Radio Shack PRO-91 owner manual Features

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FEATURES

Your RadioShack PRO-91 150-Channel Handheld Trunking Scanner is one of a new generation of scan- ners designed to track Motorola Type I and Type II (such as Smartnet and Privacy Plus) and hybrid ana- log trunking systems, which are extensively used in many 800 MHz communication systems.

Trunking communications systems let a large group of 2-way radio users (or even different groups of 2-way ra- dio users) efficiently use a large range of frequencies. Instead of selecting a specific frequency for a transmis- sion, the user simply selects a talk group. The trunking system automatically transmits the call on the first avail- able frequency, and also sends (on a different frequen- cy called a data channel) a code that uniquely identifies that transmission.

Since the trunking system might send a call and its re- sponse on different frequencies, it is difficult to listen to trunked communications using a regular scanner. The PRO-91 lets you select and monitor the data channel frequency sent with a 2-way radio transmission, so you can hear the call and response for that user and more easily “follow” the conversation.

The scanner also lets you scan conventional transmis- sions, and is preprogrammed with service banks for convenience. By pressing a single button, you can quickly search those frequencies most commonly used by public service and other agencies without te- dious and complicated programming.

This scanner gives you direct access to over 30,000 ex- citing frequencies, including police and fire depart- ments, ambulance services, and amateur radio services, and you can change your selection at any time.

Your scanner also has these special features:

Triple-Conversion Circuitry — virtually eliminates any interference from IF (intermediate frequency) im- ages, so you hear only the selected frequency.

© 1998 Tandy Corporation.

All Rights Reserved.

RadioShack is a registered trademark used by Tandy Corporation.

Hypersearch and Hyperscan are trademarks used by

Tandy Corporation.

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Contents PRO-91 150-Channel Handheld Trunking Scanner Features Fm Page 3 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Frequency Step Transmission Range MHz KHz FCC Notice Scanning LegallyContents General Guide to Scanning Special FeaturesTrunk Tracking Fm Page 8 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Preparation Power SourcesUsing Internal Batteries Fm Page 10 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Charging Nickel-Cadmium Batteries Using AC Power Using Vehicle Battery Power Plug the adapter’s barrel plug into your scanner’s Connecting the Antenna Connecting an Optional AntennaListening Safely Connecting AN EARPHONE/ HeadphonesTraffic Safety Connecting AN Extension Speaker Attaching the Belt ClipAbout Your Scanner Look AT the Keypad Look AT the Display Fm Page 21 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Channel Storage Banks Service BanksUnderstanding Banks Monitor Memories Turning on the Scanner and Setting Squelch OperationStoring Known Frequencies Into Channels Searching for and Temporarily Storing Active Frequencies Limit SearchDirect Search Service Bank Search Search Skip Memory Listening to the Monitor Memories Moving a Frequency from a Monitor Memory to a ChannelScanning the Stored Channels Manually Selecting a ChannelFm Page 32 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Turning CHANNEL-STORAGE Banks on and OFF Special FeaturesDelay Locking OUT Channels PriorityFm Page 35 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Changing Search Speeds Using the KeylockUsing the Display Backlight Normal Search HypersearchTurning the Battery Save Function OFF/ON Turning the KEY Tone OFF/ONSkipping Data Signals Trunk Tracking Types of Trunking SystemsSetting the Scanner to the Trunk Tracking Mode II systems. Nevertheless, Type I systems are still in useSetting Squelch for the Trunk Tracking Mode Storing Trunked FrequenciesFm Page 42 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Scanning a Trunked Bank Monitoring an Active ID Temporarily Storing an ID into the Monitor ID MemoryUnlocking All IDs Locking Out IDsUnlocking a Single ID Using Trunk Tracking Scan Delay Monitoring IDsChannel Activity Bars Scan Lists Manually Storing IDs into Scan ListsMoving IDs to Scan Lists Deleting a Stored IDScanning the Scan Lists Scanning Type I and Hybrid Trunked SystemsProgramming a Fleet Map Size Fleets Subfleets IDs Blocks Used E1P1 E1P2 E1P3 Size E1P4 E1P5 E1P6 Size Selecting a Preset Fleet Map Programming a Hybrid System National Weather Frequencies General Guide to ScanningGuide to Frequencies Canadian Weather FrequenciesPrimary Usage Guide to the Action BandsTypical Band Usage VHF BandBand Allocation AbbreviationsVery High Frequency VHF Ultra High Frequency UHF Frequency Conversion Troubleshooting Problem Possible Remedy CauseError Adjust squelch for Resetting the Scanner Care and Maintenance Specifications Fm Page 69 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Fm Page 70 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Fm Page 71 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 332 PM Limited One-Year Warranty RadioShack Division of Tandy Corporation Fort Worth, Texas

PRO-91 specifications

The Radio Shack PRO-91 is a handheld scanner that appeals to both amateur radio enthusiasts and professionals seeking a reliable and versatile communication device. Known for its user-friendly design and wide range of features, the PRO-91 is an excellent choice for monitoring various frequencies, including VHF and UHF bands.

One of the standout features of the PRO-91 is its capability to scan frequencies in the 25-1300 MHz range, which allows users to listen in on a variety of communications. This includes police, fire, and emergency services, as well as amateur radio transmissions and aircraft communications. The scanner supports both analog and some digital formats, making it adaptable to different communication standards and ensuring users stay updated with relevant broadcasts.

The PRO-91 comes with 200 programmable channels, allowing users to store their favorite frequencies for quick access. It also features a million frequency search capability, enabling it to detect active signals within the scanning range. Additionally, the scanner includes a priority channel function, permitting users to designate a specific frequency to continuously monitor while scanning through other channels.

Another notable characteristic of the PRO-91 is its triple conversion design, which enhances sensitivity and selectivity, resulting in improved audio clarity and reduced interference. The unit is equipped with a robust speaker that delivers clear sound quality, making it easy to understand transmissions even in noisy environments.

Users will appreciate the ergonomic design of the PRO-91, which features intuitive controls and a backlit LCD display for easy visibility, even in low-light conditions. The keypad layout is designed for straightforward operation, allowing even novice users to navigate through menus and settings with ease.

The PRO-91 is powered by a rechargeable battery, offering extended usage without the need for constant battery replacements. Its compact and lightweight construction makes it portable, making it suitable for on-the-go monitoring.

In conclusion, the Radio Shack PRO-91 offers an impressive array of features, technologies, and characteristics that cater to diverse scanning needs. With its wide frequency range, programmable channels, and superior audio quality, it stands out as a reliable choice for anyone looking to explore the world of radio communication. Whether for recreational use or professional monitoring, the PRO-91 ensures users remain connected to the signals that matter most.