AIR BAND TRANSCEIVER

FTA-250L
Operating Manual

F
 Contents
Introduction.........................................................................1 Controls & Connectors (Top / Front Panel)......................9
Safety Precautions.............................................................2 Controls & Connectors (Left / Right Side).....................10
Important Notice!................................................................4 Operation........................................................................... 11
Accessories and Options..................................................5 Using comm mode..........................................................13
Supplied Accessories........................................................5 Using memory mode.......................................................13
Options..............................................................................5 Reception of Weather Channel Broadcasts....................15
Before You Begin................................................................6 Weather alert reception...................................................15
Antenna Installation..........................................................6 Function feature..............................................................16
Belt Clip Installation..........................................................6 Scanning Operation........................................................18
Installing the Battery Pack................................................6 Memory Scan Skip..........................................................19
Removing the Battery Pack..............................................6 Maintenance of the Memory...........................................19
Charging the Battery Pack................................................7 Dual Watch feature.........................................................20
Charging with external power cable..................................7 Accessing the 121.5 MHz Emergency Frequency..........21
Low Battery Indication.......................................................7 Adjusting the squelch......................................................22
Quick Guide........................................................................8 Key Lock.........................................................................22
Enter the COMM, MEMORY and WX modes...................8 Previous Frequency and Memory Recall Feature...........22
Adjust frequency...............................................................8 Advanced Operation........................................................23
Store frequencies to memory............................................8 Enter setup mode............................................................23
Recall a memory channel.................................................8 Summary of the SETUP Menu........................................24
Recall six frequently used functions..................................8 Resetting the Transceiver................................................28
Return to previous operating frequencies or Headset Connection.........................................................28
memory channels..............................................................8 Troubleshooting For Headset Connection......................29
Call the emergency communication Headset specification requirements for SCU-42.............29
frequency (121.5 MHz).....................................................8 Specifications...................................................................30
 Introduction
The YAESU FTA-250L is ultra compact, stylish, solid hand-held transceivers providing communication (transmit
and receive) capability on the International Aircraft Communication Band (“COM” band: 118 to 136.975 MHz).
The FTA-250L includes NOAA weather band monitoring and 250 memory channels. The channel configurations
can be easily reprogrammed in minutes using the optional PC Programming Software and your PC.
We recommend that you read this manual in its entirety, so as to understand the many features of the FTA-250L
completely. Keep this manual handy, so you may use it for reference.

Congratulations!
You now have at your fingertips a valuable communications tool, a YAESU two-way radio! Rugged, reliable
and easy to use, your YAESU radio will keep you in constant touch with your friends and colleagues for
years to come, with negligible maintenance or downtime.
Please take a few minutes to read this manual carefully. The information presented here will allow you to
derive maximum performance from your radio, in case questions arise later on.
We’re glad you joined the YAESU team. YAESU products cover the entire spectrum of radio communica-
tions applications, and our worldwide support network is here to serve you. Let us help you get your mes-
sage across.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 1

 Safety Precautions
Be sure to read the safety precautions to use this prod- Do not use this product while riding a bicycle or driving a car. Ac-
uct safely. cidents can result.
Be sure to stop the bicycle or car at a safe place before using this
Yaesu is not liable for failures and other problems caused product.
due to misuse or use of this product by you or a third party. Do not perform transmission in a crowded place for the safety of
persons using a medical device such as a cardiac pacemaker.
Also, Yaesu is not liable for damages caused through use of The radio wave emitted from this product can cause the medical de-
this product by you or a third party except in the case where vice to malfunction and result in an accident.
ordered to pay for damages under the laws. Do not touch any material leaking from the battery pack with bare
hands.
Type and meaning of the marks The chemical that has stuck to your skin or entered your eye can cause
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation chemical burns. In such a case, consult the doctor immediately.
DANGER which, if not avoided, could result in death or Do not use this product or the battery charger in a place where
serious injury. flammable gas is generated.
A fire or explosion can occur.
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation Do not solder or short-circuit the terminal of the battery pack.
WARNING which, if not avoided, could result in death or A fire, leak, overheating, explosion, or ignition can result. Do not carry
serious injury. the battery pack together with a necklace, hairpin, or small metal ob-
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation jects. A short circuit can result.
CAUTION which, if not avoided, may result in minor or
moderate injury or only property damage. WARNING
Type and meaning of symbols Do not power this transceiver with a voltage other than the speci-
fied power supply voltage.
Indicates a prohibited action, not to be done in order to use this prod- A fire, electric shock, or damage may result.
uct safely. For example, indicates that the product should not be
disassembled. Do not use the battery pack for any model other than the speci-
fied transceiver.
Indicates a required action, to be done in order to use this product A fire, leak, overheating, explosion, or ignition can result.
safely. For example, indicates that the power plug should be re-
moved. Do not make very long transmissions.
The main body of the transceiver may overheat, resulting in a failure
or burns.
DANGER
Do not disassemble or make any alteration to this product.
Do not use this product in “an area where use of it is prohibited”, An injury, electric shock, or failure can result.
e.g., inside the hospital or train.”
This product can affect electronic or medical devices. Keep the terminals of the battery pack clean.
Those who are carrying a medical device such as a cardiac pace- If terminal contacts are dirty or corroded, a fire, leak, overheating, ex-
maker should not perform transmission near the device. When plosion, or ignition can result.
transmitting, use an external antenna and keep as far as possible
away from the external antenna. Do not handle the battery pack or charger with wet hands. Do not
The radio wave emitted by the transmitter can cause the medical de- insert or remove the power plug with wet hands.
vice to malfunction and result in an accident. An injury, leak, fire, or failure can result.

