RS HTX-10 Owners Manual
RS HTX-10 Owners Manual
RS HTX-10 Owners Manual
19-1110 A
OWNERS MANUAL
HTX-10
10-Meter Transceiver
FEATURES
Your RadioShack HTX-10 10-Meter Transceiver is ideal for use in your vehicle. Its 25-watt SSB/FM and 7-watt AM output provides the power you need to communicate, and its tuner covers the entire 10-meter Amateur Radio band (including the 28.3 to 28.5 MHz Novice band). You can connect a DC power supply and base station antenna to your transceiver to set up a base station in your home. The transceivers crystal-controlled circuitry provides accurate and stable channel selection, making it an ideal choice for your amateur communications needs. Your transceiver has these advanced features: Large, Illuminated, Digital Display clearly shows the frequency, functions, and incoming signal strength. 1 kHz Frequency Resolution lets you fine tune frequencies for optimum transmission and reception. Scan the transceiver scans its frequency range for transmissions. MIC and RF Gain Control lets you adjust the microphone and receiver gain to match the strength of the received signal. Switchable Noise Blanker reduces interference from ignition systems, motors, and other electrical equipment. Squelch Circuit compensates for signal fading and eliminates signal chopping. Automatic Gain Control maintains a constant volume level, regardless of the signal strength. Built-In Automatic Modulation Control ensures a constant RF modulation level. Universal Mounting Bracket lets you mount your transceiver securely in your vehicle or on a shelf in your home.
2000 Tandy Corporation. All Rights Reserved. RadioShack is a registered trademark used by Tandy Corporation.
Important: You must have a Technician Class or higher Amateur Radio Operators License, and a call sign issued by the FCC, to legally transmit using this transceiver. Transmitting without a license carries heavy penalties. Getting a license is easier than ever. See Introduction to Amateur Radio on Page 6 for more information. We recommend you record your transceivers serial number here. The number is on the transceivers back panel. Serial Number ____________________________
MANUAL CONVENTIONS
Your transceivers buttons perform multiple functions. The abbreviation or symbol for a function is printed on, below, or above each button. To activate certain transceiver features, you must press PUSH
FUNC (function) then another button.
Button names are printed in this manual in small, bold, capital letters (such as PUSH FUNC or SCAN). Words, symbols, and numbers that appear on the display are printed using a distinctive typeface (such as 28.300 or BUSY).
FCC INFORMATION
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment complies with the limits for a Class B digital device as specified in Part 15 of FCC Rules. These limits provide reasonable protection against radio and TV interference in a residential area. However, your equipment might cause TV or radio interference even when it is operating properly. To eliminate interference, you can try one or more of the following corrective measures: reorient or relocate the receiving antenna increase the distance between the equipment and the radio or TV Consult your local RadioShack store if the problem still exists. You must use shielded interface cables with this equipment. 4
CONTENTS
Introduction to Amateur Radio ............................................. 6 Preparation ............................................................................. 8 Attaching the Microphone Holder ..................................... 8 Mounting the Transceiver ................................................. 8 Connecting an Antenna .................................................. 10 Connecting the Microphone ............................................ 12 Connecting an Optional External Speaker ...................... 12 Using Vehicle Battery Power .......................................... 13 Using the Transceiver as a Base Station ........................ 14 A Quick Look at the Controls ............................................. 16 Operation .............................................................................. Setting Squelch and Receiving ....................................... Transmitting .................................................................... Notes on SSB Reception ................................................ Special Features .................................................................. Using the Special Features ............................................. Using STEP ............................................................. Using CALL ............................................................. Using SCAN ............................................................ Using LCR (Last Channel Recall) ............................ Using M-LOAD ........................................................ Using NB (Noise Blanker) ........................................ Using SHIFT ............................................................ Using T-LOW (Tone-Low) ........................................ Using M-SAVE (Memory Save) ............................... Using FINE (Clarifier) .............................................. Using RF-G (RF Gain) ............................................. Using MIC-G (Microphone Gain) ............................. Turning the Key Tone on and Off .................................... 17 17 18 19 20 20 21 22 22 23 23 23 24 24 25 25 26 26 26
Care and Maintenance ......................................................... 27 Troubleshooting ................................................................... 28 Noise Reduction ............................................................. 29 Replacing the Fuse ......................................................... 30 Specifications ....................................................................... 32 5
http://www.arrl.org
Start studying for the license exams. Do not be intimidated by the word study, for most people can go from knowing absolutely nothing about amateur radio to passing the Novice and Technician written exams in less than a month. The exams test your knowledge of basic radio regulations and elementary radio theory. Many clubs hold license classes, which can be a fun and easy way to learn about amateur radio. There are good books, cassette tapes, computer programs, and many other study aids available. Your local RadioShack store sells FCC License Preparation study guides for amateur radio operator licenses. While you are no longer required to learn Morse code for a Technician Class license, we encourage you to learn it anyway so you can advance to higher levels of operating privileges. The examiners for a Novice license test can be any two ham operators who hold a general or higher class license and who are at least 18 years old and are not related to you. There is no fee to take the Novice exam. As soon as you pass the Novice exam, you can immediately take the Technician exam. There is a small fee required for taking the Technician exam, and the test must be administered by a three-member Volunteer Examiner Team. Contact the ARRL for a schedule of exam opportunities in your area. A Novice Class or Technician Plus (or higher) license lets you use the HTX-10 to communicate directly with other operators. Amateur radio is a great hobby that has enriched the lives of millions of people all over the world. The ARRL would be glad to hear from you if you need more information or would like to join!
