Wow... In the process for studying for my general. Just picked up a Yaesu 891.... this is SO FAR BEYOND ME! lol. So much to learn. Man, I love this hobby!
Josh, good on you to help a fellow ham out. That is what this hobby is about. I also run digital with a FT891, but discovery learning for it up was not exactly user friendly, even after talking to the Yaesu rep. It is relatively simple once you break the code, but you do need to know those critical things like the bandwidth setting, ect.. After setup, the FT 891 really does a great job on both digital and voice.
Great video Josh. Been thinking about how to set up my 891 for FT8 for a while now and that is so much clearer than trying to understand what is in the manual.
I have the same setup with but no audio on transmit which was what you fixed as one of the last steps. Setting ALC on the screen and turning the signalink tx knob on tune does nothing. Odd. Good video. That’s my local HRO too. 😊Thanks.
Is the Signal Link essentially a sound card? Is the radio connected with the USB CAT cable to the radio; and also with a second cable going from USB to Signal Link and from Signal Link to the DIN on the radio. Essentially do I need a Signal Link to do digital modes? Perhaps dumb question because the video makes it look that way.
Thanks for the post. I am using a sabrent USB soundcard dongle with my FT 891. I can control my rig but get a red TEST PTT. I don't see any power out. I see my self sparsely on psk reporter. But can't make a contact.
@Ham Radio Crash Course I like how you adjusted the power output using the ALC & tune function with wsjtx, I can't figure out how to adjust the power output on SSB non-digital, any ideas? Thanks
Power output should be controlled on the radio. With the ft-891 hold the f button until the vertical menu is displayed and look for the ssb output. Adjust it there. You adjust the alc by reducing the computer volume or the wsjtx control.
Thanks 🙏 Josh, I needed this video. It’s like you read my mind. Picked up some new things on FT8 thanks 🙏 again for what you do. I will pass on the info and your link to your channel to my friends. De N1UFO/Gabe 73
Hi, I cannot clearly see how the Signallink is connected. I thought the FT891 USB provides no audio. So you connect mic and speaker to the Signallink? Thanks, Dietmar, KC3CVR
Just purchased an Ft891 today - GP has them for $553 - Excited to use it for FT8/FT4 - In a go box/field day scenario. Just curious, is there software out there for a raspberry pi that can work for this, cat control and logging ?
Just watched this for the first time because I ordered the 891 last night. Hilarious! #FT8Man Very informative too. Question: is the SignalLink necessary? I don't have one hand have been FT8-ing for a while now on my 991A without issue. If it's optional, what's the advantage?
Lee Harrell [KI5GCF] the 891s usb is cat control, but doesn’t carry audio. You use the interface to “convert” the 6 pin din cable into usb. So you need it
There are other options becides the SignaLink, I use the USBDigimode 3 from xxgcomms. It's basicly the same thing, it just doesn't have the level knobs on the front. It's like $75 shipped to the US.
I too used a SignaLink USB with my TS 2000 for portable ops (POTA). But I soon realized that it was too much equipment, hence,I’m the proud owner of an FT 891. While waiting for SignaLink to send me the appropriate radio cable and plug in module for the Yeasu, I tried a Sabrent USB audio device and it worked very well. Since I will use this unit portable and on battery I saw no issues with ac hum and also use lower power than many (25 watts). Could be a good alternative for those folks that might work portable with a battery.
hello friends I did the same video configuration and I get this problem when transmitting and the cat button is red. I use wsjt-x window 10 system Error Hamlib: Protocol error rig_get_mode(2204): freqMainB=0, modeMainB=, widthMainB=0 rig_get_mode: elapsed=55ms rig.c(2207):rig_get_mode return(-8) Protocol error rig_get_mode(2204): freqMainB=0, modeMainB=, widthMainB=0 rig_get_mode: elapsed=55ms rig_get_mode: elapsed=55ms mientras obteniendo modo actual
DigiMaster MiniProSC DATA Interface and is perfect for weak signal operation typical noise figure better than -93dB. Compare that to a typical SignaLink at just -71dB.
@@mikeh9446 I bought one and set it up yesterday. It's a PITA having to adjust settings to switch between FT8 and SSB within the FT891 every time though :(
Hi Josh, That was great. I like DigitalMan. Why limit yourself to just FT8. I'm almost there with FT8. Had to select hardware handshaking on my FT450 to get it to work. I'm also using the SignalInkUSB. Next is setting up where to log contacts. I just entered my first contest using N1MM+. Figured out how get it working about one hour before start of IARU contest this past weekend using NV9L UA-cam video. What would you suggest as a daily logging software, or how about the subject as your next HRCC? 73 WB3BJU
I use battery all the time with my FT 891. I recommend at least a 10 amp battery with some sort of portable solar panel to help things stay topped off. Standby power draw is around 1 amp, so you need some juice to keep things running in the long run.
Would have been sweet if they put a audio chip in the radio 🤦♂️ I have an FT-819 I use it for camping and run some FT-8 and not having the audio ship in it makes me have to lug more crap around. and they need to fixed the firmware problems people are complaining about.
