will not
cause transmission.
Advice:  The manner in which the scanner resumes after it has
 If the scanner halts on an incoming signal, the paused on a signal may be selected by using Menu
decimal point between the “MHz” and “kHz” item “038 MIC SCAN RESUME”. During memory
digits of the frequency display will blink. scanning, the default “TIME” ( 5 sec ) setting will
 If the incoming signal disappears, scanning will cause the scanner to resume scanning after five sec-
resume in about five seconds. onds; however the scan may be set, to resume only
4. To cancel scanning, press the PTT switch, or touch after the received signal has dropped out.
[SCAN] on the LCD.  If the Main Tuning Dial knob is rotated while scan-
ning is in progress, the memory channel scanning
will continue up or down in accordance with the di-
rection of the Dial Knob rotation. (In other words, if
the dial is rotated to the left when scanning toward a
higher channel number, the direction of the scan will
reverse.)
Quick Point:
If you have no interest in scanning, and wish to prohibit
the microphone UP/DWN buttons from initiating scan-
ning, you may disable scanning control from the mi-
crophone using Menu item “037 MIC SCAN” (set it to
“DISABLE”).

Page 114 FT-991 Operating Manual

 PMS (Programmable Memory Scanning)
To limit scanning (and manual tuning) within a particular frequency range, the Programmable Memory Scanning (PMS)
feature utilizes nine special-purpose memory pairs (“P-1L/P-1U” through “P-9L/P-9U”). The PMS feature is especially
useful in helping you to observe any operating sub-band limits, which apply to your Amateur license class.

1. Store the Lower and Upper tuning/scanning limit F(M-LIST) Button

frequencies into the memory pair “P-1L” and “P-1U”,
respectively, or any other “L/U” pair of memories
in the special PMS memory area. See page 104 for
details regarding memory storage.
2. Press the V/M button to enter the “Memory” mode.
3. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [MCH] on
the TFT display. The LEDs indicating the Memory
mode will illuminate. MULTI Knob V/M Button

Advice:
 If the scanner halts on an incoming signal, the deci-
mal point between the “MHz” and “kHz” digits of
4. Rotate the MULTI knob to select memory channel
the frequency display will blink.
“P-1L” or “P-1U”.
 If the incoming signal disappears, scanning will re-
5. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [SQL] on
sume in about five seconds.
the LCD. Rotate the MULTI knob so that the back-
 On the SSB/CW and SSB-based Data modes, the
ground noise is just silenced.
scanner will pause on a received signal, then will
step across the signal very slowly, giving you time to
stop the scan, if you like. However, in these modes
on the VFO, the scanner does not stop.
 If the scan has paused on a signal, pressing the mi-
crophone UP or DWN button, or touching [SCAN]
on the LCD will cause scanning to resume instantly.
 If the Main Tuning Dial knob is rotated while scan-
ning is in progress, the scanning will continue up
6. Turn the Main Tuning Dial knob slightly (to activate or down in frequency according to the direction of
memory tuning). Tuning and scanning are now lim- the Dial Knob rotation. (in other words, if the dial
ited to the range within the P-1L/P-1U limits until is rotated to the left when scanning toward a higher
the V/M button is pressed again to return to memory frequency, the direction of the scan will reverse.)
channel or VFO operation.  If the microphone PTT button is pressed during
7. Press and hold in the microphone UP or DWN but- scanning, the scanner will halt at once. Pressing the
ton for one second, or press the F(M-LIST) button PTT button during scanning will not cause transmis-
followed by [SCAN] to start scanning in the speci- sion.
fied direction.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 115

Using the GPS Function
Connecting a YAESU FT1XD/FT1XD, FTM-400XD/FTM-400D or a commercially available GPS receiver/antenna to
the FT-991A will permit the transceiver to constantly receive and display the station location information.
By utilizing the GPS location information, you can register stations with which you frequently communicate and use the
GM function to confirm whether they are within communication range.

What is GPS? Positioning Using GPS

GPS or Global Positioning System is a satellite location 1. Press and hold in the front panel ON/OFF switch to
system that is used to determine the current position on turn the transceiver on.
earth. It is a military system developed by the US De- The satellite search will begin and the “ ” icon will
partment of Defense with approximately 30 GPS satel- be displayed at the top right of the screen.
lites orbiting the earth at an altitude of about 20,000 km,
When signals from three or more satellites in space are
received, the current position information (longitude,
latitude, altitude etc.) may be determined within an ac- Advice:
curacy of several meters. The accurate time can also be  It may take several minutes to acquire the satel-
received from the atomic clock built into the GPS satel- lites.
lite.  When three or more satellites cannot be acquired,
the icon display will disappear. In this case, posi-
tioning is not possible and the position informa-
tion cannot be used.

About GPS Positioning

Positioning refers to the calculation of one’s own position derived from the satellites orbit information and the
transmission time of the radio waves. Positioning requires that three or more satellites be acquired. When posi-
tioning cannot be carried out properly, move to an open space as far away from buildings as possible and where
there are fewer obstructions.

About the Error

Depending on the surrounding environment of the receiver location, an error of several hundred meters may oc-
cur. Although positioning is possible using only three satellites, depending on the positioning conditions, the po-
sitioning accuracy may become worse, or may no longer be possible under the following conditions:
 Between high rise buildings, narrow roads between buildings, indoors and under the shade of buildings, be-
low high voltage lines and underneath overhead structures, between trees and shrubs such as in forests and
woods, inside tunnels and underground, when used behind a solar-energy reflecting glass, locations where a
strong magnetic field occurs

When not Using the Radio for a Long Period of Time

When using the GPS function for the first time after purchasing the FT-991A transceiver, and when turning it on
after It has not been used for a long period time, positioning may take several minutes in order to search for the
satellites. Also, when using the device again several hours after switching off the power, positioning may take
several minutes in order to search for the satellites.

Page 116 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Using the GPS Function
Positioning Using GPS
Positioning Using an External GPS Device
A YAESU FT1XD/FT1D, FTM-400XD/FTM-400D or a commercially available GPS receiver/antenna may be con-
nected to the GPS/CAT jack on the rear panel.
The GPS/CAT jack connector is illustrated below.
Connecting to the FT1XD/FT1D
GPS/CAT Jack

FT1XD/FT1D (CT-169 Option)

 
 TXD (Serial data output) (FT1XD/FT1D  FT-991A)
 RXD (Serial data input) (FT1XD/FT1D  FT-991A)
 GND

Connecting to the FTM-400XD/FTM-400D

GPS/CAT Jack

FTM-400XD/ (CT-165 Option)

FTM-400D  
 TXD (Serial data output) (FTM-400XD/FTM-400D  FT-991A)
 RXD (Serial data input)(FTM-400XD/FTM-400D  FT-991A)
 GND
GPS/CAT Jack


FTM-400XD/ (CT-167 Option) 
FTM-400D  
 GND (Heavy black line)  TXD (Serial data output)
 TXD (Blue) (FTM-400XD/FTM-400D  FT-991A)
 RXD (Gray)  RXD (Serial data input)
(FTM-400XD/FTM-400D  FT-991A)
 GND

1. Press the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn the

transceiver off.
2. Plug the connector of the external device into the
GPS/CAT jack on the rear panel.
3. Press and hold in the front panel ON/OFF switch to
turn the transceiver on.
4. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu
mode. GPS/CAT Jack

5. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “028 ON/OFF Switch MENU(SETUP) Button
GPS/232C SELECT”.
6. Touch [ SELECT] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to set this Menu item to “GPS1” or
“GPS2” (the default setting is “GPS1”).
GPS1: Enables connection to an external GPS de-
vice.
GPS2: Enables connection to an external GPS de-
vice, and displays the location information in MULTI Knob
real time.
7. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new setting. Advice:
8. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]  When connecting to an external GPS device, refer to
on the LCD to exit to normal operation. the operating manual of the connected device as well.
When the external device acquires three or more  When using an external GPS device, separate the
satellites, the “ ” icon will be displayed on the top FT-991A transceiver away from the external GPS
right of the screen. device to reduce the possibility of RF interference.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 117

Using the GPS Function
Displaying the Position Information
Displaying the Current Station Position Information
When Menu Item “028 GPS/232C SELECT” is set to “GPS1”
1. Press and hold the MENU(SETUP) button. MENU(SETUP) Button
2. Touch [LAT/LON] on the LCD.
3. Touch [GPS] on the LCD.

The latitude and longitude of this station will be dis-

played.
When Menu Item “028 GPS/232C SELECT” is set to “GPS2”
1. Press and hold the MENU(SETUP) button.
2. Touch [LAT/LON] on the LCD.
The latitude and longitude of this station will be dis-
played in real-time.

Entering the Location Information Manually

1. Press and hold the MENU(SETUP) button. 5. Touch [LON] on the LCD.
2. Touch [LAT/LON] on the LCD.
3. Touch [LAT] on the LCD.

6. Enter the longitude, then touch [ENT] followed

by [BACK].
4. Enter the latitude, then touch [ENT] followed by
[BACK].

7. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to exit to nor-

mal operation.
Advice:
The manually registered location information can be
erased by touching and holding [LAT] / [LON] on
the LCD for one second.

Page 118 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Using the GM / WIRES-X Function
What is the GM Function?
The GM (group monitor) function monitors the set frequency to find if there are any stations operating with the GM
function within communication range.
The FT-991A can then display the position and distance and other information for each member call sign on the screen.
Besides identifying GM stations that are within the sphere of communications, the GM function is also a convenient
method to instantly note the relative positions of all the members.

DG-ID Information

In range (Blue)
Direction
Distance
Out of range (Gray)

An explanation of the two methods of starting the GM operation is given on the following pages.
Refer to the separate Operating Manual GM Edition for additional details on using the GM Functions (download the
manual from our YAESU website).

Basic Methods to Use the GM Function

Displaying all the Stations where the GM Function is in Operation
1. Press the [MODE] button, then touch [C4FM].
Advice:
6 :  4:  & ) +&  
The GM function does not work in the analog FM mode. , *      , 3     
2. Set the desired operating frequency.
3. Press the F(M-LIST) button, then touch [GM] on the LCD.

4. Touch [BACK] on the LCD. The GM function will

be turned off and the display will return to the previ-
ous screen.

Up to 24 stations operating with the GM function

within the sphere of communications will be listed
on the TFT display.
Advice:
 Stations within the sphere of communications are
displayed in blue.
 Stations outside the sphere of communications
are displayed in grey.

What is the WIRES-X Function?

The WIRES-X is a system that connects to other users via the Internet. This function enables users to communicate with
other users regardless of the distance.
For details, refer to the separate WIRES-X Instruction Manual which is available on the Yaesu website.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 119

RTTY (Radio Teletype) Operation
Example of Connecting RTTY Communications Device
Connecting to the TU (Terminal Unit)
Connect the RTTY communications TU (Terminal Unit) to the rear panel RTTY/DATA terminal. Be sure to read the in-
struction manual of the TU device before connecting it.

Advice:
Adjust the RTTY data output level using Menu item
“099 RTTY OUT LEVEL”.

TU

RTTY/DATA JACK
DATA IN (Pin 1)
GND (Pin 2)
PTT (Pin 3)
SHIFT (Pin 4)
DATA OUT (Pin 5)
SHIFT
RTYO
DAKY

SQL (Pin 6)
GND

To USB port
Commercially available
USB cable

Page 120 FT-991 Operating Manual

 RTTY (Radio Teletype) Operation
Example of Connecting RTTY Communications Device
Connecting to your Computer 3. Press the MENU ( SETUP) button. The Menu list
Note: will appear in the display. Rotate the MULTI knob
Install the RTTY application software and driver on to select Menu item “060 PC KEYING”. Touch [SE-
your computer in advance. LECT] on the LCD, then rotate the MULTI knob
 RTTY communication application (YAESU does not to set this Menu item to “RTS” or “DTR”. Press the
provide technical support for the use or operation of MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK] on the
the application.) LCD to exit to normal operation.
 Virtual COM port driver (Visit the Yaesu website
http://www.yaesu.com/ to download the designated
driver and Installation Manual.)
1. Use a commercially available USB cable to connect
the USB jack on the rear panel of the FT-991A and   %9 (4 ' 3 &+ 5 2.#; 2+6%* 1((5'
the computer.    2% -'; + 0 ) 1((
   3 5- &' . # ; 6+/'  OUGE
2. Press the MODE button, and then touch the corre-
sponding key on the LCD to select the RTTY-LSB
operating mode. The “R-L” icon appears in the dis-
play. “RTS” and “DTR” will be set as shown below.
RTTY-PTT RTTY-SHIFT
Menu item RTS RTS DTR
“060 PC KEYING” DTR DTR RTS

RTTY-PTT and RTTY-SHIFT operations can be set

from the Standard-COM port of the virtual COM
port.
On the computer, open Device Manager from the
Control Panel to check the COM port number and
set each item of the RTTY communication applica-
tion.
4. From the computer Control Panel, open the Sound
setting window to set “USB Audio CODEC” as the
recording device.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 121

DATA (PSK) Operation
Example of Data Communications Device
Use commercial or free computer software for PSK data communications. See the illustration below for connecting the
FT-991A transceiver to a computer.
Be sure to read the instruction manual of the interface device to be connected to the radio and computer.

