jotron TR-710 - User Manual

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Overview

Function Description
Rear Connections
Usage Features
Maintenance Features
Connectors and Cables
Display and Front Panel
Storage and Safe Handling

The Jotron TR-710 is a multi-use radio transceiver designed for airband communication within the 118-137 MHz range. It offers selectable channel spacing of 8.33 KHz, 12.5 KHz, or 25 KHz, adhering to ICAO recommendations and ETSI EN 300676 standards. The transceiver is available in three main versions: Mobile Radio (TR-710 M), Man-pack Radio (TR-710 MP), and Marine Desktop Radio (TR-710 MD), each supplied with different accessories to suit its intended use.

Function Description

The TR-710 features a user-friendly interface with a self-explanatory graphical LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) that provides information on frequency, menu settings, choices, and status. The LCD is backlit for visibility in dark conditions.

Power ON/OFF: The device is turned on and off by pressing the power button for more than one second to prevent accidental operation.

Control Wheel: A versatile control wheel on the right side of the display serves multiple functions:

Volume Control: Adjusts the audio output level. When operated in standard mode, the display shows a graphical volume indication.
Squelch Control: Manages the squelch function, which mutes background noise when no signal is present. A push on the menu wheel activates the squelch function.
Menu Navigation and Value Adjustment: Used for moving through menus and adjusting selected values up and down.

Function Keys: These keys facilitate navigation through menus and adjustment of selected values. Pressing the "ENTR" function key enters the selected menu and stores new values or settings. The "CANCEL" function key allows users to escape or return to a higher menu level.

Standard Screen: This is the default operating mode, displaying the current frequency and channel information. The display automatically reverts to the standard screen after a period of inactivity (more than two seconds for volume/squelch, more than 30 seconds for menu navigation).

Rear Connections:

Antenna Connector: A TNC-connector for antenna input/output.
Power-supply Connector: Connects to an external DC supply (11-15V).
Multifunction Connector: Provides additional functionalities, with details available in the technical handbook.

Usage Features

The TR-710 offers a range of features accessible through its menu system, designed to enhance operational flexibility and control.

PREV - Fast Selection of Channels: Allows quick switching between the current and previously selected channel by pressing the "PREV" function key.

BITE – Built-In Test Equipment: This menu displays various operational parameters of the transceiver, such as PA temperature, forward power, reflected power, battery voltage, and current levels. It also indicates if any parameter exceeds acceptable limits by displaying an alarm.

CH - Selection of Channels: Users can select from up to 63 preset channels.

MENU – Main Menu: Provides access to three main sub-menus:

Rx Menu (Receiver Menu):
- NOISE BLANK: When activated, this function detects and blanks out radar and pulse noise, improving reception clarity.
- AUDIO AGC (Automatic Gain Control): When ON, the audio amplifier automatically adjusts its gain to maintain a constant audio level for received signals.
- OPEN SQ (Open Squelch): Equivalent to setting the squelch level to zero, keeping the squelch open. This can also be activated by pressing the "OPEN" function key displayed when the squelch menu is active.
Tx Menu (Transmitter Menu):
- MODULATION: Allows adjustment of the transmitter's modulation factor within a range of 10% to 100%.
- AGC (Automatic Gain Control): When ON, this function keeps the output level constant during transmission.
- AGC MODE: Adjusts the time constant of the AGC function, offering SLOW or FAST options.
- MUTE: When ON, the transmitter mutes low audio signals.
- INPUT: Selects between microphone input ("MIC") or line input ("LINE"). Line input is used for remote operation.
- TX POWER: Adjusts the transmitter's output power from 1 to 10 watts (40W PEP), with steps of 10%, 25%, 50%, 80%, and 100%.
- TIME OUT: Sets the maximum continuous keying time for the transmitter, ranging from 0.5 to 5 minutes in 30-second steps. This function can also be turned off.
General Menu:
- LCD CONTRAST: Adjusts the contrast of the display (19% to 62%).
- LCD LIGHT: Adjusts the intensity of the display backlight (OFF, 1, 2, 3).
- PANEL LIGHT: Toggles the keyboard backlight ON or OFF.
- FREQUENCY: Allows changing the operating frequency within the 118.000 MHz to 136.975 MHz range, with steps of 25 kHz, 8.33 kHz, or 12.5 kHz (optional).
- STORE CHANNEL: Saves the current frequency to a selected channel.
- DELETE CHANNEL: Deletes the frequency stored on a selected channel.
- 25kHz STEP: Toggles 25kHz step ON or OFF for frequency adjustment.
- AF OUT: Selects the audio output destination: internal Loudspeaker (LS), Headphone (HP), or External loudspeaker (EXT). If the microphone has an internal loudspeaker, selecting HP can activate it.
- TX SIDETONE: When ON, the operator can hear their own voice in the headphone during transmission. This function should be set to OFF if the microphone has an internal loudspeaker to prevent feedback.
- ACKNOW. BEEP: Sets the length/intensity of the beep sound when function keys are operated (OFF, SHORT, NORM, LONG).
- MANPACK MODE: Configures parameters specific to Man-pack operation, including forward power (25% / 2.5W), displays a battery symbol, and automatically turns off the radio if battery voltage drops below 10.3 Volt.
- Default: Restores all settings, except frequencies and channels, to their default values.

Maintenance Features

The manual highlights several precautions and warnings related to the device's battery and general handling, which can be considered maintenance-related.

Batteries: The TR-710 uses rechargeable NiMH batteries (12V/4500mAh).

Charging: Always switch the TR-710 "OFF" when charging and disconnect the charger before switching it "ON." Charge the battery to full capacity, avoiding temperatures below 0°C or above 40°C.
Storage: Be aware that rechargeable batteries lose charge over time, with the rate dependent on temperature.
Deep Discharge Recovery: If a battery is fully discharged or stored for a long time, the charger might terminate prematurely. In such cases, a specific procedure is recommended: switch off the TR-710, connect the charger for a few minutes, disconnect, switch on the TR-710, press PTT a few times, then switch off and reconnect the charger.
Safety: Never short-circuit, solder, reverse charge, crush, disassemble, or incinerate the battery to prevent fire, explosion, or burn hazards.

Connectors and Cables:

Handling: Avoid forcing plugs into connectors to prevent damage to pins.
Removal: When disconnecting cables, grip the connector firmly instead of pulling the cable.

Display and Front Panel:

Care: Avoid touching the display with sharp objects, as scratches can reduce visibility.

Storage and Safe Handling:

Operating Temperature: The device is designed to operate within -20°C to +55°C.
Cleaning: The equipment can be cleaned with a cloth soaked in a mixture of ordinary dish detergent and water.
Heat: Be aware that the cooling rib can become very hot during intensive use of the radio.

jotron TR-710 Specifications

General

Frequency	VHF
Storage Temperature	-30°C to +70°C
Activation	Manual
Channel Spacing	25 kHz
Modulation	16K0G3E
Battery Type	Lithium
Waterproof	IPX7
Category	Marine VHF Radio