COMMUNICATION
MANUAL
Communications Manual
OXFAM GB
Humanitarian Department
Logistics Team
5th Edition January 2002
274, BANBURY ROAD, OXFORD, OX2 7DZ.
TEL: 44 (01865) 312151 or 312161
Page A2
Communications Manual
CONTENTS
A
A3
A6
A8
A9
Radio Communications Manual
Contents
Preface
Introduction
Notes
B
B2
B4
B5
B5
B5
B7
B8
B8
B8
B9
B10
B10
B11
B11
B11
B12
B12
B13
B14
B18
B19
Satellite Communications
Background and Development
TT3060a Capsat mini-M Satphone
System Components
Installation of the mini-M
Positioning the Antenna
The handset
Menu
Electronics Unit
Power Supplies
The Modem
Antenna
Making a Voice Call
Receiving a Voice Call
Sending Data/E-mail
Sending a Fax
Receiving a Fax
Unblocking the mini-M
Hints and Kinks
Reference Locations
Capsat Mobile Satellite mini-M Kit
Notes
C
C2
C3
C4
C5
C6
C6
C7
C7
C10
C12
C13
C14
C14
C17
C17
C18
C19
C20
C21
C22
VHF Communications
Short Range Communications
Oxfam VHF Kits
Installation and Operating Notes
Connecting the VHF Base Kit
ICOM IC1010 Base Station
Front Panel Layout
Operating the Controls
Programming the IC-1010
ICOM IC-F3S Hand Transceiver
Installation and Operating
Mobile Antenna
Programming the F3S
Cloning the F3S
ICOM IC-F30LT Transceiver
Receiving and Transmitter
Installation and Operating
Mobile Antenna
Programming the F30LT
Cloning the F30LT
Extending the Range
Continued overleaf
Page A3
Communications Manual
C22
C23
C24
C24
C25
Repeater Operation
Repeater Questionnaire
KVHB-VHF Base Kit
KVHW-VHF Kit
Notes
D
D2
D3
D5
D6
D9
D11
D12
D13
D14
D14
D15
D18
D18
D19
D20
D21
D22
D24
D25
D28
D29
D29
D30
D31
D31
D31
D32
D33
D33
D34
HF Communications
Medium to Long Range Communications
Distance/Frequency Guide
HF Oxfam Kits
Codan NGT Base Station Installation
Codan C411 Antenna Installation
NGT Base and Mobile Stations
NGT VR Transceiver
Transmitting, Scanning and Selcall
Beacon Call
Programming the NGT
Programming the NGT using Quick Start
KHM HF mobile kit
HF Mobile installation
The 9350 Mobile Antenna
Installing the 9350 Antenna
Fault rectification of 9350 Antenna
9360 and 9780 Transceivers
Transmitting, Scanning, Selcall and Beacon call
Programming the 9360 and 9780
Fault Diagnosis
KHB Base Station kit
KHM Mobile Radio Kit
Oxfam Data kit
Installing the 3012 modem
Installing the 9102 Software
The KHD-HF data Kit
KM Antenna Kit
Erecting the Mast
KM/3-Lightweight Mast kit
Notes
E
E2
E3
E4
E5
E6
E7
E8
E8
E9
Power Supplies
Connecting the Battery
Increasing the Capacity
Charging and Discharging
The KP Power Supply Kit
The KSP Solar Power Kit
The Inverter
The KG Kit
The Sollatek AVS13
Notes
Page A4
Communications Manual
F
F2
F2
F3
F3
F3
F3
F4
F5
F6
F8
Communication Tool Kit
The KT kit
The Multi-meter
The Soldering Iron
Amalgamating Tape
Crimping Pliers
Masonry Drills
Fitting the PL259 Plug
BNC and N type Plugs
The Complete KT Kit
Notes
G
G2
G3
G4
G5
G6
G7
G8
G8
G9
G10
Managing the Network
Managing the Network
Radio Procedures
Operating Practices
Radio Jargon
Phonetic Alphabet
Radio Signal Codes
General Formulae
BBC World Services
The Logbook
Notes
H
H2
H3
H4
H5
H5
H6
H6
H6
H6
H7
H7
H9
End.
The Oxfam Kits
KSATM Kit Mobile Satellite Unit
KVHB Kit
VHF Base Station
KVHW Kit
VHF Portable Transceivers
KHB Kit
HF Base Radio Station
KHM Kit
HF Mobile Radio Station
KHD Kit
HF Data Kit (Use with KHB)
KSP Kit
12v DC Solar Power Supply
KP Kit
240v AC to 12v DC Power Supply
KG Kit
Diesel Generator Power Supply
KM Kit
Mast Kit
KT Kit
Communication Tool Kit
Notes
5th Edition January 2002
© John F Layton R.A.S.M.E G4AAL
Page A5
Communications Manual
PREFACE
This manual is written as a basic source of information to the standard OXFAM
communication kits. The kits are designed to allow a programme to set up a basic
communications network easily and rapidly, using the following basic principles:
1.
VHF equipment for short range links, able to cope with distances up to 50 km,
dependent on the local terrain.
2.
HF equipment for medium to long range communications covering a country or
region.
3.
Portable Satellite equipment for worldwide coverage, creating links into public
telephone lines.
Includes the following kits;
KSATM: A mobile satellite kit for voice, data or fax.
Requires 220 volt AC or 12 volt DC power for continuous use.
KVHB:
A VHF base station complete with antenna and connecting cables.
Requires a 12 volt DC power source. (KP kit)
KVHW:
Four VHF walkie-talkies, complete with all accessories.
Requires either 220 volt AC or 12 volt DC supply to recharge batteries.
KHB:
HF base station complete with antenna and connecting cables.
Requires 12 volt DC power source. (KP kit)
KHM:
Mobile HF radio installation complete with automatic tuning antenna.
Uses the 12 volt vehicle battery as power source.
KHD:
An HF modem with software and connecting cables. Upgrades the KHB for
data transmission. Requires the addition of dedicated computer.
KM:
Mast kit that can be used to support HF or VHF antennas.
KPS:
Solar power kit to provide 12 volt DC and 220 AC for HF and VHF equipment.
KP:
A kit to provide regulated 12 volt DC from a local mains supply or generator.
KG:
Five KVA diesel generator with initial spares. Has sufficient power for a typical
small office. Can power communications equipment and standard office
equipment such as a computer, printer, and photocopier or fax machine.
KT:
Tool kit containing a range of tools suitable for most installations and minor
electrical repair work.
Page A6
Communications Manual
Items which make up the kits are not necessarily the best available, and are certainly not
the cheapest of options. They have been selected for flexibility of use and simplicity of
operation. In some circumstances where communications needs can be accurately
assessed and adequate time is available, it may be advisable to either purchase
alternative equipment or to add to one of the standard kits. If any of these measures are
being considered, please consult the Logistics Team in Oxfam House before committing
yourself to a particular make, model, type of equipment or course of action.
Creating or improving a system can at times be a complex process, especially when
integrating with programmes in other countries.
Users should be aware that a working system has to be adapted not only to the future
needs of the organisation but also to international regulations and local conditions.
OXFAM continues to use large quantities of radio and satellite equipment in both
emergency and development programmes, all at great expense. This is mainly for
security reasons, or in some cases to help a programme improve its speed of response.
This manual does not discuss when and where it is appropriate for OXFAM to deploy
radio or satellite equipment. If adequate communications via the public telephone
network are already in place it may be uneconomic to install expensive radio equipment.
The final decision must be discussed on a case-by-case basis with the relevant line
manager.
It must be said though, that whilst the use of a radio network might form an important part
of staff security procedure, the possession of a radio does not, in itself, reduce the
security risk to the relevant staff. At the same time, the use of radio to improve speed of
response can in no way replace the need for proper planning and management
procedures. These issues must be borne in mind before investing the large amounts of
time and money required to introduce, set up, and develop an integrated radio
communications system.
Page A7
Communications Manual
INTRODUCTION
This manual covers the basics of theory, installation and use. Reference should be made
to manufacturers literature to perform more complicated procedures if required.
Divided into separate sections such as Satellite Communication, HF (High Frequency)
and VHF (Very High Frequency) Radio, each section starts with a description of the principles involved. Simple theory will be included to explain why certain actions are
necessary. This will be kept to a minimum and only introduced where no alternative is
available. Ancillary items such as antennas, power sources, security, message handling
procedures etc. are also included in the appropriate section. Installation of the equipment
currently in use together with basic fault diagnosis will be found at the end of section.
For more detailed information on subjects such as propagation and frequency
computation, reference should be made to the many books written on the subject of Radio
Communications.
HF radios are primarily intended for medium to long-range contacts where distances of
2000 miles and more are not uncommon. They operate in the 2 to 24 MHz (megahertz)
frequency range. Obstructions such as buildings and mountains have very little or no
effect on communications. HF radio can cover these large distances because of the way
the transmitted radio wave propagates. Once a regional network has been established
running costs, compared with other long distance communication methods, are very low.
HF radio can be used to link into the public telephone landlines. Where reliable access to
the Internet system exists, transmitting data over the HF bands for downloading onto
Electronic Mail is a development, which the Humanitarian Department has introduced.
VHF radios operate in the 100 to 300mhz bands. Unlike the HF frequencies, the partial
inability of Very High Frequency radio waves to bend around objects, or to be reflected
from the ionosphere, limit the distance that direct contact can be achieved between
ground stations. Both the VHF and the UHF frequencies are capable of solid reliable
short range, line of sight communications, up to about 50km. Obstructions such as hills
and tall buildings can reduce this distance drastically. A well-positioned repeater can
increase the range but is still restricted to `line of sight` operations.
Satellite Communications function in the middle UHF (Ultra High Frequency) spectrum
where the inability of radio waves to bend upon reaching the ionosphere is used to
advantage. Here the 'line of sight' distance is in the order of 72,000 kilometres from
Satcom to LES (Land Earth Station) via the geostationary satellites located above the
Equator. Every minute of satellite time, using voice, fax or e-mail is expensive.
Calls to or from a Satcom unit should always be carefully prepared beforehand so
that 'air time ' can be kept to a minimum. The program software in particular,
should automatically restrict all large files of outgoing, and incoming e-mails. (cc:
mail?) as download speeds are very slow and costly compared to ordinary
telephone landline connections.
Cellular Telephones operate in the middle of the UHF range. Coverage is only possible
in the vicinity of remote control radio relay stations. Where they do not exist cellular
telephones cannot work. UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES COSTS CAN GREATLY
EXCEED THOSE OF A SATCOM, PARTICULARLY IF THE CELLULAR PHONE HAD
BEEN COMMISSIONED IN THE UK BEFORE BEING USED ABROAD.
Citizens Band (CB) radios operate in the 27 MHz band. Using low power and a relatively
high frequency they are greatly affected by the vagaries of propagation so do not normally
operate much beyond ‘line of sight’.
Page A8
Oxfam Communication Manual
SATELLITE
COMMUNICATION
Page B1
Satellite Communications
BACKGROUND AND DEVELOPMENT
Inmarsat (International Maritime Satellite Organisation) is an internationally owned cooperative, which provides mobile satellite communications worldwide. Established in
1979 to serve the maritime community, it began operations in February 1982. The
organisation was originally formed to offer a system of satellites providing two-way
telephone, telex, data and fax, as well as distress and safety communications services, to
the shipping and offshore industries. Technological advances to the hardware in the last
few years have improved reliability and resulted in a reduction in the overall size and
weight of the equipment. Land terminals the size of notebook computers; now provide
emergency communications at times of human disaster and natural catastrophes.
Strategically placed at 33,700 kilometres above the Equator are four satellites in a
geostationary path. At this height they orbit in time with the earth's rotation. Originally
designed to serve the maritime community, three satellites were positioned above the
Pacific, Indian and Atlantic Oceans, a fourth being added in 1992 over South America.
Apart from small areas in the Polar Regions, worldwide coverage has been achieved
using just four satellites. Due to increasing demand Inmarsat also leases additional
capacity on 7 others. This means that communication via the Satellite system is now
possible from any location, however isolated or remote. The most recent generation of
satellites are known as Inmarsat Series 3. These have the advantage of automatically
concentrating power within various areas of its footprint (an area served by the satellite), a
capability known as ‘spot beaming’. The satellites also use a portion of the L-band
frequencies for non-adjacent spot beams. This has the effect of doubling the capacity of
each satellite.
Because the present satellite network cannot carry a large amount of traffic
simultaneously, there may be occasions when all lines are engaged and access is denied.
Inmarsat has developed five systems. One provides satellite communications exclusively
for aircraft (not discussed here), the four others by land-based and maritime users.
Inmarsat-A the original system still in use today supports high-speed data, fax and voice.
Inmarsat-B is the digital equivalent of and eventual replacement for the original InmarsatA. More compact than 'A' it will also support high-speed data, fax and voice
communications.
Inmarsat-C has two-way, store and forward message handling, text or data
communications at a data rate of 600 bits per second.
Inmarsat-M system introduced in December 1992, to complement the existing services,
providing global telephone, fax and Internet communications through a land earth station
which is inexpensive (relatively speaking) and compact in size.
Services on Inmarsat M have improved to include two-way global telephone, fax and
computer data communications. Oxfam mini-M satcoms now include as standard the
facility for high quality direct dial telephone, fax and 2,400 bits per second data
connections, the latter being introduced in 1996. These portable terminal units are the
size and appearance of a notebook computer weighing about 3kg.
To link the Inmarsat satellites into the international telephone lines, over 70 Land Earth
Stations (LES) have been established worldwide. The UK service provider is British
Telecom located at Goonhilly in Cornwall. Opened in 1962, it was one of the first of three
satellite earth stations in the world.
Page B2
Satellite Communications
The next generation of satellite communication equipment appearing in the market place
could be slightly larger than VHF portable hand-held transceivers. They were expected to
be connected into the international telephone system either via the normal cellular
repeater system, or, when land based repeaters were not available, by a series of Low
Earth Satellites moving continuously around the globe. It was predicted that this new
technology would be fully operational by 2002, however technical difficulties have delayed
the launch.
With any relatively new system where high technology equipment is involved, economics
play a vital part. Satellite communications are no exception. To develop, launch and
maintain a satellite network costs many millions of dollars. It should come as no surprise
therefore to learn that it is a very expensive exercise to communicate via the satellite
system.
Prices per minute to satcom units have been reduced considerably since the network was
first introduced. OXFAM being a humanitarian and disaster relief agency qualifies for a
special rate. In April 2000 the rate for using the mini-M satphone was $2.10c per minute
and for the older Hagenuk SP1600B $3.38c per minute. This was for satellite phone to
land line services and vice versa. Over time these costs are coming down, but like mobile
phone charges, it is still relatively expensive when compared to normal PSTN landline
services. Satphone to satphone calls, however close to each other geographically, are
charged at double the above rate.
ALL CALLS MADE TO OR FROM THE SATELLITE UNIT (Mobile Earth Station)
SHOULD PREFERABLY BE SENT USING DATA OR FAX SO THAT 'AIR TIME' IS
KEPT TO AN ABSOLUTE MINIMUM. THE SPOKEN WORD TAKES MUCH LONGER,
IS WASTEFUL AND COULD BE INACCURATE.
From time to time it may be necessary, for economic reasons, to select a different service
provider. Users will be informed, and instructions given, of any changes to be made.
Advice on the current LES (Land Earth Station) can be obtained from the Logistics Team,
in the Humanitarian Department.
Contacts should be kept informed of any changes to your Satcom's operating schedule,
taking into account any global time differences and, or, satellite access.
Due to the high costs involved in operating a Satphone unit, it is strongly recommended
that a completely separate log be kept detailing all outgoing and incoming calls, with their
duration. Costs can then be assigned to the appropriate project or individual person. The
satellite airtime provider supplies OXFAM with an itemised account (date, time, duration
of call, number called, etc) calls made can then be compared to the log. Details of the
last 100 calls with time length and telephone numbers are stored in the Satcom
accounting mode. Access to which is available via the menu.
Anyone who may need to call your Satphone should be told the full telephone number,
including the prefix denoting the satellite region. It is essential that potential callers be
informed if, for any reason, you move the antenna to point towards a different satellite.
For instance, both the Indian Ocean Region (873) and Atlantic Ocean Region East (871)
satellites cover the entire African continent so either could be used at any time. All
Inmarsat calls are international and will normally consist of a (00) access code, a (871-4)
satellite identity code and a telephone number assigned to a particular unit. (e.g. 00 872
761015567).
Please remember to switch off the telephone by either replacing the handset on its cradle
or pressing the button marked with a phone symbol as soon as possible after the call has
finished.
Page B3
Satellite Communications
When using satellite systems, the following abbreviations are used.
MES.
Mobile Earth Station. The name given by Inmarsat for a terminal unit, such as
the TT3060B Capsat Mobile Telephone (mini-M).
LES.
Land Earth Station. The LES is located at the other end of the satellite link.
It connects to the local telephone networks and routes calls to and from the MES.
NCS.
Network Co-ordination Station. The NCS is responsible for assigning channels
to the MES. In case of failure the MES switches to ‘Stand alone’ mode. In this mode
designated LES’s in each region will act as NCS.
TT3060a Capsat Mobile Telephone (mini-M)
TT3060a mini-M Capsat Mobile Units provide international telephone, fax and data
capability to users who reside in remote areas or who have no telecommunications
infrastructure. This is achieved by beaming a signal via a geo-stationary satellite to the
appropriate land earth station and from there the call is relayed to its destination.
TT3060a Capsat Mobile Telephones (MES) are able to provide international telephone,
fax and data facilities (at slow speed), to users that reside in regions with unreliable
telecommunication infrastructure. This is achieved by beaming a signal via one of the
satellites in earth orbit to a land earth station (LES) and from there the call is relayed to its
destination through the normal terrestrial telephone system.
The unit itself is a substantial improvement on the Hagenuk SP1600B brief case sized
satellite telephone used by Oxfam previously. The Mini-M, is the common name for the
TT3060a Capsat Mobile Telephone, a spot-beam satellite telephone providing the
following improvements:
1. Stronger signal
2. Smaller and lighter satellite telephone (MES) unit
3. Simpler operation
4. Portability
5. Built-in battery with 48 hours listen and 2.5 hours talk time
6. Watertight demountable antenna
7. Can be powered and operated from a variety of power
sources
Page B4
Satellite Communications
System Components
The Mini-M comprises of the following parts:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Electronics Unit
Antenna (Removable)
Handset
Data Cable
Fast Charger
0.15m Antenna Cable
5m Antenna Extension Cable
Spare Nicad Battery Pack
Compass
Installation of the mini-M.
This recently introduced laptop sized unit is a substantial improvement on the Hagenuk
SP16600B briefcase size unit previously used by OXFAM. As explained on page B3 the
next generation of satellite telephones will be even smaller and just as versatile. Like the
SP1600B the unit is completely self-contained with the added advantage of a lighter
weight, a much smaller size and the capability of operating portable using an easily
changeable, rechargeable nicad battery pack. A spare battery pack is also included in the
kit, which allows the unit, if required, to be completely operable without an outside power
source for a considerable length of time. Once set up it can access the public telephone
network worldwide from any location. Like all expensive electronic apparatus the
TT3060a Capsat mini-M should be treated with care. It is recommended that the original
instruction book is read through carefully before operating the unit. Experienced users
may still benefit from studying the instruction manual.
Inmarsat satellite systems are based upon four satellites. These are situated over the
Equator in a geostationary orbit. Three satellites (originally for maritime purposes) were
placed so as to cover the main ocean regions, the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific. A fourth
was added at a later date on the western side of the Atlantic to fill in a gap to the global
coverage.
Page B5
Satellite Communications
Positioning the antenna.
Before switching on, the antenna should be positioned, in the clear, facing the direction of
one of the satellites mentioned above. A compass and a map are included in the kit to
assist in finding the correct direction. It is important that a direct ‘line of sight’ between the
satphone antenna and the satellite be established. Normally the antenna will be
positioned in the open air, pointing directly at the satellite. There must be no solid
building, metalwork, large trees or other obstructions in the way. Only where a window
favouring the required direction is available can the complete unit be installed indoors.
The antenna, extension cable and connector, being waterproof, are designed to withstand
poor conditions outside.
It will first be necessary to know the current location of the satellite relative to your
position. This is achieved by calculating the azimuth and elevation angles.
The
azimuth angle is the number of degrees from north turning in a clockwise direction to face
towards the satellite. The elevation angle is the number of degrees above the horizontal
to look straight at the satellite. A compass for determining the azimuth and elevation
angles is included as part of the kit.
Position the antenna by using the elevation and azimuth angles obtainable from the
diagrams located towards the end of this chapter or from those included in the
manufacturers manual.
The antenna can be removed from the mini-M electronics unit by lifting it from the two
vertical
pegs located on the rear of the base. Care should be taken with the hinge assembly
fastened
to the antenna as breakage can occur if roughly treated. If breakage of the hinge does
occur
Then a replacement antenna should be ordered The antenna unit is connected to the
base by a short (0.15m) cable which can be unplugged if required and changed for the
longer 5m extension cable provided to allow a more convenient positioning of the
antenna.
WARNING: - Damage to the antenna hinge assembly is NOT
covered by any guarantee. It is expensive to replace. Read the
instructions in the mini-M manual carefully before removing lid
from the electronics unit.
When the approximate antenna position has been obtained, switch on the unit by
pressing the ON button (¼) located on the top left hand corner of the handset. The
satphone will then display ‘Initialising’, for some seconds followed by a ‘PIN code’ (if
enabled). Enter your PIN code. If the password has not been altered then 9999 is the
default PIN number.
Display, ‘Wait for NCS’ which should appear on the hand set for a few seconds followed
by ‘AOR-E: France Telecom’ or a similar service Provider name. If, after a short pause
the ‘Wait for NCS’ does not alter then it will be necessary to proceed with the Terminal
set-up section as detailed later in this chapter.
Adjust the antenna whilst watching the display on the handset to achieve the maximum
number of lights shown next to the signal strength antenna ‘y ‘symbol. This is situated
near to the top of the display in the middle. At least three lights out of the five should be
activated to give satisfactory results.
Page B6
Satellite Communications
Alternatively switch on the antenna bleeper by pressing the ‘2nd,’ button followed by the
‘9’ button. This activates a bleeper in the antenna, which increases in speed as the signal
received by the antenna becomes stronger. Adjust position of antenna carefully until the
frequency of the beeps is at a maximum. Conformation of correct position can be
obtained by checking that four or more signal strength lights are displayed on the
handset.
Page B7
Satellite Communications
HANDSET
The handset is equipped for full operation and access of the mini-M. It contains
indicators, an LCD display and a keypad together with microphone, earpiece and
adjustable volume.
Terminal state is signalled in the LCD display on the handset. The display has two lines
of twelve characters for text messages and eleven special symbols. Below the display
are 4 LED’s to supplement the LCD display symbols.
A description of the four LED’s follows.
Power (Green) Steady when on. Flashes when in sleep-mode.
Lights (Red) when alarm activates.
Flashes (Yellow) during ringing.
Lights (Green) when in synch.
Symbols displayed on LCD
é
ê
More entries above
More entries below
Signal strength
Battery capacity
2nd button pressed
Security enabled.
Alpha mode on.
Toggle field
Speaker on
Off hook
New Messages waiting
Three switched modes are available on the handset.
Normal
Alpha
2nd
Provides all the functions indicated by the text on the keys.
Provides alphabetical functions for entering display text.
Provides short cuts for various functions such as enabling the Antenna beep.
A more detailed list of functions in each mode is provided in the Satcom manual.
Page B8
Satellite Communications
MENU
The menu system allows the user to control and manage the Capsat mini-M. As in most
computer programs the menu is hierarchical, each of the main options containing further
sub-menus.
Whilst In the menu mode, a user can:
·
·
·
·
·
·
·
Set and change the Land Earth Station (LES).
View a log of the last 100 individual calls.
View a total of calls made with the unit.
Edit the security PIN code.
Enable data settings
Enable the contrast, key beep, antenna beep, etc
Monitor the battery status and signal strength.
For further detailed explanations refer to the manual accompanying the Capsat mini-M
unit.
Electronics Unit
The Electronics base unit contains facilities to operate the unit either via ac mains or
battery power and the means to charge the replaceable NiCad battery. It also houses the
in-built modem (DSP) and other electronic modules to control the operation of the unit.
POWER SUPPLIES
Capsat mini-M’s can be powered from several different sources including an AC adapter,
a DC source, a solar panel or an internal rechargeable battery. This provides a high
degree of portability and independence of specific power sources when required.
Mains Supply
The unit is powered from a mains supply outlet with a voltage rating of between 90265volts using the fast charger. If the Capsat mini-M is to be powered from the mains for
prolonged periods of time, it is recommended that the battery be removed. This will help
to preserve the battery's charging life.
Battery
Internal battery packs supplied with the Capsat mini-M contain NiCad cells. Location of
the battery is at the front right-hand side of the electronics unit. To keep the battery in
good order, it should be discharged completely on a regular basis, e.g. after 5-10 partial
discharges. This will prevent the so called ‘memory effect’ in the battery cells which
reduces their capacity. See below for the recommended method.
The battery can be charged with either Fast Charge unit (2hours/charge time) or the
standard charge unit (8 or more hours/charge time). Both are supplied in the kit, however
it is recommended that the Fast Charger/ Power supply should be used.
Page B9
Satellite Communications
Please use the following guidelines to preserve the batteries lifetime:
·
·
·
·
·
Avoid exposing the battery to direct sunlight, high temperatures will reduce
battery lifetime.
In a cold environment (0° Celsius and below) preheat the battery pack if
possible to body temperature before making calls on battery power only.
Disconnect the small AC adapter when the battery pack is completely
recharged.
Continuous over-charging of the battery pack causes its temperature to rise.
This, in the long term will damage the battery pack.
Remove the battery if the unit is not to be used for a long period.
Discharge the battery fully, by disconnecting the power supply, disabling the telephone’s
sleep mode (if enabled) and leaving the telephone switched on until the green POWER
LED turns off.
A LED on the front of the unit indicates the status of the battery charge, as follows:
LED ON indicates a fast charge in progress.
LED Blinking Slow or Short Flash indicates Slow or no charge.
LED Blinking Fast indicates a maintenance charge.
