The Yaesu FTA-550AA is a VHF Airband Transceiver packed with features, yet very affordable. Boasting an oversized full dot matrix LCD display, the FTA-550AA Airband Transceiver provides full communication on the Aircraft communications Band ("COM" band: 118 ~ 136.975 MHz) and additionally provides VOR and ILS navigation features on the "NAV" band (108 ~ 117.975 MHz). The Yaesu FTA-550AA includes NOAA weather band monitoring and the capability of programming up to 200 memory channels with a quick and easy channel recall feature. The brand new, easy to operate, menu system is icon driven making it simple to navigate through all of the powerful features this transceiver has to offer. Additionally the Yaesu FTA-550AA can easily be reprogrammed in minutes using the optional PC Programming software and the supplied USB programming cable.
Features of the Yaesu FTA-550AA Airband Transceiver:
Yaesu FTA-550AA versus Yaesu FTA-550L: The FTA-550A is the Alkaline Battery version. The transceiver is powered by standard AA alkaline batteries (6). The Yaesu FTA-550L includes everything found on the FTA-550AA PLUS a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery or AC charger.
Easy to operate! The FTA-550AA comes configured with an easy to operate icon driven menu system. The displays and menu settings are logically configured for a more intuitive user interface.
Great display! The FTA-550AA features a huge 1.7" x 1.7" full dot matrix LCD display with full backlight and dimmer. The high resolution display makes it easier to view all the great features the FTA-550AA has to offer.
Navigation! When the FTA-550AA receives a VOR signal, the display will automatically switch to the NAV band screen which shows a CDI based on the received signal.
Well accessorized! Includes DC Cigarette Lighter Adapter, headset adapter cable, alkaline battery case, belt clip, and USB programming cable.
The Yaesu FTA-550AA features a IPX5 waterproof design protects it against rain and water jets. Great for flight line personnel, airshow use, and anyone using a transceiver outdoors where it may rain. In addition it's 800 mw audio amplifier makes the FTA-550AA louder than any other handheld transceiver available today (for example, it's about 35% louder than the Icom IC-A23). The Yaesu FTA-550AA is powered by six standard AA alkaline batteries.
200 memory channels can be easily programmed into the FTA-550AA allowing quick easy access to frequently used channels on the aviation band. Each "book memory" channel can be programmed into the unit using the optional PC programming software and cable. All memory channels can be labeled with either a channel number assignment, operating frequency display, or an alpha-numeric channel name display.
Breaking the squelch threshold has never been easier. Press the Squelch button for two seconds and the FTA-550AA's squelch remains opened for monitoring weak and distant signals. Pressing Squelch again restores squelch settings. This is TRUE one handed operation. No need to fumble with tightly spaced concentric knobs!
Receiver Battery Saver feature is designed to maximize the life of the transceiver's battery. When the FTA-550AA is in the standby mode the battery saver de-energizes the transceivers circuitry, waking up at user selected intervals to sample for radio activity. If no activity is detected the FTA-550AA goes back into its sleep mode. Current consumption is minimized, thereby maximizing battery life. This feature is only found on Yaesu's air band transceivers!
The FTA-550AA can receive all 10 NOAA weather broadcast frequencies. The Automatic Active Weather Channel Locator automatically scans for active NOAA weather stations in your area when the Weather band is selected.
Your Yaesu FTA-550AA includes:
Frequency Range
TX 118.000 - 136.975 MHz (COM Band), RX 108.000 - 117.975 MHz (NAV Band), RX
118.000 - 136.975 MHz (COM Band), WX channels WX-01 - WX-10 8.33 Khz channel
spacing.
Channel Spacing
User selectable 25 kHz or 8.33 kHz
Power Output
5.0 W (PEP), 1.5 W (Carrier Power) @ 7.2 V DC 700mw audio amplifier.
Case Size (WxHxD): 2.4 x 5.2 x 1.3 inches (62 x 133 x 34 mm)
without knob or antenna
Weight (approx.): 14.5 ounces / 410 grams with battery and antenna
The Yaesu FTA-550AA is a VHF Airband Transceiver packed with features, yet very affordable. Boasting an oversized full dot matrix LCD display, the FTA-550AA Airband Transceiver provides full communication on the Aircraft communications Band ("COM" band: 118 ~ 136.975 MHz) and additionally provides VOR and ILS navigation features on the "NAV" band (108 ~ 117.975 MHz). The Yaesu FTA-550AA includes NOAA weather band monitoring and the capability of programming up to 200 memory channels with a quick and easy channel recall feature. The brand new, easy to operate, menu system is icon driven making it simple to navigate through all of the powerful features this transceiver has to offer. Additionally the Yaesu FTA-550AA can easily be reprogrammed in minutes using the optional PC Programming software and the supplied USB programming cable.
Features of the Yaesu FTA-550AA Airband Transceiver:
Yaesu FTA-550AA versus Yaesu FTA-550L: The FTA-550A is the Alkaline Battery version. The transceiver is powered by standard AA alkaline batteries (6). The Yaesu FTA-550L includes everything found on the FTA-550AA PLUS a rechargeable Lithium Ion battery or AC charger.
