YAESUFTA550L Handheld VHF Transceiver w/Li-Ion Battery

Pros: Ease of use, large display, sound clarity, come complete, detailed manualCons: Optional free software is for Windows onlyI debated between the Yaesu FTA-550L and the ICOM IC-A24.Several pilots I know, own the ICOM as a backup handheld, so had a chance to check those out first hand. For the Yaesu 550 was not aware of anyone that owned one, so I had to rely on online research before deciding.Overall size between the 550L and IC-A24 average about the same. The 550L is however slightly lighter.The screen size on the 550L is much larger than the IC-A24. It is easy to read, and because of the larger size, displays more information.Keep in mind that the range for any handheld unit will be limited. Comparing the ground range, I found 550L and the IC-A24 to have about the same range. However, the clarity of the 550L appeared to be better.Several pilots I have since shown my Yaesu 550, really liked its features and its clarity. A couple even commented that they like it more than their IC-A24.I elected to purchase the 550L, which also includes a Lithium-ion battery pack and charger vs. just the basic 550 model which only comes with AA battery tray. Street price was only about $80 more for the 550L with the Lithium-ion battery, and it still came with the AA battery tray.The street price for the Yaesu 550L was also cheaper than the ICOM IC-A24 with just AA batteries.I purchased mine from a seller on Amazon, with the order filled by Amazon Prime.In addition, at the time I purchased this, Yaesu had a promotion for an additional $25 off. So check the Yaesu website for possible rebates. I only sent in for my rebate a couple days ago, so I can’t say yet on how fast they will process it and I get my rebate check.The optional software that you can download from Yaesu’s website is a handy tool. Note that it is only available for Windows, not Mac.Programing the 550 is easy by itself, but if you have a lot you want to program in, the software makes it really easy to do. Plus the software easily allows you to adjust about any other feature of the radio too.In addition to the software, you will need to download the manual for it. Make sure you fully read through the section on how to connect the radio to your computer before you attempt too. There are a couple steps out of sequence, and if you don’t catch the comment “see next page” in time, you may need to start over.One negative item; per the manual, the charger for the Lithium-ion battery is not designed to simultaneously power the transceiver and charge the battery.Overall I am very happy with this purchases.

As a pilot you know that this type of backup radio is never going to reach anyone 25 or 30 miles downrange, but for pattern work or to reach a nearby tower, it does the trick! This model is made in Japan and includes NAV/VOR/ILS features, but it's hard to envision fiddling with it as backup for an IFR approach - unless you were in a real lights out emergency. In any case, this baby has some cool attachments such as 1) the included aviation headset/mic adapter, 2) both UK and EU AC power plug adapters, 3) a 12V cigarette lighter power cord (with ferrous magnet thingy to stop engine interference), 4) a 6xAA power pack as backup in case your Lithium-Ion battery poops out, 5) a charging base, 6) an AC adapter (obviously), 7) a USB cable, and 8) a belt clip attachment (for serious geeks only). Some key user notes: 1) You cannot not use the AC or 12V adapters to run the radio - they are for charging only. 2) The USB attachment is used for programming the radio using software that you must download from Yaesu.com. In order to do that, you MUST go to the website, Register, and then SELECT the "OWNERS CORNER" page, and THEN add your product type to your product list. Then and only then will you see the downloads and manuals and materials for your particular model, including FIRMWARE updates. All of this is perhaps unnecessarily cumbersome, but it does work. You must also install the software and drivers to your WINDOWS PC in order to interact with the radio. Anyway, if you are going to be geeky enough to wear the 550L on your belt, you should be able to figure out the software! Have fun and safe flying - hopefully you'll never have to use it in the air!

In light of the new rules (specifically, Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 107) attributed with the operation of small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) in the NAS, this is the ideal transceiver for sUAS remote pilots.Of late, a number of municipalities within my FSDO are enacting ordinances that prohibit (recreational) sUAS operations sans prior ATC clearance. Yes, even if one is within Class G, and under 400' AGL. Sadly, these bureaucrats fail to acknowledge the fact that the FAA maintains the sole and exclusive authority to regulate the NAS. Now, a simple flash the 550L deters those near-harassing, intra-flight inquiries by LEO.I deliberately sought out the 550L for the sole purpose of operating my sUAS fleet within 5-miles of controlled airspace (caveat: no flights occur without prior ATC clearance, as with maintaining all flights under 400' AGL. Now who sounds like a bureaucrat?).For my specific use, this is an amazing transceiver. There was, however, a slight learning curve pre-programming frequencies. Fortunately, my CFI has experience with the 550 and walked me through the process.I have yet to experience a scenario where maximum (speaker) volume was warranted. In one case, I was standing 20' from a major freeway, and 4.72 miles from the airport, and was summarily impressed with the 550L's performance. Coincidentally, I am seriously contemplating the optional (Yaesu) Vertex speaker microphone. This particular decision in no way negates the superb clarity of the radio.I also appreciate the included AA battery tray, which is always stocked with Panasonic Eneloops, and readily available in my bag. I am of the opinion that two battery sources are better than one.FAA-compliant sUAS flights are a must for me, and the 550L is a necessary arrow in my quiver. Are there other options? Sure. I, however, have no regrets with my purchase. None.And, I even scored a $25 rebate from Yaesu.