• FTDI USB Cat & programming cable with linear PTT out for Yaesu FT-100 FT-817 FT-818 FT-857 FT-897

CAT control AND linear switching with one clever cable!

One problem with the FT-8x7 series of transceivers is that the CAT interface and the PTT output share the same connector. This unique cable not only allows you to control your radio from your PC, but also provides a linear amplifier PTT switching output too!

CAT/programming cable

This handy cable allows control of your Yaesu transceiver by your computer.

  • High quality screened (shielded) cable to reduce noise and RF interference
  • Every cable is individually assembled and tested in our UK workshop
  • Superior quality USB to serial chips for guaranteed reliability
  • Length approx 1.7m/5ft 6ins - long enough even if your PC is under your desk
  • Extend up to 5m by adding a USB extension cable (not included)

For example, you can use remote control software like Ham Radio Deluxe or edit and backup your memory channels easily. Contest and logging software can fetch your operating frequency and mode direct from the radio. If you are working satellites, your computer can automatically track your transmit and receive frequencies and compensate for doppler shift.

One end of the cable has an 8-pin mini-DIN plug which connects to the radio:

FT-100 – Band Data pigtail
FT-817 – ACC socket
FT-857/897 – CAT/Linear socket

The other end has a USB plug which connects to the PC's USB port. The cable contains a USB to serial converter, so the radio appears as a COM (serial) port on the PC.

Note: FT-100 and FT-100D transceivers do not allow memory programming using a cable.

Our standard cable uses the SiLabs CP2102 USB to serial chipset.

This premium version uses the FTDI FT232RL chipset.

Both work with all current versions of Windows.

For more detailed information please read our USB chipset information page.

Please note that a CAT cable is not an audio interface for datamodes.

Linear amplifier keying/PTT/switching output

This cable also enables your Yaesu radio to control the transmit/receive switching of your linear amplifier. Essential if your linear doesn't have RF sensed switching. Even with amplifiers with RF switching, it eliminates the need for switching delays that often mean missing the first part of the other station's transmission - irritating at best, but disastrous while contesting or working fast CW!

The transceiver end of the cable has a short pigtail with a phono (RCA) socket. You will need a
screened (shielded) phono (RCA) cable to connect to the Key, Tx or PTT input connector of your linear amplifier. This cable is not included as individual requirements vary. Suitable cables are available in our shop.

Although we are happy to offer advice, it is ultimately your responsibility to verify that the switching output of your transceiver and the switching input of your amplifier can be safely connected to each other using this cable.


FTDI USB Cat & programming cable with linear PTT out for Yaesu FT-100 FT-817 FT-818 FT-857 FT-897

  • Brand: TechnoFix
  • Product Code: CatLin8pYsu-F
  • Availability: In Stock
  • £27.99


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Tags: FT-100D, FT-817, FT-857, FT-897, FT-818

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