Easy to operate! The FTA-550AA comes configured with an easy to operate icon driven menu system. The displays and menu settings are logically configured for a more intuitive user interface.
Great display! The FTA-550AA features a huge 1.7" x 1.7" full dot matrix LCD display with full backlight and dimmer. The high resolution display makes it easier to view all the great features the FTA-550AA has to offer.
Navigation! When the FTA-550AA receives a VOR signal, the display will automatically switch to the NAV band screen which shows a CDI based on the received signal.
Well accessorized! Includes DC Cigarette Lighter Adapter, headset adapter cable, alkaline battery case, belt clip, and USB programming cable.
The Yaesu FTA-550AA features a IPX5 waterproof design protects it against rain and water jets. Great for flight line personnel, airshow use, and anyone using a transceiver outdoors where it may rain. In addition it's 800 mw audio amplifier makes the FTA-550AA louder than any other handheld transceiver available today (for example, it's about 35% louder than the Icom IC-A23). The Yaesu FTA-550AA is powered by six standard AA alkaline batteries.
200 memory channels can be easily programmed into the FTA-550AA allowing quick easy access to frequently used channels on the aviation band. Each "book memory" channel can be programmed into the unit using the optional PC programming software and cable. All memory channels can be labeled with either a channel number assignment, operating frequency display, or an alpha-numeric channel name display.
Breaking the squelch threshold has never been easier. Press the Squelch button for two seconds and the FTA-550AA's squelch remains opened for monitoring weak and distant signals. Pressing Squelch again restores squelch settings. This is TRUE one handed operation. No need to fumble with tightly spaced concentric knobs!
Receiver Battery Saver feature is designed to maximize the life of the transceiver's battery. When the FTA-550AA is in the standby mode the battery saver de-energizes the transceivers circuitry, waking up at user selected intervals to sample for radio activity. If no activity is detected the FTA-550AA goes back into its sleep mode. Current consumption is minimized, thereby maximizing battery life. This feature is only found on Yaesu's air band transceivers!
The FTA-550AA can receive all 10 NOAA weather broadcast frequencies. The Automatic Active Weather Channel Locator automatically scans for active NOAA weather stations in your area when the Weather band is selected.
Your Yaesu FTA-550AA includes:
Frequency Range
TX 118.000 - 136.975 MHz (COM Band), RX 108.000 - 117.975 MHz (NAV Band), RX
118.000 - 136.975 MHz (COM Band), WX channels WX-01 - WX-10 8.33 Khz channel
spacing.
Channel Spacing
User selectable 25 kHz or 8.33 kHz
Power Output
5.0 W (PEP), 1.5 W (Carrier Power) @ 7.2 V DC 700mw audio amplifier.
Case Size (WxHxD): 2.4 x 5.2 x 1.3 inches (62 x 133 x 34 mm)
without knob or antenna
Weight (approx.): 14.5 ounces / 410 grams with battery and antenna
Q: What type connector is on the antenna? Can the radio be connected to an external antenna for better range?
A: Yes, the antenna is attached with an industry standard BNC connection.
Q: What is the range?
A: The effective range of a handheld aviation transceiver is influenced by a multitude of variables, such as atmospheric conditions/weather, physical obstructions, the power of the receiver, and the relative altitudes of the transmitter and receiver. Given the dynamic nature of these factors, it''s challenging to provide a precise estimate of the range.
Q: Can I use a PTT switch and an intercom?
A: Yes! The two-place intercom and PTT switch that you would need can be found here.
Q: Can the FTA -550-AA be converted to the L version by buying a lithium battery pack and charger?
A: Yes, if you add the charger and the battery you would have the FTA-550L version.
Q: How do we order for the FTA-550L model another ac charger ? Can we use a cig light adaptor since we bought the other model?
A: We have both the Yaesu 110v Overnight Charger for FTA-550 / FTA-750 and the Yaesu SDD-12 12v Cigarette Lighter Plug for FTA-550.
Q: Can you transmit through the headset or do you have to use the radio mic?
A: Yes, you can transmit through the microphone on your headset when connected via the headset adapter.
Q: Can you Add a 2 person intercom with use a 2 person intercom with the yaesu radio?
A: Yes. We have this Two Place Intercom for Yaesu FTA-550 and FTA-750 Transceivers.
Q: Can you get a belt clip?
A: This includes a belt clip.
Q: will it pick up the morse ident tone from the VOR and LOC?
A: Yes. It receives on all navigation frequencies (108.000 through 117.975 MHz).
Q: Is it possible to set a specific VOR-Frequency manually?
A: Yes, you can tune this to a specific VOR channel.
Q: What is the expected battery life with AA batteries ?
A: You could expect about 8 to 10 hours using the alkaline battery tray.
Q: Can the antenna be twisted off so that my external antenna be connected
A: Yes, the antenna is attached with an industry standard BNC connection.
Q: What is the radio's warranty?
A: This has a 3 year Yaesu warranty.