Wow... In the process for studying for my general. Just picked up a Yaesu 891.... this is SO FAR BEYOND ME! lol. So much to learn. Man, I love this hobby!
Good on you for helping a newbie. The ft 891 can be a little daunting at first until you learn the menu tricks.
I worked Perth, Australia from the Midwest US, with 2 watts to an HF9V vertical on 30 meters 3 days ago. I was floored.
Josh, good on you to help a fellow ham out. That is what this hobby is about. I also run digital with a FT891, but discovery learning for it up was not exactly user friendly, even after talking to the Yaesu rep. It is relatively simple once you break the code, but you do need to know those critical things like the bandwidth setting, ect.. After setup, the FT 891 really does a great job on both digital and voice.
Great video Josh. Been thinking about how to set up my 891 for FT8 for a while now and that is so much clearer than trying to understand what is in the manual.
I am thankful for this, because I have an FT-891 and am considering the digirig to add digital to my POTA operations.
That was great! I liked this sort of hands on helping Q&A direct format. really cool.
Bit Man! Gets my vote.
Good on you for helping. Another digi convert :-)
Tip! Hit CLAR for instant exit out of Function menu . :)
NIce to know abut the filter. Just moved from a FT-857 and I did not know you had to set up the filters first.
Digiman, Dr. Digital, Dank Digital. This kind of brainstorming requires more beerz! 73, WB8AM
Nice job Josh , your a good friend for helping your buddy out!
Cool! Have this saved for when I’m going FT8 on my 891. Thanks Man!
I have the same setup with but no audio on transmit which was what you fixed as one of the last steps. Setting ALC on the screen and turning the signalink tx knob on tune does nothing. Odd. Good video. That’s my local HRO too. 😊Thanks.
My 891 was in data mode, not regular usb. Changed the setting in wsjt-x so all good not. Thanks for the video.
Great to have you back on the air. Good job on the repair! Mike N6IMY
At 2:00, is COM7 the FT-891 USB connection? It must be a Saturday, I hear N6NFA and N6VNI. N6NFA sold me my FT-891 today. Thanks in advance.
Is the Signal Link essentially a sound card? Is the radio connected with the USB CAT cable to the radio; and also with a second cable going from USB to Signal Link and from Signal Link to the DIN on the radio. Essentially do I need a Signal Link to do digital modes? Perhaps dumb question because the video makes it look that way.
Thanks for the post. I am using a sabrent USB soundcard dongle with my FT 891. I can control my rig but get a red TEST PTT. I don't see any power out. I see my self sparsely on psk reporter. But can't make a contact.
Better Yet.... DIGI MAN
Fun to watch and I learned something
hello friends what cable does the yaesu 891 need to work with the Tigertronics SLUSB4R?Do you have to change or make an internal jumper?
Wow. I need to know more about ft8. Can I do it on a 857d?
I'm trying WSJT-X on 14.074.000, but each time I TX, my FT-891 transmits on 14.073.500. Why does it jump down like that to TX? Thanks, CE4JDM
@Ham Radio Crash Course I like how you adjusted the power output using the ALC & tune function with wsjtx, I can't figure out how to adjust the power output on SSB non-digital, any ideas? Thanks
Power output should be controlled on the radio. With the ft-891 hold the f button until the vertical menu is displayed and look for the ssb output. Adjust it there.
You adjust the alc by reducing the computer volume or the wsjtx control.
DIGIDUDE - he abides on the airwaves
Well that's like, just your opinion man.
lol
How do you Adjust the PO and The Alc With a Raspberry pi and Digilink Nano?? I'm almost there but I cant make this adjustment!!
Bring down the volume on the usb interface on the pi.
Thanks 🙏 Josh, I needed this video. It’s like you read my mind. Picked up some new things on FT8 thanks 🙏 again for what you do. I will pass on the info and your link to your channel to my friends.
De N1UFO/Gabe
73
il n'y a pas besoin du Signalink usb ? je peux relier le ft 891 directement sur la prise jack sortie son du Pc ? merci
digi man, digital manster josh is the champion🎶🎵🎶
I know where to come for help! Nice vid... again.
Thanks!
Very well done!
good boy good teacher
I just bought ft891 new and it didnt come with a cable. Says in manual that you buy it separately
you know its just a box printer cable
Hi, I cannot clearly see how the Signallink is connected. I thought the FT891 USB provides no audio. So you connect mic and speaker to the Signallink?
Thanks, Dietmar, KC3CVR
Yes. Thorough the back of the radio via the din connector.
Which signal link to use for the ft 891?
Was the missing usb B to usb A cable a Yaesu brand cable?
how did you have AGC setup?
is there not an in line fuse on that Bioenno battery to the 891?
Digital Man!!!!!
NANANANANANANANANA BITMAN!
do you have to use a signalink with a FT 891 in order to do any digital modes?
No, you can use a usb sound card, or appropriate Y audio cable, but it’s does make it easy to dial it in.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse - when you say, "easy to dial it in"... are you just referring to the mic and volume knobs only.... or some other setting?
Digital Dude. Alliteration FTW!
Haha. I like it.
I don't think my 891 came with a USB cable. Will any USB a cable work
Nicely done. :)
Spain? Like, DUDE!!