2 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 If smoke or strange odor is emitted from the main body, battery Keep magnetic cards and videotape away from the transceiver.
pack, or battery charger, immediately turn the transceiver off; re- The data recorded on cash cards or videotape can be erased.
move the battery pack, and remove the power plug from the outlet.
A fire, leak, overheating, damage, ignition, or failure can result. Con- Charge the battery pack within the temperature range from +5 °C
tact the dealer from which you purchased this product or Yaesu Cus- to +35 °C (+41 °F to +95 °F).
tomer Support. Charging the battery pack outside this temperature range can cause
Do not use the battery pack which is externally damaged or de- leak, overheating, decrease in performance, or reduction in service life
formed. can result.
A fire, leak, heating, explosion, or ignition can result. When unplugging the power cord of the battery charger, be sure
to hold the power plug.
Do not use any battery charger which is not specified by Yaesu. Pulling the power cord can damage it and cause a fire or electronic shock.
A fire or failure can result.
Do not use the earphones or head-phones at an extremely high
When transmitting, keep the transceiver at least 5.0 mm (3/16 inch) volume level.
away from your body. Use only the supplied antenna. Do not use Hearing impairment can result.
modified or damaged antennas.
Keep this product out of reach of children.
If charging of the battery pack cannot be completed within the An injury, etc. can result.
specified charging time, immediately remove the power plug of
the battery charger from the outlet. Install the belt clip securely.
A fire, leak, overheating, explosion, or ignition can result. If they are installed improperly, the FTA-250L may fall or drop, result-
ing in an injury or damage.
CAUTION Do not place a heavy object on the power cord of the battery
charger.
Do not dangle or throw this product by holding its antenna. The battery cord can be dam-aged, resulting in a fire or electric shock.
This product can hit and injure someone. In addition, doing so can re- Do not use the included battery charger to charge any battery
sult in a transceiver failure or damage. pack, which is not specified for use with the charger.
A fire can result.
Do not use transceiver in a crowded place.
The antenna can hit someone, resulting in an injury. Do not operate the transmitter near the TV or radio.
Radio disturbance can occur in the transceiver, the TV, or the radio.
Do not place this transceiver in a place subject to direct sunlight
or near a heater. Do not use any products other than the specified options and ac-
The transceiver can deform or discolor. cessories.
A failure can result.
Do not place this transceiver in a humid or dusty place.
A fire or failure can result. When the battery charger is not in use, remove its power plug
from the outlet.
During transmission, keep the antenna as far from you as possible.
Long-time exposure to electromagnetic waves can have a negative
impact on your health. Before discarding the worn battery pack, affix tape or the like to
its terminals.
Do not clean the case with thinner or benzene.
Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the case. Before using this transceiver in a hybrid or fuel-saving car, be sure to
check with the auto-mobile manufacturer regarding use of the trans-
ceiver in that car. Noise generated by an onboard electrical device
If the transceiver is not being used for an extended period, turn it off (inverter, etc.) can disrupt the normal operation of the transceiver.
and remove the battery pack for safety.

Do not drop, strike, or throw the transceiver. Do not use at extremely low atmospheric pressure.
A failure or damage may result.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 3

 Important Notice!
FCC RF Exposure Compliance Requirements for  When transmitting, hold the radio in a vertical po-
Occupational Use Only: sition with its microphone 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5
The FTA-250L has been tested and complies with the cm) away from your mouth and keep the antenna
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) RF expo- at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) away from your head and
sure limits for Occupational Use/Controlled Exposure body.
Environment. In addition, the radio complies with the fol-  The radio must be used with a maximum oper-
lowing Standards and Guidelines: ating duty cycle not exceeding 50%, in typical
 FCC 96-326, Guidelines for Evaluating the Environ- Push-to-Talk configurations. DO NOT transmit for
mental Effects of Radio-Frequency Radiation. more than 50% of total radio use time (50% duty
 FCC OET Bulletin 65 Edition 97-01 (1997) Supple- cycle). Transmitting more than 50% of the time
ment C, Evaluating Compliance with FCC Guidelines can cause FCC RF exposure compliance require-
for Human Exposure to Radio Frequency Electro- ments to be exceeded.
magnetic Fields.  Always use YAESU authorized accessories.
 ANSI/IEEE C95.1-1992, IEEE Standard for Safety
Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio NOTICE
Frequency Electromagnetic Fields, 3 kHz to 300 There are no user-serviceable parts inside this
GHz. transceiver.
 ANSI/IEEE C95.3-1992, IEEE Recommended Prac- All service work must be referred to an Authorized
tice for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous Service Center.
Electromagnetic Fields - RF and Microwave.
 This radio is NOT approved for use by the gen-
eral population in an uncontrolled environment.
This radio is restricted to occupational use, work
related operations only where the radio operator
must have the knowledge to control its RF expo-
sure conditions.

