Yaesu: Yaesu FT221R Questions

[KF0AWL]

I picked up a Yaesu FT221R really cheap last summer at hamfest and I'm starting to think about playing with it.
It powers on I know that.
But I have no idea how to use it! I did find a manual Ill download but I don't know like do I need a special antenna besides my normal vhf 2 meter to operate on? Also how do I know if its even sending out a signal?
Im getting comfortable on UHF/VHF modern transceivers but there are a LOT of buttons and switches on this thing. Lol
Im working on learning CW right now so that will probably be its main purpose.

 

[mmckenna]

Your 2 meter antenna will work.

However, if you are planning on using SSB or CW on 2 meters, you probably want to look at a horizontally polarized antenna, like a Yagi.

I'd recommend a 2 meter capable SWR meter to confirm it's transmitting and that your antenna is resonate.

 

[KF0AWL]

Ah yes! Never thought of that!
I have a nano vna and a 2 meter tuner duh! Just gotta figure out how to determine how to do it lol
Usually just tune my homebrew antenna with it!