Radio Shack PRO-70 owner manual Introduction

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20-310.fm Page 2 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 10:49 AM

INTRODUCTION

Your new RadioShack PRO-70 50-Channel Portable Scanner lets you in on all the action. This scanner gives you direct access to over 22,000 exciting frequencies, in- cluding police and fire departments, ambulance services, and amateur radio services. You can select up to 50 chan- nels to scan, and you can change your selection at any time.

The secret to your scanner’s ability to scan so many fre- quencies is its custom-designed microprocessor — a tiny, built-in computer. Your scanner also has these special features:

Ten Preprogrammed Search Bands — let you search for transmissions within preset frequency ranges, so you can find interesting frequencies more quickly.

Ten Preprogrammed Weather Frequencies — keep

you informed about current weather conditions.

Two-Second Automatic Scan Delay — delays scanning for 2 seconds before moving to another channel, so you can hear more replies.

50 Channels — let you store up to 50 of your favorite fre- quencies for easy recall and scanning.

Monitor Memory — lets you temporarily save an active frequency you locate during a direct search, until you de- cide whether or not you want to save it into a channel.

Memory Backup — keeps the channel frequencies stored in memory for about 1 hour during a power loss.

© 1997 Tandy Corporation.

All Rights Reserved.

RadioShack is a registered trademark used by Tandy Corporation.

U.S. Patent No’s. 3,794,925: 3,801,914: 3,961,261: 3,962,644:

4,027,251: 4,092,594: 4,123,715: 4,245,348.

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Contents PRO-70 50-Channel Portable Scanner Introduction Serial Number Range Frequency BandDescription MHzFCC Notice Scanning Legally Pager transmissions Scrambled or encrypted transmissionsContents General Scanning Guide TroubleshootingCare and Maintenance Specifications Preparation Power SourcesUsing Batteries Fm Page 10 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM Using Standard AC Power Using Vehicle Battery Power Charging a Rechargeable Battery Pack Connecting the Antenna Connecting an Optional Antenna Listening Safely Connecting AN EARPHONE/ HeadphonesTraffic Safety Connecting AN Extension Speaker Using the Belt ClipUnderstanding the PRO-70 Look AT the KeypadLook AT the Display Fm Page 20 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM Turning on the Scanner and Setting Squelch OperationSearching for and Storing Active Frequencies Active Frequency ReferencesStoring Frequencies Fm Page 24 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM Using Band Search Fm Page 26 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM Using Direct Search Moving a Frequency from the Monitor Memory to a Channel Using the Monitor MemoryListening to the Monitor Memory Scanning the Stored Channels Monitoring a Stored Channel Clearing a Stored Channel Locking OUT Channels Special FeaturesUsing the Keylock Using a 2-SECOND Delay Using the Display Backlight Listening to a Weather BandFm Page 35 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM National Weather Frequencies General Scanning GuideGuide to Frequencies Ham Radio FrequenciesUnited States Broadcast Bands Guide to the Action BandsBirdie Frequencies Typical Band Usage Primary UsageFrequency Ranges Specified Interval Specified IntervalsUHF Band Activities Frequencies MHz Abbreviations Services Band AllocationHigh Frequency HF Hi 3 MHz-30 MHz Meter Amateur Band 28.0-29.7 MHzMeter Amateur Band 144-148 MHz Meter Amateur Band 50-54 MHzGovernment Band 138-144 MHz VHF-Hi Band 148-174 MHzGOVT, Usxx Coast GuardGovernment Band 406-450 MHz Cm Amateur Band 420-450 MHzBUS, IND Avoiding Image Frequencies Frequency Conversion Troubleshooting ErrorAdjust Squelch RESETTING/INITIALIZING the Scanner Resetting the ScannerInitializing the Scanner Care and Maintenance Specifications +9 V DC, 6 AA batteries Fm Page 54 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM Fm Page 55 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM Limited One-Year Warranty Sibility of Such Damages

PRO-70 specifications

The Radio Shack PRO-70 is a compact and versatile handheld scanner that caters to both novice enthusiasts and seasoned hobbyists. Launched in the early 1990s, the PRO-70 exemplifies the functionality and accessibility that users seek in a portable scanning device. Its design is lightweight and ergonomic, allowing for easy handling during extended use, whether at home or on the go.

One of the standout features of the PRO-70 is its ability to scan multiple frequency ranges. Operating on VHF, UHF, and other bands, it covers a comprehensive spectrum that includes public safety, amateur radio, and various commercial communications. This wide frequency range empowers users to stay informed about local news, events, and emergency situations.

The scanner boasts a powerful memory bank, often allowing users to store over 100 channels, which can be easily programmed and accessed. The inclusion of priority channels enables users to monitor essential frequencies while still scanning other channels, ensuring that important communications are never missed. The programmable scan feature is particularly beneficial, allowing enthusiasts to customize their scanning experience according to personal interests or needs.

In terms of technology, the PRO-70 utilizes advanced digital signal processing to enhance audio clarity and reception quality. This feature enables users to receive crisp and clear transmissions, particularly in areas with weaker signals. Additionally, the scanner incorporates a durable and long-lasting rechargeable battery, providing extended use without the frequent need for battery replacement, which is an essential consideration for avid users.

The user interface of the PRO-70 is designed for ease of use, with an intuitive layout of buttons and a simple LCD display that presents critical information clearly. Users can easily navigate through channels, adjust volume levels, and set scanning parameters without a steep learning curve.

Overall, the Radio Shack PRO-70 represents a significant entry in the world of handheld scanners, marrying practicality with technology. Its robust features, combined with the flexibility of frequency coverage, make it an ideal choice for both casual listeners and serious scanning enthusiasts. The scanner’s reliability, affordability, and ease of use solidify its reputation as a valuable tool for anyone looking to connect with their community and beyond through the world of radio communications.