Just purchased an Ft891 today - GP has them for $553 - Excited to use it for FT8/FT4 - In a go box/field day scenario. Just curious, is there software out there for a raspberry pi that can work for this, cat control and logging ?
Yep, check out the KM4ACK "Build-A-Pie" script.
Am I correct that being 100% duty cycle the ft-891 should not be run over about 20 watts on ft-8 ?
I never looked. That day we were running 10w. When I have ran winlink it runs at 50w
Used the same settings but my FT-891 is not outputting anything if in data mode, works only in SSB. Don't know why.
You have plugged into the back of the radio?
@@HamRadioCrashCourse Yes and also selected "Rear" as input.
Just watched this for the first time because I ordered the 891 last night. Hilarious! #FT8Man Very informative too. Question: is the SignalLink necessary? I don't have one hand have been FT8-ing for a while now on my 991A without issue. If it's optional, what's the advantage?
Lee Harrell [KI5GCF] the 891s usb is cat control, but doesn’t carry audio. You use the interface to “convert” the 6 pin din cable into usb. So you need it
There are other options becides the SignaLink, I use the USBDigimode 3 from xxgcomms. It's basicly the same thing, it just doesn't have the level knobs on the front. It's like $75 shipped to the US.
I too used a SignaLink USB with my TS 2000 for portable ops (POTA). But I soon realized that it was too much equipment, hence,I’m the proud owner of an FT 891. While waiting for SignaLink to send me the appropriate radio cable and plug in module for the Yeasu, I tried a Sabrent USB audio device and it worked very well. Since I will use this unit portable and on battery I saw no issues with ac hum and also use lower power than many (25 watts). Could be a good alternative for those folks that might work portable with a battery.
hello friends I did the same video configuration and I get this problem when transmitting and the cat button is red. I use wsjt-x window 10 system
Error Hamlib: Protocol error
rig_get_mode(2204): freqMainB=0, modeMainB=, widthMainB=0
rig_get_mode: elapsed=55ms
rig.c(2207):rig_get_mode return(-8) Protocol error
rig_get_mode(2204): freqMainB=0, modeMainB=, widthMainB=0
rig_get_mode: elapsed=55ms
rig_get_mode: elapsed=55ms mientras obteniendo modo actual
Where were you FT8 man when I needed you? I had to go to Yaesu Menu Hell back and forth multiple times before I reached digital enlightenment.
Is the SignalLink the best digital interface for the FT891? Or are there other options?
That would be the best. But all you need is a usb to audio adapter.
DigiMaster MiniProSC DATA Interface and is perfect for weak signal operation typical noise figure better than -93dB.
Compare that to a typical SignaLink at just -71dB.
@@mikeh9446 I bought one and set it up yesterday. It's a PITA having to adjust settings to switch between FT8 and SSB within the FT891 every time though :(
@@johnratcliffe6438 Digi3 which i used the sound settings in the PC after you followed the instructions. works well
I use a digirig, same setting show on video. Working on linux/windows without problems
I am confused: 50% ALC?? Others are saying: ALC has to be right at the lowest point, so that it barely moves. Who's right now?
As long as the alc is within that bracket, it’s generally fine.
Ham Radio Crash Course thanks for responding! What about AGC? First I turned it off but some strong stations were overriding. I now set it it to AUTO.
I like to run it off or very fast.
Very helpful
Hi Josh,
That was great. I like DigitalMan. Why limit yourself to just FT8. I'm almost there with FT8. Had to select hardware handshaking on my FT450 to get it to work. I'm also using the SignalInkUSB. Next is setting up where to log contacts. I just entered my first contest using N1MM+. Figured out how get it working about one hour before start of IARU contest this past weekend using NV9L UA-cam video. What would you suggest as a daily logging software, or how about the subject as your next HRCC? 73 WB3BJU
I use N3FJP. It gets the job done and interfaces with the radio and software easily.
How is that 891 for QRP or battery operation?
I use battery all the time with my FT 891. I recommend at least a 10 amp battery with some sort of portable solar panel to help things stay topped off. Standby power draw is around 1 amp, so you need some juice to keep things running in the long run.
Nice video 👍
WIZARDRY!
I wish the menu system on the 891 wasn't so daunting. I'd love to pick this up for POTA and SOTA but I'm not a fan of how the menus are laid out.
Maple frosting. Always my first choice.
Mark W6XYZ
Digiboi
Digi Dude.
Would have been sweet if they put a audio chip in the radio 🤦♂️ I have an FT-819 I use it for camping and run some FT-8 and not having the audio ship in it makes me have to lug more crap around.
and they need to fixed the firmware problems people are complaining about.
I think audio cards being in all radios even a lot of qrp will become standard now.
so ,can he talk with people from spain now ?
digiboy
Call yourself "DIGI-GURU" LOL 73 de AE5ZX
Wow really glad the guy in the background was there commentating the whole time 🤦♂️
How do you change the ALC if you're not using a signa link?
Use the WSJT-X program to lower the output volume.
@@HamRadioCrashCourse have tried that nothing seems to work but I will keep trying. Thank you for responding to my question