t6m mobile

T6M Mobile TransceiverUser Guide

Handbook Part Number: 31-36000TRM

Handbook Title: T6M Mobile Transceiver User GuideHandbook Part Number: 31-36000TRM

Issue Number: 4-1

Date of Issue: February 2001Published By: Park Air Electronics

NorthfieldsMarket DeepingPeterboroughEngland

Telephone: From UK, 01778 345434From outside UK, 44 1778 345434

Fax: From UK, 01778 342877From outside UK, 44 1778 342877

T6M User GuidePage 2

Amendment 1 to Issue 4 of this user guide has been raised to clarify thereceive specification (change note 4017 refers).

The amendment was incorporated during April 2001.

SAFETY

Warnings

[Failure to comply with warnings can result in personal injury, fire, or electric shock.]

DO NOT operate this equipment with the antenna close to or touching eyes,face, or exposed body parts.

DO NOT hold the transmit (PTT) switch in the ON position when notcommunicating.

DO NOT operate equipment at filling stations.

DO NOT operate equipment in vicinity of explosives or explosive atmospheres.

DO NOT operate equipment at high volume levels. Hearing experts adviseagainst continuous high volume operation. If you experience ringing in yourears, reduce the volume level, or discontinue use.

The Power Amplifier Module used in the T6M mobile transceiver containsberyllium oxide, which is extremely toxic. No instructions within this user guideremove any of the transceiver's covers so users are not exposed to a potentialberyllium hazard. If the transceiver is to be disposed of, users must be aware ofcurrent disposal regulations regarding equipment containing beryllium.


Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulations

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to thecondition that this device does not cause harmful interference.

You are required to obtain a station licence before transmitting from your mobileequipment.

This equipment is only licenced for operation on 25 kHz channel spacing.Operation on 8.33 kHz channel spacing is restricted to European customers.

The mobile transceiver power output must not exceed the output necessary forsatisfactory technical operation taking account of local conditions and the areato be covered.

The mobile transceiver's frequency and parameters should be checked byauthorized service personnel before use, and at least yearly thereafter.


Changes or modifications to the T6M transceiver that are not expressly approvedby Park Air Electronics could void your authority to operate the transceiver.

Foreword

This user guide describes the purpose, installation, and operation of thePark Air Electronics (PAE) T6M mobile transceiver. Read all instructions given in thisuser guide before operating the transceiver.

Trademarks

The following trademarks are used in this user guide.

IBM Is a registered trademark of International Business Machines.

Microsoft Is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the USA andother countries.

Windows Is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the USA andother countries.

Software

Park Air Electronics takes every care to ensure that software supplied on magneticmedia contains no viruses. Users are, however, advised to virus check disks andCD-ROMs before transferring software from these media to your computer equipment.



CONTENTS

SAFETY 3Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulations 4Foreword 5Trademarks 5

Section 1 - Overview

About this User Guide 9Introduction to the T6M Mobile Transceiver 9Operating Modes 9

Normal Mode 9Priority Mode 10Scan Mode 10

Programming the Transceiver's Personality 10

Section 2 - Specification

General 11Dimensions and Weight 12Supply 12Receive Circuit 12Transmit Circuit 12

Section 3 - Installation

Introduction 13Unpacking 14Selecting a Mounting Location 14Installing the Transceiver 15Installing the Microphone 16Installing the Loudspeaker 16Power Cable Installation 17


Installing the Antenna 19Fitting the Antenna to Fibreglass Vehicles 20Serviceability Check 21

Section 4 - Operating Instructions

Introduction 23Programmable Options 24

Display Blanking 24Warning Beeps 24Key Beeps 24Transmit Inhibit 25Maximum Transmit Time 25

Front Panel Display for 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz Channel Spacing 25Fault and Error Codes 27Switching On and Off (Ignition Sense not Connected) 28Switching On and Off (When Ignition Sense is Connected) 28Operating the Radio in Normal Mode 29

Selecting Normal Mode 29Selecting a Channel Frequency 29Transmitting and Receiving 29Switching and Adjusting the Squelch Facility 29

Operating the Radio in Priority Mode 31Selecting Priority Mode 31Selecting a Priority Channel Frequency 31Transmitting and Receiving 31

Operating the Radio in Scan Mode 32Selecting Scan Mode 32Selecting a Scan Group 32Transmitting and Receiving 32


Section 5 - Programming the Radio

Introduction 33Programmable Options 36

Display Blanking 36Warning Beeps 36Key Beeps 36Hold on Scan 37

Installing the Programming Software onto a Laptop, or PC 37Creating a New Personality 37Saving a Personality 42Opening a Saved Personality 43Loading a Personality into the Radio 43Reading a Personality from the Radio 43Printing a Personality Report 44

Section 6 - Spares

Introduction 45List of Spares 45

Section 1 - Overview

Section 1 gives a brief overview of the T6M mobile transceiver.

About this User Guide

This user guide describes the purpose, installation, and operation of thePark Air Electronics (PAE) T6M mobile transceiver. How to programme the requiredchannel frequencies and operating modes using the optional programming kit is alsofully described.

Introduction to the T6M Mobile Transceiver

The T6M multichannel mobile transceiver provides communication within the VHFaeronautical frequency band 118 to 136.9916 MHz. The transceiver provides a nominal8 watt amplitude modulated (AM) output, and operates on both 25 kHz and 8.33 kHzspaced channel frequencies.

Designed for installation within a vehicle, the transceiver operates from a +13.2 volt dcsupply. For vehicles that use a 24 V dc system, or when there must be isolationbetween the battery and equipment, a suitable dc to dc converter must be used.

Operating Modes

Three operating modes are available: Normal, Priority, and Scan.

Normal ModeIn normal mode, any channel frequency programmed into the transceiver can beselected using the front panel keys. Up to 760 channel frequencies can be programmedinto the radio's personality.


Priority ModePriority mode allows faster access to frequently used channels. Up to 15 of the channelfrequencies that are available in Normal mode can be programmed into the priority list.