4 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 Accessories and Options
Supplied Accessories Options
Lithium-ion Battery Pack SBR-25LI Speaker Microphone SSM-20A
AC Adapter SAD-26 Earphone (available only with the SSM-20A) SEP-10A
Charger Cradle SBH-22 Earphone SEP-11A
Cigarette Lighter DC/DC Converter SDD-12 Li-Ion Battery Pack (7.4 V, 1,950 mAh) SBR-25LI
Helical Antenna SRA-20Aø Li-Ion Battery Pack (7.4 V, 2,500 mAh) SBR-26LI
Headset Adapter Cable SCU-42 AC Adapter SAD-26
Belt Clip SHB-18 Charger Cradle SBH-22
Ferrite Core L9190192 Cigarette Lighter DC/DC Converter SDD-12
Operating Manual Helical Antenna SRA-20A
Warranty Card Belt Clip SHB-18
Headset Adapter Cable SCU-42
ø Antenna gain: 2.15 dBi
USB Programming Cable SCU-37
Impedance: 50 ohms

Availability of accessories may vary. Some accesso-

ries are supplied as standard per local requirements,
while others may be unavailable in some regions.
Consult your YAESU Dealer for details regarding
these and any newly available options.
Connection of any non-YAESU-approved accessory,
should it cause damage, may void the Limited War-
ranty for the FTA-250L.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 5

 Before You Begin
Antenna Installation Installing the Battery Pack
Grasp the base of the antenna 1. I n s e r t t h e b a t t e r y
f i r m l y, a n d e x e r t a m o d e r a t e pack into the battery
“pinching” pressure on the base compartment on
while pressing the antenna onto the the back of the
transceiver antenna connector. transceiver
2. Push the battery in
When installing the supplied
until the battery latch
antenna, never hold the upper
on the lower back side of the transceiver clicks
part of the antenna while
securely
screwing it onto the mating
connector on the transceiver. Caution
Never transmit without having There is risk of explosion if the battery is replaced with an
an antenna connected. incorrect type.
Belt Clip Installation Dispose of used batteries according to the instructions.
Attach the belt clip on the back of transceiver using the
Removing the Battery Pack
supplied screws (two).
1. While sliding the latch
in the direction of the
arrow, as shown in the
illustration, slide the
battery pack downward
and out of the transceiver.

6 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 Charging the Battery Pack
● A fully discharged SBR-25LI Battery Pack will be Charging with external power cable
charged completely in about 3.5 hours. You can also charge (trickle charge) with the supplied
* Depending on the condition of the battery pack, external power adapter with cigar plug SDD-12.
charging time may be longer.
● Turn the transceiver OFF, and place it in the SBH-
22 Charging Cradle.
● The SBH-22 LED lights in red and charging starts. SDD-12
Cigarette Lighter DC/DC
● Charging is completed when the SBH-22 LED lights
Converter (12 to 24 Volts).
in green.
As close
Charge the battery pack in a place where the as possible
ambient temperature is +41 °F to +95 °F (+5 °C
to +35 °C).
Ferrite Core
AC Adapter Wind the cable one turn,
then snap two halves.

AC line outlet
Low Battery Indication
When the battery voltage is too low for reliable
operation, the “ ” icon will blink on the LCD display.

Charger Cradle

DC IN jack

FTA-250L Operating Manual 7

 Quick Guide
Store frequencies to memory
Tune to the frequency à Press and hold the [ENT]
key à Press the [GROUP] key to select the Group à
Press the [DWN] or [UP] key to select the Channel à
Press and hold the [ENT] key à Press and hold the
PTT switch [ENT] key again.
Recall a memory channel
Flip-Flop key F
Press the [GROUP] key à Press the [GROUP] key to
GROUP key MAIN/SET key select the Group à Press the [DWN] or [UP] key to
UP key select the Channel
DWN key
FUNC key ENT key
Recall six frequently used functions
Numeric keys Each time the [FUNC] key is presses; a function call
BACK key 121.5 key screen is displayed.
Return to previous operating frequencies or
Enter the COMM, MEMORY and WX modes memory channels
Press the [MAIN/SET] key, and then press one of the Each time the [Flip-Flop] (▲/▼) key on the side is
following keys: pressed, up to 9 previous operating frequencies and
[DWN] key à COMM ( ) mode memory channels may be recalled in order.
[GROUP] key à MEMORY ( ) mode Call the emergency communication
[UP] key à WX ( ) mode frequency (121.5 MHz)
Holding down the [121.5] key will produce four beeps
Adjust frequency and enter the emergency frequency mode.
● Press the [DWN] or [UP] key. To cancel the emergency mode, press the [BACK]
● Enter the frequency with the numeric keys. key, then press the [DWN]( ) key.

8 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 Controls & Connectors (Top / Front Panel)
À Antenna Jack (BNC)
Á LOCK Key
Press and hold to turn the lock function ON/OFF.
 PWR/VOL Knob
 Power ON/OFF
    Volume adjustment
à Loudspeaker
Ä Microphone
Å TX indicator
Lights red during transmission.
Æ LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
Displays frequency and transceiver status.