To LINE IN/MIC IN,

LINE OUT/MIC OUT,
RTTY/DATA JACK COM port, etc.
DATA IN (Pin 1)
GND (Pin 2)
PTT (Pin 3)
SHIFT (Pin 4)
DATA OUT (Pin 5)
RTYO
DAKY

SQL (Pin 6)

Interface de-
vice commer-
cially available

To USB port
Commercially available
USB cable

Advice:
The FT-991A allows for PSK, Olivia, Contestia, etc. digital mode to be sent by the Data method or SSB. The conven-
tional method is to use USB, except RTTY, however the Data method allows for more accurate carrier frequency con-
trol, which is helpful in a Contest or DX environment.
DATA-AFSK the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK] on the
(PSK, OLIVIA, CONTESTIA, RTTY etc.) LCD to exit to normal operation.
FT-991A Settings Note:
1. Press the MODE button, and then touch the corre- All other SSB and DATA settings remain at their de-
sponding key on the LCD to select the USB operat- fault.
ing mode. The “USB” icon appears in the display. Connect a USB Cable from the FT-991A USB
Advice: port and your computer
USB is the conventional mode for AFSK transmis- Advice:
sion on all bands, however some users may be using Before connecting the USB cable you must down load
LSB. the SCU-17 Drivers. The Drivers can be found on the
2. Press the F(M-LIST) button to display the function FT-991A FILES page at the Yaesu Web page, www.
list. yaesu.com. Once the Drivers have been installed con-
3. Touch [MONI] on the LCD. The Monitor function nect the USB cable to the computer and then to the ra-
will be set to “ON”. The MULTI knob will function dio. At your computer’s Device Manager you will find
as the MONITOR adjustment knob. a Standard Driver and Enhanced Driver installed.
4. Press the MENU (SETUP) button. The Menu list
Computer Settings
will appear in the display.
Soundcard
5. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “108
At your Computer Control Panel Sound set your
SSB PTT SELECT”. Touch [SELECT] on the LCD,
Speaker Audio default to USB AUDIO CODEC.
then rotate the MULTI knob to set this Menu item to
“RTS”. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD. COM PORT
6. Rotate the MULTI knob to select Menu item “109 Check your Com Port assignments at your Computer’s
SSB PORT SELECT”. Touch [ SELECT ] on the Device Manager to be sure you have the Enhanced
LCD, then rotate the MULTI knob to set this Menu and Standard Drivers. Make a note of the Com Port
item to “USB”. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD. Press numbers assigned.

Page 122 FT-991 Operating Manual

 DATA (PSK) Operation
Example of Data Communications Device
Software Settings Connect a USB Cable from the FT-991A USB
Note: port and your computer
There are many good Data Mode Operating Software Advice:
programs available on the internet. Each of these pro- Before connecting the USB cable you must down load
grams will have their own Setup instructions, therefore the SCU-17 Drivers. The Drivers can be found on the
to assist you, the following, while general in nature is FT-991A FILES page at the Yaesu Web page, www.
common to most software setup. yaesu.com. Once the Drivers have been installed con-
nect the USB cable to the computer and then to the ra-
COM PORT Settings
dio. At your computer’s Device Manager you will find
To start set the Com Port setting to the Enhanced
a Standard Driver and Enhanced Driver installed.
Driver. If there is a problem switch to the Standard
Driver. Computer Settings
PTT Settings Soundcard
Set the PTT to RTS on DTR off. At your Computer Control Panel Sound set your
Speaker Audio default to USB AUDIO CODEC.
SOUNDCARD
a. At the software Soundcard setting, set to USB CO- COM PORT
DEC AUDIO Check your Com Port assignments at your Computer’s
b. At the software Soundcard Volume setting increase Device Manager to be sure you have the Enhanced
the volume to about 70% to start. and Standard Drivers. Make a note of the Com Port
Advice: numbers assigned.
If the soundcard volume setting is to low the radio
will not switch to Transmit. Software Settings
Note:
DATA MODE There are many good Data Mode Operating Software
programs available on the internet. Each of these pro-
(PSK, OLIVIA, CONTESTIA, RTTY etc.)
grams will have their own Setup instructions, therefore
FT-991A Settings
to assist you, the following, while general in nature is
1. Press the MODE button, and then touch the corre-
common to most software setup.
sponding key on the LCD to select the DATA-USB
operating mode. The “D-U” icon appears in the dis- COM PORT Settings
play. To start set the Com Port setting to the Enhanced
Advice: Driver. If there is a problem switch to the Standard
USB is the conventional mode for Digital ( not Driver.
RTTY) transmission on all bands, however some us- PTT Settings
ers may be using LSB. Set the PTT to RTS on DTR off.
2. Press the MENU (SETUP) button. The Menu list SOUNDCARD
will appear in the display. a. At the software Soundcard setting, set to USB CO-
3. Rotate the MULTI knob to find Menu item “062”, DEC AUDIO
“063”, “070”, “071” or “072”. b. At the software Soundcard Volume setting increase
4. Touch [SELECT] on the LCD. the volume to about 70% to start.
5. Rotate the MULTI knob to set these Menu item as Advice:
shown below. If the soundcard volume setting is to low the radio
Menu Function Setting will not switch to Transmit.
062 DATA MODE PSK
Adjust for desired
063 PSK TONE
center frequency.
070 DATA IN SELECT MIC
071 DATA PTT SELECT RTS
072 DATA PORT SELECT USB
6. Touch [ ENTER ] on the LCD, then press the
MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK] on the
LCD to exit to normal operation.
Note:
All other SSB and DATA settings remain at their de-
fault.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 123

Menu Mode
The Menu system of the FT-991A provides extensive customization capability; the transceiver may be setup to comple-
ment personal operating preferences. Menu items are grouped by general utilization categories, and are numbered from
“001 AGC FAST DELAY” to “153 WIRES DG-ID”.

Using the Menu MENU(SETUP) Button

1. Press the MENU ( SETUP ) button to engage the

Menu mode.
The display will show the Menu Number and the
Menu Item.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the Menu item to
be modified.
3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to change the current setting of the se- MULTI Knob
lected Menu item.
Advice: 4. When the adjustment or setting is completed, touch
Touch [BACK] on the LCD to cancel the setting. [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new setting, then
press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]
on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

   0$ 4' , ' %6+ 1 0 F$

   0$ .'8 ' . 
   $''2 . ' 8 ' . 

   0$ 4' , ' %6+ 1 0 F$

   0$ .'8 ' . 
   $''2 . ' 8 ' . 

Menu Item

   #)% ( # 5 6 & ' .#;  O U G E

Menu Number    #)% / + & & ' .#;  O U G E Setting value
   #)% 5 . 1 9 & ' .#;  O U G E

Menu Resetting

Use this procedure to restore the Menu settings to ON/OFF Switch MENU(SETUP) Button

their factory defaults, without affecting the pro-

grammed frequency memories.
1. Press the front panel ON/OFF switch to turn the
transceiver off.
2. While holding the MENU(SETUP) button in,
press and hold in the front panel ON/OFF switch
to turn the transceiver on. Once the transceiver
comes on, release the buttons.

Page 124 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Menu Mode
No. Menu Function Available Settings Default Value
001 AGC FAST DELAY 20 - 4000 (20msec/step) 300msec
002 AGC MID DELAY 20 - 4000 (20msec/step) 700msec
003 AGC SLOW DELAY 20 - 4000 (20msec/step) 3000msec
004 HOME FUNCTION SCOPE/FUNCTION SCOPE
005 MY CALL INDICATION OFF - 5sec 1sec
BLUE/GRAY/GREEN/ORANGE/PURPLE/RED/SKY
006 DISPLAY COLOR BLUE
BLUE
007 DIMMER LED 1/2 2
008 DIMMER TFT 0 - 15 8
009 BAR MTR PEAK HOLD OFF/0.5/1.0/2.0 (sec) OFF
010 DVS RX OUT LEVEL 0 - 100 50
011 DVS TX OUT LEVEL 0 - 100 50
012 KEYER TYPE OFF/BUG/ELEKEY-A/ELEKEY-B/ELEKEY-Y/ACS ELEKEY-B
013 KEYER DOT/DASH NOR/REV NOR
014 CW WEIGHT 2.5 - 4.5 3.0
015 BEACON INTERVAL OFF/1 - 240sec/270 - 690sec OFF
016 NUMBER STYLE 1290/AUNO/AUNT/A2NO/A2NT/12NO/12NT 1290
017 CONTEST NUMBER 0 - 9999 1
018 CW MEMORY 1 TEXT/MESSAGE TEXT
019 CW MEMORY 2 TEXT/MESSAGE TEXT
020 CW MEMORY 3 TEXT/MESSAGE TEXT
021 CW MEMORY 4 TEXT/MESSAGE TEXT
022 CW MEMORY 5 TEXT/MESSAGE TEXT
023 NB WIDTH 1/3/10msec 3msec
024 NB REJECTION 10/30/50dB 30dB
025 NB LEVEL 0 - 10 5
026 BEEP LEVEL 0 - 100 50
027 TIME ZONE -12:00 - 0:00 - +14:00 0:00
028 GPS/232C SELECT GPS1/GPS2/RS232C GPS1
029 232C RATE 4800/9600/19200/38400 (bps) 4800bps
030 232C TOT 10/100/1000/3000 (msec) 10msec
031 CAT RATE 4800/9600/19200/38400 (bps) 4800bps
032 CAT TOT 10/100/1000/3000 (msec) 10msec
033 CAT RTS ENABLE/DISABLE ENABLE
034 MEM GROUP ENABLE/DISABLE DISABLE
035 QUICK SPLIT FREQ -20 - 20kHz 5kHz
036 TX TOT OFF/1 - 30 (min) OFF (10ø)
037 MIC SCAN ENABLE/DISABLE ENABLE
038 MIC SCAN RESUME PAUSE/TIME TIME
039 REF FREQ ADJ -25 - 0 - 25 0
040 CLAR MODE SELECT RX/TX/TRX RX
041 AM LCUT FREQ OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz (50Hz/step) OFF
042 AM LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 6dB/oct
043 AM HCUT FREQ 700Hz - 4000Hz (50Hz/step) / OFF OFF
044 AM HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 6dB/oct
045 AM MIC SELECT MIC/REAR MIC
046 AM OUT LEVEL 0 - 100 50
047 AM PTT SELECT DAKY/RTS/DTR DAKY
048 AM PORT SELECT DATA/USB DATA
049 AM DATA GAIN 0 - 100 50
050 CW LCUT FREQ OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz(50Hz/step) 250Hz
051 CW LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 18dB/oct
052 CW HCUT FREQ 700Hz - 4000Hz(50Hz/step) / OFF 1200Hz
ø: European Version.
FT-991 Operating Manual Page 125
Menu Mode
No. Menu Function Available Settings Default Value
053 CW HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 18dB/oct
054 CW OUT LEVEL 0 - 100 50
055 CW AUTO MODE OFF/50M/ON OFF
056 CW BK-IN TYPE SEMI/FULL SEMI
057 CW BK-IN DELAY 30 - 3000 (msec) 200msec
058 CW WAVE SHAPE 2/4 (msec) 4msec
059 CW FREQ DISPLAY DIRECT FREQ/PITCH OFFSE PITCH OFFSE
060 PC KEYING OFF/DAKY/RTS/DTR OFF
061 QSK DELAY TIME 15/20/25/30(msec) 15msec
062 DATA MODE PSK/OTHERS PSK
063 PSK TONE 1000/1500/2000(Hz) 1000Hz
064 OTHER DISP (SSB) -3000 - 0 - 3000(10Hz/step) 0Hz
065 OTHER SHIFT (SSB) -3000 - 0 - 3000(10Hz/step) 0Hz
066 DATA LCUT FREQ OFF/100 - 1000(Hz)(50Hz/step) 300Hz
067 DATA LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 18dB/oct
068 DATA HCUT FREQ 700Hz - 4000Hz(50Hz/step)/OFF 3000Hz
069 DATA HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oc 18dB/oct
070 DATA IN SELECT REAR/MIC REAR
071 DATA PTT SELECT DAKY/RTS/DTR DAKY
072 DATA PORT SELECT DATA/USB DATA
073 DATA OUT LEVEL 0 - 100 50
074 FM MIC SELECT MIC/REAR MIC
075 FM OUT LEVEL 0 - 100 50
076 FM PKT PTT SELECT DAKY/RTS/DTR DAKY
077 FM PKT PORT SELECT DATA/USB DATA
078 FM PKT TX GAIN 0 - 100 50
079 FM PKT MODE 1200/9600 1200
080 RPT SHIFT 28MHz 0 - 1000kHz (10kHz/step) 100kHz
081 RPT SHIFT 50MHz 0 - 4000kHz (10kHz/step) 1000kHz
082 RPT SHIFT 144MHz 0 - 4000kHz (10kHz/step) 600kHz
083 RPT SHIFT 430MHz 0 - 10000kHz (10kHz/step) 5000kHz
084 ARS 144MHz OFF/ON ON
085 ARS 430MHz OFF/ON ON
086 DCS POLARITY Tn-Rn/Tn-Riv/Tiv-Rn/Tin-Riv Tn-Rn
Displays the unique transceiver ID
087 RADIO ID (The ID is unique to each transceiver and cannot be *****
changed.)
088 GM DISPLY DISTANCE/STRENGTH DISTANCE
089 DISTANCE km/mile mile
090 AMS TX MODE AUTO/MANUAL/DN/VW/ANALOG AUTO
091 STANDBY BEEP ON/OFF ON
092 RTTY LCUT FREQ OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz (50Hz/step) 300Hz
093 RTTY LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 18dB/oct
094 RTTY HCUT FREQ 700Hz - 4000Hz (50Hz/step) / OFF 3000Hz
095 RTTY HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 18dB/oct
096 RTTY SHIFT PORT SHIFT/DTR/RTS SHIFT
097 RTTY POLARITY-RX NOR/REV NOR
098 RTTY POLARITY-TX NOR/REV NOR
099 RTTY OUT LEVEL 0 - 100 50
100 RTTY SHIFT FREQ 170/200/425/850 (Hz) 170Hz
101 RTTY MARK FREQ 1275/2125 (Hz) 2125Hz
102 SSB LCUT FREQ OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz (50Hz/step) 100Hz
103 SSB LCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 6dB/oct