PREPARATION
ATTACHING THE MICROPHONE HOLDER
You can connect the microphone holder horizontally or vertically to either side of the transceiver or to another location in your vehicle. Use the supplied screws and lock washers to secure the holder to the side of the transceiver.
Or, follow these steps to attach the holder to another location in the vehicle (such as the dashboard). 1. Using the holder as a template, mark the positions for the mounting screw holes at the desired location. 2. At each marked position, drill a hole slightly smaller than the supplied mounting screws. Caution: Be careful not to drill into anything behind the mounting surface. 3. Attach the holder at the mounting location using the supplied machine screws and lock washers.
If you are mounting the transceiver in a vehicle, choose a location where: you can easily reach the transceiver. wires and cables are clear of the vehicle's pedals or other moving parts. the transceiver is not directly in front of heating vents. all wires and cables can reach their connection points. Warning: If you use the transceiver in a vehicle, mount it securely to avoid damage to the transceiver or vehicle, and to avoid injury to anyone in the vehicle during sudden starts or stops. Follow these steps to mount the transceiver using the supplied hardware. 1. Using the mounting bracket as a template, mark the positions for the screw holes on the mounting surface.
2. In each marked location, drill a hole slightly smaller than the supplied mounting screws. Caution: Be careful not to drill into objects behind the mounting surface. 3. Using a Phillips screwdriver, attach the mounting bracket to the mounting surface with the supplied mounting screws and flat washers.
4. Attach the transceiver to the mounting bracket using the supplied rubber washers and mounting knobs.
CONNECTING AN ANTENNA
There are many different types of transceiver antennas for mobile transceivers. Each antenna type has its own benefits, so choose the one that best meets your needs. Your local RadioShack store sells a wide variety of antennas. Note: If you are using this transceiver as a base station, see Using the Transceiver as a Base Station on Page 14. When you choose an antenna, keep in mind that for the best performance you should mount the antenna: as high as possible on the vehicle as far as possible from sources of electrical noise vertically 10
Once you choose an antenna, follow its mounting instructions. Then route the cable to the transceiver and connect the cable to the ANT jack on the back of the transceiver. Cautions: Avoid routing the cable next to sharp edges or moving parts, which might damage the cable. Do not run the cable next to power cables or other radio antenna cables. Do not run the cable through the engine compartment or other areas that produce extreme heat. To achieve your radio's maximum range, adjust the antenna's Standing Wave Ratio (SWR). You can use an SWR meter (not supplied) to adjust the SWR for your antenna. Follow the instructions supplied with the SWR meter and antenna to adjust your antenna's SWR to the lowest possible value. SWR values of 2.0:1 are generally acceptable, with readings of 1.5:1 or lower being more desirable. Caution: You might damage your transceiver if you use it at a high SWR value.
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To connect the external speaker to the transceiver, insert the speaker's plug into the EXT jack on the back of the transceiver Note: Connecting an external speaker disconnects the transceiver's internal speaker.
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Caution: Do not connect the black wire to a non-metallic (plastic) part, or to any part insulated from the vehicle's chassis by a non-metallic part. 3. Connect the single connector end of the power cord to the connector on the back of the transceiver.
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1. Mount the base station antenna as described in its owner's manual. Warning: Use extreme caution when you install or remove a base station antenna. If the antenna starts to fall, let it go! It could contact overheard power lines. If the antenna touches a power line, contact with the antenna, mast, cable, or guy wires can cause electrocution and death. Call the power company to remove the antenna. DO NOT attempt to do so yourself. 2. Connect the antenna to the ANT jack on the back of the transceiver. 3. Connect the transceiver's black power wire to the negative () terminal on the DC power supply. 4. Connect the transceiver's red wire (with in-line fuse holders) to the positive (+) terminal on the DC power supply. 5. Connect the singleconnector end of the power cord to the connector on the back of the transceiver. 6. Connect the DC power supply to a standard AC outlet.