LED Off indicates battery error or no connection.
Fully charged the battery has an listen time of about 48 hours and a talk time of 2½
hours.
The Capsat mini-M can be powered from any 12-volt car battery system utilising either of
the cables supplied. The user can connect directly onto a battery using the cable
terminated with crocodile clips or via the cable terminated with a cigarette lighter plug.
Solar Panel
WARNING. When the solar panel option is used to power the unit and charge the internal
battery, it is important that the power cable is only connected across a 12 volt DC supply.
The direct output from a solar panel is NOT 12 volts and requires a regulator fitted in
series with the battery before it is suitable as a Satcom power source. If in doubt, connect
the Satcom directly across a charged but unconnected 12-volt car battery.
Satphone TT3060A Capsat Mobile Telephone provides telephony satellite services
between fixed land users or mobile stations. The Capsat mini-M also offers group III
facsimile at 2400 baud and full duplex data services up to 2400 baud.
Modem
The built-in modem will transmit data at 2.400 bits per second. This is the maximum
speed available for either data or fax. This is extremely slow compared to modems
connected via normal PSTN landlines (56,000 bits per second); consequently operating in
any data mode on a satellite system can be very costly. It is recommended that all e-mail
software (cc:Mail, Outlook Express, etc) be configured to prevent files over 50-100k being
downloaded without authorisation.
Fax
Page B10
Satellite Communications
When using the fax facility please be aware that the speed of reception and transmission
is much slower than ordinary PSTN telephone lines. Costs will be similar to those
incurred when sending e-mails.
Page B11
Satellite Communications
Antenna
The TT-3007A patch antenna sits on two pins jutting out from the rear of the electronics
unit, and is connected to the unit by a short-screened coaxial cable. When removed the
patch antenna has a stand that can be unfolded to support itself at the correct angle.
Please be aware that the antenna hinge assembly is NOT covered by any guarantee.
Any breakage to the hinge will require the complete antenna being replaced.
Once removed the antenna can be position up to 5 metres away from the electronics unit
utilising the supplied spare coaxial extension cable. The maximum distance that the
antenna can be sited from the electronics unit is 70 metres. Advice should be obtained
before extending the distance between the antenna and the base electronics unit greater
than 10 metres as signal level problems could occur.
The antenna is watertight and
sealed for outdoor operation. A built-in acoustic signal strength indicator built into the
antenna beeps increasingly faster as the satellite signal becomes stronger. The acoustic
indicator can be enabled or disabled via the telephone handset keypad in the menu mode.
WARNING:
Radiation from the TT-3007A Patch Antenna, when the Satphone is in operation,
constitutes a potentially dangerous hazard. To avoid possible health risks, it is advisable
to stand at least 1 metre from the front of the antenna at all times. As stated earlier, to
operate correctly, there should be a clear line of sight between the MES antenna and the
satellite.
USING THE mini-M
Making a Voice Telephone Call
Initiate a telephone call on the mini-M from the keypad, as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Enter the prefix number, 00 to establish an international call.
Enter the code for the country you are calling. For example, UK is 44.
Enter the telephone number you want to call. For example, 1865 313891.
or # key to initiate the call.
Press the
The LCD screen on the mini-M handset will then show the following messages at each
stage
1.
2.
3.
Handset Calling
Handset - LES connected
Handset - Ph. Connected
At this point, you should hear the normal ringing tone from the handset waiting for
or replace the
someone to answer. To end a call, either press the button marked
handset back in its cradle.
Page B12
Satellite Communications
Making a Voice Telephone Call to Another Satellite Telephone
Proceed as above with a normal international call except that the individual Inmarsat
satellite number (871, 872, 873 or 874) needs to be inserted after the 00 and before the
nine-digit telephone number. For instance: 00-872-762015375
Enter the prefix number, 00 to establish an international call.
Enter the code, 871, 872, 873 or 874 to connect to the satellite required.
Enter the number of the MES you want to connect to. For example, you would enter a
number similar to 762015375.
Press the
or # key to initiate the call.
Please Note: - It is more expensive to make a Satcom to Satcom call than Satcom to
Land Line Telephone call.
Receiving a Voice Telephone Call
To receive a telephone call, position the mini-M antenna correctly as described on pages
B6 and B7 and leave the unit switched on. Pick up the handset from the cradle once the
mini-M starts ringing to answer the call. Remember to replace handset once the call has
been completed.
Sending Data by Satellite Telephone
The Capsat mini-M satellite telephone has a Data modem built into the electronics unit.
With this capability, a user can connect a computer to the unit using the 9pin male - 9pin
female serial cable supplied with the unit. And with specially configured email software
installed on the PC a user can send and receive electronic mail and data.
The email software presently used by OXFAM for use over satellite is Lotus cc:Mail for
Windows. A separate user guide for Lotus cc:Mail together with complete installation and
configuration instructions is available from the Humanitarian Department at Oxfam house.
Sending a Fax by Satellite Telephone
To send fax transmissions through the Capsat mini-M, the machine must be specially
configured for use in conjunction with the mini-M unit. The fax machine has to match the
speed of the internal fax-data modem of the mini-M unit.
Make sure that the mini-M unit is correctly aligned and locked onto a satellite as
described above. Connect the telephone cable supplied with the fax machine between
the RJ11 telephone socket situated at the back of the mini-M unit and the line socket on
the fax machine. Connect fax to power supply and switch on.
Place the document that needs to be transmitted face down on the fax machine.
Enter the number to be called, preceded by the Hash (#) symbol on the keypad of the
fax machine. As with making a voice call, this should consist of the international access
code (00), the country code (for example, 44) and the number of the receiving fax
machine.
To initiate the call, press the Hash or # key.
Page B13
Satellite Communications
Wait until the telephone handset display indicates that both fax machines are negotiating
a connection, then press the START button on the fax machine keypad to transmit the
document.
The fax machine should display DIALLING and then ONLINE and the mini-M will indicate
NEGOTIATING on its display screen. At this point press START on the fax machine.
Receiving a Fax by Satellite Telephone
To receive a fax transmission through the Capsat mini-M, make sure that the display is
set to FAX using the AUTO RCV button on the fax machine. Fax reception will then be
automatic.
Switching Off the mini-M Satellite Telephone
Press and hold the Θ button down for a few seconds until the LCD display indicates: - 0
Release Power Button.
Unblocking the CapSat mini-M
In view of the expensive call costs involved with satellite telephones it is advisable to
make use of the security features available with the mini-M.
As supplied, all mini-M units have a Personal Identification Number (PIN) preprogrammed into the unit as a security measure against unauthorised use. An incorrect
PIN number can only be entered a maximum of three times before rendering the
unit unusable.
To re-activate the mini-M, the user must enter an unblock code. Each mini-M unit has a
unique unblock code. This can be found in the literature supplied with each new Satcom.
It can also be obtained from the Logistics Department. The serial and telephone numbers
of the mini-M must be quoted when asking for the code.
The procedure to unblock a mini-M unit is as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Switch on the mini-M. You will be prompted to enter a PIN number.
Enter the Unblock Code obtained from the Logistics Department in
Oxford. (See paragraph above for alternative source)
Press the OK button. You will now be prompted to enter a new PIN
code.
Enter the PIN 9999 and press the OK button.
Once this procedure has been completed, the mini-M is re-activated. To make sure that
the PIN that has re-programmed correctly, switch the unit off. Switch the unit back on and
enter the new PIN. If the mini-M unit refuses to accept the new PIN, re-run the unblock
procedure.
Please note: - The PIN number, if different from the initial default 9999 must be
recorded or remembered otherwise an unblock code will be required to reactivate
the unit. Any attempt to try random PIN numbers more than three times will result
in complete blocking of the Satcom.
Page B14
Satellite Communications
HINTS AND KINKS
To make the best use of the digital `mini-M' system the following points should be noted.
Most of the following apply equally to voice, fax or data.
·
If using a fax machine other than the one supplied please consult Logistics
Team as to suitability.
·
Make sure the antenna is properly aligned (bearing and elevation) to obtain a
good strong satellite signal. At all times at least THREE LEVEL LAMPS should
light up.
·
Make sure there is a direct "line of sight" to the satellite, though it will operate
through clear glass, (leaded windows and tree lines can be sufficient to stop
signals getting through).
·
When the mobile satcom is being used to send or receive a call, the antenna
transmits a powerful electo-magnetic signal towards the satellite. This could be
harmful, and, as calls can be received at any time: KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE AWAY FROM THE FRONT OF THE ANTENNA!
·
Time spent on the satellite is expensive so use it wisely. Written communication
is by far the most effective way to send a message. If you need to speak
always plan your call before dialling.
·
Remember to talk slowly and clearly. There will be a noticeable delay between
speaking and listening. Learn to be patient.
·
Agree on set times for communication with whoever you are calling to conserve
power. Remember to take account of the time difference between countries.
·
Try calling again if you don't get through within 15 seconds.
·
Try another LES or Satellite Ocean Region if you cannot get through after a few
attempts. This only applies when the call is from a mobile Satcom. Please
remember to return to the original satellite until you have informed everyone of
the change, (See notes on next page).
·
Make sure the terrestrial calling party knows the full Inmarsat satellite number
you are using, including the prefix (871, 872, 873 or 874) (See below)
·
If you have permanently moved your Satcom to point at another Satellite make
sure you inform everyone of the new prefix.
·
From time to time check with the Logistics team as to the current service
provider. Many companies are extending their networks and are now able to
offer M Satcom facilities through all satellites. Costs can vary considerably and
up to date advice should be obtained as to the cheapest option currently
available. In most cases this will involve altering the access code before
the telephone number. This procedure only applies where calls originate
FROM the mobile Satcom. In the UK all calls TO a mobile Satcom beaming at
AOR-East OR AOR- West satellites would be routed through British Telecom at
Goonhilly.
Page B15
Satellite Communications
·
Please check with Logistics Team before returning faulty items for repair.
Page B16
Satellite Communications
REFERENCE LOCATIONS AND CO-ORDINATES
Satellite telephones ask you to input the latitude and longitude. An accuracy to within 5
degrees being sufficient. The following list has been specially compiled to cover all areas
of the world where Oxfam are currently engaged.
International dialling codes (where available) are shown in brackets after each country
name.
Afghanistan
Chahar Borjak
Feyzabad
Herat
Kabul
Mazar-i-Sharif
30N
37N
34N
35N
37N
Albania (355)
Tirana
41N 20E
Algeria (213)
Bechar
Constantine
Chenachane
Ghardaia
Illizi
In Salah
Quallene
Tamanrasset
Tindouf
32N
36N
26N
33N
26N
27N
25N
23N
28N
62E
71E
62E
69E
67E
Bolivia (591)
La Paz
Magdalena
Puerto Rico
Santa Cruz
Tupiza
02W
06E
04W
04E
08E
02E
01E
06E
08W
Angola (244)
Benguela
Cacolo
Dalatando
15E
Folgares
Luanda
Mavinga
15S 15E
08S 13E
26S 20E
Armenia
Yerevan
40N 44E
Azerbaijan
Baku
Gyandzh
40N 50E
41N 47E
68W
64W
68W
63W
66W
Bosnia Herzegovina
Banja Luka
45N
Mostar
43N
Tuzla
45N
Sarajevo
44N
17E
18E
19E
18E
Botswana (267)
Maun
Gaborone
Tshabong
20S 23E
25S 26E
26S 22E
Brazil (55)
Altamira
03S
Aruana
15S
Belem
01S
Boca do Acre
09S
Brasilia
16S
Campina Grande 07S
Campo Grande
20S
Caracarai
02N
Corunba
19S
Cruzeiro do Sul
08S
Floriano
07S
Fortaleza
04S
Governador Valadar 19S
Gradaus
08S
Humaita
08S
Manuas
04S
Mineiros
18S
Natividade
12S
Parintins
03S
Porto Alegre
30S
Riachao
07S
Rio de Janeiro
23S
Salvador
13S
Santo Angelo
28S
Sao Luis
03S
12S 13E
10S 19E
09S
Bangladesh (880)
Chittagong
22N 92E
Dhaka
24N 90E
Saidpur
26N 89E
Bhutan
Thimphu
17S
13S
11S
18S
21S
27N 90E
Page B17
52W
51W
48W
67W
44W
36W
55W
61W
58W
73W
43W
39W
42W
51W
63W
60W
53W
48W
57W
51W
47W
54W
39W
54W
44W
Satellite Communications
Sao Paulo
47W
Serra do Navio
24S
01N 52W
Zagreb
Osijek
Split
46N 16E
46N 19E
43N 16E
Ecuador (593)
Cuenca
Quito
03S 79W
00S 79W
Egypt (20)
Al-Qahirah
Aswan
Cairo
Siwah
30N
24N
30N
29N
Burkina Faso (226)
Bobo Dioulasso
11N 05W
Ouagadougou
12N 01W
Burindi (257)
Bujumbura
Ngozi
03S 29E
03S 30E
Cambodia
Battambang
Phnum Penh
13N 103E
12N 105E
Central African Empire (236)
Bangui
04N 19E
Bria
07N 22E
Gordil
10N 22E
Chad (235)
Am Timan
20E
Koro Toro
Koumra
Ndjamena
15E
Oum Chalouba
Zouar
Chile (56)
Antofagasta
Coihaique
72W
Concepcion
Copiapo
Iquique
Osorno
Porvenir
Puerto Montt
Puerto Natales
Colombia (57)
Bogata
Cartagena
76W
La Chorrera
Popayan
Congo (242)
Gamboma
Pointe-Noire
Quesso
31E
33E
31E
26E
El Salvador (503)
San Salvador
14N 89W
Ethopia (251)
Addis Abeba
Asmera
Begi
Harer
Kebri Dehar
09N
15N
09N
09N
07N
16N 21E
20N 17E
Gambia (220)
Banjul
13N 17W
24S 70W
46S
Georgia
Tbilisi
Sukhumi
42N 45E
43N 41E
Ghana (233)
Kumasi
07N 02W
Guyana (592)
Georgetown
Lethem
07N 58W
03N 60W
Haiti
Port au Prince
19N 72W
Honduras (504)
Tegucigalpa
14N 87W
11N
16N 19E
09N 18E
12N
37S
27S
20S
40S
53S
41S
33S
73W
71W
70W
73W
70W
73W
71W
05N 74W
10N
01S 73W
02N 77W
India (91)
Ahmadabad
Bangalore
78E
Bombay
Calcutta
Delhi
Dibrugarh
02S 16E
05S 12E
02N 16E
Croatia
Page B18
39E
39E
35E
42E
44E
23N 73E
13N
19N
23N
29N
27N
73E
89E
77E
95E
Satellite Communications
Jabalpur
Jalpaiguri
Jodhpur
Madras
Nagpur
Patna
23N
27N
26N
12N
21N
26N
80E
89E
73E
80E
79E
85E
Indonesia (62)
Ambon
Bandung
Banjarmasin
Demta
Denpasar
Dili
Kepi
Kuching
Manado
Medan
Modowi
Palembang
Pontianak
Samarinda
Ujung Pandang
04S 128E
07S 108E
03S 115E
02S 140E
09S 115E
09S 126E
07S 139E
02S 110E
01N 125E
04N 99E
04S 135E
03S 105E
00S 109E
01S 117E
06S 120E
Iran (98)
Bampur
Bandar Abbas
Esfahan
Kerman
Kermanshah
Tabriz
Tehran
27N
27N
33N
30N
34N
38N
36N
33N 44E
Irian Jaya
Fakfak
Jayapura
Merauke
03S 132E
02S 141E
09S 141W
Kenya (254)
Gabun
Lodwar
Lokitaung
Mombasa
Nairobi
Wajir
31N 48E
36N
33N
01S
03N
04N
04S
01S
02N
20N 102E
16N 106E
Lebanon (961)
Beirot
34N 36E
Liberia (231)
Monrovia
06N 11W
Mali (223)
Bamako
Kayes
Timbukto
13N 08W
14N 11W
17N 03W
Malawi (265)
Blantyre
Karanga
Lilongwe
16S 35E
10S 34E
14S 34E
Mauritania (222)
Bir Mogrein
Fderjk
Nouakchott
25N 12W
23N 13W
18N 16W
Mexico (52)
Chihuahua
Durango
Ensenada
117W
Guadalajara
Hernosillo
Merida
Mexico City
Moterrey
San Ignacio
Villahermosa
61E
56E
52E
57E
47E
46E
51E
Iraq (964)
Al-Basrah
Al- Mawsil
43E
Ar-Rutbah
40E
Baghdad
Laos
Louangphrabang
Saravan
29N 106W
24N 105W
21N
21N 103W
29N 111W
21N 90W
19N 99W
26N 100W
27N 113W
18N 93W
Mozambique (258)
Cuamba
15S
Macimboa da Praia 10S
Maputo
26S
Massangena
22S
Maua
14S
Sena
17S
12E
36E
35E
40E
37E
40E
Page B19
37E
40E
32E
23E
37E
35E
Namibia (264)
Epukiro
Karasburg
Ondangua
22S 19E
27S 18E
17S 16E
Nepal (977)
Dandeldhura
Dhankuta
29N 80E
27N 87E
Satellite Communications
Katmandu
85E
08N
Nicaragua (505)
Matagalpa
86W
Nigeria (234)
Kaduna
Lagos
Maiduguri
Makurdi
Oshogbo
03N
11N
06N
12N
08N
08N
07E
03E
13E
09E
05E
Pakistan (92)
Islamabad
73E
Karachi
Multan
Panjgur
25N 67E
30N 71E
27N 64E
Palestine
Gaza
31N 34E
Paraguay (595)
Asuncion
Carreria
Villarrica
25S 57W
22S 59W
26S 56W
Peru (51)
Arequipa
Chiclayo
Cuzco
Uquitos
Lima
16S
07S
14S
04S
12S
Philipines (63)
Davao
Lloilo
Manila
Taytay
07N 126E
11N 123E
15N 121E
11N 120E
Rwanda (250)
Kigali
02S 30E
Senegal (221)
Dakar
Tambacounda
15N 17W
14N 14W
34N
72W
80W
80W
73W
77W
Somalia (252)
Hargeysa
Gardo
Kismayo
Mogadishu
10N
10N
00S
02N
Sri Lanka (94)
Colombo
Jaffna
07N 80E
10N 80E
Sudan (249)
Al-Atrun
Al-Fashir
Al-Khurtum
Bur-Sudan
Fangag
18N
14N
16N
20N
09N
27E
25E
33E
37E
31E
Tanzania (255)
Arusha
Karagwe
Lilongwe
Mahenge
Malawi
Mwanza
Ngara
Rungwa
Shinyanga
03S
01S
14S
08S
12S
03S
02S
07S
04S
37E
31E
34E
37E
35E
33E
31E
32E
34E
Togo (228)
Lome
Mango
06N 01E
10N 00W
Uganda (256)
Kampala
Kasese
Kitgum
00N 32E
00N 30E
03N 33E
44E
49E
43E
45E
United Kingdom (44)
Birmingham
52N 02W
London
51N 00W
Oxford
52N 01W
Edinburgh
56N
03W
Vietnam (848)
Da-Nang
Hanoi
Ho Chi Minh City
Serbia (Yugoslavia (38))
Belgrade
45N 21E
Sierra Leone (232)
Freetown
09N 13W
Yemen (967)
Page B20
16N 108E
21N 106E
11N 107E
Satellite Communications
Mukalla
Sana'
15N 50E
15N 44E
Zaire (243)
Bukavu
Kinshasa
Kisangani
Goma
Likasi
03S
04S
01S
02S
11S
Zimbabwe (263)
Harare
Bulawayo
18S 31E
20S 29E
29E
15E
25E
29E
27E
Page B21
Satellite Communication
OXFAM CODE KSATM-MOBILE SATELLITE UNIT
A mobile satellite unit for international voice, data and fax links to any other international
telephone, modem or fax. Operation from 12-volt DC or 110 to 230 volt AC mains.
Kit contents:
1.
Inmarsat mini-M satphone system for telephone, fax or data transmissions.
Includes:
·
Telephone handset.
·
Built-in Fax and data modem interface.
·
External antenna. (Contained in lid)
·
Power cable for 12-volt car battery with crocodile clips.
·
Power cable for 110 to 230 volt AC mains with 13-amp plug.
·
Antenna extension cable.
·
Cable with adaptor for connection to computer.
·
Instruction manual.
2.
Sollatek Automatic Voltage Switcher AVS13 fitted 13 amp fused plug.
3.
10 metre 4-gang 13-amp extension cable fitted 13 amp fused plug.
4.
3 pin to 2-pin mains adapter.
5.
Fax machine suitably configured for use with mini-M.
Operating on thermal paper. Including:
·
One box fax paper. (6 rolls 210 mm wide, 30 metres long)
·
AC power lead.
·
Telephone/Fax lead suitable for connection to mini-M unit.
Please note: - This kit can be ordered with or without fax machine, whenever possible email data transmission mode should be used. If required the fax must be requested
otherwise it will NOT be included in the kit.
Page B22
Oxfam Communication Manual
VHF
COMMUNICATION
Page C1
VHF Communications
VHF - Short Range Communications
For short-range communications in a local area, VHF radio offers the simplest solution.
As explained below, range will depend upon the terrain and the relative position of each
radio antenna. Direct contact being greater between mobile to fixed stations than
amongst individual hand-held units.
VHF (Very High Frequency) radio waves travel in straight lines similar to a ray of light. In
the same way that buildings, trees, hills, and other obstructions attenuate a torch beam so
are the VHF radio waves similarly attenuated. For reliable day-to-day communication
among stations, 'line of sight' distances are usually advocated. Over stretches of water or
flat level plains using directional antennas and a large amount of power, contact between
stations hundreds of kilometres apart has occasionally been achieved. As a general rule,
daytime, nighttime or the seasons of the year have very little influence upon the strength
and characteristics of a VHF signal. The weather plays a small but normally insignificant
part in the propagation of VHF radio waves. At times, usually during the presence of an
anticyclone, when warm dry air overlays cool moist air, the range of VHF signals can
extend dramatically for short periods of time. Communication with stations up to 2,000
kilometres apart has occasionally been achieved. This effect is very rare and the results
can occasionally be observed as breakthrough from other radio stations or as patterning
upon television pictures during periods of unsettled warm weather.
For any VHF base station the most important factors governing the overall coverage of
the station are the efficiency and height of the antenna and the quality of the antenna
cable. At these higher frequencies, losses due to inferior cable, faulty connections, badly
fitted or non-soldered plugs and poorly installed antennas can be considerable. In an
installation with shoddy workmanship the overall efficiency and coverage can be reduced
by as much as a half or more. To achieve the best results much more care must be
taken during the installation and siting of a VHF base station than need be undertaken
when assembling an HF (High Frequency) station. For all round coverage a vertical
antenna is essential and this will normally be provided in the Oxfam VHF base station
KVHB kit.
VHF radio can be a reliable form of communication as it is not dependent upon the
fluctuations of the Ionosphere, however the maximum reliable range is limited. For base
stations using 25 watts power output in a good location a range of over 40 kilometres
should be achievable. To be really effective the antenna must be located well in the clear
upon a hill or high building. If particularly well positioned this will greatly increase the area
served by the VHF base station transceiver. This is due to a 'line of sight' path existing
between base and hand-held transceivers. When correctly sited, base stations within a
radius of 60 kilometres should be able to communicate with one other.
Under difficult circumstances the use of a VHF beam type antenna at a fixed location can
improve signals in a particular direction. A beam concentrates signals in one direction at
the expense of all others. Using a beam will drastically attenuate signals being
transmitted and received from the back and sides. This type of antenna should only be
considered where ALL signals are coming and going in one fairly narrow direction. Advice
should be sort from the Logistics Team before committing yourself to this course of
action.
Another method to improve all round coverage on VHF is to employ a repeater. This is a
device, which can transmit and receive simultaneously. It will NOT improve coverage of
an existing base station unless sited in a more advantageous location. Further details on
the use of repeaters together with a questionnaire will be found at the end of this chapter.
Page C2
VHF Communications
Oxfam VHF Kits
Two separate VHF radio kits are available from stock in the Logistics Warehouse. Boxes
should be carefully checked against the packing note and any shortages must be reported
as soon as possible. Any faulty goods to be returned at the earliest opportunity.
The KVHB kit consists of an ICOM F1010 VHF base station complete with microphone,
base antenna and 30 meters of cable. If required, provision is made for mounting the
transceiver in a vehicle by providing a suitable mobile antenna. Details of the mobile
antenna installation will be found in the IC-F3S hand-held transceiver section of this
manual. A 12-volt DC power supply (Oxfam KP or KSP kits) and a mast (Oxfam KM kit)
to hold the base station antenna will need to be ordered separately if required. Either the
existing HF antenna mast or a locally procured 2-inch mast can be deployed.
The KVHW kit consists of four hand-held Icom IC-F3S 32 channel programmable
transceivers complete with spare batteries and accessories. Two extra mobile antennas
and 12-volt charge adapters are included, allowing two of the 'walkie-talkies' to be used
efficiently as mobile radios from vehicles. The spare nickel-cadmium batteries can be
charged from vehicles whilst on the move. Rapid battery chargers and spare batteries are
included as part of the package.
The two kits combined together will give each network the initial capability of 4 hand-held
radios and one base station. Extra kits can be added as and when needed.
More detailed description of the component parts of the kits will be found in the next few
pages. The 4 channels that may be pre-programmed into Oxfam VHF radios are as listed
below. Alternative frequencies, CTCSS tones, repeater shifts, etc. can also be
programmed into the radios before dispatch, if required.
CH1-167.500 MHz:
CH3-168.000 MHz:
CH2-167.750 MHz:
CH4-168.250 MHz:
Full instructions and leads are supplied with each kit allowing programming and cloning
on site. Access to a laptop or desk computer is essential as all programming of the units
is via custom software supplied with the kit. Instructions for programming basic frequency
requirements of base and hand-held transceivers are included in this manual.
IMPORTANT:
Report any shortages and return any faulty items to Logistics Team, Humanitarian Dept.
as soon as possible. Only by inspection of items can the cause of the trouble be
ascertained and steps taken to improve reliability.
CAUTION:
Permanent damage will result if the power supply polarity is reversed whilst connecting
12-volt equipment. Always double check to make sure that the RED (+) wire goes to the
positive terminal and the BLACK (-) wire goes to the negative terminal.