Scan ModeIf scan mode is selected, the radio scans a number of predefined channels searchingfor a busy one. When a busy channel is found, and depending on the programmedoptions, the radio remains tuned to that channel. Up to 15 scan groups can be set up,each group containing up to 15 channel frequencies.

Programming the Transceiver's Personality

The radio's personality is programmed into its internal memory and defines up to760 channel frequencies, the required operating modes, and various secondaryoptions. When a T6M is received from PAE, the personality is either:

A personality programmed to the user's specific requirements.

or,

A default personality that covers the 760 channels (25 kHz spaced) available inthe VHF aeronautical frequency band. No frequencies are allocated to thePriority list, and no scan groups are set.

A programming kit is available from PAE. This allows a new personality to beprogrammed into the radio at any time.

The kit comprises software loaded on a CD-ROM or floppy disk, and a programminglead. An IBM compatible laptop, or Personal Computer (PC) running MicrosoftWindows 95 or 98 must be available to reprogramme the radio.

To order the programming kit, contact PAE quoting part number 70-T6MPMKIT.


Section 2 - Specification

Section 2 gives the specification of the T6M mobile transceiver.

General

The general parameters of the T6M mobile transceiver are listed below.

Operation Simplex VHF AM transmit and receive.Operating modes Normal, priority, and scan.Channel bandwidth 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz.Channel increment 8.33 kHz.Frequency range (at 25 kHz) Between 118 and 136.975 MHz.Frequency range (at 8.33 kHz) Between 118 and 136.9916 MHz.Frequency stability 1 ppmChannel selection In Normal mode up to 760 channel frequencies

can be programmed into the radio. Thechannels can have 25 kHz spacing, 8.33 kHzspacing, or a mixture of both.

Priority mode allows up to 15 of the storedchannels to be allocated to a priority list.Channel selection can then be limited to thosefrequencies in the priority list.

In Scan mode, the radio can have up to 15scan groups each containing up to 15 channelfrequencies.

Duty cycle (receive) Continuous.Duty cycle (transmit) 25% with a maximum transmit time of 5

minutes. Longer transmit times, or a higherduty cycle, reduces the output power by 6 dB.

Operating temperature range Between -20C and +55C.Storage temperature range Between -40C and +70C.Humidity Can be operated in humidity up to 80%.


Dimensions and Weight

The dimensions and weight are:

Width 177 mm.

Height 50 mm.Depth 228 mm.Weight 1.75 kg.

Supply

The transceiver requires the following supply:

Input voltage 13.2 V dc (nominal 12 V dc system).Current Receive: 1 A (nominal).

Transmit: 5 A (nominal).Receive Circuit

The specification of the receive circuit is listed below.

Sensitivity -102 dBm at 30% modulation depth for12 dB SINAD (ITU - T).

Selectivity With 8.33 kHz spacing: 60 dB at 8.33 kHz.With 25 kHz spacing: 70 dB at 25 kHz.

Intermodulation suppression >70 dB.Spurious response suppression >80 dB.Audio power output 4 W into 4 ohm loudspeaker (

Section 3 - Installation

Section 3 gives the instructions necessary to install the T6M mobile transceiver intoyour vehicle.

Introduction

The mobile transceiver is designed to operate from a 13.2 V dc (12 V nominal) negativeground electrical system. This type of electrical system has the negative batteryterminal connected directly to the vehicle chassis. For vehicles with a 24 V battery, orwhere there must be isolation between the battery and the equipment, a suitabledc-to-dc converter should be used.

During installation, disconnect the vehicle's main positive dc supply cable from thebattery to prevent damage from accidental short circuits during the installation.

In some cases this may cause problems with the loss of engine managementinformation or radio key codes. Check to see if this is the case before disconnecting thebattery. Power saver devices are available that plug into the cigar lighter or accessoriessocket and prevent loss of memory information on vehicle systems.


Before the transceiver is put into operational service, the required personalityinformation should be programmed into the radio. This information, includes channelfrequencies and operating modes.

When a T6M is received from PAE, the personality is either:


or,

A default personality that covers the 760 channels (25 kHz spaced) availablein the VHF aeronautical frequency band. No frequencies are allocated to thePriority list, and no scan groups are set.

A programming kit is available from PAE. This allows a new personality to beprogrammed and downloaded. The radio does not have to be removed from itsinstalled position to download a new personality.

Note that operation using 8.33 kHz channel spacing is not currently allowed withinthe USA.

Unpacking

Unpack the consignment and check the contents. The following items should beincluded:

(1) T6M mobile transceiver (quantity 1).(2) Installation kit comprising,

Mounting bracket for the transceiver (quantity 1). Loudspeaker (quantity 1). Microphone (quantity 1). Microphone rest (quantity 1). Fixing kit knobs (quantity 2). Rubber grip (quantity 2). Power lead (quantity 1). Fuse holder (quantity 1). Fuse 7.5 amp (quantity 1). Blue in-line crimp connector (quantity 1). Screw No. 6, inch long (quantity 2). Screw No. 8, inch long (quantity 6).

(3) Whip antenna (complete with approximately 4.8 m of coaxial cable).

Selecting a Mounting Location

Choose a location for the radio's mounting bracket. Avoid mounting in small enclosedspaces (for example, glove lockers). To prevent overheating, the radio should have anunobstructed airflow space of at least 20 mm at the rear. Suitable mounting placesinclude the dash, console or transmission hump. Ensure that the radio:

Is easy to operate when seat belts are worn.

Does not inconvenience driver or passengers when seated, or when entering orexiting the vehicle.

Will not injure occupants if the vehicle suffers an impact. Does not interrupt the airflow from the heater or air-conditioning vents.


Installing the Transceiver

To install the transceiver:

(1) Ensuring that the mounting bracket fixing screws will not damage any cables,brake or fuel lines, fit the bracket using the No. 8 self-tapping screwsprovided. Mounting bracket dimensions and fixing hole centres are shownbelow.