Page 126 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Menu Mode
No. Menu Function Available Settings Default Value
104 SSB HCUT FREQ 700Hz - 4000Hz 50Hz/step) / OFF
( 3000Hz
105 SSB HCUT SLOPE 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct 6dB/oct
106 SSB MIC SELECT MIC/REAR MIC
107 SSB OUT LEVEL 0 - 100 50
108 SSB PTT SELECT DAKY/RTS/DTR DAKY
109 SSB PORT SELECT DATA/USB DATA
110 SSB TX BPF 100-3000/100-2900/200-2800/300-2700/400-2600 300-2700
111 APF WIDTH NARROW/MEDIUM/WIDE MEDIUM
112 CONTOUR LEVEL -40 - 0 - 20 -15
113 CONTOUR WIDTH 1 - 11 10
114 IF NOTCH WIDTH NARROW/WIDE WIDE
115 SCP DISPLAY MODE SPECTRUM/WATER FALL SPECTRUM
116 SCP SPAN FREQ 50/100/200/500/1000 (kHz) 100kHz
117 SPECTRUM COLOR BLUE/GRAY/GREEN/ORANGE/PURPLE/RED/SKY BLUE BLUE
BLUE/GRAY/GREEN/ORANGE/PURPLE/RED/
118 WATER FALL COLOR MULTI
SKY BLUE/MULTI
119 PRMTRC EQ1 FREQ OFF/100 - 700 (100/step) OFF
120 PRMTRC EQ1 LEVEL -20 - 0 - 10 5
121 PRMTRC EQ1 BWTH 1 - 10 10
122 PRMTRC EQ2 FREQ OFF/700 - 1500 (100/step) OFF
123 PRMTRC EQ2 LEVEL -20 - 0 - 10 5
124 PRMTRC EQ2 BWTH 1 - 10 10
125 PRMTRC EQ3 FREQ OFF/1500 - 3200 (100/step) OFF
126 PRMTRC EQ3 LEVEL -20 - 0 - 10 5
127 PRMTRC EQ3 BWTH 1 - 10 10
128 P-PRMTRC EQ1 FREQ OFF/100 - 700 (100/step) 200
129 P-PRMTRC EQ1 LEVEL -20 - 0 - 10 0
130 P-PRMTRC EQ1 BWTH 1 - 10 2
131 P-PRMTRC EQ2 FREQ OFF/700 - 1500 (100/step) 800
132 P-PRMTRC EQ2 LEVEL -20 - 0 - 10 0
133 P-PRMTRC EQ2 BWTH 1 - 10 1
134 P-PRMTRC EQ3 FREQ OFF/1500 - 3200 (100/step) 2100
135 P-PRMTRC EQ3 LEVEL -20 - 0 - 10 0
136 P-PRMTRC EQ3 BWTH 1 - 10 1
137 HF TX MAX POWER 5 - 100 100
138 50M TX MAX POWER 5 - 100 100
139 144M TX MAX POWER 5 - 50 50
140 430M TX MAX POWER 5 - 50 50
141 TUNER SELECT OFF/INTERNAL/EXTERNAL/ATAS/LAMP INTERNAL
142 VOX SELECT MIC/DATA MIC
143 VOX GAIN 0 - 100 50
144 VOX DELAY 30 - 3000 (msec) 500msec
145 ANTI VOX GAIN 0 - 100 50
146 DATA VOX GAIN 0 - 100 50
147 DATA VOX DELAY 30 - 3000 (msec) 100msec
148 ANTI DVOX GAIN 0 - 100 0
149 EMERGENCY FREQ TX DISABLE/ENABLE DISABLE
Select the operating frequency setting method when
150 RPT/WIRES FREQ MANUAL
connecting to a local node
145.375.00
151 PRESET FREQUENCY Presets frequencies
146.550.00 (USA )
152 SEARCH SETUP Sets the criteria to sort the FAVORITE list HISTORY
153 WIRES DG-ID AUTO/01 - 99 AUTO

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 127

Menu Mode
001 AGC FAST DELAY 007 DIMMER LED
Function: Sets the AGC-FAST DELAY voltage decay Function: Sets the key LED brightness level.
characteristics. Available Values: 1 / 2
Available Values: 20 - 4000msec (20msec/step) Default Setting: 2
Default Setting: 300msec Description: Sets the brightness level of the LED indi-
Description: Sets the AGC voltage decay characteristics cator located above the Main Tuning Dial
in 20 msec steps after the input signal level knob. The effect of the changes may be
becomes lower than the AGC detection observed as the brightness level is adjusted.
level and the HOLD time is over. “1” is the darkest.

002 AGC MID DELAY 008 DIMMER TFT

Function: Sets the AGC-MID DELAY voltage decay Function: Sets the TFT display brightness level.
characteristics. Available Values: 0 - 15
Available Values: 20 - 4000msec (20msec/step) Default Setting: 8
Default Setting: 700msec Description: Sets the brightness level of the TFT display.
Description: Sets the AGC voltage decay characteristics The effect of the changes may be observed
in 20 msec steps after the input signal level as the brightness level is adjusted. The
becomes lower than the AGC detection higher the setting, the brighter the illumina-
level and the HOLD time is over. tion becomes.

003 AGC SLOW DELAY 009 BAR MTR PEAK HOLD

Function: Sets the AGC-SLOW DELAY voltage decay Function: Sets the bar meter peak hold.
characteristics. Available Values: OFF/0.5/1.0/2.0 (sec)
Available Values: 20 - 4000msec (20msec/step) Default Setting: OFF
Default Setting: 3000msec Description: Sets the time length the maximum value
Description: Sets the AGC voltage decay characteristics reading is shown on the meter (peak hold).
in 20 msec steps after the input signal level OFF: Disables the peak hold function.
becomes lower than the AGC detection 0.5/1.0/2.0: Holds the maximum value for the
level and the HOLD time is over. time length that is set.

004 HOME FUNCTION 010 DVS RX OUT LEVEL

Function: Selects the information to be displayed on the Function: Sets the voice memory monitoring level.
HOME screen. Available Values: 0 - 100
Available Values: SCOPE/FUNCTION Default: 50
Default Setting: SCOPE Description: You can adjust the voice memory monitor-
Description: Selects the information to be displayed on ing level. The higher the setting, the higher
the HOME screen (main screen). the output level becomes.
SCOPE: Displays the scope screen.
FUNCTION: Displays the function key
011 DVS TX OUT LEVEL
Function: Sets the microphone output level for the voice
screen.
memory.
005 MY CALL INDICATION Available Values: 0 - 100
Function: Sets the display time duration for MY CALL. Default: 50
Available Values: OFF - 5sec Description: The microphone output level may be ad-
Default Setting: 1sec justed to the operators own voice and pref-
Description: Sets the display time duration for a message erence. For example, the output level may
such as the call sign set from MY CALL be set differently between the microphone
when turning on the power. and the voice memory. The higher the set-
ting, the higher the output level becomes.
006 DISPLAY COLOR
Function: Sets the background color of the VFO-A fre-
quency display field.
Available Values: BLUE/GRAY/GREEN/ORANGE/
PURPLE/RED/SKY BLUE
Default Setting: BLUE
Description: Sets the background color of the VFO-
A frequency display field. The color may
be previewed before the selection is con-
firmed.

Page 128 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Menu Mode
012 KEYER TYPE 015 BEACON INTERVAL
Function: Switches the keyer operation. Function: Sets the interval time between repeats of the
Available Values: OFF/BUG/ELEKEY-A/ELEKEY-B/ beacon message.
ELEKEY-Y/ACS Available Values: OFF/1 - 240sec ( 1sec/step ) /270 -
Default Setting: ELEKEY-B 690sec (30sec/step)
Description: Switches the keyer operation. Default Setting: OFF
OFF: Description: Sets the interval time between repeats of
Disables the keyer function. the beacon message.
BUG: A message (message memory/text memory)
Functions as a “BUG key”. Only the “Dot” side registered in the contest memory keyer,
is automatically generated (the “Dash” side is may be transmitted as a CW Beacon mes-
generated manually). sage.
ELEKEY-A: If you do not want the message to repeat in
A code element (“Dot” or “Dash” side) is trans- a beacon mode, set this item to “OFF”.
mitted upon pressing both sides of the paddle.
ELEKEY-B:
016 NUMBER STYLE
Function: Selects the contest number “Cut” format for
Pressing both sides of the paddle transmits the
an imbedded contest number.
currently generated “Dash” side followed by
Available Values: 1290/AUNO/AUNT/A2NO/A2NT/
“Dot” side (or reverse order).
12NO/12NT
ELEKEY-Y:
Default Setting: 1290
Pressing both sides of the paddle transmits the
Description: Abbreviates numbers “One”, “Two”, “Nine”
currently generated “Dash” side followed by
and “Zero” using Morse code when sending
“Dot” side (or reverse order).
the contest number.
While transmitting the “Dash” side, the first
1290: Does not abbreviate the contest number.
transmitted “Dot” side will not be stored.
AUNO: Abbreviates to “A” for “One”, “U” for
ACS:
“Two”, “N” for “Nine”, and “O” for
Functions as the “Keyer with automatic spac-
“Zero”.
ing control feature” which sets spacing between
AUNT: Abbreviates to “A” for “One”, “U” for
characters precisely to be the same length as a
“Two”, “N” for “Nine”, and “T” for
dash (three dots in length).
“Zero”.
013 KEYER DOT/DASH A2NO: Abbreviates to “A” for “One”, “N” for
Function: Reverses the connections of the CW paddle “Nine”, and “O” for “Zero”. Does not ab-
front panel key jack breviate number “Two”.
Available Values: NOR/REV A2NT: Abbreviates to “A” for “One”, “N” for
Default Setting: NOR “Nine”, and “T” for “Zero”. Does not ab-
Description: Reverses the connections of the CW paddle. breviate number “Two”.
NOR: Press the right side of the paddle to transmit 12NO: Abbreviates to “N” for “Nine”, and “O”
the “Dot” signal and press the left side of for “Zero”. Does not abbreviate numbers
the paddle to transmit the “Dash” signal. “One” and “Two”.
REV: Press the left side of the paddle to transmit 12NT: Abbreviates to “N” for “Nine”, and “T”
the “Dash” signal and press the right side of for “Zero”. Does not abbreviate numbers
the paddle to transmit the “Dot” signal. “One” and “Two”.

014 CW WEIGHT 017 CONTEST NUMBER

Function: Adjusts the keyer CW weight. Function: Enters the contest number using Morse code.
Available Values: 2.5 - 4.5 Available Values: 0 - 9999
Default Setting: 3.0 Default Setting: 1
Description: Sets the “Dot”:“Dash” ratio for the built-in Description: Enters the contest number using Morse
electronic keyer. code (page 86).

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 129

Menu Mode
018 CW MEMORY 1 023 NB WIDTH
Function: Selects the registration method for the contest Function: Sets the duration of the noise blanking pulse to
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 1”. match various types of noise compatible with
Available Values: TEXT/MESSAGE the noise blanker function.
Default Setting: TEXT Available Values: 1msec/3msec/10msec
Description: Selects how to register text to the contest Default Setting: 3msec
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 1”. Description: Reduces long duration noise as well as
TEXT: Use the optional FH-2 or the touch pulse noise by changing the setting.
panel to enter text (page 89).
MESSAGE: Use the keyer to register text to the
024 NB REJECTION
Function: Selects the level of noise attenuation.
contest memory keyer (page 86).
Available Values: 10dB/30dB/50dB
019 CW MEMORY 2 Default Setting: 30dB
Function: Selects the registration method for the contest
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 2”.
025 NB LEVEL
Function: Sets the noise blanker level.
Available Values: TEXT/MESSAGE
Available Values: 0 - 10
Default Setting: TEXT
Default Setting: 5
Description: Selects how to register text to the contest
Description: Sets the noise blanker level to reduce pulse
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 2”.
noise such as noise caused by automotive
TEXT: Use the optional FH-2 or the touch
ignition systems. The higher the setting, the
panel to enter text (page 89).
higher the noise blanker level becomes.
MESSAGE: Use the keyer to register text to the
contest memory keyer (page 86). 026 BEEP LEVEL
Function: Sets the beep level.
020 CW MEMORY 3 Available Values: 0 - 100
Function: Selects the registration method for the contest
Default Setting: 50
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 3”.
Description: Sets the beep sound volume level. The
Available Values: TEXT/MESSAGE
higher the setting, the louder the sound be-
Default Setting: TEXT
comes.
Description: Selects how to register text to the contest
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 3”. 027 TIME ZONE
TEXT: Use the optional FH-2 or the touch Function: Sets the time zone.
panel to enter text (page 89). Available Values: −12:00 - 0:00 - +14:00
MESSAGE: Use the keyer to register text to the Default Setting: 0:00
contest memory keyer (page 86). Description: Sets the time difference with respect to the
UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) in 30
021 CW MEMORY 4 minute increments.
Function: Selects the registration method for the contest
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 4”.
Available Values: TEXT/MESSAGE
Default Setting: TEXT
Description: Selects how to register text to the contest
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 4”.
TEXT: Use the optional FH-2 or the touch
panel to enter text (page 89).
MESSAGE: Use the keyer to register text to the
contest memory keyer (page 86).