Page C3
VHF Communications
Installation and Operating Notes
BASE ANTENNA
Assembly of the antenna is straightforward. A small adjustable spanner or metric
spanner and screwdriver are all that is required. Do not over tighten the bolts. It is only
necessary to screw the three rods into the base of the antenna before tightening them
with the spanner. Do not use force. The special type of coaxial cable "N" type plug fitted
to ONE end of the cable should be connected to the socket located underneath the base
of the antenna. Insulating or self-amalgamating tape can be wrapped around the plug to
protect the joint from the weather.
Mount the antenna as high and in the clear as possible using the 2-inch mast clamp
provided. To achieve maximum height may entail lowering an existing mast. This is
preferable to locating the VHF antenna at a lower level. Keep well clear from other VHF
antennas. It is especially important to place the antenna either above or well away from
other vertical pieces of metal. Taking extra care with the installation of a VHF antenna will
pay dividends by improving both transmit and receive coverage. Nylon ties are provided
in the Oxfam kit to fasten the coaxial cable down the mast. They should be positioned
about one meter apart. Please use them to keep the cable run tidy. If possible avoid
sharp corners and small bends when routing cable. If necessary the cable can be buried
but take care, as damage to the outer plastic covering should be avoided at all costs. Any
moisture penetrating the covering of the antenna cable will seriously affect the efficiency
of the system. Surplus cable should be coiled into as large a diameter as possible before
being secured with nylon ties. Do not use metal wire or ties around the coax cable
coil. In a permanent location any excess cable may be cut off, the coaxial plug being
carefully re-soldered onto the end. Do not attempt to remove the special "N" type coaxial
plug (connects to the antenna), as it is difficult to re-assemble. Connect the PL259 plug
at the radio end of the antenna cable to the S0239 socket located on the rear of the
transceiver.
MOBILE ANTENNA
Supplied as part of the Oxfam KVHB kit is a mobile antenna, complete with mounting
hardware. This is to be used when the Icom IC1010 needs to be utilised as a mobile unit
to extend the VHF communication range of a vehicle. The output power of the IC1010 is
approximately eight times greater than that of the Icom IC3S handheld radio. For
installation details please refer to the instructions on page C16. Please note the mobile
antenna for the IC1010 is not interchangeable with the ICF3S mobile antennas without
special adaptors.
EARTH ROD
An earth rod and clamp with a 5-meter length of single core cable are provided in the
KVHB kit. It is recommended that this is installed at all HF and VHF base station
locations. If an HF base radio is in use, the earth wire should be connected to the rear of
this radio first before linking to any other earthing points. Suitable alternative earthing
points include one of the mobile mounting bracket fixing bolts on the Icom F1010. DO
NOT CONNECT EARTH WIRE TO POSITIVE TERMINAL OF BATTERY.
The use of an earthing system is most important where the antenna mast is located on
top of a building and isolated from ground. Do not simple rely upon that provided by the
office or house wiring. It could be disconnected or non-existent. The copper earth rod
needs to be driven well into the soil after the wire has been attached to the clamp. Best
results will be achieved where the ground is permanently moist. A good earth system
Page C4
VHF Communications
besides being a safety device where static and electrical storms are experienced will also
help to eliminate problematic interference.
Page C5
VHF Communications
POWER SUPPLY
The Oxfam KP kit has sufficient capacity to supply power to the HF and VHF base
stations simultaneously. Connect the supplied red / black power cable to 12-volt DC only.
NEVER connect to a 240-volt AC supply or to 24-volt DC source. Red to Positive (+) and
Black to negative (-). Connecting a 12-volt battery in parallel with the supply with keep the
base station operating when the mains power goes off. When the power is on, the battery
is being trickle charged to maintain its capacity. Further detailed instructions can be
found in the Power section of this manual.
BATTERY SUPPLY
It is sometimes difficult to obtain a suitable electrical power supply in remote regions. The
12-volt, high capacity battery in the Oxfam KP or KSP kits offer an ideal solution to the
problem of powering a VHF base radio. It is advisable to connect the supply leads
directly to the battery through a fuse using soldered lugs or to provide a special nonreversible socket. If the base radio is to be used in a vehicle for any length of time it is
not considered good practice to take power directly from the cigarette lighter socket. The
normal lighter plug and socket arrangement is not very reliable, especially when on the
move, and a more permanent connection is recommended. In order to protect the power
cable between battery and radio the fuse holders should be located as close to the battery
as possible.
Please Note: - The hand-held Icom F30LT transceiver battery can be charged from a
vehicle cigarette lighter socket in conjunction with the BC-119 charger and lead supplied.
Connecting the VHF Base System.
Antenna
Coaxial Cable
Cable MUST be connected to a
Regulated 12volt power source
+
-
Extension
Speaker
Microphone
Fuses
12volt Battery
or Power Supply
. ICOM F1010
Transceiver
2 Pin connector
Page C6
Coaxial
Socket
VHF Communications
ICOM F1010 VHF Base Station
The ICOM F1010 is a fully programmable 25 watt transceiver. It is designed as a rugged
mobile or base station radio using either a 12-volt battery or stabilised 12-volt power
source. Under no circumstances must the transceiver supply lead be plugged into
a 230 volt AC supply. Up to 32 channels between 148 MHz and 174 MHz can be
programmed using the integral keypad. Each transceiver is supplied with a microphone,
microphone hook, extension loud speaker, mobile mounting bracket and power lead with
programming and instruction manuals. It is suggested that the Icom instruction book is
read carefully before connecting and using the unit. Guidelines for installation and
operating the transceiver will be found in this manual.
Front Panel
MICROPHONE
Connect the microphone plug to the socket situated on the bottom left-hand side of the
front panel. Take care to locate it correctly in the socket. The small lever on the plug is
located in a slot on the bottom of the socket. It is similar in construction to a telephone
plug. To remove, hold body of plug top and bottom, squeeze lever and pull. If tight, pull
back the rubber boot to expose the body of the plug and ease gently from the socket
whilst pushing the lever upwards.
Do not use force. The microphone hanger should be
fixed in a convenient position either close to the transceiver or fastened to the side of the
radio utilising one of the mobile bracket mounting holes. Do not use a bolt longer than the
short plastic headed screws provided with the kit. An earth wire connected between the
hanger and the case of the transceiver will allow the scan facility to be utilised.
The microphone is positioned a few inches from the mouth and the PTT (Push to Talk)
lever should be pushed and held before commencing talking at normal voice level.
Release PTT to listen for a reply.
EXTERNAL LOUDSPEAKER
The separate loudspeaker supplied with the kit is for use either in a noisy environment or
where the volume of speech coming from the built in transceiver speaker is not sufficient.
The miniature jack plug terminated lead should be plugged into the socket provided on
the rear panel of the set. If necessary it can also be used on the HF base or mobile
station.
Page C7
VHF Communications
Operating the Controls
RECEIVING
·
·
·
·
·
·
Press the Power switch (Small blue button, bottom right of display (See front panel
layout on previous page) to turn power on. A tone will be heard through the
loudspeaker, the word "OXFAM" should appear on the display for a few seconds,
followed by the last channel entered. Release button when display panel lights up
To change channel push one of the “up-down” buttons situated just above the power
switch.
Adjust volume control clockwise to increase sound to a suitable level.
If programmed correctly it should not be possible to turn the sound off completely.
When a call is received the display will indicate with a busy symbol on the display
and noise will be heard from the loudspeaker.
Do not transmit while you can hear others having a conversation.
To turn the power off, press and hold the power switch until the display disappears.
TRANSMITTING
Before transmitting check to make sure one else is using the channel. Remove
microphone from its hanger, this will stop the scan facility, if enabled, from operating.
Listen briefly to make sure no one else is speaking, and, holding the face of the
microphone a few inches away from your face press and hold down the PTT (Press to
Talk) switch. The switch will be found on the side of the microphone. This will put the
transceiver into transmit mode. Speak across the face of the microphone, not directly into
it, for best results. Talk in a normal voice, shouting will only cause distortion of the
received signal. Release the PTT to revert back to receive.
PROGRAMMING
Everything is provided in the KVHB kit to enable computer programming of the Icom
IC1010. It is advisable to use this method of changing the frequencies and other
parameters already programmed into the transceiver. As supplied, the transceiver comes
ready for use with four standard channels installed. These correspond to those already
programmed into the F3S hand held radios. Although it is entirely possible to alter
frequencies etc, from the keys it is much quicker, easier and more reliable to utilise the
software method. If a computer is not available, programming can, with difficulty, be
carried out via the push buttons on the radio. Refer to the ICOM programming manual
supplied as part of the KVHB kit for further details.
Altering frequencies and other features of the ICOM F1010 transceiver should be through
the use of the ICOM EX-1764 series software and cables that accompany the transceiver.
Before using the software, make a back-up copy of the floppy disk and use the back-up
copy to program the computer. Store the original floppy disk in a safe place. DOS based
software needs to be copied from the supplied floppy disk to a directory on the hard disk
of the PC. The software will not run properly from the floppy disk. To do this:
Click on the START button and choose the options PROGRAMS- MSDOS-PROMPT to
move to the DOS prompt.
1. Type CD C:\ [Enter] to move to root directory.
2. Type MD F1010 at the C:\> DOS prompt to create a new directory.
3. Type CD F1010 at the C:\> DOS prompt to change to the new directory.
4. Type Copy A:\*.* [Enter] to copy the contents of the floppy disk to the new
directory.
5. Type EXIT to return to Windows operating system.
Page C8
VHF Communications
Program has been copied to the C:\ F1010 directory and is now ready to use. A shortcut
can be created on the main Windows screen by:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Press the Right-hand mouse button to display a menu list.
Select the option New from the list.
Select the option Shortcut from the displayed list to create a new shortcut.
Type C:\F1010\EX1764.EXE at the command line.
Click the Next button.
Type F1010 Software in the description field.
Click the Next button.
Select an Icon (for example, the globe).
Click the Finish button.
Cloning
Connect the transceiver to the computer before opening the program as instructed below.
Existing information stored in the transceiver should be transferred to the screen by an
operation known as cloning.
Once the information contained in the transceiver has been obtained, it is important to
make a copy before commencing any alteration of the existing parameters. To read
information from the transceiver, run the EX1764 program and:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Press the Alt key to activate the menu bar.
Press the Right-Arrow key to move to the Clone option on the menu bar.
Press the Down-Arrow key to highlight the Read option from the drop-down list.
Press Enter to initiate the read process.
A message will appear on the computer screen “Cloning: Reading Tcvr”. On the
transceiver LCD screen, a message will be displayed to confirm that the PC is reading
from the transceiver. If an error message appears, make sure the cable is connected to
the correct port. The default port is Port 1. Use the following method to change to Port 2:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Press Alt key to activate the menu bar.
Press the Right-Arrow key to move to Setup option on the menu bar.
Press the Down-Arrow key to highlight the RS-232C option from the drop-down
list.
Press Enter then change to Port 2.
Press the Left-Arrow key to return to Setup option.
Once the cloning process has finished, the operator can save the settings to a file, edit as
necessary and write new settings back to the transceiver.
Connecting Transceiver to the PC
Before the software stored on the PC can be used to program the transceiver, the cable
supplied with the KVHB kit has to be connected between the PC and transceiver.
1.
2.
Insert one end of the cable with the female d-sub connector into the 9-pin serial
port.
Insert the other end of the cable into the microphone socket.
Page C9
VHF Communications
Programming Frequencies into the Transceiver
Please make sure that the Icom F1010 transceiver and PC are connected to each other
using the serial cable supplied with the transceiver. The transceiver must be switched
ON.
1. Double-click on the F1010 Programming software shortcut icon to run the software.
2. Highlight the IC-F1010 Series option from the menu list displayed on the screen.
3. Press Enter to run the software.
4. Refer to previous notes on Cloning before attempting to input new parameters.
Because the software is DOS based, all commands are initiated by pressing a
combination of the Alt and Arrow keys. For example, to activate the menu bar, press the
Alt key. Once the programming screen appears you can use the Arrow keys to move
around the menu system.
The screen contains a number of columns, which can be accessed to change the
contents. On the left side of the screen is shown a column with a series of channel
numbers starting from one down to sixteen. This relates to the number of channels
available for programming.
To enter a receive and transmit frequency:
1. Position the cursor, using the arrow keys under the Freq Rx column to be altered or
programmed.
2. Enter a frequency setting between 146.000 and 174.000 MHz.
3. For example, type in a receive frequency of 167.500.
4. Press Enter to confirm and store the new frequency.
5. Display should now show the new frequency as 167.500.
6. Press the Right-Arrow key once to move the cursor under the Freq Tx column.
7. Arrow symbols in Freq Tx column indicate that transmit and receive frequencies are
identical.
Where the transmit frequency differs from the receive frequency, for operation through a
repeater for instance, then:
1. Enter the required transmit frequency within the ranges stated above under the Freq
Tx column.
2. Press Enter to confirm and store the new frequency.
3. Press the Right-Arrow key three times to move the cursor to the Comment column.
4. Type a description identifying the newly created channel, such as Oxfam1.
5. Press Enter to confirm and store the description.
6. Press the Right-Arrow key once. Set PWR SAVE to ON. This feature will enable a
sleep mode to conserve the battery power during use.
7. Press Enter to select the OFF option for TOT. If this option is set to ON, it will inhibit
continuous transmission to a set time period.
8. Press Enter to set RF Level rating to High.
Saving Transceiver Settings
When the settings have been entered and confirmed, it is advisable to save them in a
new file. To do this:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Press the Alt key to activate the menu bar.
Press the Down-Arrow key twice to highlight the Save option.
Press Enter.
Type a new filename into the waiting field to save the settings.
C:\F1010\ example.icf
Press Enter to confirm and store the filename.
Page C10
For example,
VHF Communications
Writing New Settings to Transceiver
Once the new file has been saved to disc, the changed parameters need to be written to
the F1010 transceiver. Make sure the cable is connected and the transceiver is switched
on:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Press the Alt key to activate the menu bar.
Press the Right-arrow key twice to highlight the Clone option.
Press the Down-Arrow key once to highlight the Write option.
Press Enter to confirm and initiate the write process.
A message will appear on the screen “Writing to TCVR”. The transceiver LCD screen it
will read “Clone In” to confirm the PC is writing to the transceiver. Once cloning has
finished the transceiver can be removed from the cable.
Exiting the program
1.
2.
3.
Press the Alt key to activate the menu bar.
Press the Down-Arrow key five times to highlight the Exit option.
Press Enter to confirm the closure of the program.
ICOM IC-F3S TRANSCEIVER
The ICOM IC-F3S is a compact fully programmable VHF portable transceiver.
The transceiver can be programmed with up to 32 channels between 146 MHz – 174
MHz.
Four standard channels may have been programmed into the transceivers before
despatch. Each transceiver is supplied with instruction manuals, a rubber flex antenna,
spare high capacity rechargeable battery pack (Ni-Cad), a rapid battery charger and
software with cables for programming various parameters. Also supplied with each pack
of four transceivers are two antenna assemblies suitable for fitting to vehicles. Please
note these are NOT interchangeable with those supplied in the KVHB base station kit. It
is suggested that the instruction manuals are read carefully before using the transceiver.
Guidelines for using and operating the transceiver will be found in this manual, together
with some programming and cloning instructions.
ICOM F3S Description
1. Volume Control [OFF/VOL]
2. PTT Switch [PTT]. Push and hold to Transmit.
3. Up/Down Keys. Push to select channel.
4.
Programmable Keys. Can be programmed for
several … functions using software provided.
5. Antenna. Remove to fit mobile antenna if required.
6. Sp / Mic Jack. Connects speaker/microphone.
Also
used for connecting programming cable.
7. Activity Led. Lights red whilst transmitting.
8. Function Display. Displays information on function.
Please Note: The Function Display shows various
items of information depending upon the presetting
including:
Channel Number, Low-Battery, SkipChannel, Low-Power, Audible Indication
Page C11
VHF Communications
RECEIVING
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Switch the transceiver ON by rotating the Volume Control (1) clockwise to the
12 o’clock position. A tone will be heard and OXFAM will appear on the LCD
screen. After a few seconds this will change to display a channel number.
Press one of the Up/Down keypads (3) to select a channel. Listen for a
transmission and adjust the Volume Control (1) to a comfortable listening level.
The transceiver is now set to receive calls on the selected channel.
Channels can be changed by using the Up/Down keypads (3)
Once switched on, if required, the transceiver can also be placed into the Scan
mode to allow monitoring of all programmed channels.
To enable the scanning function: Press the Scan keypad to start the
transceiver scanning. The scan will pause on the first channel which has
activity. To move to another channel without stopping scan press one of the
Up/Down keys.
Press PTT (2) briefly or the scan key to stop on a channel.
TRANSMITTING
1.
2.
3.
4.
Switch the transceiver into receive mode as explained on previous page.
Make sure you are on the correct operating channel by looking at the display.
Listen for any other voices on the channel; wait until it becomes clear before
making a transmission, avoiding confusion and interfering with other users on
the frequency.
Once satisfied that the channel is clear, press and hold the PTT (Push to Talk)
(2) key and speak into the microphone at a NORMAL voice level. The
microphone is situated near the word ICOM behind the front panel of the radio.
Make sure the transceiver Antenna is in an upright position at all times to improve
both reception and transmission.
Page C12
VHF Communications
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING NOTES
BATTERIES
As supplied, the batteries may have a small amount of residual capacity and will require
charging before use. They will also need to be discharged and recharged a couple of
times before developing full capacity. Charge the batteries as soon as they become fully
discharged. Do not allow them to remain in a fully discharged state for long. The battery
packs provided have been chosen for their large capacity, and in normal daily use it
should not be necessary to carry a spare. However, if utilised a great deal, the battery
should be changed for a freshly charged one every day. Batteries should be replaced
when they show signs of losing their capacity to hold a charge. Under certain conditions
rechargeable batteries develop a 'memory' preventing them from holding a full charge.
Stop this occurring by COMPLETELY discharging the batteries through normal use before
recharging.
POWER MUST BE TURNED OFF BEFORE REMOVING OR RE-FITTING BATTERY.
Remove battery pack, Press down the lever located on the rear of the battery just below
the transceiver top plate, then pull the battery away the transceiver. The ICOM clip on the
battery should be removed and refitted on to a fully charged battery.
To attach battery pack, locate bottom in clip on radio before pushing battery towards case
until it clicks into place. Do not forget to change belt clip.
CHARGING
The ICOM BC-119 battery charger supplied with the kit can fully charge a battery in about
two hours. Once the battery has reached full charge the charger reverts to trickle charge
mode. In this state the charge will be maintained until required. The battery may be
placed in the charger without removing it from the radio. Do NOT switch on the radio
while the battery is being charged, as this will increase the charge time. The charger is
supplied with a 240-volt AC adapter and a vehicle cigarette lighter adapter lead. The
batteries can be charged, using the correct adapter, from either a mains power source or
a 12-volt car battery. Do not, under any circumstances, plug the charger directly into a
240-volt AC power source.
WARNING:
Do NOT transmit while connected to an active charger.
BC-119 RAPID BATTERY CHARGER
The BP196 batteries can be charged with or without removal from the F3S by moving the
guide plate in the charging slot of the BC-119 charger. The dial on the radio or the label
on the battery must face towards the front of the charger. Full charge should take
approximately 2 hours. If possible, fully discharge the batteries through normal use
before recharging.
VEHICLE USE
Supplied as part of the KVHW kit are cigarette lighter adapter leads for use with the BC119 charger. The adaptor lead contains an internal fuse. DO NOT transmit, whilst the ICF3S is inserted in the charger, as damage could be caused to the transceiver or lead.
Whilst operating the ICOM IC-F3S in a vehicle, it is advisable to make use of the quarter
Page C13
VHF Communications
wave mobile antenna supplied, rather than the rubber flex antenna. This will improve both
transmission and reception coverage considerably.
Page C14
VHF Communications
FLEX ANTENNA
To allow the use of alternative types of antenna the supplied flexible antenna (lcom FASC54V) can be removed from the transceiver by unscrewing. Do not use force when
refitting. DO NOT USE THE ANTENNA AS A CARRYING HANDLE. Though flexible, the
antenna will be broken if misused. When the transceiver is being used the antenna
should be vertical. This will give the best receive and transmit performance from the
radio.
MOBILE ANTENNA.
Two complete mobile antenna assemblies are contained in the Oxfam KVHW kit, while
one assembly will be found in the KVHB box. Cable assemblies can be fitted either to the
gutter clamp, which is then fastened onto the rain gutter of the vehicle, or (and this is the
preferred though a more difficult option) a hole can be drilled in the centre of the cab roof
to take the S0239 socket. If this second option is used, please ensure the joint is
waterproofed by placing the rubber washer provided between the roof and nut. The
quarter wave antenna screws onto the socket. Route the coaxial cable so that it does not
interfere with or get trapped under any moving items. Take care not to damage the outer
covering of the cable. For maximum efficiency the antenna should be located in the clear
and as high as possible on the vehicle roof. The chart below gives the length of the whip
antenna when used at various frequencies. Please check and adjust accordingly.
Maximum signal will only be transmitted when the length of the whip is close to the correct
length.
PLEASE NOTE;
Mobile antennas are NOT interchangeable.
Cutting Chart for 1/4 wave mobile antenna.
A
n
t
e
n
n
a
430
420
L
e
n
g
t
h
410
i
n
390
m
m
380
400
.
370
155
160
165
170
173
Frequency in Mhz
IMPORTANT:
The above chart is intended to be an approximate guide only. Trimming can be
accomplished by filing a notch in the stainless steel whip and breaking off the surplus.
Page C15
VHF Communications
PROGRAMMING THE ICOM F3S VHF TRANSCEIVER
Altering frequencies and other features of the ICOM F3S transceiver can only be
achieved through the use of the IC-F3/F4 series software that accompanies the
transceiver.
Before using the software, make a back-up copy of the floppy disk and use the back-up
copy to program the computer. Store the original floppy disk in a safe place.
DOS based software needs to be copied from the supplied floppy disk to a directory on
the hard disk of the PC. The software will not run properly from the floppy disk. To do
this:
1. Move to the DOS prompt.
2. Type CD C:\ [Enter] to move to root directory.
3. Type MD F3S at the C:\> DOS prompt to create a new directory.
4. Type CD F3S at the C:\> DOS prompt to change to the new directory.
5. Type Copy A:\*.* [Enter] to copy the contents of the floppy disk to the new directory.
6. Type EXIT to return to Windows operating system.
Program has been copied to the C:\ F3S directory and is now ready to use. A shortcut
can be created on the main Windows screen by:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Press the Right-hand mouse button to display a menu list.
Select the option New from the list.
Select the option Shortcut from the displayed list to create a new shortcut.
Type C:\F3S\ICCF3.EXE at the command line.
Click the Next button.
Type F3S Program Software in the description field.
Click the Next button.
Select an Icon (for example, the satellite dish).
Click the Finish button.
Cloning
Connect the transceiver to the computer before opening the program as instructed below.
Existing information stored in the transceiver should be transferred to the screen by an
operation known as cloning.
Once the information has been obtained by cloning it is important to make a copy before
commencing any alteration of the existing parameters. To read information from the
transceiver, run the program and:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Press the Alt key to activate the menu bar.
Press the Right-Arrow key to move to the Clone option on the menu bar.
Press the Down-Arrow key to highlight the Read option from the drop-down list.
Press Enter to initiate the read process.
A message will appear on the computer screen “Cloning: Now Reading Tcvr”. On the
transceiver LCD screen, the message “clout” will be displayed to confirm that the PC is
reading from the transceiver. If an error message appears, make sure the cable is
connected to the correct port. The default port is Port 1. Use the following method to
change to Port 2:
1. Press Alt key to activate the menu bar.
2. Press the Right-Arrow key to move to Setup option on the menu bar.
3. Press the Down-Arrow key to highlight the RS-232C option from the drop-down list.
4. Press Enter to change to Port 2.
Page C16
VHF Communications
Once the process has finished, the operator can save the settings to a file, edit as
necessary and write new settings back to the transceiver.
Connecting Transceiver to the PC
Before the software stored on the PC can be used to program the transceiver, the cable
supplied with the KVHB kit has to be connected between the PC and transceiver.
1.
2.
Insert one end of the cable with the female d-sub connector into the 9-pin serial port.
Insert the other end of the cable with the jack plug into the socket marked Sp located
under the rubber cover next to the antenna.
Programming Frequencies into the Transceiver
Please make sure that the Icom F3S transceiver and PC are connected to each other
using the serial cable supplied with the transceiver.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Switch the transceiver On.
Double-click on the F3S Programming software shortcut icon to run the
software.
Highlight the IC-F3/F4 Series option from the menu list displayed on the screen.
Press Enter to run the software.
Refer to previous notes on Cloning before attempting to input new parameters.
Because the software is DOS based, all commands are initiated by pressing a
combination of the Alt and Arrow keys. For example, to activate the menu bar, press the
Alt key. Once the programming screen appears you can use the Arrow keys to move
around the menu system.
Once cloning has taken place, as described on previous page, you are presented with a
screen containing a number of columns, which can be accessed to change the contents.
On the left side of the screen, you are shown a column with a series of channel numbers
starting from one down to sixteen. This relates to the number of channels available in the
Transceiver.
Entering a Receive and Transmit Frequency:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Position the cursor, using the arrow keys under the Freq Rx column to be
altered or programmed.
Enter a frequency setting between 146.000 and 174.000 MHz.
For example, type in a receive frequency of 167.500.
Press Enter to confirm and store the new frequency.
Display should now show the new frequency as 167.500.
Press the Right-Arrow key once to move the cursor under the Freq Tx column.
The arrow shows transmit and receive frequencies are identical.
When a transmit frequency differs from the receive frequency, for operation through a
repeater for instance, then:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Enter the required transmit frequency within the ranges stated above under the
Freq Tx column.
Press Enter to confirm and store the new frequency.
Press the Right-Arrow key three times to move the cursor under the Comment
column.
Type a description identifying the newly created channel, such as Oxfam1.
Press Enter to confirm and store the description.