(2) Fit the transceiver in the bracket using the rubber grips and fixing knobsincluded in the installation kit. The rubber grips can be fitted in two ways. Oneway locks the unit rigidly in the bracket; the other provides a friction mountallowing the unit to be tilted to the desired angle. This is illustrated on the nextpage. Note the orientation of the rubber grips that are fitted at each side of theradio.


150 mm

48

mm

189 mm

52 mm

Hole

4.5 mm

diameter

Transceiver's Mounting Bracket

Installing the Microphone

Fit the microphone rest in a convenient location using the screws provided. Plug themicrophone lead into the socket located on the underside of the transceiver. Fit thestrain relief grommet into place.

Installing the Loudspeaker

Install the loudspeaker where it can be easily heard, using the mounting bracket andscrews provided. The loudspeaker is connected after the power lead has beeninstalled.


Alternative Mounting Arrangements

Power Cable Installation

The power cable comprises red and black cables that connect to the battery, a twin-wireloudspeaker connection (orange and violet) and a yellow ignition sense lead. All thesewires are terminated on a Molex 8-way mini-fit connector.

Note that the power cable supplied with some radios may also contain a green and awhite wire. These wires are not used and should be tied back after the power cable isinstalled.

To install the power cable, refer to the illustration shown above, and:

(1) Route the power cable to the battery and cut it to the required length. If it isnecessary to drill a hole in the firewall or bulkhead to route the cable through,then fit a grommet and seal it when the installation is complete.

(2) Fit the in-line fuse holder at the battery end of the positive (red) lead. The fuseprotects against short circuits in the cable run, so must be located as close tothe battery as possible. The fuse holder is fitted as shown in the illustration onthe next page, and as follows:


Installation Connections

(a) When received the fuse holder's connecting wire forms a loopconnecting input to output. Cut the black wire loop at the centre.

(b) Using the supplied blue in-line crimp connector, connect the end ofthe power lead's red wire to the fuse holder.

(c) Connect the other end of the fuse holder to the + battery terminal.(d) Fit the 7.5 amp fuse and close the fuse holder's cover.

(3) Connect the power lead's black cable to the negative (-) battery terminalconnector.

Notes: Both supply leads should be connected directly to the vehiclebattery terminals. Connection to other points may result inincreased interference from the vehicles electrical system andexcessive voltage drop. If noise is still a problem, a dc noise filtershould be fitted.

In some cases a master isolation switch is fitted to the vehicle(for example, in the case of emergency vehicles) and it may be alegal requirement to wire to the switched side of the supply.

(4) If required, connect the yellow ignition sense lead to the ignition switchedsupply on the vehicle. If this facility is not required, tie the yellow lead backusing suitable tape.When ignition sense is connected, the radio switches on when the vehicle'signition is switched on. The radio cannot be switched off while the ignition ison. When the vehicle's ignition is switched off, the radio remains on for twohours before switching itself off. The radio can, however, be manuallyswitched off during the two hour period by pressing the PWR button.


Connecting the Fuse Holder

(BT6MBS-06)

(5) Connect the loudspeaker to the power cable by mating the two halves of theloudspeaker cable's in-line connector.

(6) Plug the power cable into the power supply in-line connector on the radio,and reconnect the positive lead to the battery.

Installing the Antenna

The whip antenna is supplied with approximately 4.8 m of coaxial cable and terminatedat the radio end with a BNC connector.

For best all round performance the antenna should be mounted in the centre of the roof.Alternative positions give degraded performance, the numbers on the diagram belowgiving the order of preference. The antenna radiation patterns, shown on the next page,illustrate the difference between centre roof and wing mounting.

Siting the antenna is a compromise between performance and practicality. If a sunroofis fitted to the vehicle, locate the antenna so that it will not be damaged when thesunroof is opened. Mounting at the front of a sunroof can cause annoyance due to windnoise from the antenna when the sunroof is opened.


To install the antenna:

(1) Abrade the underside of the antenna hole with coarse emery cloth to removepaint and produce a clean, bright bare metal surface. This will provide a goodcontact for the antenna ground. Smear the surface lightly with silicone greaseprior to tightening the antenna mount to prevent corrosion.

(2) Route, but do not connect, the antenna feeder cable to the radio.(3) Check for low resistance (

Serviceability Check

When the radio, its accessories, and antenna are installed, carry out a serviceabilitycheck as follows:

(1) Connect a directional power, or VSWR, meter in series with the antennafeed. A Peak Envelope Power (PEP) meter should be used.

(2) Start the vehicle and switch on the radio. Check that the radio's front panelindicators light, and that the startup warble is heard.

(3) Allow the vehicle to idle for one minute to ensure that the battery voltage is atthe correct level for testing.

(4) Select a suitable channel that can be used for test purposes and press thePTT to cause the radio to transmit. Measure the PEP and VSWR.

(5) PEP should be between 7 and 30 Watts, dependent on modulation, andVSWR less than 1.5:1.

(6) Carry out a functional check by setting up a voice call. Check that thereceived noise is acceptable. If not it will be necessary to carry outsuppression of the vehicle electrical system.

It is important to check that the radio does not affect the operation of any vehiclesystems such as lights, electronic ignition, engine management system and anti-lockbrakes. Other electronic devices fitted to the vehicle, such as radio/cassette player orcellular telephone, should also be checked. Check that these systems still operatecorrectly when the radio is transmitting.


Intentionally Blank


Section 4 - Operating Instructions

This section gives the instructions for operating the T6M mobile transceiver after it hasbeen correctly installed. Users should note that the facilities available to an operatordepend on how the radio's personality has been configured.

Introduction

The mobile transceiver provides transmission and reception on any 25 kHz, or8.33 kHz, spaced channel frequency within the VHF aeronautical frequency bandbetween 118 and 136.9916 MHz. However, only those frequencies and operatingmodes that are pre-programmed into the radio can be selected. The radio can bereprogrammed at any time using the supplied software. Instructions for doing this aregiven in Section 5 starting on page 33.

