I by no means take credit for all the information in here.
Nor do I accept any responsibility for it's accuracy.
Furthermore I accept no responsibility for what you do (or don't do) with the information.
With all that in mind here is my attempt at a VX-5 FAQ.

Q. What is a VX-5 (the 'R' is optional)
Q. How does the VX-5 compare to the VX-1?
Q. How do I tune the calling frequency on 6m? (52.525)
Q. Are there mods for it yet?
Q. Is there computer software available?
Q. Will I need a cable?
Q. Where do I get the accessory connector.
Q. Where can I get A "Good" SMA - BNC Adapter?.
Q. Is there really a 'Lion' inside my radio?.
Q. Where can I find out more?


What is a VX-5 (the 'R' is optional)
It's a small black box with magic inside. It should be respected and feared. (come on, you know what one is)


How does the VX-5 compare to the VX-1?
It doesn't! They are completely different radios.
Excluding the 6m transmit the closest comparison would be the Yaesu FT-50.


How do I tune the calling frequency on 6m? (52.525)
As you have discovered the 5 KHz step is not available in 6m. The solution is to change to 12.5 or 25 KHz and then tune it.
Do a little math and you can get anywhere you want.


Are there mods for it yet?
Yes! both hardware and software.
check here:
 http://www.icongrp.com/~sllewd/
or here:
 http://www.geol.com/vx5
for information how and what is gained.


Is there computer software available?
As of 25 Feb 99 No. I spoke to RT Systems (makers of the ADMS Software) on Mon 18 Jan 99 and they said ADMS-1E is not available yet and could only say it would be "Soon".
However there is a free program called EVE that can be downloaded from here:
 http://www.geol.com/vx5 EVEv???.zip


Will I need a cable?
Yes unfortunately the IR interface was not included in this version.
You have several alternatives at this point: Note: Everything except 'waiting', requires downloading EVE.


Where do I get the accessory connector.
You can order one from Tower Electronics - Orders 1-800-662-3422 Tech Info 1-920-435-3359 Fax Line 1-920-435-2980 Email KB9AMM@juno.com
They are a straight, molded, pre wired connector with about 20 inches of 4 conductor wire and cost about $8
or (A much better idea)
Go to your local 'Candy' (Amateur Radio Supply) Store, Buy the Yaesu CT-27 Cloning cable, Cut it in half and you have two for $10.
If you only need it for cloning/programing you can use a 3 conductor 1/8" plug. Connect Data to the center ring and Ground to the Sleve (farthest from the tip)

Where can I get A "Good" SMA - BNC Adapter?
SMA male to BNC female adapter. Imported by Aim Electronics of Sunrise, FL. and stocked by Gateway Electronics (http://www.gatewayelex.com). Aim's stock number: 29-3855P. Gateway price: $4.20.

Is there really a 'Lion' inside my radio?
'Lion' is a common contraction for 'Lithium Ion' (Li-Ion) The type of Battery in the VX-5.
To find out everything you want to know about Li-Ion batteries look here: http://www.cadex.com/cfm/index.cfm?Pg=263&Lp=314&Db=&Mo=


Where can I find out more?
   73
  -Ed-
 KF4FDT
 Everybody's equal in the glow of radiation - Cheryl Crow