Page C17
VHF Communications
Saving Transceiver Settings
When the settings have been entered and confirmed, it is advisable to save them in a
new file. To do this:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Press the Alt key to activate the menu bar. Select File with arrow keys.
Press the Down-Arrow key twice to highlight the Save option. Press Enter.
Type a new filename into the waiting field to save the settings.
For example, C:\F3S\ example2.icf.
Press Enter to confirm and store the filename.
Writing to Transceiver
Once the new file has been saved to disc, the changed parameters need to be written to
the F3S transceiver. Make sure the cable is connected and the transceiver is switched
on:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Press the Alt key to activate the menu bar.
Press the Right-arrow key twice to highlight the Clone option.
Press the Down-Arrow key once to highlight the Write option.
Press Enter to confirm and initiate the write process.
Message now appears on the screen “Writing to TCVR”. The transceiver LCD screen will
read “clout” to confirm the PC is writing to the transceiver. Once cloning has finished the
transceiver can be removed from the cable.
Exiting the program
1.
2.
3.
Press the Alt key to activate the menu bar.
Press the Down-Arrow key five times to highlight the Exit option.
Press Enter to confirm the closure of the program.
IMPORTANT
MAKE A FILE COPY BEFORE EXITING PROGRAM.
DO NOT ALTER PARAMETERS UNLESS SURE OF CONSEQUENCES.
Page C18
VHF Communications
ICOM IC-F30LT TRANSCEIVER
The ICOM F30LT is a compact fully programmable VHF portable transceiver. The F3S
model has superseded it. The transceiver can be programmed with up to 96 channels
(6X16) between 146 MHz and 174 MHz. Each transceiver is supplied with instruction and
programming manuals, a rubber flex antenna, spare high capacity rechargeable battery
pack and a rapid battery charger. Software and cables for programming are also supplied
as part of the F30LT Oxfam KVHB kit. It is suggested that the instruction book is read
carefully before using the transceiver. Guidelines for using and operating the transceiver
will be found in this manual together with field programming and cloning instructions.
RECEIVING
Rotate volume control-on/off switch clockwise to turn power on. A tone should be heard
and "OXFAM" will appear on the display screen. This will change to display a channel
number.
To change the channel, rotate the large 16-position knob located on top of radio. The
display will change to indicate desired operating channel.
Turn the VOL. control knob to the 12 o'clock position.
When a call is received the BUSY/TX indicator light (located in front of the channel
change switch) will show green. Turn the volume control for a comfortable listening level.
Do not transmit whilst the green LED is displayed.
If the voice is weak or intermittent press and hold the top button on side of transceiver.
The noise squelch system will be defeated allowing poor signals to be heard. Release
button to return to normal operating mode.
To turn power off, rotate volume control anti-clockwise until a click is heard and the
display disappears.
TRANSMITTING
Before transmitting check the BUSY/TX indicator LED. If it is showing green, even
though you may not be able to hear anyone, someone else is probably using the channel.
Pushing the top button on the side of transceiver should allow you to listen in. If
BUSY/TX light is off, press and hold the PTT (press to talk) large switch located on side of
transceiver. BUSY/TX light should show red. The radio is now in transmitting mode.
Release the PTT to return to receive.
Page C19
VHF Communications
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING NOTES
BATTERIES
As supplied, the batteries may have a small amount of residual capacity and will require
charging before use. They will also need to be discharged and recharged a couple of
times before developing full capacity. Charge the batteries as soon as they become fully
discharged. Do not allow them to remain in a discharged state for long. The battery packs
provided have been chosen for their large capacity, and in normal daily use it should not
be necessary to carry a spare. However, if utilised a great deal, the battery should be
changed for a freshly charged one each day. Batteries should be replaced when they
show signs of losing their capacity charge. Under certain conditions rechargeable
batteries develop a 'memory' preventing them from holding a full charge. Stop this
occurring by COMPLETELY discharging the batteries through normal use before
recharging.
POWER MUST BE TURNED OFF BEFORE REMOVING OR RE-FITTING BATTERY.
To remove battery pack, push and hold the battery pack release button forward (in
direction of the transceiver front panel), then slide the battery off the transceiver.
To attach battery pack, locate the four prongs on the transceiver chassis with the four
slots in the battery pack, slide the battery up until it clicks into place.
CHARGING
The ICOM BM-96 battery charger supplied with the kit can fully charge a battery in about
two hours. Once the battery has reached full charge the charger reverts to trickle charge
mode. In this state the charge will be maintained until required. The battery may be
placed in the charger without removing it from the radio. Do NOT switch on the radio
while the battery is being charged, as this will increase the charge time. The charger is
supplied with a 240-volt AC adapter and a vehicle cigarette lighter adapter lead. The
batteries can be charged, using the correct adapter, from either a mains power source or
a 12-volt car battery. Do not, under any circumstances, plug the charger directly into a
240-volt AC power source.
WARNING:
Do NOT transmit while connected to an active charger.
BM-96 RAPID BATTERY CHARGER
The CM142 batteries can be charged with or without removal from the F30LT by moving
the guide plate in the charging slot of the BM-96 charger. The dial on the radio or the
label on the battery must face towards the front of the charger. Full charge should take
approximately 2 hours. If possible, fully discharge the batteries through normal use
before recharging.
VEHICLE USE
Supplied as part of the KVHW kit are cigarette lighter adapter leads for use with the BM96 charger. The adaptor lead contains an internal fuse. DO NOT transmit, whilst the ICF30LT is inserted in the charger, as damage could be caused to the transceiver or lead.
Whilst operating the ICOM IC-F30LT in a vehicle, it is advisable to make use of the
Page C20
VHF Communications
quarter wave mobile antenna supplied, rather than the rubber flex antenna. This will
improve both transmission and reception coverage considerably.
Page C21
VHF Communications
FLEX ANTENNA
To allow the use of alternative types of antenna the supplied flexible antenna (lcom FASC54V) can be removed from the transceiver. Do not use force when refitting. DO NOT
USE THE ANTENNA AS A CARRYING HANDLE. Though flexible, the antenna will be
broken if misused. When the transceiver is being used the antenna should be vertical.
This will give the best receive and transmit performance from the radio.
MOBILE ANTENNA.
Two complete mobile antenna assemblies are contained in the Oxfam KVHW kit, while
one assembly will be found in the KVHB box. Cable assemblies can be fitted either to the
gutter clamp, which is then fastened onto the rain gutter of the vehicle, or (and this is the
preferred though a more difficult option) a hole can be drilled in the centre of the cab roof
to take the S0239 socket. If this second option is used, please ensure the joint is
waterproofed by placing the rubber washer provided between the roof and nut. The
quarter wave antenna screws onto the socket. Route the coaxial cable so that it does not
interfere with or get trapped under any moving items. Take care not to damage the outer
covering of the cable. For maximum efficiency the antenna should be located in the clear
and as high as possible on the vehicle roof. The chart below gives the length of the whip
antenna when used at various frequencies. Please check and adjust accordingly.
Maximum signal will only be transmitted when the length of the whip is close to the correct
length.
PLEASE NOTE;
Mobile antennas are NOT interchangeable.
Cutting Chart for 1/4 wave mobile antenna.
A
n
t
e
n
n
a
430
420
L
e
n
g
t
h
410
i
n
390
m
m
380
400
.
370
155
160
165
170
173
Frequency in Mhz
IMPORTANT:
The above chart is intended to be an approximate guide only. Trimming can be
accomplished by filing a notch in the stainless steel whip and breaking off the surplus.
Page C22
VHF Communications
PROGRAMMING THE F30LT
Although all of the basic functions can be programmed into the F30LT using the keypad
and function buttons it is recommended that a computer and the supplied software be
used.
Computer programming is much faster, more accurate and reliable.
The following instructions allow input of data from the keypad when software etc. is not
available. Except for 6 items the transceiver must be in the SET MODE before
programming can begin. Step A and B will take you from normal operating to
programming mode.
A.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Entering the SET programming mode.
Whilst pushing and holding [PTT] and [Po], turn on power.
"– – – – – –". Appears on the display screen.
Enter the 6 digit password (159357)
Press [Po] if mistake is made and re-enter digits. The display should flash.
Press ENTER. "SET MODE" appears on screen.
Note. If unable to access mode, display shows “SORRY”, programming can only take
place via computer software.
The transceiver is now in SET programming mode. PTT, and receiver are inoperative.
The radio will remain in this condition until power is switched off.
B.
Entering SET modes 1 to 7. Display should show "SET MODE"
1.
2.
3.
Whilst pressing [—] (located on side of transceiver), push 2 on keypad. Display
will change to "ch01". You are now in SET programming mode 2 on channel 01.
This will allow programming of receive and transmit frequencies, etc. on
channel No 1.
To program a different channel, press Ý or #.
To enter a different programming mode push [Po], display steps back to show
SET MODE. Repeat step 2 replacing digit 2 to one between 1 and 7 whilst
pressing [—] on side of radio.
Exiting SET modes 1 to 7.
1. To cancel SET programming mode, return to "SET MODE" by pressing (Po).
2. Turn power OFF and back ON.
3. PTT and receive should then operate normally.
Programming a receive frequency.
1. Follow A and B above until "ch##" is displayed.
2. Select channel to be programmed using Ý or # on key pad.
3. Push 8 to select.
4. Hold down [—] (side of radio) whilst pressing 5. The stored receive frequency will
be displayed
5. Input new frequency using key pad. Press ENTER to store.
6. Press (Po) to return to SET MODE.
Programming a transmit frequency.
1. Follow A and B above until "ch## " is displayed.
2. Select channel to be programmed using Ý or # on keypad.
3. Push 8 to select.
4. Hold down [—] (side of radio) whilst pressing 4. The stored transmit frequency
will be displayed.
Page C23
VHF Communications
5.
6.
Input new frequency using keypad. Press ENTER to store.
Press (Po) to return to SET MODE
Page C24
VHF Communications
Programming TX and RX CTCSS tones.
1. Follow steps A and B until "ch##" is displayed.
2. Select channel to be programmed using Ý or # on keypad.
3. Push 8 to select.
4. Hold down [—] whilst pressing 1 or 2. Display should show either TC OFF, RC
OFF or TC ###/.# , RC ###.# (###.# = CTCSS tones.
5. If OFF is displayed push [—] and press 8. If TD or RD are displayed, push # to
change to TC or RC.
6. Display should now show TC or RC together with tone frequencies. Use either
(P1) or (P2) to select correct CTCSS tones.
7. Push (Po) to return to channel display.
Please note:
## = Channel number
TC = Transmit CTCSS tones.
RC = Receive CTCSS tones. (Po) steps program to SET MODE
Other Programming Options.
Please refer to manual supplied with the KVHW kit for more comprehensive information
on other programming features.
CLONING THE F30LT
Included in the Oxfam KVHW kit is a cloning lead, which will enable one transceiver to
program another without the using a computer or software. Once one of the F30LT
transceivers has been programmed as a 'master', the cloning of others should only take a
few minutes. A small screwdriver and the cloning lead will be required.
Cloning
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Make sure both radios are switched OFF.
Remove 2 screws and the plate located on top of each portable.
Carefully connect cloning cable (OPC-444) between the radios.
Whilst pushing and holding [PTT] and [Po] on MASTER transceiver, turn on
power.
“– – – – – –" Should appear on the display screen.
Enter the 6-digit password (159357). Press [Po] if a mistake is made and reenter digits. The display will flash.
Press ENTER. "SET MODE" appears on screen.
While pushing [—], press [0]. CLONE will appear on screen. MASTER is now
prepared for cloning.
Turn on SLAVE transceiver.
Push [PTT] on MASTER, data will be transferred to SLAVE.
When displays revert to "CLONE" only indication, switch off both sets and
disconnect lead. All data will have been transferred.
Replace plates and screws to prevent dust or moisture entering transceiver.
To clone another return to step 1. Either set can be used as the master.
Note. If unable to access mode, display shows “SORRY”, cloning can only take place via
computer software.
Page C25
VHF Communications
EXTENDING THE RANGE
VHF can be a reliable form of communication as it is not dependent upon the fluctuations
of the ionosphere, however the maximum range is limited. This range could be extended
by the use of unattended automatic VHF relay stations. These relays are known as
repeaters because they receive and transmit at the same time using only one antenna.
To be really effective the repeater must be located upon a hill or high building some
distance from the base station and if particularly, well sited will greatly increase the area
served by the VHF transceivers. This is due to a 'line of sight' path existing between the
repeater and the base or hand-held at either end, even though individual stations cannot
see one another. When particularly well sited, base stations within an 80 kilometres
radius of a repeater should be able to communicate with one another.
REPEATERS
Repeaters are un-manned slave stations, which use an in-built control system usually
called the 'logic'. This logic controls the operation of the repeater, allowing only signals to
be relayed that are of intelligible quality. The repeater receiver is continually monitoring
the input frequency. If a valid signal is received the transmitter opens up a frequency
sufficiently removed from the receiver to avoid interfering with reception and
simultaneously relays the information received by the repeater receiver. Depending upon
how the logic is configured special codes are sometimes required to enable the transmit
side of a repeater to open up. These codes can take the form of sub-audible tones more
commonly known as CTCSS tones.
Preparing any transceiver for use through a repeater requires accurate information on the
transmit, receive and tone frequencies. Unless this is available, programming becomes a
hit or miss affair with the chances of success remaining poor.
Before installing a repeater it is advisable to obtain technical advice from the
Humanitarian Department. Please make a copy of the questionnaire to be found on page
C25, fill it in and send to the Logistics Team in Oxfam House. It will help in assessing the
viability or otherwise of a repeater project.
OPERATION OF A DUAL FREQUENCY REPEATER
> Freq X
<
Freq Y <
> Freq Y
>
<
A
>
Freq X <
B
Repeater
Transceiver A, transmits on frequency X, which is the repeater receive frequency. The
repeater simultaneously re-transmits A's signal on frequency Y, which is B's receive
frequency. When it is B's turn to transmit, the paths are reversed, with B transmitting on
X and A receiving on Y.
Page C26
VHF Communications
REPEATER QUESTIONNAIRE
1.
Why do you need a repeater?
2.
What size area are you hoping to cover?
3.
Describe the type of terrain to be covered. (If possible provide map)
4.
Give description of VHF and HF equipment in use at present. (Make, model,
type, number of units, antenna, age etc.)
5.
Will the repeater be in operation 24 hours every day?
6.
Is a reliable power source available? (State type of power, battery, AC mains,
generator etc.)
7.
Is it possible to site the repeater at another secure remote Location? (If yes, is
reliable power supply available)
8.
Are any tall masts or high buildings available where the antenna can be
located?
Give an estimate of antenna height and distance from repeater hardware
location.
9.
Are there any other tall buildings close to proposed repeater site?
10. Are other repeaters operating in the area? If answer is 'yes' what frequencies
do they occupy (this is important)?
11. Do you want the repeater to be used by everyone or do you require restricted
access? (e.g. Oxfam only)
12. Is the problem area in one direction only? (Could be a less expensive solution
than a repeater)
Page C27
VHF Communications
OXFAM CODE KVHB -VHF BASE STATION
Base or mobile radio kit for voice links to other VHF radios for installation in an office,
house or vehicle.
Kit Contents:
1.
Icom IC1010, 25 watt programmable mobile VHF transceiver. Complete with
fist microphone and clip, SP5 external loudspeaker, vehicle mounting bracket
with fixing screws and terminated fused power leads for 12 volt operation.
2. Kathrein No.215465 VHF base antenna, with 2" OD mast mounting clamp.
3. Thirty Metres UR67 coaxial cable terminated with PL259 and N type plugs. .
4. Twenty plastic cable ties, 15Omm long.
5. Gutter clip for vehicle antenna c/w Alien key.
6. Quarter wave vehicle antenna for mounting on gutter clip c/w 4 metre length
coaxial cable, terminated PL259 plug.
7. Five metres single core 4mm earth wire.
8. One copper earth rod and clamp.
9. Two spare fuses for power cable.
10. Copy of lcom Programming manual, software and all connecting leads.
OXFAM KVHW-VHF PORTABLE TRANSCEIVER KIT
A kit with 4 walkie-talkie units and a range of accessories.
Kit Contents:
1.
4 Icom IC-F3S 146-174 MHz 32 channel Portable VHF Transceiver with
antenna, BP196 9.6V/1050mAh battery pack and belt clip.
2. 4 IC-BP196 Spare rechargeable battery.
3. 4
BC-119 2 hour rapid battery chargers for 12 volt DC with BC-06-2 AC
adaptors fitted 3 pin 13 amp plugs.
4. 2 IC-CP1 12V Cigar lighter lead for powering BC-119 from vehicle battery.
5. 2 Gutter clips for extension antenna c/w Allen key.
6. 2 1/4 wave antenna c/w 4 metre coaxial cable and BNC plug
7. 2 IC-F3S-BNC antenna adaptor, (use with item 6).
8. 1 PC programming including software on 3.5" disk, manual, and programming
lead PC to F3S. (OPC478) and F3S-F3S clone lead (OPC474)
9. 1 Four gang, 3-pin adapter fitted with 3-pin plug.
10. 1 Sollatek AVS 13 fitted with 3 pin plug.
11. 1 Universal 3-pin to 2-pin adapter plug.
Page C28
Oxfam Communication Manual
HF
COMMUNICATION
Page D1
HF Communications
MEDIUM TO LONG RANGE COMMUNICATIONS
High frequency (HF) radio transmissions are a reliable method of communicating over
longer distances than are available on the VHF frequencies. The equipment is selfcontained and, does not rely upon telephone lines, repeaters or satellites for point-to-point
communication. Once the equipment has been installed all operating costs, unlike with
satellite or cellular phones, are virtually non-existent. HF radios can be a versatile and
powerful means of voice or data communications.
Like most other modern commercial HF transceivers, the type of transmission used for
speech is known as SSB (single side band). This type allows more channels to operate in
the same area of the HF spectrum than would be possible using older outdated methods.
With SSB the transmitter uses the airways more efficiently and also uses less power to
communicate effectively. This extra proficiency has at times, unfortunate consequences.
With many more stations able to use a similar range of frequencies, break through
between adjacent stations can become a problem. Apart from waiting until the channel is
clear or moving to another frequency there is no satisfactory solution. HF data
transmission speeds are comparable to those used by Satcoms.
All HF bands are contained in a relatively small part of the radio spectrum, but, unlike
VHF and UHF, they have unusual characteristics providing direct medium to long distance
communication not readily available using other radio systems.
RADIO FREQUENCY SPECTRUM
Commercial AM
Broadcast
Radio
Codan SSB
Shortwave
Radio
5-15mhz
MF
300 Khz
HF
3Mhz
ICOM
Base and
Handheld
Inmarsat
Satcom
165mhz
1660mhz
VHF
UHF
30Mhz
300mhz
3000Mhz
The Short Wave bands are referred to as the High Frequency (HF) bands. They occupy
frequencies between 2 and 30 MHz (Megahertz). The Medium and Long Wave broadcast
bands, occupy frequencies between 100 kHz and 2 MHz. VHF broadcast radio stations
will be found on frequencies between 88 and 108 MHz.
HF SSB radios are primarily used for long-range communications where distances of
3000 km and more are possible. Large obstructions such as buildings and mountains
have little effect on the capability of long-range communications. HF radio can cover such
large distances because of the way that the transmitted radio signal propagates.
Radio waves travel in straight lines and for long distance contacts, reliable
communication is only possible via the ionosphere. This consists of several ionised
layers that are continually combining and separating. The layers occupy a region of
between 100 and 300 kilometres above the earth’s service. The ability of these layers to
reflect radio waves back to a distant station depends upon their electron density, height
and depth. As the layers separate and combine during the day, the height and depth are
constantly changing. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun causes the density to increase.
The higher the density becomes the more efficiently the layers act as reflectors of radio
waves. A gradual increase in density begins at dawn, rising to a maximum around
midday with a gradual decline towards evening. In addition to this almost constant daily
change there is also an eleven-year sunspot maximum cycle combined with seasonal
variations.
Page D2
HF Communications
Electromagnetic radio waves are transmitted by one of three methods:
·
Direct Wave: Travel in a direct line-of-sight from transmitter to the receiver.
Capable of short-range communication with a similar range to that of VHF radios.
·
Ground Wave: As the name suggests the waves travel close to the ground for short
distances, typically around 2 to 100kms. The distance covered depends upon the
frequency used, the power transmitted, the type of antenna used, and the terrain.
Lower frequencies being favoured for this type of communication due to absorption
of the signal. The higher HF frequencies are used mainly for intercontinental
working.
·
Sky Wave: A radio signal, which, upon reaching the ionosphere, instead of being
absorbed or travelling straight into outer space, is gradually refracted (bent) until it
re-enters the atmosphere at a different point to that of entry.
With the ionosphere playing such a major part in propagation of sky radio waves, other
factors determine whether reliable communications are possible. They include time of
day, frequency used and density of the ionosphere. The highest frequency reflected back
to earth is known as the MUF (Maximum Useable Frequency). It is important to realise
that MUF varies during the day and night and also throughout the year. Stations closer to
the Equator suffer less than stations situated nearer the poles. As the distance between
stations is reduced so the ideal practical frequency also becomes lower.
DISTANCE/FREQUENCY GUIDE
Frequency
in MHz
Maximum Range in Km
Please Note: - This table should only be
used as a guide. Actual performance
will vary depending upon conditions.
Day Time
Night Time
03
05
07
09
11
13
15
17
0150
0500
1100
1800
2200
2800
3300
4000
0250
0700
1500
2000
2700
3500
4000
4800
As a general rule, during daylight hours, frequencies below 8 MHz are suitable for incountry communications. If an HF station is to be manned 24 hours a day, lower
frequencies should be selected, as it gets dark to counteract the weakening ionised
layers. As the number of daylight hour’s decrease during the year so should the working
frequency.
In practise, it is usual to provide two or three channels per network giving a frequency
spread to suit prevailing conditions. Under certain conditions, major problems can occur if
stations are situated only a few kilometres apart. In those cases it is sometimes
necessary to reduce the maximum working frequency to around 2 to 3 MHz for reliable
contacts. Difficulties can occur between a base station and mobile units when close
together, in which case a method known as NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence System) can
be deployed. This consists of fitting a horizontal antenna rod (NVIS kit (Part No 1500323) available from Codan) onto the vehicle antenna-tuning unit to direct more of the
transmitted radio waves vertically.
Page D3
HF Communications
This method can be effective under certain circumstances but is certainly not infallible
and requires the calculation of a critical frequency for its operation. A well sited VHF radio
station can often be more effective for communicating over short distances than an HF
transceiver. Calculations of the best frequencies to use for a particular path can be
accomplished in a variety of ways and though they offer a guide and are by no means fool
proof. Use propagation prediction forecasts with scepticism and care. Practical
experience and experimentation play a major role in all successful HF operation.
When applying for an official frequency from the authorities, or setting up a station for the
first time, it is very worthwhile talking to colleagues from other agencies working in the
area as to the best method, frequencies and operating times to use. Co-operation with
other groups is vital to prevent chaos on the limited number of workable frequencies
available. If it is not possible to find information from others in the region, a series of test
transmissions should be carried out to determine the optimum working frequencies.
These tests should take place at 2 hourly intervals spread over a few days to establish the
best times and or operating frequencies. A written record should be kept of all signal
strengths during the tests to determine the optimum time and frequency for reliable
communication.
Please remember many countries have strict rules regarding the use of radio frequencies.
Under certain circumstances the authorities can close down a radio network and all
equipment could be confiscated, including none radio items, if you disregard the
regulations. In the UK, for instance, no one is allowed to broadcast without a valid
licence. And that licence can be almost impossible to obtain if required for operation on
HF frequencies.
HF radio is the traditional method for medium and long-range voice and telegraphic
communications. However, today's technology offers the more sophisticated services
required for data communications by means of HF radio based networks.
A complete HF or VHF Base radio station has three separate items linked together by
cables. In order of importance they are:
·
Antenna
·
Radio
·
Power Supply
The Antenna is by far the most important part of any radio installation. Without an
efficient and effective antenna, good radio reception or transmission will be severely
limited.
The Transceiver (receiver and transmitter combined in one or more cases) must be able
to operate under different climatic conditions, have a stable frequency control, a powerful
transmitter and a sensitive receiver combined with the versatility of multi-channel
operations.
The Power Supply, mains or battery, must be rugged, dependable and capable of
supplying sufficient continuous current to the radio without overheating or discharging
prematurely. See Power section of this manual for further details and methods to be
employed.
Page D4
HF Communications
THE OXFAM HF KITS
The KHB kit consists of a Codan NGT VR programmable microphone with junction box
and base transceiver connected to a Codan C411 folded dipole antenna. Supplied in two
packs with full installation and operating manuals. The transceiver is capable of
transmitting 125 watts of power on any frequency between 1.6 and 30MHz. It also
receives between 250kHz and 30MHz, covering all short and medium broadcast bands.
With the addition of a mast (Oxfam KM kit) and a 12-volt DC power source (Oxfam KP or
KSP kit) a complete voice base station can be assembled. A mast from a local source
such as a wooden pole, a metal tube, plastic irrigation pipe or a suitable tree can be
substituted for the KM kit.
THE KHM kit contains all the necessary items to install a radio station in a vehicle.
Everything is provided in two packages. This includes the Codan NGT transceiver kit with
a Codan 9350 auto tuning mobile antenna and all necessary cables, connectors, lugs,
mounting hardware (screws, grommets and cable ties) with fuse holder and spare fuses.
Full Installation and operating manuals are also included.
THE KHD kit is for use in conjunction with the Codan NGT unit to allow data
transmissions to take place. The kit consists of a Codan 3012 modem (introduced in
2002) with the appropriate software, a fan module with installation instructions and all
connecting cables.
The addition of a dedicated computer will be required to complete
this package. The KHD kit is not designed for, and is not compatible with, the Codan
9780 mobile transceiver. It is essential that technical advice be obtained from the
Logistics Team in Oxfam House, before ordering the KHD kit, especially if required for
use with an older model Codan 8528i transceiver (Manufactured pre-June 1996) where a
retrofit kit will normally be required.
More detailed descriptions of the component parts of the kits will be found in the following
pages. Manufacturer's instruction manuals and assembly notes are provided with each
kit. They should be read carefully before operating any equipment. Customised
instructions, based upon practical experience in the field, are included in this manual
where necessary.