Three operating modes are available: Normal, Priority, and Scan. In Normal mode, anyfrequency programmed into the system can be selected using the radio's front panelcontrols. Priority mode is similar to Normal mode, but allows faster selection of up to 15frequently used channels.

In Scan mode, the radio scans a number of pre-defined channels searching for a busyone. When a busy channel is found, and depending on the programmed options, theradio remains tuned to that channel ready for use. Scanning can be resumed at anytime.


When a T6M is received from PAE, the personality is either:


or,

A default personality that covers the 760 channels (25 kHz spaced) availablein the VHF aeronautical frequency band. No frequencies are allocated to thePriority list, and no scan groups are set.

A programming kit is available from PAE. This allows a new personality to beprogrammed and downloaded. The radio does not have to be removed from itsinstalled position to download a new personality.

Note that operation using 8.33 kHz channel spacing is not currently allowed withinthe USA.

Programmable Options

A number of options can be programmed into the radio's personality. The options aredetailed in the following paragraphs.

Display BlankingDisplay blanking is applicable only to Normal and Priority modes; not Scan mode.

When display blanking is programmed, the radio's normal frequency display is replacedby a flashing bar if the radio is not keyed during the display blanking time period(between 10 and 300 seconds).

Example,

Display blanking is programmedDisplay blanking time is 60 secondsSelected channel frequency is 121.500 MHz.

In this example, the display normally shows 121.500. If the transmitter is notkeyed for 60 seconds, the display changes to a flashing bar.

Normal frequency display is reinstated when the radio is keyed, or when theVOL or VOL button is pressed. Note that the display can be reinstated bypressing any other button, but doing so may also alter other settings.

Warning BeepsWhen programmed, the following conditions cause a warning beep to be heard whenan attempt is made to key the transmitter:

The radio has a fault that prevents transmissions.

Trying to key the radio on a channel frequency that has the Transmit Inhibitoption set to Always Inhibit.

Trying to key the radio on a busy channel that has the Inhibit if Busy optionselected.

Imminent transmitter time out.

The volume of warning beeps is set in the personality (a value between 1 and 7); thefront panel volume control does not affect the beeps.

Key BeepsThis option, when programmed, produces a single beep whenever a button is pressedon the radio's front panel. The volume of the beep is the same as the Warning beep.


Transmit InhibitAny frequency programmed into the radio can be made receive only. To achieve this,the transmit function on the channel is always inhibited, or the transmit facility can beinhibited only when the channel is busy. If warning sounds have been set, a warning isheard when an attempt is made to key the transmitter.

Maximum Transmit TimeA maximum continuous transmit time can be programmed into the radio's personality.The options are:

No limit.

A limit that can be set between 30 and 300 seconds.

If a limit has been set, and warning sounds have been set, the radio produceswarning beeps 10 seconds before the transmission time expires.

Front Panel Display for 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz Channel Spacing

When selecting an 8.33 kHz channel frequency, the displayed frequency differs fromthe actual channel frequency. Table 1 on page 26 shows the pattern used for 25 kHzand 8.33 kHz spaced channel frequencies from 118.000 MHz to 118.1916 MHz. Thepattern is the same for any frequency within the radio's frequency range. The displayconforms to ICAO convention for 8.33 kHz operation.

Note that operation using 8.33 kHz channel spacing within the USA is not currentlyallowed under FCC regulations.


Table 1. Display for 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz Channel Spacing

Actual Frequency(to 4 decimal places)

ChannelSpacing

Displayed Frequencyat Radio's Front Panel

118.0000 MHz118.0000 MHz118.0083 MHz118.0166 MHz

118.0250 MHz118.0250 MHz118.0333 MHz118.0416 MHz

118.0500 MHz118.0500 MHz118.0583 MHz118.0666 MHz

118.0750 MHz118.0750 MHz118.0833 MHz118.0916 MHz

118.1000 MHz118.1000 MHz118.1083 MHz118.1166 MHz

118.1250 MHz118.1250 MHz118.1333 MHz118.1416 MHz

118.1500 MHz118.1500 MHz118.1583 MHz118.1666 MHz

118.1750 MHz118.1750 MHz118.1833 MHz118.1916 MHz

25 kHz8.33 kHz8.33 kHz8.33 kHz








118.000 MHz118.005 MHz118.010 MHz118.015 MHz

118.025 MHz118.030 MHz118.035 MHz118.040 MHz

118.050 MHz118.055 MHz118.060 MHz118.065 MHz

118.075 MHz118.080 MHz118.085 MHz118.090 MHz

118.100 MHz118.105 MHz118.110 MHz118.115 MHz

118.125 MHz118.130 MHz118.135 MHz118.140 MHz

118.150 MHz118.155 MHz118.160 MHz118.165 MHz

118.175 MHz118.180 MHz118.185 MHz118.190 MHz


Fault and Error Codes

A number of fault and error codes are shown on the radio's display if an internal fault isdetected. The codes, their meaning, and remedial action are detailed in Table 2.

Table 2. Fault and Error Codes

DisplayedFault or

Error CodeTitle Meaning

F1Synthesiserfailure

An internal fault on the synthesiser has beendetected. Switch off the transceiver and switch onagain after a few minutes. If the fault persists, thetransceiver should be replaced with a serviceablespare. The faulty unit should be returned to PAE,or your authorized agent.

F2Unstableoutput

An internal fault on the power amplifier has beendetected. Switch off the transceiver and switch onagain after a few minutes. If the fault persists, thetransceiver should be replaced with a serviceablespare. The faulty unit should be returned to PAE,or your authorized agent.

F4Overtemperature

This condition may occur if the transmitter's dutycycle has been exceeded, or when transmitting forlong periods. The fault should clear if the radio isnot keyed and allowed to cool.