 
F

FTA-250L Operating Manual 9

 Controls & Connectors (Left / Right Side)
transceiver operation to a more recently saved
operating frequency or memory channel.
Press and hold the two keys at the same time to
erase the stored information.
 MIC/SP Jack
  The optional SSM-20A Speaker/Microphone or
the supplied SCU-42 Headset Adapter Cable may
be connected to this jack.
  Ã EXT/DC Jack
The SDD-12 Cigarette Lighter DC/DC Converter
may be connected to this jack.

À PTT (Push To Talk) Switch

Á Flip-Flop (▲/▼) key
The FTA-250L automatically memorizes up to 9
operating frequencies that may be recalled for
later use.
Each press of the lower [▲/▼] key will change
the transceiver operation to an earlier saved
operating frequency or memory channel. Each
press of the upper [▲/▼] key will change the
10 FTA-250L Operating Manual
 Operation
Use the [MAIN/SETUP] key to select one of the three
operating modes. (COMM) mode
1. Press the [ MAIN/SET ]
Set the desired frequency and operate.
key.

(MEMORY) mode
2. P r e s s t h e k e y t h a t The 250 memory channels can register frequently
selects the desired used frequencies, which can be recalled for
operating mode. convenient operating.

(WX) mode
[DWN] key à COMM ( ) mode The FTA-250L can receive 10 VHF weather channels
[GROUP] key à MEMORY ( ) mode to assist with flight planning.

[UP] key à WX ( ) mode

FTA-250L Operating Manual 11

 Emblem lights while the dual watch function is operating.
(COMM) mode

Displays the
operating frequency.

(MEMORY) mode Group number

Displays the memory channel group number.
Channel in use
Channel number
Displays the memory channel number. Channel not in use

Memory scan will scan only the channels on which this icon is displayed.

Emblem lights while the dual watch function is operating.

Memory tag display
Displays the name assigned to the memory channel.
If no name is assigned, the memory channel frequency is
displayed.
Displays the memory channel frequency.

(WX) mode Scans only the weather channels on which this icon is displayed.

Emblem lights while the dual watch

function is operating.

Channel Number

Display frequency.

12 FTA-250L Operating Manual

Using comm mode Using memory mode
Adjusting the frequency How to enter memory channels
 Press the [DWN] or [UP] Each memory channel can be given a name of up to
key to adjust the fre- 7 characters.
quency. The memories can be divided into 9 groups (1 to 9).
Memory channels can be categorized and managed
as necessary.
1. In COMM mode, turn to
 Use the numeric keypad
the frequency to be writ-
to enter the frequency.
ten to memory.

2. Press and hold the [ENT]

key.
For example, to set 134.35 MHz, The group number and
unused vacant channel
press [1] à [3] à [4] à [3] à [5]. number flashes.
To set 118.275 MHz, it is not necessary to enter the
final “5” in the frequency as below: To change the group number, press the [GROUP]
[1] à [1] à [8] à [2] à [7]. key.
To change the channel number, press the [DWN]
To set 120.000 MHz, press and hold the “2” key but-
or [UP] key.
ton, it is not necessary to enter the “0”s;
[1] à press and hold [2].

zzThe frequency input may be canceled by pressing the

PTT switch before completing the entry.
zzRegister frequently used frequencies into the memory
channels. The memory channel may be easily recalled
for later use. (page 14).

FTA-250L Operating Manual 13

 The channel in use is black, and the unused channels Recalling the Memories
are white.
1. Press the [ MAIN/SET ]
Channel in use Unassigned Channel key.

2. Press the [GROUP]( )

key.
3. Press and hold the [ENT] key. The last tuned memory
(When not entering a nametag, go to step 7) channel will be received.
4. Select and enter the nametag characters with the
[DWN] / [UP] keys or the numeric keypad.
zzEach time the [DWN] or [UP] key is pressed, the Alternately, the last used memory group may be recalled
characters change as follows: by pressing the [GROUP] key without performing
 0 to 9  A to Z  symbol  0 to 9  operations 1 and 2 above.
zzExample: Each time the [2] key is pressed the 3. Press the [GROUP] key to select a memory group.
characters change as follows: 4. Press the [DWN] or [UP] key to select a memory
2àAàBàCà2à channel in the group.
5. Press the [ENT] key to move to the right digit. Or press the numeric keypad to enter the memory
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 to complete the nametag. channel number.
7. Press and hold the [ENT] key. For example, to recall memory channel #005,
Frequency and name are registered and operation press [0] à [0] à [5].
is returned to the normal operation screen.
zzOnly the memories registered in the current memory
group may be selected.
zzTo switch to another memory group, press the
[GROUP] key.

14 FTA-250L Operating Manual

Deleting memory channels Reception of Weather Channel Broadcasts
1. Select the memory channel to be erased. - Weather Channels for USA/ Canada only -
2. Press and hold the [ENT] key. 1. Weather channel can
3. Press the [ UP ]( ) selected from the pre-
key. programmed list, with
the [DWN] or [UP] key.

Weather channels can also be recalled by entering

frequencies from the keyboard.
To delete the memory channel à Press the WX01: 162.550 MHz WX06: 162.500 MHz
[GROUP]( ) key. WX02: 162.400 MHz WX07: 162.525 MHz
To cancel without erasing the memory à Press WX03: 162.475 MHz WX08: 161.650 MHz
WX04: 162.425 MHz WX09: 161.775 MHz
the PTT switch.
WX05: 162.450 MHz WX10: 163.275 MHz

Weather alert reception

In the event of extreme weather disturbances, such
as storms and hurricanes, the NOAA ( National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ) sends a
weather alert accompanied by a 1050 Hz alarm tone
and subsequent weather report on one of the NOAA
weather channels.

