Yaesu FTA-550AA (Alkaline) NAV-COM Aviation Transceiver Overview:
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:
- 5 Watts TX Output Power (Airband: AM 5W P.E.P. type, 1.5W carrier)
- Huge 1.7" x 1.7" Full Dot Matrix display (160 x 160 Dots)
- ILS Navigation Display (Localizer)
- VOR Navigation Display
- NOAA Weather Channel and Weather Alert (USA only)
- 200 Memory Channels with 15 alphanumeric characters
- Back-lit Keypad and display with dimmer
- Water Protection -IPX5 Rating
- Loud Audio (800 mW speaker)
- 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz channel spacing
- Alkaline Battery Tray (AA x 6)
- Headset Adapter included
- Cigarette Lighter Adapter included
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:
- Cigarette Lighter Adapter
- BNC Helical Antenna
- Headset adapter
- Alkaline battery tray
- Quick Draw Belt Clip
- USB Cable
- Ferrite Core
- User Guide / Operating Manual
- Warranty Card
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