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OFF/VOLUME turns the radio on/off; adjusts the volume RF-G/MIC-G attenuates strong signals; reduces the microphones gain and SSB transmitting power STEP/NB/1 selects the frequency tuning step; turns the noise
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OPERATION
SETTING SQUELCH AND RECEIVING
1. Rotate SQUELCH fully counterclockwise.
3. To turn on the transceiver, rotate OFF/VOLUME clockwise until it clicks. The display lights and the frequency appears. A bar graph also appears which shows the received signals strength.
4. Set OFF/VOLUME to a comfortable listening level. 5. Rotate SQUELCH clockwise until you hear a hissing sound. Then slowly rotate SQUELCH counterclockwise just until the noise stops.
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Note: If the transceiver picks up unwanted weak transmissions, rotate RF-G slightly counterclockwise to decrease the transceivers sensitivity to signals. The transceiver blocks the weak transmissions. 6. Repeatedly press MODE to select the desired band (FM, AM, USB (upper sideband), or LSB (lower sideband)).
TRANSMITTING
Notes: Do not attempt to transmit unless you possess a valid amateur radio license. We recommend you try receiving before you transmit. 1. Follow Steps 17 in Setting Squelch and Receiving on Page 17. 2. Turn MIC-G fully clockwise. 18
3. To transmit, hold down the push-to-talk button on the microphone, hold the microphone 23 inches from your mouth, and speak in a normal tone of voice. TX appears along with a bar graph which shows the strength of your transmission.
4. When you finish transmitting, release the PTT button. TX and the signal strength bars disappear. 5. To turn off the transceiver, rotate OFF/VOLUME counterclockwise until it clicks.
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SPECIAL FEATURES
USING THE SPECIAL FEATURES
Your transceiver has several advanced features that give you additional control and convenience while using it. This list provides additional information about your transceivers special features. Feature Step lets you change the increment you set to tune frequencies in the 10-meter band. Call recalls a specific frequency in memory channel 2. Scan scans incoming signals. Last Channel Recall returns to the last channel that was transmitted. M-LOAD recalls frequencies stored in memory Channels 15. NB (Noise Blanker) reduces electrical noise. Shift lets you set the frequency shift direction and offset frequency. T-LOW (Tone Low) turns the highcut filter on or off. M-SAVE (Memory Save) saves up to five frequencies into memory channels. FINE (Clarifier) tunes in stations or tunes out interference broadcast using an SSB signal. 20 See: Page 21
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Feature RF-G (RF Gain) attenuates strong signals. MIC-G (Microphone Gain) reduces the microphone gain and SSB transmitting power,
Using STEP
Repeatedly press STEP to select the frequency step your transceiver displays when it shows a frequency. As you press STEP, one of the three frequency digits flashes for about 2 seconds to show which digit is selected. The increment that the selected digit displays is: the rightmost digit: 1 kHz the second digit from the right: 10 kHz the third digit from the right: 100 kHz
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Using CALL
The transceivers call memory lets you quickly recall a specific frequency in memory Channel 2. Note: See Using M-SAVE (Memory Save) on Page 25 for more information about storing a frequency in memory channel 2. Press CALL to recall the stored frequency at any time. The frequency flashes. Press CALL again and the last selected frequency appears.
Using SCAN
Press SCAN to scan incoming signals. SCAN appears and the transceiver stops for 5 seconds on each channel when it detects a signal.
To stop scanning, press SCAN or the PTT button on the microphone. SCAN disappears.
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Using M-LOAD
You can recall frequencies stored in memory Channels 15. Note: See Using M-SAVE (Memory Save) on Page 25 for more information about storing frequencies in memory channels. To recall a memory channel, press M-LOAD so L appears, then, press the desired memory channel number.
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Using SHIFT
The transceivers shift function lets you set the transmit frequency shift from the receive frequency in either direction within the range of 0.0 Hz to 990 kHz. Follow these steps to set the frequency shift direction and offset frequency. 1. To set the frequency shift direction to +, press PUSH FUNC then press SHIFT while FUNC appears. +SHIFT appears. Press PUSH FUNC and SHIFT again while FUNC appears to set the frequency shift direction to -. -SHIFT appears. 2. Press PUSH FUNC then SHIFT for about 3 seconds. 000 appears. 3. Rotate TUNE to set the offset frequency to any frequency from 0 to 990 kHz. 4. To exit, hold down PUSH FUNC and SHIFT together for about 3 seconds.
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3. While S appears, press the desired memory channel number. The transceiver stores the frequency you selected into the memory channel you selected. 4. To recall a frequency you stored, see Using M-LOAD on Page 23.
