60M is a really useful band that is not quite as demanding antenna and long wave propagation wise as 80M, but has excellent performance in the evening hours when the MUF has dropped below point where 40M can provide effective long range communications. The 5 ch band plan should not even be all that limiting, since a single 2.8kHz SSB channel can support several FT8 or JS8 connections -- but some total idiots have been trying to enforce a really STUPID interpretation of the rules to disallow this and the ARRL has been trying for some time to get clarification. Now the FCC has proposed new rules that would give a continuous 15KHz block of spectrum that would presumably give more flexibility for modes like FT8, but would take away some existing channel spectrum, and reduce power from 100W to only just about 9.1W ERP. So good job FCC! - first you draft rules that appear to disallow multiple FT8 carriers/channel in the 60M band where you would think that the spectrum efficiency this provides would be most beneficial (saying that 60M is mainly for channelized SSB and CW emergency communications) -- but NOW seem to be swinging 1000% the opposite way and propose to "fix" things with rules which are instead so stingy on power that pretty much ONLY FT8 QSO's will even be possible - while at the same time, JUST totally blowing off the current capabilities that amateurs have of being able to provide effective emergency SSB net communications on 60M at 100W. The ARRL has proposed instead a "best of both worlds" approach that would have the FCC adopt an expanded version of the 15KHz continuous spectrum plan, along with most of the existing channelized spectrum for shared use, while preserving the current 100W RF power limit (which is apparently what Canada did). So, depending on whether the FCC shows some common sense here, 60M is about to either get dramatically better, or dramatically worse, we'll see . . .
I liked the video. I did a firmware update on my FT-891 that made the 60 meter band available to me (I have a European FT-891, so maybe there is a difference). The radio does not have any 60 meter channels programmed, but then I have done a couple of factory resets. I did notice in VFO that TX functions continuously from about 5.351 Mhz up to about 5.366 Mhz. In Germany, at least, there are only a handful of frequencies and power outputs allowed on 60 meters. So programming these frequencies the way you describe is a good idea.
The 60m band in the USA is different. So yours won’t appear the same as mine. Yaesu assigns an R suffix to some of their HTs to indicate a USA version, but they haven’t done that with HF radios that I know of. 73, Doug
I’m glad the video helped. That’s why my channel exists. I hope to help everyone get more out of their radio, no matter which radio they have. 73 de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio One question I thought of? Do the pre programmed chanel's set the power level or do you have to throttle it back to 50 watts in the settings menu?
The power level setting is a global setting. I have a Yaesu FT-2980R 2 meter FM transceiver. It does store the power level with the memory. So I can understand why you might think that it might do that in the FT-891. But the HF radios usually have a global power setting for each mode. But we are no longer limited to 50W on 60 meters. That was the old standard. Some years ago, the FCC changed it to allow us 100W ERP. So if you are using a dipole, which is 0dBd, you can run a full 100W. Great question! 73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio Thank you. I can see that I need to download a new ARRL band plan. I always keep one next to the radios. The other night I went listening on 60 meters and was astounded at how good I was hearing people in California from Utah at 2300 hrs. I decided I would like to learn more about it before I would give it a try. Can't believe how we lost some of the I think 900mhz band that the government sold for a gazillion dollar's and everyone was so stingy on 60 meters. Again thanks.
Us SOTA activators consider 60 meters as our go-to band. It bridges the propagation gap when 40m is skipping over our chasers heads and 80m is falling short. We also like the 100W ERP limit. It makes the band more of an even playing field. During the day we get contacts from 60 to 700 miles. At night we get contacts out to 1500-2000 miles. 73, de N4HNH
Thanks for the video. I get the USB and CW mode memories for 60 meters and the FT-891 now, but that doesn't work with data modes that are using rig control like WSJT-X (FT8 mode). As soon as you try to transmit the rig control forces the FT-891 into the "DATA" mode so then the radio won't transmit. The only work around I've been able to find is disabling WSJT-X rig control and using the USB mode when operating on 60 meters. Am I missing something? KZ9V
USB mode is all data needs. I don’t personally use FT8 but my brother does. He runs WSJT-X with his FTdx5000 in USB mode. He bought an $8 sound card to use with his 5000. It cost him $8 to do FT8 on the 5000. He simply uses the mic input to modulate the USB signal. 73, de N4HNH
I am a new ham operator but have use of HF radio in my role as a radio operator. My question is: would the FT891 be the best backup transciever if the mars mod was applied? And yes i am allowed to TX outside amature bands.
