FTM-7250: Strange Characters on the Screen

So you have programmed your FTM-7250 memory channels with names for better identification. But, when you tune to the channel, there is a strange "F" or "D" or "d" or "v" as the last character.  Where did this character come from?  You did not enter it as part of the name.  

Read the details here or learn through this video: FTM-7250 Display and AMS Mode

The solution lies in the AMS (Automatic Mode Selection) function.  As described on page 15 of the Operating Manual, 

That extra letter indicates the TRANSMISSION mode that the radio will use.  

Given this file used to program the radio:  

Channels 1-3 and 11-26 display an "F" with the name. Actually, if the name is too long, you lose the last letter of the name for the sake of the "F". 

Channels 4-10 display no letter designation. Yes, even 10 that is checked for AMS. Apparently, AMS and AM are mutually exclusive. 

Channels 27 and 28 display "D" with the name. 

The AMS function will set the radio to the mode of the received signal automatically to let the radio hear the call. The  transmission signal may be fixed to a given mode (digital or analog) regardless of the received mode or may vary the transmission signal to match that of the received mode. 

You notice there are 5 options shown in the manual.  Those are controlled in one option setting found in the programmer under Settings | Radio Menu Settings |Group Monitor/Wires | Digital.  That option is TX Mode (as shown highlighted below).  This is Menu Item 12 in the radio. 

The settings include

• Auto - This is the default.  The radio will switch between DN, VW and FM mode depending on the received signal.  For those not familiar with the repeaters in the area, this is your best option to hear and then respond to a call.  (D on display. The DN designation blinks evenly off and on.)
• TXManual - The radio remains on DN or FM mode until you briefly press the PTT on the microphone to switch between digital and analog modes.  This is best if you know the repeaters and want to control your response depending on which you are using.  (D on display. The DN indication below it blinks more slowly)
• TX FMFix - The transmitted signal will be FM always regardless of the signal heard (F on display.  The DN blinks evenly off and on.)
• TX DIGTL - The transmitted signal will be DN regardless of the signal heard. (d on display. The DN designation blinks evenly off and on.)
• TX VWFix - Note: Digital VW, on this same page of the Programmer, must be checked for TX VWFix to function. The transmitted signal will always be VW mode regardless of the signal heard.  (v on display. The DN designation blinks evenly off and on.)

09/03/2025