022 CW MEMORY 5
Function: Selects the registration method for the contest
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 5”.
Available Values: TEXT/MESSAGE
Default Setting: TEXT
Description: Selects how to register text to the contest
memory keyer “CW MEMORY 5”.
TEXT: Use optional FH-2 or the touch panel
to enter text (page 89).
MESSAGE: Use the keyer to register text to the
contest memory keyer (page 86).

Page 130 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Menu Mode
028 GPS/232C SELECT 035 QUICK SPLIT FREQ
Function: Selects functions of the GPS/CAT jack. Function: Selects the amount of frequency offset when
Available Values: GPS1/GPS2/RS232C the Quick Split feature is enabled.
Default Setting: GPS1 Available Values: −20 - 0 - 20kHz (1kHz/step)
Description: Select the device that is to be connected to Default Setting: 5kHz
the GPS/CAT jack on the rear panel. Description: Sets the amount of frequency offset when
GPS1: Enables connection to an external GPS the Quick Split feature is enabled.
device. Advice: Press and hold the SPLIT button on the front
GPS2: Enables connection to an external GPS panel to activate VFO-B split frequency opera-
device, and displays the location infor- tion, thereby offsetting the transmitter by the
mation in real time. specified frequency.
RS232C: Enables connection for input of CAT Each time the SPLIT button is pressed and
commands. held, the offset frequency is increased by the
setting amount.
029 232C RATE
Function: Sets the baud rate for a GPS/CAT jack com- 036 TX TOT
mand input. Function: Sets the Time-Out Timer countdown time.
Available Values: 4800/9600/19200/38400 bps Available Values: OFF/1 - 30min
Default Setting: 4800 bps Default Setting: OFF (10 min, European Version)
Description: Sets the baud rate for an RS-232C com- Description: When the time-out timer function is ac-
mand input. tive, a beep is emitted when a continuous
transmission nears the set time. About 10
030 232C TOT seconds later, forces the transceiver returns
Function: Sets the Time-Out Timer for an RS-232C
to the receiving mode.
command input.
Available Values: 10/100/1000/3000 (msec) 037 MIC SCAN
Default Setting: 10msec Function: Sets the microphone automatic scanning func-
Description: Sets the Time-Out Timer countdown time tion to ON or OFF.
for a RS-232C command input. Available Values: ENABLE/DISABLE
Default Setting: ENABLE
031 CAT RATE Description: Selects the operation of the UP/DWN but-
Function: Sets the baud rate for a CAT command input.
tons on the microphone.
Available Values: 4800/9600/19200/38400 bps
ENABLE (ON):
Default Setting: 4800 bps
Starts scanning automatically by pressing and
Description: Sets the baud rate for a CAT command input.
holding the UP/DWN button for 1 second or
032 CAT TOT more (Scanning continues even after releasing
Function: Sets the Time-Out Timer for a CAT command the button). To stop scanning, press the UP/DWN
input. button again briefly or press the PTT button to
Available Values: 10/100/1000/3000 (msec) transmit.
Default Setting: 10msec DISABLE (OFF):
Description: Sets the Time-Out Timer countdown time Scans only while pressing and holding the UP/
for a CAT command input. DWN button. To stop scanning, release the but-
ton.
033 CAT RTS
Function: Configures the CAT RTS port setting. 038 MIC SCAN RESUME
Available Values: ENABLE/DISABLE Function: Sets the Scan Resume function.
Default Setting: ENABLE Available Values: PAUSE/TIME
Description: Monitors the computer using the RTS signal. Default Setting: TIME
ENABLE: Monitors the computer status using the Description: Sets the Scan Resume function (in AM/FM
RTS signal. mode).
DISABLE: Disables the monitoring function. PAUSE: During automatic scanning, the scanner
will hold until the signal disappears.
034 MEM GROUP TIME: If the signal does not disappear within
Function: Sets the memory group function.
five seconds, the scanner will resume
Available Values: ENABLE/DISABLE
scanning for the next active channel (fre-
Default Setting: DISABLE
quency). If there is no signal, the scanner
Description: Set this setting to “ENABLE” to divide the
continues scanning automatically.
memory channels into 6 groups.

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Menu Mode
039 REF FREQ ADJ 044 AM HCUT SLOPE
Function: Adjusts the reference oscillator. Function: Sets the slope of the high-frequency cutoff au-
Available Values: −25 - 0 - 25 dio filter in AM mode.
Default Setting: 0 Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
Description: The frequency may be calibrated when Default Setting: 6dB/oct
connecting a frequency counter to the Description: Selects the slope of the high-frequency cut-
transceiver, or when receiving a standard off audio filter in AM mode.
frequency such as WWV or WWVH.
045 AM MIC SELECT
040 CLAR MODE SELECT Function: Selects the microphone input jack for AM
Function: Selects the clarifier operation. mode.
Available Values: RX/TX/TRX Available Values: MIC/REAR
Default Setting: RX Default Setting: MIC
Description: Selects the clarifier operation when the Description: Selects the microphone input jack to be
CLAR button is pressed. used in AM mode.
RX: Functions as the RX clarifier which changes MIC: Audio is input from the MIC jack on the
only the receiver frequency without chang- front panel.
ing transmit frequency. REAR: Disables the microphone circuit on the
TX: Functions as the TX clarifier which changes front panel and inputs audio/data from
only the transmit frequency without chang- the USB jack or RTTY/DATA jack on
ing the receiver frequency. the rear panel.
TRX: Functions as the TRX clarifier which
changes the transmit frequency and the re-
046 AM OUT LEVEL
Function: Sets the level of the receive AM signal output
ceiver frequency simultaneously.
from the RTTY/DATA jack.
041 AM LCUT FREQ Available Values: 0 - 100
Function: Sets the low-frequency cutoff audio filter in Default Setting: 50
AM mode.
Available Values: OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz (50Hz/step)
047 AM PTT SELECT
Function: Sets the PTT control for the AM transmit sig-
Default Setting: OFF
nal.
Description: This is the low-frequency cutoff audio filter
Available Values: DAKY/RTS/DTR
in AM mode.
Default Setting: DAKY
The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz
Description: Selects the PTT control method for the AM
increments between 100 Hz and 1000 Hz.
transmit.
042 AM LCUT SLOPE DAKY: Controls the AM transmit signal from
Function: Sets the slope of the low-frequency cutoff au- the RTTY/DATA jack (pin 3) on the rear
dio filter in AM mode. panel.
Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct DTR: Controls the AM transmit signal from the
Default Setting: 6dB/oct USB virtual COM/DTR ports.
Description: Selects the slope of the low-frequency cut- RTS: Controls the AM transmit signal from the
off audio filter in AM mode. USB virtual COM/RTS ports.

043 AM HCUT FREQ 048 AM PORT SELECT

Function: Sets the high-frequency cutoff audio filter in Function: Selects the input jack of the AM signal.
AM mode. Available Values: DATA/USB
Available Values: OFF/700Hz - 4000Hz (50Hz/step) Default Setting: DATA
Default Setting: OFF Description: Selects the input jack of the AM signal
Description: This is the high-frequency cutoff audio fil- when “045 AM MIC SELECT” is set to
ter in AM mode. “DATA”.
The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz DATA: Inputs from the RTTY/DATA jack on the
increments between 700 Hz and 4000 Hz. rear panel.
USB: Inputs from the USB jack on the rear panel.

049 AM DATA GAIN

Function: Sets the level of the AM signal input when
“045 AM MIC SELECT” is set to “DATA”.
Available Values: 0 - 100
Default Setting: 50

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 Menu Mode
050 CW LCUT FREQ 056 CW BK-IN TYPE
Function: Sets the low-frequency cutoff audio filter in Function: Sets the CW brake-in function.
CW mode. Available Values: SEMI/FULL
Available Values: OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz (50Hz/step) Default Setting: SEMI
Default Setting: 250Hz Description: Selects the CW brake-in function.
Description: This is the low-frequency cutoff audio filter SEMI: A brief delay is provided after the CW
in CW mode. keying operation, before the transceiver
The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz returns to receive mode.
increments between 100 Hz and 1000 Hz. The receiver recovery time may be changed
using MENU “057 CW BK-IN DELAY”.
051 CW LCUT SLOPE FULL: The transceiver immediately returns to re-
Function: Sets the slope of the low-frequency cutoff au-
ceive mode after every CW key-up (QSK
dio filter in CW mode.
mode).
Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
Default Setting: 18dB/oct 057 CW BK-IN DELAY
Description: Selects the slope of the low-frequency cut- Function: Sets the CW delay time.
off audio filter in CW mode. Available Values: 30msec - 3000msec (10msec/step)
Default Setting: 200msec
052 CW HCUT FREQ Description: In semi break-in mode, this setting deter-
Function: Sets the high-frequency cutoff audio filter in
mines the delay time before returning to re-
CW mode.
ceive mode after the CW keying operation.
Available Values: OFF/700Hz - 4000Hz (50Hz/step)
The delay time can be changed in 10 msec
Default Setting: 1200Hz
steps between 30 msec and 3000 msec.
Description: This is the high-frequency cutoff audio fil-
ter in CW mode. 058 CW WAVE SHAPE
The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz Function: Selects the CW carrier wave-form shape (rise/
increments between 700 Hz and 4000 Hz. fall times).
Available Values: 2ms/4ms
053 CW HCUT SLOPE Default Setting: 4ms (msec)
Function: Sets the slope of the high-frequency cutoff au-
Description: Sets the rise and fall times of the keying en-
dio filter in CW mode.
velope in CW mode (transmit waveform).
Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
Default Setting: 18dB/oct 059 CW FREQ DISPLAY
Description: Selects the slope of the high-frequency cut- Function: Sets the PITCH frequency offset.
off audio filter in CW mode. Available Values: DIRECT FREQ/PITCH OFFSET
Default Setting: PITCH OFFSET
054 CW OUT LEVEL Description: Sets the displayed frequency offset when
Function: Sets the level of the CW signal output from
switching the transceiver mode between SSB
the RTTY/DATA jack.
and CW.
Available Values: 0 - 100
DIRECT FREQ:
Default Setting: 50
Displays the same frequency in CW mode as in
055 CW AUTO MODE SSB mode without any offset added.
Function: Enables/disables CW keying while operating PITCH OFFSET:
on SSB. Displays the frequency in CW mode with the
Available Values: OFF/50M (50MHz)/ON pitch offset added. When CW BFO is set to USB,
Default Setting: OFF the displayed frequency will be increased and
Description: when CW BFO is set to LSB, the displayed fre-
OFF: Disables CW keying while operating on quency will be decreased with pitch offset added.
SSB.
50M: Enables CW keying while operating SSB on
50 MHz (but not HF).
ON: Enables CW keying while operating SSB on
all TX bands.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 133

Menu Mode
060 PC KEYING 067 DATA LCUT SLOPE
Function: Sets the RTTY/DATA jack for keying. Function: Sets the slope of the low-frequency cutoff au-
Available Values: OFF/DAKY/RTS/DTR dio filter in DATA mode.
Default Setting: OFF Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
Description: Default Setting: 18dB/oct
OFF: Disables keying from DATA PTT (pin 3) Description: Selects the slope setting of the low-frequen-
of the RTTY/DATA jack. cy cutoff audio filter in DATA mode.
DAKY: Controls the transmit from the RTTY/
DATA jack (pin 3) on the rear panel.
068 DATA HCUT FREQ
Function: Sets the high-frequency cutoff audio filter in
RTS: Controls the transmit from the USB vir-
DATA mode.
tual COM/RTS ports.
Available Values: OFF/700Hz - 4000Hz (50Hz/step)
DTR: Controls the transmit from the USB vir-
Default Setting: 3000Hz
tual COM/DTR ports.
Description: This is the high-frequency cutoff audio fil-
061 QSK DELAY TIME ter in DATA mode.
Function: Sets the time delay before transmitting the The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz
keying signal. increments between 700 Hz and 4000 Hz.
Available Values: 15/20/25/30msec
Default Setting: 15msec
069 DATA HCUT SLOPE
Function: Sets the slope of the high-frequency cutoff au-
Description: The delay time in QSK mode before transmit-
dio filter in DATA mode.
ting the CW signal may be set in 5 msec steps.
Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
062 DATA MODE Default Setting: 18dB/oct
Function: Selects the operating scheme in DATA mode. Description: Selects the slope setting of the high-fre-
Available Values: PSK/OTHERS quency cutoff audio filter in DATA mode.
Default Setting: PSK
Description: Selects the operating scheme ( PSK or
070 DATA IN SELECT
Function: Selects the input jack for DATA mode.
OTHERS) in DATA mode.
Available Values: MIC/REAR
063 PSK TONE Default Setting: REAR
Function: Set the PSK tone. Description: Selects the input jack to be used in DATA
Available Values: 1000/1500/2000Hz mode.
Default Setting: 1000Hz MIC: Inputs signals from the MIC jack on the
Description: Selects the PSK tone frequency. front panel.
REAR: Inputs signals from the USB jack or
064 OTHER DISP (SSB) RTTY/DATA jack on the rear panel.
Function: Sets the displayed frequency offset in DATA
mode. 071 DATA PTT SELECT
Available Values: −3000 - 0 - 3000Hz (10Hz/step) Function: Sets the PTT control during the sending/re-
Default: 0Hz ceiving of data.
Description: Sets the displayed frequency offset in Available Values: DAKY/RTS/DTR
DATA mode. The frequency can be set in Default Setting: DAKY
steps of 10 Hz. Description: Selects the PTT control method during the
sending/receiving of data.
065 OTHER SHIFT (SSB) DAKY: Controls the transmit from the RTTY/
Function: Sets the carrier point in DATA mode.
DATA jack (pin 3) on the rear panel.
Available Values: −3000 - 0 - 3000Hz (10Hz/step)
DTR: Controls the transmit from the USB vir-
Default: 0Hz
tual COM/DTR ports.
Description: Sets the carrier point in DATA mode. The
RTS: Controls the transmit from the USB vir-
frequency can be set in steps of 10 Hz.
tual COM/RTS ports.
066 DATA LCUT FREQ
Function: Sets the low-frequency cutoff audio filter in
DATA mode.
Available Values: OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz (50Hz/step)
Default Setting: 300Hz
Description: This is the low-frequency cutoff audio filter
in DATA mode.
The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz
increments between 100 Hz and 1000 Hz.