Page D5
HF Communications
CODAN NGT BASE STATION INSTALLATION
These notes are based on practical experience and should be used in conjunction with
the appropriate Codan Manuals included in the kits.
INSTALLATION
Apart from the antenna installation, which is covered separately in this section,
assembling the Codan NGT base station is a matter of connecting the appropriate parts
together. This operation is quite straightforward; the plugs on the connecting leads
between the transceiver, junction box, programmable microphone and power source are
different and cannot be incorrectly inserted. Unless excessive force is used! The PL259
plug already fitted on the coaxial cable supplied with the antenna connects to the S0239
flying lead socket on the rear of the transceiver. A fixing screw is also provided on the
rear of the transceiver and junction box, to allow an earth cable to be connected.
CONNECTING THE NGT TRANSCEIVER
LOCATION
The main transceiver body must be located where air can circulate unimpeded around the
case. If necessary it can be placed on a shelf underneath the operating desk. The top of
the radio should be kept clear of papers etc to allow the fan (where fitted) to operate
correctly. Space should be found at the operating position to accommodate a logbook so
that messages can be written down. Before finally deciding upon the location of the parts
make sure the connecting, antenna and power cables are long enough to reach the
equipment without straining. Any surplus cable should be coiled up and fastened to walls,
not left lying around the floor. The location of the microphone and loudspeaker should be
easy to reach and within earshot of a responsible person at all times.
EARTH ROD
Wherever possible, the use of a separate earth is recommended. This should ideally
consist of a 4ft spike connected by a thick wire to the earth screw on the case of the
transceiver. The spike should for preference, be copper clad steel, but any metal rod will
do provided it is driven well into the ground. The wire connecting the radio to the earth
rod should be as short and as thick as possible. Under no circumstances should the earth
wire be connected via the mains socket on the wall as this can lead to noisy reception of
weak signals and poor transmission. A suitable copper plated steel earth spike and cable
are included in the VHF KVHB kit.
Page D6
HF Communications
MICROPHONE
Connect the programmable microphone lead to the appropriate socket on the junction
box. Take care to locate the keyway correctly. Do not over tighten the screwed ring and,
if possible, screw the junction box and microphone holder in a convenient place so that
the cord is not stretched whilst being used. Reports of poor or distorted voice reception
from other stations do not necessarily indicate a faulty microphone. Before changing a
suspect microphone, check the antenna for breakage and, or, twisting of the wire
elements or the coaxial cable for damaged or faulty connections.
HF ANTENNA
Efficient radio antennas are the most important item of any HF radio set-up. They must
radiate the transmitted signal with the minimum of loss. They must also be capable of
receiving weak signals from other transmitters. Unsatisfactory antenna choice, wrong
orientation and slipshod installation are the main causes of complaint with inferior
transceiver performance. No matter how sensitive the radio, a poorly erected antenna
system will always produce unsatisfactory results.
Antennas come in a wide variety of types. From the single long piece of wire, to the large
sophisticated rotating directional Log-Periodic antennas, designed especially for intercontinental communications. Each has its own application. To cover as wide a variety of
situations as possible, and as part of the Oxfam KHB base station kit, a Codan C411/E
terminated folded dipole antenna has been chosen for base station use. It covers a range
of frequencies without the need for tuning, provided it is erected as per the instructions
provided. At present the Codan 9350 mobile automatic tuning whip antenna is being fitted
to vehicles.
POWER SUPPLY
Connect the supplied power cable to 12-volt DC only. Red to Positive (+) and Black to
Negative (-). NEVER connect any Oxfam radio equipment directly to 240-volt AC or a 24volt DC outlet. Fuses must always be included in the Positive power line to all equipment.
If possible, they should be positioned as closely as possible to the battery in all
installations so protecting both cable and radio. It is advisable to connect the supply
leads from the transceiver directly to the battery, use the strong lugs provided or crocodile
clips.
Where no mains or generator supply is available the power source should consist of an
Oxfam KSP solar panel kit connected to a 12volt battery. If a public mains supply or a
generator are available, and reliable for some of the working day, an Oxfam KP kit can be
substituted. Unreliable and fluctuating AC power supplies are the cause of many
breakdowns to all types of electrical apparatus, and in particular, HF communications
equipment. Ensure that the SOLLATEK AVS13 supplied with the KP kit is in circuit at all
times. This will prevent damage to the 12-volt power supply in the event of a sudden
surge of voltage from the generator or mains. Please return all faulty AVS units to
Logistics Team, Humanitarian Dept in Oxford.
SOLAR PANEL
It is sometimes difficult to obtain a suitable electrical power supply in remote regions. The
Oxfam KSP solar panel kit used in conjunction with a 12-volt DC low voltage 100Ah
battery, offers a good solution to the problem of powering a base station where generator
or mains electricity is unobtainable or intermittent. Full installation and maintenance
instructions are included with the KSP kit.
Page D7
HF Communications
LOUDSPEAKER
A miniature jack socket is provided on the junction box of the NGT kit to plug in the
loudspeaker. If remote listening is required the speaker lead can be extended by up to
100 metres without loss of audio. The SPA loudspeaker provided in the KVHB kit can
also be utilised for this purpose.
C411 BASE ANTENNAS
The C411 series of antennas are broadband antennas designed for fixed station use
where multi-channel operation is required. They can be installed in either a horizontal
arrangement between two masts or in an inverted V configuration on a single mast. The
inverted V has important mechanical and visual advantages since the single mast also
carries the weight of the centre and feeder. When installed, the apex angle of the wires
are not critical but should be greater than 90 degrees for a satisfactory match to be
achieved. Electrically the inverted V has benefits where there are a mixture of base
stations and mobiles in the network. For maximum efficiency, the centre of the antenna
should be at least 8 metres above ground with tie off points around 29 metres apart. Full
details are supplied with the kit.
Included in the KHB kit, is a completely assembled C411/E antenna and 30 metres of
suitable terminated RG58 coaxial cable with pulleys, shackles and a rope halyard. As
supplied, the C411/E covers a frequency range of 4 to 15MHz. The antenna should be
positioned so that it is broadside on to the major direction of communication. If operation
is required outside the design frequencies a different model will have to be supplied. Help
in choosing the correct antenna is available from the Logistics Team, Humanitarian Dept.
Page D8
HF Communications
C411 ANTENNA INSTALLATION
Two techniques are available to erect an inverted "V". The first method involves
fastening the centre bar of the antenna directly onto the mast, and the second method
requiring a pulley with rope halyard to be fixed to the mast. Which option to use must be
determined on site as circumstances can vary as regards space and difficulty of access.
Codan recommends the second method because it is much easier to drop the antenna for
maintenance purposes. Full instructions for assembly and installation using this method
are given in the C411/E kit. If this second option is used it is essential that the top section
of the mast is insulated to stop bare wires shorting out on any metal. Plastic sleeving slid
over and fastened to the top section, insulating tape covering the first few feet of the mast
or a light angled extension piece taking the halyard and pulley away from the mast can be
employed. The first method, though not so convenient for overhaul purposes, has the
advantage of being secure and less likely to be damaged by bad weather. Servicing the
antenna however will entail dropping and re-erecting the mast, which, in some
circumstances may prove inconvenient or time consuming. A correctly installed wire
antenna should remain serviceable for many years before maintenance is required.
Proceed as follows if the first method is taken.
Utilising the two holes situated at each end of the metal bar in the middle of the Codan
antenna, drill a hole about 6 inches down from the top of the mast. A nut and bolt is then
used to fasten the centre metal bar of the antenna to the mast. The white box fastened to
the bar must be positioned towards the bottom of mast. If a VHF antenna is to be fitted
room must be found for the bracket above the HF antenna. For the lower hole, use a
small drill and a self-tapping screw. This will ensure that the antenna centre is rigidly
fastened to the mast and will not swing sideways. The wires can then be uncoiled from
one side at a time. It is essential that the following method be used to prevent the wires
from tangling together. Place the two coils of one half of the antenna over each end of
the respective outer spreader so that when the plastic ties are released the wire can
unravel on the spreader. Insert a long screwdriver, piece of dowel or similar object in
each end of the spreader and carefully release the ties making sure the wire does not
come off the spreader. Holding on to the screwdrivers walk slowly backwards at the same
time ensuring the wire starts to be released from its respective coil. The outer white
plastic spreader should rotate, with the wire uncoiling evenly without kinking or tending to
recoil. The wire can be further straightened and a check made for kinking prior to raising
the mast.
FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE PROCEDURE DETAILED ABOVE WILL RESULT IN THE
WIRE BECOMING TWISTED AND DIFFICULT TO MANAGE.
Page D9
HF Communications
Connect one end of the coaxial feeder to the socket on the white plastic box in the centre
of the antenna, wrapping tape around the joint to prevent moisture entering. If selfamalgamating tape is not available ordinary electrical tape will do the job but will not last
as long. As the mast is assembled and extended, the coax cable should be fastened to
the mast with tape or nylon ties. When the installation procedure detailed on page D9 is
employed then the antenna wires can act as two of the mast guys once the mast is at full
height. If possible, position the antenna wire fixing points so that, when raised, the
antenna itself is perpendicular (at 90 degrees) to the desired direction of transmission.
Once the antenna has been fixed and the wires extended, hold the mast upright, push
each section up in turn, starting with the smallest diameter, until each section has
reached its stop. At this point the locking pegs on each section must be manoeuvred into
position before dealing with the next mast section. Assistance will be needed with the guy
ropes so that the mast can be held and kept upright whilst being extended. It is difficult to
erect the mast and antenna single-handedly, extra people make the task much easier.
Do not forget to use the base plate/point to anchor the bottom of the mast.
The most critical operation in positioning the antenna wires is the location of the rope
halyard at each end of the antenna wire. A small length of polypropylene rope is
connected to the plastic tube located at each end of the antenna wire. It is to this rope
that the halyard is fastened using a knot that can be easily adjusted. Many of the
problems associated with Codan radios can be traced to the antenna wires twisting and
shorting out. It is essential to keep the parallel wires straight and apart at all times. The
correct position of the halyard to rope connection, located at each end of the antenna, will
prevent the wires of the antenna from twisting and shorting out. See diagram below for
more details.
Base Antenna Installation
Maximum signal, both transmit and receive is obtained broad side on to the antenna. If
possible, do not erect antennas adjacent to or running over electricity cables, telephone
wires or where the wires could short on tin roofs. In some circumstances, this could be
dangerous, especially during high winds. When using trees as supports leave a little
slack in the support wires to allow for movement of the tree during storms or make sure
the tree and branches are rigid. It may be advisable to fashion two extra spreaders out of
plastic piping or bamboo sticks to help stop the folded dipole from twisting and shorting.
Under no circumstances should transmissions take place unless the antenna is in good
condition. Use can be made of plastic water pipes as antenna supports if required. Even
though the antenna height may be lower than recommended, for short-range
communication, performance will be perfectly adequate.
Page D10
HF Communications
Page D11
HF Communications
THE CODAN NGT HF BASE AND MOBILE STATIONS
Codan NGT VR transceivers are recently introduced (2001) New Generation
Transceivers replacing the 9360 and 9780 models used extensively by aid agencies
throughout the world. The NGT transceiver can be used as either a base or a mobile
station. Only the antenna types vary. They are fully synthesised transceivers capable of
communicating in a variety of modes and have many advanced features. (A synthesised
transceiver is just a transmitter and receiver combined together in one box where all the
frequencies are generated from a single crystal source). Once installed and programmed,
operation consists of merely pressing the appropriate buttons on the microphone. The
VR version of the NGT transceiver (normally supplied) can be programmed with up to 15
channels. The SR version can be programmed with up to 400 channels. Selective calling,
PIN numbers for security and channel scanning are amongst some of the options
available.
The transceiver is
designed to transmit on a
frequency range of 1.6 to 30 MHz.
The receive frequency range
covers 0.25 MHz to 30 MHz. A
full readout of the selected
channel together with transmit
and receive frequencies can be
shown on the liquid crystal display
screen of the microphone. The
screen is also used to convey
messages
and programming
operations of the transceiver to
the operator.
In addition to
programming the set via the
keypad most parameters can also
be pre-programmed using Codan
NSP software.
Care should be taken when any
of the broadcast frequencies such
as BBC World Service are
programmed into the set. The
Transmit inhibit facility should
always be enabled to prevent
accidental
interference
to
commercial radio channels.
Advanced features of the Codan
include Scanning and Selcall:
·
Scanning allows channels/modes to be monitored in sequence, in case a call
occurs on any one of a number of channels.
·
Selcall or selective calling is used when an individual station needs to be
contacted without other stations on the channel being disturbed.
·
Programming frequencies and other parameters using a computer. Codan NSP
Program available on three floppy disks or one CD disk.
Page D12
HF Communications
THE NGT VR TRANSCEIVER
All programming and operational controls are available on the handset.
RECEIVING
Press the On/Off key (2) once. If no
password is to be entered, then the
transceiver will switch on, and, when
programmed,
display
the
previously
selected channel. If a password needs to
be entered, then type in the required
password via the numerical key on the
microphone handset. Press the Tick key
(6). If the password is correct, the radio will
switch on to the channel it occupied when
last switched off. Adjust the volume of the
loudspeaker using the Volume key. (22).
Move through the screen display using the
scroll key (5) to select the appropriate
channel.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
Microphone.
To speak to other stations
Power.
To switch transceiver power On or Off.
Press to Talk.
Used to change from receive to transmit during voice calls.
Mute.
Switches receive sound on or off.
Scroll Key.
Scroll through items in a list or text over a line.
Tick Key. Navigate down through lists, edit settings, say 'yes' to prompts.
1QZ
Enter 1, Q and Z.
4GHI
Enter 4, G, H and I.
7PRS
Enter 7, P, R, and S.
Asterisk key
Enter punctuation marks. . , @ ? ! & # $ * ( ) - + / @ …
Zero space key
Enter 0 and space.
Programming jack For connecting cable to use with NSP software.
Hash key displays Calls In, Calls Out logs. Toggle upper/lower case etc.
8TUV
Enter 8, T, U, and V.
9WXY
Enter 9, W, X and Y.
5JKL
Enter 5, J, K, and L.
6MNO
Enter 6, M, N and O.
2ABC
Enter 2, A, B and C.
3DEF
Enter 3, D, E and F.
Cross key.
Navigate through lists, cancel changes, answer 'no' etc.
Find key
Display Find prompt and open List Manager.
Volume
Increase or decrease volume from speaker.
Hangup/Scan
End a call or toggle scanning on and off.
Call key
Starts a call
Handset screen
View status of transceiver.
Emergency key
Begin an emergency call.
Page D13
HF Communications
TRANSMITTING
Sending or transmitting a message should only be commenced when the frequency is
clear. Listen first before pressing the PTT (3) on the microphone to initiate the transmit
facility. If using the scan feature, stop the scan by pressing and releasing the PTT (3) or
Scan key (23) once. Select the required channel with the scroll key (5), check for activity
on the frequency, then press PTT and speak into the microphone with a normal voice.
When a range of frequencies is being used, such as when the receiving station is
scanning different channels, it is difficult to known the best frequency to call. A procedure
known as beacon call can be used to determine the best channel. This checks each
channel in the scan program in turn, until the best frequency to use is found. See next
page for details.
SCANNING
Scanning allows the transceiver to detect incoming calls on more than one channel. A
maximum of 15 channels can be set-up in a Network List or Scan Table. A number of
Network Lists can be created, however, only one scan table will be active at any one time.
Be aware that the more channels being scanned in a list, the slower will be the response
to a call. In some cases scanning is impractical, communication would be more effective
using just one designated frequency. Scanning should be used in conjunction with Selcall
mute otherwise the receiver will stop, listen and relay traffic on a channel regardless of the
recipient.
To Start scanning: Press the Scan keypad (23) and scanning will start.
To Pause scanning on the current channel/mode. Press the Scan key (23) or the tick
key (6). To pause scanning and scroll to another channel. Press the Scroll key (5). If
you do not press a key within 30 seconds, scanning will resume.
To Stop scanning press Scan keypad (23).
SELCALL
All Oxfam HF transceivers are configured to transmit and receive selcalls. A selcall is a
unique digital call transmitted by one transceiver to call another transceiver. Each
transceiver can be assigned a different ID to which it, and only it, will respond.
The call is initiated by selecting a particular selcall number using the Address facility in
the Main menu (20). Scroll (5) through the Address list to the entry you wish to call.
Pressing the call key (24) will transmit a unique signal that will be received and decoded
by the transceiver with that Selcall. This incoming call will initiate a procedure where the
radio rings three times, similar to a telephone, to alert the operator. If not answered it will
continue to bleep every few seconds and display the calling stations ID. Answering an
incoming Selcall is initiated by pressing the PTT twice, once to cancel the ring/bleep from
the loudspeaker and once again to start transmitting.
Similar procedures are required if a call is being answered by a transceiver that had been
scanning. The display will show details of the channel and Selcall ID of the calling station.
To respond to a call, press the PTT once to stop scan (if any). Make sure you are on the
correct channel by looking at the display. If not correct, change channel until display
indicates Selcall of calling station.
Page D14
HF Communications
Details of calls received are stored in the Calls In Log. Selecting the Find keypad (21)
then scrolling (5) to identify the station, pressing the Call pad will initiate a return call to
the station, which called previously.
Page D15
HF Communications
BEACON CALL.
When using the scan channel facility the operator should initiate a channel test call
(similar to a selcall) to find the best available frequency to transmit on. When a channel
call is sent to a particular station, the receiving station acknowledges the call by sending a
revertive signal consisting of four long beeps. The operator must then compare the
quality and strength of these signals by ear to decide which is the best channel to use.
To start a Channel test call, first stop the receiver scanning by pushing the Scan key (23).
Select the station you wish to call using the Address list. Scroll to the channel you wish to
check then hold the call key (24). Listen for a revertive signal from the other station. The
volume and clarity of the signal received indicates the quality of the channel. To test
another channel, scroll to a channel then hold the Call key (24) again. Continue checking
all scan channels until sure of the strongest to use. Once the strongest channel has been
found, press the Call key (24) to continue the call.
PROGRAMMING THE NGT
Although the NGT transceiver has up to 15 programmable channels, normally only a few
of these will need to be programmed. Please be aware that, if the scan facility is to be
made use of, no more than 10 channels should be programmed in any one Network list or
scan table at any one time. In cases where only one channel has been authorised for use
then the scanning facility should not be used.
Comprehensive instructions are available in the CODAN Users Guide and Reference
Manual handbooks supplied with every radio. Installation, programming and operating
procedures are all covered step by step in great detail. It is suggested that they should be
referred to when any problems occur.
The Codan Quick Start Reference Card, supplied by Codan with all new NGT
transceivers, should be used when setting up the Transceiver for the first time. A copy
the Quick Start instructions can to be found on the next few pages.
Page D16
HF Communications
PROGRAMMING the NGT using Quick Start.
Quick start enables you to quickly and easily program your transceiver for operation.
With Quick Start you can scan up to 15 channels and allocate one self-address.
If your transceiver has already been programmed with a profile that contains a non-default
network name or has more than one self-address, Quick Start will not be available. If this
is the case, please refer to the NGT Transceiver User Guide and the NGT Reference
manual for instructions on how to program the transceiver.
Getting Started.
Switching on the transceiver.
Press Power (2)
The transceiver will go through a brief initialisation period.
Opening and closing Quick Start.
To open Quick Start Hold Find key (21)
To close Quick Start
Press or Hold Cross Key (20)
Adding/Editing a channel.
Hold Find key (21) to open Quick Start.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the Add/Edit channel entry. Press Tick key (6) to select it.
Do one of the following.
·
To use the name displayed, press Tick key (6)
·
To enter a new name, start typing. When you have entered the name, press
Tick key (6).
·
To edit the name displayed, press Cross key (20).
·
To select an existing channel, use the Scroll key (5), then press Tick key (6)
Note. Use Cross key (20) to backspace over text. Press Hash key (13) to change
between upper and lower case letters and numbers.
·
·
·
Enter the receive frequency in Kilohertz, then press Tick key (6)
Enter the transmit frequency in kilohertz, then press Tick key (6)
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to mode combination you want to use (USB), then
press Tick key (6) to select.
The transceiver will return to Quick Start.
·
·
If you want to add more channels to your transceiver, scroll through the
Add/Edit channel entry and repeat the process.
Close Quick Start when finished.
Note. If you want to make or receive calls on this new channel. You must add it to your
scan list.
Page D17
HF Communications
Setting up a scan list
·
·
·
·
·
Hold Find key (21) to open Quick Start
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the Set scan list entry, then press Tick key (6) to
select it. The first channel of the radio will be displayed.
If you want to add this channel to your list then press Tick key (6) Press Cross
key (20) if channel is not wanted in scan list.
When all scan channels have been added, hold Tick key (6) to return to Quick
Start.
Press or hold Cross key (20) to close Quick Start.
Note. Each time you enter the Set scan list entry; the resulting scan list will overwrite
the existing scan list.
Setting the time and date
·
·
Note.
·
Note.
·
Note.
·
Hold Find key (21) to open Quick Start.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the Set time/date entry, then press Tick key (6) to
select.
The display will appear with a line under the day of the month.
Use Scroll key (5) to change the current setting to the correct value, then press
Tick key (6).
The line will appear under the month.
Repeat previous step until you have made all of the changes to the time and
date.
When all the changes have been made, the transceiver will return to Quick Start.
Close Quick Start, if required.
Setting the Station Address
·
·
·
·
Hold Find key (21) to open Quick Start.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the Set my address entry, then press Tick key (6)
to select.
Enter your station address (maximum of six digits), then press Tick key (6)
Close Quick Start if required.
Adding/Editing an entry in the Address List or Call book.
·
·
·
Hold Find key (21) to open Quick Start.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the Address/CallBk entry, then press Tick key (6)
to select.
Enter the name of the station that you want to call, or use scroll key (5) to select
an existing entry, then press Tick key (6).
Note, Use Cross key (20) to backspace over text, Press Hash key (13) to change between
upper and lower case letters and figures.
Page D18
HF Communications
·
·
Note.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the type of call that you want to make, enter the
station address that you want to call, then press Tick key (6).
If you selected a Message call or No call type, enter the message, then press
Tick key (6).
If you do not want to select a message, press tick key (6).
·
·
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the call system that you want to use to make the
call, then press Tick key (6) to select it.
If you selected Phone call or No call type, select <blank> for the phone link
that you want to use, then press Tick key (6) to select it.
Note. When all the changes have been made to the call address, the transceiver will
return to Quick Start.
·
If you want to add more call addresses to the Address List or Call book, scroll to
the Address/CallBk entry and repeat the process.
Deleting entries
·
·
Note.
·
·
·
Hold Find key to open Quick Start.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the Delete…entry, then press Tick key (6) to
select
You can delete entries from the Address/CallBk, Channel or Phone Link Lists.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the list from which you want to delete, then press
Tick key (6) to select it.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the item you want to delete, then press Tick key
(6) to select it.
Use Scroll key (5) to scroll to the item you want to delete, then press Tick key
(6) to delete it.
Note. If you delete a channel from the Channel List, it will be automatically deleted from
the scan list.
·
Close Quick Start, if required by pressing or holding Cross key (20).
Page D19
HF Communications
THE OXFAM KHM KIT
Based upon practical experience, the KHM kit should be used in conjunction with the
NGT transceiver handbooks supplied with the kit.
THE KHM KIT
Vehicles supplied through Oxfam House can be pre-fitted with Codan NGT radios before
despatch. This is the recommended option as a certain amount of technical skill and
tools are required to successfully install a mobile radio from scratch. Fabricating and
welding brackets, drilling holes in bulkheads and routing and clipping wiring, can,
depending upon the type of vehicle, take from a half up to a full day to completely install
and test an HF radio installation. Where all the work has been done by the dealer
beforehand this becomes just a reasonable task, taking a couple of hours or so.
CONNECTING THE KHM KIT
OXFAM KHM INSTALLATION NOTES
Full installation instructions are given in the Fixed and Mobile Station Installation
handbook provided with the NGT kit. The following notes should be read in conjunction
with these instructions.
When selecting the position of individual units (Transceiver, Junction box, Microphone
and Loudspeaker) check that they do not interfere with the normal operation of the vehicle
by obstructing the gear change, air outlets, switch operations etc. If possible, in a noisy
vehicle, the loudspeaker should be fastened on the rear wall of the cab at head height. .
Do not allow plastic bags or other rubbish to cover the transceiver body. The heat-sink
fins on the case must be clear to allow for free air circulation at all times.
The junction box should be mounted in a position convenient for both loudspeaker and
microphone cables. Allow sufficient slack on the microphone cable when in use so as not
to strain the connections. The microphone and loudspeaker should be mounted where
they will be shielded from the sun when not in use.
Page D20
HF Communications
Do NOT fit the battery fuse until all items, including antenna cables, have been installed
and connected.
Install the fuse holder as close to the positive terminal of the battery as possible. Use
self-tapping screws to fix it to the bodywork. The red (positive through the fuse holder)
and black (negative) cable MUST be fastened directly to the battery terminals. All
terminals and cable connections should preferably be tinned and soldered before
connecting to fuse holder and battery. Excess cable should be cut off and discarded.
When drilling holes make sure there are no concealed pipes or wires that can be
damaged by the drill bit. Check first behind the metal you are drilling through. Care
should also be taken when inserting self-tapping screws. The threads are sharp and can
easily pierce or fray electrical wiring.
Use plenty of cable ties to secure cables, especially where they run under the vehicle.
Keep cable runs away from hot engine components and exhaust pipes. Make sure that
cables cannot get damaged. Tie them onto the top of chassis members.
CODAN 9350 MOBILE ANTENNA
The most important item in any mobile or base station installation is the antenna. Mainly
due to the short length of the flexible whip, the overall efficiency of ALL mobile antennas
is extremely poor. Manufacturers do not usually publish figures comparing HF mobile with
base station wire antennas but at HF frequencies the efficiency of a whip antenna is
usually quite low, typically in the region of 1 or 2%. The Codan 9350 is better at radiating
than most. It is for this reason that it is essential to pay particular attention to the
installation and maintenance of an HF mobile antenna.