I would use the FT-891 as a backup transceiver. It is compact, so it’s portable, yet it delivers 100W. I carry one in my backpack. I’ve used mine as a base station too. So, yes! I think FT-891 is a great little radio. It doesn’t have an internal antenna matching unit. If you need that, consider the FT-991A. With it, you also get 2m and 70cm bands. But of course it isn’t as portable as the FT-891. I use a resonant antenna with my FT-891. I use the 120W EFHW from www.NY4GEFHW.com. It is resonant on 10, 15, 20, and 40 meters, with the option to add links and extensions for resonant operation on 17, 30, 60, and 80 meters. 73, de N4HNH
Doug hope have a safe and prosperous new year. Can you do a video on how you monitor/use the 60 meter channels? I know you said it was a band that both amateurs and the government use. Is their certain times that we can see an increase in activities on those channels? Maybe explain the relationship between amateurs and government and how these channels are used?
@@n4hnhradio I did. I didn’t realize these channels were used for non-emergency use. What kind event might happen that the government would take control?
Hi Don, I'm uploading a video right now regarding our use of 60 meters. As far as the government's use, I haven't found any information pertaining to exactly which government agencies use 60 meters. I know that they can use from 5.005 to 5.450 MHz. But the space of our 5 channels is not to be used by the government unless they need it. For a while we had 5.368 MHz as a channel, but we were getting strong digital interference there, presumably from a government entity. The ARRL petitioned to swap 5.368 MHz for 5.358.5 MHz and it was done. That's why channel 3 is 5.358.5 MHz. I hope this helps. 73, Doug
There are 10 preprogrammed 60 meter memories. There are 5 for USB and 5 for CW. Those are the 10 we are allowed. Technically, it’s 5 frequencies and two modes. For CW, we transmit in the middle of the channel, which is the frequency in the display. For USB, we transmit 1.5kHz below the center. Yaesu radios will still show the center of the channel in the display but the suppressed carrier insertion point will be 1.5kHz below the center. 5.332 CW will be transmitting at 5.330.5 on the USB channel. Yaesu programmed it that way for us. They also programmed the 2.8kHz bandwidth limit. That’s why it is best to run the Yaesu transceivers without the MARS/CAP mod. If you are wondering how many memory storage slots are available for you to program in your favorites, I believe there are 100 slots. 73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio I should've been more detailed in my question, but you covered it in the second part. Also do the pre programmed frequencies count as part of the 100? I've looked at the Yaesu page and it doesn't seem very clear. Thanks for the quick response btw!
There are 5 memory groups available for you. Memory group 1 allows up to 19 entries. Memory groups 2 through 5 can hold up to 20 entries. That is a total of 99 user memories. Memory group 6 contains the lower and upper scan frequencies, which you can set as desired. Memory group 7 is for 60 meters. It already contains memories 501-510. 73, de N4HNH
Thanks for the trick with channel memory. But how to unlock 60m when 891 is controlled by a computer with FLRig or similar software and physically not accessible?
You cannot transmit 60m in VFO mode unless the transceiver has been modified. The MARS mod will open up the transmit range, but you have to be very careful not to violate your operating privileges and TX Bandwidth limit.
Just purchased an 891 with “Warranty Policy only valid in Japan” attached to box. Memory channels go 1-99, then P1L, P1U, P2L, P2U ….etc. up through P9U. Continued scrolling brings me to memory 01. Manual is in Japanese. I’ve yet to put this radio on the air but will be sure to watch band edges. What have I got here??
I’ve warned my viewers about buying from Japan. Their amateur bands aren’t exactly the same as the USA. If you MARS mod the radio, you will be able to fully utilize the US bands. But be very careful with the 60m band. You will need to precisely program those frequencies into memory positions. Watch my 3-part series about the 60-meter band.
@@n4hnhradio I’ve been a keen follower of your channel as owner of the great 101D as well. The radio was purchased on a prominent site that I’ve used for years. After multiple texts and extended phone conversation, I bought the radio. It’s origin was not disclosed, but I also failed to ask.
@@n4hnhradio I've been in radio since 1976. Yes it does and it's nice, No 1,500 watt stations blasting across the band . Thanks for a great video. De N7PSA
Great video. I have a 891 and was curious about the 60 meter operation. Thanks!
You’re very welcome! I’m glad you found the video helpful. I have a 3-part series all about the 60m band.