Page 134 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Menu Mode
072 DATA PORT SELECT 077 FM PKT PORT SELECT
Function: Selects the input jack of the data signal. Function: Selects the input jack of the FM packet signal.
Available Values: DATA/USB Available Values: DATA/USB
Default Setting: DATA Default Setting: DATA
Description: Selects the input jack of the data signal Description: Selects the input jack of the FM signal
when “070 DATA IN SELECT” is set to when “074 FM MIC SELECT” is set to
“REAR”. “DATA”.
DATA: Inputs the data from the RTTY/DATA jack DATA: Inputs from the RTTY/DATA jack on the
on the rear panel. rear panel.
USB: Inputs the data from the USB jack on the USB: Inputs from the USB jack on the rear pan-
rear panel. el.

073 DATA OUT LEVEL 078 FM PKT TX GAIN

Function: Sets the output level during the sending/re- Function: Sets the transmission gain during the FM
ceiving of data (PSK31, SSTV, etc.). packet operation.
Available Values: 0 - 100 Available Values: 0 - 100
Default Setting: 50 Default Setting: 50
Description: Sets the output level during the sending/
receiving of data (PSK31, SSTV, etc.). The
079 FM PKT MODE
Function: Sets the baud rate (communication speed) dur-
higher the setting, the higher the output
ing the FM packet operation.
level becomes.
Available Values: 1200/9600
074 FM MIC SELECT Default Setting: 1200
Function: Selects the microphone input jack for FM
mode.
080 RPT SHIFT 28MHz
Function: Sets the RPT offset frequency on the 28 MHz
Available Values: MIC/REAR
band.
Default Setting: MIC
Available Values: 0 - 1000kHz (10kHz/step)
Description: Selects the microphone input jack to be
Default Setting: 100kHz
used in FM mode.
Description: Sets the repeater offset frequency on the 28
MIC: Inputs from the MIC jack on the front
MHz band.
panel.
REAR: Disables the microphone circuit on the 081 RPT SHIFT 50MHz
front panel and inputs from the USB Function: Sets the RPT offset frequency on the 50 MHz
jack or RTTY/DATA jack on the rear band.
panel. Available Values: 0 - 4000kHz (10kHz/step)
Default Setting: 1000kHz
075 FM OUT LEVEL Description: Sets the repeater offset frequency on the 50
Function: Sets the level of the FM receiving signal out-
MHz band.
put from the RTTY/DATA jack.
Available Values: 0 - 100 082 RPT SHIFT 144MHz
Default Setting: 50 Function: Sets the RPT offset frequency on the 144 MHz
band.
076 FM PKT PTT SELECT Available Values: 0 - 4000kHz (10kHz/step)
Function: Sets the PTT control for the FM signal.
Default Setting: 600kHz
Available Values: DAKY/RTS/DTR
Description: Sets the repeater offset frequency on the
Default Setting: DAKY
144 MHz band.
Description: Selects the PTT control method for the FM
signal. 083 RPT SHIFT 430MHz
DAKY: Controls the transmit from the RTTY/ Function: Sets the RPT offset frequency on the 430 MHz
DATA jack (pin 3) on the rear panel. band.
DTR: Controls the transmit from the USB vir- Available Values: 0 - 10000kHz (10kHz/step)
tual COM/DTR ports. Default Setting: 5000kHz
RTS: Controls the transmit from the USB vir- Description: Sets the repeater offset frequency on the
tual COM/RTS ports. 430 MHz band.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 135

Menu Mode
084 ARS 144MHz 090 AMS TX MODE
Function: Sets the ARS function on the 144 MHz band. Function: Sets the operation of the AMS function.
Available Values: OFF/ON Available Values: AUTO/MANUAL/DN/VW/ANALOG
Default Setting: ON Default Setting: AUTO
Description: Description: When using the AMS (AUTO) function, the
OFF: Disables the ARS function. transceiver selects one of the three trans-
ON: Enables the ARS function. mission modes automatically according to
the received signal.
085 ARS 430MHz AUTO: Selects one of the transmission modes
Function: Sets the ARS function on the 430 MHz band.
automatically according to the re-
Available Values: OFF/ON
ceived signal.
Default Setting: ON
MANUAL: By briefly pressing the PTT switch,
Description:
the operating mode may be switched
OFF: Disables the ARS function.
between digital and analog mode.
ON: Enables the ARS function.
DN: Transmits in DN mode.
086 DCS POLARITY VW: Transmits in VW mode.
Function: Selects the DCS code polarity. ANALOG: Transmits in FM mode (analog).
Available Values: Tn-Rn/Tn-Riv/Tiv-Rn/Tiv-Riv
Default Setting: Tn-Rn
091 STANDBY BEEP
Function: Sets the Standby Beep function for digital
Description: When using the DCS function, the trans-
communications.
ceiver can transmit/receive the DCS code
Available Values: OFF/ON
with the phase reversed.
Default Setting: ON
Tn-Rn: Transmit (in phase), receive (in phase)
Description: During a digital communication, an audible
Tn-Riv: Transmit ( in phase ) , receive ( reverse
beep sounds to indicate that the contact sta-
phase)
tion has completed a transmission (Standby
Tiv-Rn: Transmit ( reverse phase ) , receive ( in
Beep function).
phase)
Tiv-Riv: Transmit (reverse phase), receive (reverse 092 RTTY LCUT FREQ
phase) Function: Sets the low-frequency cutoff audio filter in
RTTY mode.
087 RADIO ID Available Values: OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz (50Hz/step)
Function: Displays the unique transceiver ID assigned
Default Setting: 300Hz
at the time of shipment (5-digit alphanumeric
Description: This is the low-frequency cutoff audio filter
characters).
in RTTY mode.
Available Values: Cannot be changed.
The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz
Default Setting: Differs depending on the transceiver.
increments between 100 Hz and 1000 Hz.
088 GM DISPLAY
Function: Sorts the group stations to be displayed when
093 RTTY LCUT SLOPE
Function: Sets the slope of the low-frequency cutoff au-
using the GM function.
dio filter in RTTY mode.
Available Values: DISTANCE/STRENGTH
Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
Default Setting: DISTANCE
Default Setting: 18dB/oct
Description:
Description: Selects the slope setting of the low-frequen-
DISTANCE:
cy cutoff audio filter in RTTY mode.
Active group member stations are displayed ac-
cording to their distance from this station, begin- 094 RTTY HCUT FREQ
ning with the closest member station. Function: Sets the high-frequency cutoff audio filter in
STRENGTH: RTTY mode.
Active group member stations are displayed ac- Available Values: OFF/700Hz - 4000Hz (50Hz/step)
cording to their signal strengths, beginning with Default Setting: 3000Hz
the strongest signal first. Description: This is the high-frequency cutoff audio fil-
ter in RTTY mode.
089 DISTANCE The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz
Function: Sets the unit of measure to indicate the dis-
increments between 700 Hz and 4000 Hz.
tance between your station and communica-
tion stations when using the GM function.
Available Values: km/mile
Default Setting: mile

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 Menu Mode
095 RTTY HCUT SLOPE 100 RTTY SHIFT FREQ
Function: Sets the slope of the high-frequency cutoff au- Function: Sets the shift width for RTTY mode.
dio filter in RTTY mode. Available Values: 170/200/425/850 (Hz)
Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct Default Setting: 170Hz
Default Setting: 18dB/oct Description: Sets the shift width for RTTY mode.
Description: Selects the slope setting of the high-fre-
101 RTTY MARK FREQ
quency cutoff audio filter in RTTY mode.
Function: Sets the mark frequency for RTTY mode.
096 RTTY SHIFT PORT Available Values: 1275/2125 (Hz)
Function: Sets the SHIFT input jack for RTTY mode. Default Setting: 2125Hz
Available Values: SHIFT/DTR/RTS Description: Sets the mark frequency for RTTY mode.
Default Setting: SHIFT
102 SSB LCUT FREQ
Description: Selects the SHIFT input jack for RTTY Function: Sets the low-frequency cutoff audio filter in
mode. SSB mode.
SHIFT: Inputs from the RTTY/DATA jack (pin 4) Available Values: OFF/100Hz - 1000Hz (50Hz/step)
on the rear panel. Default Setting: 100Hz
DTR: Controls the signal from the USB virtual Description: This is the low-frequency cutoff audio filter
COM/DTR ports. in SSB mode.
RTS: Controls the signal from the USB virtual The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz
COM/RTS ports. increments between 100 Hz and 1000 Hz.
097 RTTY POLARITY-RX 103 SSB LCUT SLOPE
Function: Sets the shift direction for receiving in RTTY Function: Sets the slope of the low-frequency cutoff au-
mode. dio filter in SSB mode.
Available Values: NOR/REV Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
Default Setting: NOR Default Setting: 6dB/oct
Description: Sets the shift direction for receiving in Description: Selects the slope setting of the low-frequen-
RTTY mode. cy cutoff audio filter in SSB mode.
NOR: The space frequency will be lower than the
mark frequency. 104 SSB HCUT FREQ
Function: Sets the high-frequency cutoff audio filter in
REV: The mark frequency will be lower than the
SSB mode.
space frequency.
Available Values: OFF/700Hz - 4000Hz (50Hz/step)
098 RTTY POLARITY-TX Default Setting: 3000Hz
Function: Sets the shift direction for transmitting in Description: This is the high-frequency cutoff audio fil-
RTTY mode. ter in SSB mode.
Available Values: NOR/REV The cutoff frequency can be set at 50 Hz
Default Setting: NOR increments between 700 Hz and 4000 Hz.
Description: Sets the shift direction for transmitting in
RTTY mode. 105 SSB HCUT SLOPE
Function: Sets the slope of the high-frequency cutoff au-
NOR: The space frequency will be lower than the
mark frequency. dio filter in SSB mode.
REV: The mark frequency will be lower than the Available Values: 6dB/oct / 18dB/oct
space frequency. Default Setting: 6dB/oct
Description: Selects the slope setting of the high-fre-
099 RTTY OUT LEVEL quency cutoff audio filter in SSB mode.
Function: Sets the output level during the sending/re-
ceiving of data in RTTY mode. 106 SSB MIC SELECT
Available Values: 0 - 100 Function: Selects the microphone input jack for SSB
Default Setting: 50 mode.
Description: Sets the data output level during the send- Available Values: MIC/REAR
ing/receiving of data in RTTY mode. The Default Setting: MIC
higher the setting, the higher the output Description: Selects the microphone input jack to be
level becomes. used in SSB mode.
MIC: Inputs from the MIC jack on the front
panel.
REAR: Disables the microphone circuit on the
front panel and inputs from the USB jack
or RTTY/DATA jack on the rear panel.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 137