Normal location for the antenna is at the front of the vehicle. This should be mounted as
high as possible without obstructing the drivers view, bearing in mind the type of terrain
the vehicle is likely to travel through. Because of the importance attached to the
installation, comprehensive instructions are given in this manual and these should be
referred to if any problems are encountered.
Unlike the C411 folded dipole base antenna, which is fed in the centre making it into a
balanced antenna, the Codan 9350 mobile whip is fed at one end and so becomes
inherently unbalanced. In this case the vehicle body and chassis have to play a major
role in the operating efficiency of a mobile radio system. Even the position of the antenna
on a vehicle has an important bearing upon its radiation pattern and efficiency. If, for
instance, the antenna is located in the clear, at the front, the signal will be strongest along
the length of the vehicle.
The Codan 9350 Automatic Tuning Mobile Antenna is ideal for use in an emergency
situation where the local working frequencies are unknown before arrival in the area.
Inter-agency communication and co-operation with frequency allocation often play a vital
role in the success of a project.
When the channel or frequency of the radio is changed and the tune button pressed, the
automatic antenna is instructed to find the correct tuning point for that particular
frequency. Changing to a different channel or frequency will require another tune-up. If
the tuning proves unsuccessful, a tune fail process is activated and the transmitter will be
inhibited, preventing damage to the transistor output stage.
Page D21
HF Communications
CODAN 9350 MOBILE ANTENNA INSTALLATION
It is important that the antenna is well bonded to the vehicle chassis so as to provide an
acceptable earth plane. In difficult cases, this may involve using earth braid or thick wire
to connect various sections of the vehicle (i.e. bonnet, chassis, engine etc.) into a low
impedance earth.
Occasionally on vehicles, such as some models of Land Rovers and Toyota Land
Cruisers, the earth characteristics are such that an internal link in the antenna base may
have to be moved in order that reliable and positive tuning is achieved. It is preferable
that a skilled technician is employed for this task as it involves partly stripping the antenna
base then unsoldering and re-soldering a link.
Even different examples of the same model vehicle can exhibit dissimilar earth
characteristics each requiring a slightly different solution. In difficult cases, technical
advice (available from the Logistics Team, Humanitarian Dept) should be sought.
The antenna must be mounted on a strong metal bracket more than 8 mm thick, and
drilled with a 16 mm hole for the 5/8 mounting nut. The bracket should be positioned so
that at least the top 300 mm of the base-loading coil is well clear of the vehicle metal
bodywork. This will improve antenna tuning and give the maximum possible radiation
efficiency to the whip. Sufficient clearances should be allowed when fixing, so that when
the antenna is fitted to the bracket, flexing will not damage the vehicle.
The bracket (and antenna) must have a good earth connection to the vehicle chassis. A
bad earth at this point will result in poor and possibly intermittent tuning and radiation
performance.
All Codan antennas are waterproof and have been tested for leaks. To prevent moisture
entering by way of the connectors, amalgamating tape is used to seal the joints. A small
quantity of this tape is included as part of the antenna kit. The tape has a thin backing,
which is discarded as the amalgamating material is stretched around the connectors. It
should be stretched by about 50 per cent overlapping it-self as it is wound around the
plugs, finally stretching until it breaks. Once cured it forms a rubbery self-fusing
waterproof joint. This should be done after the complete mobile installation has been
finished and tested. If amalgamating tape is not available then ordinary electrical
insulating tape will do the job well enough but will not last as long.
When removing the antenna for service make sure the cable ends are protected from rain
or dirt by covering with tape or a plastic bag before tucking them away behind the radiator
grill.
Complete detailed instructions for assembling the Codan 9350 antenna will be found in
the kit. Installation is relatively straightforward, but the following points should be
observed.
Make sure that the connecting cables are not routed near to hot items such as the
exhaust pipe or engine block. When running cables underneath vehicles use plenty of
nylon ties and position the cables so that they are on top of chassis members and not
liable to be damaged when the vehicle goes "off-road". Try to avoid routing cables
through or around any pieces of metal where a sharp edge would result in damage.
Take care not to fasten onto, or trap the cable under, items which turn, move or slide, e.g.
steering columns, brake pedals, seat runners etc.
Page D22
HF Communications
MOBILE ANTENNA NOTES & FAULT RECTIFICATION
Codan NGT transceivers and 9350 antennas are rugged and reliable units.
The manufacturers now give a three-year warranty on these products. They would not do
so unless they were sure of the reliability.
Over ninety per cent of the faults occurring in the field relate to inferior, intermittent or
non-existent tuning of the antenna. The cause is almost invariably due to poor installation
or to a change in the original circumstances. When positioning a Codan 9350 antenna, to
ensure successful and consistent results, it is absolutely essential that the following points
be observed.
The antenna should be mounted so that as much as possible of the top of the thick black
tube is clear from the metalwork of the vehicle whilst having regard to the safety aspect.
This will normally mean mounting the antenna onto a prefabricated bracket.
Brackets holding the antenna must be solidly constructed and rigidly bolted or welded to
the chassis of the vehicle. Welding to the bull bar or bumper (fender) is NO
GUARANTEE that a good earth connection is made to the chassis. Modern bull bars and
bumpers are covered with a coat of plastic or paint, this acts as a good insulator, and
when fastened to the chassis need not necessarily make a good earth.
Running an earth braid from the bottom of the antenna to the body of the vehicle is not
the complete answer. Without a braid connected there should still be a good earth to
chassis from the bottom of the antenna. The whole area surrounding bumper and bull bar
bolt holes (on both sides of the vehicle) should be cleaned down to the bare metal so that
a good contact occurs.
The place where the antenna sits on the bracket should also be cleaned down to the bare
metal on both sides before fitting. Once fitted the nut should be well tightened. Do not
forget the washers, they should go underneath the nut, plain washer first.
Difficult cases, where tuning is intermittent or is taking a long time to accomplish, can be
improved by adding extra earth straps across bonnet hinges and engine mountings to
create a larger earth plane.
When an old installation starts to give trouble, look out for loose brackets or antenna
mountings, followed by checking for a good earth and then examination of the cables for
any signs of fraying. To test for a good earth you will need a multi-meter on the Ohms x 1
range. Remove all plugs and disconnect any earth braid to isolate the antenna and
bracket. Connect one lead of the multi-meter to the bottom of the antenna above the
rubber shock mounting. The other lead should touch the vehicle bodywork near to the
radiator (NOT the chassis). Full-scale deflection of the meter needle will indicate a good
electrical earth. This is not the same as a RF earth and should not be relied upon. Extra
earth straps may be required where tuning is still troublesome.
From time to time, as part of the routine maintenance, the mobile whip earth straps,
brackets and fixing bolts should be checked and fully tightened using new bolts where
necessary. Rusty joints should be cleaned down to the bare metal. Besides contributing
to poor antenna tuning, loose rusty joints are a potential source of radio interference.
Only give a coat of paint after re-assembly.
Page D23
HF Communications
THE 9360 and 9780 TRANSCEIVERS
The 9360 and 9780 transceivers are two versions of the same basic unit. The controls,
operating and programming parameters are similar. Though now superseded by the NGT
series of Codan transceivers the following notes will apply to both the 9360 and 9780
transceivers.
THE 9360/9780 TRANSCEIVERS
EXTENDED CONTROL HEAD FRONT PANEL
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
On/Off. Button switches the transceiver on or off.
Display. Shows information about the current operation of the transceiver.
Mode. Changes operating mode of the transceiver.
Select. Rotary knob changes channels.
F2. Function button depends upon transceiver’s operating mode.
Volume. Adjusts the transceiver’s audio volume.
Tune. Tunes mobile auto-antenna.
Voice Mute. Removes background noise when no audio signal.
Selcall Mute. Mutes audio, until selective call received.
Scan. Starts channel or band scan. Indicator on during scan mode.
Emergency Call. Sends an emergency selcall.
Microphone Socket. Accepts microphone plug.
USB / LSB. Selects upper or lower side-band.
F1. Function button depends upon transceiver’s operating mode.
RECEIVING
Press the On/Off keypad (1) once. If no Pin is to be entered, then the transceiver will
switch on and display the previously selected channel. When a PIN needs to be entered,
then type in the required PIN number via the numerical keypads on the microphone
handset. Press the Enter/R’call (F2) keypad. If the Pin is correct, the radio will switch on
to the channel it occupied when last switched off. Adjust the volume of the loudspeaker
using the Volume dial. (6). Select the appropriate channel. (4)
Page D24
HF Communications
TRANSMITTING
Sending or transmitting a message should only be started where the frequency is clear.
Listen first before pressing the PTT lever on the microphone to initiate the transmit facility.
If using the scan feature, first stop the scan by pressing the PTT or Scan keypad once.
Select the required channel, check for activity on the frequency, then press PTT and
speak into the microphone with a normal voice.
When a range of frequencies is being used, such as when the receiving station is
scanning different channels, it is difficult to known the best frequency to call. A procedure
known as beacon call can be used to determine the best channel. This checks each
channel in the scan program in turn, until the best frequency to use is found. See next
page for details.
SCANNING
Scanning allows the transceiver to detect incoming calls on more than one channel. A
maximum of 10 channels can be set-up in a Scan Table. Up to 3 Scan Tables can be
created. One scan table will be active at any one time. Please be aware that the more
channels being scanned the slower will be the response to a call. In some cases
scanning is impractical and communication would be more effective using just one
designated frequency.
Start scanning: Press the Scan keypad (10) and the display will show the currently active
scan table. Select the scan table required.
Press the Scan keypad (10) again to start the scan process and the designated channels
will be scanned-in sequence.
Stop scanning: Press the PTT button on the microphone ONCE to stop scan, then once
again to start speaking or, Press the Scan keypad once.
SELCALL
All Oxfam HF transceivers are configured to transmit and receive selcalls. A selcall is a
unique digital call transmitted by one transceiver to call another transceiver. Each
transceiver is assigned a different ID to which it, and only it, will respond.
The call is initiated by selecting a particular selcall number using the microphone keypad.
Pressing the call button will transmit this unique signal that will be received and decoded
by the transceiver with that selcall. This incoming call will initiate a procedure where the
radio rings three times, similar to a telephone, to alert the operator. If not answered it will
continue to bleep every few seconds and display the calling stations ID.
Answering an incoming selcall is initiated by pressing the PTT twice, once to cancel the
ring/bleep from the loudspeaker and once again to start transmitting.
Similar procedures are required if a call is being answered by a transceiver that had been
scanning. The display will show details of the channel and selcall ID of the calling station.
To respond to a call, press the PTT once to stop scan. Make sure you are on the correct
channel by looking at the display. If not correct, change channel until display indicates
Selcall of calling station. Press PTT to start transmission.
More than one station calling, the calls will be stacked in sequence. Pressing the Call
pad will display each caller in turn. Press F1 keypad to initiate a call to the station called.
Page D25
HF Communications
BEACON CALL.
When using the scan channel facility the operator should initiate a beacon call (similar to
a selcall) to find the best available channel to transmit on. When a beacon call is sent to
a particular station, the receiving station acknowledges the call by sending a revertive
signal consisting of four long beeps. The operator must then compare the quality and
strength of these signals by ear to decide which is the best channel to use.
To start a beacon call, first stop the receiver scanning by pushing the PTT on the
microphone. Check the channel for activity, wait until clear of voice or data traffic. Press
B’con keypad on the microphone. Enter selcall of station being called using the numeral
keys on the microphone handset. Press Call or F1 to send a call. After the call has
finished, and if the station required is listening on the frequency it will send a revertive
call.
This consists of four long beeps and a mental note should be made of the strength of the
signal. Move to another scan channel and send another beacon call. Compare the signal
strength of the signal received with that previously heard. Continue checking all scan
channels until sure of the strongest to use. Once the strongest channel has been found,
use this as the channel to connect with the chosen station by sending a Selcall as
previously described.
Page D26
HF Communications
PROGRAMMING THE 9360/9780
The Codan 9780 transceiver can store up to 15 channels. All channels can be
programmed and changed from the front panel of the transceiver. Various inhibit options
are available and are explained in the Codan operators manual.
Comprehensive instructions are available in the CODAN 9360 / 9780 Users Guide and
Reference handbooks. Installation, programming and operating procedures are all
covered step by step in great detail. Copies of the manuals are provided with each
9780/9360 transceiver supplied. It is suggested that they should be referred to when any
problems occur. The following should also help as a reminder of some of the
programming steps available.
PROGRAMMING A TRANSMIT/RECEIVE CHANNEL
To configure a channel with transmit and receive frequencies.
Use Microphone keypad for programming steps 2 to 8.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
Switch Codan on using ON/Off button on front panel.
Press Enter/R’call on Microphone TWICE.
Enter channel number. Do not enter a channel number that already exists.
Enter Receive Frequency to two decimal places using numerical keypad.
Press Enter/R’call on Microphone ONCE.
Enter Transmit Frequency to two decimal places using numerical keypad.
Press Enter/R’call on Microphone ONCE.
Display shows channel options. USB, LSB, LU, T1, S1, etc.
Rotate Select (4, page D12) to choose sideband setting. Upper sideband
(USB).
Lower sideband (LSB). USB and LSB selectable (LU)
Rotate Volume (6, page D12) to highlight Tone call settings.
Rotate Select to choose T- to disallow calls. Option not required.
Rotate Volume to highlight Selcall group setting.
Rotate Select to choose S1 to use channel for Selcall. S- disallows calls on the
channel.
Rotate Volume to highlight channel protection.
Rotate Select to P or NP (Protect or Not Protect channel from alteration)
Press Enter/R’call on Microphone ONCE.
Enter comment by selecting characters with Select knob and moving between
characters with Volume knob. (Optional) Clear text with F1.
Save channel by pressing Enter/R’call ONCE.
Repeat from 2 above to program another channel.
Some of the above options may not be required, in which case, just press Enter/R’call to
skip to next option.
Care should be taken not to program channels already existing. Entering the number of
a channel that already exists, the transceiver will beep. Press PTT to exit and start
procedure again.
PROGRAMMING RECEIVE ONLY CHANNEL
Proceed as above to step 6 where transmit frequency should be entered as 0 (zero).
This will inhibit transmission on the channel. Step 7 to 19 same as above.
Page D27
HF Communications
PROGRAMMING A SELCALL
A Selcall is a personal digital Identification (ID) given to a radio so that one radio can
contact another individual radio without distracting others.
Do not program a selcall number ending in '00' or ‘GG’; they are reserved for group and
beacon call use.
Creating a new or changing an existing Selcall number proceed as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Press the Mode (3) keypad to display the Set-up Menu.
Rotate Select (4) dial to highlight the Scan option.
Enter 2 (Microphone keypad) to display the Call Menu.
Enter 1 to display the Selcall Menu.
Enter 1 to display the Selcall Group.
Enter the number of the selcall group you want to create or edit, using the
keypad on the front panel of the transceiver or microphone handset.
Press the F2 keypad.
Enter the selcall number for the transceiver you are configuring. This should be
a four-digit number, do not use 00 in the sequence.
Press the Enter/R’call keypad. In doing this, you are prompted to enter the
address of a remote transceiver. If there are more than two stations in the radio
network, leave this Blank.
Rotate the Select dial to highlight the type of selcall. The selcall type should be
set to Codan.
Press the Enter/R’call keypad.
Enter a description for the selcall group by using the Select and Volume dials to
choose the text. (Optional)
Press the Enter/R’call keypad.
Press the Mode keypad to return to channel mode.
CREATING A SCAN TABLE
Scan tables determine which channels are monitored for incoming calls when in scan
mode. The transceiver accommodates five scan tables and each scan table can consist
of a maximum of ten channels. To create a scan table:
1. Press the On/Off keypad to switch on the transceiver.
2. Press the Mode keypad to select channel mode.
3. Press the Scan keypad to show the Scan table screen.
4. Rotate the Select dial, highlight the Scan Table number to create or edit. The
default scan table number is 1.
5. Press the F2 keypad to continue. The display gives you an option to delete a
table (F1) or program a table (F2).
6. Press the F2 keypad to program a scan table. The display prompts the User to
give the scan table a name.
7. Enter a name for the scan table. If a name already exists, to clear it, push the
F1 keypad once.
8. Press the F2 keypad to store the name.
Page D28
HF Communications
SELECTING THE SCANNING MODE
1.
2.
Rotate the Select dial, to highlight the type of scanning you want to set as
default.
·
Cont. Scanning is continuous. Each channel is scanned for 0.6
seconds and scanning will stop when a selcall is received.
·
Pause. Scanning is continuous until a voice is detected on a channel.
Scanning will pause for five seconds then resume, scanning will stop
when a selcall is received.
·
Hold.
Scanning is continuous until voice is detected on a
channel. Scanning will hold on that channel for a long as the voice is
detected. Scanning will also stop when a selcall is received.
·
Selcall
Scanning will only stop for a selcall.
Press the F2 keypad to accept the default (CONT) setting.
ADDING A CHANNEL TO THE SCAN TABLE
1.
2.
3.
Rotate the Select dial, to display a channel you want to be added to the scan
table.
Press the F2 keypad to store the channel to the scan table. To add another
channel, repeat the last two steps until there are no more channels to add or
until channel number ten has been added.
Press the Scan keypad to save the changes made to the scan table and the
transceiver will be returned to channel mode.
DELETING A CHANNEL FROM A SCAN TABLE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Rotate the Select dial, to display a channel you want to be deleted from the
scan table.
Press the F1 keypad to delete the channel from the scan table. To delete
another channel, repeat the last two steps.
Press the Scan keypad to save the changes made to the scan table and the
transceiver will be returned to channel mode.
Select a Scan Table for Scanning
Press the Mode keypad to make sure you are in channel mode.
Press the Scan keypad.
Rotate the Select dial to highlight the scan table number you use for scanning.
Press the Scan keypad to confirm the scan table number.
Press the Scan keypad to save the changes made to the scan table and the transceiver
will be returned to channel mode.
SELECT A SCAN TABLE FOR SCANNING.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Press the Mode keypad to make sure you are in channel mode.
Press the Scan keypad.
Rotate the Select dial to highlight the scan table number required.
Press the scan keypad to confirm the scan table number.
Page D29
HF Communications
9360/9780 FAULT DIAGNOSIS
Though originally written for the 9780 series of transceivers the following notes
apply equally to most Codan radios.
The following points should be followed in sequence. This should enable you to identify
the problem area. Do not start swapping and changing items around until the following
tests have been made. The microphone and all cables must be connected.
1.
Press Power On/Off keypad.
Does the Liquid Crystal Display light up and show channel numbers and frequencies?
YES. Proceed to 2.
NO. Check battery voltage, fuse, connecting leads reversed or damaged, lead between
remote head and transceiver disconnected, and battery connectors corroded. If display
shows UN-LOC Error, change main transceiver body, control head should be OK, and
return for repair.
2.
Is noise coming from speaker? (S'Call and Mute On’ Off display lights must be
off)
YES. Proceed to 3.
NO. Check loudspeaker connection in remote head, junction box (NGT) or transceiver,
try increasing volume control. Noise of some kind should be heard, otherwise suspect
faulty loudspeaker or speaker lead.
Do not press the PTT microphone switch during the following checks.
1.
Does noise from loudspeaker increase when centre of SO239 socket (antenna)
on rear of Codan is touched with a metallic object? (Remove coaxial cable to
test)
YES. Proceed to 4. (Reconnect coaxial cable first)
NO. Noise from loudspeaker does not change, suspect radio faulty.
2.
Does noise increase when centre pin on PL259 plug connected to antenna is
touched by metallic object? (Remove coaxial plug from antenna to test)
YES. Proceed to 5. (Suspect antenna fault)
NO. Suspect antenna cable (Test by temporary substitution)
3.
Manually tune antenna. Motor noise in base of antenna heard?
YES. Try tuning on other channels. If radio tunes satisfactorily on some channels, but
not others, suspect a poor earth connection on antenna or faulty whip.
NO. Suspect antenna or multi-way cable. Change antenna first to test.
During the tuning process 'pips' should be heard through the loudspeaker. A tune fail
sound, on some channels only, indicates a jammed antenna, faulty whip or poor earth
connection between antenna base and chassis of vehicle. A faulty antenna can damage
the radio, if in doubt change both.
All tests satisfactory, Selcall OK but reports of no sound, suspect Microphone.
Page D30
HF Communications
Page D31
HF Communications
OXFAM CODE KHB – HF BASE STATION
An HF unit for base station installation, for in-country voice link to other HF radios.
Kit Contents:
One CODAN NGT Base Station Package. Part number 02-10228
Comprising:
Desk consol, handset, RF unit, junction box, C411 series antenna, cables and
manual
Featuring:
- innovative hand set user interface
- 15 channels, 1.6-30MHz
- 125 watts (PEP), 12V.DC, USB/LSB/AM
- in-built Easitalk speech processing
- emergency call
- selective call
- phone call (optional)
- scanning
- handset programming
- remote diagnostics
- Morse call capability
- meets MIL-STD 810E for shock and vibration
OXFAM CODE KHM – HF MOBILE STATION
An HF unit for installation within a vehicle, for in-country voice link to other HF radios.
Kit Contents:
One CODAN NGT Mobile Package. Part number 02-10231
Comprising:
handset, RF unit, junction box, 9350 antenna, cables, mounting accessories
and manuals.
Featuring:
- innovative hand set user interface
- 15 channels, 1.6-30MHz
- 125 watts (PEP), 12V.DC, USB/LSB/AM
- in-built Easitalk speech processing
- emergency call
- selective call
- phone call (optional)
- scanning
- handset programming
- remote diagnostics
- Morse call capability
- meets MIL-STD 810E for shock and vibration
Page D32
HF Communications
THE OXFAM CODE KHD - DATA KIT
Please Note. The 3012 modem is a replacement for the 9002 modem. Introduced in
2002 this new model can be used with any model Codan transceiver capable of data
transmission. Likewise the 9002 modem can be used with the new NGT series of
transceivers introduced in 2001. Only the connecting cable differs, depending
upon the model of the Codan transceiver.
Comprehensive details on installing and running the modem will be found in the
handbook entitled 'HF Data Modem 3012 Reference Manual' supplied with each kit. It is
suggested that this should be referred to if any problems arise.
When ordering a 3012 modem please state the model and serial number of the Codan
transceiver it will be used with. This is essential to ensure that the correct connecting
cables are supplied.
If fitting an older type 9002 modem to an NGT transceiver the correct cable between
transceiver and modem will need to be obtained.
The Oxfam KHD kit is designed as a self-contained add-on kit, which, when combined
with a KHB kit and a computer terminal, allows you to transmit and receive error free data
over a high frequency (HF) channel. It is particularly useful in remote areas where there
is a need for transmitting computer-generated files (word-processing, spreadsheet, or
database files).
Compared to Internet data transference over networks or telephone lines, the
transmission speed on HF radio is very slow. It is comparable with Satcom data
conveyance. Connecting the radio directly into the Internet network will increase costs
considerable. It is more cost effective to transfer data files sent by HF radio to a hard or
floppy disc first before downloading onto the Internet.
Modifications to the NGT (fitting a fan kit) or older type Codan radios will be required if
the modem is to be fitted to a transceiver that has not previously been customized for
data. Advice must be obtained from Logistics in Oxfam House, or Codan, as the services
of a technician may be required to modify older type radios.
Where the following notes are used for installing a 9002 modem the cable part numbers
will differ. Installing the software remains the same.
Page D33
HF Communications
INSTALLING THE 3012 DATA MODEM.
Place the modem on top of the NGT transceiver. Connect the earth strap between the
transceiver and 3012 modem. Screws are provided on the rear of the cases for this
purpose.
The cable labelled '08-05712-001' should be connected between the 15 way female
socket on the junction box of the NGT transceiver and the socket marked Transceiver on
the modem. Connect the computer cable labelled 08-05086-001, between the Terminal
socket on the modem and the serial port of the PC.
Switching on the NGT should result in a steady green light appearing on the left hand
LED of the 3012 modem, after the red LED's of the throughput indicator have illuminated
briefly.
INSTALLING THE 9102 SOFTWARE
Before installing the software provided, make a backup copy of the disk. Use the MSDOS command 'disk copy A: A:' to make exact copies. Load the program from the copy
not the original, which should be kept in a safe place. The software does not run under
Windows and must be installed from the C:\ prompt. Insert the disk in the A drive.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Type ‘A:\ Install’ at the DOS prompt and then press Enter. An installation
Welcome screen is displayed after the install program has been loaded.
Press Enter. The directory screen is displayed.
Press Enter again. When 9102 indicates that the installation has finished,
remove the installation floppy disk.
To start program, Type ‘CD\9102’ at the C:\ prompt and then press Enter. The
prompt should change to C:\9102>
Type ‘9102’ then press Enter. The main program screen will be displayed.
Further comprehensive details on running the program will be found in the handbook
entitled '9102 Fax and data controller software' supplied with each kit. It is suggested that
this should be referred to if any problems arise.
Where an extensive radio network is in operation, it is recommended that a full-blown
email program running under Windows 9x should be used. Consult the Logistics Team
for further information.
OXFAM CODE KHD- HF DATA KIT
An add-on Modem kit. When combined with the KHB HF base station kit, personal
computer and e-mail software, data can be transmitted between radios.
Kit Contents:
1.
One CODAN 3012 modem supplied with all interconnecting leads, User
manuals and Codan 9102 communications software for PC control of modem.
Features include; 2400 BPS, error free data transmission binary and text file
transfer data scrambled for security.
Page D34
HF Communications
THE KM KIT
Where a local source of materials is not available, the Oxfam KM kit allows a HF or VHF
antenna to be erected to a height of around 35 feet from ground level. Each kit consists
of a telescopic mast with lockable sections and sufficient guy ropes and an anchor socket.
The anchor socket is provided to steady the bottom of the mast during the erection,
avoiding the need to fabricate a fixing point for the base.
Every antenna and mast installation presents a different set of problems, and solutions
have few features in common. Careful consideration must be given to any dangers to
persons or property, which could result from the collapse of a mast during severe weather
conditions. It is essential to err on the side of safety, even though this may result in a
more substantial construction. The use of alternative supports for the antenna should not
be overlooked. Convenient trees, galvanised irrigation pipes or PVC tubing can all make
excellent supports for antennas. For relatively short distances, radio wise, transmitting
from a lower antenna than normal will be perfectly satisfactory. A single 6-meter length of
plastic pipe being adequate to support both the HF and VHF antennas where short-range
contacts are required.