To enable or disable the auto alarm function when

receiving the weather alert signal, change the setting in
the COMM SETUP menu. See page 24 for details.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 15

Function feature The six default functions and the displayed Icons are
Six frequently used functions may be accessed with a described below:
simple operation: SQL
1. Press the [FUNC] key. Setting the squelch level (page 22).
Pressing the [FUNC ] key
will alternately display the KEY BEEP
six functions that are set Setting the loudness of key beeps.
for the function keys.
SCAN
The following functions are set as default from the Scan function searches for activate signals
factory:
on the scanned frequencies or scanned
• SCAN • DUAL WATCH • SQL
• KEY BEEP • NOISE • DIM/DISP memory channels.
2. Pressing the key under the SCAN MEM
desired function icon will Setting whether or not to scan as a memory
activate the function. scan (page 19).
The figure on the right DIM/DISP
illustrates setting the SQL Setting the level of the display and key
level. lighting when operating the transceiver:
DIM: Lighting continues at the lowest
Illumination, even when the keys
are operated.
DISP: k e y s a n d d i s p l a y i l l u m i n a t e
according to the Setup Mode
“BACKLIT” setting.

16 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 RX NOISE Program the function assigned to the function key
The noise cancellation function reduces To change a function to be recalled with the [FUNC]
the receiver background noise that can be key.
heard during signal reception (page 24). 1. Press and hold the [MAIN/SET] key à [GROUP]
DUAL WATCH ( ) à Press the [DWN](q) to select “KEY AS-
Dual watch function activate. SIGNMENT” à [GROUP]( ).

Periodically checks the preset (PRIORITY-

CH) frequency, and receives any active
signals on the PRIORITY-CH (page 20).
2. Press the [ DWN ]( q ) key or [ UP ]( p ) key, to
NONE select the function to be changed, then press the
-
No Function is assigned. [GROUP]( ) key.
3. Press the [DWN](q) key or [UP](p) key, to select
the function you want to register newly, then press
the [GROUP]( ) key.
4. Press the PTT switch to return to the normal
operation screen.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 17

Scanning Operation When weather alert function is ON, scan speed is
When in COMM mode ( ) or MEMORY mode ( ), delayed because scanning also monitors the last used
weather channel for the emergency alert signal. Weather
scanning searches for a frequency or memory chan-
alert function is OFF in the factory default.
nel that is receiving a signal.
1. P r e s s a n d h o l d t h e Example: When the last weather channel is 162.400
[ DWN ] or [ UP ] key to MHz (WX02), and the frequency at which
start scanning. scanning is started is 118.000 MHz.
118.000 à 162.400 à 118.025 à
à 162.400 à 118.050 à 162.400 ...

zzPress and hold the [DWN] key à Scan to lower The frequency of the weather channel is not displayed
frequencies. during scanning.
Press and hold the [UP] key à Scan to higher
frequencies
zzWhen shipped from the factory, scanning in the
memory mode will scan only the current group, but
scanning can be reset to scan the memory channels
registered in all groups. For details, refer to “MEMORY
SCAN TYPE” on page 24.
zzScanning may also be started by pressing the [FUNC]
key, and then pressing the [DWN]( ) key.
zzScanning will stop temporarily when a signal is
received, and the frequency display flashes.
2. To stop scanning, press any key on the keypad.

18 FTA-250L Operating Manual

Memory Scan Skip Maintenance of the Memory
During memory scanning, you can skip memory The group, channel number, and nametag of the
channels you do not want to scan. registered memory channel may be changed.
1. [MAIN/SET] à [GROUP] 1. Recall the memory chan-
( ) à Press the [DWN] nel to be changed.
/ [ UP ] key to recall the [MAIN/SET] à [GROUP]
memory channel you want ( ) à [DWN]/[UP]
to skip.

2. Press and hold the [ENT]

key.
3. Press the [GROUP]( ) 2. Press and hold the [ENT]
key.
key.

4. Press the [DWN] (q ) or [UP] (p ) key to select

3. Press the [DWN]( ) key.
“OFF”.
4. The group number and the channel number will
5. Press and hold the [ENT] key.
blink.
The change contents are registered, and the
changed memory channel is evaluated.

