Like the IC-7300, the FT-991A has USB audio and CAT control built in, so one cable connects it to your computer for FT8, Winlink and logging. The Yaesu side has a couple of twists, mainly two COM ports, so here’s how to sort it out.
Level: Beginner | Time: About 15 minutes | Note: Menu numbers below are for the FT-991A. Check your manual if yours look different.
What You’ll Need
- A USB A-to-B cable, shielded with ferrites if possible.
- Clip-on ferrite chokes to keep RF off the cable.
- A computer, plus the Yaesu Virtual COM Port driver from Yaesu’s website.
Step 1: Install the Driver, Then Plug In
Install the Yaesu USB driver first, then connect the cable. In Windows Device Manager you’ll see two ports under Ports (COM & LPT):
- Silicon Labs Dual CP2105 … Enhanced COM Port: this one is for CAT (rig control).
- Silicon Labs Dual CP2105 … Standard COM Port: this one is for PTT.
Write down both numbers. Mixing them up is the number one FT-991A problem.
Step 2: Radio Menu Settings
Press MENU, turn the knob to each item, and set:
- 031 CAT RATE: 38400 bps
- 032 CAT TOT: 100 msec
- 062 DATA MODE: OTHERS
- 070 DATA IN SELECT: REAR
- 071 DATA PTT SELECT: RTS
- 072 DATA PORT SELECT: USB
- 073 DATA OUT LEVEL: start around 50
For digital modes, press MODE until the display shows DATA-U.
Step 3: Software Settings
In WSJT-X, choose Yaesu FT-991 as the rig. Set the serial port to the Enhanced COM port at 38400 baud. For PTT, choose RTS on the Standard COM port. Audio in and out: USB Audio CODEC. Then click Test CAT and Test PTT.
Gotchas
- Test CAT fails? You’re probably on the Standard port instead of the Enhanced one.
- Baud rate mismatch. Menu 031 and the software must both say 38400.
- Keep ALC low on digital modes. Lower menu 073 or the software power slider if it climbs.
Your Turn
Running a different Yaesu, like the FT-710, FT-891 or FTDX10? Ask in the comments and I’ll cover it in a future post.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This site supports local ham clubs.
Leave a Reply