Yaesu FTM-500DE

Technical description FTM-500DE

This is mobile radio: the FTM-500DE from Yaesu offers FM, APRS and Digital Voice (C4FM) with very simple operation. The colour display (2.4") shows both bands simultaneously, the Bluetooth unit ensures stress-free operation while driving (Hands Free).

The Yaesu FTM-500DE mobile transceiver offers true dual-band operation, i.e. operation with two active receivers simultaneously. It is also possible to receive 2 x VHF or 2 x UHF (V/U, V/V, U/U), with both analogue and digital channels! 1000 memories help to organise the most popular frequencies and always have them quickly at hand. The receiver operates continuously from 108 to 1000 MHz, allowing reception of aeronautical (AM) or marine (FM) radio as well.

The transmitter uses robust power amplifier modules with 50 W max. transmit power on each band. Of course, the transmitting power can also be reduced. A new feature is the use of two separate loudspeakers - one in the main unit, one in the remote display. This allows phase shifting as with the AESS system of the FT-710. The total 9 W AF power, together with the two-speaker AESS, provides a significant improvement in intelligibility, even in noisy environments.

To be able to use the usual navigation functions and location data in C4FM, the FTM-500DE has a built-in GPS receiver with 66 channels. An external GPS receiver can be connected as an option. This allows you to use the familiar functions such as displaying the direction and distance to the remote station, backtracking and much more.
Other functions known from C4FM technology, such as Digi Group ID and Digital Group Monitor, are also supported by the FTM-500DE. Of course, the FTM-500DE can also participate in the Wires-X system.

The control unit is decoupled from the main unit and can be operated remotely with the enclosed cable, but can also be mounted directly on the main unit. A new feature - in addition to the loudspeaker built into the control unit - is the possibility to tilt the display by up to 20°. This improves readability, especially when the unit is installed in a vehicle.

The scope of delivery includes power cable with fuses, DTMF microphone SSM-85 and a short connecting cable for control unit and main unit. A longer cable (control unit/main unit) is optionally available.

Application description FTM-500DE

The FTM-500DE offers VHF and UHF mobile radio at the highest performance level: optionally analogue in FM or digital in C4FM, with up to 50 W transmit power, the transceiver can deliver more than others, and this without a separate power amplifier.

New is the use of the "AESS" Audio Enhancement System known from the FT-710. Two loudspeakers - one in the main unit, one in the control unit - are driven out of phase and thus ensure perfect intelligibility even in noisy environments.

Another special feature of the FTM-500DE is the integrated Bluetooth interface. This enables "hands-free" operation, i.e. the possibility of making radio calls without an annoying microphone cable and without constantly pressing the PTT button, as is now also prescribed for mobile operation when driving. Yaesu offers the SSM-BT10 as a headset.

Yet another new feature is the possibility to connect the microphone either to the side of the display or to the front of the main unit. This opens up new possibilities for cabling in the car.

The device offers an easy-to-read, colour 2.4 inch (approx. 6 cm), touch display. Here, both bands are displayed simultaneously, all operating parameters are easily readable. The display can be tilted to provide an optimal viewing angle.

With "System Fusion", Yaesu combines analogue and digital operation, between which it switches independently with AMS (Automatic Modes Switching, automatic switching between analogue FM and digital C4FM operation).
Tuning is possible in steps of 5, 6.25, 8.33, 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25, 50 or 100 kHz, providing a sensible solution for every country and band plan. All settings and also the stored frequencies can be saved on an optional microSD memory card with max. 32 GB. Voice recording and playback (voice recording, optional) also use the memory card.

At approx. 15 cm wide, 6 cm high and 6 cm deep, the control unit of the FTM-500DE is handy, yet large enough for the powerful 6W loudspeaker. The main unit is compact at 14 cm x 4 cm x 13 cm and fits everywhere. Both together weigh just 1.4 kg. The power supply of 13.8 V / 12 A is possible with a mains adapter, but also by battery mobile or on a fieldday or expedition.

Video by DL2YMR about the FTM-500DE

Video presentation with German narration, English subtitles available. Made by Michael, DL2YMR. Unboxing and first impressions of the FTM-500DE. Thanks, Michael!