Rated at approximately 100 to 130 watts PEP (Peak Envelope Power) output on SSB, and slightly less on CW and AM.
For mobile or field use, Sommerkamp offered a heavy-duty 12V DC inverter power supply to run off a car battery. sommerkamp ft 250
Though restricted compared to modern rigs, it allowed compatibility with legacy AM operators. The Powerhouse: Transmitter Section Rated at approximately 100 to 130 watts PEP
Operating the FT-250 is an experience in itself. Unlike modern radios that often have a sterile, clinical feel, the FT-250 has a warm, distinctive sound and a unique operating "feel" that users find less fatiguing during long listening sessions. The AGC in many modern rigs brings all signals up to a similar volume, which can raise the background noise floor. In contrast, the FT-250's receiver has a more natural, proportional AGC action. Weak signals stay relatively quiet (along with the antenna noise), while strong signals are loud, providing a more dynamic and often more pleasant listening experience. The Powerhouse: Transmitter Section Operating the FT-250 is
As a hybrid tube/transistor unit, many enthusiasts find the FT-250 easier to service and repair compared to newer, microchip-heavy transceivers.