Telescopic masts are difficult to erect single-handedly, extra helping hands make the job
much easier.
Care and thought should be given to the location of the mast. If possible keep the
antenna and mast well away from overhead power lines and other obstructions. Allow
sufficient space for the HF antenna to be accommodated comfortably. Take into account
the extra room needed for the HF antenna wires and halyards when finally in position.
The VHF vertical antenna should not be close to or level with other vertical structures.
Each installation will depend upon the local situation and only general advice can be given
here.
Page D35
HF Communications
ERECTING THE MAST.
Diagram of a Mast Being Erected
All Telescopic masts require different techniques to erect than those used for the
sectional aluminium sections previously supplied. The method to adapt is as follows:
Locate the base plate/spike provided in a suitable place. This will prevent the base of the
mast from slipping. Consideration should be given to the position of the anchor points for
the guy ropes. If possible, they should be arranged about 120° apart around the base of
the mast. Position of the halyards will ensure the mast remains upright once in position
and not have a tendency to bend during inclement weather. All antennas are now fixed to
the top section of the mast. If both VHF and HF antenna are required on the same mast,
the VHF antenna must be fastened above the HF antenna. Before starting to extend the
mast, check that all antennas are securely bolted and complete in every respect. Refer to
antenna installation instructions in HF and VHF sections of this manual for details.
Make sure that each section is locked into position before attempting to raise the next
part. The three lock pins at the top of each section can only be located correctly when the
tube above is extended to its fullest extent. Once extended, twisting slightly will enable
the lock locating holes to be found. As supplied the mast is coated with preservative, this
can cause problems due to it being slippery and hard to grip. Use gloves or similar aids
to help in extending the mast.
It is essential that a number of helpers are employed during this process so that the mast
can be kept upright and under control. As the mast is extended the coaxial cables from
the antennas should be fastened to the mast sections using the plastic ties, supplied as
part of the antenna kit. Fully extended, all guy ropes should be fastened to suitable fixing
points. The tension of the ropes is then adjusted so that the mast stays upright. The HF
wire antenna can also be utilised as part of the halyard system to help support the mast.
OXFAM CODE KM/3 - LIGHTWEIGHT MAST KIT
A standard 35-foot telescopic mast kit. Suitable for either HF or VHF base station use.
Kit Contents
1.
One 35 foot telescopic mast in seven sections, type MSM-35 complete with:
Guys/ground stays. Base plate. Spring loaded locking pins
Page D36
Oxfam Communication Manual
POWER
SUPPLIES
Page E1
Power Supplies
POWER SUPPLIES
Every item of electrical or electronic equipment needs a source of power to enable it to
function. The amount required varies from a few micro-amps for a hand-held calculator to
hundreds of amps for a very high power broadcast transmitter. For the equipment to work
at its full potential the power source must be capable of supplying a current greater than
or equal to that required.
A 12 volt HF or VHF transceiver, running speech or data, and where the transmit output is
in the region of 100 watts, needs a power supply capable of supplying a current of around
16 amps without overheating. This may be obtained either from a generator or the public
mains via a stabilised power supply (Codan 9114) or directly from a 12-volt battery (with
float charger) of sufficient capacity to supply the full load current.
The voltage from a generator or mains supply normally varies between 220 and 240 volts
AC (Alternating Current). Most power supplies and chargers are designed to operate
quite happily at this sort of voltage. If a sudden increase or surge of voltage occurs, and
this can happen within milliseconds, it is possible that the power supply or charger could
be damaged and cease to function. Though slightly inconvenient, it is ESSENTIAL that
the Sollatek AVS13 supplied as part of the Oxfam KP power kit is in circuit at all times to
prevent this happening.
Connecting the Battery
Power cables should be connected to the battery with clamps. This is more reliable than
crocodile clips. The cable to battery clamp connection must have a good electrical
connection. As a large amount of current flows the use of soldered Jugs on the ends of
the wire is the recommended method of attachment.
Battery terminals should be clean and dry before connecting the clamps. If troubled by
corrosion, a small amount of grease or Vaseline smeared over the battery terminals will
help to prevent this occurring in future.
Corrosion is best dealt with by pouring boiling water over the terminals. Follow this by
scraping all traces of the corrosion from around terminals and clamps. The clamps can
be boiled in water if necessary to remove traces of corrosion and loosen the bolts. Regrease only when all traces of corrosion have disappeared.
When using lead-acid type batteries it is important to maintain the water-acid mixture at
the correct level, which is just above the plates. NEVER add acid; it is only the water in
the battery that evaporates. Replace with distilled water (clean rainwater will do, if distilled
is not available). Wipe any spilled water off battery straight away.
Page E2
Power Supplies
INCREASING THE CAPACITY
There is sometimes a need to increase the storage capacity of your 12-volt supply. For
instance, where the 240-volt charging supply is intermittent and the present battery is not
capable of handling the current required. Increasing the battery capacity with a locally
purchased battery can provide a satisfactory solution.
The capacity of a battery is denoted in Ampere/Hours or AH. For instance, a fully
charged 80AH battery can deliver 1 amp for 80 hours or 20 amps for 4 hours before
becoming discharged. If a 100-watt transceiver requires an average current of 6 amps
then a fully charged 100AH capacity battery would be discharged in approx. sixteen and
half-hours.
To increase the capacity of a storage battery it is possible to connect two or more in
parallel. Connect positive to positive and negative to negative taking the output from
either or both of the batteries. See the diagram below for details.
Connecting Parallel Batteries
Adding a third 80AH battery in parallel will increase the capacity to 240 Amp Hours.
However, it will take correspondingly longer to recharge the batteries. The cable
connecting battery A to battery B should be as short as practicable. The diameter of the
connecting cable should be at least as large as the transceiver supply cable.
WARNING:
Connecting two 80AH batteries in SERIES. For example, a positive connected to a
negative with the output taken from the two remaining terminals, will produce 24 volts at
80 amps.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CONNECT THE BATTERIES IN SERIES.
Short-circuiting the terminals of a battery together is extremely dangerous. Beside the
potential for an explosion, the current from a large battery is quite capable of welding and
melting large pieces of metal while getting them red hot in the process. Metal objects
such as spanners and screwdrivers must never be left on top of batteries.
More than one transceiver can be connected to the battery at the same time. All Red (+)
leads go to the positive (large) battery terminal (via the fuse) and all Black (-) leads go to
the negative (small) terminal on the battery.
DO NOT GET IT WRONG!
Page E3
Power Supplies
Page E4
Power Supplies
CHARGING AND DISCHARGING
When a battery is being charged, a chemical reaction takes place, which produces
hydrogen gas. Care should be taken not to breathe the fumes and to keep the battery in
a well ventilated area. Naked flames, sparks and red-hot metal should be kept well away
as the gas is highly explosive in air.
The storage capacity of a battery will be damaged, if excessive charge and discharge
currents are continuously being applied.
All batteries have a limited capacity and after a certain time, even if not being used will
become discharged. To maintain the charge a method is used called trickle charging.
This means supplying the battery with a steady current sufficient to keep its capacity
preserved without overcharging. A balancing act is performed whereby the charger
replaces the current consumed by the radio. Too little charge and the battery will
eventually run down.
Modern transceivers consume more current when transmitting than when receiving. A
battery will last much longer before requiring a re-charge if the transmitter is only used for
short periods at a time. Typically the Codan 9360 100 watt HF transceiver needs a 12volt supply at less than 0.5 amps on receive whereas it can use around 16.0 amps on
transmit speech peaks. It follows that a 40-amp hour battery can operate a Codan radio
for 80 hours on receive but about 2 hours on transmit before a re-charge is due.
Page E5
Power Supplies
THE OXFAM KP KIT
When mains power is available for several hours a day and solar power is not a practical
possibility, the KP kit is probably the ideal solution for an uninterruptible radio station.
Containing a Codan 9114 12-volt 16 amp continuous duty power supply, which doubles
up as a charger, connected to the 100AH solid gel battery the kit is capable of supplying
current to both VHF and HF transceivers simultaneously. In the event of a power cut the
battery takes over instantly and will keep the radios running for a considerable time before
re-charging is
required. When power is restored the battery is automatically charged up.
Connecting the Codan 9114 Power Supply.
Using a smaller locally purchased charger, a balance should be struck between the
amount of time mains or generator power is available, the capacity of the battery and the
size of the charger. The charging time should more or less offset the amount of current
being consumed by the transceivers. For example, a 5-amp charger will require 16 hours
to charge an 80 AH battery, which will then be discharged in 4 hours by a 20-amp
transmitter. In practise the receiver section of the radio will draw very little current and an
80-amp battery should provide at least 160 hours of reception before a re-charge is
required. Keep voice or data transmissions to a minimum if you want the battery to last.
Other items of equipment using 12-volt DC can be connected to the battery. Please
make sure that fuses are incorporated in the leads and that ALL positive red wires go to
the (large) + terminal and all negative black wires go to the (small) - terminal.
OXFAM CODE KP - POWER SUPPLY KIT
Kit Contents
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
One Codan 9114 power supply. Input 110-120/220-24O-volt AC
13.8-volt output l6amp DC.
20amp peak. Fitted 13Amp plug.
One 12-volt 100 Amp Battery. Gel filled deep cycling - Non-Hazardous.
One Codan 702 float charge cable kit.
One Sollatek Automatic Voltage Sensor AVS13. 13amp socket outlet fitted 13
amp fused plug.
Two Four-way 13 amp extension sockets with 5-metre cable fitted 13 amp
plugs.
Two 13-amp 3 pin to 2 pin adapters.
Page E6
Power Supplies
THE OXFAM KSP KIT
THE SOLAR PANEL
Solar energy is probably the most cost effective long-term means of charging a battery for
radio communication purposes when a reliable source of power is not available. Once
correctly installed, apart from an occasional routine cleaning of the panel and checking
battery connections, operation should be virtually maintenance free. Running costs being
nil.
Extra amounts of power consumed by satellite systems, printers and fax machines would
need extra solar panels being fitted to keep the batteries fully charged. This is not
impossible but would require quite heavy initial capital costs and alternative means may
have to be employed. Before embarking upon such a step please consult with the
Logistics Team in Oxfam House.
Solar panels must be installed correctly. Correct orientation and inclination are vital to
the success of the system. The panel should be installed as close as possible to the
regulator, using thick heavy-duty leads correctly terminated. Likewise the regulator should
be installed as close as possible to the battery, again using heavy-duty leads with
soldered lugs on the ends. Under no circumstances must the regulator be left out of
circuit. It is designed to prevent excess voltage from the solar panel damaging or closing
down the transceivers.
Panels are positioned where they can catch the maximum amount of sunshine for the
longest possible time. Near the equator a slight inclination should always be given to the
panel allowing rainwater to run off. While the sun is visible in the sky the panel must be
allowed to "see the sun" and not become obscured by other buildings and trees etc. At
midday the panel should be orientated so that it is directly facing the sun. This will ensure
maximum current will be developed to charge the battery. Full assembly instructions are
included in the KSP kits.
Connecting the KSP Kit
This kit is designed to provide a source of 12-volt DC and 240-volt AC for average daily
use. Primarily for use with HF data/voice and VHF voice equipment, the power, provided
by the voltage inverter, is limited. If a large quantity of equipment requires solar power,
then a more substantial system should be designed to meet those particular needs.
Page E7
Power Supplies
Page E8
Power Supplies
OXFAM CODE KSP - SOLAR POWER KIT
Kit contents:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
One Solar panel, 12 volt, 60-watt peak.
One Charge regulator.
One 12 volt 100 Amp battery. Gel filled deep cycling.
One 12 volt DC to 220 volt AC inverter 400 watt capacity, 12/1400.
One 5-metre extension cable with 4 x 13 amp sockets.
One Set of connection leads.
THE INVERTER
There are some items of electrical equipment, which only operate on a single high AC
voltage. Where a need arises to use this type of apparatus, and no mains or diesel/petrol
generator is available to supply the power, an inverter has to be employed. This takes a
low voltage, such as 12 volts DC from a storage battery, and transforms it into a 240 volt
AC. The inverter in the KSP kit will supply this voltage up to maximum of 400 watts
output power. As the solar kit is designed primarily to supply power to the 12 volts HF
and VHF transceivers any higher capacity inverter would increase the battery drain and
the solar panel would be unable to cope with the extra load. 400 watts is sufficient to
operate a small printer, a laptop computer, or chargers for handheld radios, but not items
such as photocopiers, large desktop PC's or other large items of office equipment.
Please check the rating plates on the items you wish to connect to the inverter outlet.
Add them together up to a maximum of 400 watts. This is equivalent to almost 2 amps of
current. Do not exceed the stated rating, as internal components may become overloaded
and burn out.
Please Note:
The greater the collective wattage of items connected to the inverter the quicker the
battery will run down, and the longer it will take to recharge.
Page E9
Power Supplies
OXFAM KG KIT
Where regular maintenance and a steady supply of fuel can be arranged the 5 KVA
generated by the KG kit is sufficient to run a typical small office with HF and VHF
communications equipment and some standard office equipment.
The speed of the generator must be set AND FIXED so that the voltage does not exceed
230 volts AC. A multi-meter should be used to check the voltage at the 13 amp outlet
sockets mounted on the machine. This must be done before putting the machine into
service. Serious damage can occur if the generator speed is set too high for any length of
time. The recommended maximum is 300 rpm.
Long extension leads, unless they are a substantial size, can lead to a voltage drop along
their length. Do not attempt to correct this loss by increasing the speed of the engine, far
better to Increase the size of the leads.
Due to the high level of vibration occurring whilst running a small diesel engine it is
important that all engine and generator bolts and screws should be regularly checked for
tightness.
Regular engine oil, fuel and oil filter changes as per the manufacturer’s instructions will
prolong the working life of the generator.
OXFAM CODE KG - GENERATOR KIT
Kit Contents:
1.
One ATALANTA FURY 50-1, 5KVA continuous diesel generating set
incorporating a Lister Petter AD1 4 stroke air-cooled diesel engine, operating at
3000 rpm and close coupled to brushless AC alternator. 240 volts Single phase
50 Hz output. Power Factor 0.8
Complete with set mounted control box containing 2 units 13 amp plug and socket and all
necessary wiring and fuses. Complete unit will be mounted within a steel crash frame on
a two-wheel trolley.
2000-hours running spares will be supplied and packed with the above unit.
THE SOLLATEK AVS13
The Protector
The AVS13 is an automatic voltage switcher rated at 13 amps. It is used to safeguard
electrical equipment from damage caused by a faulty or fluctuating power supply. If the
voltage goes outside certain pre-set limits it will automatically switch off the power to the
item of equipment attached to the outlet. These pre-set limits are set at 190 and 260 volts
AC. When first connected into circuit there will be a “waiting time” of about 1 minute
whilst the AVS13 is monitoring the mains supply. After being connected to a power
source, the yellow centre LED indicates that the voltage is within acceptable limits. The
Green LED lighting up indicates normal operations. If the Red LED lights, this signifies a
voltage outside the pre-set limits, the switcher will then automatically disconnect the
appliance from the power supply. It is tempting at this point to take the AVS13 out of
circuit. The appliance will work without it. That is, until the appliance transformer
overheats, the fuse blows, an internal component burns out, or some other expensive
fault occurs.
Page E10
Oxfam Communication Manual
COMMUNICATION
TOOL KIT
Page F1
The Tool Kit
THE KT KIT
Of all the pieces that make up the tool kit listed at the end of this section, a few of the
Items require an explanation as to their correct operation and usage. Also included in this
section is the correct method of fitting coaxial antenna plugs encountered in the Oxfam
kits.
THE MULTI-METER
When used correctly the standard digital multi-meter supplied in the toolkit can help
identify and track down many of the faults associated with radio and electrical items.
However, some of the internal components, which make up the instrument, cannot
withstand abuse. For that reason it is important to make sure that the range switch is
always in the correct position before the meter is connected into circuit. Though the
meter has an internal overload protection device there could be circumstances where this
is not effective.
Trying to test AC or DC voltages when the meter is switched to the Ohms or Milliamps
range is asking for trouble. Likewise testing for resistance (Ohms) while the radio or other
piece of electrical gear is still switched on, and, or connected to the power source, is not
recommended. Serious damage to the multi-meters internal components can occur
unless care is taken to select the correct range. Never, for instance, test a current on any
range except Amps.
USING THE MULTI-METER
Before using the multi-meter, the manufacturer’s instruction leaflet should be read and
understood. The black lead is plugged into the middle socket marked COM, the red lead
goes into the right hand socket marked with a V. To test the meter for the first time turn
the switch to the OHMS X100 range. After plugging in the red and black leads, connect
the two prods together and check that the reading on the display panel reads in the region
of 0.5 or below. If no alteration of the reading is detected then the 9 volt internal battery is
either missing or has run down and should be replaced. Remove screws on rear of case
and remove back to locate the battery. It is important to replace battery with another of
the same voltage. Make sure the battery polarity is correct when fitting. Use the 600-volt
V range for checking AC mains or generator output volts. The Ω range is used for
measuring continuity or resistance. The A range is a current range. When high current
ranges, i.e.: over 200ma are to be measured, the red lead is transferred to the left hand
socket and the range switch is turned to 10amps BEFORE connecting the prods to the
item being checked. The other V range is used for measurement of DC voltages such as
those found when testing vehicle batteries or the OUTPUT of 13.8v power supplies.
Remember to turn the selector switch to the correct or higher range before applying the
prods.
After use the multi-meter must always be stored with the range switch set to the OFF
position so as to avoid running the battery down.
WARNING
Damage WILL occur and the multi-meter will be rendered useless if measurements are
attempted with the meter switch is in the wrong position. Be especially careful whilst
measuring current (Amps and Milliamps). Always leave the switch in the OFF position to
conserve the battery.
Page F2
The Tool Kit
THE SOLDERING IRON
To successfully solder an electrical joint the following points should be noted.
The soldering iron must have reached the correct temperature before soldering is
commenced. This will take about 5 to 10 minutes depending upon the supply voltage and
ambient temperature. Attempting to solder in the open air may be problematic due to the
cooling effect of the wind. If difficulty is experienced, use a shield or take the work
indoors.
Make sure the joint is clean and bright, if necessary using a file or emery cloth to remove
all traces of dirt, corrosion, oil and grease.
To avoid a 'dry-joint' it is essential that the metal has reached a sufficiently high
temperature for the solder to FLOW easily when applied to the joint. Using the tip of the
soldering iron to just melt the solder is NOT sufficient to ensure a good electrical joint. If
necessary, employ extra heat to the metal where a large joint is concerned. The solder
should run over, along and through the joint leaving a smooth surface. Take care,
however, not to over-heat the work.
Allow the completed soldered joint to cool down sufficiently before attempting to use the
work.
AMALGAMATING TAPE
This tape is used for sealing and waterproofing joints. It is not designed as electrical tape
and should only be used in areas subjected to the weather. It consists of two separate
parts, the amalgamating tape and a backing tape. The backing tape is discarded as
application proceeds. The amalgamating tape must be stretched by approximately 50%
while being wrapped around a joint. Make sure the tape overlaps itself during this
process. Stretching creates a chemical reaction, which causes the tape to amalgamate
with itself and seal the joint. Removal is best accomplished with the aid of the sharp
trimming knife.
CRIMPING PLIERS
These are used to crimp spare battery lugs onto the 12volt battery supply cable. The
cable is prepared by first stripping off about 1 inch of insulation. The wires are then folded
over half inch from the end and pushed into the lugs. If necessary a few strands of wire
can be removed to reduce the diameter of the cable before connecting to lug. Do not
make the push fit of wire into lug to loose, as the crimping will not be effective. Unless
you are certain of the completed connection it is better to apply solder the joint. Spare
lugs are usually supplied as part of the Codan mobile radio installation kit.
MASONRY DRILL BIT
A 400mm X 13mm Masonry drill bit is provided to allow either of the antenna coaxial
cables to be routed straight through brick walls rather than around open windows or
doors. In many cases this will make a much easier, tidier and shorter cable run.
Remember to always remove the PL259 plugs as they are more easily refitted without
damage. Under no circumstances should the N type plug be removed from the UR67
(thick) VHF coaxial cable. The drill length is sufficient to enable a hole to be drilled
through the average double brick wall.
Page F3
The Tool Kit
PL259 PLUGS
The standard connector supplied for most HF and VHF base radios is the PL259 coaxial
plug; the corresponding socket is an SO239. Different versions of the plugs and sockets
are available depending upon the diameter of the coaxial cable being used. Both are
fitted to the cable in a similar manner. Coaxial plugs from other manufacturers may have
a different construction or be designed for larger sizes of cable but the principal of fitting is
basically the same. The braiding of the coaxial cable is connected to the body of the plug
whilst the centre conductor of the cable is soldered to the central pin of the plug. There
must be no connection between centre conductor and outer braid. It is important that
these plugs are fitted to the coaxial cable correctly before being put into service.
Fitting the PL259 Plug
The following instructions apply to the PL259 plug supplied as part of the Codan HF kits.
Besides being used on the ends of the HF base and mobile antenna feeder cables, a
spare plug will be found amongst the accessories supplied as part of the KHB and KHM
kits.
Separate the plug into its component parts and prepare the cable by removing the
insulation from about 3 cm of the inner conductor. (See diagram below). Make sure the
inner conductor does not touch outer braid of cable.
Place the clamp nut and silicon pressure sleeve onto the coaxial cable taking care not to
short the inner wire of the cable to the screen (See diagram below)
Insert the ferrule between the braid and the dielectric. Trim off excess braid. Remove
dielectric insulation from inner conductor without damaging the inner conductor.
Plug body is then pushed onto cable with inner conductor protruding through centre pin.
Make sure ALL of the wire is through pin and that no stray strands are touching body of
plug. A check should be made for shorts using the Multi-meter on the Ohms range.
Threaded nut and rubber compression sleeve are pushed into body and tightened before
applying solder to the centre pin. Any surplus conductor protruding from pin should be cut
off flush.
Fitting the PL259 Plug
Page F4
The Tool Kit
BNC and N TYPE PLUGS.
BNC type plugs will be found on one end of the VHF mobile antenna cable supplied as
part of the Oxfam KVHW kit. An N type has been fitted to one end of the UR67 coaxial
cable and which connects that cable to the Kathrein VHF base antenna. Both types of
plug are similar in construction. They do however require more care in fitting than the
PL259 type, details of which are described on this page.
FITTING THE BNC and N PLUGS
The following instructions apply to both N and BNC plugs fastened to the ends of the VHF
base and mobile antenna feeder cables. It is not considered necessary to supply spare
plugs. If necessary they can be dismantled and repaired. When ordering replacements
please state type of coaxial cable. RG58 (BNC) or UR67 (N)
Separate the plug into its component parts and prepare the cable by removing about 8
mm of the outer covering. Leave the braid in position. Make sure the inner does not
touch the outer braid of cable.
Slide the clamp nut and pressure sleeve over cable. Comb the braid out vertically.
Insert the ferrule between braid and dielectric. Trim off any excess braid. Remove 5½
mm of dielectric insulation without damaging the inner conductor. Tin the end of the wire
using the soldering iron and multi-core solder.
Slide rear insulator over conductor and position against end of dielectric. Slide the
contact over prepared conductor until the shoulder of the contact is pressed hard against
the rear insulator. Solder the contact to the conductor but avoid over-heating. (This is the
most difficult step due to the small size of the centre contact)
Fit front insulator in plug body and push cable sub-assembly into the body as far as
possible. Slide pressure sleeve into body and screw in the clamp nut tightly to clamp
cable.
Fitting N and BNC plugs.
Page F5
The Tool Kit
OXFAM CODE KT
A standard tool kit for use with installation of communications equipment, and minor
repairs.
Kit contents:
1.
One
2.
One
3.
One
4.
One
5.
One
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
Two
Fifty
Fifty
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
Screwdrivers, 7 piece set
Parallel - 2.5 x 85, 4.0 x 100, 5.5 x 125, 6.5 x 150mm
Cross-Point - 0 x 75, 1 x 100, 2 x 200mm
Supplied in clear plastic wallet.
Watchmakers Tool Set, 11 piece set
Parallel - 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.8, 2.4, 3.0mm
Cross-point - PH0-2, PH0, PH1
Fine point awl and tweezers
Supplied in plastic case.
Mains Tester Screwdriver
100mm 150/250volts AC
Hexagon Key Set 9 piece metric
1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 & 10mm
Pliers Set 3 Pieces
Combination Pliers 160mm (6.25in)
Snipe Nose Pliers 160mm (6.25in)
Diagonal Cutters
160mm (6.25in)
Crimping Pliers (no Terminals)
Engineers Ball Pein Hammer 1/2lb
Retractable Trimming Knife with 5 Spare Blades
Flat Cold Chisel 18mm x 200mm
Junior Hacksaw
Grip Wrench 255mm (10in) Mole Grip
Combination Spanner 8mm x 120mm
Combination Spanner 10mm x 150mm
Combination Spanner 12mm x 160mm
Combination Spanner 13mm x 170mm
Combination Spanner 17mm x 261mm
Combination Spanner 24mm x 280mm
Black PVC Insulating Tape 19mm
Black PVC Insulating Tape 25mm
Digital Multi-meter with 9volt battery.
Weller 240volt 25watt Soldering Iron fitted 5 amp Fused Plug
Tube Resin Cored Solder 60/40 1.0mm
Extension Cable Reel 10 meter 5amp 1200watt capacity
13amp 3 pin Black Rubber Plugs
Cable Ties 4.8mm x 200mm
Cable Ties 7.6mm x 370mm
Box assorted Nuts and Bolts
Box Pozidriv Wood Screws
Box Assorted Wall Plugs
Tool box 430 x 2o5 x 205mm
40mm Standard Brass Padlock with keys.
Masonry Drill Set 7 piece Metric Nos. 4,5,5.5,6,6.5,8 and 10mm
Masonry Drill no.24. 13mm x 400mm 10mm Reduced Shank
HSS Drill Set 19 piece Metric 1.00mm to 10mm x 0.5mm incl.