F16

F32

Low supplyvoltage

High supplyvoltage

These two fault codes indicate the vehicle'sbattery supply is too high, or too low.

cErr Critical errorThis error is displayed when the radio is initiallyswitched on and no, or a corrupted, personality isdetected. Refer to Programming the Radio onpage 33.


Switching On and Off (Ignition Sense not Connected)

To switch on the radio when the ignition sense facility is not used:

(1) Press the Power button for approximately one second until the display readsOn. Then release the button.

(2) Check that a warbling sound is heard for a few seconds and then a channelfrequency is displayed.

(3) The radio is now ready for use.To switch off the radio, press the Power button until the display reads Off. Thenrelease the button.

Switching On and Off (When Ignition Sense is Connected)

When ignition sense is connected (see Installation procedures) the radio switches onwhen the vehicle's ignition is switched on. The radio cannot be switched off while theignition is on. When the vehicle's ignition is switched off, the radio remains on for twohours before switching itself off. The radio can, however, be manually switched offduring the two hour period by pressing the PWR button until the display reads Off.


Before operating the transceiver, users must be conversant with the safetywarnings given on page 3.

Mobile Transceiver Front PanelPowerButton

Operating the Radio in Normal Mode

Operating the radio in Normal mode requires the following operations. Each operationis explained in following paragraphs.

(1) Select Normal mode if not currently selected.(2) Select the required channel frequency.(3) Transmit using the fist microphone, and receive through the loudspeaker.(4) Adjusting, if necessary, the Squelch facility.

Selecting Normal ModeNormal mode is active when neither Priority mode or Scan mode is selected. If Prioritymode is selected, the display shows P every few seconds; if Scan mode is selected,the display shows Scn. To select Normal mode if currently in Priority or Scan mode:

To select Normal mode if currently in Priority mode, press the CH or CHbutton.

To select Normal mode if currently in Scan mode, press the SCN button.

Selecting a Channel FrequencyTo select the required channel frequency, press the CH or CH button to scroll up ordown through the channel frequencies that are programmed into the radio. Release thebutton when the required frequency is displayed.

In conjunction with the CH and CH buttons, the SEL and SEL buttons can beused to step 10 channels at a time.

Transmitting and ReceivingTo key the transmitter press the fist microphone's PTT button. Check that the radio's Txindicator lights, and then speak clearly into the microphone.

Reception is heard through the loudspeaker. The volume is adjusted using the VOLand VOL buttons. When a signal is received, the radio's busy indicator lights.

Switching and Adjusting the Squelch FacilityThe radio has an adjustable squelch facility that can also be turned on and off. Thesquelch facility, when correctly set, mutes unwanted background noise when no signalsare being received.

During normal use of the radio the squelch facility should be switched on. After initiallysetting the squelch level, there should be no reason to adjust it unless a problem isevident. The symptoms of an incorrectly adjusted squelch level are:


Background noise is continuously, or intermittently heard when no signals arebeing received. If this is the case, the setting is too low.

Weak signals (signals below the squelch threshold) are not being received. Ifthis is the case, the setting is too high.

To Switch On the Squelch

To switch on the squelch facility:

(1) Press the SQL button.(2) Check that the display shows an S and the current level (a number between

1 and 20).(3) Check that after a few seconds the display changes to show the currently

selected channel frequency. The squelch facility is now on.To Switch Off the Squelch

To switch off the squelch facility:


1 and 20).(3) Press the SQL button while the display is showing S and the current level.(4) Check that the display shows S OFF.(5) Check that after a few seconds the display changes to show the currently

selected channel frequency. The squelch facility is now off.To Adjust the Squelch LevelTo adjust the squelch facility:


1 and 20).(3) Press the VOL button to increase the squelch threshold, or the VOL

button to decrease it. The squelch should be set to the lowest thresholdsetting (a number between 1 and 20) that eliminates background noise whenno signal is being received.

(4) After the required setting is selected, press no more buttons and check thatafter a few seconds the display changes to show the currently selectedchannel frequency. The squelch facility is now set.


Operating the Radio in Priority Mode

Priority mode allows faster access to frequently used channel frequencies. Up to 15channel frequencies can be programmed into the radio's priority list. The Priority facilitymust be programmed into the radio before it can be selected, or used.

Operating the radio in Priority mode requires the following operations. Each operationis explained in following paragraphs.

(1) Select Priority mode if not currently selected.(2) Select the required channel frequency.(3) Transmit using the fist microphone, and receive using the radio's internal

loudspeaker.

Selecting Priority ModeSelect Priority mode by pressing the PRI button. When selected, the display shows Pevery few seconds.

Selecting a Priority Channel FrequencyTo select the required channel frequency, press the SEL or SEL button to scroll upor down through the priority channel frequencies that are programmed into the radio.Release the button when the required frequency is displayed.

Transmitting and ReceivingTo transmit, key the transmitter by pressing the fist microphone's PTT button. Checkthat the radio's Tx indicator lights, and then speak clearly into the microphone.

Reception is heard through the loudspeaker. The volume is adjusted using the VOLand VOL buttons. When a signal is received, the radio's busy indicator lights.

If the squelch facility requires adjusting, refer to To Adjust the Squelch Level onpage 30.


Operating the Radio in Scan Mode

In this mode the radio scans a number of pre-defined channel frequencies searching fora busy one. When a busy channel is found, the radio provides reception on thatchannel. The Scan facility must be programmed into the radio before it can be selected,or used.

Note A channel is defined as busy when it is receiving a signal strong enough tooverride the squelch setting.

What happens after a busy channel is found depends on how the radio is programmed.There are two possible options: Hold and Pause.

If Hold is programmed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel until theCH button is pressed to resume scanning.

If pause is programmed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel for sixseconds, then automatically resumes scanning (even though the channelremains busy). If during the six seconds the radio is keyed, or the CH button ispressed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel; scanning does notresume until the CH button is pressed again.