Menu Mode
107 SSB OUT LEVEL 113 CONTOUR WIDTH
Function: Sets the level of the SSB receiving signal out- Function: Sets the bandwidth (“Q”) of the CONTOUR
put from the RTTY/DATA jack. circuit.
Available Values: 0 - 100 Available Values: 1 - 11
Default Setting: 50 Default Setting: 10
Description: Sets the bandwidth (WIDTH) of the CON-
108 SSB PTT SELECT TOUR circuit.
Function: Sets the PTT transmit control for the SSB sig-
nal. 114 IF NOTCH WIDTH
Available Values: DAKY/RTS/DTR Function: Sets the attenuation bandwidth characteristic
Default Setting: DAKY of the DSP IF notch filter on the VFO-A.
Description: Selects the PTT transmit control method for Available Values: NARROW/WIDE
the SSB signal. Default Setting: WIDE
DAKY: Controls the transmit signal from the Description: Selects the attenuation bandwidth charac-
RTTY/DATA jack ( pin 3 ) on the rear teristic setting of the DSP IF notch filter to
panel. “NARROW” or “WIDE”.
DTR: Controls the transmit signal from the USB
virtual COM/DTR ports.
115 SCP DISPLAY MODE
Function: Sets the scope for either the spectrum or the
RTS: Controls the transmit signal from the USB
waterfall display.
virtual COM/RTS ports.
Available Values: SPECTRUM/WATER FALL
109 SSB PORT SELECT Default Setting: SPECTRUM
Function: Sets the input jack of the SSB signal. Description: Selects the type of display when the scope
Available Values: DATA/USB feature activates.
Default Setting: DATA SPECTRUM: Enables the spectrum display.
Description: Selects the input jack of the SSB signal WATER FALL: Enables the water-
when “106 SSB MIC SELECT” is set to fall display.
“DATA”.
DATA: Inputs from the RTTY/DATA jack on the
116 SCP SPAN FREQ
Function: Sets the bandwidth of the spectrum scope
rear panel.
sweeping.
USB: Inputs from the USB jack on the rear panel.
Available Values: 50/100/200/500/1000 (kHz)
110 SSB TX BPF Default Setting: 100kHz
Function: Sets the frequency characteristics of the DSP Description: Sets the bandwidth (SPAN) of the spectrum
band-pass filter for transmitting in SSB mode. scope.
Available Values: 100-3000/100-2900/200-2800/300-
2700/400-2600
117 SPECTRUM COLOR
Function: Selects the color of the Spectrum Scope dis-
Default Setting: 300-2700Hz
play.
Description: Selects the frequency characteristics setting
Available Values: BLUE/GRAY/GREEN/ORANGE/
of the DSP band-pass filter when transmit-
PURPLE/RED/SKY BLUE
ting in SSB mode.
Default Setting: BLUE
111 APF WIDTH
Function: Sets the bandwidth of the audio peak filter.
118 WATER FALL COLOR
Function: Selects the color of the Water Fall display.
Available Values: NARROW/MEDIUM/WIDE
Available Values: BLUE/GRAY/GREEN/ORANGE/
Default Setting: MEDIUM
PURPLE/RED/SKY BLUE/MULTI
Description: In CW mode the APF peak center fre-
Default Setting: MULTI
quency is set according to the CW PITCH
frequency and the chosen APF bandwidth 119 PRMTRC EQ1 FREQ
value. In order to listen to the desired signal Function: Sets the center frequency of the low range for
comfortably, select one of the three band- the 3 band parametric MIC rophone equalizer.
widths of the peak filter. Available Values: 100 - 700 (Hz)/OFF (100Hz/step)
Default Setting: OFF
112 CONTOUR LEVEL Description: Selects the center frequency setting of the
Function: Adjusts the GAIN of the CONTOUR circuit.
low range of the 3 band parametric micro-
Available Values: −40 - 0 - 20
phone equalizer between “100 Hz” and
Default Setting: −15
“700 Hz”.
Description: Sets level of the attenuation or the gain of
the CONTOUR circuit.

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 Menu Mode
120 PRMTRC EQ1 LEVEL 126 PRMTRC EQ3 LEVEL
Function: Sets the gain for the low range of the 3 band Function: Sets the gain for the high range of the 3 band
parametric microphone equalizer. parametric microphone equalizer.
Available Values: −20 - 0 - 10 (dB) Available Values: −20 - 0 - 10 (dB)
Default Setting: 5 Default Setting: 5
Description: Adjusts the gain for the low range of the 3 Description: Selects the gain setting for the high range
band parametric microphone equalizer be- of the 3 band parametric microphone equal-
tween “−20 dB” and “+10 dB”. izer between “−20 dB” and “+10 dB”.

121 PRMTRC EQ1 BWTH 127 PRMTRC EQ3 BWTH

Function: Sets the width variation ( “Q” ) for the low Function: Selects the width setting (“Q”) for the high
range of the 3 band parametric microphone range of the 3 band parametric microphone
equalizer. equalizer.
Available Values: 1 - 10 Available Values: 1 - 10
Default Setting: 10 Default Setting: 10
Description: Selects the value of the width (Q) for the Description: Selects the width (“Q”) setting for the high
low range for the 3 band parametric micro- range of the 3 band parametric microphone
phone equalizer between “1” and “10”. equalizer between “1” and “10”.

122 PRMTRC EQ2 FREQ 128 P-PRMTRC EQ1 FREQ

Function: Sets the center frequency for the middle range Function: Sets the center frequency of the low range for
of the 3 band parametric microphone equal- the 3 band parametric microphone equalizer
izer. when the speech processor is activated.
Available Values: 700 - 1500 (Hz)/OFF (100Hz/step) Available Values: 100 - 700 (Hz)/OFF (100Hz/step)
Default Setting: OFF Default Setting: 200
Description: Selects the center frequency setting for the Description: Activates when the speech processor is
middle range of the 3 band parametric mi- “ON”. Adjusts the center frequency for the
crophone equalizer between “700 Hz” and low range of the 3 band parametric micro-
“1500 Hz”. phone equalizer between “100 Hz” and
“700 Hz”.
123 PRMTRC EQ2 LEVEL
Function: Sets the gain for the middle range of the 3 129 P-PRMTRC EQ1 LEVEL
band parametric microphone equalizer. Function: Selects the gain setting for the low range of
Available Values: −20 - 0 - 10 (dB) the 3 band parametric microphone equalizer
Default Setting: 5 when the speech processor is activated.
Description: Selects the gain setting for the middle range Available Values: −20 - 0 - 10 (dB)
of the 3 band parametric microphone equal- Default Setting: 0
izer between “−20 dB” and “+10 dB”. Description: Activates when the speech processor is
“ON”and sets the gain for the low range of
124 PRMTRC EQ2 BWTH the 3 band parametric microphone equalizer
Function: Sets the width variation (“Q”) for the middle
between “−20 dB” and “+10 dB”.
range of the 3 band parametric microphone
equalizer. 130 P-PRMTRC EQ1 BWTH
Available Values: 1 - 10 Function: Selects the width (“Q”) for the low range of
Default Setting: 10 the 3 band parametric microphone equalizer
Description: Selects the width ( “Q” ) for the middle when the speech processor is activated.
range of the 3 band parametric microphone Available Values: 1 - 10
equalizer between “1” and “10”. Default Setting: 2
Description: Activates when the speech processor is
125 PRMTRC EQ3 FREQ “ON” and sets the width (“Q”) for the low
Function: Sets the center frequency for the high range of
range of the 3 band parametric microphone
the 3 band parametric microphone equalizer.
equalizer between “1” and “10”.
Available Values: 1500 - 3200 (Hz)/OFF (100Hz/step)
Default Setting: OFF
Description: Selects the center frequency setting for the
high range of the 3 band parametric micro-
phone equalizer between “1500 Hz” and
“3200 Hz”.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 139

Menu Mode
131 P-PRMTRC EQ2 FREQ 136 P-PRMTRC EQ3 BWTH
Function: Selects the center frequency for the middle Function: Sets the width (“Q”) for the high range of the
range of the 3 band parametric microphone 3 band parametric microphone equalizer when
equalizer when the speech processor is acti- the speech processor is activated.
vated. Available Values: 1 - 10
Available Values: 700 - 1500 (Hz)/OFF (100Hz/step) Default Setting: 1
Default Setting: 800 Description: Activates when the speech processor is
Description: Selects the center frequency for the middle “ON”, and sets the width (‘Q”) for the high
range of the 3 band parametric microphone range of the 3 band parametric microphone
equalizer between “700 Hz” and “1500 equalizer between “1” and “10”.
Hz” when the speech processor is activated.
137 HF TX MAX POWER
132 P-PRMTRC EQ2 LEVEL Function: Sets the transmit RF power output of the HF
Function: Sets the gain for the middle range of the 3 band.
band parametric microphone equalizer when Available Values: 5 - 100
the speech processor is activated. Default Setting: 100
Available Values: −20 - 0 - 10 (dB)
Default Setting: 0
138 50M TX MAX POWER
Function: Sets the transmit RF power output of the 50
Description: Selects the gain setting for the middle range
MHz band.
of the 3 band parametric microphone equal-
Available Values: 5 - 100
izer between “−20 dB” and “+10 dB”
Default Setting: 100
when the speech processor is activated.
139 144 TX MAX POWER
133 P-PRMTRC EQ2 BWTH Function: Sets the transmit RF power output of the 144
Function: Sets the width (“Q”) for the middle range of
MHz band.
the 3 band parametric microphone equalizer
Available Values: 5 - 50
when the speech processor is activated.
Default Setting: 50
Available Values: 1 - 10
Default Setting: 1 140 430M TX MAX POWER
Description: Activates when the speech processor is Function: Sets the transmit RF power output of the 430
“ON”, and selects the width (“Q”) setting MHz band.
for the middle range of the 3 band paramet- Available Values: 5 - 50
ric microphone equalizer between “1” and Default Setting: 50
“10”.
141 TUNER SELECT
134 P-PRMTRC EQ3 FREQ Function: Sets the functions of the antenna tuner.
Function: Sets the center frequency for the high range of Available Values: O F F / I N T E R N A L / E X T E R N A L /
the 3 band parametric microphone equalizer ATAS/LAMP
when the speech processor is activated. Default Setting: INTERNAL
Available Values: 1500 - 3200 (Hz)/OFF (100Hz/step) Description: Selects the antenna tuner to be used or sets
Default Setting: 2100 the connections for a linear amplifier.
Description: Activates when the speech processor is INTERNAL: Select this item when using the in-
“ON”, and selects the center frequency ternal antenna tuner.
setting for the high range of the 3 band EXTERNAL: Select this item when using the ex-
parametric microphone equalizer between ternal antenna tuner (the optional
“1500 Hz” and “3200 Hz”. FC-40, etc.).
ATAS: Select this item when using the ac-
135 P-PRMTRC EQ3 LEVEL tive tuning antenna system ATAS-
Function: Sets the gain for the high range of the 3 band
120A.
parametric microphone equalizer when the
LAMP: Select this item when connecting
speech processor is activated.
the linear amplifier to the TUN/LIN
Available Values: −20 - 0 - 10 (dB)
jack on the rear panel.
Default Setting: 0
OFF: Select this item when not using the
Description: Activates when the speech processor is
antenna tuner or the linear ampli-
“ON”, and selects the gain setting for the
fier.
high range of the 3 band parametric micro-
phone equalizer between “−20 dB” and
“+10 dB”.

Page 140 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Menu Mode
142 VOX SELECT 147 DATA VOX DELAY
Function: Selects the function of the VOX operation. Function: Sets the VOX DELAY time while operating
Available Values: MIC/DATA VOX during the sending/receiving of data
Default Setting: MIC (PSK31, RTTY, etc.).
Description: Selects the function of the VOX operation. Available Values: 30msec - 3000msec
MIC: Operates via input from the MIC jack (mi- Default Setting: 100msec
crophone).
DATA: Operates via input from the RTTY/DATA
148 ANTI DVOX GAIN
Function: Sets the data VOX ant-trip.
or USB jack.
Available Values: 0 - 100
143 VOX GAIN Default Setting: 0
Function: Sets the VOX gain. Description: The sensitivity of the anti-trip circuit may
Available Values: 0 - 100 be adjusted so that the VOX circuit does
Default Setting: 50 not accidently engage due to the received
Description: Sets the operation sensitivity of the VOX data while operating VOX. Increase the
circuit. “1” represents the minimum sensi- setting to a value that the VOX circuit does
tivity and “100” represents the maximum not engage due to the received data ( the
sensitivity. The VOX operation sensitivity higher the value the greater the operation
may be adjusted while transmitting the sig- sensitivity).
nal.
149 EMERGENCY FREQ TX
144 VOX DELAY Function: Enables TX/RX operation on the Alaska
Function: Sets the VOX delay time. Emergency Channel, 5167.5kHz.
Available Values: 30 - 3000 msec (10 msec/step) Available Values: ENABLE/DISABLE
Default Setting: 500 msec Default Setting: DISABLE
Description: While operating VOX, the recovery time Description: When this Menu Item is set to ENABLE,
( delay time ) before returning to receive the spot frequency of 5167.5 kHz will be
mode from transmit mode may be set at 10 enabled. The Alaska Emergency Channel
msec intervals. The delay time may be ad- will be fount between the PMS memory
justed while transmitting the signal. channel “P-9U” and the memory channel
“01”.
145 ANTI VOX GAIN Important: The use of this frequency is restricted to
Function: Sets the VOX anti-trip.
stations operating in or near Alaska, and
Available Values: 0 - 100
only for emergency purposes ( never for
Default Setting: 50
routine operations).
Description: The sensitivity of the anti-trip circuit may
See §97.401(c) of the FCC regulations.
be adjusted so that the VOX circuit does
not accidently engage due to the sounds 150 PRT/WIRES FREQ
from the transceiver speaker. Increase the Function: Select the operating frequency setting method
anti-trip value to the point that sounds from when connecting to a local node.
the transceiver speaker do not engage the Available Values: MANUAL/PRESET
transmitter while using VOX operation. Default Setting: MANUAL
Description:
146 DATA VOX GAIN MANUAL: Manually set the frequency to access
Function: Sets the VOX GAIN while operating VOX
the local node.
during the sending/receiving of data (PSK31,
PRESET: Access the local node by selecting a
RTTY, etc.).
preset frequency channel.
Available Values: 0 - 100
Default Setting: 50 151 PRESET FREQUENCY
Description: Set the data input VOX gain to the point Function: Presetting (registering frequency channels in
that the data signal reliably engages the advance) permits convenient connection to lo-
transmitter, and also releases the transmit cal nodes.
when there is no data signal. Available Values: -
Default Setting: 145.375.00/146.550.00 (USA version)

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 141

Menu Mode
152 SEARCH SETUP
Function: To select the FAVORITE list sort criteria.
Available Values: HISTORY/ACTIVITY
Default Setting: HISTORY
Description:
HISTORY: Displays the list sorted in order, be-
ginning with the most recently con-
nected destination station.
ACTIVITY: Displays the list sorted in descending
order, beginning with the room with
the most connected nodes.
Nodes are listed after rooms.

