20-310.fm Page 37 Wednesday, August 4, 1999 10:49 AM

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