The radio can be programmed with up to 15 scan groups, each containing up to 15channel frequencies. Squelch is automatically switched on when scan mode isselected. Display blanking does not operate in scan mode.

Selecting Scan ModeTo select Scan mode, press the SCN button. Check that the display shows Scn and anumber between 1 and 15; the number corresponds to the currently selected scangroup.

Selecting a Scan GroupWhen in Scan mode, the required scan group (a number between 1 and 15) is selectedby pressing the SEL or SEL button.

Transmitting and ReceivingTo transmit when the scan function is on hold, or pause, key the transmitter by pressingthe fist microphone's PTT button. Check that the radio's Tx indicator lights, and thenspeak clearly into the microphone.

Reception is heard through the loudspeaker. The volume is adjusted using the VOLand VOL buttons. When a signal is received, the radio's busy indicator lights. If thesquelch facility requires adjusting, refer to To Adjust the Squelch Level on page 30.The squelch cannot be switched off in scan mode.


Section 5 - Programming the Radio

This section describes how a personality is compiled and then downloaded into theradio's internal memory.

Introduction

During manufacture, the T6M transceiver is programmed with a default personality, orwith a personality as per the user's requirements.

Note A personality is the programme that defines the radio's channel frequencies,operating modes, and other options.

A new personality can be compiled and loaded into the radio at any time using theprogramming kit (70-T6MPMKIT) available from PAE. The kit contains CD-ROM orfloppy disk based software and a programming lead. A laptop computer, or PC, must beavailable to compile the personality.

The following topics and procedures are detailed in this section:

Programmable options (see page 36). Installing the programming software onto a laptop computer, or PC (see

page 37). Creating a new personality (see page 37). Saving a personality (see page 42). Opening a saved personality (see page 43). Loading a personality into the radio (see page 43). Reading a personality from the radio (see page 43). Printing a personality report (see page 44).


Table 3. Programming Options

Option Range Default Notes

Display blanking On or off Off See Display Blanking onpage 36.

Display blankingtime

10 to 300seconds 60 seconds

See Display Blanking onpage 36.

Maximumtransmit time

30 to 300seconds, or0 (unlimited)

180 seconds Limits the maximumcontinuous transmit time.

Hold on scanmode On or off On

See Hold on Scan Modeon page 37.

Key beeps On or off On See Key Beeps onpage 36.

Warning beeps On or off On See Warning Beeps onpage 36.

Warning beepvolume 1 to 7 3

See Warning Beeps onpage 36.

Personalitydescription

46 characteralphanumericstring

Empty stringA free format text stringthat defines the radiospersonality.

Use channelstrings Yes or no No

Defines whether channelfrequencies are toinclude descriptivestrings. Selecting Yes forthis option reduces themaximum number ofchannels that can bestored from 760 to 400.

Busy on time 0.1 to 5 seconds 0.5 secondsSquelch must be open forthis time before achannel is considered tobe busy.


Option Range Default Notes

Offset channels On or off On

When set to on, the radioscans for the strongestfrequency within a25 kHz channel. Alwaysset to On.

Frequency 118.000 to136.9916 MHz

760 (25 kHzspaced)channels from118.000 to136.975 MHz

Enter this in ICAO format(see Table 1 onpage 26); this formatautomatically defines thefrequency and thebandwidth.

Priority channel Yes or no NoUp to 15 channels can bedefined as prioritychannels.

Scan group 1 to 15 or notassigned

No scangroupsassigned

Up to 15 channels can beassigned to each of 15scan groups. A channelfrequency can beincluded in more thanone group.

Transmitinhibited

Never inhibitAlways inhibitInhibit if busy

Never inhibit

This option can be usedto prevent the radiotransmitting on anyparticular channelfrequency.

Identificationstring

46 characteralphanumericstring

Empty stringA free format text stringthat describes thechannel frequency.

Base Enabled ordisabled DisabledMust be disabled forcorrect operation of thetransceiver.


Programmable Options

Display BlankingDisplay blanking is applicable only to Normal and Priority modes; not Scan mode.

When display blanking is enabled, the radio's normal frequency display is replaced by aflashing bar if the radio is not keyed during the display blanking time period.

Example,

Display blanking is enabledDisplay blanking time is 60 secondsSelected channel frequency is 121.500 MHz.

In this example, the display normally shows 121.500. If the transmitter is notkeyed for 60 seconds, the display changes to a flashing bar.

Normal frequency display is reinstated when the radio is keyed, or when theVOL or VOL button is pressed. Note that the display can be reinstated bypressing any other button, but doing so may also alter radio settings.

Warning BeepsWhen enabled, the following conditions cause a warning beep to be heard when anattempt is made to key the transmitter:

The radio has a fault that prevents transmissions.

Trying to key the radio on a channel frequency that has the Transmit Inhibitoption set to Always Inhibit.

Trying to key the radio on a busy channel that has the Inhibit if Busy optionselected.

Imminent transmitter time out.

The volume of warning beeps is set in the personality (a value between 1 and 7); thefront panel volume control does not affect the beeps.

Key BeepsThis option, when enabled, produces a single beep whenever a button is pressed onthe radio's front panel. The volume of the beep is the same as the Warning beep.


Hold on ScanWhen in scan mode, what happens after a busy channel is found depends on how theradio is programmed. There are two possible options: Hold and Pause.

If Hold is programmed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel until theCH button is pressed to resume scanning.

If pause is programmed, the radio remains tuned to the busy channel for sixseconds, then automatically resumes scanning. If during the six seconds theradio is keyed, or the CH button is pressed, the radio remains tuned to thebusy channel; scanning does not resume until the CH button is pressedagain.

Installing the Programming Software onto a Laptop, or PC

The programming software is supplied on a CD-ROM or floppy disk. The softwareshould be installed onto a laptop computer, or PC, running Windows 95 or 98. Toinstall the software:

(1) Insert the CD-ROM or floppy disk into the computer's appropriate drive.(2) From Windows Explorer, select the appropriate drive, and run the

programme called Setup.exe.(3) Follow the on-screen instructions. The programming files are stored in the

directory C:\Program Files\PAE unless a different directory is specifiedduring installation. Icons, and an uninstall programme are automaticallycreated during installation.

