Radio Shack PRO-70 Guide to the Action Bands, Birdie Frequencies, United States Broadcast Bands

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Birdie Frequencies

Every scanner has birdie frequencies. Birdies are signals created inside the scanner’s receiver. These operating frequencies might interfere with broadcasts on the same frequencies. If you program one of these frequencies, you hear only noise on that frequency. If the interference is not severe, you might be able to turn SQUELCH clockwise to cut out the birdie.

The birdie frequencies on this unit to watch for are:

29.900

30.455

30.735

31.480

32.090

32.530

33.580

38.400

51.200

51.225

140.800

143.430

144.000

147.200

153.600

156.800

160.000

162.200

166.400

 

To find the birdies in your scanner, begin by disconnecting the antenna and moving it away from the receiver. Make sure that no other nearby radio or TV sets are turned on near the scanner. Use the search function and scan every frequency band from its lowest frequency to the highest. Occasionally, the searching will stop as if it had found a signal, often without any sound. That is a birdie. Make a list of all the birdies in your particular scanner for future reference.

GUIDE TO THE ACTION BANDS

United States Broadcast Bands

In the United States, there are several broadcast bands. The standard AM and FM bands are probably the most well known. There are also four television audio broadcast bands — the lower three transmit on the VHF band and the fourth transmits on the UHF band.

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Contents PRO-70 50-Channel Portable Scanner Introduction Serial Number Description Frequency BandRange MHzFCC Notice Pager transmissions Scrambled or encrypted transmissions Scanning LegallyContents Care and Maintenance Specifications TroubleshootingGeneral Scanning Guide Using Batteries Power SourcesPreparation 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 Traffic Safety Connecting AN EARPHONE/ HeadphonesListening Safely Using the Belt Clip Connecting AN Extension SpeakerLook AT the Keypad Understanding the PRO-70Look AT the Display Fm Page 20 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM Operation Turning on the Scanner and Setting SquelchActive Frequency References Searching for and Storing Active FrequenciesStoring 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 Listening to the Monitor Memory Using the Monitor MemoryMoving a Frequency from the Monitor Memory to a Channel Scanning the Stored Channels Monitoring a Stored Channel Clearing a Stored Channel Using the Keylock Special FeaturesLocking OUT Channels Using a 2-SECOND Delay Listening to a Weather Band Using the Display BacklightFm Page 35 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 1049 AM Guide to Frequencies General Scanning GuideNational Weather Frequencies Ham Radio FrequenciesBirdie Frequencies Guide to the Action BandsUnited States Broadcast Bands Primary Usage Typical Band UsageUHF Band Activities Frequencies MHz Specified IntervalsFrequency Ranges Specified Interval Band Allocation Abbreviations ServicesMeter Amateur Band 28.0-29.7 MHz High Frequency HF Hi 3 MHz-30 MHzGovernment Band 138-144 MHz Meter Amateur Band 50-54 MHzMeter Amateur Band 144-148 MHz VHF-Hi Band 148-174 MHzGovernment Band 406-450 MHz Coast GuardGOVT, Usxx Cm Amateur Band 420-450 MHzBUS, IND Avoiding Image Frequencies Frequency Conversion Error TroubleshootingAdjust Squelch Resetting the Scanner RESETTING/INITIALIZING 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 Sibility of Such Damages Limited One-Year Warranty

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.
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