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Handle the transceiver gently and carefully. Dropping it can damage circuit boards and cases and can cause the transceiver to work improperly. Wipe the transceiver with a damp cloth occasionally to keep it looking new. Do not use harsh chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents to clean the transceiver. Modifying or tampering with the transceivers internal components can cause a malfunction and might invalidate its warranty and void your FCC authorization to operate it. If your transceiver is not performing as it should, take it to your local RadioShack store for assistance.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
If your transceiver is not working as it should, these suggestions might help you eliminate the problem. If the transceiver still does not operate properly, take it to your local RadioShack store for assistance. Problem Trouble with reception. Possible Causes The squelch might need to be adjusted. The transmitter might not be set to an operating frequency. The microphone might not be connected. The antenna might not be connected. The receive mode might not be properly set. Trouble with transmission. The antenna might not be connected. The microphone might not be connected. The microphones pushtotalk button might not be fully pressed in. 28 Remedies Adjust the squelch. Tune the transceiver to an operating frequency. Make sure the microphone is connected. Make sure the antenna is connected. Set the receive mode to FM, AM, LSB, or USB. Make sure the antenna is connected. Make sure the microphone is connected. Press the microphones button in fully.
Problem Trouble with transmission (continued) Transceiver does not work at all.
Possible Causes The microphones gain might not be properly set. The power cord might not be connected. The power cords fuse might be blown.
Make sure the power cord is connected. Replace the fuse (see Replacing the Fuse on Page 30).
The transceiver should be serviced only by a qualified radio technician. If you still have problems, take your transceiver to a local RadioShack store for assistance.
NOISE REDUCTION
Because your transceiver is exceptionally quiet, any noise you hear is probably from an external source in your vehicle such as your vehicles alternator, radio, or spark plugs. To solve the problem, you must go to the noise's source. You can determine the noise's source by turning off the engine and operating the transceiver with your vehicle's ignition set to ACC. If the noise decreases, the problem is in your vehicles ignition or electrical system. Here are a few hints to help you reduce or eliminate such noise: Make all transceiver power and antenna wires as short as possible. Route the power wires away from the antenna wires. 29
Be sure that the chassis ground connection is secure. Replace old ignition wires with new, high-voltage, noise suppression wires. Install noise suppressors on your spark plugs, or install new spark plugs that have built in noise suppressors. If problems persist, check your alternator/generator and regulator gauges. You can reduce the noise from these sources by using bypass capacitors at the various output voltage points. Your local RadioShack store has a wide selection of noise suppression accessories.
3. If the fuse is blown, replace it. Use only a standard 11/4 1/4 inch fast-acting fuse with the proper rating. The fuse must be 10 amps.
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Caution: The supplied fuse has the proper ratings. Make sure you replace a fuse only with another fuse of the same rating. 4. Reassemble the fuse holder by squeezing it together until it snaps shut.
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SPECIFICATIONS
GENERAL Frequency Range ........................... 28.000 MHz to 29.699 MHz Tuning Step ......................... 1 kHz/10 kHz/100 kHz (selectable) Frequency Generation ........................... Digital PLL Synthesizer Antenna Connector ............................ 50 ohm coaxial connector Microphone ........................................... Electret condenser type Operating Temperature ................... 4 to 122F (10 to 55C) Power Source ............. 1216V DC, negative or positive ground Speaker ................................................................ 8 ohm, 2 watt Impedance ...................................................................... 50 ohm Dimensions (HWD) ........................... 61/16 23/64 941/64 inches (154 52 248 mm) Weight (without batteries)................................................. 2.65 lb (1.2 kg) Accessories ............................ Microphone, Microphone Holder, Mounting Hardware, Mounting Bracket, DC Power Cord, Spare Fuse RECEIVER Sensitivity .................................................. 0.5 V for 10 dB S/N Audio Output @ 10% THD (External) ................ 2.5 W at 8 ohm Selectivity ................................................................... 50 dB min Intermodulation ........................................................... 60 dB min Distortion ..................................................................... 10% max S/N Ratio .................................................................... 40 dB min IF Rejection ........................................................ 70 dB or better
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TRANSMITTER Power Output ....................................... 7w (AM), 25w (FM/SSB) Distortion ............................................................................... 5% Deviation ......................................................................... 2 kHz S/N Ratio............................................................................ 40 dB Spurious Emission ............................................ 65 dB or better Battery Drain: At max output power ........................... AM Less than 3.0 A, FM Less than 5.0 A, SSB 5.0 A At no modulation ................................. AM Less than 3.0 A, FM Less than 5.0 A, SSB 1.0 A
Specifications are typical; individual units might vary. Specifications are subject to change and improvement without notice.
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NOTES
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