Creating a New Personality

This procedure creates a new personality for use by the radio. The personality includesall channel frequencies, operating modes and programmable options that are requiredwhen the radio is in operational use. When the personality has been compiled, it can beloaded into the radio's memory by connecting the laptop (or PC) to the radio using theprogramming lead.

To create a new personality:

(1) At the laptop (or PC) run the PAE programmer software. Check that theGeneral page (see page 38) is displayed. If the Frequencies page isdisplayed, select the General tab.

(2) From the menu-bar select File then New. This action resets all options to thedefault value and clears all entries, except one, in the frequency table.


(3) Use Channel String. Decide if you wish to store descriptive text for any of thechannel frequencies that will be programmed. If you do, use the mouse toensure the box is checked. If you do not wish to use this facility, use themouse to ensure the box is empty.Notes

If the Use Channel Strings facility is selected, the maximum numberof channel frequencies that can be stored is reduced from 760 to 400.

Descriptive text is shown on the frequency list within this programme; it isnot displayed at the radio.


General Page

[Note that the status line at the bottom of the page displays help messages when themouse pointer is placed over a programmable option.]

(4) Maximum Transmit Time. This setting alters the maximum time thetransmitter can be keyed. Key in a value between 30 and 300 (seconds), or ifno limit is required, enter 0. If a limit has been set, and warning beeps are set,a warning is heard 10 seconds before the radio stops transmitting.

(5) Display Blanking. Display blanking is described on page 32. If you requirethis facility use the mouse to ensure the box is checked. If you do not wish touse this facility, use the mouse to ensure the box is empty.

(6) Display Blanking Time. Enter a number between 60 and 300 (seconds). Thisis the time used when the display blanking facility is selected to be active.Display blanking is described on page 36.

(7) Warning Beeps. Warning beeps, as described on page 36, can be set to onor off. To set them to on use the mouse to ensure the box is checked. Toswitch them off, ensure the box is empty.

(8) Warning Beep Volume. The volume of warning beeps (if used) isrepresented by a figure between 1 and 7. Enter the required value in the box.

(9) Hold in Scan Mode. This facility, which is only applicable to scan mode, isexplained on page 37. When this box is checked, hold in scan mode isselected; if not checked, pause in scan mode is selected.

(10) Busy On Time. This is the time a radio must be busy, when scan mode isselected, before the radio holds, or is paused. Enter a value between 0.1 and5 seconds.

(11) Key Beeps. When key beeps are enabled, a single beep is heard whenevera button is pressed on the radio's front panel. The volume of the beep is thesame as the Warning beep. To enable this facility, check the box; to disableit, ensure the box is empty.

(12) Base. This check box must always be left empty (unchecked). If it displays atick (checked), the radio will not operate correctly.

(13) COM1 or COM2 Selection. Either Com port 1, or Com port 2, can be selectedfrom the drop-down menu. This selection determines which Com port on thelaptop, or PC, the radio must be connected to when transferring thepersonality to the radio.

(14) Offset Channels. The offset channels box should always be checked. This isone of the radio's internal characteristics. It does not refer to offset frequencychannels as defined by ICAO.

(15) Personality Description. A unique name for the personality can be enteredhere (maximum of 46 characters).

(16) When all fields on the General page are correctly configured, use the mouseand click on the Frequencies tab. Check that the Frequencies page is shown(see next page).


(17) When the Frequencies page is first selected there will be one defaultfrequency shown. If this frequency is required leave it as it is; if not, click inthe frequency box and change the frequency to that required.Note

Enter frequencies in ICAO format. The software recognizes the frequencyand appropriate channel spacing (Width). There is no need to manuallyenter the channel spacing. The ICAO format is illustrated on page 26.

(18) If the frequency is required to be included in the Priority list, key in Y in thepriority column. If not required, ensure the column reads No.

(19) If the frequency is required to be included in a Scan group, enter the scangroup number (between 1 and 15) in the scan group column. If the frequencyis to be included in more that one scan group, enter the group numbers,separating each with a comma. Note that up to 15 frequencies can beincluded in each scan group.


Frequencies Page

(20) The Tx Inhibit facility must now be set for the frequency. This facilitydetermines when the radio can transmit. Three options are allowed: Never. Key in N. This means the inhibit function is never enabled. The

transmitter can be keyed at any time, including at times when the channelis busy.

Busy. Key in B. This means the inhibit function is enabled when thechannel is busy. The transmitter can however be keyed at all other times.

Always. Key in A. This means the inhibit function is always enabled. Thechannel is therefore receive only and the transmitter can never bekeyed.

(21) If the Channel String option was selected from the General page, descriptivetext (maximum of 16 characters) can be keyed into the Identity column.

(22) One frequency channel entry is now complete. Further channels can beentered in the same way by clicking on the Add channels box. To delete anyentered channel, highlight the frequency and click on the Delete channel box.When all the required frequency channels have been entered, click on theVerify and sort the table box. Any errors made when compiling thefrequencies page are automatically identified to the user.

(23) As an alternative to manually entering frequency channels, and when manychannels must be entered, a range of frequencies can be entered. To do this,click on the Fill table box and check that the Add channels sub-page isdisplayed.


Add Channels Sub-Page

(24) From the Add channels sub-page, enter the first and last frequencies in therequired range. From the drop-down menu, select the channel spacing(bandwidth); this can be 25 kHz, 8.33 kHz, or both. From the drop-downmenu select the Transmit inhibit condition (Always, Never, or Busy). Whencomplete, click on the Add channels box. After the list of frequencies isdisplayed on the Frequencies page, any individual frequency can beamended, for example adding it to the priority list, as required. When all therequired frequency channels have been entered, click on the Verify and sortthe table box. Any errors made when compiling the frequencies page areautomatically identified to the user.

