SlimDigi by LB8IJ - Digital interface for Yaesu FT-891, FT-817, FT-818, FT-857, FT-897

Background

As an active portable ham radio operator, I am always interested in evolving my gear to support a wide variety of ham radio activities. My primary rig for portable operations is the Yaesu FT-891 and with no internal soundcard theres a need for an external solution to be able to run digital modes. In search for a good solution and in hope of saving a few bucks I came to this solution that in my opinion lacks nothing compared to other alternatives. It works no both mobile devices and compeuters, and is tested with many different digimodes and softwares FT8, WinLink, SSTV,++. A poor man’s digital interface that cost less than $15 to build. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s build it!

There Is now a new version supporting FT-817, FT-818, FT-857, FT-897

Bill of Materials

• USB Hub https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oBSRBSh
• USB Soundcard https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oCgCzpP
• PS/2 cable https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_o2ap9kN
• USB-c to USB-c cable https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_ol008yv
• 4x M2x6mm screws https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oksOim5
• 4x 2x5mm magnets https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oFWnCq5
• Select one of:
  • FT-891: USB-A to USB-B cable https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oobhz1J
  • FT-817, FT-818, FT-857, FT-897: CT-62 cable https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c37711Rv

*Note: This post contains AliExpress Affiliate links that support Ham Radio Passion via a small commission from any sales they help generate. It should cost you nothing more.

Tools

• Cable Strippers https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_opAJSKN
• Soldering Iron
• Solder
• 1.5mm Hex Key https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_okLnZq1
• 3D Printer

Assembly

I recommend you watch the video above before you start the assembly.

• Remove the cover on the USB Soundcard
• Desolder the two minijack sockets from the soundcard pcb
• Cut and strip the PS/2 cable (You only need the red, orange and green wires).
• Solder the PS/2 cable onto the pcb like this (PS: The colors may differ in other cables so its a good idea to check with a multimeter before you solder):

• Plug the soundcard and USB-A to USB-B cable into the USB Hub.
• Place the Hub with attachments into the 3D printed box.

• Attache the lid using the 4x M2 screws.
• Press the magnets into the holes in the lid. You may use a drop of superglue to secure the magnets.

Usage

• Plug the USB-B and PS/2 connectors into the FT-891
• Plug a USB-c cable between your computer or mobile device and the digital interface.
• Two COM ports should now be available as CAT control and a soundcard for audio in and audio out.

Good Luck! 

And I hope to see you on the bands! 

73 de Øystein LB8IJ