73, de N4HNH
60M is a really useful band that is not quite as demanding antenna and long wave propagation wise as 80M, but has excellent performance in the evening hours when the MUF has dropped below point where 40M can provide effective long range communications. The 5 ch band plan should not even be all that limiting, since a single 2.8kHz SSB channel can support several FT8 or JS8 connections -- but some total idiots have been trying to enforce a really STUPID interpretation of the rules to disallow this and the ARRL has been trying for some time to get clarification. Now the FCC has proposed new rules that would give a continuous 15KHz block of spectrum that would presumably give more flexibility for modes like FT8, but would take away some existing channel spectrum, and reduce power from 100W to only just about 9.1W ERP. So good job FCC! - first you draft rules that appear to disallow multiple FT8 carriers/channel in the 60M band where you would think that the spectrum efficiency this provides would be most beneficial (saying that 60M is mainly for channelized SSB and CW emergency communications) -- but NOW seem to be swinging 1000% the opposite way and propose to "fix" things with rules which are instead so stingy on power that pretty much ONLY FT8 QSO's will even be possible - while at the same time, JUST totally blowing off the current capabilities that amateurs have of being able to provide effective emergency SSB net communications on 60M at 100W. The ARRL has proposed instead a "best of both worlds" approach that would have the FCC adopt an expanded version of the 15KHz continuous spectrum plan, along with most of the existing channelized spectrum for shared use, while preserving the current 100W RF power limit (which is apparently what Canada did). So, depending on whether the FCC shows some common sense here, 60M is about to either get dramatically better, or dramatically worse, we'll see . . .
60m is indeed a fun band. It provides such great gap coverage. And it evens the playing field for those who don’t have a linear amplifier.
Thanks. I am awaiting delivery of that tuner today or tomorrow. Your video will save me some time. Good video that is succinct and to the point.
I’m glad you found the video helpful. The FC-50 is a nice touch-up tuner.
73, de N4HNH
I liked the video. I did a firmware update on my FT-891 that made the 60 meter band available to me (I have a European FT-891, so maybe there is a difference). The radio does not have any 60 meter channels programmed, but then I have done a couple of factory resets. I did notice in VFO that TX functions continuously from about 5.351 Mhz up to about 5.366 Mhz. In Germany, at least, there are only a handful of frequencies and power outputs allowed on 60 meters. So programming these frequencies the way you describe is a good idea.
The 60m band in the USA is different. So yours won’t appear the same as mine. Yaesu assigns an R suffix to some of their HTs to indicate a USA version, but they haven’t done that with HF radios that I know of. 73, Doug
Thank you for the video. I had not bumped my head on the Yaesu memory vs band. I learned something about my 891 on your video.
I’m glad the video helped. That’s why my channel exists. I hope to help everyone get more out of their radio, no matter which radio they have.
73 de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio One question I thought of? Do the pre programmed chanel's set the power level or do you have to throttle it back to 50 watts in the settings menu?
The power level setting is a global setting. I have a Yaesu FT-2980R 2 meter FM transceiver. It does store the power level with the memory. So I can understand why you might think that it might do that in the FT-891. But the HF radios usually have a global power setting for each mode. But we are no longer limited to 50W on 60 meters. That was the old standard. Some years ago, the FCC changed it to allow us 100W ERP. So if you are using a dipole, which is 0dBd, you can run a full 100W.
Great question! 73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio Thank you. I can see that I need to download a new ARRL band plan. I always keep one next to the radios. The other night I went listening on 60 meters and was astounded at how good I was hearing people in California from Utah at 2300 hrs. I decided I would like to learn more about it before I would give it a try. Can't believe how we lost some of the I think 900mhz band that the government sold for a gazillion dollar's and everyone was so stingy on 60 meters. Again thanks.
Us SOTA activators consider 60 meters as our go-to band. It bridges the propagation gap when 40m is skipping over our chasers heads and 80m is falling short. We also like the 100W ERP limit. It makes the band more of an even playing field. During the day we get contacts from 60 to 700 miles. At night we get contacts out to 1500-2000 miles.
73, de N4HNH
Great info! Always learning from you Doug. Happy New Year.
Glad to help! I hope 2021 is a great year for you! 73, N4HNH
Thanks for the video. I get the USB and CW mode memories for 60 meters and the FT-891 now, but that doesn't work with data modes that are using rig control like WSJT-X (FT8 mode). As soon as you try to transmit the rig control forces the FT-891 into the "DATA" mode so then the radio won't transmit. The only work around I've been able to find is disabling WSJT-X rig control and using the USB mode when operating on 60 meters. Am I missing something?
KZ9V
USB mode is all data needs. I don’t personally use FT8 but my brother does. He runs WSJT-X with his FTdx5000 in USB mode. He bought an $8 sound card to use with his 5000. It cost him $8 to do FT8 on the 5000. He simply uses the mic input to modulate the USB signal.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio Wow! Which Sound card did he use?!? Amazing!
I don't know the brand. He bought it at Micro Center. I'm going to try to schedule a video shoot with him showing how he set it up.