(25) When a lot of frequencies are entered and it is required to amend the entry,for example adding it to the priority list, a quick method of displaying thefrequency is by clicking on the Find Channel box. This displays the Findfrequency sub-page. Enter the frequency on the sub-page and click on Findit. The frequency is then displayed on the Frequencies Page. After amendingthe entry, click on the Verify and sort the table box. Any errors made areautomatically identified to the user.

Saving a Personality

When a personality has been compiled, it should be saved. To do this:

(1) From the programming menu, select File, then Save As.(2) When the Save As window is displayed enter a file name for the personality.

The file name must have the extension .PER.

(3) Click on Save to store the personality. Before the save process, thepersonality is automatically checked for any errors. If errors do exist they arehighlighted to the user.

(4) If the save is successful, the file name appears at the top of the programmingwindow. At any time, the personality can be edited and saved using the samefilename.


Find Frequency Sub-Page

Opening a Saved Personality

To open a previously saved personality:

(1) From the programming menu, select File, then Open.(2) Select one of the personality files and click on Open.

Loading a Personality into the Radio

Use the following procedure to load a personality into the radio:

(1) Switch off the laptop (or PC) and the radio.(2) At the radio, disconnect the microphone from the transceiver. Replace it with

the programming lead.(3) Connect the other end of the programming lead to the laptop's (or PC's) Com

port 1 or Com port 2. Note that the appropriate port is set in the personality.The connected port must match that stated in the personality. Check, andamend if necessary,

(4) Switch on the radio and the laptop. At the radio check that Pr is shown on thefront panel display.

(5) Ensure the programming software is running and display the requiredpersonality on screen.

(6) From the programming menu-bar select Program radio and thenPersonality.

The programmer automatically verifies the personality is valid and downloads it to theradio. If it is not valid the nature of the error will be displayed. The progress of theprogramming operation is displayed on the status line at the bottom of the programmingscreen.

When programming is complete, switch off the radio and laptop, remove theprogramming lead, and reconnect the radio's microphone.

Reading a Personality from the Radio

To read a personality from the radio:

(1) Switch off the laptop (or PC) and the radio.(2) At the radio, disconnect the microphone from the transceiver. Replace it with

the programming lead.(3) Connect the other end of the programming lead to the laptop's (or PC's) Com

port 1 or Com port 2. Note that the appropriate port is set in the personality.The connected port must match that stated in the personality. Check, andamend if necessary.


(4) Switch on the radio and the laptop. At the radio check that Pr is shown on thefront panel display.

(5) Ensure the programming software is running and display the requiredpersonality on screen.

(6) From the programming menu-bar select Read radio and then Personality.The progress of the read operation is displayed on the status line at the bottom of theprogramming screen.

When complete, switch off the radio and laptop, remove the programming lead, andreconnect the radio's microphone.

Printing a Personality Report

A personality can be printed as follows:

(1) From the programming menu, select Report, then Generate.(2) The programmer automatically verifies the personality is valid. If it is not valid

the nature of the error will be displayed.(3) A textual representation of the personality is displayed using the Windows

Notepad programme. When Notepad displays the personality it can be savedas a text file, or printed.

Previously saved Notepad files containing personalities can be retrieved by selectingReport, then Open from the menu-bar.


Section 6 - Spares

Introduction

The transceiver is manufactured using surface mount technology. Because of this, andthe specialist test equipment required to set up the circuits, the transceiver has no userserviceable parts.

List of Spares

The following spares are available from PAE. When ordering, the part number shouldalways be quoted.

(1) Programming kit (includes CD-ROM, orfloppy disk,and programming lead) Part No. 70-T6MPMKIT

(2) Whip antenna (complete withapproximately 4.8 m of coaxial cable) Part No. 00-50000001

(3) Loudspeaker Part No. 25F06000T6M(4) Microphone Part No. 25F02000T6M


ContentsSafety 3Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Regulations 4Foreword 5Trademarks 5Section 1 - OverviewAbout this User Guide 9Introduction to the T6M Mobile Transceiver 9Operating Modes 9Normal Mode 9Priority Mode 10Scan Mode 10

Programming the Transceiver's Personality 10

Section 2 - SpecificationGeneral 11Dimensions and Weight 12Supply 12Receive Circuit 12Transmit Circuit 12

Section 3 - InstallationIntroduction 13Unpacking 14Selecting a Mounting Location 14Installing the Transceiver 15Installing the Microphone 16Installing the Loudspeaker 16Power Cable Installation 17Installing the Antenna 19Fitting the Antenna to Fibreglass Vehicles 20Serviceability Check 21

Section 4 - Operating InstructionsIntroduction 23Programmable Options 24Display Blanking 24Warning Beeps 24Key Beeps 24Transmit Inhibit 25Maximum Transmit Time 25

Front Panel Display for 25 kHz and 8.33 kHz Channel Spacing 25Fault and Error Codes 27Switching On and Off (Ignition Sense not Connected) 28Switching On and Off (When Ignition Sense is Connected) 28Operating the Radio in Normal Mode 29Selecting Normal Mode 29Selecting a Channel Frequency 29Transmitting and Receiving 29Switching and Adjusting the Squelch Facility 29

Operating the Radio in Priority Mode 31Selecting Priority Mode 31Selecting a Priority Channel Frequency 31Transmitting and Receiving 31

Operating the Radio in Scan Mode 32Selecting Scan Mode 32Selecting a Scan Group 32Transmitting and Receiving 32

Section 5 - Programming the RadioIntroduction 33Programmable Options 36Display Blanking 36Warning Beeps 36Key Beeps 36Hold on Scan 37

Installing the Programming Software onto a Laptop, or PC 37Creating a New Personality 37Saving a Personality 42Opening a Saved Personality 43Loading a Personality into the Radio 43Reading a Personality from the Radio 43Printing a Personality Report 44

Section 6 - SparesIntroduction 45List of Spares 45

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