“ ” is not displayed à Scanning will be skipped

“ ” is displayed à Scanning is not skipped
To change the group number, press the [GROUP]
key.
To change the channel number, press the [DWN]
or [UP] key.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 19

 The channel in use is black and the unused channels Dual Watch feature
are white. The previously specified PRIORITY-CH frequency is
Channel in use Unassigned Channel periodically checked for activity, and a signal on the
channel is received.
Setting Priority Channel
1. Press and hold the [MAIN/
SET] key.
5. Press and hold the [ENT] key.
6. Change the memory nametag.
(If the nametag is not changed, à Go to step 9)
Select the characters with the [DWN] / [UP] key or 2. Press the [ DWN ]( )
the numeric keypad. key.
zzEach time the [DWN] or [UP] key is pressed, the
characters change as follows:
 0 to 9  A to Z  symbol  0 to 9 
zzExample: Each time you press the [2] key, the letters 3. Press the [ DWN ]( ▼ ) key to select “PRIORITY
change as follows.
CH”.
2àAàBàCà2à
4. Press the [GROUP] ( ) key.
7. Press the [ENT] key to move to the right digit. 5. Enter the frequency you want to check on a
8. Repeat steps 6 to 7 to complete the nametag. regular basis.
9. Press and hold the [ENT] key. 6. Press and hold the [ENT] key.
Changes are registered and the changed memory The Priority Channel frequency is set, and the
channel is displayed. display returns to the setup screen.
7. Press the PTT switch to return to the normal
operation screen.

20 FTA-250L Operating Manual

Starting the dual watch Accessing the 121.5 MHz Emergency Frequency
1. Set to the frequency to be constantly received. Access the emergency frequency (121.500 MHz).
2. Press the [ FUNC ] key, 1. Hold down the [121.5]
then press the [ GROUP ] key, four beeps will sound
( ) key will activate the and the emergency fre-
dual watch. quency will be displayed.

2. To cancel the emergency

mode, press the [ BACK ]
key, and then press the
zzWhen there is a signal on PRIORITY CH, the display [DWN] ( ) key.
of frequency flashes, and the signal of PRIORITY CH
is received.
zzYou can also transmit on the PRIORITY CH.
zzWhen the signal on the PRIORITY CH drops out, the
dual watch resumes.
3. Press the [FUNC] key, and then press the [GROUP]
( ) key to stop the dual watch function and re-
turn to the operation before starting dual watch.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 21

Adjusting the squelch Key Lock
1. P r e s s t h e [ F U N C ] k e y 1. Press and hold the LOCK
then press the [ UP ]( ) key on the top of the
key. transceiver, “KEY LOCK”
will be displayed for about
2 seconds on the display
and the front keys will lock.

The PTT switch, PWR/VOL knob, 121.5 key, and LOCK

2. Press the [DWN] or [UP] key cannot be locked.
key to adjust to a squelch
2. To cancel the lock, press and hold the LOCK key
level (OFF to 15) at which
until “UNLOCK” appears on the display.
the background noise is
muted. Previous Frequency and Memory Recall Feature
3. Press the [ ENT ] key to Up to nine last used frequencies and memory
save the squelch setting channels are memorized in order. The nine channels
and return to normal op- can be easily recalled.
eration.
Changing the frequency or memory channel will
automatically be memorized. When the number stored
exceeds 9, the oldest information will be deleted.

1. Pressing the [ ▲ ] or [ ▼ ] key on the side of the

transceiver will recall the memorized frequencies
in order.

Press hold the [▲] and [▼] keys at the same time,
to delete the memorized frequencies and memory
channels.

22 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 Advanced Operation
Enter setup mode 4. Press the [ DWN ]( ▼ ) or
1. Press and hold the [MAIN/ [UP](▲) key to change the
SET] key. setting.

5. Press the [GROUP]( )

2. Press any of the [ DWN ] key to confirm the setting.
( ) , [ GROUP ]( ),
[UP]( ) keys.

6. P r e s s t h e P T T s w i t c h
to return to the normal
For details, refer to the table on the next page.
operation screen.
: Make communication settings

: Make settings related to the operation of the

radio
: Display firmware version
3. Press the [ DWN ]( ▼ ) or
[UP](▲) key to select the
item to be set, and then To return to the previous screen, press the [BACK] key
press the [GROUP]( ) to end the operation.
key.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 23

Summary of the SETUP Menu
(COMM SETUP)
Item Description Selectable options Default Value
EMERGENCY CALL Turn the emergency call ON/OFF ON / OFF ON
Frequency setting to monitor regularly with the dual
PRIORITY CH - -
watch function.
Automatic Noise Limiter function to reduce impulse
ANL ON / OFF OFF
noise such as from the engine ignition system.
Reduces background noise during transmission /
TX MODE: ON/OFF TX MODE : OFF
NOISE CANCEL reception. It can be set individually for transmit and
RX MODE: OFF / LEVEL1 - LEVEL4 RX MODE : OFF
receive.
Sounds a “weather alert” Alarm, and displays a noti-
WEATHER ALERT fication on receipt of a signal including a1050Hz tone ON / OFF OFF
from NOAA.
Turning ON/OFF the function to stop scanning by
PTT SCAN STOP ON / OFF ON
pressing the PTT switch during scanning
Sets the scanning resume time after scan is tempo-
SCAN RESUME 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 SEC 3 SEC
rally stopped by a received signal.
BUSY STOP: Resume scanning only after
the received signal disap-
pears
5 SEC STOP: Resume scanning after hold-
Sets the condition of the scan restart after scan is
SCAN STOP TYPE ing on the received signal for BUSY STOP
temporally stopped by a received signal.
5 seconds
10 SEC STOP: Resume scanning after hold-
ing on the received signal for
10 seconds
GROUP: Scan only the channels in the current
Memory channel scan setting to scan only the chan-
memory group.
MEMORY SCAN TYPE nels in the current group, or to scan all channels of GROUP
ALL: Scan memory channels of all the
all the groups.
groups
Setting the frequency step for tuning
FREQ STEP 25 kHz / 8.33 kHz 25 kHz
(8.33 kHz; Europe only)
“Time Out Timer”, Forcibly stops transmission after
TX TOT 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 MIN 5 MIN
continuously transmitting for the selected time.

