If you’re looking to get your Yaesu FT-70D on Yaesu System Fusion (YSF) using a Pi-Star hotspot, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re running an MMDVM hotspot on a Raspberry Pi or another compatible device, the setup is straightforward once you know the correct settings.
This guide walks you through configuring both the Pi-Star hotspot and your FT-70D so you can be on the air in just a few minutes.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- A Yaesu FT-70D handheld transceiver
- A Pi-Star hotspot (MMDVM-based)
- A Raspberry Pi running Pi-Star
- Your amateur radio callsign
- A stable Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection
- A web browser for configuring Pi-Star
Step 1: Configure Your Pi-Star Hotspot
Access the Pi-Star Dashboard
Connect your computer or mobile device to the same network as your hotspot.
Open a web browser and navigate to:
http://pi-star.local
If your network doesn’t resolve hostnames, simply enter the hotspot’s IP address.
Log Into Pi-Star
By default, Pi-Star uses:
- Username:
pi-star - Password:
raspberry
If you’ve changed these credentials, use your updated login information.
Enable Yaesu System Fusion
Navigate to Configuration and enable YSF Mode.
Configure the following settings:
- Callsign: Enter your FCC-issued amateur radio callsign.
- CCS7 / DMR ID: Enter your DMR ID if you plan to use cross-mode features such as YSF2DMR.
- Frequency: Select an available simplex frequency (for example, 433.550 MHz).
- Duplex: Set to Simplex, since most personal hotspots operate on a single frequency.
- YSF Startup Host: Choose the reflector you want your hotspot to connect to automatically.
Popular reflector choices include:
- America Link
- YSF Reflector
- Regional or local country reflectors
After making your changes, click Apply Changes and allow Pi-Star to restart its services.
Step 2: Program the Yaesu FT-70D
Set the Operating Frequency
On the FT-70D:
- Switch the radio into VFO Mode.
- Enter the exact frequency configured in Pi-Star.
- Press and hold the MODE button.
- Rotate the DIAL until DN (Digital Narrow) is displayed.
- Press MODE again to confirm.
The radio is now configured for System Fusion digital operation.
Save the Channel to Memory
To avoid entering the frequency each time:
- Press and hold F/W.
- Select an available memory channel.
- Press and hold F/W again to save.
Having your hotspot stored in memory makes it much easier to access while traveling or operating portable.
Using WIRES-X
The FT-70D also supports WIRES-X functionality.
To access it:
- Press and hold the AMS button.
- If connected through your hotspot, browse available rooms using the DIAL.
This allows you to explore thousands of System Fusion rooms around the world directly from your handheld.
Testing Your Setup
Once everything is configured:
- Key the microphone and make a brief transmission.
- Watch the Pi-Star dashboard for activity.
- Verify that your transmission is reaching the selected reflector.
If everything is working correctly, you’ll see your callsign appear on the dashboard and hear traffic from the connected room.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your hotspot isn’t responding, check the following:
- Verify that the radio and hotspot are on exactly the same frequency.
- Confirm the FT-70D is operating in DN (Digital Narrow) mode.
- Ensure YSF Mode is enabled in Pi-Star.
- Check that the hotspot has an active Internet connection.
- Confirm your hotspot has successfully connected to a reflector.
- Review the Pi-Star dashboard logs for any configuration or network errors.
Most connection problems are caused by a frequency mismatch or an incorrect digital mode.
Final Thoughts
The Yaesu FT-70D and a Pi-Star hotspot make an excellent combination for exploring the world of Yaesu System Fusion. Once configured, you’ll have access to reflectors and operators across the globe with nothing more than a handheld radio and a small hotspot.
Whether you’re operating from home, traveling, or taking your station portable, this setup provides an easy and reliable gateway into the worldwide Fusion network.
Stay safe, enjoy the hobby, and I’ll see you on the air!
73,
Richard “Mac” McKinney – NI3N