Tuning Device for FT1000MP by PA3BWK
The Yaesu FT1000 transceivers have been proven to be very popular after
the introduction, it has found it’s way to many hams, also lots of
contesters are using these transceivers. But, unless they are great,
sometimes you could wish for an extra feature here or there.
The FT-1000 series don’t have the ability to simply tune up an amplifier
or external tuner from the simple touch on a button. The only option is
to buy the external keypad FH-1 that will consume operating space and
money of course. There are other options, you can switch to CW and then
key the transmitter, which is not convenient while working SSB or RTTY
etc. Contesters don’t have time to waste on these procedures; in some
contest programs there is a possibility to tune up if you remember the
right key combination. A single press on a button is still preferable
from an operator’s point of view. Well…. here’s the solution!
With the use of a few parts and little soldering skill you are able to
solve this problem!

You need a pushbutton type switch (measure if it really makes contact
when you activate it), solder two resistors in parallel and connect them
to a simple plug, that’s all there is! You can best use shielded wire
for the connection between the connector and the pushbutton, that will
prevent RF feedback into the transceiver.
After finishing connect it to the REMOTE jack on the rear panel.
To activate the switch you have to follow the next procedure:
Step 1: press and hold in [FAST] and then press [ENTER]
Step 2: Rotate the VRF/MEM knob to menu 7-9 and select the keyer
function.
Step 3: Rotate the VRF/MEM knob to menu 4-3, there you can choose the
maximum power you want to use during tuning, you can select these power
levels:
Hi: 100 Watt (or 200 Watt depending on model)
Lo-2: 25 Watt (or 50 Watt depending on model)
Lo-1: 10 Watt
The output during tuning can be adjusted with the RF PWR knob (within
the range you have chosen in the menu).
You can build it into a small cabinet or maybe combine it into a box
with another project. Don’t forget that you must not exceed the maximum
tuning time of your transceiver or amplifier, if you blow your finals
you are on your own…..