24 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 INTERNAL: When using microphone of
Selection of microphone to be used with the PTT transceiver.
MIC SELECT INTERNAL
switch of the radio unit. EXTERNAL: When using an external micro-
phone such as a headset
Adjusting the volume of your voice that you can hear
SIDE TONE OFF / LV1 - LV3 / MAX OFF
from the headset when using the headset.
NORMAL: Output received voice as it is
LO CUT: Output reception sound cut
low frequency
AF PITCH CONT Tone quality adjustment of received sound. HI CUT: Output received voice cut high NORMAL
frequency
HI & LO CUT: Output reception sound cut
low and high range
Turning ON/OFF the function to switch transmission
VOX / reception by voice without using the PTT switch ON / OFF OFF
while using the headset.
VOX function Sensitivity setting to talk to the micro-
VOX LEVEL MIN / LV1 / LV2 / LV3 / MAX LV2
phone to send state when operating.
Setting of the time until stopping talking and returning
VOX DELAY 0.5 / 1.0 / 1.5 / 2.0 / 3.0 SEC 1.5 SEC
to receiving state when VOX function is in operation.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 25

 (CONFIG)
Item Description Selectable options Default Value
KEY BEEP Volume setting of the beep sound that sounds when
OFF / 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 3
the key is pressed.
BATTERY SAVE The setting of the battery save function that sup- OFF: Disables this function.
presses the consumption of the battery when the 50 %: Sleeps for 100 ms after 100 ms awake
signal is not received. 70 %: Sleeps for 250 ms after 100 ms awake 50 %
80 %: Sleeps for 450 ms after 100 ms awake
90 %: Sleeps for 900 ms after 100 ms awake
KEY ASSIGNMENT You can change the function to be called with the 1 : SCAN
[FUNC] key. 2 : DUAL WATCH
SQL / KEY BEEP / SCAN / SCAN MEM /
For details, please refer to “Program the function DIM/DISP / RX NOISE / DUAL WATCH / 3 : SQL
assigned to the function key” on page 17. 4 : KEY BEEP
NONE
5 : RX NOISE
6 : DIM/DISP
PTT LOCK Turning ON/OFF the function to lock the PTT switch
ON / OFF OFF
so that transmission can not be performed.
BACKLIT Display and key lighting ON/OFF. ON / OFF ON
BACKLIT TIMER Setting of lighting time of display and key lighting. OFF: No lighting at any time
CONTINUOUS: Lights at all time
5/10/30/60/120/300 (sec):
Lights for selected time when
any key is pressed. EXT PO/KEY
EXT PO/KEY: Lights for 5 seconds only
when any key is pressed, or
lights at all time when the
power is supplied through the
EXT DC jack.
CONTRAST Display contrast setting LV01 - LV30 LV15

26 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 (ABOUT)
Item Description Selectable options Default Value
- Confirming the version of the software - -

FTA-250L Operating Manual 27

 Resetting the Transceiver Headset Connection
To reset all the settings and memory contents of this An optional headset may be connected using the
transceiver to their initial values (factory default). supplied SCU-42 Headset Adapter Cable.
Resetting the transceiver will clear all memories. 1. Remove the two screws and cover of the MIC/SP
Please make a note of the memories (memory channel jack located on the right side of the transceiver.
settings, etc.) before resetting. 2. Insert the plug of the SCU-42 to the MIC/SP jack.
1. Turn off the transceiver. 3. Fix the plug with two screws attached to the SCU-
42.
2. P r e s s a n d h o l d t h e
[ MAIN/SET ] and [ ENT ] 4. Insert the plugs of the headset to the sockets of
the SCU-42.
keys while turning the
transceiver ON.
Headset
(not supplied)
3. Reset is complete when the sound “beeps” and
the power turns on.

SCU-42
Speaker

Microphone

PTT switch
(not supplied)

Please purchasing an aftermarket PTT switch.

28 FTA-250L Operating Manual

Troubleshooting For Headset Connection
Question Answer
When connecting the SCU-42 headset adapter cable This happens when the plug on the SCU-42 headset adapter cable is not properly
between the radio and a headset, the radio cannot be inserted into the MIC/SP jack. To make proper contact within the radio, the plug
operated. must be pushed all the way into the MIC/SP jack and be fixed with the two screws.

Can I purchase the optional PTT Switch from Yaesu? Contact your Aviation dealer for details regarding purchasing an aftermarket Push-
To-Talk switch.

Will my headset work with this radio? The SCU-42 headset adapter cable is made to operate with most aviation head-
sets; however to be certain, check with the headset manufacturer using the wiring
shown below. Also, confirm the connections and connector sizes are correct.