Continued Overleaf
Page F6
The Tool Kit
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
One
One
Ten
One
One
Two
One
One
One
One
One
One
Ten
HSS Hole Saw 17mm
K1 Arbor for above Hole Saw
Junior hacksaw Blades 150mm
Engineers File 203mm Flat second Cut
Engineers File 203mm Round Second Cut
Standard Wooden File Handles
Hammer Action Drill 240volt AC 13mm Chuck
Reel Amalgamating Tape
Tube 100g Silicone Grease
12 way 06amp PVC Terminal Block
12 way 10amp PVC Terminal Block
12 way 30amp PVC Terminal Block
13amp Fuses for Plugs.
Page F7
Oxfam Communication Manual
MANAGING
THE NETWORK
Page G1
Managing The Network
MANAGING THE NETWORK
THE EQUIPMENT
Sufficient equipment should be available, preferably similar to that described earlier in
this manual, to enable the control or HQ station to communicate with all sites in the
network. Consideration should be given to providing alternative power where extended or
extensive operations are required. Mains, battery and solar power can be combined
together to provide a reliable and constant power source. A means of securing equipment
against theft whilst left unattended should also be high on the list of priorities. Operators
must be aware that the equipment they are using is both expensive to purchase and time
consuming to replace. Used properly, most modem transceivers are robust enough to
withstand normal daily use for a long period without attention. Routine maintenance
includes cleaning solar panels and making sure the antenna is in good condition. The
operator can check the condition and cleaning of corrosion from battery terminals.
Manufacturer's instruction manuals should be kept in a safe place for reference. It is
important that all installations of radio equipment, whether base or mobile are planned
beforehand. Routing and securing, of cables in particular, being well thought out before
commencing work.
Modern telecommunications equipment is so reliable these days that a fault occurring
during the guarantee period is considered extremely rare. A well thought out installation
should last for many years before repairs are needed. In many cases faults that do occur
are due to accidents, operator error or poor assembly procedures.
THE OPERATOR
Good operators are capable of remaining calm and controlled when working under
pressure. They should be familiar with the controls and operation of the equipment.
Basic faultfinding and maintenance ought to be included as part of their tasks. The ability
to record, keep and pass accurate messages is essential. Patience and perseverance in
repeating messages when reception is poor are vital to success. Enthusiasm for the job,
a good memory, legible handwriting and fluency in language are qualities, which all good
operators have to possess.
Page G2
Managing The Network
RADIO PROCEDURES
SENDING AND RECEIVING MESSAGES
Messages should be as concise and as clear as possible. Speak in a normal voice,
across, not into the microphone. Do not shout, even if excited, as this can cause
distortion of the signal.
Make sure you press and keep pressed the PTT (push to talk) switch on the microphone
before starting to speak. Failure to do this can lead to the loss of the first few words being
heard by the receiver.
Begin your transmission by saying the call sign of the station you wish to contact followed
by your own call in that order. Selcall can be used to advantage here to contact a
particular station, your selcall number being displayed upon the called stations receivers
screen.
Keep all messages to essential matters as others may be waiting to call in. Make sure all
concerned understands any message. Any doubt, the receiver should read the message
back to the sender, errors can then be corrected by a repeat. If radio conditions are poor
and noisy it is essential that the procedure is adhered to.
Conclude a message with the words "Over" or "Over to you" releasing the PTT switch on
the microphone immediately afterwards. Failure to finish a transmission with these words
can lead to a misunderstanding. Long pauses between sentences should be avoided as
much as possible. Confusion can arise if the operator lapses into periods of silence
during a transmission giving the impression that they have finished and are waiting for a
reply. Use of the word "Over" at the end of each transmission period should eliminate
these problems.
Nothing is worse than to find the other person is already speaking when you release the
PTT microphone switch.
Phonetics should be used where names, places or terms unfamiliar to the receiver are in
the text. If you do not understand any words or phrases do not make a guess, ask for a
repeat of the last message.
Finish the contact by identifying your station call-sign followed by the words "Out" or
“Signing Off" or "Going Clear". Try not to use "Over and Out" together. If you have
finished but will still be listening then use the expression "Standing By". "Stand By" can
be used where you wish a station to wait on the channel until you make contact again.
Unless everyone using the radio is familiar with "radio jargon" it is better to use normal
conversation. However certain words can be much more easily understood than others,
when radio conditions are poor. Substituting words such as "negative" instead of "no" and
" affirmative' for "yes", greatly increase your chances of being understood.
Never transmit political, military or confidential information over the airways. Any
contravention of the country regulations may result in withdrawal of permission to operate
and possible confiscation of station equipment by the local authorities.
Please Note. Portishead Radio, operated on the HF frequencies for many years by BT,
has now closed down. Oxfam, before the use of Satcom units became the ‘norm’, used
the facilities from time to time when international HF communications were required.
Page G3
Managing The Network
OPERATING PRACTICES
INITIAL CHECKS
The following practices apply to all types of radio voice and data transmissions. Before
commencing operations the following steps should be taken.
In severe weather and during thunderstorms, disconnect all base station antennas. Move
external cables away from the transceiver and do not reconnect until the storm has
passed over.
Physically check to make sure that all connections to the equipment are correct and
secure. Repair any faulty cable joints as soon as possible.
Check the battery. Has it been recharged since the last time the radio was used? Are
the battery terminals clean, free from corrosion and tight?
Running from a generator or mains supply.
operating correctly?
Is the AVS13 protector in circuit and
Does your set receive signals satisfactorily? Can you hear the usual signals? If not,
investigate the cause before transmitting.
Listen first. Make sure no one else is using the channel before calling. Unless you are
in an emergency situation, try not to transmit over a conversation already in progress. Do
not attempt to use the Selcall facility until the channel is clear.
When using Selcall allow time for the other stations automatic answer back to operate.
Calling again too soon may interrupt the incoming reply from the called station.
Do not keep pressing the Selcall pad. Twice is more than enough. If the other station
does not respond they are probably listening on another channel or have switched off.
Decide beforehand what you are going to say, making notes if necessary. Keep it clear,
concise and to the point.
If the message is long, divide it into smaller phrases, pausing to allow any queries, that
may arise, to be asked. Your message may have to be written down, conditions may not
be good, frequent pauses for confirmation will help.
Keep an accurate log with times of messages received and sent. Include the name of the
person who the message originated from and for whom it was intended. A suggested
layout of a typical log will be found near the end of this section.
Do not forget that anything you say can be heard by anyone listening in on the channel.
Depending upon the situation it may be wise to develop a system of simple codes for
sensitive subjects (e.g. alphanumeric codes for locations, initials for names).
Please note: 9002 modems are secure. Data file transmissions between two stations
using Codan equipment and software are encrypted before being sent. Decoding taking
place automatically at the receiving station.
Page G4
Managing The Network
RADIO JARGON
The following list gives some of the words used by professional and military radio
operators. It is worthwhile learning and understanding as many as possible.
Communication under difficult conditions can be improved by using some of these
expressions. Many of them can be used as either a question or an answer. For example,
I acknowledge, means, I have received your transmission. Please acknowledge, means,
confirm you have received my transmission.
Acknowledge
Affirmative
Break-Break
Correct
Correction
Disregard last
Go Ahead
for a reply.
Good Copy
I Copy
I Read Back
I Spell
Message Follows
Negative
Negative Copy
Out
Out to You
Over (to you)
Radio Check
Read Back
Relay
Relay Through
Roger
Roger so Far
Say Again
Send
Send Message
Stand By
Wait
Wait Out
Wrong
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
Confirm you have received my transmission?
Yes. I understand everything.
I have an URGENT emergency message.
You are correct.
=
The correct version is.
My last transmission was wrong, ignore it.
=
I have finished speaking, now listening
I have received and understood everything.
I copy everything you sent.
The following is read as I received from you.
I will spell the next word phonetically.
I have a formal message. Please write it down.
No.
Message NOT understood.
I have finished. No reply expected.
Nothing more to you. Calling another station.
I have finished speaking, listening for a reply.
How do you read my transmission?
Read the message back exactly as received.
Pass this message to.
Pass this message to ……via…..
Message received and understood.
Have received this part of the message.
=
Repeat last transmission.
Go ahead with your transmission.
Go ahead, I am ready to copy.
Wait on this channel for further messages.
I must stop for a few minutes.
I must stop, will call again when ready.
Incorrect, the correct version is.
Many other words are in use, depending upon the custom in a particular area or
profession. Some of these are plain words adapted from ordinary everyday language.
Common words or phrases such as hello, good-bye or how do you read me? are
frequently used but require no explanation or interpretation as they mean what they say.
Remember it is more important to be understood than to be proficient in the use of radio
jargon. Plain language sent slowly and clearly will always get the message through.
Page G5
Managing The Network
THE PHONETIC ALPHABET
In cases where prevailing radio conditions are poor and reception is weak, the spelling of
a word could be vital to the messages correct interpretation.
Use the phonetic alphabet in cases where you have difficulty in communicating with
another station or have been asked to repeat certain phrases.
When speaking, place the emphasis on the underlined portion of the word.
LETTER PHONETIC
SPOKEN AS
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z
ALPHA
BRAVO
CHARLIE
DELTA
ECHO
FOXTROT
GOLF
HOTEL
INDIA
JULIET
KILO
LIMA
MIKE
NOVEMBER
OSCAR
PAPA
QUEBEC
ROMEO
SIERRA
TANGO
UNIFORM
VICTOR
WHISKY
XRAY
YANKEE
ZULU
NUMERALS
SPOKEN AS
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
AL-FAH
BRAH-VO
CHAR-LEE
DELL-TAH
ECK-OH
FOKS-TROT
GOLF
HOH-TEL
IN-DEE-AH
JEW-LEE-ET
KEY-LO
LEE-MAH
MIKE
NO-VEM-BER
OSS-CAR
PAH-PAR
KEH-BECK
ROW-ME-OH
SEE-AIR-RAH
TANG-GO
YOU-NEE-FORM
VIK-TAH
WISS-KEY
ECKS-RAY
YANG-KEY
ZOO-LOO
ZERO
WUN
TOO
THUH-REE
FO-WER
FIFE
SIX
SEVEN
ATE
NINER
Page G6
Managing The Network
RADIO SIGNAL CODES
Commercial operators and radio amateurs use the following codes extensively. They are
included here as a source of information and are useful where an accurate assessment of
signal strength or speed in passing a message is required.
THE RS CODE
A simple code designed to inform the other station of the type of signal you are receiving
from them. R standing for Readability, S standing for Strength. For example, giving a
report of 5 and 5 means a perfectly readable signal at a fairly good strength, while a 3 and
3 report would indicate that you were having considerable difficulty reading the signal and
the signal strength was weak.
READABILITY
STRENGTH
R1
R2
distinguishable
R3
R4
R5
S1
S2
S3
S4
S5
S6
S7
S8
S9
Unreadable
Barely
readable,
occasional
words
Readable with considerable difficulty
Readable with practically no difficulty
Perfectly readable
Faint, signals barely perceptible
Very weak signals
Weak signals
Fair signals
Fairly good signals
Good signals
Moderately strong signals
Strong signals
Extremely strong signals
THE "Q" CODE
Q codes came into being internationally in 1912 to overcome the language problem
involved in communication by radio amongst ships and shore stations of different
nationalities. Originally devised for Morse code use, as a means of relaying standard
information quickly, it is now widespread amongst voice radio operators worldwide.
Though not essential for communications, awareness of the existence of Q codes may
help in certain circumstances. Many are used as questions or answers depending upon
circumstances. The following list contains just a few of the many Q codes in use today.
"Q" CODES
QRA
OSB
OTH
OSL
ORM
QRN
QSO
QSP
QRT
QRU
Name of station
There is fading on your signal
My location is
Can you acknowledge receipt?
I have interference from other stations
I have interference from electrical storms (static)
Radio contact
Relay message to --- (I will relay to)
I am stopping transmission (Stop transmitting)
Have you anything for me? (I have nothing for
ORV
QRX
QSY
QRZ
I am ready (go ahead)
Stand-by (wait until called)
Change channel (frequency)
Who is calling me?
you)
Page G7
Managing The Network
GENERAL FORMULAE & BBC WORLD FREQUENCIES
Ohm's Law
E = I x R, I = E / R, R = E / I
Where I = Amps (current), E = Volts, R = Ohm's (resistance)
Dipole Length Total Length in feet = 468 feet / Frequency in MHz
Total Length in Metres = 142.6 metres / Frequency in MHz
For example: A frequency of 7 MHz would require an antenna length of:
468 / 7 = 66.85 feet or 142.6 / 7 = 20.37 metres
From the above formulae a 7 MHz dipole would consist of two pieces of wire each 10.18
metres long. One piece should be connected to the centre core, the other to the braid of
the coaxial feeder. An insulator would be required at the centre and the ends of the wire.
Please Note: Polypropylene rope makes an excellent substitute for the end insulators and
halyards. In a dry climate the centre insulator could be fabricated from wood or some
other non-conducting material
Conversion Factors
Inches
Feet
Miles
Ounces
Pounds
Pints
Quarts
Gallons
Horsepower
Miles p/Hour
Miles p/Gall
Temperature
x 25.40 = millimetres
x
0.305 = metres
x
1.609 = kilometres
x 28.35 = grams
x
0.454 = kilograms
x
0.568 = litres
x
1.137 = litres
x
4.456 = litres
x 745.70 = watts
x
1.609 = km per hr
x
0.354 = km per litre
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
Degrees Fahrenheit
Degrees Centigrade
0.0394
3.281
0.621
0.035
2.205
1.76
0.88
0.22
0.0013
0.621
2.825
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
Inches
Feet
Miles
Ounces
Pounds
Pints
Quarts
Gallons
Horsepower
Miles p/Hour
Miles p/Gall
=
=
(ºC x 1.8) - 32
(ºF - 32) x 0.56
BBC WORLD SERVICE FREQUENCIES
The following list gives a few of the more popular frequencies used for the BBC World
Service broadcasts. There are others. Reception quality is dependant upon your location
and the frequency chosen. It is worthwhile trying a few different frequencies to determine
the best reception at any one time. Transmission times are not given as these can vary
according to the program schedule and location. All frequencies are given in MHz
21.660
17.860
15.400
11.940
09.600
21.490
17.790
15.105
11.860
09.410
21.470
17.705
15.070
11.760
07.160
17.885
17.640
14.575
11.730
06.005
17.880
15.420
12.095
09.630
Please be aware that the channel transmit facility on a transceiver should be inhibited
when attempting to program the BBC World Service, or any other broadcast frequency,
into the receiver.
Page G8
Managing The Network
THE LOGBOOK
Where many items of information are being passed though a busy station it is vital that an
accurate log is kept of all conversations. This should record all outgoing and incoming
messages, who they were from and whom they were to, together with the time and date of
transmission.
Logbooks can take the form of a duplicate book where the message is passed on to the
appropriate person while an exact copy is retained for reference. Do not use a loose-leaf
type of book or scraps of paper. They can easily be lost, torn out or destroyed.
Written messages are essential to ensure the smooth running of a network. Verbal
message’s are easily forgotten or mistaken!
Before the contact begins the operator should write down the message, the date and
time, whether the communication is outgoing, who the message is for and who it is from,
in the appropriate columns. An indication of when the information was sent should also
be included. This last to be filled in only AFTER the message has been passed.
Below is an example of a typical logbook, which could be used as a template and can be
transferred to an exercise book by the radio operator.
Date
Time
Rcvd
Call Sign
Call
To/From
Channel
Serial
Number
Operator
Text
Page G9
Oxfam Communication Manual
THE OXFAM
KITS
The Oxfam Kits
OXFAM CODE KSATM-MOBILE SATELLITE UNIT
A mobile satellite unit for international voice, data and fax links to any other international
telephone, modem or fax. Operation from 12-volt DC or 110 to 230 volt AC mains.
Kit Contents:
1.
Inmarsat
Includes:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
mini-M satphone system for telephone, fax or data transmissions.
Telephone handset.
Built-in Fax and data modem interface.
External antenna. (Contained in lid)
Power cable for 12-volt car battery with crocodile clips.
Power cable for 110 to 230 volt AC mains with 13-amp plug.
Antenna extension cable.
Cable with adaptor for connection to computer.
Instruction manual.
2.
Sollatek Automatic Voltage Switcher AVS13 fitted 13 amp fused plug.
3.
10 metre 4 gang 13 amp extension cable fitted 13 amp fused plug.
4.
3 pin to 2 pin mains adapter.
5.
Fax machine suitably configured for use with mini-M. Includes box fax paper.
6.
Telephone/Fax lead suitable for connection to mini-M unit.
Please note: - This kit can be ordered with or without fax machine, whenever possible email data transmission mode should be used. If required the fax must be requested
otherwise it will NOT be included in the kit.
Page H2
The Oxfam Kits
OXFAM CODE KVHB -VHF BASE STATION
Base or mobile radio kit for voice links to other VHF radios for installation in an office,
house or vehicle.
Kit Contents:
11. Icom IC1010, 25 watt programmable mobile VHF transceiver. Complete with
fist microphone and clip, SP5 external loudspeaker, vehicle mounting bracket
with fixing screws and terminated fused power leads for 12 volt operation.
Frequency range, 148 to 174 Mhz: 12.5KHz spacing: CTCSS tone capability.
Channels programmed as follows:
CH1 167.500 MHz: CH2 167.750 MHz:
CH3 168.000 MHz: CH4 168.250 MHz.
12. Kathrein No.215465 VHF base antenna, with 2" OD mast mounting clamp.
13. Thirty Metres UR67 coaxial cable terminated with PL259 and N type plugs. .
14. Twenty plastic cable ties, 15Omm long.
15. Gutter clip for vehicle antenna c/w Alien key.
16. Quarter wave vehicle antenna for mounting on gutter clip c/w 4 metre
length coaxial cable, terminated PL259 plug.
17. Five metres single core 4mm earth wire.
18. One copper earth rod and clamp.
19. Two spare fuses for power cable.
20. Copy of lcom Programming manual, software and all connecting leads.
Page H3
The Oxfam Kits
OXFAM KVHW-VHF PORTABLE TRANSCEIVER KIT
Portable kit with 4 walkie-talkie units and a range of accessories.
Kit Contents:
1.
Four Icom IC-F3S 146-174 MHz 32 channel Portable VHF Transceiver with
antenna, BP196 9.6V/1050mAh battery pack and belt clip.
Channels programmed as follows: Ch1 167.500 MHz : CH2 167.7500 MHz
Ch3 168.000 MHz: CH4 168.2500 MHz
2.
Four IC-BP196 Spare rechargeable battery.
3.
Four BC-119 2 hour rapid battery chargers for 12 volt DC with BC-06-2 AC
adaptors fitted 3 pin 13 amp plugs.
4.
Two IC-CP1 12V Cigar lighter leads for powering BC-119 from vehicle battery.
5.
Two Gutter clips for extension antenna c/w Allen key.
6.
Two 1/4 wave antennas c/w 4 metre coaxial cable and BNC plug
7.
Two IC-F3S-BNC antenna adaptor, (use with item 6).
8.
One PC programming including software on 3.5" disk, manual, and
programming lead PC to F3S. (OPC478) and F3S-F3S clone lead (OPC474)
9.
One 4 gang, 3-pin adapter fitted with 3 pin plug.
10. One Sollatek AVS 13 fitted with 3 pin plug.
11. One Universal 3-pin to 2-pin adapter plug.
12. One Posidrive screwdriver for F30LT programming.
Page H4
The Oxfam Kits
OXFAM CODE KHB – HF BASE STATION
An HF unit for base station installation, for in-country voice link to other HF radios.
Kit Contents:
One CODAN NGT Base Station Package. Part number 02-10228
Comprising:
desk consol, handset, RF unit, junction box, C411 series antenna, cables and
manual
Featuring:
- innovative hand set user interface
- 15 channels, 1.6-30MHz
- 125 watts (PEP), 12V.DC, USB/LSB/AM
- in-built Easitalk speech processing
- emergency call
- selective call
- phone call (optional)
- scanning
- handset programming
- remote diagnostics
- Morse call capability
- meets MIL-STD 810E for shock and vibration
OXFAM CODE KHM – HF MOBILE STATION
An HF unit for installation within a vehicle, for in-country voice link to other HF radios.
Kit Contents:
One CODAN NGT Mobile Package. Part number 02-10231
Comprising:
handset, RF unit, junction box, 9350 antenna cables, mounting accessories and
manuals.
Featuring:
- innovative hand set user interface
- 15 channels, 1.6-30MHz
- 125 watts (PEP), 12V.DC, USB/LSB/AM
- in-built Easitalk speech processing
- emergency call
- selective call
- phone call (optional)
- scanning
- handset programming
- remote diagnostics
- Morse call capability
- meets MIL-STD 810E for shock and vibration
Page H5
The Oxfam Kits
OXFAM CODE KHD- HF DATA KIT
An add-on Modem kit. When combined with the KHB HF base station kit, personal
computer and e-mail software, data can be transmitted between radios.
Kit Contents:
1.
CODAN 3012 supplied with all interconnecting leads, User manuals and Codan
9102 communications software for PC control of modem.
Features include;
2400 BPS, error free data transmission binary and text file transfer data
scrambled for security.
OXFAM CODE KSP - SOLAR POWER KIT
Kit contents:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Solar panel, 12 volt, 60-watt peak.
One Charge regulator.
One 12 volt 100 Amp battery. Gel filled deep cycling.
One 12 volt DC to 220 volt AC inverter 400 watt capacity, 12/1400.
One 5-metre extension cable with 4 x 13 amp sockets.
One Set of connection leads.
OXFAM CODE KP - POWER SUPPLY KIT
Kit Contents:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Codan 9114 power supply. Input 110-120/220-24O volt AC.13.8-volt l6 amp DC
output. Fitted 13Amp plug.
One 12 volt 100 Amp Battery. Gel filled deep cycling - Non-Hazardous.
One Codan 702 float charge cable kit.
One Sollatek Automatic Voltage Sensor AVS13. Fitted 13 amp fused plug.
Two Four-way 13 amp extension sockets with 5-metre cable fitted 13 amp
plugs.
Two 13-amp 3 pin to 2 pin adapters.
OXFAM CODE KG - GENERATOR KIT
Kit Contents:
1. ATALANTA FURY 50-1, 5KVa continuous diesel generating set incorporating a
Lister Petter AD1 4 stroke air-cooled diesel engine, operating at 3000 rpm and close
coupled to brushless AC alternator. 240 volts Single phase 50 Hz output. Power
Factor 0.8
Complete with control box containing 2 units 13 amp plug and sockets and all necessary
wiring and fuses. Complete unit mounted within a steel crash frame on a two-wheel
trolley.
2000-hours running spares will be supplied and packed with the above unit.
Page H6
The Oxfam Kits
OXFAM CODE KM - LIGHTWEIGHT MAST KIT
A standard 35-foot telescopic mast kit. Suitable for either HF or VHF base station use.
Kit Contents
1.
One 35 foot telescopic mast in seven sections, type MSM-35 complete with:
Guys/ground stays. Base plate. Spring loaded locking pins
OXFAM CODE KT
A standard tool kit for use with installation of communications equipment, and minor
repairs.
Kit contents:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
One Screwdrivers, 7 piece set
Parallel - 2.5 x 85, 4.0 x 100, 5.5 x 125, 6.5 x 150mm
Cross-Point - 0 x 75, 1 x 100, 2 x 200mm
Supplied in clear plastic wallet.
One
Watchmakers Tool Set, 11-piece set
Parallel - 1.0, 1.2, 1.4, 1.8, 2.4, 3.0mm
Cross-point - PH0-2, PH0, PH1
Fine point awl and tweezers
Supplied in plastic case.
One
Mains Tester Screwdriver
100mm 150/250volts AC
One
Hexagon Key Set 9 piece metric
1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 & 10mm
One
Pliers Set 3 Pieces
Combination Pliers 160mm (6.25in)
Snipe Nose Pliers 160mm (6.25in)
Diagonal Cutters
160mm (6.25in)
One
Crimping Pliers (no Terminals)
One
Engineers Ball Pein Hammer 1/2lb
One
Retractable Trimming Knife with 5 Spare Blades
One
Flat Cold Chisel 18mm x 200mm
One
Junior Hacksaw
One
Grip Wrench 255mm (10in) Mole Grip
One
Combination Spanner 8mm x 120mm
One
Combination Spanner 10mm x 150mm
One
Combination Spanner 12mm x 160mm
One
Combination Spanner 13mm x 170mm
One
Combination Spanner 17mm x 261mm
One
Combination Spanner 24mm x 280mm
One
Black PVC Insulating Tape 19mm
One
Black PVC Insulating Tape 25mm
One
Digital Multi-meter with 9volt battery.
One
Weller 240volt 25watt Soldering Iron fitted 5 amp Fused Plug
One
Tube Resin Cored Solder 60/40 1.0mm
Continued Overleaf
Page H7
The Oxfam Kits
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
One
Two
Fifty
Fifty
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
One
Ten
One
One
Two
One
One
One
One
One
One
Ten
Extension Cable Reel 10 meter 5amp 1200watt capacity
13amp 3 pin Black Rubber Plugs
Cable Ties 4.8mm x 200mm
Cable Ties 7.6mm x 370mm
Box assorted Nuts and Bolts
Box Pozidriv Wood Screws
Box Assorted Wall Plugs
Tool box 430 x 2o5 x 205mm
40mm Standard Brass Padlock with keys.
Masonry Drill Set 7 piece Metric Nos. 4,5,5.5,6,6.5,8 and 10mm
Masonry Drill no.24. 13mm x 400mm 10mm Reduced Shank
HSS Drill Set 19 piece Metric 1.00mm to 10mm x 0.5mm incl.
HSS Hole Saw 17mm
K1 Arbor for above Hole Saw
Junior hacksaw Blades 150mm
Engineers File 203mm Flat second Cut
Engineers File 203mm Round Second Cut
Standard Wooden File Handles
Hammer Action Drill 240volt AC 13mm Chuck
Reel Amalgamating Tape
Tube 100g Silicone Grease
12 way 06amp PVC Terminal Block
12 way 10amp PVC Terminal Block
12 way 30amp PVC Terminal Block
13amp Fuses for Plugs
END.
Page H8