I am a new ham operator but have use of HF radio in my role as a radio operator. My question is: would the FT891 be the best backup transciever if the mars mod was applied? And yes i am allowed to TX outside amature bands.
I would use the FT-891 as a backup transceiver. It is compact, so it’s portable, yet it delivers 100W. I carry one in my backpack. I’ve used mine as a base station too. So, yes! I think FT-891 is a great little radio. It doesn’t have an internal antenna matching unit. If you need that, consider the FT-991A. With it, you also get 2m and 70cm bands. But of course it isn’t as portable as the FT-891. I use a resonant antenna with my FT-891. I use the 120W EFHW from www.NY4GEFHW.com. It is resonant on 10, 15, 20, and 40 meters, with the option to add links and extensions for resonant operation on 17, 30, 60, and 80 meters.
73, de N4HNH
Doug hope have a safe and prosperous new year. Can you do a video on how you monitor/use the 60 meter channels? I know you said it was a band that both amateurs and the government use. Is their certain times that we can see an increase in activities on those channels? Maybe explain the relationship between amateurs and government and how these channels are used?
Did you watch the 3-part series I did all about 60 meters?
@@n4hnhradio I did. I didn’t realize these channels were used for non-emergency use. What kind event might happen that the government would take control?
Hi Don,
I'm uploading a video right now regarding our use of 60 meters.
As far as the government's use, I haven't found any information pertaining to exactly which government agencies use 60 meters. I know that they can use from 5.005 to 5.450 MHz. But the space of our 5 channels is not to be used by the government unless they need it. For a while we had 5.368 MHz as a channel, but we were getting strong digital interference there, presumably from a government entity. The ARRL petitioned to swap 5.368 MHz for 5.358.5 MHz and it was done. That's why channel 3 is 5.358.5 MHz.
I hope this helps.
73, Doug
Good info, how many memory channels are there on the 891?
There are 10 preprogrammed 60 meter memories. There are 5 for USB and 5 for CW. Those are the 10 we are allowed.
Technically, it’s 5 frequencies and two modes. For CW, we transmit in the middle of the channel, which is the frequency in the display. For USB, we transmit 1.5kHz below the center. Yaesu radios will still show the center of the channel in the display but the suppressed carrier insertion point will be 1.5kHz below the center. 5.332 CW will be transmitting at 5.330.5 on the USB channel. Yaesu programmed it that way for us. They also programmed the 2.8kHz bandwidth limit. That’s why it is best to run the Yaesu transceivers without the MARS/CAP mod.
If you are wondering how many memory storage slots are available for you to program in your favorites, I believe there are 100 slots.
73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio I should've been more detailed in my question, but you covered it in the second part. Also do the pre programmed frequencies count as part of the 100? I've looked at the Yaesu page and it doesn't seem very clear. Thanks for the quick response btw!
There are 5 memory groups available for you. Memory group 1 allows up to 19 entries. Memory groups 2 through 5 can hold up to 20 entries. That is a total of 99 user memories. Memory group 6 contains the lower and upper scan frequencies, which you can set as desired. Memory group 7 is for 60 meters. It already contains memories 501-510.
73, de N4HNH
Thanks for the trick with channel memory. But how to unlock 60m when 891 is controlled by a computer with FLRig or similar software and physically not accessible?
You cannot transmit 60m in VFO mode unless the transceiver has been modified. The MARS mod will open up the transmit range, but you have to be very careful not to violate your operating privileges and TX Bandwidth limit.
@@n4hnhradio Thanks for clarification.
Just purchased an 891 with “Warranty Policy only valid in Japan” attached to box. Memory channels go 1-99, then P1L, P1U, P2L, P2U ….etc. up through P9U. Continued scrolling brings me to memory 01. Manual is in Japanese. I’ve yet to put this radio on the air but will be sure to watch band edges. What have I got here??
I’ve warned my viewers about buying from Japan. Their amateur bands aren’t exactly the same as the USA. If you MARS mod the radio, you will be able to fully utilize the US bands. But be very careful with the 60m band. You will need to precisely program those frequencies into memory positions. Watch my 3-part series about the 60-meter band.
@@n4hnhradio I’ve been a keen follower of your channel as owner of the great 101D as well. The radio was purchased on a prominent site that I’ve used for years. After multiple texts and extended phone conversation, I bought the radio. It’s origin was not disclosed, but I also failed to ask.
Thank you! I just got a contact.
60 meters is a fun band. I hope you continue to enjoy it. The 100W ERP maximum evens the playing field. 73, de N4HNH
@@n4hnhradio I've been in radio since 1976. Yes it does and it's nice, No 1,500 watt stations blasting across the band . Thanks for a great video. De N7PSA
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