Headset specification requirements for SCU-42

Earphone (speaker) impedance: 8 Ω or above
Microphone impedance: 150 Ω ±20%
PTT pressed: Ground
PTT not pressed: Open

3.5mm plug

Speaker
PTT
Microphone
Ground Speaker
PJ-055 accepts 0.25” (6.3 mm) phone plug
Microphone
PJ-068 accepts 0.206” (5.2 mm) phone plug
PTT
SCU-42 accepts 0.138” (3.5 mm) phone plug

FTA-250L Operating Manual 29

 Specifications
General
Frequency Range: TX: 118.000 to 136.975 MHz
RX: 118.000 to 136.975 MHz
161.650 to 163.275 MHz (Weather Channels; USA/Canada only)
Channel Spacing: 25 kHz/8.33 kHz (Europe only)
Emission Type: TX: AM
RX: AM & FM (FM: for receiving the Weather Channels)
Supply Voltage: 6.0 to 9.5 VDC (Battery Terminal)
9.0 to 10.5 VDC (EXT DC JACK with Charging)
Current Consumption (approx.): 300 µA (power off),
70 mA (battery saver on, saver ratio 50%)
90 mA (squelch on), 300 mA (receive), 900 mA (transmit 1.5 W Carrier)
Temperature Range: +14 ºF to + 140 ºF (–10 ºC to +60 ºC)
Case Size (W x H x D): 2.1 x 4.1 x 1.2 inches (52 x 105 x 30 mm) with SBR-25LI
Weight (approx.): 10.6 oz (300 g) with SBR-25LI, antenna and belt clip
Receiver
Circuit Type: Double-conversion superheterodyne
IFs: 47.25 MHz & 450 kHz
Sensitivity: 0.8 µV typ (for 6 dB S/N with 1 kHz, 30 % modulation)
Selectivity: Better than 8 kHz/–6 dB (25 kHz step)
Better than 2.8 kHz/–6 dB (8.33 kHz step)
Adjacent CH. Selectivity: Less than 25 kHz/–60 dB (25 kHz step)
Less than 8.3 kHz/–60 dB (8.33 kHz step)
AF Output (@7.4 V): 0.7 W @ 16 Ohms, 10 % THD
Transmitter
Power Output (@ 7.4 V): 5.0 W (PEP), 1.5 W (Carrier Power)
Frequency Stability: Better than ±1 ppm (+14 ºF to + 140 ºF [–10 ºC to +60 ºC])
Modulation System: Low Level Amplitude Modulation
Spurious Emission: >70 dB below carrier
Int. Microphone Type: Condenser
Ext Mic. Impedance: 150 Ohms
The fully-charged battery lasts for 16 hours on the transceiver under the conditions below:
Operation ratio ... TX:RX:Standby = 5:5:90 (sec)
Power Output ..... 5 W Specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

30 FTA-250L Operating Manual

 This device complies with Industry Canada’s license-exempt RSSs. 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.

Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain ap-
proved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should
be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.
Conformément à la réglementation d’Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une antenne d’un type et d’un
gain maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l’émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélec-
trique à l’intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type d’antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée quiva-
lente (p.i.r.e.) ne dépassepas l’intensité nécessaire à l’établissement d’une communication satisfaisante.

This radio transmitter (identify the device by certification number, or model number if Category II) has been approved by Industry Canada
to operate with the antenna types listed below with the maximum permissible gain and required antenna impedance for each antenna
type indicated. Antenna types not included in this list, having a gain greater than the maximum gain indicated for that type, are strictly
prohibited for use with this device.
Le présent émetteur radio (identifier le dispositif par son numéro de certification ou son numéro de modèle s’il fait partie du matériel de
catégorie I) a été approuvé par Industrie Canada pour fonctionner avec les types d’antenne énumérés ci-dessous et ayant un gain ad-
missible maximal et l’impédance requise pour chaque type d’antenne. Les types d’antenne non inclus dans cette liste, ou dont le gain est
supérieur au gain maximal indiqué, sont strictement interdits pour l’exploitation de l’émetteur.

Part 15.21: Changes or modifications to this device not expressly approved by YAESU MUSEN could void the user’s authorization to op-
erate this device.

FTA-250L Operating Manual 31

 EU Declaration of Conformity UKCA Declaration of Conformity
We, Yaesu Musen Co. Ltd of Tokyo, Japan, hereby declare that We, Yaesu Musen Co. Ltd of Tokyo, Japan declare our sole
this radio equipment FTA-250 is in full compliance with EU Radio responsibility that this equipment complies with essential
Equipment Directive 2014/53/EU. The full text of the Declaration of requirements of the Radio Equipment Regulations 2017, Electrical
Conformity for this product is available to view at http://www.yaesu. Equipment (Safety Regulations 2016), Electromagnetic Compliance
com/jp/red Regulations 2016 and Restrictions of the use of Certain Hazardous
Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations
2012 as appropriate.
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
management authority
AT BE BG CY CZ DE
for licensing conditions DK ES EE FI FR EL
applicable to this HR HU IE IT LT LU
LV MT NL PL PT RO
equipment. 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.

32 FTA-250L Operating Manual

Copyright 2024
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.

Omori Bellport Building D-3F
6-26-3 Minami-Oi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 140-0013, Japan
YAESU USA 2404o-KS
6125 Phyllis Drive, Cypress, CA 90630, U.S.A. Printed in Japan
YAESU UK
Unit 4, Concorde Park, Concorde Way, Segensworth North,
Fareham, Hampshire PO15 5FG, United Kingdom