153 WIRES DG-ID

Function: Setting the DG-ID number for WIRES-X.
Available Values: AUTO/01 to 99
Default Setting: AUTO
Description:
AUTO: May connect to the node station available
in your area.
01 to 99: May connect to the node station whose DG-
ID matches.

Page 142 FT-991 Operating Manual

Installation of Optional Accessories
FC-40 External Automatic Antenna Tuner (for Wire Antenna)
The FC-40 makes use of the control circuitry built into the transceiver, which allows the operator to control and monitor
automatic operation of the FC-40, which mounts near the antenna feedpoint. The FC-40 uses specially selected,
thermally stable components, and is housed in a waterproof case to withstand severe environmental conditions with high
reliability.
A carefully-chosen combination of solid-state switching components and high-speed relays allows the FC-40 to match
a wide variety of antennas to within a 2:1 SWR on any amateur band frequency (160 through 6 meters), typically in less
than eight seconds. Transmitter power required for matching may be as little as 4 - 60 Watts, and matching settings are
automatically stored in memory for instant recall when the same frequency range is selected later.
Please see the FC-40 Operating Manual for detailed information.

Interconnections to FT-991A
After mounting the FC-40, connect the cables from the
FC-40 to the ANT and TUNER jacks on the rear panel
of the FT-991A Transceiver.

Antenna Terminal
ANT
Antenna Cable (5 m)

GND

Install the supplied ferrite

core as close to the con-
nector as possible.
Control Cable (5 m)

Wrap the ends of the waterproof

cap with the supplied sealing
tape to protect against moisture
ingress.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 143

Installation of Optional Accessories
FC-40 External Automatic Antenna Tuner (for Wire Antenna)
Setup the FT-991A
The optional FC-40 Automatic Antenna Tuner provides automatic tuning of a coaxial line to present nominal 50-ohm
impedance to the FT-991A’s ANT jack.
Before operation can begin, the FT-991A microprocessor must be setup to accommodate the FC-40 automatic tuner.
This is done using the Menu Mode:

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu MENU(SETUP) Button TUNE Button

mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the Menu Item “141
TUNER SELECT”.
3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to select “EXTERNAL”.

MULTI Knob

     / 6 : /# : 219'4  Note:
   670'4 5 ' . '%6 + 0 6'40#.
   81: 5 ' . '%6 /+ % r Be sure to connect a good earth ground to the GND
terminal of the FC-40.
r The carrier signal transmits continuously while
tuning is in progress. Please monitor the operating
4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new setting.
frequency before beginning the tuning process. Be
sure you are not interfering with others who may
already be using the frequency.
r It is normal to hear the sound of the relays while
tuning is in progress.
     / 6 : /# : 219'4
   670'4 5 ' . '%6

':6'40#.
r If the impedance cannot be matched by the FC-40
   81: 5 ' . '%6 /+ % better than 2:1, and the “HI-SWR” icon blinks, the
microprocessor will not retain the tuning data for that
frequency, as the FC-40 presumes that you will want
to adjust or repair your antenna system to correct the
5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]
high SWR condition.
on the LCD to exit to normal operation.
Operation
1. Press the TUNE button briefly to activate the
Automatic Antenna Tuner.
2. The “TUNER” icon will appear in the TFT display.
3. Press and hold the TUNE button for one second
to begin automatic tuning. The transmitter will be
engaged, and the “TUNER” icon will blink while
tuning is in progress.
4. Tuning will stop automatically when a low SWR is
achieved. You may Press the TUNE button while
tuning is in progress, to cancel the automatic tuning.
5. To disable the Automatic Antenna Tuner, press the
TUNE button briefly again.

Page 144 FT-991 Operating Manual

Installation of Optional Accessories
Active-Tuning Antenna System (ATAS-120A) Operation
ATAS-120A is a multi-band auto-tuning antenna that can be used in the amateur bands from the HF band to the UHF
band (7/14/21/28(29) /50/144/430)
Using the active tuning mechanism, tuning can be carried out automatically by the control signal from FT-991A. Please
refer to the ATAS-120A Operating Manual for the assembly and installation of ATAS-120A.

Interconnections to FT-991A
Connect “ATAS-120A” to the ANT terminal of FT-991A with a coaxial cable as shown in the diagram below.

Advice:
 Turn off the external power supply switch and When installing a dedicated VHF/UHF antenna si-
the FT-991A power supply switch first before multaneously with the ATAS-120A, use a VHF/UHF
antenna that does not include the HF - 50 MHz bands
connecting the cables. (144/430 MHz type).
 Grounding is required for the ATAS-120A. Make The reception circuit of the V/UHF band may be im-
pacted by the transmitter energy from the ATAS-120A.
sure the antenna base is in contact with the car body In addition, install the 2 antennas as far away from each
other as possible.
to ensure proper grounding.

Note:
 Do not plug or unplug the connector of the antenna
cable with wet hands. Do not plug or unplug the

Dedicated V/UHF band antenna

connector during transmission as well. This may
result in electric shock, injury, etc.
 The unit cannot be used with both the antenna tuner
and ATAS-120A connected.

ATAS-120A
FT-991A

When using an antenna duplexer, the ANT terminal of

the ATAS-120A and the HF/50 MHz ANT terminal
of the FT-991A must be connected in series and also
insulated from the grounding in order to supply the
control voltage for the ATAS-120A.
ATAS-120A

Commercial
antenna
duplexer
FT-991A

Commercial
antenna base

ATAS-120A connection example

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 145

Installation of Optional Accessories
Active-Tuning Antenna System (ATAS-120A) Operation
Settings Before Operating the Tuner MENU(SETUP) Button TUNE Button

1. Press the MENU(SETUP) button to enter the Menu

mode.
2. Rotate the MULTI knob to select the Menu item “141
TUNER SELECT”.
3. Touch [ SELECT ] on the LCD, then rotate the
MULTI knob to set this Menu item to “ATAS”. The
“ATAS” icon will appear in the display.
MULTI Knob

     / 6 : /# : 219'4 
   670'4 5 ' . '%6 + 0 6'40#.
   81: 5 ' . '%6 /+ %

4. Touch [ENTER] on the LCD to save the new setting.

     / 6 : /# : 219'4 
   670'4 5 ' . '%6 #6#5
   81: 5 ' . '%6 /+ %

5. Press the MENU(SETUP) button or touch [BACK]

on the LCD to exit to normal operation.

Tuning Operation Manual Tuning

The tuning of the ATAS-120A is carried out automati- Carry out the tuning of the ATAS-120A manually.
cally.
Press the PTT switch on the microphone to transmit and
1. Press the TUNE button to begin automatic tuning. then press the UP/DWN button on the microphone to
The transmitter will be engaged, and the “ATAS” adjust the antenna until the meter indicates the minimum
icon will blink while tuning is in progress. SWR.
Press the TUNE button to stop the tuning in the middle The meter on the screen will automatically change to a
of the process. SWR meter.
Note:
 Check the grounding and installation conditions if
“HI-SWR” is flashing (tuning cannot be carried out).
 As transmit signals are emitted during tuning, take
note not to interfere with any communication that is
already in progress on the frequency.

Page 146 FT-991 Operating Manual

Installation of Optional Accessories
Mounting Bracket MMB-90 Installation
MMB-90 is a mobile bracket used to mount the FT-991A series in an automotive vehicle.

Installation Procedure
1. Use the enclosed double-sided tape to temporarily
mount the bracket at the installation location and
then fasten the bracket securely with the enclosed
screws so that it does not loosen or detach due to vi- Stay (user prepared)
brations etc.
Mount the unit securely using commercial stays etc.
if the installation location is weak.
If you are mounting the unit using tapping screws,
pay due attention to the strength of the installation
location and check that the bracket does not detach
easily.
2. Use the enclosed knob screws to mount the main
transceiver unit to MMB-90.
Note:
To install the MMB-90, before commencing work, first
use the following points as a guide to find a suitable
installation location that will allow the transceiver to be
easily operated.
 Please choose a location that will not affect the op-
eration of the air bag system for cars equipped with
air bags.
 That will not obstruct the field of view in front.
 That will not impede driving.
 That will not result in danger to the passengers in the
assistant driver’s seat and rear seats etc.
 That is not exposed to direct sunlight and hot air etc.
 That is well-ventilated.
Select a flat mounting surface. If the mounting surface
is not flat, the bracket may be distorted, resulting in the
inability to mount the transceiver. The viewing angle of the transceiver may be
Be sure to use screws of the specified size to install each adjusted by changing the location of the front
part according to the specified method. Malfunctions mounting screws.
will result if screws of the wrong sizes are used, or if the
unit is mounted wrongly.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 147

Specifications
General
Rx Frequency Range: 30 kHz - 56 MHz, 118 MHz - 164 MHz, 420 MHz - 470 MHz (operating)
1.8 MHz - 54 MHz, 144 MHz - 148 MHz, 430 MHz - 450 MHz (specified per-
formance, Amateur bands only)
Tx Frequency Ranges: 1.8 MHz - 54 MHz, 144 MHz - 148 MHz, 430 MHz - 450 MHz (Amateur bands
only)
Frequency Stability: ±0.5 ppm (after 1 minute @+14 °F to +122 °F [–10 °C to +50 °C])
Operating Temperature Range: +14 °F to +122 °F (–10 °C to +50 °C)
Emission Modes: A1A (CW), A3E (AM), J3E (LSB, USB), F3E (FM), F7W (C4FM), F2D
Frequency Steps: 5/10 Hz (SSB, CW, & AM), 100 Hz (FM, C4FM)
Antenna Impedance: 50 Ohms, unbalanced
16.7 - 150 Ohms, unbalanced (Tuner ON, 1.8 MHz - 30 MHz Amateur bands)
25 - 100 Ohms, unbalanced (Tuner ON, 50 MHz Amateur band)
Power Consumption Approx. : Rx (no signal) 1.8 A
( )
Rx (signal present) 2.2 A
Tx 23 A (HF/50 MHz 100 W), 15 A (144/430 MHz 50 W)
Supply Voltage: DC 13.8 V ± 15% (Negative Ground)
(
Dimensions WxHxD : ) 9.0” x 3.2” x 10.0” (229 x 80 x 253 mm)
Weight (Approx.): 9.5 lbs (4.3 kg)

Transmitter
Power Output: 5 - 100 watts (2 - 25 watts AM carrier)
Modulation Types: J3E (SSB): Balanced,
A3E (AM): Low-Level (Early Stage),
F3E (FM): Variable Reactance
F7W (C4FM): 4-level FSK
Maximum FM Deviation: ±5.0 kHz/±2.5 kHz
Harmonic Radiation: Better than –50 dB (1.8 MHz - 30 MHz Amateur bands)
Better than –63 dB (50 MHz Amateur band)
Better than –60 dB (144 MHz, 430 MHz Amateur bands)
SSB Carrier Suppression: At least 50 dB below peak output
Undesired Sideband Suppression: At least 50 dB below peak output
Bandwidth: 3 kHz (LSB/USB), 500 Hz (CW), 6 kHz (AM), 16 kHz (FM/C4FM)
Audio Response (SSB): Not more than –6 dB from 300 to 2700 Hz
Microphone Impedance: 600 Ohms (200 to 10 kOhms)

Page 148 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Specifications
Receiver
Circuit Type: SSB/CW/AM: Triple-conversion Super heterodyne
FM/C4FM: Double-conversion Super heterodyne
Intermediate Frequencies: 40.455 MHz
SSB/CW/AM: 69.450 MHz/9.000 MHz/24 kHz
FM/C4FM: 69.450 MHz/450 kHz
Sensitivity: SSB/CW (BW: 2.4 kHz, 10 dB S+N/N)
0.158 µV (1.8 - 30 MHz) (AMP 2 “ON”)
0.125 µV (50 - 54 MHz) (AMP 2 “ON”)
0.11 µV (144 - 148 MHz)
0.11 µV (430 - 450 MHz)
AM (BW: 6 kHz, 10 dB S+N/N, 30 % modulation @400 Hz)
5 µV (0.5 - 1.8 MHz) (AMP 2 “ON”)
1.6 µV (1.8 - 30 MHz) (AMP 2 “ON”)
1.25 µV (50 - 54 MHz) (AMP 2 “ON”)
FM (BW: 15 kHz, 12 dB SINAD)
0.35 µV (28 - 30 MHz) (AMP 2 “ON”)
0.35 µV (50 - 54 MHz) (AMP 2 “ON”)
0.18 µV (144 - 148 MHz)
0.18 µV (430 - 440 MHz)
There is no specification for frequency ranges not listed.
( )
Squelch Sensitivity TYP. : SSB/CW/AM 1.0 µV (1.8 - 30 MHz, 50 - 54 MHz) (AMP2 “ON”)
1.0 µV (144 - 148 MHz, 430 - 450 MHz)
FM 0.35 µV (28 - 30 MHz, 50 - 54 MHz) (AMP2 “ON”)
0.125 µV (144 - 148 MHz, 430 - 450 MHz)
There is no specification for frequency range not listed.
Selectivity: Mode –6 dB –60 dB
CW/RTTY/PKT 0.5 kHz or better 750 Hz or less
SSB 2.4 kHz or better 3.6 kHz or less
AM 6 kHz or better 15 kHz or less
FM 12 kHz or better 30 kHz or less (–50 dB)
Image Rejection: 70 dB or better (1.8 MHz - 50 MHz Amateur bands)
60 dB or better (144/430 MHz Amateur band)
Maximum Audio Output: 2.5 W into 4 Ohms with 10% THD
Audio Output Impedance: 4 to 8 Ohms (4 Ohms: nominal)
Conducted Radiation: Less than 4 nW

Specifications are subject to change, in the interest of technical improvement, without notice or obligation, and are
guaranteed only within the amateur bands.

