How to Configure Your Yaesu FT-991A for FT8
FT8 is one of the most popular digital modes in amateur radio today. While the Yaesu FT-991A is well suited for digital operation, proper configuration is critical for clean audio, reliable CAT control, and courteous on-air operation. This guide walks through the required radio and WSJT-X settings using USB CAT and USB audio.
Step 1: Update Firmware and Install Software
- Verify your FT-991A is running the latest firmware available from Yaesu.
- Install WSJT-X on your computer.
- Install the Yaesu USB driver so the radio appears as both a COM port and a USB sound device.
Step 2: Connect the FT-991A to Your Computer
- Connect the FT-991A to your computer using a standard USB cable.
- Power on the radio.
- Set the radio’s operating mode to USB-D using the MODE button.
- Confirm the computer detects the radio’s COM port and USB audio device.
Step 3: FT-991A Radio Menu Settings
The following menu settings configure the FT-991A for FT8 using USB CAT and USB audio. Menu numbers and values below reflect a known working configuration.
- Menu 029 – RS-232C RATE: 19200
- Menu 030 – RS-232C TOT: 100 ms
- Menu 031 – CAT RATE: 9600 bps
- Menu 032 – CAT TOT: 100 ms
- Menu 033 – CAT RTS: DISABLE
- Menu 060 – PC KEYING: OFF
- Menu 062 – DATA MODE: OTHERS
- Menu 064 – OTHER DISP (SSB): 1500 Hz
- Menu 065 – OTHER SHIFT (SSB): 1500 Hz
- Menu 066 – DATA LCUT FREQ: OFF
- Menu 068 – DATA HCUT FREQ: OFF
- Menu 072 – DATA PORT SELECT: USB
- Menu 106 – SSB MIC SELECT: REAR
- Menu 108 – SSB PTT SELECT: RTS
- Menu 109 – SSB PORT SELECT: USB
- Menu 110 – SSB TX BPF: 100–3000 Hz
- Menu 111 – APF WIDTH: NARROW
Press MENU to exit the setup menu. Press the F button and ensure the following receive filters are OFF:
- NOTCH
- CONT
- DNR
- DNF
Note: FT8 operation requires USB-D mode. In USB-D, microphone gain, speech processing, and compression are bypassed. Only DATA-related settings affect transmit and receive audio.
Step 4: Configure WSJT-X Audio Settings
- Open WSJT-X → Settings → Audio.
- Select the FT-991A USB audio device for both Input and Output.
- Use the WSJT-X PWR slider to control transmit level.
- Adjust levels so the radio produces the desired output power with no ALC indication.
Step 5: Configure CAT Control in WSJT-X
- WSJT-X → Settings → Radio.
- Rig: Yaesu FT-991A.
- Select the correct COM port.
- Set baud rate to match the radio (9600 bps).
- PTT Method: CAT.
- Test CAT and PTT operation.
Step 6: Verify Operation
- Tune the radio to an FT8 frequency (example: 14.074 MHz).
- Confirm WSJT-X is decoding signals.
- Transmit briefly and verify stable power output.
- Ensure there is no ALC movement while transmitting.
- Typical FT8 power levels are 10–30 watts.
Final Tips
- Keep ALC at zero for clean digital signals.
- Avoid high power on FT8.
- Allow only one application to control CAT at a time.
- Recheck settings after firmware or driver updates.
Once configured, the FT-991A provides stable and reliable FT8 performance. Keep your signal clean, operate responsibly, and enjoy making digital contacts worldwide.