Becker europa TR - User Manual

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The Becker Europa TR is a sophisticated car radio, designed for both 12V and 24V operation, with a focus on providing a comprehensive audio experience. This service manual details its operational features, technical specifications, and maintenance procedures.

Function Description

The Europa TR is a multi-band receiver, capable of tuning into Long Wave (LW), Medium Wave (MW), Shortwave (SW), and FM frequencies. It features a mechanical tuning system with pushbuttons for station selection and a variable capacitor for continuous tuning. The radio incorporates a 2-stage fade control, allowing for sound distribution across two speakers.

A key feature is its voltage switching capability, which allows the device to operate seamlessly in both 12V and 24V vehicle electrical systems. This is achieved through a polarity switching plug and a dedicated LF part for 24V operation. The radio also includes provisions for connecting external audio sources, such as a record player or tape recorder, via a shortwave adapter or an automatic antenna.

The internal architecture comprises distinct RF-IF and NF (audio frequency) sections, each with its own set of components and adjustment points. The RF-IF section handles the reception and intermediate frequency processing, while the NF section amplifies the audio signal for output. The device utilizes a mix of transistors and diodes for its electronic functions, ensuring stable and reliable performance across its operating range.

Important Technical Specifications

Wavebands and Frequencies:

LMK FM:
- LW: 145-400 kHz (3 variable circles, 5 solid circles)
- MW: 520-1630 kHz (3 variable circles, 5, 7 solid circles)
- SW: 5.9-6.25 MHz (1 variable circle, 11 solid circles)
- FM: 87-108 MHz (2 variable circles)
Intermediate Frequency: AM 460 kHz, FM 10.7 MHz
Shrinkage Control: Effective over 2 steps 7 V / 0.1 A
Scales Lamp Assembly: Receiver 2x, NF-part 1x 125
Transistors: 106 4x AF AF, 1x VST AC AC, 138, 126 1x 126 AC, 148 1x AD St 1
Diodes: 4x3x AA112, AA119 (to stabilize internal voltages), 1x2x1x10 St 1x, 100 BZ
Quiescent Current: 0.3 A for 6 volts (operating), 0.29 A for 12 volt (operation)
Talk Performance: >= 5 W at k total = 10%
Dimensions:
- Receiver part: Width 180 mm, Height 52 mm, Depth 150 mm
- NF-part: Width 180 mm, Height 53 mm, Depth 150 mm
Weight: 2.7 kg
Operating Voltage: Switchable to request connection for car turntable or tape recorder (for recording and playback) to 6 V or 12 V plus or minus to ground.
Output Power: 6/12 volt switchable about 1 watts at 7 volts about 2 watts at 14 volts 200 Ω.
Input Impedance Ratio of the Transformer: Dimensions: 1:15 62 x 49 x 260 Ω 332 Z 7500 (Beyer M 41 BS) microphone cable to Vorsetzer (according to DIN 41524).

Usage Features

The Europa TR offers intuitive controls for tuning and operation. The front panel features a manual tuning knob and several pushbuttons for pre-setting stations. The pushbuttons have a dual function: pressing them selects a pre-set station, and pulling them out allows for manual tuning to a new frequency, which can then be stored by pushing the button back in. This mechanism ensures quick access to favorite stations while retaining the flexibility of manual tuning.

The radio's design includes a mechanical clutch system that facilitates smooth operation of the tuning mechanism. This system, detailed in the mechanical design and function section, ensures precise tuning and durability. The voltage switching capability is a significant user advantage, allowing the radio to be installed in a wide range of vehicles without requiring external converters.

For enhanced audio experience, the radio supports two speakers, with a fade control to adjust the balance. The option to connect external devices like record players or tape recorders expands the entertainment possibilities, making the Europa TR a versatile in-car audio system for its time.

Maintenance Features

The service manual provides comprehensive instructions for maintenance and adjustment. Key maintenance areas include:

Mechanical Adjustment and Repair: Detailed steps for adjusting the clutch system, setting the shift rods, and ensuring smooth operation of the pushbuttons. This includes instructions for removing and re-installing the clutch, adjusting the locking screw, and lubricating moving parts.
Electrical Function Description: In-depth explanations of the AM and FM bands, LF section, and voltage switching. This knowledge is crucial for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults.
General Calibration Instructions: Procedures for calibrating the radio's various sections, including the AM and FM oscillator circuits, IF balance, and NF output. These adjustments ensure optimal performance and sound quality.
Component Replacement: Parts lists are provided for electrical and mechanical components, aiding in the identification and replacement of faulty parts. Circuit diagrams for the FM, RF-IF, and NF plates are included, along with component layouts, to facilitate troubleshooting.
Conversion Process: Instructions for connecting a record player or tape recorder, including details on the necessary modifications and wiring.
Specific Adjustments: Detailed steps for adjusting the variometer cores, setting the shift rods, and fine-tuning the potentiometers for optimal audio output and reception across all bands.

The manual emphasizes the importance of precise adjustments, such as setting the scale pointer and ensuring correct voltage levels at various test points. It also includes warnings about potential issues, like the need for additional change-over for the housing-free guidance of the "inner minus" or the "internal ground" when operating the device with a battery vehicle.

Overall, the Becker Europa TR is a robust and feature-rich car radio, designed for longevity and user-friendliness, with comprehensive documentation to support its maintenance and repair.