Symbol placed on the equipment

Direct current

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 149

Index
A Contest Number Programming................................... 87
CONTOUR Control.................................................... 50
A/B Button.................................................................. 22 Convenient Memory functions................................. 103
A=B Button................................................................. 22 C.S Button................................................................... 22
About ATU Memories................................................. 64 C.S (Custom Switch).................................................. 39
About ATU Operation................................................. 64 Current Mode (Modulation Form) Indicator............... 24
About Coaxial Cable................................................... 13 Custom Switch............................................................ 39
About GPS Positioning............................................. 116 CW Convenience Features.......................................... 84
About the Display....................................................... 24 CW Delay Time Setting.............................................. 85
Accessories & Options.................................................. 7 CW Pitch Adjustment................................................. 85
Active-Tuning Antenna System (ATAS-120A)........ 145 CW Spotting (Zero-Beating)....................................... 84
Adjustable Receiver Audio Filter................................ 60
Adjusting the Clock.................................................... 10 D
Adjusting the Main Tuning Dial Torque....................... 9 DATA (PSK) Operation............................................ 122
Adjusting the Noise Blanker Level............................. 49 DC IN Jack.................................................................. 27
Adjusting the SSB Transmitted Bandwidth................ 69 DG-ID/DP-ID Features............................................... 99
AF GAIN Knob.......................................................... 23 Digital Group ID (DG-ID) feature.............................. 99
AGC............................................................................ 59 Digital Mode Operation.............................................. 97
Alaska Emergency Frequency: 5167.5 khz.............. 112 Digital Noise Reduction (DNR).................................. 56
A>M Button................................................................ 23 Digital NOTCH Filter (DNF)..................................... 56
AM Mode Transmission............................................. 61 Digital Personal ID (DP-ID) feature......................... 101
AMS (Automatic Mode Select) Operation................. 40 DIMMER.................................................................... 37
Antenna Considerations.............................................. 13 Displaying the Position Information......................... 118
ANT Jack (144/430MHz)........................................... 27 DNF............................................................................ 56
ANT Jack (HF/50MHz).............................................. 28 DNR............................................................................ 56
ARS............................................................................. 95
ATAS-120A............................................................... 145 E
ATT (Attenuator)........................................................ 47 Electronic Keyer......................................................... 80
Attenuator................................................................... 47 Enhancing Transmit Signal Quality............................ 65
ATU Operation............................................................ 63 Entering the Location Information Manually........... 118
Audio Peak Filter........................................................ 58 Erasing Memory Channel Data................................. 107
Automatic Gain Control.............................................. 59 EXT SPKR Jack.......................................................... 28
Automatic Mode Select............................................... 40
Automatic Repeater Shift (ARS)................................ 95 F
Available Options.......................................................... 8 FAST Button............................................................... 23
FAST Indicators.......................................................... 26
B FC-40 External Automatic Antenna Tuner............... 143
BAND Button............................................................. 21 FH-2 Remote Control Switches.................................. 30
Band Stack Operation................................................. 39 F(M-LIST) Button...................................................... 21
Base Station Wire Stand................................................ 9 FM Mode Operation................................................... 93
Basic Operation........................................................... 32 Front Panel Controls & Switches................................ 20
Before You Begin.......................................................... 9 Full Reset.................................................................... 12
Full Reset (Except SETUP settings)........................... 12
C Function Menu............................................................ 25
C4FM Mode (Digital Mode) Operation...................... 97
Changing the Frequency of the Home Channel........ 105 G
Checking a Memory Channel Status......................... 107 General Description...................................................... 1
Choosing the Desired Memory Group....................... 111 GM Function............................................................. 119
CLAR Button.............................................................. 23 GND............................................................................ 27
CLAR (Clarifier) Operation........................................ 36 GPS/CAT Jack............................................................ 27
Clarifier Operation...................................................... 25 GPS Function............................................................ 116
CLAR/VFO-B Knob................................................... 23 GPS Signal Capturing Indicator.................................. 25
Clock........................................................................... 25 Grounding................................................................... 14
Connection of Antenna and Power Cables.................. 15
Connection of Headphone........................................... 16 H
Connection of Microphone......................................... 16 HI-SWR Indicator....................................................... 24
Connection of Remote Control Keypad...................... 16 Home Channel.......................................................... 105
Contest Memory Keyer............................................... 86

Page 150 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Index
I N
Icons............................................................................ 24 NAR............................................................................ 54
IF Noise Blanker (NB)................................................ 49 NARROW (NAR)....................................................... 54
IF NOTCH Filter........................................................ 55 NB............................................................................... 49
IF SHIFT Operation.................................................... 51 Noise Blanker.............................................................. 49
Inputting the Call Sign................................................ 11 NOTCH Filter...................................................... 55,  56
Installation and Interconnections................................ 16
Installation of Optional Accessories......................... 143 O
Intercept Point Optimization....................................... 48 ON/OFF Switch.......................................................... 20
IPO (Intercept Point Optimization)............................. 48 Operating Mode Indicators......................................... 24
Operation Frequency................................................... 25
K Operation on 60-Meter (5 MHz) Band....................... 35
Keyboard Frequency Entry......................................... 44
Keyer Operating Mode............................................... 82 P
Keyer Weight (Dot/Dash) Ratio.................................. 81 Parametric Microphone Equalizer.............................. 65
KEY Jack.................................................................... 20 PHONES Jack............................................................. 20
Key, Keyer, and Computer-Driven Keying Plug/Connector Pinout Diagrams............................... 19
Interconnections.......................................................... 17 PMS (Programmable Memory Scanning)................. 115

L Q
Labeling Memories................................................... 106 QMB (Quick Memory Bank).................................... 103
LED Indicators............................................................ 26 Quick Memory Bank................................................. 103
LOCK.......................................................................... 37
LOCK Button.............................................................. 23
R
LOCK Indicators......................................................... 26 RCL/STO Button........................................................ 22
Rear Panel................................................................... 27
M Recalling the Home Channel.................................... 105
Main Band RX/TX Indicators..................................... 26 Receiver Operation..................................................... 46
Main Control Buttons (SWAP)................................... 25 REM/ALC Jack........................................................... 28
Main Tuning Dial Knob.............................................. 23 Repeater Operation..................................................... 94
Memory Channel Recall........................................... 104 Resetting Memories (Only)......................................... 12
Memory Group Assignment...................................... 110 Resetting the Microprocessor..................................... 12
Memory Groups........................................................ 110 Reversing the Keyer Polarity...................................... 83
Memory List................................................................ 25 RF Gain....................................................................... 57
Memory Mode RX/TX Indicators.............................. 26 RF GAIN Knob........................................................... 23
Memory Operation.................................................... 103 RTTY/DATA Jack....................................................... 27
Memory Storage........................................................ 104 RTTY (Radio Teletype) Operation............................ 120
Memory Tune............................................................ 108 RX Indicator (Green).................................................. 26
Menu List.................................................................... 25
Menu Mode............................................................... 124
S
Menu Resetting........................................................... 12 Safety Precautions......................................................... 5
MENU(SETUP) Button.............................................. 21 SCOPE........................................................................ 42
Message Memory........................................................ 86 Scope/Waterfall........................................................... 25
Message Memory Programming................................. 88 Setting with the MULTI Knob.................................... 44
Meters......................................................................... 25 Setup for Straight Key................................................ 78
MH-31A8J Microphone Switches.............................. 29 S-Meter....................................................................... 25
MH-36E8J Microphone Switches............................... 31 Specifications............................................................ 148
MIC Jack..................................................................... 20 Speech Processor........................................................ 68
MMB-90................................................................... 147 SPLIT Button.............................................................. 23
MODE Button............................................................. 21 Split-Frequency Operation.......................................... 76
MONITOR.................................................................. 74 Split Memory............................................................ 109
More Frequency Navigation Techniques.................... 44 Split Operation Using the TX Clarifier....................... 75
Mounting Bracket MMB-90..................................... 147 SSB Mode Transmission............................................. 61
MULTI Knob.............................................................. 21 Standard Memory Operation..................................... 104
MULTI Knob Operations............................................ 24 Sub Band TX Indicators.............................................. 26
Supplied Accessories.................................................... 7
Sweep Mode................................................................ 43

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 151

Index
T
Table of Contents.......................................................... 3
TEXT Memory............................................................ 89
TFT Liquid Crystal Display........................................ 24
To change the function assigned to the main control
button.......................................................................... 25
Toggling to the Digital Communication Mode........... 41
Tone Squelch Operation.............................................. 96
Transmitter Convenience Features.............................. 70
TUNE Button.............................................................. 22
TUN/LIN Jack............................................................ 27
TX Indicator (Red)...................................................... 26
TXW Button................................................................ 22

U
USB Jack..................................................................... 28
Using the Automatic Antenna Tuner........................... 63
Using the Built-in Electronic Keye............................. 80

V
VFO-B Data................................................................ 25
VFO COLOR.............................................................. 38
VFO Scanning........................................................... 113
VL-1000 Linear Amplifier Interconnections.............. 18
V/M Button................................................................. 23
Voice Memory............................................................. 70
VOX............................................................................ 72

W
WIDTH....................................................................... 52
WIRES-X.................................................................. 119

Z
Zero-Beating............................................................... 84

Page 152 FT-991 Operating Manual

 Note
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference
in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
 Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

1. Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by YAESU MUSEN could void the user’s
authorization to operate this device.
2. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions; (1)
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference including
interference that may cause undesired operation.
3. The scanning receiver in this equipment is incapable of tuning, or readily being altered, by the User to operate
within the frequency bands allocated to the Domestic public Cellular Telecommunications Service in Part 22.

This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following
two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference,
including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de
licence. L’exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire de
brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l’appareil doit accepter tout brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage
est susceptible d’en compromettre le fonctionnement.

DECLARATION BY MANUFACTURER
The scanner receiver is not a digital scanner and is incapable of being converted or modified into a digital scanner
receiver by any user.

WARNING: MODIFICATION OF THIS DEVICE TO RECEIVE CELLULAR RADIOTELEPHONE SERVICE

SIGNALS IS PROHIBITED UNDER FCC RULES AND FEDERAL LAW.

CAN ICES-3 (B) / NMB-3 (B)

European Users should note that operation of this unit in Transmit mode requires the operator to have a valid Am-
ateur Radio Licence from their respective Countries Amateur Radio Licencing Authority for the Frequencies and
Transmitter Power levels that this Radio transmits on. Failure to comply may be unlawful and liable for prosecu-
tion.

FT-991 Operating Manual Page 153

Note

Page 154 FT-991 Operating Manual

 EU Declaration of Conformity
We, Yaesu Musen Co. Ltd of Tokyo, Japan, hereby declare that this radio equipment FT-991A is in full compliance with
EU Radio Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU. The full text of the Declaration of Conformity for this product is available to
view at http://www.yaesu.com/jp/red

ATTENTION – Condition of use

This transceiver operates on frequencies that are regulated. Use of the
Transmitter in the EU countries shown in the accompanying table is not
permitted without authorization. Users should consult their local spectrum AT BE BG CY CZ DE
DK ES EE FI FR UK
management authority for licensing conditions applicable to this equipment. EL HR HU IE IT LT
LU LV MT NL PL PT
RO SK SI SE CH IS
LI NO – – – –

Disposal of Electronic and Electrical Equipment

Products with the symbol (crossed-out wheeled bin) cannot be disposed as household waste.
Electronic and Electrical Equipment should be recycled at a facility capable of handling these items and their
waste by-products.
Please contact a local equipment supplier representative or service center for information about the waste
collection system in your country.
Copyright 2020
YAESU MUSEN CO., LTD.
All rights reserved.
No portion of this manual may be
reproduced without the permission of
YAESU MUSEN CO., LTD.

YAESU MUSEN CO., LTD.

Tennozu Parkside Building
2-5-8 Higashi-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 140-0002 Japan
YAESU USA
6125 Phyllis Drive, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A. 2006J-FS-1
YAESU UK Printed in Japan
Unit 12, Sun Valley Business Park, Winnall Close
Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 0LB, U.K.